| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08506034B2 |
Printing apparatus
Provided is a printing apparatus for printing an image on a medium, which is transported in a transport direction, by forming dots by ejecting ink from a plurality of nozzles while moving the nozzles in an intersecting direction that intersects the transport direction. The printing apparatus has a first printing mode for printing a mirror image of a predetermined image as the image on the medium and a second printing mode for printing a positive image of a predetermined image as the image on the medium, the medium being a transparent medium. The first printing mode is different from the second printing mode in at least one of a transportation operation of transporting the medium and a dot-forming operation of forming the dots by ejecting ink while moving the nozzles. |
| US08506030B2 |
Element substrate, printhead, and head cartridge
This invention provides an element substrate having a heater selection circuit normally operable even in the use of voltage conversion circuits, which are arranged along the nozzle arrayed direction, each having a small-area in order to reduce the area of the element substrate. The element substrate according to this invention includes a heater selection circuit, which receives a signal output from a voltage conversion circuit, a block selection signal, and a print data signal, and generates and outputs a signal for performing switching by a switching element. |
| US08506029B2 |
Liquid droplet circulation control apparatus, liquid droplet ejection apparatus, and computer readable storage medium
There is provided a liquid droplet circulation control apparatus including: a first circulation controller that sets a first circulation mode in which liquid is circulated with pressure control by driving a supply side pressure generator and a return side pressure generator, the supply side pressure generator supplying the liquid to the liquid droplet ejector and the return side pressure generator returning the liquid from the liquid droplet ejector; a second circulation controller that sets a second circulation mode in which the liquid is circulated by driving the supply side pressure generator and/or the return side pressure generator, such that the liquid is made to bypass at least the liquid droplet ejector; a selector that selects one or other circulation modes; and a setting unit that sets a circulation path of the liquid based on the selected circulation mode. |
| US08506025B2 |
Supporter and pedestal and washing/drying machine having the same
A washing/drying machine is mounted to a pedestal via supporters. The pedestal includes a housing having a specific space therein, the plurality of supporters mounted at the housing and supporting an object placed on the housing and connection parts connecting the supporters mounted at one side of the housing to each other. The supporters are provided with coupling ribs for fixing the object at the housing. As the pedestal is mounted at the washing/drying machine, it is capable of preventing surfaces of the washing/drying machine and the pedestal from being damaged and of preventing water or other foreign materials from penetrating through a gap between the washing/drying machine and the pedestal by the connection parts mounted between the washing/drying machine and the pedestal. |
| US08506016B2 |
Vehicle seat
A support member has a sheet-shaped body that expands and contracts and that supports a cushion, and a frame-shaped body that fixes the sheet-shaped body in a tensioned state. The sheet-shaped body is attached to a frame member by the frame-shaped body being engaged with the frame member. The frame-shaped body is rigid and maintains a shape that follows an outer shape of the frame member when an occupant is seated, and has a first portion where an end portion of the sheet-shaped body is fixed, and a second portion where the end portion of the sheet-shaped body is not fixed. The second portion is formed at a position that corresponds to a position where a load of the occupant concentrates when the occupant is seated. |
| US08506012B2 |
Center-foldable seat back, seat with the same, and method of manufacturing center-foldable seat back
A center-foldable seat back has a seat back upper part that can be tilted forward relative to a seat back lower part. A trim cover is provided, sewn along the entire periphery at the mutual contact position of an upper and lower cover, the pulled-in state is modulated by cloth pieces, thereby preventing wrinkles. The seat back is provided with the trim cover in which one cloth piece one side edge of which is sewn to the ends of the lower and upper cover is provided at least in the central portion on the inside of the trim cover, the cloth piece is extended inward, the other side edge thereof is sewn to a fastener, the central portion on the back side is extended inward and sewn to the fastener, and the central portion on the inside of the trim cover is sewn to open and close by one fastener. |
| US08506008B2 |
Foldable seat structure
A foldable seat structure includes a front foot part and a horizontal pole of a height across the front foot part engaged with a rear foot part. A first forward extending part and a second forward extending part are mounted on a horizontal pole of the rear foot part, to be jointed with a corresponding holding part of the front foot part. A screw is used to restrict the joint position. The front foot part is further jointed to a back frame with a back pad and a chair cushion on a front of the rear foot part. The screw of the holding part and the first and second forward extending parts can be unlocked to facilitate the rear foot part to be cross-folding with the front foot part to greatly reduce size for the package to be sold. |
| US08506002B2 |
Intuitive control system for power assisted vehicle doors
A heavy vehicle door or ramp is opened and closed using an intuitive control system. The door includes a latch assembly, a lock assembly, and a power unit to assist in opening and closing the door. The door includes an interior joy stick handle and an exterior lever handle. From outside the vehicle, the door is opened and closed by pivoting the lever handle downwardly and upwardly, respectively. From the interior of the vehicle, the joy stick handle is pulled inwardly to close the door and pushed outwardly to open the door. Pivoting the joystick handle forwardly engages the blast locks, while pivoting the joystick handle rearwardly unlatches the latch assembly and disengages the blast locks. The power assist unit is actuated by pivotal movement of the outside door handle and lateral pivotal movement of the interior joystick handle. |
| US08506001B2 |
Coated article including low-E coating with improved durability and/or methods of making same
This application relates to a coated article including at least one infrared (IR) reflecting layer of a material such as silver or the like in a low-E coating. In certain embodiments, at least one layer of the coating is of or includes zirconium oxide (e.g., ZrO2) or zirconium silicon oxynitride (e.g., ZrSiOxNy). When a layer comprising zirconium oxide or zirconium silicon oxynitride is provided as the uppermost or overcoat layer of the coated article (e.g., over a silicon nitride based layer), this results in improved chemical and heat stability in certain example embodiments. Coated articles herein may be used in the context of insulating glass (IG) window units, vehicle windows, or in other suitable applications such as monolithic window applications, laminated windows, and/or the like. |
| US08505998B1 |
Truck bed liner with integrated storage system
A system is provided for storing items in the bed of a pickup truck. The system includes a bed liner, storage bin sides, storage bin tops, and storage bin dividers. The storage bin sides and storage bin tops are attached to the bed liner to create storage bins, and the bin dividers attach to both the storage bin sides and bed liner to divide the storage bins into smaller sections. Storage bin tops may include a center section cover to selectively cover the center section in between the storage bins in order to provide the full bed area above the storage bins for transporting construction material. |
| US08505988B2 |
Apparatus for securing cupboards and drawers during an earthquake or other seismic events and for child-safety
There is an apparatus for securing the cover for cabinet, cupboard or drawer during movement from an earthquake with a housing with a pivoting latch arm, which freely rotates around an axle, from a first upright position to a second prone or locked position; the pivoting latch arm engages a receiving piece in the second prone position. This device also serves a child safety device. |
| US08505984B2 |
Connection assembly for tubular goods
A mating connection assembly of the present invention permits quick and efficient connecting and disconnecting of tubular goods. A female box-end connection member has an inner body defining sockets; ball bearings held within such sockets with an outer sleeve. A male pin-end connection member is inserted within the box end connection. By moving the outer sleeve axially, the ball bearings are urged inward toward the male pin-end connection, creating a frictional locking relationship between the female box-end connection member and male pin-end connection member. |
| US08505982B2 |
Connection device for use with a corrugated tube
In a connection apparatus for a corrugated tube a sealing sleeve, a coupling part, and an insertion part that can be inserted into the coupling part and comprises outwardly protruding latching portions on its outside surface, the coupling part is provided on an outside surface with cooperating latching portions. The coupling part comprises an inner holding device through which the corrugated tube can be guided in the direction towards the insertion part and performs elastically resilient radial movements thereby securing the corrugated tube against withdrawal. The corrugated tube extends into the sealing sleeve sitting in the interior of the insertion part having an axial flow passage, and with the holding device protruding axially into the opening of the insertion part in a coupled state. The outwardly protruding latching portions exposed on the outside of the connection apparatus when in the coupled state. The holding device compressing the sealing sleeve when in the coupled state. |
| US08505978B1 |
Systems and methods for creating and providing shape-customized, computer-based, value-bearing items
Various embodiments of the present invention would provide shape-customized, value-bearing item labels, such as, for example, shape-customized, postage-indicia-bearing labels and would further provide systems and methods for creating and providing shape-customized, value-bearing item labels, such as, for example, shape-customized, image-customized, postage-indicia-bearing labels. Various embodiments of the present invention would provide shape-customized labels adapted for receiving value-bearing item indicia, such as, for example, postage indicia and would provide systems and methods for creating and providing shape-customized labels, such as, for example, shape-customized, image-customized labels, adapted for receiving value-bearing item indicia, such as, for example, postage indicia. |
| US08505977B2 |
Book having sleeve protected pages and binding method thereof
A book of sleeve protected pages bound together to form a sleeve bundle cradled inside a receiving channel formed by a hardcover spine and longitudinal flanges extending from the spine and a method of binding thereof. |
| US08505976B2 |
Tank support assembly for a crop sprayer
A crop sprayer comprises a main frame including a first elongated frame rail and a second elongated frame rail that are spaced apart from each other. A first elongated tank support is secured in fixed relation to the first elongated frame rail and includes a first elongated convex support surface. A second elongated tank support is secured in fixed relation to second elongated frame rail and includes a second elongated convex support surface. The second elongated tank support is spaced apart from the first elongated tank support to define a sump space therebetween. The crop sprayer includes a product tank defining a first cavity that is configured to contain a first quantity of fluid therein. The product tank includes i) a first elongated concave support surface, and ii) a second elongated concave support surface. The first elongated convex support surface is positioned in mating contact with the first elongated concave support surface. The second elongated convex support surface is positioned in mating contact with the second elongated concave support surface. The first elongated concave support surface and second elongated concave support surface define a product sump portion of the product tank. The product sump portion is at least partially positioned in the sump space. |
| US08505973B2 |
Forward mount
A forward mount is disclosed which is secured to the frame of an off-road vehicle to enable the rearward ends of a push-tube assembly to be secured thereto. The forward mount of this invention may be attached to the main frame of off-road vehicles of different manufacturers in various ways. |
| US08505971B2 |
Knee bolster for vehicle
A present invention provides a knee bolster for a vehicle including a first bracket with a first support portion, a first load receiving portion, and a first deformation portion, and a second bracket with a second support portion, a second load receiving portion, and a second deformation portion, wherein the second bracket is arranged such that the distance between the second load receiving portion and the knee is shorter than the distance between the first load receiving portion and the knee in the load application direction. |
| US08505968B2 |
Vehicle seat having an airbag module
A vehicle seat having an airbag module with an inflatable airbag cushion; a single or multi-part cover configured to cover the airbag module and an upholstered member, wherein an opening line for the airbag cushion is provided in the cover; and a reinforcing insert disposed between the cover and the airbag module for orientation of the airbag cushion when the latter inflates. In a non-triggered state of the airbag module, the reinforcing insert is folded into a multi-layer folded region that extends substantially orthogonally relative to the opening line. Upon an opening of the airbag cushion at the opening line, vertical force components can be formed in the region of the multi-layer folded region. |
| US08505967B2 |
Head protection airbag device for vehicle
At a time of deployment of an airbag, a rear portion of the airbag and a tension imparting member are prevented from hooking on an upper end of a quarter pillar garnish and impeding deployment of the airbag. An airbag (20) is contained along a door opening (46). An upper expansion portion (20D) is formed on an upper edge side of a rear seat expansion portion (20B), and a rear expansion portion (20E) is formed at a rear end side upper portion. The upper expansion portion is expanded and deployed at the compartment outer side of a terminal part (34A). A rear end side attachment portion (20E) is set at the rear end side of the rear expansion portion (20E), and the rear expansion portion expands inside a quarter pillar garnish (48). A rear end lower portion of the rear seat expansion portion is coupled to the vehicle body by a rear side strap (68). A border portion (72) between a roof head lining (34) and the pillar garnish is specified such that a deployment area (Q) of the upper expansion portion falls within a range where the roof head lining is arranged. |
| US08505965B2 |
Vehicle occupant safety system with energy-absorbing elements, and method of operating same
A vehicle occupant restraint system has an airbag, which provides a predetermined support force distribution in the filled (unfolded) state, and at least one energy-absorbing element that is attached to the airbag in order to unfold it or to locally increase the support force thereof. The energy-absorbing element(s) are arranged such that at least one energy absorbing element may apply itself to an occupant, and may at least partially follow the movements of the same at least to a certain extent. The energy-absorbing element has an occupant-protective function, and/or the airbag has a funnel function relative to an occupant to be supported. The occupant is guided toward the center of the airbag during an impact by means of the funnel function, and is possibly also protected laterally by means of the side walls. |
| US08505963B1 |
Airbag assemblies with strap clamps
Inflatable airbag assemblies having a strap and clamp system to securely hold an inflator relative to a housing. The strap may be attached to an airbag cushion to restrict the movement of the strap or strap may not be attached to the airbag cushion and may move freely while positioned within openings in the housing. |
| US08505962B2 |
Fixing clamp and airbag unit
A fixing clamp for fixing an airbag on a gas generator includes a first support portion adapted to the outer shape of the gas generator and a second wrapping portion extending from the support portion. The wrapping portion with its free end can be connected to the support portion. The wrapping portion is designed to be extensible. |
| US08505955B2 |
Coupling device and method
A coupling device is provided including a first coupling member or portion and second coupling member or portion where the second coupling member is configured to releasably engage the first coupling member. The second coupling member includes a locking sleeve or locking sleeve assembly slideably mounted on a cup body with the sleeve capable of being shifted toward an opening of the cup body to an unlocked position that permits insertion of the first coupling member into the second coupling member. The sleeve has an inner surface that covers and protects a fastening element positioned within bores of the cup body in both the locked and unlocked positions thereof. In one form, the locking sleeve assembly includes a locking device which restricts the sleeve from inadvertently shifting toward the unlocked position. |
| US08505954B1 |
Rotative anti-theft bar lock for tractor trailers
An easy to use trailer anti-theft device that forms an integral part of said trailer comprising a front exterior wall mounted locking mechanism having a rotatable lock bar extending therefrom with the lock bar having an upper arm pivotally and swivelably connected to a lower swing bar that can be unlocked and moved from a stored position to a downwardly depending blocking position. The lock bar has a partially rotative lower swing arm that under force extends under the trailer substantially in the direction of the trailer king pin. |
| US08505953B2 |
Combination tool
A combination tool usable to couple between land vehicles or other objects is described, that is also usable to impact posts, such when constructing a fence. The combination tool can include a main body with a first end configured to impact a post, and a second end configured for coupling to a vehicle or other object. A restrainer pin detachably connected to the main body is usable to secure the combination tool to the object. The restrainer pin can also be used to engage a fence clip or similar flexible member, such as when constructing a fence. Additionally, the combination tool can include a ball hitch or similar protrusion for engagement with a tow vehicle or other object, and a platform or similar member for facilitating a user's access to the vehicles or other objects to which the combination tool is secured. |
| US08505951B2 |
Hitch mounted waste container transporter
A hitch mounted waste container transporter for mounting in a standard hitch receiver on a vehicle using a locking pin includes a hitch bar having a first end equipped for connection to the hitch receiver and having a distal end, a hitch bar bracket having a lower end rigidly connected to said distal end of the hitch bar and an upper end which includes a transverse locking pin, an intermediate bar is pivotally connected at its first end to the hitch bar bracket such that the intermediate bar moves between about 0 and 25 degrees from a common axis of the hitch bar, and a rigid container support bar connected to a second end of the intermediate bar which is about 110-115 degrees obtuse to the axis of the intermediate bar having a tine to removably engage a waste container. |
| US08505950B2 |
Tractor and trailer combination
A tractor and trailer combination including a tractor having a tractor frame, a supply unit, a trailer coupling, a skid plate, and a first connector coupled to the tractor frame and coupled to the supply unit to receive at least one of high voltage electrical power and coolant from the supply unit. The combination also includes a trailer having a trailer frame, a tractor coupling rotatably connecting the trailer to the tractor, and a second connector coupled to the trailer and configured to provide the at least one of high voltage electrical power and coolant to the trailer. The combination further includes a conduit having a first end coupled to the first connector, a second end coupled to the second connector. The conduit flexes and is supported between the first and second ends by the skid plate throughout rotation of the trailer relative to the tractor. |
| US08505949B2 |
Automatic pneumatic/electrical coupler system for tractor-trailer combination vehicles
A powered coupling system is configured to interconnect utility lines such as fluid and/or electric lines of a vehicle tractor to a trailer. A curved track is mounted to a frame of the tractor, and the system includes pneumatic and/or electrical connectors that move along the curved track to align the connectors with a corresponding connectors on a trailer. A linear actuator causes the connectors on the tractor to shift vertically to connect and disconnect the connectors on the tractor to connectors on the trailer. The curved track permits alignment of the connectors on the tractor with the connectors on the trailer even if the trailer is not in a straight line with the tractor. |
| US08505948B2 |
Boat transportation carriage
The present invention comprises an arm structure adapted for a boat transportation carriage. The boat transportation carriage may include a first frame portion and a second frame portion, with a third frame portion adapted to interconnect said two frame portions. Said arm structure may include a vertical arm portion and a horizontal arm portion, with the lower portion of the vertical arm portion being adapted indirectly to to rest against a chassis of the boat transportation carriage and its frame portion for supporting vertical loads. Between the lower portion of the horizontal arm portion and the upper portion of said chassis or frame portion and in adherement to the vertical arm portion there rests a support plate having a supporting surface for supporting cooperation with the horizontal arm portion and this supporting surface is disposed within a chosen intermediate area of said horizontal arm portion. |
| US08505946B2 |
Wheelchair device
A wheelchair comprises a hub-enclosing open ring engaging a hub disposed in a wheel rotatably, bars extending from two ends of the hub-enclosing open ring, an crescent-shaped cap member fixed to the bars above the tube portion, a power handle engaging the crescent-shaped cap member rotatably through an L-shaped end of the power handle, a wheel-holding plate fixed to the power handle with an angle and covered by the crescent-shaped cap member. The wheel-holding plate comprises a holding edge for pressing down on and holding the wheel. The hub-enclosing open ring, the bars, and the cap member are fixed to one another and configured to rotate about the hub, and the holding edge of the wheel-holding pate is configured to be pressed down on and engaged firmly to the wheel such that the wheel rotates about the hub by pushing and pulling the power handle. |
| US08505943B2 |
Cantilevered, vehicle side mount safety guard
A safety guard which functions to push objects lying in the path of a vehicle out of the path of the wheels of the vehicle, such as a school bus, for safety purposes includes a front guard positioned at an angle in front of a wheel of the vehicle and is mounted to a side panel of the vehicle such that the frontal guard is supported in a cantilevered manner in front of the wheel. This configuration provides for a substantially universal mounting arrangement that can be particular advantageous in connection with school buses and other vehicles which are not provided with underbody frame and support structure closely adjacent to the vehicle wheel. |
| US08505942B2 |
Adjustable spring assembly
A suspension device having a leaf spring and a piston-cylinder unit. The leaf spring has a first end that is movably attached to a frame and a second end pivotally attached to the piston-cylinder unit. In addition, the piston-cylinder unit is pivotally attached to the frame. |
| US08505941B2 |
Torsion beam manufacturing method and torsion beam
A method enhances fatigue strength of ear portions which are high fatigue risk parts in a torsion beam almost without bringing about disadvantages in terms of productivity and cost. A torsion beam is formed with a portion of the tubular body into an approximately U-shape in cross section by crushing the portion of the tubular body in the radial direction and, thereafter, due to bending with a bottom line set as a belly side of bending, a bending strain of 2 to 6% in the tube longitudinal direction on a tensile side is imparted to the ear portions. |
| US08505940B1 |
Stabilizer bar bushing attachment assembly
A bushing attachment assembly for a vehicle stabilizer bar is provided. The mounting structure includes a bushing, a bracket assembly, and a bracket mount, which may be configured to couple the bracket assembly and bushing to a vehicle frame. The bracket assembly may include an outer pre-compression component and an inner retention component. The bushing may be disposed within a cavity formed between the outer pre-compression component and the inner retention component. The bushing may also define a central bore configured to receive a vehicle stabilizer bar. Each of the respective outer pre-compression and inner retention components may include planar tabs or other similar retention features configured to engage one another to form a compression assembly, which applies and maintains a compressive load upon the bushing. |
| US08505938B2 |
Sway bar assembly and vehicle including same
A sway bar assembly includes a sway bar, a biasing member, and a winder assembly. The sway bar includes a central portion, a left end portion, and a right end portion. The central portion is configured for pivotal coupling to a frame of a vehicle. The left end portion is configured for coupling with a left support arm. The right end portion is configured for coupling with a right support arm. The biasing member is configured to be fixed to a frame of a vehicle. The winder assembly is coupled with the biasing member and configured to facilitate selective movement of the biasing member with respect to the sway bar. |
| US08505936B2 |
Foldable walker apparatus
There is provided a wheel mounting assembly having a wheel fork. The fork includes an interior and an inwardly extending protrusion disposed within the interior. The assembly includes a rotatable member operatively connected to the fork and disposed within the interior of the fork. The protrusion abuts and positions in place the rotatable member. The assembly includes a shaft. The rotatable member rotatably connects the shaft to the wheel fork. The assembly includes a retaining member connected to the shaft. The retaining member is configured to abut the protrusion of the fork and thus inhibit dislodgement of the rotatable member from the fork when the shaft is tilted relative to the fork. |
| US08505929B2 |
Retractable and automatic positioning wheels for snowmobiles
A device allowing positioning of wheels of a snowmobile when skis leave a snowy path to continue on a road. The device comprises at least two parallel wheels positioned near each ski, a pair of cylinders placed in connection with each wheel, and controlled by a control box by a driver activating pistons to move the wheels from an upward position to a downward ground position. The upward position corresponds to wheels elevated over the ski when the piston is contracted; and the downward position corresponds to wheels in touch with the ground when the piston is extended. Means of clutch move horizontally the wheels to an external position. A spike located on an arm which supports a wheel is positioned to scratch ground ice for creating a mist when a wheel is in a scratching position. |
| US08505928B2 |
Substrate temperature control fixing apparatus
A substrate temperature control fixing apparatus comprises an electrostatic chuck which includes a base body and adsorbs and holds an adsorbing target mounted on one of surfaces of the base body, a base plate which supports the electrostatic chuck, and a bank portion provided on an outer periphery of one of surfaces of the base plate which is opposed to the other of the surfaces of the base body. |
| US08505925B2 |
Temperature adaptive dynamic shaft seal assembly
A seal assembly configured for sealing a dynamic shaft includes an elastic seal member disposable in sealing communication with the dynamic shaft. The seal assembly further includes a coil spring and a shape memory alloy element. The coil spring is disposed in contact with the elastic seal member and configured for applying a compressive force to the elastic seal member. The shape memory alloy element is configured for applying pressure to the coil spring to thereby augment the compressive force. |
| US08505921B2 |
Porta-fold target stand system
A target stand includes a target stand base and a target holder, together with a target mounted in the holder. The base has a cross member which is adjustably rotatably mounted, and the cross member has an upright member extending therefrom. The holder has a stem portion inserted into an open end of the upright portion of the base. A hand screw is used to secure the stem portion in the upright member. In this manner, the holder can be secured at any rotational angle relative to the upright member. Further, the upright member itself can be moved to any position by rotation of the cross member, which is likewise secured by a hand screw. Further, an uppermost portion of the target stand holder includes block carrying a transverse bar and allowing pivoting of the transverse bar. The transverse bar connects a pair of upright bars. |
| US08505918B1 |
Three dimensional tic-tac-toe game
A three-dimensional tic-tac-toe game including a game board having a plurality of modules adapted to be interconnected to one another, a plurality of X-shaped game pieces, and a plurality of O-shaped pieces. Each of the X-shaped game pieces and O-shaped pieces includes protrusions at one end and recesses in an opposite end. Each of the modules includes recesses. The protrusions of each of the X-shaped and O-shaped pieces are adapted to engage the recesses of the modules, as well as the recesses of other X-shaped or O-shaped pieces. The X-shaped and O-shaped pieces may be stacked on top of one another for three-dimensional game play. Alternately, the modules and the X-shaped and O-shaped pieces include magnets to engage one another. |
| US08505907B2 |
Method and apparatus for determining the position of adjustable feeder tray side guides in an image production device
A method and apparatus for determining the position of adjustable feeder tray side guides in an image production device is disclosed. The method may include detecting an amount of a continuously variable sloped shape marker, determining a position of the adjustable feeder tray side guide of a feeder tray based on the detected amount of the continuously variable sloped shape marker, and outputting the determined position of the adjustable feeder tray side guide of a feeder tray to a user interface of the image production device. |
| US08505903B2 |
Sheet folding device, image forming system, and sheet folding method
A sheet folding device that performs a folding process on a bundle of sheet members includes: a folding unit that folds the bundle of the sheet members; a pushing unit that abuts on a surface of the bundle of the sheet members so as to push the bundle of the sheet members into the folding unit; pressing plates that form a pair, that have convexly curved surfaces to face each other, and that form a crease by pressing the bundle of the sheet members therebetween; a driving unit that performs a pressing operation and a press-releasing operation of the pair of the pressing plates; a moving unit that moves a pressing position of the pair of the pressing plates interposing the bundle of the sheet members; and a control unit that controls the driving unit and the moving unit. The control unit controls a moving speed of the pressing position. |
| US08505899B2 |
Sheet folding device and sheet post-processing device using same
Sheet pressing means (59) is provided that assists the formation of a bend in a sheet (S) and that guides the bend in the sheet (S) into the nip portion between a second roller (54) and a third roller (55). The sheet pressing means (59) is formed with a cylindrical sheet member (591) and a bar-shaped member (592) that is inserted into the cylindrical sheet member (591). The top portion of the sheet member (591) is attached to a base member (593), and thus the bar-shaped member (592) is supported by the sheet member (591) such that the longitudinal direction of the bar-shaped member (592) is held substantially in a horizontal state. Thus, it is possible to perform processing for reliably folding the sheet in a predetermined position regardless of the material quality, the thickness and the like of the sheet; even if a strong force is applied to the sheet pressing means at the time of processing for handing a paper jam or the like, the sheet pressing means is unlikely to be deformed; and it is possible to stably perform the folding processing for a long period of time. |
| US08505898B2 |
Method for making a Z-fold signature
Methods for forming a signature are provided. In one aspect an automatic z-folding system is used to cause a signature print to fold across a width proximate to z-fold locations spaced along a length of the signature print and to form a z-folded stack of sheets of the signature print and the z-folded stack is bound across a width of the stack proximate to a saddle fold location between the z-folds; saddle folding the z-folded stack at the saddle fold location to dispose the z-folds along a common face of the saddle folded stack, and, separating the signature print at least one of the z-folds. |
| US08505897B2 |
Z-fold signature finishing system and printer
Z-fold signature finishing systems are provided. One z-fold finishing system has a receiver system to receive a signature print; an automatic z-fold system configured to make a z-folded stack of sheets formed from separate portions of a length of a signature print with each sheet being joined to at least one other sheet in the z-folded stack by at least one of the z-folds; a binding system that can bind the z-folded stack proximate to a saddle fold location between the z-folds; a saddle folder having at least two surfaces arranged so that the at least two surfaces and the z-folded stack can move relative to each other to cause the z-folded stack to fold proximate to the saddle fold location to dispose the z-folds along a common face of the saddle folded stack, and, a separation system separating the signature print proximate to at least one of the z-folds. |
| US08505896B2 |
Objecting positioning/fixing device
An object positioning/fixing device is capable of generating a clamping force by clamp bolts capable of being fastened manually and realizes high operability of the clamp bolts. A simple clamp mechanism comprises the clamp bolts as major components. The object positioning/fixing device has a cooperative assembly of the positioning mechanism and the clamp bolts. |
| US08505894B2 |
Machine tool
A machine tool (11) according to the present invention includes a table (49) having a pallet mount on which a pallet for a workpiece to be mounted thereon is mounted, a pallet station (17) provided on the side of the machine tool and having a pallet rest for a pallet to be placed thereon, and a pallet carrying device (19) arranged between the table (49) and a column (23). The pallet is carried between the table (49) and the pallet station (17). |
| US08505893B2 |
Means for preventing tools from being pulled out from tool holders with a tool holding fixture
The invention relates to a tool holder with a tool holding fixture, in particular a clamping chuck such as a contracting chuck, a draw-in collect chuck, a hydraulic expanding chuck and a high-precision chuck, and a shank of a tool, in particular a rotary tool, accommodated in it, wherein the tool holder contains a means for preventing the tool from being pulled out, locking it against axial displacement. This pull-out preventing unit comprises at least one locking element and at least one locking groove, which corresponds to the said locking element, receives it and interacts with it in a positively locking manner. In this case, both the locking element and the locking groove are formed at least partly in the manner of a ball head. Preferably, the tool has the locking grooves. On account of preferably spirally arranged locking grooves along the cylindrical shank of rotary tools, the direction of pitch of which grooves corresponds to the direction of the grooves of the tool, axial locking of the tool is obtained, so that the tool cannot be axially displaced from the tool holder during operation. In addition, force-exerting elements are arranged, with the effect of making the tool lie against the pull-out preventer without play after shrink-fitting. |
| US08505889B2 |
Vibration-isolating bush
An intermediate cylinder 18 is interposed between an inner cylinder 12 and an outer cylinder 14. The inner cylinder has a first bulging portion 20 of a spherical zone shape. The intermediate cylinder has a second bulging portion 22 of a spherical zone shape enclosing the first bulging portion. The inner circumference of the second bulging portion has a first spherical recess 23 corresponding to the first bulging portion. The inner circumference portion of the outer cylinder 14 enclosing the second bulging portion has a second spherical recess 25 corresponding to the second bulging portion. A rubbery elastic member 16 has an inner elastic portion 26 connecting the inner cylinder 12 and the intermediate cylinder 18 and an outer elastic portion 28 connecting the intermediate cylinder 18 and the outer cylinder 14. The axial size D1 of the inner elastic portion is larger than the axial size D2 of the outer elastic portion. |
| US08505888B2 |
Tubular torsion bar
A tubular torsion bar includes an elongated inner tube of flexible material having a proximal end and a distal end and an elongated outer tube of flexible material having a proximal end and a distal end. A joiner bushing fixedly attaches the distal end of the inner tube to the distal end of the outer tube with the inner tube and outer tube positioned in coaxial and substantially coextensive concentric nesting positions. Mounting apparatus is fixedly attached to the proximal end of the outer tube and a planetary gear system is coupled to the proximal ends of the inner tube and the mounting apparatus and designed to provide a selected torque versus deflection characteristic of the tubular torsion bar. |
| US08505887B2 |
Micro cellular urethane (MCU) progressive rate bump stop/spring aid
The present invention provides an improved Micro Cellular Urethane (hereinafter ‘MCU’) bump stop/spring aid having a plurality of struts adapted to level the rate transition as sections are folded onto one another. MCU bump stops/spring aids are well known in the art to assist vehicle suspension systems. More particularly, bump stops/spring aids are frequently used with vehicle suspension systems in connection with shocks and strut assemblies. These assemblies provide a comfortable ride in addition to influencing the control and handling of the vehicle. The struts are positioned around the circumference of the MCU bump stop/spring aid. The added struts between the undercuts partially support the outer surfaces of the MCU bump stop/spring aid. Struts are generally molded between the outer surfaces. Struts may also be molded on an inner surface. The plurality of struts improves upon existing technology by improving performance characteristics. |
| US08505882B2 |
Diffuser apparatus, and diffuser apparatus running method
A diffuser apparatus which has fine pores is capable of achieving a high oxygen transfer efficiency and rarely becoming clogged so that the apparatus can be operated stably over a prolonged period. The diffuser apparatus includes: an aeration plate that is disposed in an aeration tank in order to release pressurized air, fed from a diffusing air feed pipe, as air bubbles from fine pores formed in an aeration plate surface; blow water feeder for feeding blow water into the diffusing air feed pipe; and an inserted pipe for discharging the blow water, fed into the diffusing air feed pipe, from the aeration plate. |
| US08505879B2 |
Rigid tie down
The present invention discloses a rigid tie down in the field of mechanics, which addresses the problems of the existing tie downs, for example, they occupy a large space and have a low binding efficiency. The rigid tie down comprises a body, a first hook and a second hook provided on both ends of the body, and a handle connected to the body. The body has a cylindrical shape. The first hook has a first screw thereon, and the second hook has a second screw thereon. The first screw is threadedly connected with one end of the body, and the second screw is threadedly connected with the other end of the body. The direction of the threads of the first screw is reverse to that of the second screw. The rigid tie down could be operated in a convenient manner, have a high binding efficiency and occupy a small space. |
| US08505877B2 |
Rescue device with spreading mechanism
The invention describes a rescue apparatus (1) with prising arms (4, 5) on a support housing (3) mounted in at least one pivot bearing arrangement (20) with a drive system (2) so as to be displaceable in pincer-like movement about a pivot axis (17) extending perpendicular to a longitudinal mid-axis (18) of the support housing (3). Surface regions (41) with a higher resistance to wear than the resistance to wear of adjacent regions (42) are provided on at least mutually facing internal surfaces (26, 27) of the prising arms (4, 5). |
| US08505874B2 |
Adjusting screw structure of oil immersed solenoid and oil immersed solenoid including the same
An adjusting screw structure of an oil immersed solenoid comprises a movable core provided in a first space of a main body case to be movable in an axial direction. The core is biased by an adjusting spring to be pulled by a fixed magnetic pole portion. An adjusting screw capable of adjusting biasing force of the adjusting spring is included. The adjusting screw structure includes an air-bleeding plug configured to detachably attach to and seal an opening end portion of a rear case, which communicates with the first space. The air-bleeding plug includes an internal screw portion that threadedly engages the adjustable screw. A detachable mechanism is configured to attach the air-bleeding plug to the opening end portion, locating the air-bleeding plug at a predetermined attachment position in a movement direction of the adjusting screw. Thus, air in a solenoid can be removed without causing a biasing force error. |
| US08505870B2 |
Shear blade geometry and method
A pair of shear blades and a blowout preventer having the pair of shear blades. The shear blades are configured to cut a tubular inside the blowout preventer. The shear blades have different geometries of the front cutting surfaces. One geometry promotes a secure positioning of the tubular relative to the first blade while the second geometry promotes a puncturing of the tubular by the second blade. |
| US08505866B2 |
Sensor assembly and fixing method thereof
A sensor assembly that is fixed to a fixing subject member includes a bracket that is fixed to a fixing subject member, a spacer that is attached to the bracket and contacts the fixing subject member, and a rotation sensor that is held by the bracket and is sandwiched between the spacer and the bracket. |
| US08505864B1 |
PV kit for roof assembly
An arrangement for attaching PV panels together and to a roofing clamp includes an electrical insulating provision between the attaching arrangement and the roofing clamp. |
| US08505853B2 |
Method for controlling satellite attitude, and attitude-controlled satellite
A method for controlling the attitude of a satellite in orbit around a celestial object, the satellite including an observation instrument, a solar panel, a radiator and a star sensor which are arranged on the satellite such that, in a reference frame associated with the satellite and defined by three orthogonal axes X, Y, and Z, the observation instrument has its observation axis parallel to the Z-axis, the solar panel is parallel to the Y-axis, the radiator is arranged on one of the sides −X, +Y, or −Y of the satellite, and the star sensor points to the negative X values side. The roll and pitch attitudes of the satellite are controlled during an activity period to direct the observation instrument towards areas of the celestial object to be observed, and the yaw attitude of the satellite is controlled to keep the sun on the positive X values side and ensure that a solar panel minimum insolation constraint is satisfied during observation phases of the activity period. |
| US08505852B2 |
Reversible space plane
A reversible aerospace plane includes an air intake at a first end of the aerospace plane, at least one heat exchanger disposed in the aerospace plane, and an engine at a second end of the aerospace plane, wherein the aerospace plane is configured to accelerate in a first direction and configured to glide and land in a second direction, wherein the second direction is substantially in a reverse direction from the first direction. |
| US08505850B2 |
Locking and unlocking system for the cockpit door of an aircraft and door with such a system
Embodiments relate to a locking and unlocking system of a separation door separating a cockpit from a cabin of an aircraft. In one embodiment, a system comprises a set of electrically controlled bolts configured to lock the door, a control unit configured to electrically control the set of bolts, a first manual control connected to the control unit, installed in the cockpit and configured to unlock the door, a second manual control connected to the control unit, installed in the cabin and configured to unlock the door, an accelerometer to detect a crash, and a switching relay to control automatic unlocking of the door when a crash of the aircraft is detected, the relay connected to the accelerometer, the control unit and the set of bolts. |
| US08505848B2 |
Aircraft actuator hydraulic system
A first actuator drives a control surface by being operated by supply of pressure oil from a first aircraft central hydraulic power source including a first aircraft central hydraulic pump. A second actuator drives the control surface by being operated by supply of pressure oil from a second aircraft central hydraulic power source including a second aircraft central hydraulic pump. A backup hydraulic pump is installed inside a wing of the aircraft and is provided so as to be able to supply pressure oil to the first actuator when a loss or degradation in a function of at least one of the first aircraft central hydraulic power source and the second aircraft central hydraulic power source occurs. A maximum discharge pressure of the backup hydraulic pump is set to be greater than maximum discharge pressures of the first aircraft central hydraulic pump and the second aircraft central hydraulic pump. |
| US08505847B2 |
Lighter-than-air systems, methods, and kits for obtaining aerial images
Lighter-than-air systems, methods, and kits for obtaining aerial images are described. For example, various methods for determining planned ascent, drift, and/or descent of a lighter-than-air system are described. In addition, various structural arrangements of lighter-than-air systems for accomplishing planned ascent, drift, and/or descent and obtaining aerial images are described. |
| US08505846B1 |
Vertical takeoff and landing aircraft
An aircraft has a fuselage, a lifting free wing, and a nose section. The fuselage has a front end, a rear end, and a longitudinal axis. The lifting free wing is pivotally connected to the fuselage with a pivot. The nose section is pivotally mounted on the front end of the fuselage, and includes a pair of engines, and a pair of counter-rotating propellers. A canard free wing is pivotally connected to the nose section with a pivot. A pair of vertical stabilizers are mounted on the rear end of the fuselage and each includes a rudder and a pair of landing gear. |
| US08505845B2 |
System and method for storing, rotating, and feeding a high pressure hose
A system for storing, rotating and feeding a high pressure hose. A first portion of the hose is disposable about the drum and a guide arm engages a second portion of the hose. An actuator assembly rotates a cage and the guide arm so that the guide arm rotates relative to the cage such that the hose is rotated. Relative rotation in one direction causes the first portion of the hose to uncoil from the drum and displace along the guide arm and causes a third portion of the high pressure hose in an output port to displace out of the output port away from the guide arm. Relative rotation in an opposite direction causes the second portion of the high pressure hose to coil about the drum and causes the third portion of the high pressure hose to displace into the housing. |
| US08505844B2 |
Method for operating a winding machine
Described is a method for operating a winding machine used for winding up and/or unwinding a winding material, said winding machine comprising a device for controlling and/or regulating the winding process. A variable value is monitored that concerns a machine state and/or a change in the winding material, and at least one parameter of said controlling and/or regulating device is modified in accordance with the change identified. |
| US08505842B2 |
Mixing machine for homogenising a liquid mixture containing bitumen with solid granules
A mixing machine adapted to mix a liquid mixture containing bitumen with solid granules so as to obtain a homogenized bituminous mix. The machine includes a cylindrical container arranged coaxially to a vertical axis and capable of containing the liquid mixture containing bitumen and the solid granules, a heating circuit for heating the inner side surface of the cylindrical container, a mixing assembly mounted axially rotatable within the container to rotate about the vertical axis, and a driving unit adapted to rotate the mixing assembly about the vertical axis. The mixing assembly includes a helicoidal blade which extends coaxial to the axis within the container and has its outer peripheral edge in contact with the inner surface of the container so as to scrape the material adhering on the inner surface during its rotation. |
| US08505841B2 |
Anti-jamming assembly for shredders of sheet like material
An anti-jam assembly for incorporation in an article destroying appliance includes a fixed core mount assembly including a first support member spaced apart from a second support member. At least one moveable cutter shaft is disposed between and rotatably mounted to the first and second support members. A third elongate member extends in parallel relationship to the at least one cutter shaft. This third support member is moveable from a first position to at least a second position. The first and the at least second position correspond to a variable width of a feed path directing an article toward the at least one cutter. An arm is affixed to the elongate member and pivotal at a mounting surface when the elongate member moves toward the second position. A sensor activates when it detects movement of the arm. The arm and the sensor are removed from a proximity of the at least one cutter or the feed path. |
| US08505840B2 |
Method for modifying nomal clay and a method for producing composite elastomer from the clay
A method for modifying soil and a method for producing composite Elastomer of the soil are disclosed. The method for modifying soil includes drying, pulverizing, sieving, and purifying the soil to obtain soil powder, then dynamically heating the powder and adding surfactant, which includes coupling agent, polysiloxane having reactive functional, emulsifier of organosilicon and aliphatic amine, and water, and then drying the above obtained powder to obtain modified soil. The modified soil and acrylic acid copolymer emulsion are mixed with plasticizer, foaming agent, etc. to form a composite body which is used to produce elastomer floor board, elastomer wall brick, composite soil skin material, and so on. No emission of toxic gas and evaporation of organic solvent can be attained during production and use of the invention, and performance of the product is same as or has superiority over rubber in compression deformation rate, rebound elasticity and durability. |
| US08505837B2 |
Tailgate spreader hopper fill status sensor
A spreader assembly may include a hopper, an auger mechanism, a torque sensor that provides a signal based on a condition of the auger mechanism and, a controller that receives the signal from the torque sensor and determines a fill status of the hopper based on the signal from the torque sensor. |
| US08505835B2 |
Fuel injector
The fuel injector for fuel-injection systems of combustion engines has an excitable actuator for actuating a valve-closure member, which forms a sealing seat together with a valve-seat surface. At least one spray-discharge orifice is formed downstream from the valve-seat surface from which fuel is output in the direction of a combustion chamber. In addition, the fuel injector has a nozzle body, which surrounds the valve-seat surface or accommodates a valve-seat body having the valve-seat surface. The nozzle body is introduced into a downstream thin-walled extension of a connection piece, which also serves as an inner pole of a magnetic circuit, and is fixedly connected to this extension. |
| US08505830B2 |
Water control fixture having bypass valve
A water control fixture includes a fixture body in fluid communication with a pressurized supply of hot water and a pressurized supply of cold water. The fixture body interconnects the supply of hot water and the supply of cold water. The fixture body has a spout outlet configured to dispense water from the fixture body. At least one operating valve is coupled to the fixture body for controlling a flow of water to the spout outlet. A bypass valve is disposed in the fixture body for controlling a recirculating flow of water through the fixture body. The bypass valve blocks and permits recirculating flow from the supply of hot water to the supply of cold water based on a temperature of the water. |
| US08505828B2 |
Chip card with simultaneous contact and contact-less operations
A chip card receives and processes what-ever combination of contact data and contact-less data is available to allow multiple functionalities for the chip card. A micro-computer of the chip card is adapted to simultaneously receive and process contact data from a contact interface and contact-less data from a contact-less interface. In addition, the chip card includes a power voltage selector for selecting a contact bias to supply power to the micro-computer when-ever the contact bias voltage is available since the contact bias voltage is more stable than a contact-less bias voltage. |
| US08505823B2 |
Noise removal from color barcode images
A method for noise removal from color barcode images includes acquiring a barcode image using a color imaging array and separating the barcode image into color channels. Weighting factors are associated with the color channels and at least one weighting factor is reduced. The weighting factors are applied to the color channels to produce a first transformed image. A portion of the first transformed image is analyzed to produce a first set of decoded data from the barcode. |
| US08505822B2 |
Apparatus and method comprising deformable lens element
An apparatus comprising a deformable lens element can be provided wherein a deformable lens element can be deformed to change an optical property thereof by the impartation of a force to the deformable lens element. |
| US08505820B2 |
Card reading device for transaction system
A non-magnetic card reader, a magnetic card reader and a card transaction method are provided to selectively read a magnetic card and a non-magnetic card for identification of payment transaction at a transaction terminal. The non-magnetic card reader includes an integrator module electrically connecting to the magnetic card reader and the transaction terminal. Each of the non-magnetic card reader, the magnetic card reader and the transaction terminal has one or more physical connectors compatible with a magnetic-card communication protocol. A non-magnetic card signal incorporated with card data of the non-magnetic card is converted by the integrator module to match the magnetic-card communication protocol and is selectively transmitted to a main controller of the transaction terminal for identification. A magnetic card signal from the magnetic card reader incorporated with card data of the magnetic card is selectively transceived through the integrator module to the main controller for identification. |
| US08505816B2 |
Public transit system fare processor for multi-balance funding
An implementation of a system and method for processing transfer rides associated with at least one public transit network is provided. The system and method preprocess transactions to consolidate or eliminate unnecessary transactions with a financial institution clearing and settlement network. |
| US08505815B2 |
System and method for processing expiration dates for prepaid cards
A prepaid card processing system is operable for processing customized expiration dates of prepaid cards. The prepaid card processing system includes a database for storing program expiration parameters associated with an issuer prepaid card program; a set of card accounts created under the issuer prepaid card program, wherein each card account has an expiration date for a prepaid card associated with the card account; and one or more customized expiration parameters for the set of card accounts. The prepaid card processing system is operable to determine the expiration date for the prepaid card associated with the card account based on the program expiration parameters and the customized expiration parameters for the set of card accounts. |
| US08505814B1 |
Cash dispensing automated banking machine with GPS
Automated banking machines include a Global Positioning System (GPS). The machines can transmit their GPS location reading to a service center. The service center can receive through a customer's cell phone, a customer request for directions to the nearest card-reading cash-dispensing machine that does not have a transaction fee. The customer request can include account data and GPS location of the cell phone. The service center can determine from the account data which financial networks would not cause the customer to be assessed a transaction fee for a cash withdrawal. The service center can then determine from the GPS locations of the machines in these financial networks, which machine is geographically closest to the phone's GPS location. Directions to this nearest automated banking machine are then sent to the phone. |
| US08505809B2 |
Hospital display terminal
A system is described for managing administration of medical care. The system can include a patient record system that contains electronic records for patients in a hospital. The electronic records may include scheduling information for medicine administration to the patient. A display terminal can be connected to the patient record system and be configured to read an RFID tag on the patient. The display terminal can then identify the patient and display the patient's medicine schedule. |
| US08505808B2 |
Avoiding the misapplication of contents in one or more containers
In one embodiment, a method for avoiding the misapplication of contents in one or more containers, the method comprising: providing a first smart label, the first smart label comprising first information corresponding to a first recipe for a first composition to be applied by a machine to crops in a first portion of a field, the first recipe based on geofence information for the first portion of the field; and assigning by a processor the first smart label to a first container that stores the first composition. |
| US08505807B2 |
Vessel and method for making the same
A vessel composed of a sheet of flexible material, cut, rolled, and affixed to form a frusto-conically shaped base region. The sheet when rolled including an upper region having two opposing flaps, each flap delineated from a remaining portion of the sheet by a path along which the sheet is scored, so that the flaps, when folded along their respective paths, define a single elevated drinking portion having a spout formed between an extension of the base region and at least one of the two flaps. |
| US08505804B2 |
Metal paste for sealing, hermetic sealing method for piezoelectric element, and piezoelectric device
The present invention is a metal paste for sealing comprising a metal powder and an organic solvent characterized in that the metal powder is one or more kinds of metal powders selected from a gold powder, a silver powder, a platinum powder and a palladium powder which has a purity of 99.9% by weight or more and an average particle size of 0.1 μm to 1.0 μm and that the metal powder is contained in a ratio of 85 to 93% by weight and the organic solvent is contained in a ratio of 5 to 15% by weight. This metal paste preferably contains an additive such as a surfactant in accordance with the application method. As a sealing method using this metal paste, there is a method of applying and drying a metal paste, sintering it at 80 to 300° C. to form a metal powder sintered body and after that pressurizing the base member and the cap member while heating the metal powder sintered body. |
| US08505801B2 |
Surgical fastener applying apparatus
The present disclosure relates to surgical fastener applying apparatus for sequentially applying a plurality of surgical fasteners to body tissue. The surgical fastener applying apparatus includes a replaceable cartridge assembly receivable in a distal end portion of a cartridge receiving half-section, the cartridge assembly including a safety lockout pivotably disposed along the upper surface of the cartridge assembly and movable from an unlocked orientation permitting assembly of an anvil half-section to the cartridge receiving half-section, to a locked orientation preventing assembly of the anvil half-section to the cartridge receiving-half section. |
| US08505798B2 |
Fastener driving device
A fastener driving device includes a fastener driver, a magazine for carrying a supply of fasteners to the fastener driver, a spring that moves the fastener driver through a drive stroke, and a motor configured to move the fastener driver through a return stroke. The motor is operable upon completion of the drive stroke, to move the fastener driver partially through the return stroke a predetermined amount to partially pre-compress the spring. The motor is further operable to fully compress the spring after receiving a signal for the drive stroke. |
| US08505797B1 |
Sound-suppressed, powder-actuated stud driver
A sound-suppressed, powder-actuated stud driver may include a single-use cartridge assembly and a reusable handle assembly. The cartridge assembly may include a housing with a through-bore. The through-bore may include a firing pin retainer with a firing pin therein, an ammunition cartridge case adjacent the firing pin retainer, a piston at least partially disposed in the ammunition cartridge case, and a stud. The handle assembly may include a housing with one open end and a bore extending inwardly from the open end. A handle assembly firing pin may extend axially into the bore from a closed end of the housing. A pair of blocking pins may be movable into and out of the bore, for ensuring proper loading of the cartridge assembly into the bore. A spring-loaded locking pin may lock the cartridge assembly in the bore. |
| US08505792B1 |
Phone mounting assembly
A phone mounting assembly is provided for supporting a portable phone on a steering wheel in an accessible position to facilitate hands-free use of the phone. The assembly includes a steering wheel and a connection member couplable to the steering wheel. The connection member has a planar medial section designed for insertion into a clip of a cell phone holder. A first stopping member is coupled to the medial section such that the first stopping member restricts lateral movement of the clip of the cell phone holder on the connection member. |
| US08505790B2 |
Method and apparatus for attaching a personal electronic device
Systems and methods for supporting an electronic device include an electronic device storage chamber; a shoulder strap attached to a top end of the electronic device storage chamber; a chest strap attached to a surface of the electronic device storage chamber; a bottom arm hingeably attached to a bottom end of the electronic device storage chamber; a ball joint attached to the bottom arm; and an electronic device support arm having a first end attached to the ball joint. In one embodiment, a phone arm can be attached to a surface of the electronic device storage chamber to adjustably support the position of a phone so that a user can simultaneously use the phone and the electronic device such as a tablet in a hands-free manner. |
| US08505784B2 |
Fluid dispenser and a method for its use
A valve operating mechanism for use in a fluid dispenser is described, wherein the fluid dispenser includes a reservoir for a fluid to be delivered, a fluid outlet for the reservoir, a piston configured to move through the reservoir, and an actuator for the piston, the valve operating mechanism including a valve, wherein the valve has an upstream side and a downstream side, and in at least one point of operation of the valve operating mechanism, the valve is inoperable as a consequence of the pressure difference between the upstream side of the valve and the downstream side of the valve. |
| US08505780B2 |
Proppant storage vessel and assembly thereof
A proppant storage vessel has a first container with an interior volume, and a second container supported in spaced relation above the first container. The first container has a bottom hatch affixed to a bottom wall thereof. The bottom hatch is movable between an open position and a closed position. The first container has an opening at a top wall thereof. The second container has bottom hatch formed on a bottom wall thereof. The bottom hatch of the second container is aligned with the opening of the first container such that a proppant in the second container can flow through the hatch thereof into the interior volume of the first container. Each of the containers includes first, second, third and fourth inclined surfaces positioned in the interior volume and extending from the respective side walls and end walls thereof toward the bottom hatch. |
| US08505779B2 |
Cap for an atomiser
The invention relates to a cap comprising a base with means for fixing it to a container, a top fixed to the base by a hinge, closure means consisting of a first closure means and a second closure means, one on the base and the other on the top, the closure means working together to keep the top in a first position in which it is closed against the base, release means for moving apart from each other the first closure means and the second closure means and means for lifting the top. In accordance with the invention, the means for lifting the top consist of at least one leaf spring, one of whose ends is fixed to the base and the other of whose ends is able to slide on the bowl of the top, the leaf spring being under tension when the top is closed, and being relaxed or partially relaxed when the top is in the fully open position. This cap is particularly intended for use as a spray head for a spray device. |
| US08505776B2 |
Liquid and foamed soap dispensing
A soap dispensing assembly includes a soap container and a universal dispenser. The soap container is capable of having a liquid pump or a foaming pump attached to it. The universal dispenser is adapted to house and dispense soap from the soap container regardless of whether the container has a liquid pump or a foaming pump. Using this assembly, a manufacturer may sell the universal dispenser and offer to sell the consumer liquid and foamable soap for use with the same dispenser. |
| US08505773B2 |
Indicating device
A dispensing device for dispensing metered dosages of a medicament from a container includes a dispenser housing having a support block defining a longitudinal axis and an indicator housing disposed at least partially around the support block. An actuator includes a central, cylindrical hub portion adapted to be engaged by the container and centered about the longitudinal axis. The actuator is moveable along the longitudinal axis relative to the indicator housing and includes a resilient arm. A drive gear is rotatably disposed in the indicator housing and is rotatable in response to successive engagements by the resilient arm. An indicator is rotatably disposed in the indicator housing and is rotatable in response to the rotation of the drive gear. The indicator includes dosage indicia. A dispensing system and indicating device are also disclosed. |
| US08505770B2 |
Plush animal waste bag dispenser
An animal waste bag dispenser wherein a roll of waste bags with the leading waste bag protruding from the center is inserted into a holder with an aperture on one end, and the holder is inserted into a plush animal with a second aperture aligned with the first aperture so that waste bags may be dispensed therefrom. |
| US08505768B2 |
Food tray
In one aspect, the present invention provides a foldable food tray that includes first and second panels, each having upper and lower surfaces and inner, outer, and side edges. Each panel can also include one or more hinge members and one or more locking members. The hinge member(s) can be operatively coupled to one another to permit the first and second panels to move between a closed position and an open position. The locking member(s) can be configured to releasably lock the first and second panels in the open position, thereby preventing the first and second panels from inadvertently moving from the open position. |
| US08505766B2 |
Magnifier device for mounting to a container
One aspect of the present invention provides a magnifier device for mounting to a container. The device comprises a container mount comprising a base portion and an adjustable portion. Each of the base portion and the adjustable portion comprises a container engaging surface. The container engaging surfaces are arranged for engaging a container received therebetween. The adjustable portion is mounted for movement relative to the base portion in (i) a contracting direction wherein the container engaging surfaces move relatively towards one another and (ii) an expanding direction wherein the container engaging surfaces move relatively away from one another, thus enabling receipt of containers of various sizes between the container engaging surfaces. The container mount comprises a resilient member for biasing the adjustable portion in the contracting direction, thus urging engagement of the container engaging surfaces against a container received therebetween. A magnifying lens is secured to a lens mounting part of the base portion of the container mount. |
| US08505764B2 |
Structure of clinch portion of mounting cup
The structure of a clinch portion of a mounting cup is provided which can retain a gasket. The clinch portion includes a curl portion continuous with an upper end of an outer circumferential wall at an inner circumferential edge of the curl portion, and a curl skirt portion having an upper end continuous with an outer circumferential edge of the curl portion. The curl portion is made of a plurality of curved planes having different radii extending from the inner circumferential edge to outer circumferential edge. A space a portion of the gasket can enter is formed between a virtual curved plane with a radius constituting the inner plane of the curl portion and an inner curved plane or an outer curved plane, or between the virtual curved plane and both the inner and outer curved planes. |
| US08505762B2 |
Vessel neck construction of a pressure vessel
The invention relates to a pressure vessel for the storage of liquid or gaseous media. The pressure vessel (1) comprises a plastic inner vessel (2) with at least one neck piece (4) which is not connected in one piece with the latter and which is arranged on the vessel neck in the region of the vessel orifice (8), and with a supporting jacket (3) at least partially surrounding the plastic inner vessel (2) and the neck piece (4). The neck piece (4) is provided with means for receiving a connection fitting (9). The pressure vessel according to the invention is distinguished by an insert (5) which forms at least part of the vessel neck and which forms a sealing seat for the fitting (9) to be inserted into the neck piece (4). |
| US08505761B2 |
Sealing bladderless system and method
Apparatus and methods are provided to minimize the escape of fuel out of a fuel tank when a tank wall is penetrated by a bullet. In one embodiment, a pressure differential may be maintained between a pressure within a fuel tank cavity and another pressure outside the fuel tank cavity in order to minimize the loss of fuel upon penetration of the fuel tank. In another embodiment, a compressed rubber layer of fuel-reactive rubber may be provided which is adapted to be attached to a fuel tank wall and to swell upon contact with fuel in order to substantially seal a penetrated hole in the fuel tank wall. |
| US08505748B2 |
Apparatus configured to support surgical instruments
An apparatus to support various surgical instruments is disclosed. The apparatus may include numerous chambers that may be used to separate different instruments. The chambers may have grooves that are used to support the instruments, and the height of the apparatus from the supporting surface may be comparable to the measurements of the instruments to provide a securing surface. |
| US08505743B2 |
Surface modification of polyamide reverse osmosis membranes
The present invention relates to surface modification of reverse osmosis membranes to introduce antifouling properties without compromising the separation properties of the original membranes. This approach utilizes: providing a coated membrane surface having enhanced hydrophilic characteristics that prevents the biofoulants from settling; have a surface that consists of hydrophilic brushes that unsettle any biofoulants that get through; and having antimicrobial ions present in the membrane coatings and able to remove or minimize any remaining biofoulants without leaching into the permeate. These coatings are made using dendritic polymers such as hyperbranched polymers or dendrimers. |
| US08505742B2 |
Perforated hexagon-hole tube support for synthetic screen separator
A separator cartridge includes a support tube formed of a perforated strip of metal configured to normally have a first diameter and a spaced array of hexagonal apertures formed therein and a substantially cylindrical screen member having a diameter less than the first diameter of the support tube, wherein a diameter of the support tube is decreased from the first diameter to a diameter less than the diameter of the screen member to be received in the screen member, and wherein the support tube causes the screen member to be maintained in a substantially taut manner. |
| US08505741B2 |
Water filter cartridge system having a combined blending valve system in the candle and adjusting device in the head
The present invention relates to a water filter, having a filter head and an interchangeable filter cartridge, with a blend-adjusting element which is located on the filter cartridge. The water filter is distinguished in that during the operation of installing the interchangeable filter cartridge in the filter head, the blend-adjusting element is positioned together with the filter cartridge on the filter head via adjustable or fixed drivers. In a further embodiment, the water filter is distinguished in that an adjusting device comprises an untreated-water distribution element arranged in or on the filter head and a partial-flow channel guiding element which is complementary with respect thereto and is arranged in or on the filter cartridge. |
| US08505739B2 |
Device for discarding trims formed during the cutting of paper logs
A device for discarding trims formed by cutting machines during the cutting of paper logs, including an advancing plane on which paper rolls (R) and trims (RT, RC) advance along a given direction (A), wherein the trims can fall through a discontinuity provided on the advancing plane. The advancing plane is formed by a first extendible conveyor (1) and a second extendible conveyor (2). Each of the conveyors (1, 2) is connected with an extension and retraction device. The discontinuity on the advancing plane is realized or eliminated depending on the extended or not extended configuration of the conveyors (1, 2). |
| US08505734B1 |
Apparatus for removing magnetic materials
Disclosed herein are various inventive methods and apparatus related to removing magnetic materials from a liquid solution utilizing an apparatus employing a conveyor belt. The conveyor belt may have a forward run moving in a forward direction from a first pulley to a second pulley and a rearward run moving in a rearward direction from the second pulley to the first pulley. The apparatus may include a longitudinally extending magnet housing interposed between the forward run of the conveyor belt and the rearward run of the conveyor belt and interposed between the first pulley and the second pulley. At least one longitudinally extending magnet may be substantially sealingly enclosed in the magnet housing. |
| US08505732B2 |
Wafer container with elasticity module
A wafer container, comprising: a container body, the container body having a plurality of slot portions on two opposite sidewalls of the interior of the container body for horizontally sustaining a plurality of wafers, each slot portion having a horizontal carrying portion, an opening being formed on one side of the container body for exporting and importing a plurality of wafers; and a door, said door having an inner surface and a outer surface, the inner surface being joined with the opening of the container body for protecting the plurality of wafers therein, the characteristic in that: an elasticity module is disposed on the inner wall of the rear end of the container body opposite to the opening, the elasticity module having a rectangular body and a convex portion bending toward the interior of the container body being respectively formed on two longer opposite sides of the rectangular body. |
| US08505727B2 |
Package with switch and containing an electrical device
A blister package (12) of transparent plastics material having an actuation portion (18), an electrical device such as a flashlight (14) with a slider switch (32) disposed at least partially within the package, the device including a battery power source (22) and an activatable component such as a LED or light; and a package switch (46) with actuation element (66) having an activation condition and a deactivation condition and being changeable from its deactivation condition to its activation condition. The package and device combination being configured for the power source to form part of a closed electrical circuit with, and to activate, the activatable component when the package switch is in its activation condition, and for the circuit to be open once the package switch has changed to its deactivation condition. The consumer can test the operation of the packaged flashlight by operating the switch (46) to illuminate either the LED (24) or the fluorescent tube (26). |
| US08505725B1 |
Sand ceremony apparatus
A sand ceremony apparatus has a sand receptacle with an opening at a top thereof and an interior volume suitable for the receipt of sand therein, a cover removably affixed over the opening and having a support surface formed thereon, and a decorative article removably positioned on the support surface of the cover. A structure that has an interior space in which the receptacle is received in the interior space. This structure include a first panel and a second panel. A first vase and a second vase are removably positioned in the structure on opposite sides of the sand receptacle. |
| US08505724B2 |
Package assembly for wiper blade
A wiper package assembly for use in packaging a pre-curved wiper blade. The wiper package assembly generally includes a package and a pair of end caps fittable onto the wiper blade and into the package. The package and end caps may be configured to cooperatively hold the pre-curved wiper blade in an at least partially straightened condition. The end caps may be configured to engage the wiper blade without altering the shape of the wiper blade tip, thereby reducing the risk of the wiper tip becoming deformed during by the package. In one embodiment, the end caps are ambidextrous in the sense that identical end caps can be used on opposite ends of the wiper blade. The end cap may include two support slots configured to correspond with the shape of the opposite ends of an asymmetrical wiper blade. |
| US08505723B2 |
Packaging system for retaining propulsive devices
A packaging fixture may include a first member including a plurality of first generally round apertures and a plurality of first elongated apertures. The first member may include a thickness from a first side to an opposite second side and each of the plurality of first round apertures and the plurality of elongated apertures may extend through the thickness of the first member. Each of the plurality of elongated apertures may be connected to and extend from a corresponding one of the plurality of first round apertures. Each of the plurality of first round apertures may be adapted to receive a portion of a propulsive device. The first member may be adapted to retain the propulsive device when a protrusion of the propulsive device is misaligned with a corresponding one of the plurality of elongated apertures. |
| US08505716B2 |
Packaged products and array of bandoleer of packaged products
The invention relates to a packaged product (3) or group (19) of products, such as a candy, wherein said product or group of products (3) has an elongated form, wherein the package comprises at least one film (1, 2) which encloses said product or group of products, and wherein part of said film extends from at least one outer end of the product or group of products, and wherein said part of the film is bent away from the direction of the axis of the elongated product or group of products back towards a part of the film that surrounds the product and is bonded therewith. The invention also relates to an easy opening arrangement for packaged products, and to an array or bandoleer (19) of products with reduced packaging material. |
| US08505708B2 |
Orientation sensing apparatus and method for a bill validator
A bill validating apparatus includes a housing having an elongated opening therein. At one end of the elongated opening there is an article receiving slot. A first sensor is on one long side of the elongated slot and a second sensor is on the other long side. The bill validating system includes a transport mechanism for moving the article of tender past the sensors. The bill validating apparatus also includes an orientation determination device communicatively coupled to the first sensor and the second sensor. In response to a determined orientation of the bill validating apparatus, the orientation determination device enables one of the first sensor or the second sensor. |
| US08505705B2 |
Stamped laminated stacks for parking pawl, parking gear and parking anchor
A parking brake (10) for a transmission (12) of a motorized vehicle (14). An anchor (24) is located to support an actuator (26) interposed between the anchor (24) and a parking pawl (22) when the parking pawl (22) is in the engaged position with a toothed parking gear (20). The anchor (24) is defined by a plurality of stacked laminas (30). Each of the plurality of stacked laminas (30) is rigid and has at least one peripherally extending surface (32), wherein the at least one peripherally extending surface (32) of at least two of the plurality of stacked laminas cooperate to define at least one load-bearing surface (34), and wherein the plurality of stacked laminas (30) are secured together to prevent relative movement of any one of the plurality of stacked laminas (30) with respect to another of the plurality of stacked laminas (30) when a load is transmitted through the parking pawl (22) from the at least one load-bearing surface (34). |
| US08505700B2 |
Security braking device mounted between a hydraulic fuel tank and actuation members capable of acting on braking members
The device includes a loading and non-compression locking mechanism for a master cylinder hydraulically connected to a hydraulic fuel tank and to braking members. The mechanism is dependent upon a control member capable of unlocking the mechanism in order to concomitantly urge the master cylinder to apply a predetermined hydraulic pressure for acting on the braking members. |
| US08505698B2 |
Brake pad
The subject invention generally relates to a disc brake pad which has reduced brake squeal in response to a braking event by the incorporation of a relieved portion to the center section of a friction pad along an outer edge or inner edge thereof, or along both edges. The invention is a disc brake pad which includes a backing plate and friction pad attached to the backing plate. |
| US08505692B2 |
Elevator system
Provided is an elevator system which can perform an optimum assignment suited to the operation condition of elevators and can appropriately notify a user of accurate information. For this purpose, there are provided a call registration device which registers a destination call before boarding and a notification device which provides elevator information. Normally, immediately after registration of a destination call, the notification device provides information on an assigned car. On the other hand, when a prescribed assignment review condition is met, immediately after registration of a destination call, the notification device provides information to the effect that the registration has been accepted, thereafter the assignment of the elevator is reviewed, and the notification device provides information on an assigned car when the elevator responds to the destination call. |
| US08505688B2 |
Mast lift and mast lift system
A lift system is coupled between a work platform and a mast on a mast lift. The lift system includes an overload clutch that slips upon an overload on the lift system, an overrun brake that prevents the lift system from running beyond a fully lowered position and that prevents the lift system from running if the platform is hung up, and an emergency brake. The lift system is safe and lightweight and is effective for controlling a position of the work platform on the mast. |
| US08505687B2 |
Play structure safety device
Many family homes, school and municipal parks have play structures for children. Typically these playground play structures have ladders. In the case of family homes in particular, toddlers typically enjoy climbing the ladders but then are stuck at the top and in danger of falling off the ladder. In order to prevent toddlers from climbing the ladder of the play structures when unattended by an adult, and ultimately preventing injury, an invention that prevents the ladder from being climbed by a toddler is presented here. |
| US08505684B1 |
Aerial work platform apparatus and method
An aerial work platform apparatus and method for automatically leveling a mobile aerial work platform, including a base frame, a movable platform, a lift mechanism configured to move the platform in a substantially vertical direction with respect to the base frame, a stabilizing assembly including at least one outrigger leg mounted on the base frame, and a control assembly. |
| US08505682B2 |
Lightweight polymeric exhaust components
Disclosed is a muffler assembly including: a) polymeric housing having an interior surface and at least one opening for at least one inlet and one outlet exhaust pipe; b) at least one metal inlet exhaust pipe and at least one metal outlet exhaust pipe positioned within the openings to provide housing-exhaust pipe interfaces; c) a thermal insulating material coating the interior surface of the polymeric housing and extending through the housing-exhaust pipe interfaces; wherein the thermal insulating material seals the muffler assembly at the housing-exhaust pipe interfaces; and wherein the muffler assembly has a leak rate of 105 Liters/minute or less at 4.5 psig pressure. An optional muffler assembly has body mounting adapters attached to the inlet and outlet exhaust pipes and positioned within the openings to provide housing-body mounting adapter interfaces. Also disclosed are processes for manufacturing the muffler assemblies. |
| US08505680B2 |
Firearm attachment
In one example, a firearm attachment includes a base adapted to be coupled to a firearm. The firearm attachment also includes a plurality of substantially longitudinal tines extending forwardly from the base and arranged circumferentially around a central axis of the attachment. The firearm attachment also includes at least one bore substantially concentric with the central axis. The firearm attachment also includes three longitudinal slots defined by sidewalls of adjacent ones of the tines and adapted to pass combustion gases from the bore. The sidewalls extend from the bore to an outer circumfery of the attachment. Sidewalls of adjacent tines lie in respective planes that intersect at an angle in a range of approximately 9 degrees to approximately 12 degrees. Other implementations and related methods are also provided. |
| US08505678B2 |
Fluid transfer pipe and fluid transfer apparatus and a fluid attenuator and attenuator apparatus
A fluid transfer pipe (1) comprising opposed ends (3, 5) adapted to be connected to respective pipework, the pipe (1) comprising a longitudinal axis (9), the transverse cross section of the pipe (1) varying along the length of the pipe such that the distance radially outwardly from the longitudinal axis (9) to the inner wall of the pipe (1) is non linear along at least part of the length of the pipe. A fluid attenuator comprising such a pipe is also disclosed. |
| US08505673B2 |
Control system for a vehicle
A control system for a saddle-type vehicle is provided. The control system includes a reverse lever, a hand brake lever, a throttle lever and at least one mount bracket. Each of the reverse lever, the hand brake lever and the throttle lever are pivotably coupled to the at least one mount bracket and the at least one mount bracket is configured to be connected to a first one of a right handlebar and a left handlebar of a saddle-type vehicle. |
| US08505672B2 |
Underbody integrated exhaust path for fuel cell vehicles
A fuel cell vehicle is provided with a temperature tolerant exhaust system that eliminates the need for exhaust pipes, pipe routing, support systems, and ground clearance issues. The exhaust system includes a fuel cell exhaust pipe in fluid communication with a fuel cell stack and an exhaust tube. The exhaust tube is supported within an exhaust channel that extends along and forms a part of the underbody of the fuel cell vehicle. Alternatively, the exhaust tube is formed within the interior of the exhaust channel. |
| US08505671B1 |
Drivable caster wheel
A drivable caster wheel assembly comprises a support socket defining a journal, a support frame with a post with a portion thereof positioned in the journal and being rotatable in the journal of the support socket about a substantially vertical axis. The support frame may include an arm mounted on the post. An axle is mounted on the arm. A wheel is mounted on the axle and is rotatable about a substantially horizontal axis. A hydraulic motor is mounted on the support frame and configured to rotate the wheel with respect to the support frame. A fluid transfer structure is configured to transfer fluid from a fluid power source on the mobile base when the support socket is mounted on the mobile base to the motor for driving the wheel while maintaining an ability of the support frame and wheel to rotate about the substantially vertical axis. |
| US08505669B2 |
Driving force distribution device
In the case where a difference between rotational speeds of right and left wheels detected by wheel speed sensors is less than a predetermined value, a right and left wheel power transmission control section distributes driving force between the right and left wheels so that a total value of the driving force of the right and left wheels does not exceed a limit value set up by a front and rear wheels power transmission control section. In the case where the difference between the rotational speeds of the right and left wheels is the predetermined value or more, the right and left wheel power transmission control section transmits the driving force up to a driving force upper limit for each wheel to the respective right and left rear wheels regardless of the total value of the driving force of the right and left rear wheels. |
| US08505665B2 |
Thermal assistance for bicycle
A pedaling assistance device for a light vehicle, in particular a bicycle, equipped with pedals and a ratio-changing transmission, this device comprising a heat engine equipped with a reducing gear mechanically coupled with an element receiving muscular pedaling power from a user of the light vehicle, the mechanical coupling being effected upstream of said ratio-changing transmission so that the heat engine benefits from said changes of ratio, wherein the assistance device comprises a torque limiter, placed on the kinematics of the reducing gear of the heat engine between said heat engine and the mechanical coupling. |
| US08505660B2 |
Shutter system for vehicle grille
An apparatus for use with a vehicle grille may include a frame, a shutter, and a drive mechanism. The shutter may be connected to the frame and may be pivotable relative thereto between a first position and a second position. The shutter may include a pivot axis and an engagement member. The shutter may restrict airflow through a vehicle grille in the first position and allow airflow through the vehicle grille in the second position. The drive mechanism may drive the shutter between the first and second positions. The drive mechanism may include a drive shaft rotating relative to the frame and a drive member engaging the drive shaft and moving linearly relative to the frame. The drive member may include an arcuate slot slidably engaging the engagement member. |
| US08505659B2 |
Road vehicle with hybrid propulsion
An embodiment of a road vehicle with hybrid propulsion including: at least one pair of driving wheels; a thermal internal combustion engine; a double clutch gearbox provided with two primary shafts, two clutches interposed between the thermal internal combustion engine and the primary shafts, at least a secondary shaft constantly meshing with the driving wheels, and a plurality of pairs of gears, each of them defining a respective speed and comprising a primary gear mounted to a primary shaft and a secondary gear which is mounted to the secondary shaft and constantly meshes with the primary gear; a first reversible electric machine having a shaft, which is connected to a first primary shaft of the gearbox; and a second reversible electric machine having a shaft, which is mechanically connected to a second primary shaft of the gearbox different from the first primary shaft. |
| US08505658B2 |
Hub unit and a powertrain for a vehicle
A hub unit includes an electric machine adapted for driving a wheel. The hub unit includes at least two planetary gears coupled in series between the electric machine and a wheel hub, and a gear shifting device for connecting and disconnecting, respectively, one of the planetary gears from being drivingly connected to the electric machine. |
| US08505657B2 |
Vehicle suspension and drive system
The present invention pertains to a lightweight, portable, electric vehicle having a novel steering mechanism, a low profile suspension and drive mechanism, and which also provides a superior ride quality, handling, and drivability. The vehicle generally comprises a frame and at least one suspension and motor assembly. Each suspension and motor assembly includes at least one leaf spring mounted to the frame, a motor connected to the leaf spring, the motor having a drive shaft, and a wheel rotatably connected to the drive shaft. The vehicle also includes means for powering the motor and means for controlling to enable a user to drive the vehicle. |
| US08505655B1 |
Superabrasive inserts including an arcuate peripheral surface
Superabrasive inserts are disclosed. More particularly, a superabrasive insert may comprise a superabrasive layer bonded to a substrate at an interface. Further, the superabrasive layer may include a central substantially planar surface, a peripheral side surface, and an arcuate peripheral surface extending between the central substantially planar surface and the peripheral side surface. In one embodiment, the arcuate peripheral surface may comprise a lateral extent and an extension depth, wherein a ratio of the lateral extent to the extension depth is at least about 1.5. In another embodiment, an arcuate peripheral surface may comprise a substantially circular arc, wherein the substantially planar surface is tangent to the substantially circular arc and a tangent reference line to the substantially circular arc forms an angle of at least about 10° with the peripheral side surface. Subterranean drilling tools (e.g., drill bits) including at least one superabrasive insert are disclosed. |
| US08505654B2 |
Polycrystalline diamond
A PCD composite compact comprising a PCD structure bonded at an interface to a substrate comprising cemented carbide material; the PCD structure comprising a mass of directly inter-bonded diamond grains having a mean size of at most about 4 microns, and the PCD structure comprising at least about 0.05 weight percent refractory metal or carbide of a refractory metal selected from the group comprising W, Ti, V, Cr, Zr, Nb, Mo, Hf and Ta; and at least the cemented carbide material proximate the interface having a content of metallic binder material of at most about 6 weight percent. |
| US08505651B2 |
Anchor system and method for anchoring a tool with a positional bias
An anchor system including a housing having a radial opening therein. A piston disposed within the housing and translatable therein. A slip in operable communication with the piston such that translation of the piston axially of the housing causes movement of the slip radially of the housing. The slip having a contact face that is nonparallel to an axis of the housing and nonparallel to a surface against which the slip is configured to be set. A method for anchoring a tool is included. |
| US08505649B2 |
Power tool
A power (1) tool including a driven member (15) that is operable to grip and drive at least one working element (4), drive means (25) operable to drive the driven member, the power tool being operable in either a working mode in which the driven member is driven to enable the working element to perform work, or an adjustment mode in which the driven member is adjusted to grip or release the working element, torque control means (7) controlling the torque produced by the drive means, the torque control means being operable to render the drive means inoperable when the torque exceeds a pre-determined level, the torque control means having an adjustment setting (17) which must be selected to enable the power tool to operate in an adjustment mode whereby the adjustment setting corresponds to a relatively low level of torque. |
| US08505646B2 |
Cab and motor grader
A cab includes a floor panel, an operator's seat, a handle post, an operating lever and a pedal. The operating lever includes a rod, a lower link member, an upper link member and a handle. The rod has a rod lower end portion, a rod upper end portion and a bent portion connected to the rod lower end portion and the rod upper end portion. The bent portion is formed in a forwardly convex shape. The pedal has a placement surface on which a foot of an operator is placed. A straight line passing along the placement surface in a side view intersecting with the bending point, when the pedal is located in any position within a pivot range. |
| US08505643B2 |
Method and apparatus for harvesting and picking up sod
A sod harvester for cutting sod strips from a ground surface while leaving an uncut strip between at least two sod strips The sod harvester includes a mounting frame and a number of cutting heads connected to the mounting frame. The cutting heads are positioned transversely to the path of travel for cutting the sod strips. At least two cutting heads are spaced apart by the width of the uncut strip. A conveyor is located behind the cutting heads for transporting the strips upwardly and rearwardly from the cutting heads. |
| US08505642B2 |
Methods and apparatus for dual stage hazard control system
Methods and apparatus for a dual stage hazard suppression system according to various aspects of the present invention include a housing containing a first hazard control material that is configured to be located close to a hazard source and a container containing a second hazard control material located at a distance from the hazard source. The housing may be configured to release the first hazard control material in response to a breach of the housing and/or the hazard source. The container may be configured for a timed release of the second hazard control material in response to the release of the first hazard control material. Alternatively, a sensor may be used to trigger the release of the second hazard control material in response to a triggering event separate from the initial breach of the housing and/or the hazard source. |
| US08505641B2 |
Electrification spray head
A wide protection range can be ensured by extending the flying distance of fire-extinguishing agent particles electrified and sprayed from a head. A water-based fire-extinguishing agent is pressurized and supplied to an electrification spray head 10 installed in a protection area A via a pipe, the jetted particles of the fire-extinguishing agent are electrified and sprayed from the electrification spray head 10. The electrification spray head mixes and sprays the fire-extinguishing agent having a comparatively small particle size included in a range from 30 μm to 200 μm by a small-particle jetting nozzle 38a and the fire-extinguishing agent having a comparatively-large particle size of 200 μm to 2000 μm by a large-particle jetting nozzle 38b, thereby carrying the group of the fire-extinguishing-agent particles having the small particle size by the air current caused by spraying the group of the fire-extinguishing-agent particles having the large particle size. |
| US08505640B2 |
Apparatus for firefighting
A combination of a liquid fire extinguishing composition including potassium salts or aluminum salts of an organic acid, resulting in a viscous liquid, is finely divided by a nozzle into droplets which may be applied to a fire or fuel therefor or form a cloud of droplets which settle onto such fire and/or fuel which is particularly effective for fighting fires where fuel is at least initially contained such as oil and grease fires in cooling utensils being heated on stoves. Propellant is contained and not entrained in the dispensed fire fighting composition to avoid at least spreading of the fuel beyond the containment. |
| US08505639B2 |
Indexing sleeve for single-trip, multi-stage fracing
A sliding sleeve has a sensor that detects plugs (darts, balls, etc.) passing through the sleeves. A first insert on the sleeve can be hydraulically activated by the fluid pressure in the surrounding annulus once a preset number of plugs have passed through the sleeve. Movement of this first insert activates a catch on a second insert. Once the next plug is deployed, the catch engages it so that fluid pressure applied against the seated plug through the tubing string can moves the second insert. Once moved, the insert reveals port in the housing communicating the sleeve's bore with the surrounding annulus so an adjacent wellbore interval can be stimulated. The first insert may also be hydraulically activated after a preset time after a plug has passed through the sleeve. Several sleeves can be used together in various arrangements to treat multiple intervals of a wellbore. |
| US08505637B2 |
System and method for forming a coiled tubing connection
A coiled tubing connection system is used in a well. A connector having an engagement end is used to couple a wellbore device to the end of a coiled tubing. The connector is spoolable, and the engagement end comprises engagement features that facilitate formation of a connection that is dependable and less susceptible to separation. |
| US08505636B2 |
Wellhead assembly having a nested tubing head
A wellhead assembly includes a casing head and a tubing head that is landed within the casing head when the tubing head is landed. The casing head has top and bottom ends, and its bottom end is coupled to surface casing. The tubing head also has top and bottom ends, and its bottom end is coupled to an additional casing string, such as production casing. The tubing head can be landed on the casing head through a blowout preventer. |
| US08505635B2 |
Device for a top drive drilling machine for continuous circulation of drilling mud
A device for a top drive drilling machine, in which a drive shaft (14), which is arranged for releasable connection to a drive (12) and to a first end portion (51) of a drill pipe (5), is provided with a center bore (141) extending therethrough and arranged for fluid communication between the drilling mud plant (6) and a fluid bore (53) in the drill pipe (5). First and second releasable, drive-shaft-surrounding, respectively drill-string-surrounding, pressure seals (1311c, 1321) and a valve (133) which is arranged to provide, in an open position, a passage (1331) for the drill pipe (5) or drive shaft (14), form a first and a second chamber. A drilling mud inlet (1323) is arranged for the second chamber (132) and is arranged for fluid communication between the drilling mud plant (6) and connection housing (13). A method for the continuous supply of drilling mud to a drill string (4) by the use of the drilling machine. |
| US08505632B2 |
Method and apparatus for deploying and using self-locating downhole devices
A technique that is usable with a well includes deploying a plurality of location markers in a passageway of the well and deploying an untethered object in the passageway such that the object travels downhole via the passageway. The technique includes using the untethered object to sense proximity of at least some of the location markers as the object travels downhole, and based on the sensing, selectively expand its size to cause the object to become lodged in the passageway near a predetermined location. |
| US08505629B2 |
Foamed spacer fluids containing cement kiln dust and methods of use
Disclosed are spacer fluids comprising cement kiln dust (“CKD”) and methods of use in subterranean formations. An embodiment discloses a method comprising: providing a foamed spacer fluid comprising CKD, a foaming agent, a gas, and water; and introducing the foamed spacer fluid into a well bore to displace at least a portion of a first fluid present in the well bore. Another embodiment discloses a method comprising: providing a foamed spacer fluid comprising a partially calcined kiln feed removed from a gas stream, a foaming agent, a gas, and water, wherein the partially calcined kiln feed comprises SiO2, Al2O3, Fe2O3, CaO, MgO, SO3, Na2O, and K2O; and introducing the foamed spacer fluid into a well bore to displace at least a portion of a first fluid present in the well bore. |
| US08505627B2 |
Downhole separation and reinjection
A technique enhances hydrocarbon fluid production. The technique utilizes a well with a plurality of lateral wellbores positioned to facilitate removal of well fluid from a hydrocarbon reservoir. A separator is disposed in the well to receive well fluid that flows from a lateral production leg. Operation of the separator separates well fluid into an oil component and a water component to enable production of the oil component. The water component is injected into the reservoir in a manner that drives well fluid trapped in the reservoir into the lateral production leg. |
| US08505625B2 |
Controlling well operations based on monitored parameters of cement health
A method of controlling a well operation can include monitoring at least one parameter of cement lining a wellbore, the monitoring being performed via at least one optical waveguide, and modifying the well operation in response to the parameter being outside of a predetermined acceptable range. A well monitoring system can include at least one optical waveguide which is used to sense at least one parameter of cement lining a wellbore, an optical interrogation system optically connected to the at least one optical waveguide, and a control system which controls operation of at least one item of well equipment in response to information received from the optical interrogation system. |
| US08505623B2 |
Retrievable bridge plug
A bridge plug can be deployed downhole and retrieved using a retrieval tool disposed on jointed or coiled tubing or on another bridge plug. Internally, the bridge plug has a sleeve that is movable on a stem of the plug's tailpiece. When in a first position, the sleeve prevents fluid communication through ports in the stem so that circulated fluid from the retrieval tool can be used to clear debris from the plug during retrieval. When the retrieval tool engages the sleeve in the plug, pulling up on the tool moves the sleeve to an intermediate position in which fluid pressure is equalized across the plug. Further pulling up on the tool locks the sleeve in a further position on the stem so that circulated fluid from the retrieval tool will pass directly to the stem's ports. Movement of the sleeve by the retrieval tool also releases the engaged slips and packing element on the bridge plug's mandrel. |
| US08505620B2 |
Method and system for accessing subterranean deposits from the surface and tools therefor
According to one embodiment, a system for accessing a subterranean zone from the surface includes a well bore extending from the surface to the subterranean zone, and a well bore pattern connected to the junction and operable to drain fluid from a region of the subterranean zone to the junction. |
| US08505617B2 |
Structure and apparatus for cooling integrated circuits using copper microchannels
A cooler having a unitary construction including a channel portion including a plurality of fins on a base, the plurality of fins defining a plurality of microchannels therebetween, a tapered opening formed in a set of the plurality of fins, a manifold portion disposed on an edge portion of the base, the manifold portion including an inlet port and an outlet port disposed above the tapered opening in the plurality of fins, and a separator sheet including at least two elongated openings disposed between the channel portion and the manifold portion. |
| US08505616B2 |
Hybrid ceramic core cold plate
An exemplary cold plate housing defines an inlet port and an outlet port. A plurality of foam strip assemblies are disposed in the housing. The foam strip assemblies are arranged within the housing so coolant is flowable through a width of the foam strips. Each foam strip assembly includes at least first and second foam strip members each suitably having pore size of no more than around 50 micrometers and porosity of at least around 80 percent, and a first spacer member is interposed between the first and second foam strip members. Each of the foam strip assemblies may include a second spacer member interposed between the first spacer member and one of the first and second foam strip members. The spacer member may include a high thermal conductivity material, such as a metal like copper or aluminum, or a low thermal conductivity material such as a polymer or plastic. |
| US08505615B2 |
Cooling fan rack
A cooling fan rack includes a frame defining a union section; a plurality of stoppers arranged at four corners in the frame to cooperate with the frame to define an accommodating space; and a plurality of airflow paths formed between two adjacent stoppers to communicate with the accommodating space. The frame is provided at two lateral lower sides with a notch each, which communicate with the accommodating space. The two notches are sized for straddling two upper outer sides of a radiating fin assembly, so that the radiating fin assembly with a reduced volume can be upward fitly received in the accommodating space. A cooling fan is downward firmly fitted in the union section. Part of the cooling airflow produced by the cooling fan can flow through the airflow paths to two opposite ends of the radiating fin assembly, enabling upgraded heat dissipation effect. |
| US08505614B2 |
Device for minimizing an undesired passage of fluid from a first sector to a second sector as well as a heat exchanger system comprising such a device
The present invention relates to a measure for minimizing an undesired passage of fluid from a first sector (1) to a second sector (2) separated by a non-fluid-tight separation (3), wherein a first pressure (P1-1) prevails in the first sector (1) and a lower second pressure (P2-1) than the first pressure (P1-1) prevails in the second sector (2). An intermediate chamber (4) which separates the two sectors (1, 2) from one another is arranged at the separation (3).A conveyor mechanism (5) is further provided which is designed to convey fluid from the intermediate chamber (4) to the first sector (1). |
| US08505609B2 |
Safety assembly for a roller blind
A safety assembly for a roller blind has a fixing device, a moving device, a flexible element, a rotating device, a hooking device and a bead cord. The fixing device has a base panel, a stopping arm and a reset mount. The moving device is movably connected to the fixing device between the stopping arm and the reset mount. The flexible element is mounted between the reset mount and the moving device to push the moving device to move relative to the fixing device. The rotating device is rotatably mounted on the moving device and has a stopping disc and a rotating disk. The hooking device is mounted securely below the fixing device, the moving device and the rotating device. The bead cord is mounted between the rotating device and the hooking device to allow the rotating device rotating relative to the moving device by pulling the bead cord. |
| US08505608B2 |
Reinforcing structure for slide shutter
A reinforcing structure for a slide shutter deters unauthorized entry of an intruder into a building and allows easy opening and closing of the shutter. The reinforcing structure (1) for a slide shutter has a vertically movable shutter curtain (3) formed by interconnecting slats (3a), a left and right pair of guide rails (4a, 4b) for guiding the shutter curtain (3), and a shutter case (5) into which the shutter curtain (3) is wound and contained. The reinforcing structure (1) is also provided with a shutter reinforcing base member (6) having one end rotatably mounted to the upper end of one guide rail (4a) and the other end open, a length adjusting member (7) inserted in the shutter reinforcing base member (6), and a connecting member (8a) rotatably connected to the front end of the length adjusting member (7), vertically sliding while being guided by the other guide rail (4b), and capable of being removably mounted to the shutter curtain (3). |
| US08505606B2 |
Rotatable knob controlled adhesive tape dispenser
An adhesive tape dispenser has a body, an adhesive tap dispensing unit, a knob, a pushing element and a resilient element. The adhesive tape dispensing unit is mounted in the body. The knob is mounted rotatably on the body and has a guiding structure formed obliquely on the knob and having two ends each having a limiting capability to restrict a rotating range of the knob relative to the body between the ends of the guiding structure. The pushing element is mounted slidably in the body, is connected between the knob and the adhesive tape dispensing unit and has a guided structure connected slidably to slide along the guiding structure on the knob when the knob is rotated. The resilient element is mounted in the body to provide a recoil force to the adhesive tape dispensing unit. |
| US08505604B2 |
Laser head and method of connecting tubular parts by the laser transmission method
The invention relates to a laser head (11) for connecting tubular parts (1, 3, 12, 13) by the laser transmission method and to a method of connecting the tubular parts (1, 3, 12, 13) by means of the laser head (11). The laser head (11) and the method that can be performed by the laser head (11) are suitable in particular for connecting a connecting element or branching element (1) to one end of a plastic pipe (3). The laser head (11) makes simultaneous welding possible and has at least two shell parts (16) that can be radially separated from each other so that the laser head (11) can be placed around a connecting section (4) or a connecting region (15) of the tubular parts (1, 3, 12, 13). A number of laser sources (17) are arranged in the shell parts (16) in such a way that the laser beams (7) emerging from the laser sources (17) overlap at the connecting section (4) or at the connecting region (15) of the parts (1, 3, 12, 13). |
| US08505603B2 |
Vehicle having tires with reinforced sidewalls
A vehicle of motorcycle type comprising at least two axle systems each equipped with a mounted assembly consisting of a wheel and a tire. Each of the tires comprises, in each sidewall, at least one additional layer of reinforcing elements forming with the circumferential direction an angle of between 20° and 60°, the orientation of the reinforcing elements of the additional layer in a sidewall being symmetrical to the orientation of the reinforcing elements of the additional layer in the other sidewall in relation to the equatorial plane, the angle formed by the plane comprising a reinforcing element of an additional layer with a radial plane comprising the radially inner end of said reinforcing element being oriented in the direction of rotation of the mounted assembly corresponding to the forward movement of the vehicle in the rear tire and in the opposite direction in the front tire. |
| US08505594B2 |
Beverage bottling plant having a filling machine with multiple beverage filling elements, a filling machine with multiple beverage filling elements, a filling element and related method
A container filling element for filling containers with a liquid. The filling element has two liquid ducts and two separate discharge openings in a housing, as well as separate valves which control the flow of liquid for each liquid duct and discharge opening. A gas shutoff element is disposed in one of the liquid ducts and is positioned adjacent to each of the discharge openings. |
| US08505593B1 |
Refrigerator and dispenser
A refrigerator having a dispenser that includes an outlet and that is configured to dispense content through the outlet and along an output flow path. The refrigerator also includes a detection unit configured to detect user activity that is indicative of a desire to fill a container with content using the dispenser. The refrigerator further includes an optical system that is configured to, in response to detecting the user activity, direct a beam of light along at least a portion of the output flow path of the dispenser to assist a user in positioning a container to receive content dispensed along the output flow path. |
| US08505589B2 |
Arrangement and method for the wind of a single-layer-coil
An arrangement includes a coil-winding-tool to guide a metallic conductor for the forming of a part of the single-layer-coil. The coil-winding-tool is mounted to rotate around a first axis of rotation for the forming of the part of the coil. A conductor-feeding-drum carries the metallic conductor and is designed to hand over the metallic-conductor to the coil-winding-tool for forming. The conductor-feeding-drum is carried by a fixture. The fixture is mounted to rotate around a second axis of rotation, to allow a rotation of the conductor-feeding-drum around the second axis too. The first axis of rotation of the coil-winding-tool is perpendicular to the second axis of rotation of the conductor-feeding-drum, to allow the execution of the winding by the rotation of the coil-winding-tool and by the rotation of the conductor-feeding-drum. |
| US08505588B2 |
Production of a fibrous structure with variable thickness by 3D weaving
A method of making a fiber structure by multilayer three-dimensional weaving, the fiber structure having a thickness in a direction perpendicular to the warp and weft directions that varies along the warp direction while conserving the same number of warp yarns that are woven at all points of the fiber structure along the warp direction, wherein during a transition in the warp direction from a first portion of the fiber texture to a second portion of the fiber texture having a thickness that is greater than the thickness of the first portion, the number of warp planes is decreased and the number of layers of warp yarns is increased without changing the number of warp yarns, by constituting at least one warp plane in the second portion with warp yarns taken from at least two different warp planes in the first portion. |
| US08505586B2 |
Detachable transfer conduit
A disconnect transfer conduit comprising flexible tubing; a deformable sleeve surrounding a portion of the flexible tubing; wherein the sleeve is attached to the flexible tubing and is formed of a material having plasticity such that pressure applied to the sleeve causes the sleeve to deform about and seal the flexible tubing and upon continued application of pressure to the sleeve, the sleeve and flexible tubing are cut and the sleeve retains a deformed shape substantially sealing the tubing. Also provided is a method of sealing flexible tubing comprising applying pressure to a sleeve attached to flexible tubing to deform the sleeve and seal the tubing; wherein, applying further pressure to the sleeve to cut the sleeve and tubing, thereby leaving the tubing substantially sealed where cut. |
| US08505582B2 |
Hydraulic valve
A hydraulic valve for oscillating-motor camshaft adjuster is provided. The valve has a bush and a hollow piston with a piston bottom. The piston is axially movable within the bush by means of an actuator against the force of a screw-type pressure spring. The actuator is applied to the piston bottom. A sleeve secured in the bush is disposed inside the hollow piston and can be displaced relative to the piston. The wall of this sleeve has at least one through-opening, which leads to at least one opening of the hollow piston, which opening can guide a supply pressure (P) applied inside the sleeve alternatively to two sets of pressure chambers of the oscillating-motor camshaft adjuster. The sleeve has a sleeve bottom that seals off the inside space of hollow piston. |
| US08505578B2 |
Actuator for controlling a fluid flow
The invention relates to an actuator (10) for controlling a fluid flow which comprises a valve housing (11), a flow restrictor (18) and a valve seat (16), in which the flow restrictor (18) is designed such that the flow restrictor (18)—together with a closure (22) which is connected to the valve housing (12)—will form a pressure-relieving chamber (28), and as a result, a relative movement of the flow restrictor (18) and the chamber closure (22) together with the actuation will cause the volume of the pressure-relieving chamber (28) to change as a function of the direction of movement, and the flow restrictor (18) has a recess (24) which will allow the fluid to be controlled to flow into the pressure-relieving chamber (28). The invention is characterized in that the seal (26, 30) between the flow restrictor (18) and the valve housing (11) is designed such that, in the closing position, with the flow restrictor (18) resting tightly on the valve seat (16), the seal (26, 30) will have a sealing effect, and with the flow restrictor (18) not resting on the seat, the seal (26, 30) will allow a defined amount of fluid from the pressure-relieving chamber (28) to pass through. |
| US08505576B2 |
Valve housing blank and valve assembly
A valve housing blank comprises a receiving space for a valve insert having a longitudinal axis. At least two first pairs of supply ducts, which are opposite to each other with respect to the longitudinal axis, extend laterally from an outer side of the blank towards the receiving space. The pairs of supply ducts, as seen in the direction of the longitudinal axis, are arranged so as to be offset relative to each other. Only one of the supply ducts is open towards the receiving space. The other supply ducts are closed off from the receiving space by a destroyable dividing wall. |
| US08505575B2 |
Water supply module for hydrotherapy device
A water supply module for hydrotherapy, which includes a pump, a water inlet, a micro bubble water outlet, a pressurized water outlet, a relief valve, and a mixer. The water inlet is connected to the pump. The micro bubble water outlet and the pressurized water outlet are connected to an outlet of the pump. The relief valve is installed in between the outlet of the pump and the micro bubble water outlet, and the mixer is installed in between the water inlet and the relief valve. A drain valve is further connected off the bottom of the pump to drain out the residual water from the pump and the piping. The integrated water supply module provides space-saving advantage. Furthermore, by draining the residual water, the water supply module also improves SPA hygiene by reducing the risk of skin diseases and infections. |
| US08505573B2 |
Apparatus and method for controlling fluid flow
An actuator base, bobbin, and pole piece form a pocket for an armature that a flexible membrane encloses to form an armature chamber filled with an incompressible fluid. The membrane protects the armature from exposure to corrosive fluids flowing in a conduit. Conduit flow can be stopped by driving the membrane against a valve seat. Pressure from the controlled fluid in the conduit is transmitted through the membrane to the fluid within the armature chamber so that the armature does not need to counteract force applied to the membrane by the conduit fluid's pressure. |
| US08505570B2 |
Mobile crane with hose guide
A mobile crane has at least two crane booms which are connected together by a joint such that the angular position with respect to each other can be adjusted. At least one hose between the crane booms, and the hose is exposed in the region of the joint in at least one angular position of the crane booms. At least one flexurally elastic sheet is connected with the at least one hose or covers it at least in the exposed region and can flex when the angular position of the at least two crane booms is changed. The at least one flexurally elastic sheet can be moved into or respectively out of one of the crane booms upon a change in the angular position of the crane booms. |
| US08505568B2 |
Nuclear grade air accumulation, indication and venting device
A device for accumulating, isolating, indicating and venting accumulated gas in a fluid system pipe includes a main pipe fitting affixed to a system pipe in which a hole has been drilled. A stand pipe attached to the pipe fitting houses a magnetic float. A magnetic-float level indicator exterior to the pipe and responsive to the magnetic float indicates the magnetic float's level. A valve attached to the stand pipe above the magnetic float allows controlled ventilation of the gas in the standpipe and thus in the piping system. Gas from the system pipe accumulates in the standpipe, removed from the primary fluid flow path of the system pipe. In the standpipe, as the liquid/gas interface drops, the float drops to a pre-determined level, at which point the user vents the gas from the piping system, causing the magnetic float to rise to a level indicating that gas is again at acceptable levels in the piping system. |
| US08505564B2 |
Automatic folding/unfolding umbrella
An automatic folding/unfolding umbrella includes a main rod, umbrella ribs for supporting a canopy, a slide element, and a handle. The umbrella ribs are pivotally installed at the tip of the main rod, and primary link rods are pivotally installed under the tip of the main rod. A secondary link rod is pivotally coupled between each corresponding umbrella rib and each primary link rod. The slide element is installed on the main rod. A handle installed at a bottom end of the main rod includes a link mechanism. The main rod includes a link element and a link mechanism coupled to the slide element. Elastically stretchable elements couple the slide element with the primary link rod. The link mechanism is driven by the link element to slide the slide element. The elastically stretchable elements are pulled to drive the primary link rods to unfold or fold the umbrella ribs. |
| US08505563B2 |
Wash-target holder, and wash-target holding apparatus, washing apparatus and method for washing wash-target using the same
It is to improve the washing efficiency of the wash-target and the cleanness of the washing. There is provided a wash-target holder that is soaked in a wash tank by holding at least one wash-target, which comprises a tray for placing the wash-target, wherein a suction hole is provided at a wash-target placing area of the tray, which is opened through the tray for sucking the wash-target from an opposite side of the wash-target placing area. |
| US08505561B2 |
Apparatus for cleaning bulk material
Embodiments of the invention relate to an apparatus for cleaning bulk material, comprising a container for receiving the bulk material, a filling opening which is arranged in an upper region of the container, at least one stirring device which is arranged in the interior of the container and such that it can rotate with respect to the container, and at least one discharge device via which the bulk material can be removed from the container, wherein the discharge device is arranged below the filling opening. According to the embodiments of the invention, at least one feed is provided, via which a cleaning liquid can be introduced into the container, wherein the feed is arranged above the discharge device. |
| US08505560B2 |
Apparatus and method of removing water-soluble support material from one or more rapid prototype parts
A support removal apparatus is disclosed for removing water-soluble support material from rapid prototype parts, substantially comprising a retention tank for holding an aqueous cleaning solution; a box manifold hydraulically coupled to the retention tank and equipped with nozzle heads in hydraulic communication with a pump's discharge; a heat chamber for housing a heating element to heat the aqueous cleaning solution to a predetermined temperature range; a drain box hydraulically coupled to the retention tank and a pump's intake to convey the aqueous cleaning solution into and through the box manifold; a thermocouple for maintaining the temperature within an optimal range; a level indicator for measuring the solution level in the retention tank for safe operability of the pump and heating element; a cabinet for housing select components of the support removal apparatus and having an integral work platform, accessible compartments, and a localized water supply; and a microprocessor having communicative capabilities for making minute adjustments to the heating element via feedback from the thermocouple and controlling operation of the pump and heating element for a pre-set time interval. |
| US08505558B2 |
Combination toothpick and mint dispenser
A combination toothpick and mint dispenser. On a bottom end of the dispenser is a toothpick. On a top end (opposite the bottom end) is a chamber which is used to hold solid mints or liquid refreshment (such as mouthwash). In an embodiment, a shaft connecting the chamber to the toothpick can be hollow, thereby allowing liquid refreshment to pass from the chamber through a bottom of the shaft and out of the dispenser. |
| US08505550B2 |
Hair grooming tool
A hair grooming tool that is comprised of a housing having a pick extending therefrom and a light source cartridge housed therein. The housing is attached to a finger hair stabilizer. A user inserts one of his or her fingers in the finger hair stabilizer when the hair grooming tool is used. |
| US08505549B2 |
Method for smoking a hand-rolled cigarette
The present invention is a holder and method for using a holder that works with a hand rolled cigarette. A hollow tubular member is utilized having a first end that the user breathes from, and a second end that holds the hand-rolled cigarette. The cigarette is tightly rolled about an elongate steel rod or other stiff member having a diameter that can pass through the hollow tubular member, such that the rod protrudes from the cigarette far enough to be easily grasped by the user. The user inserts the rod through the holder until it passes out the first end, thereby wedging the attached cigarette into the second end of the holder. The second end of the holder preferably has internal threads, and the rod is twisted by the user to further engage the threads by the cigarette end to reliably affix the cigarette to the holder. The rod is then removed, leaving the cigarette firmly in the holder. |
| US08505541B2 |
Therapeutic and protective dental device useful as an intra-oral delivery system
A dental device has a U-shaped carrier with at least one channel for embracing an arch of teeth. The carrier has recessed insets in the channel. Discrete inserts carrying a beneficial agent can fit into the insets and release the agent gradually. The device may be used in a therapeutic application and as an athletic mouthguard. Temporary blanks may be initially fitted in the insets while a portion of the mouthguard is softened before an arch of teeth is pressed into the channel to make a custom impression. The inserts possess different physical properties than the carrier and may be positioned and shaped to mechanically buffer teeth of the arch from mechanical shocks as well as release beneficial agents. The inserts may be replaced or refreshed to maintain the beneficial agent. A dental device having a core carrying a beneficial agent inside a liquid-permeable shell functions as an infant's teething device. |
| US08505538B2 |
Headgear
A headgear for securing and positioning a mask suitable for the treatment of sleep disordered breathing is constructed from a composite including polyurethane foam. It includes a back portion with upper and lower straps connected to the back portion. The straps have relatively narrow strap ends the lower straps are displaced downward with respect to the back portion. A quick release mechanism near the front of the face attaches the headgear to the mask. Additional components can be attached to the straps to alter their elasticity and stiffness. |
| US08505535B2 |
Mask system
A mask system for treating sleep disordered breathing, comprising headgear, a shell/cushion including a channel adjacent a front aperture, a frame, an elbow including at least one undercut on a proximal end, a retaining ring including a rear flange adapted to be retainably insertable in the channel of the shell/cushion, and a front flange adapted to retainably engage with the at least one undercut of the elbow. |
| US08505525B2 |
Compressed gas gun having gas governor
A paintball marker has an inline cylinder that includes a gas governor that reduces gas flow from a compressed gas source to a valve area when the bolt is in a firing position; this increases efficiency in the marker because only the required air is used to fire the paintball. This bolt operates independent of the valve pin, which increases cycle speed and enables the governor to open and close at an optimum time in the firing cycle. Further, when the bolt/piston is recocking, the gap between the valve pin and governor valve pin enables low pressure gas driving the piston to start pressurizing the cylinder and driving the piston rearwards without resistance from the high pressure gas. The marker also allows a user to remove the inline cylinder without tools, and provides a convenient carrying handle for holding the paintball marker, which is commonly called a “snatch grip.” |
| US08505523B1 |
Bow press with enhanced safety features
An improved archery bow press used to safely relieve tension in the bow string of a short limbed compound archery bow. Slidable brackets are retained to a horizontal beam and retain pivot arms to the beam. Brackets slidable along each of the pivot arms may be locked in place. Each pivot arm includes a bearing member which abuts a limb of a compound bow. A jack is mounted to the beam to raise and lower link members connected to the pivot arms. The link members are adjustable in length. Markings are provided on the adjustable members so that adjustments to those elements can be made based on data in a table correlating settings for specific compound bows. Safety latches lock the bow limbs to the slidable brackets. A method for presetting the press is provided. |
| US08505522B2 |
PCV valve
A PCV valve includes a cover of which an inlet is formed thereto, a body connected to the cover to form a hydraulic path therein and the body of which an outlet is formed thereto, a valve body including a valve head and disposed within the hydraulic path for the valve head to selectively block the inlet and an elastic portion which contacts the valve head and elastically supports the valve body within the hydraulic path, wherein a valve head gas groove is formed to a surface of the valve head that contacts the elastic portion. |
| US08505521B2 |
Breather apparatus for engine
This breather apparatus has a rotation separator that is fastened to a camshaft, and that rotation separator has a base plate section and a plurality of protruding plates that extend from the base plate section. Moreover, a separator housing is provided in the cylinder head, and comprises an air intake on one end, and an exhaust outlet on the other end. Furthermore, a reed valve that opens and closes by the change in pressure inside a cam chamber is provided in the air intake. Blowby gas that is guided to the cam chamber hits against the protruding plates when passing in the radial direction of the rotation separator, and oil mist is captured by those protruding plates. Continuing, the blowby gas is guided from the cam chamber into the separator housing via the reed valve. When passing through the reed valve, the flow rate of the blowby gas changes, so oil mist is effectively captured by the inner wall surface of the separator housing. |
| US08505520B2 |
Engine assembly including positive crankcase ventilation with oil surge protection
An engine assembly includes an engine structure, an intake air assembly and a crankcase ventilation line assembly. The engine structure defines a cylinder bore, an intake port in communication with the cylinder bore, and a crankcase. The air intake assembly is in communication with the intake port. The crankcase ventilation line assembly includes a fresh air line and an oil surge protection device. The fresh air line is in communication with the crankcase and the air intake assembly and provides fresh air to the crankcase. The oil surge protection device is in communication with the fresh air line and defines an oil obstruction inhibiting oil flow to the air intake assembly while allowing air flow between the crankcase and the air intake assembly. |
| US08505519B2 |
PCV anti-freezing apparatus for two-cylinder engine
A PCV anti-freezing apparatus for two-cylinder engine may include a PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) nipple connected to an intake manifold of a two-cylinder engine, and an oil separator formed within the PCV nipple. |
| US08505518B2 |
Method for operating an internal combustion engine
In a method for operating an internal combustion engine, a crankcase of the internal combustion engine has a vent into the intake section of the internal combustion engine, and upon outgassing of fuel out of engine oil present in the crankcase, the operating point of the internal combustion engine is modified so that the air-fuel ratio does not fall below a definable value. |
| US08505517B2 |
Method for reintroducing exhaust gas to the intake of an internal-combustion engine and engine using same
The present invention relates to a method for reintroducing exhaust gas to the intake of an internal-combustion engine wherein, during the engine exhaust phase, part of the exhaust qas contained in combustion chamber (60) of cylinder (10) of the engine is fed, for an operating range of this engine, into a first fluid circulation circuit (C1) and the other part of said gas is discharged into an exhaust circuit. According to the invention, the method consists: during the engine intake phase, in cooling the exhaust qas fed into fluid circulation circuit (C1), in mixing the cooled recirculated exhaust qas with fresh supply air (AF) coming from engine supply circuit (44), in feeding the mixture of recirculated exhaust gas and of supply air into a second fluid circulation circuit (C2), and in cooling said mixture fed into second circuit (C2) prior to feeding it into combustion chamber (60). |
| US08505516B2 |
Fuel injector for injection ignition engines
The present invention provides an injector-ignition fuel injector for an internal combustion engine, comprising an input fuel metering system for dispensing a fuel charge into a pressurizing chamber, a pressurization ram system including a pressurization ram for compressing the fuel charge within the pressurizing chamber, wherein the fuel charge is heated in the pressurization chamber in the presence of a catalyst, and an injector nozzle for injecting the fuel charge into a combustion chamber of the internal combustion engine. |
| US08505515B2 |
Hydraulic connection of injector to a pressure source
An internal combustion engine with a fuel injection system is provided. The injection system includes a source of pressurized fuel positioned outside an oil-wetted space of an engine and a fuel injector positioned within the space. An engine component that is a part of an engine system other than the fuel injection system is attached to the engine outside the oil-wetted space by a fastener. The fastener is provided with an internal passage forming part of a hydraulic communication between the source of pressurized fuel and the injector. |
| US08505514B2 |
Fluid injector with auxiliary filling orifice
A common rail single fluid injection system including fuel injectors with the ability to produce multiple injection rate shapes. This is accomplished by including auxiliary filling orifices which selectively provide pressurized fluid to the check needle control chamber during injection events. In so doing, the speed and movement of the check needle is manipulated and differing injection rates may be achieved. |
| US08505513B2 |
Fuel injection method for a direct-injection auto-ignition internal-combustion engine
The present invention is a fuel injection method for a direct-injection internal-combustion engine, preferably of diesel type, comprising a cylinder (10) closed by a cylinder head (16), a piston (12) comprising a bowl (18), and a fuel injector (48). The method feeds the fuel into a bowl coated with a thermal insulation coating in at least two successive injections in quick succession to achieve low-temperature combustion of the fuel mixture. |
| US08505496B2 |
Method for burning coal using oxygen in a recycled flue gas stream for carbon dioxide capture
A method of introducing oxygen into a boiler system for combustion with a prepared fuel in a furnace combustion chamber comprises providing a plurality of swirl-inducing elements to the air stream delivery lines, and a plurality of oxygen delivery jets adjacent the intake region and substantially surrounding the air stream delivery lines; igniting the fuel gas to create a flame; and delivering a stream of oxygen through the jets tangentially to the flame envelope to substantially shape and stabilize a swirling flow field for the flame, the oxygen concentration in the flame envelope gradually increasing towards an outer periphery of the flame envelope. A boiler system for using the method can be a new system or a retrofit to an existing system. The method and system provide advantages in reduced environmental impact and increased efficiency while addressing the safety factors involved in introducing oxygen to boiler systems. |
| US08505494B2 |
Method and device for desensitizing an animal to an anxiety inducing sound
Described is a counter-conditioning device and method for desensitizing an animal to an anxiety inducing sound and for minimizing a user's required involvement in such desensitization. The device and method are for automatically conditioning an animal that exhibits anxiety in response to the occurrence of a particular sound such that the animal learns to anticipate a treat upon the occurrence of the sound. |
| US08505493B2 |
Livestock insect-removal systems and related methods
Livestock insect removal systems and related methods are disclosed. According to one aspect, a system can comprise a structure defining a pathway for passage of livestock. The system can also comprise a duct including first and second ends defining first and second openings, respectively. The first opening is positioned along the pathway such that the livestock moving through the pathway passes near the first opening. Further, the system comprises a vacuum device connected to the second opening and configured to draw air through the duct and away from an area surrounding the first opening such that one or more insects are displaced from the livestock or an area surrounding the livestock when the livestock passes near the first opening. The displaced insects can be drawn into the duct for placement in an insect trap. |
| US08505492B2 |
Vibratory hair grooming tool
A hair grooming tool including a housing defining a cavity and including a grooming end, a vibratory motor assembly positioned within the cavity and configured to vibrate the housing, and a pet-engaging member coupled to the housing at the grooming end. Vibration of the housing enables constant motion of the hair tool and movement of the pet-engaging member as the pet-engaging member is pulled through hair to remove loose hair without cutting the hair. |
| US08505483B2 |
Gripper, a milking robot and a milking arrangement
A milking arrangement in includes a milking robot with a gripper (10). The robot includes a base, a link arrangement attached to the base and rotatable around a base axis via a base joint. The gripper (10) has a proximal end and a distal end and is attached to the link arrangement at the proximal end. The gripper has an extension plane and a longitudinal center axis (x4) extending in the extension plane through the proximal end and the distal end. The longitudinal center axis divides the gripper in a primary side (10a) and a secondary side (10b). The gripper has a plurality of separate gripping recesses (11-14), each being configured to grip a respective teatcup. The gripping recesses are asymmetrically positioned with respect to the longitudinal center axis. |
| US08505482B2 |
Method and arrangement for controlling the milking by a milking machine
A method for controlling the milking by a milking machine includes, during an initial phase of the milking, increasing a milking vacuum and/or a maximum pulsation vacuum for the milking gradually from a first selected vacuum level (1L) towards a second selected vacuum level (2L) to thereby improve teat stimulation and decreasing the risk of a second milk letdown. When a second milk letdown (2ML) is detected, the maximum pulsation vacuum is preferably immediately lowered to a third selected vacuum level (3L), and is kept at that third selected vacuum level until a certain milk flow has been established, whereupon the pulsation vacuum level is then again increased gradually until the second selected vacuum level is reached. |
| US08505477B2 |
System for applying hot melt adhesive powder onto a non-metallic object surface
A system for applying hot melt adhesive powder onto a non-metallic object surface comprises a convey belt, a radiation chamber, a spraying chamber and a heating chamber. The convey belt is used to deliver a non-metallic object treated by a cleaning agent and a conductive liquid through the radiation chamber where the surface of the non-metallic objected is irradiated by ultraviolet rays and ozone and then through the spraying chamber where the surface of the non-metallic object is sprayed with charged hot melt adhesive powder, and finally into the heating chamber where the hot melt adhesive powder attached onto the non-metallic object will be melted into a liquid adhesive film ready to be bonded. |
| US08505476B2 |
Coupling
A coupling for coupling a fall (26) to a lifeboat (1) comprising locking portions and a receiving portion constituting a hollow (10) having a open end and an upwardly facing aperture (15). The locking portion (25), hollow (10) and aperture (15) having a form preventing the locking portion (25) from passing through the aperture (15). The coupling further comprises actuators (30, 35, 39) controlled by a controller (40). A string (27) may be provided for easy retrieval of the locking portions upon the retrieval of the lifeboat (1). |
| US08505474B2 |
Electrically conductive metal composite embroidery yarn and embroidered circuit using thereof
The present invention relates to an electrically conductive metal composite embroidery yarn and embroidered circuit using thereof which may be applicable to smart textiles. More particularly, this invention relates to an electrically conductive metal composite embroidery yarn and embroidered circuit for smart textiles which can be used as power supply and signal transmission lines. The present invention provides an embroidered circuit which consists of a metal composite embroidery yarn and a dielectric fabric substrate, wherein the electrically conductive metal composite embroidery yarn is embroidered on the dielectric fabric substrate to form a circuit. |
| US08505472B2 |
Pulverized coal-fired boiler and pulverized coal burning method
A pulverized coal-fired boiler efficiently supplies air to a central part of a furnace and the neighborhood of a furnace wall, thereby promoting mixture with combustion gas, and reducing both NOx and CO.The main after air ports are structured so as to jet air having a large momentum for enabling arrival at the central part of the furnace, and the sub-after air ports are structured so as to jet air having a small momentum to the neighborhood of the wall face of the furnace, and a sectional center of each of the sub-after air ports is within a range from 1 to 5 times of a caliber of the main after air ports from a sectional center of each of the main after air ports. |
| US08505469B2 |
All in one multifunction pallet
A collapsible, reusable and repairable pallet is composed of a plate(s) with penetrative holes and various of grooves. The pallet is composed of a numbers of supporting legs, at least two joint shifts, a plurality of nuts, a number of belts, different types of RFID tags and renewable batteries. The collapsible pallet results the zero space waste in pallet collection, storage and transportation for further application. Any damaged part of the pallet can be replaced with a new part, including the plate(s), the supporting legs, the belts, the joint shifts, the nuts, the RFID tags and the batteries. |
| US08505468B2 |
Substrate accommodating tray
A substrate accommodating tray for accommodating a substrate includes a frame including a pair of first frame portions facing each other and a pair of second frame portions facing each other; a plate-like support element provided in an area surrounded by the frame for supporting the substrate, the support element having a first opening provided between the pair of first frame portions; and at least one support member provided along the first opening between the pair of first frame portions for supporting the support element. The substrate is placed on an upper surface of the plate-like support element. |
| US08505465B2 |
Railway truck
A railway truck is provided comprising first and second wheelsets, each wheelset comprising at least a left and a right wheel adjacent opposite ends of an axle. Each axle is supported for rotation about an axle axis by a respective bearing adjacent the left and right wheels. A first frame member extends between a bearing support adjacent the left wheel of the first wheelset and a bearing support adjacent the right wheel of the second wheelset. A second frame member extends between a bearing support adjacent the left wheel of the second wheelset and a bearing support adjacent the right wheel of the first wheelset. The first and second frame members are free to move without interference from each other to cause the truck to steer in response to a change in a rolling direction of either of the first and second wheelsets. |
| US08505464B2 |
Control strategy for providing regenerative electrical power to trolley line in trolley capable mining truck
A trolley capable mining truck includes a pantograph supported on a machine frame for electrically connecting the truck with an overhead trolley line. A power system includes an onboard electrical power source providing electrical power to electric drive propulsion motors along a first electrical path in a first configuration of the power system. The pantograph provides electrical power from the overhead trolley line to the electric drive propulsion motors along a second electrical path, which includes a transient damping reactor, in a second configuration of the power system. The power system also includes a third configuration in which, during a braking mode of the trolley capable mining truck, the electric drive propulsion motors provide regenerative electrical power to the overhead trolley line through the pantograph along a third electrical path including a regenerative power converter, wherein the regenerative power converter includes the transient damping reactor. |
| US08505462B2 |
Binary track safety traverse system reconfigurable to provide safe trajectories over a greater range of inclinations
The present invention is related to the field of mechanical engineering and describes an automatically adjustable system of traverse rails with multiple characteristics that extend the useful life of the sustain by a minimum factor of four while providing redundant security backup to the rails allowing human passengers to move from one place to another in and easy and safe manner with a minimum of noise and vibration while providing the owner of the system benefits of lower maintenance cost and less exposure to financial risk. Also the system can be installed in a multitude of natural places without the need to cut or damage the environment. Using the same components this system offers other configuration options to increase the possibilities of installing a system with desirable characteristics over a greater number of inclinations. Combining the various components starting with a smooth rail as in FIG. 1 with the self-equalizing system FIG. 3 for a maximum conservation of energy to maximum breaking rail with the skeleton braid in FIG. 2 with the maximum braking security system of in FIG. 4. |
| US08505458B1 |
Venting cap system
A venting cap system includes a first open-ended sleeve and a second open-ended sleeve. The first open-ended sleeve is made from a first material that melts at a selected temperature. The first open-ended sleeve has an internal region commencing at a first end and an externally-threaded region commencing at a second end. The second open-ended sleeve is made from a second material that does not melt at the selected temperature. The second open-ended sleeve is coaxially fitted in the first open-ended sleeve. The second open-ended sleeve includes a first end that is flush with the first end of the first open-ended sleeve. The second open-ended sleeve partially overlaps part of the externally-threaded region. The coefficients of linear expansion of the first material and the second material are about equal. |
| US08505456B2 |
Cartridge ammunition having a bursting device as a connection between projectile and propulsion
A cartridge ammunition, in particular grenade ammunition, is provided that includes a projectile and a propellant charge case for accommodating the projectile and a propulsion, having a high pressure chamber and a low pressure champer, wherein the projectile and the propellant charge case are fastened to one another by way of a connection. The connection includes a membrane having at least one target braking point/opening point, which opens at a predetermined pressure in the high pressure chamber of the propulsion. |
| US08505453B2 |
Printing press, folder, and methods of operation
Systems and methods for allowing existing rotary printing press units to produce smaller pages at a faster rate of speed without having to replace the press unit. Specifically, the systems and methods relate to retrofitting an existing press unit to produce three pages of material in each full rotation instead of the traditional two pages. |
| US08505452B2 |
Printing press including plate support member and plate loading module
A printing plate module is disclosed. The module comprises a printing plate support member (3) having means to locate printing plates (4) in a predetermined position thereon and, engagement means (8) on the plate support member for the releasable engagement of the printing plate support member (3) with a printing press during a plate loading operation to locate printing plates (4) located on the plate support member (3) in a predetermined position relative to a plate cylinder (7) of the press. The invention also discloses a printing apparatus and, a method of loading printing plates onto a plate cylinder of a printing unit. |
| US08505450B2 |
Printing unit, printing press and method of producing labels or self-adhesive labels in a printing press
A compact printing unit includes a plate cylinder, an impression cylinder, and an ink applicator roller in a printing press, in particular a label printing press. In the printing unit, the plate cylinder is disengageable from cylinders contacting the plate cylinder for the purpose of format variation. The plate cylinder is pivotable about the impression cylinder about a pivot axis which is parallel to the axis of rotation of the impression cylinder and a distance between the axes of rotation of the plate cylinder and the impression cylinder is variable. A printing press and a method of producing labels or self-adhesive labels in a printing press are also provided. |
| US08505444B2 |
Marshmallow roaster
A marshmallow roasting unit is provided that comprises an enclosure having a roasting chamber and a side defining an enclosure opening below the roasting chamber, a skewer disposed in the roasting chamber and configured to hold a marshmallow, a heating element disposed relative to the skewer in the roasting chamber, and a removable tray configured to be inserted into the enclosure opening and hold a cracker in the enclosure under the roasting chamber. The heating element is disposed a predetermined range from the skewer such that the heating element is effective to roast the marshmallow on the skewer until the marshmallow becomes pliable and falls on to the cracker or contents disposed on the cracker held on the removable tray. |
| US08505436B2 |
Pneumatic actuator with a position control and position adjustment
A proportional actuator valve (110) adapted for position control and position adjustment is provided. The proportional actuator valve (110) includes a valve housing (112) having at least two chambers (324, 325). The chambers are separated by one or more sealing members (322). A valve slider (113) is provided that is movable in the valve housing (112). One or more grooves (329) are formed in the valve slider (113). The one or more grooves (329) pneumatically communicate with the two chambers (324, 325) of the valve housing (112). One or more bores (327, 328) are also formed in the valve slider (113). The one or more bores (327, 328) pneumatically communicate with the one or more grooves (329). Movement of the valve slider (113) relative to the valve housing (112) provides a pneumatic valve action. |
| US08505435B2 |
Travel limiting element in a brake servo device and brake servo device
The invention relates to a travel limiting element in a brake booster device for a motor vehicle brake system, comprising a pair of longitudinal legs which are connected together via at least one transverse leg, wherein the travel limiting element can be brought into contact with a stop of the brake booster device. In favor of a simple design and cost-effective production, the travel limiting element comprises two dimensionally stable reinforcement braces which extend along the longitudinal legs, and the transverse leg is made of a damping material which surrounds the two longitudinal legs at least in sections. |
| US08505431B2 |
Firearm suppressor with crossbars and inserts
A firearm noise suppressor having an internal base frame member with a plurality of inserts mounted thereto. In one form the suppressor is provided with a slip chamber allowing gas to be forwarded to a longitudinally forward chamber for pre-compression of gas therein. |
| US08505430B2 |
Systems and devices for remotely operated unmanned aerial vehicle report-suppressing launcher with portable RF transparent launch tube
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) launch tube that comprises a tethered sabot configured to engage a UAV within a launcher volume defined by an inner wall, the tethered sabot dimensioned to provide a pressure seal at the inner wall and tethered to the inner wall, and wherein the tethered sabot is hollow having an open end oriented toward a high pressure volume and a tether attached within a hollow of the sabot and attached to the inner wall retaining the high pressure volume or attach to the inner base wall. A system comprising a communication node and a launcher comprising an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) in a pre-launch state configured to receive and respond to command inputs from the communication node. |
| US08505427B2 |
Ordnance neutralization method and device using energetic compounds
This invention generally relates to a method and apparatus to neutralize ordnance, more specifically improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and unexploded ordnance (UXOs). The current invention provides a simple method to neutralize the ordnance by taking advantage of a new class of energetic materials that includes nano-thermites, binary thermites and additionally powdered thermites. In the invention, a projectile is loaded with the new class of energetic materials and fired into the ordnance. The impact causes the energetic materials to react in such a fashion that the explosive compound or other material within the IED or UXO is burned in a self-propagating mode without exploding. Hence, the ordnance is neutralized. |
| US08505426B2 |
Multiple actuating-force shearing machine
A method, and an apparatus, for operating a hydraulic shearing machine. For cutting a shearing-movement of at least one shear blade which is curved, starting from a starting-position under application of an overall actuating-force and for resetting of the shear blades which were moved for cutting to their starting-position after accomplishment of the shearing-movement, a reset-movement under application of an overall reset-force. The shearing-movement and the reset-movement are accomplished by a hydraulic actuating-mechanism comprising hydraulic cylinders, wherein the overall actuating-force and the overall reset-force being applied to the moved shear blades by at least one hydraulic cylinder of the actuating-mechanism. The magnitude of the overall actuating-force is adjustable by switching one or several hydraulic cylinders of the actuating-mechanism in and out of operation-mode. The method proposes that the positions of the curved shear blade are controlled by a control system by regulating the flow of hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic cylinders according to setpoints for a shear blade position versus time function and the overall actuating-force and overall reset-force requirements. |
| US08505425B2 |
Blind cutting machine
An improved blind cutting machine has a work surface on which a blind to be cut is placed and at least one end stop against which an end of the blind to be cut rests prior to being cut by a cutting mechanism. An actuator is connected to the end stop. The actuator moves the end stop relative to the work surface and the cutting mechanism in response to signals from a controller. An operator enters information about the blind to be cut and the dimensions of an opening over which the blind to be cut is to be mounted into the controller. The controller then calculates the location where the end stop should be so that a sufficient amount of material can be trimmed from an end of the blind to be cut to enable the blind to fit the opening. Then the controller sends a signal to the actuator that causes the actuator to move the end stop to that location. In alternative embodiments the end stop is fixed and the actuator moves the cutting mechanism or a work surface on which the blind to be cut has been placed. |
| US08505422B2 |
Cutting machine for blinds
In a cutting machine for cutting down venetian blinds a headrail cutter and a bottom rail cutter are provided which move along a horizontal axis. After the headrail and bottom rail are trimmed a slat cutter moves in a vertical axis, up or down to cut the slats. The cutting machine enables one to cut down a venetian blind while the opposite end of the blind remains in the packing box. Preferably, a spacer or collar is provided on the blind prior to packaging so that the headrail, window covering material and bottom rail will be spaced apart from one another a desired amount. That spacing should be the same spacing as the openings in the cutting machine so that when one end of the blind is removed from the package that end of the blind can be readily inserted into the cutting mechanism. |
| US08505420B2 |
Magnetized hand tools
The magnetized hand tools each include a sleeve of resilient material disposed over each handle or the base of the tool. One or more magnets are installed between the tool handle(s) and the resilient grip(s) covering the handle(s). Alternatively, the tool may have one or more magnets installed in the base, i.e., the drive attachment end, of a socket, with a sleeve being applied over the base of the socket to retain the magnet(s). The socket sleeve has a passage therethrough for the conventional square drive of the ratchet or other tool used to drive the socket. The magnets are recessed into the base of the socket to allow the overlying sleeve portion to lie immediately adjacent to the surface of the socket base, and may be inset into recesses in the tool handles and/or positively attached thereto for more positive retention. |
| US08505416B1 |
Valve wrench safety system
A valve wrench safety system used to prevent a valve wrench from slipping off a valve, having a housing with an opening in the top side where a lock slide bar is sized to fit and slide in and out of a chamber through the opening using a sliding slot on a lever-control-side, wherein the housing is attached to a rod region of a valve wrench using arms attaching to and extending from the housing to a plate by sandwiching the wrench rod region between the front surface of the housing and the plate. |
| US08505415B2 |
Power wrench with swivelling gear casing
A power wrench including a housing, a rotation motor, a reduction gearing connecting the motor to an output shaft, and a separate gearing casing which is rotatively and detachably mounted on the housing and supporting the output shaft. The reduction gearing is divided into a first gearing stage located in the housing and a second gearing stage located in the separate gearing casing. The first gearing stage and the second gearing stage are interconnected via an intermediate spindle, and the motor is connected to the first gearing stage via a hollow drive shaft surrounding the intermediate spindle and an angle gear. A torque sensor is associated with the first gearing stage in the form of strain gauges mounted on an elastically deformable sleeve connecting a ring gear of the first gearing stage to the housing. |
| US08505413B2 |
Hydraulic power output unit and hydraulic hybrid drive system including same
A hydraulic power output unit can be used in a hydraulic hybrid drive system for propelling a vehicle. The hydraulic power output unit includes a housing having an input shaft that extends within the housing and is adapted to be rotatably driven by a source of rotational power. A hydraulic pump is rotatably driven by the input driveshaft to pump hydraulic fluid. A vibration damper is provided within the housing for dampening vibrations in the input shaft. |
| US08505411B2 |
Active balancing system powered by light
An active balancing system for rotating machinery is provided which is light weight, solid state and powered by radiant energy. One or more balance rings coupled to the rotating machinery each have balancing elements which are moved to a selected position by actuators whose operation is controlled according to measured vibration resulting from imbalance of the machinery. The actuators are powered by an electrical energy generating device, such as a photo cell or a photovoltaic element, which is coupled to the machinery and located across an air gap from a source of radiant energy such as an array of light emitting diodes. |
| US08505408B2 |
Adjustable steering column assembly
An adjustable steering column assembly includes a fixed rack secured to a first portion and a moving rack secured to a second portion, which are releasably engaged by a clamp mechanism to permit relative movement therebetween. The fixed rack comprises two rows of teeth spaced apart from one another and extending towards. The moving rack also comprises two rows of teeth which extend away from each other. A clamp engaging means moves the moving rack into and out of engagement with the fixed rack. The teeth on the two racks are offset relative to one another. The mechanism is further arranged so that when if a tooth on tooth event occurs the fixed rack interacts with the moving rack to cause the moving rack to move sideways to permit the teeth to become inter-engaged when the mechanism finally reaches the locked position. |
| US08505405B2 |
Ball screw apparatus and electric power steering apparatus
The ball screw apparatus includes a returning way L2 by mounting a circulating member 15 in mounted holes 16, 17 formed in the ball screw nut 13. The ball screw nut 13 includes a base portion 51 and an expanding portion 52. In the base portion 50 a distance from an axis center O1 of the rack shaft 3 to a bottom portion 14a of the nut side screw groove 14 is constant, and in the expanding portion 52 the distance is larger than that of the base portion 51. The expanding portion 52 includes a connecting area 34. |
| US08505403B2 |
Gear shifting actuator and method of shifting gear ratios
A gear shifting device for shifting gears of a transmission comprises: at least one guide rail each extending in a longitudinal axis thereof; a plurality of shift effecting members (e.g., shift forks or the like) configured to move a plurality of corresponding sliding sleeves coupled to the guide rail for shifting gears upon actuation of a shift actuator, the shift effecting members each having a terminal end portion with a finger receiving opening formed therein, the finger receiving opening extending in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the guide rail; and a shift shaft extending in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the guide rail, the shift shaft having a shift finger coupled thereto. The shift shaft is rotatable to pivotally position the shift finger at locations aligned with the finger receiving openings of the shift effecting members, and is also displaceable in the longitudinal direction in the finger receiving openings to move the shift effecting members to effect a gear shifting operation. Methods of shifting gears with a gear shifting device are also disclosed. |
| US08505401B2 |
Seven speed dual clutch transmission with four axes of rotation
A transmission is connectable to an input member and includes an output gear, first and second shaft members, first and second countershaft members, a reverse shaft, a plurality of co-planar gear sets, and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. The torque transmitting devices include a plurality of synchronizer assemblies and a dual clutch assembly. The transmission is operable to provide at least one reverse speed ratio and a plurality of forward speed ratios between the input member and the output member. |
| US08505400B2 |
Dual clutch five speed transmission
A transmission includes an input member, an output member, first and second shafts, a countershaft, a plurality of co-planar gear sets, and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. The torque transmitting devices include a plurality of synchronizer assemblies and a dual clutch assembly. The transmission is operable to provide at least one reverse speed ratio and a plurality of forward speed ratios between the input member and the output member. |
| US08505398B2 |
Dissolution properties measurement system using piezoelectric sensor
There is provided a dissolution properties measurement system using a piezoelectric sensor, capable of continuously measuring dissolution properties of a substrate in an aqueous solution by using the piezoelectric sensor. The dissolution properties measurement system includes: a specimen receiving unit including a chamber receiving a specimen therein; a mass measuring unit connected with the specimen to measure a mass change of the specimen in real time; and a dissolution properties measuring unit measuring a dissolution properties of the specimen on the basis of the value measured by the mass measuring unit. |
| US08505395B2 |
Dilution system test apparatus with added capability and method of operating same
A partial dilution exhaust sampling system has an expanded ability to simultaneously perform two different evaluations on exhaust from a power source. Beyond testing for particulate matter production, the system may simultaneously evaluate exhaust for undesirable gaseous emissions such as NOx and carbon dioxide and/or concurrently evaluate particle size and distribution in the exhaust sample. After extracting sample flow from the exhaust stream of the power source and adding diluent to the sample flow, the diluted sample flow is divided into a first portion flow and a second portion flow. Depending upon whether the additional exhaust evaluation device is in parallel with the particulate measurement gravimetric filter or in series with the filter, a dilution flow actuator and/or an exit actuator may be adjusted to account for a fraction of diluted sample flow directed to the auxiliary exhaust evaluation device. |
| US08505394B2 |
Strain measurement of rotating components
A strain sensor apparatus for a rotatable shaft including a radiation emitter/receiver, a vibration element attached to the shaft and a radiation-reflective annulus surrounding the shaft and vibration element. |
| US08505391B1 |
Flange mounted ultrasonic flowmeter
An ultrasonic transducer includes a piezoelectric element that is attached to a sonic lens, a support ring that holds the piezoelectric element, a flange, and a spoke. One end of the spoke is connected to the support ring and an opposing end of the spoke is connected to an inner surface of the flange. The sonic lens may be plastic film that coats the piezoelectric element. |
| US08505390B2 |
High-capacity wide-range variable rotational rate vane testing device
System and method for measuring shear strength and viscosity of sediments that extends both the maximum rotational rate attainable and the maximum torque sustainable, and includes a high data acquisition rate and data storage. Also a method of making an apparatus, and method of using the apparatus for accurately measuring, peak, evolution, and residual values of the undrained shear strength, yield, and viscous and plastic flow characteristics of cohesive sediments at various pre-set and variable values of the rotational velocity of a vane sensor. |
| US08505388B2 |
Apparatus and method for simulating lifetime of and/or stress experienced by a rotor blade and rotor disc fixture
An apparatus for simulating stresses experienced by a rotor blade root in a complementary disc fixture, especially in gas turbine engines. The apparatus comprises a mounting member for receiving a blade speciman having a root. The mounting member has an aperture for receiving the root of the blade specimen, and blade contacting regions on either side of said aperture for holding said blade specimen in said aperture. The apparatus further comprises an actuator for applying a tension load to said blade specimen. The blade contacting regions are undercut such that there is a gap between said blade contacting regions and a main body of said mounting member, whereby the blade contacting regions are able to deflect outward into said gap when a tension load is applied to the blade specimen. |
| US08505386B2 |
Pressure sensor device
A pressure sensor device comprises a casing (2a, 3 a) defining a chamber (20) and an inlet passage (14a, 14b) of the chamber. Accommodated in the chamber (20) is a pressure sensor (17) having a sensor body with a cavity and a membrane capable of deformation under pressure action of a fluid present in the inlet passage (14a, 14b). The device further comprises a circuit arrangement (26, 27, 30) to which the pressure sensor (17) is electrically connected, the circuit arrangement including a circuit support at least partially accommodated in the chamber (20). The sensor body is not rigidly associated to the casing (2a, 3 a) and/or to other parts of the device (26, 27, 30, 35), i.e. it is mounted elastically or in a moveable manner with respect to the casing (2a, 3 a) and/or to said other parts (26, 27, 30, 35) inside the chamber (20). |
| US08505384B2 |
Rig for measuring bladed component mistuning
A rig for studying a component has a component support for mounting the component. A speaker applies sound energy to airfoils in the component. A vibrometer studies the effect of the applied sound on the airfoils. At least two of the vibrometer, the component support, and the speaker are rotatable relative to each other. In a separate feature, a vibrometer for studying the effect of sound energy on airfoils in a component is provided with a vision system. The vision system is operable to identify the exact location at which the laser is studying the effect on the airfoil. Methods are also disclosed. |
| US08505379B2 |
Method for producing a sensor system, and sensor system
The invention relates to a method for producing a sensor system for monitoring elements (1), in particular supporting-structure elements, by measurement with at least one sensor (5) in thick-film technology, and with a line (8) for connection to a measurement system, wherein the at least one sensor (5) is comprised of at least one film of an electrically conductive paste (2), and wherein the paste (2) is baked. To create such a method, and such a sensor system, by means of which elements (1) that would not fit into a continuous furnace can be provided with sensors (5) using thick-film technology, it is provided that the at least one sensor (5) is arranged directly on the surface of the element (1) to be monitored by applying the at least one film of paste (2) directly to the surface of the element (1) to be monitored so as to form the at least one sensor (5), and optionally connection lines (8) and a field bus (6), and by baking the same directly on the element (1). |
| US08505378B2 |
Orbital ball flowmeter for gas and fluid
A flow meter has a housing having an inlet, an outlet, and a measuring chamber between the inlet and outlet. The measuring chamber has a diameter larger than that of the inlet. A blade section is located between the inlet and the measuring chamber, and the blade section comprises a cylindrical part near the measuring chamber and having a cylindrical inner wall, an expanding part between the cylindrical part and the inlet, and spiral blades which extend from the expanding part to the housing, for imparting the rotational movement to the fluid when the fluid enters the measuring chamber. A ball is positioned in the measuring chamber such that the rotational movement of the fluid moves the ball in a circular motion around the measuring chamber for measuring the flow of the fluid. |
| US08505374B1 |
Portable on vehicle dynamometer
A portable on vehicle dynamometer (12) has a rigid frame (64), a load shaft (16), and an eddy current brake (24) with a stator (56) connected to the rigid frame (64) and a rotor (54) connected to the load shaft (16). A hub coupling (18) is secured to a first end of the load shaft (16) and connected to the drive shaft. The rigid frame (64) has two outwardly extending support arms (30) for securing in outwardly extending, fixed positions. Two roller assemblies (46) are mounted to a lower end of the rigid frame (64) for multidirectional movement of the dynamometer (12). Preferably the eddy current brake (24) comprises a cylindrically-shaped rotor drum (54) extending exteriorly around the stator (56), and the stator (56) comprises a plurality of stator coils (94) extending exteriorly around the load shaft (16), spaced apart from an interior of the rotor drum (54). |
| US08505373B2 |
Device and method for determining the intertial parameters of a body
The invention relates to a device for determining the inertial parameters of a body, particularly a motor vehicle. Said device comprises a receiving platform (P) on which the body (F10) can be placed. The receiving platform (P) is provided with a central, especially spherical joint (G00) about which the receiving platform (P) can be moved with three degrees of freedom (x, y, z) by means of drive units (Z1, Z2, Z3). The invention further relates to a method for determining the inertial parameters of a body, particularly by means of a device disclosed in one of the preceding claims. In said method, a control system is provided which allows a receiving platform (P) and a body (F10) mounted thereon to be moved about a central pivot (G00) with three degrees of freedom (x, y, z). The forces measured in the joints (G00, G20) and the angles measured in the central joint (G00) are fed to an evaluation process, by means of which the inertial parameters of the body (F10) are determined especially by using laws of mechanics, particularly the principle of angular momentum. |
| US08505365B2 |
Magnetically coded pressure detection apparatus
An apparatus for measuring pressure comprises a housing and an actuator pressure sealed to the housing and having a shaft. The actuator is configured to be in pressure communication with a volume of gas or liquid. Upon a change in pressure, the actuator is displaced at least partially in the axial direction. A sensor detects axial displacement of a magnetically encoded target upon the change in pressure in the volume. A device for measuring pressure in an engine cylinder comprises a valve in pressure communication with an engine cylinder. The valve stem has a magnetic coding located adjacent a sensor. Axial displacement of the stem under cylinder pressure is detected and pressure is obtained. |
| US08505364B2 |
Systems and methods for use in monitoring operation of a rotating component
A system for use in monitoring operation of a rotor assembly is provided. The system includes a plurality of clearance sensors including at least a first clearance sensor configured to measure a distance between the first sensor and a surface of a lockwire tab, and a monitoring unit coupled to the plurality of clearance sensors, the monitoring unit configured to receive measurements from the plurality of clearance sensors, and determine whether a crack exists in the rotor assembly based on the received measurements. |
| US08505362B2 |
Method for pipeline conditioning
Method for dewatering, pressure testing, hydrotreating, suppressing methane hydrate formation and suppressing solution freezing point in pipeline operations have been disclosed, where the solution used in the operations includes an effective amount of a metal formate salt. The metal formate salt solutions have a low viscosity, have a high density, have a low metals corrosivity, are non-volatile, have a low solubility in hydrocarbons, are readily biodegradable, have a low toxicity, are non-hazardous, have a low environmental impact, have a freezing point depression property forming water/formate eutectic point mixtures, and have a water-structuring and water activity modification property. |
| US08505360B2 |
Breath sampling methodology having improved reliability
An improved method of breath sampling, particularly adapted for use in connection with motor vehicle alcohol breath monitoring devices, comprises the sending of a drive signal to a piston pump to draw a breath sample into a sensing chamber, the pump being connected to the sensing chamber. The operational status of the pump is monitored by monitoring the condition of a switch associated with the pump which is adapted to change state when the pump piston is withdrawn into its pump housing as a proper reaction of the pump to its drive signal and return to its original state when the pump piston is no longer withdrawn. The state condition of the of the switch is used to confirm proper pump operation in drawing the breath sample into the chamber; if proper pump operation is confirmed, the breath sample can be accepted for further processing and analysis. |
| US08505359B2 |
System and method for determining a gate position
A system and method for determining the position of a moveable barrier relative to the fully open position and fully closed position. The invention utilizes in a preferred embodiment a geo-magnetic sensor to determine the extent to which the barrier has traveled from reference position of fully open or fully closed to some intermediate point. A multi-axis sensor provides an output which changes during the barrier's excursion relative to each of the respective axes so that direction or tilt may be readily known in between the closed and open positions. Operation of the gate or barrier may be more efficiently controlled when its precise location between open and closed is known. |
| US08505354B2 |
Compensated gas detectors
A compensated gas detector incorporates first and second pellistors combined with first and second resistors and an intervening switch. Control circuits can close the switch for normal gas detection. The switch can be opened to carry out diagnostic measurements. A compensation coefficient can be established in order to compensate outs from the pellistors due to mechanical damage thereto. |
| US08505352B2 |
Method for producing hollow profiles having a longitudinal flange
The invention relates to a method for producing hollow profile-members having a longitudinal flange, wherein a plate which is arranged between the stamp and the first die being preshaped by introducing a stamp into a first die to form an U-shaped profile-member having a first member and a second member, and wherein the U-shaped profile-member being shaped with a second die to form an O-shaped profile-member having a longitudinal flange. In one aspect, the plate is preshaped to form the U-shaped profile-member, a longitudinal flange member portion is shaped in at least the first member and the longitudinal flange member portion is constructed during the shaping of the U-shaped profile-member to form an O-shaped profile-member substantially in a shape-retaining manner to form a portion of the longitudinal flange. |
| US08505350B2 |
Apparatus for threading cans
A threading turret assembly includes a plurality of threading heads. The threading heads comprise first and second threading rollers. The threading head is configured to impart a thread onto a metallic can such that a threaded cap may be screwed onto the can to seal an opening in the can. The turret assembly is configured to rotate such that the plurality of threading heads orbit the centerline of rotation about which the turret rotates. The turret is configured to impart a rotation onto the plurality of threading heads as the threading heads orbit the center of rotation. |
| US08505349B2 |
Method and apparatus for hydro-forming an elongated tubular member
A method of hydro-forming an elongated tubular member that has areas of predicted high strain and areas of predicted low strain. The tubular member is initially deformed into a preliminary preform shape by compression in a preform die. Metal in the areas of predicted low strain is stretched during the preforming process by radially deforming the tube between two halves of the preform die. The preliminary preform is then expanded with internal hydro-forming pressure to form a preformed tube. The preformed tube is then hydro-formed into a final die to form the final shape for the part. The extra metal in the areas of low strain is stretched into the areas of high strain in the final hydro-forming operation. |
| US08505344B2 |
Rotatable lock for a portable electronic device
A rotatable lock for a portable electronic device includes a first casing, a second casing, two interlocking members, an I-shaped engaging member, a driving member, an elastic member and a lock core. The lock core is a depressible tubular lock having a limiting slot adjacent to an end and a key hole on another end. The key hole is an axial slot and has a plurality of protrusions and a positioning slot disposed in an inner wall, and a pivoted sliding rod. The key is a hollow column and has a positioning pin and a plurality of grooves. To unlock the lock, a positioning pin of the key needs to be aligned with the positioning slot of the key hole, and then the groove of the key engages with the protrusion of the key hole of the lock core such that the key is able to be rotated. |
| US08505342B1 |
Bicycle lock structure with dual latch
The present invention relates to a bicycle lock structure with dual latch, which includes a latch seat and a lock body, wherein two parallel latches are set on one side of the latch seat, two inserting holes are set on one side of the lock body for inserting the latches, and at least a bead is drove to wedge into a wedged hole of the latch by a slider inside the lock body to form wedged locking, the lock picking difficulty is increased by such structure, to thereby improve the anti-theft effect. |
| US08505341B2 |
Method for automatically flushing a bulk dispensing system in a cleaning appliance
A household cleaning appliance includes a bulk dispensing system configured to receive a removable cartridge containing multiple doses of treating chemistry and configured to deliver a charge of treating chemistry from the cartridge to a treating chamber and a water supply configured to be selectively coupled to the bulk dispensing system to flush at least a portion of the bulk dispensing system. |
| US08505340B2 |
Fabric treating apparatus
A present invention relates to a fabric treating apparatus including an inside cabinet which forms a treating chamber in which the fabrics treated, and a heating unit for supplying any one between hot wind and steam to the treating chamber, and a driving unit for generating driving power, and a driving unit frame is disposed the upper side of the inside cabinet for fixing the driving unit, and a sealing unit is pressed by the driving unit frame and penetrates the driving unit frame and the inside cabinet. |
| US08505337B2 |
Methods for forming fritted cover sheets and glass packages comprising the same
A method for forming a fritted cover sheet includes providing a substrate and depositing an initial frit bead on the substrate. Thereafter, at least one additional frit bead is deposited on the substrate such that a base of the at least one additional frit bead contacts a base of an adjacent frit bead thereby forming a frit seal on the substrate. |
| US08505336B2 |
AZS refractory composition
A refractory composition includes a first set of components and a colloidal silica binder. The first set of components includes alumina and zirconia. The colloidal silica binder is provided at 5 wt % to 20 wt % of the dry weight of the first set of components. The refractory composition includes 45 wt % to 75 wt % alumina, 15 wt % to 30 wt % zirconia, and 10 wt % to 30 wt % silica. |
| US08505333B2 |
Optimized heavies removal system in an LNG facility
An LNG facility employing an optimized heavies removal system. The optimized heavies removal system can comprise at least one distillation column and at least two separate heat exchangers. The heat exchangers can be operable to heat a liquid stream withdrawn from a distillation column to thereby provide predominantly vapor and/or liquid streams that can be reintroduced into the column. |
| US08505328B2 |
Multiple utility ribbon cable
An elongated polymeric ribbon is mounted to the cabinet of a refrigerator/freezer or the door and at least one electrical conductor is integrally formed in the ribbon, which also integrally includes at least one fluid conduit. In one embodiment, the ribbon is mounted in association with an elongated spine, such that a module can be mounted anywhere along the spine and coupled to the polymeric ribbon for receiving operating utilities therefrom. This system provides the manufacturer with the capability of positioning a module requiring operating utilities at any desired location within a refrigerator/freezer cabinet and/or on the doors of the refrigerator/freezer. The ribbon connector is accessed by connections which allow dealers to customize refrigerators for individual consumers. |
| US08505324B2 |
Independent free cooling system
A free cooling system may include first and second conduits configured to carry first and second fluids, a cooling load configured to transfer heat to the first fluid, thereby causing the first fluid to have a post-loading temperature, a free cooling device configured to transfer heat from the second fluid to atmospheric air, thereby causing the second fluid to have a post-cooling temperature, a heat exchanger configured to facilitate a heat exchange between the first and second fluids of the first and second conduits, thereby causing the first fluid to have a pre-loading temperature and the second fluid to have a pre-cooling temperature, and a fluid flow control device configured to control a first flow rate of the first fluid and a second flow rate of the second fluid, such that the post-cooling temperature is less than the pre-loading temperature by at least a predefined temperature. |
| US08505319B2 |
Method for calculating and adjusting the concentration of absorbing fluid in an absorption air conditioning device, and absorption air conditioning device for implementing said method
The invention relates to an absorption air conditioner that comprises a desorber (100), a condenser, an evaporator and an absorber, wherein the absorbing fluid may consist of lithium bromide. The method comprises the following steps: calculating the concentration of the absorbing fluid solution at the outlet of the desorber (100); and comparing the calculated concentration with a predetermined critical value and, if the calculated concentration gets closer to the predetermined critical value, increasing the charge loss in the duct (20) connecting the desorber (100) to the condenser, which interrupts the condensation in the condenser and results in a pressure increase in the desorber that stops the desorption and in a concentration increase, the charge loss being on the other hand reduced for resuming the desorption when the calculated concentration deviates from the predetermined critical value. The invention can be used in automobiles and absorption air-conditioners. |
| US08505315B2 |
Enhanced integrated operation blender based sterile medical ice slurry production device
A method and device are provided for the preparation of sterile medical ice slurry, for example having ice loadings of greater than approximately 50%. An integrated-operation ice slurry blender-based production and delivery system methods for monitoring cooling capacity of the produced and delivered slurry. All individual medical ice slurry production and delivery steps are integrated into one tightly coupled precisely sequenced and timed system. The novel procedure and equipment is simple to use and makes sterile slurry, which is ready to deliver to patients, for example, in less than 2 minutes after adding predetermined thermally preconditioned ingredient modules to a blender. |
| US08505312B2 |
Liquid natural gas fractionation and regasification plant
LNG vapor from an LNG storage vessel is absorbed using C3 and heavier components provided by a fractionator that receives a mixture of LNG vapors and the C3 and heavier components as fractionator feed. In such configurations, refrigeration content of the LNG liquid from the LNG storage vessel is advantageously used to condense the LNG vapor after separation. Where desired, a portion of the LNG liquid may also be used as fractionator feed to produce LPG as a bottom product. |
| US08505306B2 |
Ceramic combustor liner panel for a gas turbine engine
A combustor assembly includes a support structure and at least one combustor liner panel selectively attached to the support structure. The combustor liner panel includes an uncooled ceramic portion, a cooled ceramic portion and a support that receives the cooled ceramic portion. |
| US08505305B2 |
Diffuser with improved erosion resistance
A diffuser for a centrifugal compressor in a gas turbine engine, the diffuser including a diffuser ring having a series of bores defined therethrough to receive and direct air exiting the compressor, each bore being defined by a respective bore surface including a boride layer protecting the bore surface from erosion damage. |
| US08505304B2 |
Fuel nozzle detachable burner tube with baffle plate assembly
A fuel nozzle for use with a combustion chamber defined within a gas turbine engine and a method for assembling the same are provided. The fuel nozzle includes a swirler assembly and a burner tube that is coupled to a support flange in a detachable manner such that an inner surface of the burner tube circumscribes an outer surface of the swirler assembly during fuel nozzle operation. |
| US08505302B2 |
Multiple tube premixing device
The present application provides a premixer for a combustor. The premixer may include a fuel plenum with a number of fuel tubes and a burner tube with a number of air tubes. The fuel tubes extend about the air tubes. |
| US08505301B2 |
Steam-jet engine
A steam engine in which a liquid and a steam are jetted so that a rotor is turned by the reaction thereof, and the rotor having a well-balanced simple structure. In the steam engine, the rotor 5 having a plurality of bent flow paths 53A to 53D arranged at regular intervals therein is rotatably supported in a closed container 1 filled with the liquid being fitted onto a boss portion 11 of the closed container 1. The boss portion 11 is alternately forming slide-contact portions 11A having a steam feed port and recessed portions 11B. The steam fed into the bent flow path 53 from the steam feed port causes the liquid in the flow path to be jetted outward to rotate the rotor 5. The rotor 5 is of a point-symmetrical shape in cross section free of unbalanced weight, has no moving part, and is simple in structure. When the bent flow path 53 communicates with the recessed portion 11B, the steam remaining in the flow path is cooled and disappears, and the flow path is filled with the liquid. |
| US08505300B2 |
Method and apparatus for combined steam boiler/combuster and gasifier
A method and apparatus for providing a steam boiler/combuster and gasifier that uses a primary dirty fuel, such as waste materials, or high-polluting fossil fuels, and a secondary low-polluting fuel, such as biomass fuels for co-generation of electricity while reducing harmful emissions. The primary fuel is burned in the combuster to create steam in the steam boiler. The steam turns a steam turbine thereby powering a first generator. The dirty exhaust from the combuster is scrubbed by a gasifier. The secondary fuel and oxygen are added to the dirty exhaust in the gasifier creating gas and ash. The gas powers an engine that turns a second generator and releases a cleaner exhaust. |
| US08505297B2 |
Method of operating a vehicle equipped with a pneumatic booster system
An apparatus and method for improving vehicle performance by application of pneumatic boost to vehicle engines, including diesel engines having at least one turbocharger supplying air to the engine, in a manner which increases engine torque output while minimizing the potential for exceed various operating limits to the maximum practicable extent. The vehicle's pneumatic booster system controller implements strategies for shaping the rate of the air injection during a boost event, tailoring the air injection to obtain maximum engine torque output while respecting the operating limits, by controlling the timing, duration, quantity and/or injection pattern during a boost event to achieve a refined distribution of compressed air injection over the course of the boost event to provide desired engine torque output and fuel efficiency while minimizing the potential for exceeding a wide variety of operation limits, regulatory, engineering and passenger comfort limits. |
| US08505295B2 |
Working fluid accumulation device
A reservoir device is provided, which prevents water from flooding in an accumulation tank and improves on-vehicle installation capability. The reservoir device 10 includes a catch tank 13 connected to an airspace “A” formed above an oil surface of working oil accumulated in an accumulation tank 12, which has a bottom surface formed with an external-air communication aperture 32. Liquid entering from the external-air communication aperture 32 is allowed, to be accumulated in the catch tank 13 once, and then is suitably discharged through the external-air communication aperture 32. This precludes the accumulation tank 12 from flooding with water and improves on-vehicle installation capability. The reservoir device 10 can be obtained, in which the accumulation tank 12 is prevented from flooding with water, even if the reservoir tank 10 is placed in a place or the like relatively closer to for instance a road surface with an ease of suffering water splashing during a traveling in a rainy weather or a traveling on a submerged road surface or the like. |
| US08505293B2 |
Method and system for converting kinetic energy contained in horizontal flows into useful mechanical energy
An improved system for converting kinetic energy contained in naturally occurring horizontal flows occurring in fluids accumulated above ground into useful mechanical energy is specified in which at least one circulating element guided in a closed cycle, arranged substantially horizontal above the ground is provided, to which at least one buoyancy body having a crosssection of impact for the flow is attached by means of at least one guy rope or by means of a backstay chain, wherein in a section of the closed cycle, in which a propulsive power aligned in a direction of circulation acts on the buoyancy body via the flow impacting on the cross-section of impact, the distance between the circulating element and the buoyancy body is set greater than in a section of the closed cycle, in which via the flow impacting on the cross-section of impact no propulsive power aligned in the direction of circulation acts on the buoyancy body, further optimizing is carried out in that the buoyancy body is set during the cycle in its alignment to the flow such that with a flow acting transversely to the temporary direction of circulation of the circulating element it also experiences a force component acting in the direction of circulation and transfers to the circulating element via the at least one guy rope. |
| US08505291B2 |
Hydraulic system having load sensing capabilities
An exemplary hydraulic system includes a digital valve operable to fluidly connect a hydraulic load to a pressure supply, and an orifice disposed in a flow path between the hydraulic load and the digital valve. A digital controller is operably connected to the digital valve. The digital controller stores a target pressure drop across the orifice and is configured to determine an actual pressure drop across the orifice and formulate a control signal based on the target pressure drop and the actual pressure drop. The controller transmits the control signal to the digital valve for controlling the operation of the valve. |
| US08505290B2 |
Drive for rotating structure
A hydraulic excavator includes a rotation motor (31) for rotating an upper rotating structure. The rotation motor (31) includes an electric motor (32), a hydraulic motor (40), and a reduction gearbox (33). The hydraulic motor (40) includes a motor mechanism (50) and a clutch mechanism (70). The motor mechanism (50), which is a vane-type hydraulic motor, is engaged with/disengaged from a motor shaft (37) by the clutch mechanism (70). When rotation speed of the upper rotating structure is low, and a required value of output torque of the rotation motor (31) is high, an operation of driving the output shaft (35) by the hydraulic motor (40) is performed in the rotation motor (31). |
| US08505289B2 |
Fixed/variable hybrid system
A fixed/variable hybrid system has modified constant flow open center hydraulic valves (“fixed/variable valves”), including an open center core, spools, a power core, and a tank galley. A small fixed displacement pump provides fluid at a constant rate to the open center core. A variable displacement piston pump provides fluid directly to the power core as needed. Activation of spools partially restricts the open center core causing an increase in fluid pressure that is communicated to the variable displacement piston pump's load sense signal port, causing the pump to increase fluid flow and pressure to the power core. Activated spools direct pressurized fluid from the power core to the applications through selected hydraulic ports. Activated spools also direct fluid flow from selected hydraulic ports via the tank galley to a hydraulic tank. Pumping the majority of fluid only on an as-needed basis results in significant efficiencies. |
| US08505288B2 |
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. |
| US08505287B1 |
Micro-hydraulic supply and storage units for operating hydraulic systems
Micro-hydraulic supply and storage units capable of recovering waste energy and storing energy for later use, such as for operating hydraulic valve actuation and high pressure fuel injection systems. The system includes a sump, a pump motor, an accumulator and a supply rail. Valving is provided to couple the outlet of the pump motor to the accumulator to fill the accumulator with what otherwise would be waste energy, such as when a vehicle is using its engine for braking, directing the output of the pump motor to a supply rail to maintain the pressure in the supply rail, and directing the output of the pump to a sump. The valving also allows directing an outlet of the accumulator to an inlet of the pump motor for recover of the energy in the accumulator. Other aspects of the invention are disclosed. |
| US08505286B2 |
Decoupling element
A decoupling element (11) for use with exhaust-gas systems, including an at least partially corrugated bellows (13) having at least two ends in the form of an inlet (E) and an outlet (A) for the flow (S) of the exhaust gas through the decoupling element (11). A filter element (12′) for filtering the exhaust-gas flow (S) is arranged at least partially in the interior (I) of the decoupling element (11) and the filter element (12′) has a self-supporting construction, in particular, without carrier and/or support bodies. |
| US08505273B2 |
System for ice and/or frost prevention using guided wave energy
An ice and/or frost preventing system for positioning in an airflow tunnel having an air inlet includes a plurality of waveguide passages positioned in the airflow tunnel; an air filter positioned in each waveguide passage; a microwave energy source coupled to each waveguide passage; a first screen positioned in the airflow tunnel upstream of the plurality of waveguide passages; and a second screen positioned in the airflow tunnel downstream of the plurality of waveguide passages. The microwave energy sources and the first and second screens create a guided, standing wave, microwave energy that substantially prevents at least one of ice and frost from forming on the air filters. A turbine system including the ice and/or frost preventing system is also described. |
| US08505271B2 |
Spliced fiber glass rovings and methods and systems for splicing fiber glass rovings
The invention relates to spliced fiber glass rovings and systems and methods for splicing rovings. In one embodiment, a method for joining fiber glass rovings comprises overlapping a leading end of a first roving with a trailing end of a second roving to create an overlapped region; pneumatically splicing a portion of the overlapped region to form a spliced region; and applying an adhesive to the spliced region. In one embodiment, a spliced fiber glass roving comprises a spliced region comprising a plurality of glass fibers of a leading end of a first roving intertwined with a plurality of glass fibers of a trailing end of a second roving, wherein the spliced region is between about 1 and 20 centimeters long and has a tensile strength between about 50 and 150% of the first roving prior to splicing. |
| US08505269B2 |
Method, apparatus and system of eliminating static charge and filling and sterilizing resin vessel
Charges accumulated inside a wall structure of a resin vessel, which is sterilized by an electron beam irradiator, and an ionizer disposed outside a filler emits to the outer surface of the resin vessel are eliminated with negative ions having the same polarity as that of charges accumulated in the wall section of the resin vessel, while conveying the resin vessel sterilized by the electron beam irradiator to the filler, by which liquid fills the resin vessel. |
| US08505267B2 |
Holder for being positioned in floating floor slabs and installation system thereof
A holder to be placed in floating floor slabs and the installation system thereof, the holder comprising a cubic holder having a pair of tubes on each side thereof, parallel with the supporting base, with facing sides in identical position; within said sides a section designed for placing rods on which the different layers of the rebar mesh are supported and a system for fitting the mesh on the rods, and also the securing of the corners of the different levels of the rebar mesh by means of linking of the holder s using the rods. |
| US08505265B2 |
Power line tower alignment method
An alignment jig uses steel alignment cross members and chords to align multiple load bearing member footing legs simultaneously with great accuracy, thereby greatly speeding construction footing installation times. Using preset adjustment stops, multiple footing patterns may be readily accommodated. The entire alignment jig may be readily assembled or prepared for transport by skilled workers in an hour or less. By using the alignment jig, the speed of footing construction may be greatly increased. In some cases, footings that would have previously required four days to a week to build were reduced to a single day, with consequent cost and time savings. Although one initial use of the alignment jig is for high voltage power line tower footings with four legs, it may be used with as few as two legs, and may be used with more than four legs, and in a variety of applications. |
| US08505264B2 |
Tool for and method of installing metal stud wall system
A tool connects a stud in place to a longitudinal track in a metal stud wall system installation. The tool includes a tool head having an upright slot in which a track flange is received and a pair of rams mounted on the tool head for linear movement transversely of the track. The rams are spaced apart and straddle opposite sides of the stud. The rams have leading tips with cutting edges. An actuator moves the rams into cutting engagement with the track flange in the upright slot to cut hinged tabs in the track flange, and to bend the hinged tabs into frictional engagement with the opposite sides of the upright stud to connect the upright stud in place to the track. |
| US08505262B2 |
Vehicle glazing having a trim mounted thereon
A vehicle glazing has a glazing profile provided around at least a portion of the periphery of a pane of glazing material. A rigid insert is embedded in the glazing profile, and a trim is mounted on the glazing profile, the trim engaging the insert and being retained by it. The insert is provided with at least one aperture through which the insert is engaged by at least one protrusion on the trim. |
| US08505261B2 |
Sliding roof seam construction
A sliding bracket assembly permits adjacent metal roof panels to move relative to one another to accommodate differential thermal expansion. The assembly includes a center element which is bolted across a purlin, and a pair of wing elements, one on either side of the center element. Roof panels are attached to the wing elements on either side. The wing elements can side lengthwise on the center element; thus the wing elements and their attached roof panels can move lengthwise relative to one another as the roof panels differentially expand and contract. |
| US08505260B1 |
Laterally restrained joint structure
A laterally restrained joint structure including a structural member, a gusset plate and at least one restraining member is disclosed. The gusset plate is connected to the structural member, and a two-force member is disposed opposite to the structural member and connected to the gusset plate. The restraining member is disposed over side or at edges of the gusset plate and connected to the structure member, so that the lateral deformation of the gusset plate can be controlled and the buckling strength of the gusset plate can be enhanced by the restraining member, and the laterally restrained joint structure is capable of reinforcing a building. |
| US08505258B2 |
Load-bearing three-dimensional structure
A load-bearing three-dimensional structure including a skeletal structure formed by a sheet of material having a plurality of bend lines, each bend line including a plurality of folding displacements, wherein the sheet of material is bent along the bend lines into a box-section; and a reinforcing member configured for substantially surrounding a portion of the skeletal structure when bent into a box-section to reinforce the structural integrity of the skeletal structure. A method of manufacturing the three-dimensional structure is also disclosed. |
| US08505255B2 |
Laminate flooring with footstep sound absorption
The invention relates to a floor covering as is frequently used in houses and apartments. The floor covering has on its underside a layer of thermoplastic material. This layer is connected in a fixed manner to the floor covering. The floor covering consists of wood, wood derivatives and/or synthetic materials. In order to produced said floor covering, the thermoplastic material is heated and applied, or rolled onto the underside of the floor covering. The latter exhibits excellent sound-proofing properties. |
| US08505254B2 |
Fastening system for a plate-shaped structural element
A fastening system for a plate-shaped structural element on a pitched roof is provided. The plate-shaped structural element is bordered in a water-tight manner in a frame and fully replaces the roof covering, and the eaves-side and ridge-side cross beams of the frame which run transversely to the ridge-eaves direction have profiles which are matched to each other and engage in each other. The top side of the eaves-side cross beam has a mounting that surrounds the edge of the plate-shaped structural element, and the bottom side thereof has a support for fastening to the roof structure. The support includes a web that extends from the mounting to the support, a protrusion extending beneath the mounting and receives an extension that extends from the ridge-side cross beam thereof. |
| US08505252B2 |
Protective barrier and method for its use
A protective barrier that will typically be installed beneath ceilings during construction work being performed on ceilings or roofs of buildings. The protective barrier can be comprised entirely of one material or of different materials connected by seams. Some or all of these materials can be designed to fail when contacted by water via dissolution, melting or through some other destructive process initiated by contact with water. This failure can create access points from the ceiling through the protective barrier to the area being protected by the barrier, which can allow water from a fire suppression system to reach a fire located below the protective barrier. |
| US08505251B1 |
System for routing conduit and related methods and apparatus
An adapter with a female portion in connected to a conduit extension at a location within a barrier. The female portion can include female threads that extend beyond the barrier. Alternately, a modular adapter including an adapter element and elongated element can be releasably connected to the female portion with the elongated element extending beyond the barrier. Conduit damage proximate to the barrier is repaired by removing a damaged portion extending beyond the barrier and connecting a male adapter to the female portion. |
| US08505245B2 |
Synergetic training device
The invention can be efficiently used for intensively learning different disciplines, including foreign languages, and for forming and automating operational skills of professionals in different field of activity. It makes it possible to obtain a technical result and a high-quality intensive training. The use of a training aid is developed according to a synergetic theory in the form of a synergetic training device and makes it possible to provide a synergetic variant of intensive training. The synergetic training device is embodied in a dynamic technical device consisting of several soundproof booths which comprise training facilities and technical means using a sensor system. The synergetic training device makes it possible to intensify and simultaneously diversify the training activity of trainees, to develop an integrated-in-groups training method according to a ‘assistant-students’ system consisting in simultaneously training mini-divisions under the guidance of a large group of assistants, including technical assistants. The possibility of simultaneously taking into account all levels of training provides the method with a multi-level character, while the possibility of taking into account the peculiarities of the students guarantees the high antropological attitude thereof. |
| US08505244B2 |
Modular tower structure for eolic turbines and other applications
A tower structure for a wind energy turbine, wind power, renewable energy, and other uses made of concrete, steel-reinforced concrete or other materials, and a method of manufacture thereof are described. The structure includes several pre-fabricated tower lengths, each tower length having at least three pre-fabricated wedges, such that a central protruding edge of each wedge approaches or lies at a center line of the tower structure when assembled. Tower lengths higher in the tower may be narrower and may be made up of fewer wedges than lower tower lengths. Each tower length may also include several apertures or channels adapted to accommodate a cable joining all the tower lengths of the tower. Also, tower lengths may have a circular or polygonal outer ring made up of bracing elements, each bracing element arranged when assembled to brace one or more wedges. |
| US08505241B2 |
Door lever for controlling a door opening and closing apparatus
An opening and closing control apparatus includes an automatic sliding door controller that controls a drive of an opening and closing driving mechanism. The automatic sliding door controller determines whether a request is a manual operating request or an automatic operating request on the basis of a signal from a press switch that is switched on by a press-on operation. In the case of the automatic operating request, the automatic sliding door controller is configured so that an automatic opening and closing determination process determines whether a request is an opening operating request or a closing operating request based on the detection of door state detection section, and an opening and closing process is then executed by operating the opening and closing driving mechanism based on the determination. |
| US08505238B2 |
Vertical aeroponic plant growing system
An aeroponic plant growing system with vertically aligned planting sites. The system includes a plurality of plant-holding containers, a walled enclosure, and a fluid dispenser housed therein. One of the enclosure's walls defines a plant-supporting frame on which are formed horizontally extending, outwardly-facing grooves and their respective inwardly-projecting ridges. Tapered between its distal ends, each container can be individually received within one of a plurality of spaced apart orifices defined by each groove. So received, the container extends into the enclosure and a substantial portion of the container's transverse cross-section most distal from its wider end is cantilevered over each horizontally extending ridge situated downwardly of that particular container's interface with the frame, thus positioning, in use, the taproots of large numbers of plants within a barrier-free, vertical corridor of extremely narrow footprint down which their roots can grow both aeroponically and gravitropically. |
| US08505237B2 |
Process for enhancing plant growth
The instant invention relates to a process for enhancing plant growth in greenhouses or plant tunnels or over mulches by incorporating one or more yellow pigments or dyes into a greenhouse, mulch film or glazing and exposing the plants through or over such film to solar radiation so that specific and defined ratios of the light transmitted, emitted or reflected between 410 to 450 nm, 380 to 410 nm and 450 to 500 nm are obtained. A further aspect of the invention is the use of one or more yellow pigments or dyes as plant growth enhancing additive in polymeric films for greenhouses, plant tunnels or mulches or a coating for greenhouse glazing so that specific and defined ratios of the light transmitted, emitted or reflected between 410 to 450 nm, 380 to 410 nm and 450 to 500 nm are obtained. |
| US08505235B2 |
CPU-controlled, reaming electronic animal trap with three-killing-plate configuration
An electronic animal trap with a CPU-controlled, rearming, three-killing-plate configuration and extended killing cycle for trapping and exterminating larger rodents such as rats. The high-voltage output circuit is connected to a pair of killing plates which are activated with a high-voltage pulse train for a killing cycle when a pest of known impedance is sensed across the pair of plates. A third killing plate, electrically coupled to a first plate of the pair of plates, is brought to the voltage level of the first plate within approximately 1 msec of circuit activation for increased kill and escape-prevention capabilities. |
| US08505234B2 |
Insert for use with a pest station
A versatile pest station for use with interchangeable inserts includes a housing, a lock mechanism, a first insert, and a second insert. The housing includes a base, a lid, and an opening. The base and the lid form a cavity, and the opening provides access to the cavity. The base has a bottom surface and is configured and arranged to be securely mounted to a surface. The lock mechanism interlocks the base and the lid. The first insert is configured and arranged to fit within the cavity, and the first insert includes an entrance mechanism. The second insert is configured and arranged to fit within the cavity, and the second insert includes a snap trap. The first insert and the second insert are interchangeable for individual use with the housing, and the first insert and the second insert are elevated relative to the bottom surface of the base. |
| US08505231B2 |
Digital machinegun optic with bullet drop compensation mount
A digital machinegun optic (DMO) is discussed, which includes a digital module having a camera to obtain an image, a bullet drop compensation mount receiving the digital module in a detachable manner, and having a mounting solution, a caliber adjustment knob configured to enable a user to select a caliber that matches firearms of different calibers, and a dual bullet drop compensation wheel to allow the user to accurately hit a target by selecting a right distance to the target; a head mounted display module having a display portion to receive the image from the camera; and a control box module configured to control a display of the image on the display portion. |
| US08505229B2 |
Rail extension device
A rail extension device for a belt fed machine gun includes a first and a second section of rail for mounting auxiliary devices, the second section being rotatable relative to the first section to prevent a collision between an auxiliary device mounted on the second section of rail and the weapon when a feed tray cover is opened to reload. |
| US08505228B2 |
Multiple rail sighting device
A sighting device for a firearm accessory includes a first coupling member, a second coupling member, and a multiple rail arrangement. The first coupling member is supported on an upper half portion of the firearm accessory. The second coupling member is supported on a lower half portion of the firearm accessory, and includes an elongated coupling slot formed thereon to detachably engage with a firearm rail of the firearm. The multiple rail arrangement includes a plurality of mounting rails formed on the first coupling member and the second coupling member, wherein the mounting rails allow the firearm accessory to be mounted onto at least one additional firearm accessory so as to eliminate a need to individually attach the additional firearm accessory to the firearm. |
| US08505223B2 |
Heating device for the ironing top of an ironing board
A heating device for the ironing top of an ironing board, comprising a flexible flat element, to be associated with a top of an ironing board, provided with heating elements arranged so as to affect at least part of at least one of its main surfaces. Advantageously, the device comprises elements for the quick and reversible fixing of the flexible flat element to an ironing top. |
| US08505222B2 |
Hybrid skate boot
A skate includes a boot for receiving a wearer's foot and ankle therein, boot having a boot upper fixed to an outsole. The boot upper includes a vamp for covering a front portion of the foot, first and second quarters connected to the vamp for covering sides of the foot, an instep portion connected to the vamp and quarters for at least partly covering a top portion of the foot, and a rear portion connected to the quarters for covering a rear portion of the foot and ankle. At least the instep portion and part of the rear portion are made of a first material, and the first and second quarters are made of a different, second material. The second material is more rigid than the first material. |
| US08505219B2 |
Article of footwear with multi-directional sole structure
An article of footwear with a multi-directional sole structure including a flex groove system is disclosed. The flex groove system includes a plurality of longitudinal flex grooves and lateral flex grooves that divide the sole structure into a plurality of segments. The flex groove system also includes a plurality of diagonal flex grooves that intersect the corners of the plurality of segments. The flex grooves system can provide enhanced flexibility for the sole structure and can enhance multi-directional flexing. |
| US08505216B2 |
Article of footwear having an upper with a structured intermediate layer
An article of footwear and a method of manufacturing the footwear are disclosed. The footwear has an upper and a sole structure. The upper is secured to sole structure and the upper is formed from three layers: a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer. The second layer is formed from a polymer material and molded to the first layer, but the second layer may alternately be molded to the third layer. The third layer is joined with at least one of the first layer and the second layer such that the second layer is positioned between the first layer and the third layer. |
| US08505215B2 |
Article of footwear for increasing stability and lateral performance
An article of footwear with multiple cross sectional profile shapes disposed on an outer peripheral edge of a sole is disclosed. The multiple cross sectional profile shapes on the outer peripheral edge of the sole can help increase the lateral performance and lateral stability of a wearer of the article of footwear. |
| US08505213B2 |
Extendable nozzle for a vehicle drying apparatus
A dryer nozzle for a drying unit in a vehicle wash system includes a nozzle portion for emitting high velocity air to an exterior surface of a vehicle passing thereunder. The nozzle portion has an inner nozzle section and an outer nozzle section. The inner nozzle section and the outer nozzle section being configured such that they can be positioned one inside the other during operation. At least one of the inner nozzle section or the outer nozzle section can be extended and retracted as directed towards or away from the surface of the vehicle. |
| US08505211B2 |
Measuring device for determining a thread length of a fastener
A measuring device is adapted for determining a safety thread length LS of a fastener required for fastening a wheel onto a wheel hub unit. The measuring device includes an elongated measuring rod, a positioning member secured to a front end of the measuring rod and configured to abut against a circumferential abutment seat of the wheel, and a plurality of modular sleeves, each configured to be sleevably positioned on and matched up with the measuring rod. Subsequent to bringing the positioning member to abut against the circumferential abutment seat, the modular sleeve is dragged forwardly until a front sleeve end reaches an inner major surface of the wheel, and LS is determined to be equal to the distance between the front end and a rear sleeve end of the modular sleeve. |
| US08505202B2 |
Process for manufacturing a single-piece blisk with a temporary blade support ring arranged at a distance from blade tips
A process for manufacturing a single-piece blisk, including: using an abrasive water jet to cut a block of material, so as to create blade preforms extending radially outwards from a disk, while keeping material to form a connecting mechanism between directly consecutive blade preforms, the cutting being done such that the connecting mechanism approximately forms a ring at a radial spacing from the disk, connecting the blade preforms together at a radially inwards distance from their tips, and then removing the connecting mechanism. |
| US08505200B2 |
Land grid array interposer producing method
A method of producing a module arrangement which includes a land grid array (LGA) interposer structure, including an electrically insulating carrier plane, and at least one interposer mounted on a first surface of said carrier plane. The interposer possesses a hemi-toroidal configuration in transverse cross-section and is constituted of a dielectric elastomeric material. A plurality of electrically-conductive elements are arranged about the surface of the at least one hemi-toroidal interposer and extend radically inwardly and downwardly from an uppermost end thereof into electrical contact with at least one component located on an opposite side of the electrically insulating carrier plane. |
| US08505198B2 |
Method for manufacturing an electronic assembly
A method for manufacturing an electronic assembly, including at least one electronic component and a circuit trace structure, by which the at least one electronic component is contacted. In the method, a conductive foil is patterned in a first step to form the circuit trace structure. In a second operation, the circuit trace structure is equipped with the at least one electronic component. In a final operation, another foil is laminated onto the conductive foil equipped with the at least one electronic component on the side on which the conductive foil is equipped with the at least one electronic component. |
| US08505197B2 |
Methods of fabricating multilayer substrates
A method of fabricating a multilayer substrate may include bonding a front face of a donor substrate to a front face of a receiver substrate by molecular adhesion to form a stack and applying a heat treatment to the stack to consolidate a bond interface between the donor substrate and the receiver substrate. The method may further include thinning a back face of the donor substrate, trimming a periphery of the donor substrate and at least a portion of a periphery of the receiver substrate, and etching the back face of the donor substrate, the periphery of the donor substrate, and the at least a portion of the periphery of the receiver substrate subsequent to thinning the back face of the donor substrate and trimming the periphery of the donor substrate and the at least a portion of the periphery of the receiver substrate. |
| US08505191B2 |
Method for assembling electric power supply cables on a stator
A method of assembling electric power supply cables on a stator of an electric motor including the following steps: electrically connecting an end of each cable to an end of at least one respective wire of the winding; inserting each pair of connected ends into a respective small tube of a protection and positioning element made of insulating plastic and having a strip from which a number small tubes at least corresponding to the number of electric power supply cables transversally protrudes; clamping each small tube so as to fix it to the pair of ends inserted inside it; inserting an end of the strip inside a cavity of the pack, so that the small tubes are located within the head; and tying the winding in the region of the head so as to enclose the small tubes. |
| US08505189B2 |
Apparatus for manufacturing backlight source
A manufacturing apparatus for a backlight unit includes a feed mechanism, a testing mechanism, and an attachment mechanism. The feed mechanism arranges a plurality of light-emitting diodes in a row. The testing mechanism tests the light-emitting diodes. The attachment mechanism positions the light-emitting diodes to a circuit board. The attachment mechanism comprises a support assembly and a laminating device, in which the support assembly receives the light-emitting diodes tested by the at least one testing unit, the support assembly is opposite to the circuit board, and the laminating device laminates the light-emitting diodes to the circuit board. A method for manufacturing the backlight unit is also provided. |
| US08505188B2 |
Closure device for closing a container, and method of producing such a closure device
The invention relates to a closure device having a two-part base element and a hinged cap pivotally fastened to the base element and movable between a closed and an open setting. The base element is configured in two parts, with one part being a substantially annular fastening element and the other part being a dome-shaped dispensing element inserted into the substantially annular fastening element. The invention also relates to a method of producing such a closure device. |
| US08505185B2 |
Method of installing sealed circular ductwork
A circular sheet metal duct having a sealant applied across the longitudinal seam. The sealant will improve the efficiency and will reduce or eliminate air leakage from the longitudinal seam. The sealant is applied during the manufacturing processes so that an installer does not have to seal the duct work. The method of manufacturing the sealant is provided. |
| US08505183B2 |
Method for sealing edges of vapor chamber
A method for sealing edges of a vapor chamber includes steps of: providing a first cover and a second cover, the first cover having its periphery bent to form a first folded edge, the second cover having its periphery bent to form a second folded edge; providing a supporting structure and a wick structure between the first cover and the second cover; covering the second cover on the first cover with the second folded edge being superposed on the first folded edge; bending the first folded edge to cover on the second folded edge; and providing a pressing die to press the first folded edge, thereby tightly connecting the first folded edge to the second folded edge. In this way, excellent tightness of sealing edges of the vapor chamber is achieved. Further, the production yield of the vapor chamber is increased with a reduced cost. |
| US08505171B2 |
Quick release apparatus for an SCBA frame
An apparatus for a rescue worker's waist belt for connecting to and rapidly disconnecting from a self-contained breathing apparatus waist belt. The rescue worker's waist belt includes buckles disposed on its side that complement the buckles disposed on the SCBA waist belt. An SCBA wearer connects the SCBA waist belt directly to the rescue worker's waist belt rather than buckling the waist belt around the wearer's waist. Rapid disconnection is effected with the push of two buttons, thereby allowing the wearer to entirely remove the SCBA from his or her body while leaving the rescue worker's waist belt and any accoutrements attached thereto in place and on his or her person. |
| US08505157B2 |
Vacuum cleaner
A vacuum cleaner is provided that includes a cleaner body; a dust separating apparatus fixed to the cleaner body; a first dust receptacle detachably attached to the cleaner body on a bottom portion of the dust separating apparatus to collect large particle dust; a second dust receptacle detachably attached to the cleaner body on a bottom portion of the first dust receptacle to collect fine particle dust; and a locking device having a first position in which the dust separating apparatus is closely contacted to the first and second dust receptacles, and a second position in which the dust separating apparatus is spaced apart from the first and second dust receptacles at a predetermined interval. The second dust receptacle is detached from the first dust receptacle at the second position, and is detached from the cleaner body after the first dust receptacle is disengaged from the cleaner body. |
| US08505147B2 |
Flat mop
A mop comprises a handle and a first frame member comprising a first side and a second side. The handle is connected to the first side at a translating pivot such that the handle may translate and pivot relative to the first frame member. A second frame member has a third side and a fourth side connected to the first frame member at a hinge such that the second frame member can move relative to the first frame member between a first position where the first side is connected to the third side and a second position where the second side is disposed adjacent the fourth side. A method of using the mop is also provided. |
| US08505146B1 |
Auger head cleanout system
A line has a proximal end, a distal end and a flexible intermediate extent with a central axis. An auger head has a central base and a plurality of semicircular disks. Each disk has an interior edge coupled to the base. The disks extend generally radially from the base. Each interior edge has an inner end and an outer end. The base has a tapering outer end coextensive the outer ends of the disks. The base has a flat inner end transverse to the axis. Coupling components removably join the distal end of the line and the inner end of the base. |
| US08505145B2 |
Central core for a cleaning sponge roller
An approximately cylindrical central core for cleaning sponge roller having an axially extending internal hole and multiple small holes realizing communication from the internal hole to the circumferential external surface. The central core for cleaning sponge roller is characterized in that the external surface of the central core is provided in the circumferential direction with multiple axially slender projections and that the projections each has an axial section viewed from a direction perpendicular to the axial direction that is not flat. |
| US08505144B2 |
Counter-balanced top wheel for a vehicle wash system
A counter-balanced top wheel assembly for laundering a vehicle includes a frame. A brush support arm having a first end and a second end is pivotally mounted to the frame adjacent the first end. A counterweight support arm having a first end and a second end is pivotally mounted to the frame adjacent the first end. The second end of the brush support arm is in communication with a brush such that the brush extends over a vehicle bay to launder an exterior of the vehicle. The assembly includes a pulley mechanism with a strap connecting the brush support arm to the counterweight support arm. The brush support arm and the counterweight support arm extend away from the frame in the same direction. The assembly is configured such that the brush applies consistent weight to the exterior of the vehicle throughout its entire arc of travel. |
| US08505142B2 |
Pool cleaner baseplate with inlet extension members and recessed wheels
A baseplate for a robotic self-propelled pool cleaner having one or more inlet openings through which water-borne debris passes prior to filtration is provided with downwardly depending inlet extension members having walls that define an opening corresponding in shape to the baseplate inlet opening and that are mounted in close-fitting relation to extend the water intake opening towards, but without touching, the pool surface to increase the suction force at the surface. The baseplate optionally includes a rotatable wheel mounted in an inboard recess in the baseplate on, or adjacent to the longitudinal centerline of the cleaner to facilitate passage over obstacles that would immobilize the pool cleaner by contact with an inlet extension member. |
| US08505138B1 |
Adjustable back platform device
An adjustable back platform device featuring a base panel having side wall extending from side edges, the walls being positioned generally parallel to one another; a hole disposed in both the first side panel and in the second side panel, the holes function as handles to allow the adjustable back platform device to be lifted; and a first adjustable leg, a second adjustable leg, and a third adjustable leg, each adjustable leg being disposed on a bottom surface of the base panel, the adjustable legs allow a distance between the base panel and a floor surface to be modified; wherein when a user lies atop the base panel, the back platform device functions to raise the user's back a certain distance off the floor surface so as to align the user's back with a bottom floor of a cabinet. |
| US08505136B2 |
Playpen hub assembly and playpen using the same
A linking device is configured at the bottom of a playpen. Two of the bottom pipes at opposite side pivot to a base seat and further pivot to the linking device, which is engaged by a locking device so that the bottom pipes and the linking device are secured at an unfolding position. To fold the hub assembly, using a strap or by pushing the locking device directly pivots the locking device to disengage from the linking device and the bottom pipes may rotate to a folding position. To restore the hub assembly to the unfolding position, the linking device can be pressed to push an inclined surface of the locking device to impart a force to the locking device to pivot the locking device until the linking device snaps to engage the locking device, so the hub assembly is secured at the unfolding position again. |
| US08505135B2 |
Bedridden patient transfer gurney
A bedridden patient transfer gurney is provided, which includes a gurney body, and further includes several support feet installed with a swivel caster at the bottom. A top end of each support foot is connected to the gurney body. An elevation device is disposed on the support foot. Two curved panels opposite to each other having a shape of a grab bucket are disposed at a lower portion of the gurney body. When being closed, the two curved panels are capable of accommodating a human body. An opening and closing device is disposed between the gurney body and the two curved panels. The opening and closing device is respectively connected to the gurney body and the two curved panels. The bedridden patient transfer gurney is used for transferring a bedridden patient, has a simple structure and an advantage of convenient use, and ensures good stability when the patient is being transferred, thereby preventing the patient from experiencing more pain. |
| US08505133B1 |
Furniture combination of bed and desk
A bed/desk combination wherein the desk is disposed above the bed and unneeded space above the foot of the bed is used for the sitting portion of the desk and unneeded space below the desk surface as well as further space unneeded by the desk function is used for the space above the head of the bed. |
| US08505132B2 |
Overflow assembly for bathtubs and the like
An overflow system in the bathtub has an overflow port and has a drain pipe in connection with the overflow port. A threaded flange has a stub shoulder on one end which is fitted into a circular sleeve on the overflow port. The threaded flange has exterior threads on its outer surface and a thin diaphragm secured to the end thereof opposite to the stub shoulder. A large internally threaded nut is threadably mounted on the outer end of the threaded flange. A decorative cap is frictionally snapped into engagement with protrusions on the outer surface of the nut. The cap can be removed when needed to permit the plumber to gain access to the diaphragm to cut it open for fluid flow after the system has been tested for leaks, or put in place after the cut takes place. |
| US08505130B2 |
Bath apparatus
A bath apparatus or a shower machine includes a housing and a showerhead mounted therein. The housing includes a door opening where a door body is installed. The housing has an egg-shell shape with the door opening provided at a front side and a back panel provided at a rear side. A slide rail fixedly connected to an inside wall of the housing, extends from a rear end that is fixed to the back panel to a front end at the door opening. The front end of the slide rail includes a locking clip body that matches a locking clip socket fixed on the housing. A sliding block is installed on the slide rail and fixedly connected to a supporting rod. A top end of the supporting rod is hinge jointed to the door body. |
| US08505126B2 |
Sanitary washing apparatus
A sanitary washing apparatus includes a nozzle having a water discharge port, the nozzle being configured to wash a human private part by squirting water from the water discharge port, a flow channel configured to supply the water to the nozzle, a sterilizing water supply unit provided partway through the flow channel, the sterilizing water supply unit being capable of supplying sterilizing water, and a control unit configured to execute a physical washing process of washing the nozzle using water and a sterilizing process of sterilizing the nozzle using the sterilizing water after the washing the human private part. The washing nozzle can be sterilized more efficiently or a user's sense of cleanliness regarding the washing nozzle can be improved. |
| US08505125B1 |
Hair catching stall shower drain
A drain strainer with an upper drain plate with large holes and a lower basket with small holes allows particulate matter to fall through the large holes but not enter the small holes. This two-story feature allows the drain strainer to have a flush, aesthetically pleasing appearance, and also prevents particulate matter from sitting on top of the drain, which could sully the feet of a shower user or could float to other parts of the tub or sink. The upper drain plate could be attached via a recessed hinge with a finger hole that allows a user to easily access the basket without the use of tools. |
| US08505124B2 |
Off-set carrier
An off-set pipe coupling for use in a support system for a wall mounted toilet or water closet includes a curved pipe having a first end and a second end; a first plate coupled to the first end of the curved pipe; and a second plate coupled to the second end of the curved pipe. The first plate has a central hole in fluid communication with the curved pipe and a plurality of screw holes positioned around a peripheral area thereof. The second plate has a central hole in fluid communication with the curved pipe and a plurality of screw holes positioned around a peripheral area thereof. The first plate is coupled to a faceplate for supporting a wall mounted toilet above a floor surface, the second plate is coupled to a plumbing system and the curved pipe provides fluid communication between a waste discharge conduit and the plumbing system. |
| US08505120B2 |
Sock
The invention relates to a sock, especially for use in sports, which comprises a foot part (1) and a leg (2), said foot part having a toe area (11) and a heel area (12) and a sole area (13) between the toe and the heel area, and which is also provided with an O-ring-type bandage (22). An O-ring-type bandage (22) is disposed in the area of the ankle joint and extends asymmetrically on the circumference of the sock. |
| US08505119B2 |
Garment, garment accessory, garment belt and combinations of same
A garment belt features an elongated strap and a V-shaped closure member having first and second legs interconnected at joined ends thereof and diverging from one another away from the joined ends. The closure member is connected between effective ends of the strap to close the belt and form a waist loop being defined by the elongated strap, the V-shaped closure member and the connections therebetween. A garment to be worn about a wearer's waist features an open triangular notch depending into a waist portion of the garment from an upper boundary thereof on the front side of the garment. The belt, or a V-shaped accessory of similar appearance to its closure member, is wearable with the garment to provide a unique appearance, revealing an exposed triangular section of skin. The V-shaped closure or accessory may carry an ornamental jewelry piece suspended between the legs of the member. |
| US08505118B2 |
Expandable pocket
An expandable pocket is described. In one or more implementations, a pocket is comprised of a front panel attached to a back panel. The front panel is configured to expand. Additionally, the front panel is configured to substantially maintain alignment of a portion of a stripe disposed on the front panel with a portion of the stripe disposed on the back panel. The front panel is configured to maintain this alignment when the front panel is expanded and when the front panel is not expanded. |
| US08505114B1 |
Garment attachable retention system
A garment attachable retention system for securing a device, such as game call, dog whistle, training device, protection devices, sharpeners, clippers, lights, work tools, other electronic devices, other hunting or fishing devices, and etc. to a garment in a retractable manner. The retention system generally includes a garment, a substantially sealed first pocket secured to the garment, a retracting mechanism positioned within the first pocket and having an elongated member retractably connected thereto, and a device connected to the elongated member and adapted to retractably extend from the retracting mechanism via the elongated member. The first pocket may be located along an exterior surface of an interior surface of the garment. Various types of garments may be utilized, such as a coat, vest, pants, waders, suspenders, hat, cap, shirt, face masks, gloves, etc. In addition, a heating pad may be utilized to keep the device warm during non use. |
| US08505113B2 |
Ballistic helmet with nape protector
A ballistic armored component attaches to the existing retention straps of common combat helmets and provides protection to the otherwise exposed lower skull and upper neck region. A fabric covering contains a soft armor or hard armor insert, and is mounted by straps or other fasteners to existing straps found in conventional helmets. The armored component adds additional protection from ground-level or subterranean munitions, by placing a ballistic shape on the lower skull region (occipital region), providing significant additional ballistic coverage with minimal weight and bulk. The fabric shell may also be connected directly to the helmet shell, to allow the component to withdraw within the helmet when the wearer's neck is flexed rearwardly. |
| US08505112B2 |
Diving suit
A diving suit made of a rubber material comprising HNBR (hydrogenated nitrile butadiene rubber) is disclosed, as well as a process for the production of the diving suit and the use of HNBR in a rubber material of a diving suit for use in contaminated water. |
| US08510860B2 |
Local storage of information pedigrees
This disclosure describes techniques for dynamically assembling and utilizing a pedigree of a resource. A pedigree of a resource is a set of statements that describe a provenance of the resource. As described herein, a document may include local pedigree fragments and optionally one or more pointers to remote pedigree fragments not locally stored in the document. A pedigree fragment, generally, is a data structure that specifies a direct relationship between a first resource, e.g., a primary resource, and a second resource from which an asserted fact of the first resource is derived. Because a pedigree fragment specifies such direct relationships, a set of pedigree fragments may be used to assemble the complete pedigree of resource. |
| US08510859B2 |
Methods and arrangements to launch trusted, co-existing environments
Methods and arrangements to launch trusted, distinct, co-existing environments are disclosed. Embodiments may launch trusted, distinct, co-existing environments in pre-OS space with high assurance. A hardware-enforced isolation scheme may isolate the partitions to facilitate storage and execution of code and data. In many embodiments, the system may launch a partition manager to establish embedded and main partitions. Embedded partitions may not be visible to the main OS and may host critical operations. A main partition may host a general-purpose OS and user applications, and may manage resources that are not assigned to the embedded partitions. Trustworthiness in the launch of the embedded partition is established by comparing integrity metrics for the runtime environment against integrity measurements of a trusted runtime environment for the embedded partition, e.g., by sealing a cryptographic key with the integrity metrics in a trusted platform module. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
| US08510852B2 |
Information processing apparatus, information recording medium manufacturing apparatus, information recording medium, method, and computer program
To provide an apparatus, a recording medium and a method for effectively preventing unauthorized use of a content. A content containing broken data different from correct content member data is recorded on an information recording medium. Furthermore, transform data, as the correct member data, to be substituted for the broken data, and a fix-up table storing setting position information of the content are recorded on the information recording medium. During the content playback process, the transform data is substituted for the content member data in accordance with the fix-up table recorded on the information recording medium. With this arrangement, even if the encryption key corresponding to the encrypted content recorded on the information recording medium is leaked, an apparatus unable to acquire the transform data cannot play back the content. Unauthorized use of the content is thus controlled. |
| US08510849B2 |
Data protection systems and methods
Systems and methods are provided for protecting electronic content from the time it is packaged through the time it is experienced by an end user. Protection against content misuse is accomplished using a combination of encryption, watermark screening, detection of invalid content processing software and hardware, and/or detection of invalid content flows. Encryption protects the secrecy of content while it is being transferred or stored. Watermark screening protects against the unauthorized use of content. Watermark screening is provided by invoking a filter module to examine content for the presence of a watermark before the content is delivered to output hardware or software. The filter module is operable to prevent delivery of the content to the output hardware or software if it detects a predefined protection mark. Invalid content processing software is detected by a monitoring mechanism that validates the software involved in processing protected electronic content. Invalid content flows can be detected by scanning the information passed across system interfaces for the attempted transfer of bit patterns that were released from an application and/or a piece of content management software. |
| US08510847B2 |
Method of providing digital rights management for music content by means of a flat-rate subscription
The invention enables digital music content to be downloaded to and used on a portable wireless computing device. An application running on the wireless device has been automatically adapted to parameters associated with the wireless device without end-user input (e.g. the application has been configured in dependence on the device OS and firmware, related bugs, screen size, pixel number, security models, connection handling, memory etc. This application enables an end-user to browse and search music content on a remote server using a wireless network; to download music content from that remote server using the wireless network and to playback and manage that downloaded music content. The application also includes a digital rights management system that enables unlimited legal downloads of different music tracks to the device and also enables any of those tracks stored on the device to be played so long as a subscription service has not terminated. |
| US08510846B1 |
Data encryption and isolation
A method of storing data for a computer application in a shared data store is disclosed. The method includes receiving a data submission from the computer application, receiving an encryption key from the computer application, encrypting the submitted data using the encryption key, and storing the data in encrypted form in a data store that is accessible to the computer application and other independent applications, and indexing the stored data in a shared index. |
| US08510844B2 |
Authorized content verification method, content transmission/reception system, transmitter, and receiver
In a system which attaches update information required to create a content key used for content encryption/decryption to encrypted content and transmits the encrypted content, there is used an authorized content verification method including a verification request step of, by a receiver, transmitting an authorization verification request including update information received from a transmitter, an update information check step of, by the transmitter, checking whether the update information included in the received authorization verification request is predetermined update information, a message-of-acceptance transmission step of creating a message of acceptance using the update information and an exchange key shared between the transmitter and the receiver and transmitting the message of acceptance if the update information matches the predetermined update information, and an authorized content determination step of, by the receiver, determining that content is authorized content on the basis of reception of the message of acceptance. |
| US08510837B2 |
Detecting rootkits over a storage area network
Embodiments of the invention improve the detection of malicious software applications, such as a rootkit, on hosts configured to access storage volumes over a storage area network (SAN). A rootkit detection program running on a switch may be configured to detect rootkits present on the storage volumes of the SAN. Because the switch may mount and access storage volumes independently from the (possibly comprised) hosts, the rootkit is not able to conceal itself from the rootkit detection program running on the switch. |
| US08510836B1 |
Lineage-based reputation system
A computer generates a reputation score for a file based at least in part on the lineage of the file. A security module on a client monitors file creations on the client and identifies a parent file creating a child file. The security module provides a lineage report describing the lineage relationship to a security server. The security server uses lineage reports from the client to generate one or more lineage scores for the files identified by the reports. The security server aggregates the lineage scores for files reported by multiple clients. The aggregated lineage scores are used by the security server to generate reputation scores for files. The reputation score for a file indicates a likelihood that the file is malicious. The security server reports the reputation scores to the clients, and the clients use the reputation scores to determine whether files detected at the clients are malicious. |
| US08510835B1 |
Techniques for protecting data in cloud computing environments
A client computer runs a communicator employed to connect to a server computer in a cloud. The communicator is updated on a regular basis to update its algorithms for processing raw data into secured data. The server computer receives and validates the secured data, and attempts to update the communicator if the secured data is invalid. The server computer may deem the client computer as being infected when the update is reinitiated a predetermined number of times. The raw data may be restructured, or encrypted using an encryption scheme where the key used for the encryption is not provided to the receiver of the data. The algorithm for data restructuring and encryption may be included in the update to the communicator. Communication between the client computer and the server computer may be on a dynamically selected channel indicated in a previous communication. |
| US08510834B2 |
Automatic signature propagation network
A distributed security system wherein intelligent security agents (i.e., agent devices) share security incident information between themselves via a controller. An adaptive security decision making involving network worms (non-SMTP worms) and DoS floods attacks is also described; wherein the Worms and DoS flood digital signatures are generated to assist in intrusion prevention process. |
| US08510830B2 |
Method and apparatus for efficient netflow data analysis
A flow based detection system for detecting networks attacks on data networks. Flow records are collected in a novel data structure that facilitates efficient sorting. The sorted data structure can be subsequently analyzed in an efficient manner to find out if the network is under attack. An attack is identified if the numbers of unique corresponding addresses or conversations are too large. |
| US08510828B1 |
Enforcing the execution exception to prevent packers from evading the scanning of dynamically created code
To detect possible malicious code that is unpacked at runtime before it is executed, antivirus software requires that any dynamically created code be scanned before it can be executed by a host computer system. This requirement may be enforced by requiring memory pages to be either executable or writable, but not both. Before changing from writable but not executable to executable but not writable, the page is scanned for malicious code. To prevent packers from evading this scanning, the software may enforce the execution exception to prevent packers from changing whether a page is executable and thereby evading the scanning of dynamically created code. The software may also include exception handlers to allow a program to write to a page that contains the code being executed, but also limit such an operation (e.g., to a single step) to avoid evasion of the antivirus software. |
| US08510827B1 |
Taint tracking mechanism for computer security
Mechanisms have been developed for securing computational systems against certain forms of attack. In particular, it has been discovered that, by maintaining and propagating taint status for memory locations in correspondence with information flows of instructions executed by a computing system, it is possible to provide a security response if and when a control transfer (or other restricted use) is attempted based on tainted data. In some embodiments, memory management facilities and related exception handlers can be exploited to facilitate taint status propagation and/or security responses. Taint tracking through registers of a processor (or through other storage for which access is not conveniently mediated using a memory management facility) may be provided using an instrumented execution mode of operation. For example, the instrumented mode may be triggered by an attempt to propagate tainted information to a register. In some embodiments, an instrumented mode of operation may be more generally employed. For example, data received from an untrusted source or via an untrusted path is often transferred into a memory buffer for processing by a particular service, routine, process, thread or other computational unit. Code that implements the computational unit may be selectively executed in an instrumented mode that facilitates taint tracking. In general, instrumented execution modes may be supported using a variety of techniques including a binary translation (or rewriting) mode, just-in-time (JIT) compilation/re-compilation, interpreted mode execution, etc. Using an instrumented execution mode and/or exception handler techniques, modifications to CPU hardware can be avoided if desirable. |
| US08510824B2 |
Method, system, subscriber equipment and multi-media server for digital copyright protection
A method for digital copyright protection includes stream media server negotiation with a copyright center to generate copyright object RO, RO carrying copyright service regulations and establishing encrypted communication channel information; subscriber equipment receiving RO, through the establishing encrypted communication channel information carried by RO to establish encrypted communication channel with stream media server; and stream media server transmitting media stream to subscriber equipment. The present disclosure also discloses a DRM system, subscriber equipment and multi-media server. |
| US08510819B2 |
System and method for managing and securing mobile devices
Systems and methods are provided for securing at least one mobile device. A server includes a controller and a non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions executable by the controller. The executable instructions are configured to perform a method in which a secure communications session is established with a user and the user is allowed to input a list of a plurality of security actions to be performed at a mobile device associated with the user. A secure communications session is established with the mobile device, and the list of the plurality of security actions is provided to the mobile device simultaneously as a single instruction set. |
| US08510817B1 |
Two-factor anti-phishing authentication systems and methods
A computerized method of providing access to a secure resource includes, to each of a plurality of authorized users, providing a link to the secure resource. Each link includes a unique password embedded therein and each unique password relates to a particular user identification (userID) and personal identification number (PIN). The method also includes receiving a request to access the resource using a link having a password embedded therein, which request originates at a web browser. The method further includes directing the browser to a login screen and receiving via the login screen a userID and PIN. The method also includes determining whether the userID and PIN relate to one another and to the password and allowing or denying access to the resource in accordance with the determination. |
| US08510816B2 |
Security device provisioning
The provisioning of a security token object to a user is disclosed. The security token object is used for accessing a computing resource through a client computer system. A security token object provisioning request may be received from the client computer system. In response, an authentication request may be transmitted. The user is authenticated against a user identity based upon a set of received identity credentials provided by the user. The extraction of a unique token identifier from the security token object is initiated, and completed without intervention from the user. The unique token identifier received from the client computer system is associated with to the user identity in a data store. By providing the security token object, the user can gain access to the computing resource. |
| US08510807B1 |
Real-time granular statistical reporting for distributed platforms
Some embodiments provide a reporting system for improved granular real-time performance statistics reporting in a distributed platform. The reporting system includes a statistic server and a portal. The statistics server is communicably coupled to servers of the distributed platform that produce statistical data related to the distribution of content and execution of services for different customers. The statistics server aggregates the statistical data from the plurality of servers in an optimized staggered manner during a recurring interval. This reduces the amount of statistical data that is passed at any particular instance in time from the servers the statistics servers. The statistics server incrementally updates a real-time performance report for a particular customer as the statistical data is aggregated for the particular customer so that the computational and memory overhead for deriving the performance report in real-time is reduce. The portal then presents the performance report to the particular customer. |
| US08510801B2 |
Management of access to service in an access point
System(s) and method(s) are provided to configure access rights to wireless resources and telecommunication service(s) supplied through a set of access points (APs). Access to wireless resources is authorized by access attributes in access control list(s) (ACL(s)) while a profile of service attributes linked to the ACL(s) regulate provision of telecommunication service(s). Access and service attributes can be automatically or dynamically configured, at least in part, in response to changes in data that directly or indirectly affects an operation environment in which the set of APs is deployed. Automatic or dynamic configuration of access or service attributes enable control or coordination of wireless service provided through the set of APs; degree of control or coordination is determined at least in part by enablement or disablement of disparate services for disparate devices at disparate access points at disparate times and with disparate service priority. |
| US08510800B2 |
Temporary user account for a virtual world website
A computer system and method are provided that facilitate permitting temporary access to a website or other computer application in which temporary access is given to a generic virtual character and its corresponding user. Temporary access is made available through a temporary user account that is set up by the user. The temporary user account is active for a limited time and allows the user to learn about the website, for instance, via the generic virtual character. The generic virtual character has limited access to the website and in particular to various activities or areas on the website. Unlike temporary user account holders, users who have purchased a real world item and have created premium user accounts have full access to the website via their corresponding premium virtual characters. In addition, the system and method prevent at least some interaction between the generic virtual characters and the premium virtual characters. |
| US08510793B2 |
Enhancing ENUM security
A method of providing telecommunication services includes generating fictitious contact information univocally associated with a telephone number assigned to a subscriber; and storing the fictitious contact information in a database, like an ENUM database. Responsive to a request, received from a requester, of a contact information corresponding to the telephone number and adapted to allow contacting over the Internet the subscriber assignee of the telephone number, the method includes having the database providing the fictitious contact information; and conditioning a resolution of the fictitious contact information for the provisioning of the contact information to the satisfaction of at least one security rule adapted to assess properties of at least one among the requester and the request. In a case that the request from the requester satisfies the at least one security rule, the method resolves the fictitious contact information and provides the requester with the contact information. |
| US08510789B2 |
Data output method, system and apparatus
Data to be output to a removable storage medium is encrypted for sending to an output device by an encryption process based on encryption parameters comprising public data of a trusted party and an encryption key string comprising a policy for allowing the output of the data. The trusted party provides a decryption key to the output device but only after being satisfied that the policy has been met. The decryption key is generated in dependence on the encryption key string and private data of the trusted party. The output device uses the decryption key in decrypting the data to be output. Embodiments are provided that involve multiple policies and trusted parties. |
| US08510788B2 |
Build profile for a set-top box
One embodiment of the present disclosure takes the form of a method for generating a profile of a build program for one or more set-top box platforms supported by a satellite distribution system. The one or more build profiles may maintain information about the one or more the modules and sub-modules of the build program, including but not limited to a memory address indicating the location of each module of the build program in the memory components of the set-top box. In another embodiment, the build profile may also maintain the relative offset address of each module of the build program from the beginning of the build program, an indicator of each module and sub-module and the amount of memory that each module comprises when stored in memory. |
| US08510785B2 |
Adaptive media caching for video on demand
A method and on-demand computing system for hierarchical caching of content in an on-demand computing device. The method receives, at the on-demand computing device, a request to send media content to a playback device, where the media content is stored in a media library of a content server. The method retrieves the media content from a hierarchical cache for the on-demand computing device, and sends the media content to the playback device. The hierarchical cache includes a first cache, a second cache, and the content library, where the first cache has a length based on an age of the second cache. |
| US08510783B2 |
Video on demand transmission/reception method and system using divided transport stream
Provided are a video on demand (VOD) transmission/reception method and system using a divided transport stream (TS). The VOD transmission method includes setting a division coefficient for dividing a TS; dividing the TS into a unicast segment and multicast segments according to the division coefficient; and transmitting the unicast segment by using a unicast method and transmitting the multicast segments by using a multicast method. |
| US08510781B2 |
Digital broadcasting system and method of processing data in digital broadcasting system
The present invention provides a data processing method includes receiving a broadcasting signal where mobile service data are multiplexed with main service data, extracting transmission-parameter-channel signaling information and fast-information-channel signaling information from a data group within the received mobile service data, parsing first program table information describing virtual channel information of an ensemble and a service provided by the ensemble using the fast-information-channel signaling information, the ensemble corresponding to a virtual channel group of the received mobile service data, obtaining permission information of broadcasting contents included in the mobile service data from the first program table information and controlling the contents included in the mobile service data in accordance with the permission information. |
| US08510780B2 |
Program guide navigation tools for media content access systems and methods
An exemplary system includes a media content processing subsystem configured to provide a program guide graphical user interface (“GUI”) to a display for presentation to a user, the program guide GUI including a portion of a program guide. The media content processing subsystem is further configured to provide at least one navigation tool to the display for presentation in the program guide GUI, the navigation tool including a plurality of selectable options for navigating the program guide. The media content processing subsystem is further configured to detect a user selection of one of the selectable options and initiate a navigation to a location in the program guide based on the selected option. In certain embodiments, the navigation tool includes at least one of a time-based navigation tool and a channel navigation tool. |
| US08510775B2 |
System and method for providing enhanced entertainment data on a set top box
Embodiments of the disclosed invention include an apparatus, method, and computer program product for distributing media content to a plurality of display devices. For instance, in one embodiment, a computer implemented method for distributing media content to a display device is disclosed. The method comprises configuring a middleware device to provide media content to the display device and to a set of display devices. In response to the middleware device receiving a request for media content from the display device, the method determines whether the there is sufficient bandwidth to provide a requested media content to the display device. In one embodiment, if the method determines that there is insufficient bandwidth to provide the requested media content to the display device, the method provides the requested media content to the display device based on a set of preconfigured user preferences. |
| US08510772B2 |
Filtering method and system
An alert generation method and system. The method includes receiving by a computer processor, alert data indicating filters for specified alert types associated with possible future events. The computer processor receives monitor definition data and media generated audio/video data; compares the alert data to the media generated audio/video data; determines a first alert type matches first audio/video data of the media generated audio/video data; and determines that the first audio/video data comprises a primary event. The computer processor broadcasts the primary event. |
| US08510771B2 |
Methods and apparatus for filtering content from a presentation stream using signature data
Described herein are methods and apparatus for the identification of locations in a presentation stream based on metadata associated with the presentation stream. Locations within a presentation stream are identified using signature data associated with the presentation stream. The identified locations within a presentation stream may be utilized to identify boundaries of segments within the presentation stream, such as segments of a show and interstitials (e.g., commercials) of the show. The identified portions of a presentation stream may then be utilized for filtering segments of content during presentation. |
| US08510769B2 |
Media content finger print system
A media device meeting an idleness criteria may be detected. In response to detecting an idleness criteria, media content may be sent to the media device. The media device may be configured to receive a particular content stream or streams accessible via the internet comprising the media content. The media device may derive a fingerprint from the media content and send the fingerprint to a fingerprint database, along with additional data pertaining to the media (such as title, synopsis, closed caption text, etc.). Detecting that a media device meets an idleness criteria may involve receiving a signal from the media device, the media device completing a duration of time without receiving a user command at the media device, or determining that the media content has resource availability for deriving a fingerprint. |
| US08510759B1 |
Scatter gather emulation
Systems and methods may provide for receiving a scatter/gather list that identifies a contiguous data block in a physical memory, and splitting the contiguous data block into a first data packet payload and a second data packet payload based on a target packet size. Additionally, another contiguous data block can be combined into one of the first and second data packet payloads based on the target packet size, wherein the first and second data packet payloads may be transferred in a data stream through a host interface that does not support scatter/gather lists. In one example, a software driver is used to split and combine the contiguous data blocks. |
| US08510756B1 |
Guest operating system code optimization for virtual machine
A system, method and computer program product for increasing efficiency of Guest OS code in a Virtual Machine, including installing a driver (Guest Tool) in the Virtual Machine; upon detection of an event in the Virtual Machine that could require a context switch to a Virtual Machine Monitor (VMM), intercepting the event; analyzing the event for whether the event can be handled in the VM and without a context switch; for those events that can be handled natively in the VM, replacing selected instructions with other instructions that accomplish the same task but do not require a context switch; for those events that cannot be handled natively in the VM, transferring control to the VMM; handling the event in the VMM; and returning control to the VM. |
| US08510750B2 |
Method for caching resource representations in a contextual address space
A method to generate and save a resource representation recited by a request encoded in a computer algorithm, wherein the method receives from a requesting algorithm an Unresolved resource request. The method resolves the resource request to an endpoint and evaluates the resolved resource request by the endpoint to generate a resource representation. The method further generates and saves in a cache at least one Unresolved request scope key, a resolved request scope key, and a cache entry comprising the resource representation. The method associates the cache entry with the resolved request scope key and with the at least one Unresolved request scope key using a mapping function encoded in the cache. |
| US08510747B2 |
Method and device for implementing load balance of data center resources
The present disclosure relates to a method and a device for implementing load balance of data center resources, and the method includes: obtaining current utilization ratios of properties of each physical machine in a scheduling domain, and determining, according to the current utilization ratios, physical machines that have residual capability satisfying a current allocation task, where the properties include a CPU load, a memory load and a network load; predicting a load degree of each of the physical machines on the assumption that the virtual machine is allocated by each of the physical machines; selecting, according to the predicted load degree of each of the physical machines, a physical machine from the physical machines to allocate the virtual machine. By adopting the solutions of the present disclosure, the problem of the load imbalance caused by the inconsistency of specification requirements of users and specifications of physical servers is solved. |
| US08510746B2 |
Obtaining and storing replaceable resource information for a unique resource
A set of data structures defines resource relationships and locations for a set of resources to form defined resource relationships and defined locations for the set of resources. A receiver obtains, from an unsecure device, replaceable unit data and characterization data for a current resource in the set of resources. A writer merges obtained replaceable unit data for a current resource with obtained characterization data for the current resource for each resource of the set of resources to form a set of data files. |
| US08510744B2 |
Using resource defining attributes to enhance thread scheduling in processors
A method for controlling a data processing system, a data processing system executing a similar method, and a computer readable medium with instructions for a similar method. The method includes receiving, by an operating system executing on a data processing system, an execution request from an application, the execution request including at least one resource-defining attribute corresponding to an execution thread of the application. The method also includes allocating processor resources to the execution thread by the operating system according to the at least one resource-defining attribute, and allowing execution of the execution thread on the data processing system according to the allocated processor resources. |
| US08510743B2 |
Terminating computer applications
The subject matter of this specification can be embodied in, among other things, a method that includes executing one or more computer applications and ranking the applications according to one or more criteria that change in response to a user's interaction with the applications. State information for certain of the one or more applications is saved and one or more applications are terminated in response to a memory condition. Subsequently, one of the terminated applications is revived using the saved state information. |
| US08510740B2 |
System and method of performing dynamic voltage and frequency scaling operations on a mobile device
A mobile device, a method for managing and exposing a set of performance scaling algorithms on the device, and a computer program product are disclosed. The mobile device includes a multiple-core processor communicatively coupled to a non-volatile memory. The non-volatile memory includes a set of programs defined by a respective combination of a performance scaling algorithm and a set of parameters, a startup program that when executed by the multiple-core processor identifies at least one member of the set of programs suitable for monitoring operation of the mobile device and scaling the performance of an identified processor core and an application programming interface that exposes the set of programs. |
| US08510739B2 |
Shared request grouping in a computing system
A queuing module is configured to determine the presence of at least one shared request in a request queue, and in the event at least one shared request is determined to be present in the queue; determine the presence of a waiting exclusive request located in the queue after the at least one shared request, and in the event a waiting exclusive request is determined to be located in the queue after the at least one shared request: determine whether grouping a new shared request with the at least one shared request violates a deferral limit of the waiting exclusive request; and, in the event grouping the new shared request with the at least one shared request does not violate the deferral limit of the waiting exclusive request, group the new shared request with the at least one shared request. |
| US08510737B2 |
Method and system for prioritizing tasks made available by devices in a network
A method and system that facilitates prioritization of tasks available through the devices in a home network. The tasks are user level descriptions of the high-level actions a user and underlying devices can perform. By prioritizing tasks for a user, the present invention aims to minimize the effort required to compare and comprehend the usefulness and feasibility of tasks. In doing so, the number of tasks possible to a user can be reduced and the highest priority task for a given user and device can be used by the application software as the suggested ‘most likely’ task for the user. |
| US08510727B2 |
Link-time redundant code elimination using functional equivalence
Duplicative code found in modules of high level computer code can be eliminated at link-time. A compiler forms a plurality of object files from a software program in which each object file includes one or more functions associated with the software program. An analyzer examines each function to ascertain whether any of the plurality of object files include functional duplicates. In addition, call and caller routing references are determined for each of the object files and functions contained therein. Responsive to determining that a functional equivalence exists, the routing of duplicative functions is altered to reference a golden copy of the same function. Once the call and caller information has been re-routed, the duplicative function(s) is(are) deleted. |
| US08510723B2 |
Binary rewriting without relocation information
A binary rewriter that can provide complete code coverage without relocation information is provided, together with a method of performing such rewriting. The method can include processing a binary file as an original binary file. The method can also include disassembling the binary file to provide a disassembled binary file. The method can further include rewriting the disassembled binary file without relocation information to provide a rewritten binary file. The rewriting can provide a physical transformation in a recording medium relative to the binary file in the recording medium prior to the rewriting. The processing the binary file, disassembling the binary file, and rewriting the disassembled binary file can be performed by a particular machine. |
| US08510722B2 |
Detecting data race and atomicity violation via typestate-guided static analysis
Mechanisms for analyzing computer instructions implementing a program in which typestate analysis is informed by concurrency analysis. The concurrency-guided typestate analysis may simulate the “worst case” scenario due to thread interleaving by transitioning a simulated state of the variable to a special state whenever the variable is not guarded by its intended guarding lock. While in the special state, the analysis may assume that the state of the simulated variable is the worst possible state with respect to processing operations that may lead to an error depending on the state of the variable. Thus, the analysis performed may assume that referencing the variable in a state-dependent operation while the simulated state of the variable is in the special state may lead to an error, and the analysis may generate a warning, accordingly. The analysis may process the computer instructions to infer which lock is intended to guard a shared variable. |
| US08510718B2 |
Platform verification portal
Described are computer-based methods and apparatuses, including computer program products, for a platform verification portal. A plurality of configuration items are stored with each comprising a plurality of verification commands capable of being executed by a verification scanning engine executing a verification scan on a target server to compare a set of actual software or configuration settings of the software against a desired software stack. A plurality of configuration item rules is stored. Execution of one or more verification scanning engines across a selected set of target servers is remotely initiated. A request for configuration items is received from each of the target servers. For each of the target servers a set of configuration items applicable to the target server is dynamically selected. For each of the target servers, a list identifying the set of configuration items is transmitted to the target server for execution by the verification scanning engine. |
| US08510717B2 |
Method and system for testing application modules using static tests from a test suite
A method and a system for validating a plurality of files via static tests from a test suite are described. The method includes selecting a plurality of static tests from a test suite, executing the plurality of static tests on a plurality of files to validate the plurality of files, and storing records after executing the plurality of static tests to record the validation of the plurality of files. The system includes an application, a plurality of files inside the application, the plurality of files to describe and configure the application, a plurality of static tests to validate the plurality of files, and a framework to apply the plurality of static tests to the plurality of files. |
| US08510714B2 |
Implementing integrated documentation and application testing
A method, apparatus, and computer program product to implement integrated documentation and functional application testing are provided. An integrated test engine drives both functional application testing and documentation testing for the application. The integrated test engine uses documentation instructions, which are embedded with metadata and represent how to automate each step in the documentation and the expected results, and runs a series of tests that ensure that the application works as expected and that the documentation accurately reflects how the application works. |
| US08510712B1 |
Testing in-container software objects
Various techniques for testing in-container software objects are disclosed. For example, one method involves invoking a proxy method of a proxy object within a testing process. In response to the proxy method of the proxy object being invoked, a request is sent to a container, which is separate from the testing process. The request includes a request to invoke a method of an object within the container. The proxy object represents the object within the container. The proxy object can be used to test the corresponding object, which is represented by the proxy object, within the container. |
| US08510707B1 |
Mainframe-based web service development accelerator
An interactive computer architecture is provided that can be employed as a bridge between a mainframe-based computing environment and a distributed server-based computing environment. A request/reply contract can be expressed within the mainframe-based environment and employed as the basis for generating a web service in the distributed computing environment. |
| US08510703B1 |
Method and mechanism for implementing PCB routing
A method and system for auto-routing wiring within a PCB. In some embodiment, a first broad region within a first layer and a counterpart first broad region within a second layer are defined. The counterpart regions define a first broad via location. In some embodiments, the first and second broad via locations of the first and second layers can then be subdivided into a plurality of triangular regions. The triangular regions on the first and second layers can then be compared to more accurately locate an appropriate via location. |
| US08510699B1 |
Performance driven layout optimization using morphing of a basis set of representative layouts
Techniques for generating variants of a circuit layout and evaluating quality of the variants are provided. In one aspect, a method for generating at least one variant layout for a cell design includes the following steps. At least a first basis layout and a second basis layout are obtained for the cell design, each having a plurality of shapes, each of the shapes being a polygon having a plurality of sides and vertices. One or more of the shapes in the first basis layout are linked with one or more of the shapes in the second basis layout that represent a common feature of the cell design resulting in a plurality of linked shapes. Starting with either the first basis layout or the second basis layout, a location of the vertices of each of the linked shapes are changed to produce the variant layout for the cell design. |
| US08510697B2 |
System and method for modeling I/O simultaneous switching noise
The invention generally relates to systems and methods for modeling I/O simultaneous switching noise, and, more particularly, to systems and methods for modeling I/O simultaneous switching noise in a selected chip window area while accounting for the effect of current sharing among neighbors. A method includes determining a current sharing factor of areas of an integrated circuit (IC) chip package, and determining an offload scaling factor of the IC chip package based upon the current sharing factor and numbers of I/O devices in neighboring areas of the IC chip package. |
| US08510693B2 |
Changing abstraction level of portion of circuit design during verification
A design verification method is disclosed. A computer searches for a path in accordance with a connection relationship between blocks by referring to a netlist stored in a storage part based on terminal information concerning a verification of a circuit which is formed by the blocks. Then, the computer changes an abstraction level of an operation of an out-of-path block which is a block outside the path and is searched for from the blocks described in the netlist. |
| US08510692B2 |
Verification system and method using constrained random test parameter selection
A software program for verifying a system design having at least one integrated circuit chip. The software program, when executed by a processor, result in obtaining a random value for a variable; selecting an unused value for the variable based upon the random value, the variable not having been assigned the unused value during one or more prior verification tests; and creating a new verification test for the system using the unused value for the variable. In this way, the new verification test is created in which variables falling within a random class are more efficiently used. |
| US08510689B1 |
Method and system for implementing context simulation
A method, system, and computer program product are disclosed for using pattern-dependent models at early stages of the design process. This addresses the key disadvantage of prior approaches which are restricted to using such models later in the design process for IC designs that are nearly complete. Pattern-dependent manufacturing effects are extracted from early stage designs and using the extracted pattern-dependent effects to efficiently and effectively design the integrated circuit. One or more contexts are built around one or more units of the design, with examples of units being a block or cell. The units are then used in the context to generate pattern-dependent data as a basis for one or more pattern-dependent models. |
| US08510688B1 |
Method and apparatus for performing multiple stage physical synthesis
A method for designing a system on a target device includes entering the system. The system is synthesized. The system is mapped. The system is placed on the target device. The system is routed. Physical synthesis is performed on the system immediately after more than one of the entering, synthesizing, mapping, placing and routing procedures. |
| US08510686B2 |
Inverse lithography for high transmission attenuated phase shift mask design and creation
Various implementations of the invention provide for generation of a high transmission phase shift mask layout through inverse lithography techniques. In various implementations of the present invention, a set of mask data having a plurality of pixels is generated. The transmission value associated with each pixel may then be determined through an inverse lithography technique. With various implementations of the invention, the inverse lithography technique identifies an objective function, minimizes the objective function in relation to a simulation of the optical lithographic process, such that the transmission value, which is greater than 6%, may be determined. |
| US08510684B2 |
Method of forming a photomask layout using optical proximity correction to compensate for a three-dimensional mask effect
A method of forming a layout of a photomask includes receiving a layout of a mask pattern, obtaining image parameters of a two-dimensional (2D) layout mask from a simulation, obtaining image parameters of a three-dimensional (3D) layout mask from a simulation, and obtaining differences between the image parameters of the 2D and 3D masks. The differences between the image parameters of the 2D and 3D masks can be compensated by convolving a probability function with respect to an open area, represented by a visible kernel function, with a mask function to produce a first function, convolving a probability function with respect to a blocked area, represented by a visible kernel function, with the mask function to produce a second function, and summing the first function and the second function to produce a compensated vector. The layout of the mask pattern can be corrected using the compensated vector. |
| US08510682B2 |
Unifying navigation model
Systems and techniques to provide a unifying navigation model with a navigation service that provides an interface to information sources. In general, in one implementation, the technique includes: uniting navigation hierarchies from different application sources, and providing a unified navigation area based on the united navigation hierarchy. Uniting the navigation hierarchies can involve supplying a navigation service with a navigation object model that provides, to a presentation layer, a homogeneous view of navigation information from the different application sources. Providing the unified navigation area can involve displaying a navigation window in a portal presentation, the navigation window including navigation links to resources of the different application sources, and the navigation links being organized according to the united navigation hierarchy. |
| US08510681B2 |
RFID reader integration to virtual world monitoring
Disclosed is a virtual world server receives an update signal corresponding to an RFID tag. The virtual world server determines an RFID tag identifier, an RFID reader identifier, and an associated asset name from the update. The virtual world server looks up a virtual area associated with the RFID reader identifier. The virtual world server teleports a virtual asset associated with the RFID tag identifier to a virtual area in the virtual world. The virtual world server renders a model of the asset in a virtual world based on an avatar perspective. |
| US08510679B2 |
Object mapping tool with easy connection discovery
In an object development environment, source objects in a structured hierarchy are mapped to one or more target objects, also in a structured hierarchy. Dual view user interfaces with connection mapping tools may be provided to facilitate creation, deletion and maintenance of these mappings. The invention includes an improvement by providing a context menu as a fly-out menu from a particular object. The context menu may include global functions and a list of connected objects, each with supplemental object-specific functions. |
| US08510670B2 |
Information processing apparatus, information processing method thereof, and computer-readable storage medium
An information processing apparatus inputs instructed coordinates to a display screen, and selects an object displayed at a coordinate position that corresponds to the input coordinates. When a drag operation for the object that was selected by the selection unit has been detected, a determination is made of whether or not the distance between the coordinate position of the selected object and input coordinates after the drag operation was detected exceeds a predetermined distance. If that distance does not exceed the predetermined distance, a moving amount of the object is made less than a moving amount of the drag operation, or the selected object is not moved. |
| US08510667B2 |
Automated floodplain encroachment computation
A method, apparatus, and article of manufacture provide the ability to define a floodplain encroachment. River reach and station information are received into a geographic information system (GIS). Floodplain encroachment values are defined using a graphical user interface (GUI). The GUI provides a simultaneous view of station identifiers for each station for which the floodplain encroachment is to be defined, profiles defined for each of the station identifiers, a method identification corresponding to each of the defined profiles, and a target water surface elevation change for each profile. The values are provided to a HEC-RAS engine which outputs analysis results that are simultaneously displayed in the GUI with the other information. The analysis results include a water surface elevation change, a top width, and a velocity for each profile-station pair. Users can modify the values and dynamically view the results from HEC-RAS in the GUI. |
| US08510664B2 |
Method and system for displaying email thread information
A method and apparatus for discerning and displaying an email-thread chart of senders and recipients (“senders/recipients”) included in an email thread, are disclosed. The email-thread chart may include the senders/recipients arranged in chronological order matching the order in which individual related emails, included in the email thread, were sent and received (the sending/receiving of related emails is hereinafter referred to as “transactions”). The email-thread chart may further include the date-and-time-stamp of the transactions and the labeling of the transactions by transaction type (e.g. “Cced”, “forwarded”, “replied”, etc.) The senders/recipients may be discerned from the body of the email. The body of the email may contain quoted text containing the email thread. The email-thread chart may be displayed automatically in response to a user's attempt to send the email to a remote user, or in automatic response to any other user action. The email-thread chart may include a graphical user interface (“GUI”) and may allow the user to select one of the senders/recipients displayed, and to perform numerous functions related to the selected senders/recipients (e.g. delete all references to the selected sender/recipient from the email thread, etc.) |
| US08510662B1 |
Effects framework for GUI components
Methods for rendering effects of graphical components of a graphical user interface are provided. One method includes defining a screen display having one or more components. The method also includes defining a start state for at least one of the one or more components and defining an end state for at least one of the one or more components. An operation of determining if a component identified for transition includes a defined start state and a defined end state is also provided. The method determines a transition type for the component that that has the defined start state and the defined end state and identifies an effect type based on the determined transition type. To render, the method includes (a) altering a graphics state at a time interval and (b) painting the component for the identified graphics state at the time interval. The method repeats (a)-(b) until the graphics state matches the defined end state. The component is then rendered at the defined end state using a particular defined transition effect. |
| US08510661B2 |
End to end response enabling collection and use of customer viewing preferences statistics
Targeted advertisements with associated dynamic content for response and feedback embedded into the ad's header are delivered to mobile viewing devices. The mobile viewing device records a user's response to advertisements and reports it back to an ad serving platform. The ad serving platform generates user profiles that incorporate the response data. Ads are further targeted to the user according to the user's profile data to maximize the impact of the ads. The user can select the preferred format for providing advertisement feedback. |
| US08510654B2 |
Techniques for shuffling video information
An apparatus, system, method, and article for shuffling video information are described. The apparatus may include a media processing node to receive video information. The media processing node may include a shuffling module to shuffle the video information according to a shuffle order and a trusted entity programmed based on the shuffle order to provide access to the video information. The video information may be provided in an unshuffled manner when accessed through the trusted entity. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
| US08510651B1 |
Page editing and trial of network site
Disclosed are various embodiments for facilitating a user to design and test a layout to a network merchant site. One embodiment of such a method describes presenting at a display device a graphical interface to edit a layout of a network page in at least one graphical pane; receiving a selection of parameters to a trial experiment of one or more modifications made to the layout of a version of the network page designed in the graphical pane(s); and tracking at least one metric for the version of the network page designed in the graphical pane(s) based on interactions with the first sample class of users. |
| US08510644B2 |
Optimization of web page content including video
A system and method for optimizing content of a web page is disclosed. The system comprises a configuration analysis module, a request analysis module, an analytics module and an optimization module that are communicatively coupled to each other. The configuration analysis module receives first and second sets of web interaction data associated with a web page and determines first and second content configurations for the first and second sets of web interaction data, respectively. The request analysis module receives first and second requests for the first and second content configurations, respectively, and extracts a first set of event data from the first request and a second set of event data from the second request. The analytics module generates a first set and a second set of video-aware analytics data. The optimization module optimizes the content of the web page based at least in part on video-aware analytics data. |
| US08510640B2 |
Method for transmitting a digital signal between at least two transmitters and at least one receiver, using at least one relay, and corresponding program product and relay device
A method is provided for transmitting a digital signal between at least two transmitters and at least one receiver, using a concatenation of at least two codes. The method includes a first encoding step, in the transmitters, which outputs at least two first code words; a first transmission step of the first code words, via at least two distinct transmission channels; a receiving step, in at least one relay device, of at least two of the first code words, known as intermediate code words; a step of intertwining at least one part of the bits of the intermediate code words that outputs the intertwined bits; a second step of encoding the intertwined bits, in the relay(s), which outputs at least one second code word, taking into consideration the intermediate code words; a second step of transmitting the second code word(s) through the relay device(s), so as to enable, in the receiver(s), an iterative decoding, taking into account the first code words, and then a redundancy formed by the second code word(s). |
| US08510639B2 |
System and method for multi-dimensional encoding and decoding
A system and method for decoding multi-dimensional encoded data. A set of multi-dimensional encoded data may be received encoding each input bit in a set of input bits by multiple different component codes in multiple different encoding dimensions. The multi-dimensional data may potentially have errors. A map may be used to locate each set of intersection bits that encode the same input bit by multiple unsolved component codes. The unsolved component codes may be decoded using one or a plurality of tested error correction hypotheses that yields a decoding success, where each hypothesis correcting a different set of intersection bits for a different input bit. The successful hypothesis may be applied for correcting the multi-dimensional encoded data. |
| US08510637B2 |
Data reading method, memory storage apparatus and memory controller thereof
A data reading method for a writable non-volatile memory module having physical pages is provided. The method includes grouping the physical pages into a plurality of physical page groups. The method also includes reading first data from a physical page of a first physical page group by applying a first threshold voltage set. The method still includes, when the first data can be corrected by an error checking and correcting circuit and an error bit number corresponding to the first data is not smaller than an error bit number threshold, calculating compensation voltages for the first threshold voltage set. The method further includes adjusting the first threshold voltage set by the compensation voltages and applying the adjusted first threshold voltage set to read data from the physical pages of the first physical page group. Accordingly, data stored in the rewritable non-volatile memory module can be correctly read. |
| US08510629B2 |
Memory module on which regular chips and error correction chips are mounted
Regular chip packages that store user data therein and error-correction chip packages that store an error correction code therein are mounted on a module substrate. The module substrate has first and second mounting areas of different coordinates in an X direction, and the second mounting area has third and fourth mounting areas of different Y coordinates. The regular packages are oppositely arranged in the first mounting area on a surface and the back surface of the module substrate. The error-correction chip packages are oppositely arranged in the third mounting area on the surface and the back surface of the module substrate. A memory buffer that buffers user data and an error correction code is arranged in the fourth mounting area. |
| US08510628B2 |
Method and apparatuses for customizable error correction of memory
Described herein are a method and apparatuses for providing customizable error correction for memory arrays. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a memory device having a memory array to store data and an analog to digital sense unit coupled to the memory array. The analog to digital sense unit senses analog signals associated with the memory array and converts the analog signals into distributions of digital values. An error-correcting code (ECC) unit receives the distributions of digital values from the analog to digital sense unit. A configurable non-volatile look-up table generates ECC parameters including error probability data and provides the ECC parameters to the ECC unit for error correction. The error probability data has error probability values that are associated with the distributions of digital values. The ECC unit executes an ECC algorithm to provide error correction using the error probability data. |
| US08510623B2 |
Encoder, transmission device, and encoding process
An encoder for successively receiving a plurality of data blocks and encoding each of the plurality of data blocks includes a plurality of element encoding units and a switch unit. The switch unit distributes each of the plurality of data blocks among the plurality of element encoding units. The plurality of element encoding units determine initial states of the plurality of element encoding units by using the plurality of data blocks, and encode the plurality of data blocks on the basis of the initial states. |
| US08510616B2 |
Scalable scan-based test architecture with reduced test time and test power
A scalable scan-based architecture with reduced test time, test power and test pin-count in scan based testing of ICs. In an embodiment, a test vector is scanned serially into a functional memory element at a first frequency, which then de-multiplexes the bits in the test vector to multiple sub-chains at a lower frequency. Due to the use of lower frequency to scan-in, the power dissipation is reduced. Due to the use of the higher frequency to scan-in the test vector as well as multiple sub-chains, the test time is reduced. Due to the use of the functional memory elements for scanning in the test vector at higher frequency, any number of chains can potentially be supported. |
| US08510615B2 |
Virtual repair of digital media
Embodiments described herein are directed to a virtual repair of digital media using a virtual repair service. Digital media stored on a digital media device is read using a media player. A request is received by a virtual repair unit from the media player to perform a virtual repair of a segment of unreadable digital content of the digital media. The virtual repair unit retrieves a readable copy of the digital content corresponding to the segment of unreadable digital content identified in the request from a media repository using the virtual repair unit. The virtual repair unit transmits the readable copy of the digital content to the media player for insertion into a buffer of the media player. |
| US08510606B2 |
Method and apparatus for SAS speed adjustment
A method for maintaining reliable communication between a command initiator and a target device is provided. After the command initiator detects an error corresponding to the target device and a path between the command initiator and the target device, the command initiator performs a downshift evaluation. The initiator maintains a transmission speed if the downshift evaluation determines that forgoing a transmission speed downshift is required, and reduces the transmission speed if the downshift evaluation determines that transmission speed downshift is required. The command initiator then logs the downshift evaluation result and reports any transmission speed change to a user. |
| US08510605B2 |
Computer system inspecting defective cell and control method thereof
A computer system having a plurality of devices including a data storage part which includes a plurality of cells to store data, and a controller to inspect whether there is a defective cell in the data storage part if a condition to execute a cell inspection function is met, and sets the defective cell to be assigned to one of the devices if a defective cell is found. |
| US08510599B2 |
Managing processing associated with hardware events
Detection, notification and/or processing of events, such as errors associated with adapters, are facilitated. Hardware detects an event, places one or more adapters in an error state to prevent access to/from the adapters, and notifies the operating system of the event. |
| US08510598B2 |
Buffer management method and apparatus for power reduction during flush operation
A method for providing reduced power consumption in a computer memory system is provided. The method includes transferring, by a memory controller coupled to a volatile memory, a non-volatile memory, and a buffer, first data from the volatile memory to the buffer. The buffer stores less data than the volatile memory and the non-volatile memory. The method also includes placing the volatile memory into self-refresh mode after transferring the first data to the buffer. The method further includes conveying the first data from the buffer to the non-volatile memory, where the amount of first data exceeds a predetermined threshold. While conveying the first data, the memory controller takes the volatile memory out of self-refresh mode when the amount of first data in the buffer reaches the predetermined threshold. The volatile memory is ready to transfer second data to the buffer when the memory controller is finished transferring the first data. |
| US08510596B1 |
System and methods for run time detection and correction of memory corruption
A method or apparatus detects a memory corruption of at least one portion of memory during run-time and corrects the memory corruption of the at least one portion of memory by replacing the at least one portion of memory with a backup of the at least one portion of memory. In this way, memory corruption can be corrected in a timely fashion while minimizing security risks. |
| US08510591B2 |
System and method for providing media server redundancy in a network environment
A method is provided in one example embodiment and includes evaluating an active state of a media server configured to capture a media stream from one or more media sources. The method also includes determining a failure associated with the media server, and activating a failover media server to receive the media stream based on the failure. The method further includes replicating configuration data associated with the media server that experienced the failure. The configuration data can be provisioned in a suitable database. The failover media server is configured using the configuration data. |
| US08510590B2 |
Method and system for cluster resource management in a virtualized computing environment
Methods and systems for cluster resource management in virtualized computing environments are described. VM spares are used to reserve (or help discover or otherwise obtain) a set of computing resources for a VM. While VM spares may be used for a variety of scenarios, particular uses of VM spares include using spares to ensure resource availability for requests to power on VMs as well as for discovering, obtaining, and defragmenting the resources and VMs on a cluster, e.g., in response to requests to reserve resources for a VM or to respond to a notification of a failure for a given VM. |
| US08510584B1 |
Ultra low power sleep mode
An integrated circuit in accordance with one embodiment of the invention can include a plurality of storage elements that can be coupled in a first mode and a second mode. The first mode includes the plurality of storage elements being coupled to enable normal operation of the integrated circuit, and the second mode includes the plurality of storage elements being coupled together as a shift register. The integrated circuit also includes a rewritable non-volatile memory and a sleep controller that is coupled to the rewritable non-volatile memory. The sleep controller is for switching the plurality of storage elements between the first mode and the second mode. The sleep controller is for extracting data from the plurality of storage elements in the second mode and storing the data with the non-volatile memory to record the operating state of the plurality of storage elements in the first mode. |
| US08510583B2 |
Asynchronous sleep mode for host controller
Embodiments of the invention utilize a universal serial bus (USB) host controller to traverse an asynchronous data transfer list to identify data transfers to execute. The asynchronous data transfer list may include a plurality of header nodes, each header node to identify data transfers to one of a plurality of devices operatively coupled to an electronic device. The USB host controller may execute an extended sleep mode in response to identifying no data transfers to execute and receiving an indication that the system processor is in a sleep state. The USB host controller may exit the extended sleep mode in response to receiving an indication that the processor is in non-sleep state. |
| US08510579B2 |
Power supply system with energy-saving function
A power supply system includes a power supply, a switch control circuit, a voltage rectifying circuit, and a trigger switch connected to the switch control circuit. The switch control circuit is connected between an alternating current (AC) power source and the power supply. The voltage rectifying circuit is connected between the AC power source and the switch control circuit to rectify an AC voltage into a direct current (DC) voltage to power the switch control circuit. When the computer system is powered off, the power supply fails to output a system voltage, and the trigger switch fails to be triggered, the switch control circuit disconnects the power supply from the AC power source. When the computer system is powered off, the power supply fails to output a system voltage, and the trigger switch is triggered, the switch control circuit connects the power supply to the AC power source. |
| US08510578B2 |
Line-card disabling for power management
A power management apparatus is configured to manage a switch having line-cards with ports. The management apparatus includes a tracking module configured to track activity for each port in a line-card in the switch, and a control module configured to determine whether the line-card is to be disabled. The management apparatus also includes output module configured to initiate a deactivation process for the line-card if all the ports are inactive. |
| US08510575B2 |
Powering on local server using content list
A local server 200 transmits power supply ON information C as a content list to the local reproduction device 300 in the power OFF mode, the power supply ON information requesting a transition to the power ON mode. The local server 200 receives a power supply ON request from the local reproduction device 300, the power supply ON request indicating that the power supply ON information has been selected. The local server 200 causes a transition from the power OFF mode to the power ON mode in response to the power ON request. |
| US08510573B2 |
System and method for encrypting secondary copies of data
A system and method for encrypting secondary copies of data is described. In some examples, the system encrypts a secondary copy of data after the secondary copy is created. In some examples, the system looks to information about a data storage system, and determines when and where to encrypt data based on the information. |
| US08510570B2 |
System and method for authenticating a gaming device
A method and system are provided for authenticating and securing an embedded device using a secure boot procedure and a full non-volatile memory encryption process that implements Elliptic Curve Pinstov-Vanstone Signature (ECPV) scheme with message recovery on a personalized BIOS and master boot record. The signature includes code that is recovered in order to unlock a key that is in turn used to decrypt the non-volatile memory. The use of ECPVS provides an implicit verification that the hardware is bound to the BIOS since the encrypted memory is useless unless properly decrypted with the proper key. |
| US08510566B1 |
Authentic time-stamping for archival storage
A computer system to authenticate documents periodically appending a hash representing a document to a data structure, the data structure configured to store one or more hashes and creating a commitment for the data structure at pre-established intervals by creating a digest of the one or more hashes of the of the data structure, wherein the size of the commitment is constant regardless of the number of hashes in the data structure. A method, system, and computer product for verifying the existence of a document comprising postulating a state of existence of the document, obtaining, from a server, a proof of existence of the document at a time T, obtaining, from a trusted medium, a commitment for time T, and testing the postulate by determining whether there is a pre-established correspondence between the proof obtained from the server and the commitment obtained from the trusted medium, wherein a successful determination establishes the postulate is true and wherein a negative comparison establishes the postulate is false. |
| US08510565B2 |
Bidirectional entity authentication method based on the credible third party
A bidirectional entity authentication method based on the credible third party includes the steps that: entity A receives message 1 sent from entity B including the authentication parameters of said entity B, and sends message 2 to the credible third party TP, said message 2 including the authentication parameters of entity B and the authentication parameters of entity A; entity A receives message 3 sent from said credible third party TP, said message 3 including the checking result after checking that whether said entity A and entity B are legal based on said message 2 by said credible third party TP; entity A gets the authentication result of entity B after authenticating said message 3, and sends message 4 to said entity B to make entity B authenticating based on said message 4 and getting the authentication result of entity A. The invention simplifies the operation condition of the protocol, reduces the computing capability requirement of the authentication entity, and satisfies the high security requirement of the network device lack of resource. |
| US08510563B2 |
Communication apparatus
A communication apparatus includes: a first storage unit storing a certification authority certificate; a verification unit verifying an electronic signature attached to a first electronic mail received by a receiving unit from a mail server based on the certification authority certificate; an output unit outputting the first electronic mail when a verification result of the verification unit is positive; a deletion unit deleting the first electronic mail from the mail server; a notification unit notifying a user of information regarding a specific certification authority when a specific certification authority certificate is not stored in the first storage unit; an acquiring unit acquiring the specific certification authority certificate; and a storage control unit storing the acquired specific certification authority certificate. The receiving unit again receives the first electronic mail. The verification unit verifies an electronic signature attached to the again received first electronic mail based on the certification authority certificate. |
| US08510558B2 |
Identity based authenticated key agreement protocol
A key agreement protocol between a first party and a second party comprises the following steps from the first party perspective. An encrypted first random key component is sent to the second party, the first random key component being encrypted using a public key of the second party in accordance with an identity based encryption operation. An encrypted random key component pair is received from the second party, the random key component pair being formed from the first random key component and a second random key component computed at the second party, and encrypted at the second party using a public key of the first party in accordance with the identity based encryption operation. The second random key component, in encrypted form, is sent to the second party, the second random key component being encrypted using the public key of the second party. A key for use in subsequent communications between the first party and the second party is computable at the first party based on the second random key component. The key may be computed at the second party based on the first random key component. |
| US08510554B2 |
Key management system, key management method, server apparatus and program
Disclosed is a key management system including plural terminal devices and a server. Each of the terminal devices includes: authentication means for authenticating a user and acquiring user information; delivery key registration means for registering a delivery key linked to the user information based on corresponding information, transmitted from the server, between the user information and the delivery key; encryption key receiving means for receiving an encryption key using the delivery key. The server includes terminal information storage means for storing the terminal identification information, user information on the user utilizing the terminal device and the delivery key, wherein the terminal identification information, the user information and the delivery key are linked to each other; and encryption key delivering means for transmitting the encryption key using the delivery key linked to the user information on the user performing secret communication. |
| US08510551B1 |
Policy handling for multicast transmissions
A device, receives a unicast packet designating a unicast source and a unicast destination, and determines whether the received unicast packet is a Data Register message. The device extracts information relating to a multicast packet encapsulated within the unicast packet when the unicast packet is a Data Register message, and performs a security policy lookup based on the extracted multicast packet information to identify a security policy associated with the multicast packet. The device determines whether the identified security policy authorizes forwarding of the unicast packet, and establishes a multicast data session when the identified security policy authorizes forwarding of the unicast packet. The device establishes a multicast control session based on the multicast data session, where the multicast control session authorizes transmission of PIM-related control messages associated with the multicast packet. The device forwards the unicast packet to the unicast destination based on the multicast data session. |
| US08510549B2 |
Transmission of packet data over a network with security protocol
A method, device, system and computer program for providing a transport distribution scheme for a security protocol are disclosed. A first packet data connection is established to a remote node for transmitting packet data over a network with a security protocol. An authentication procedure is performed with the remote node via the first packet data connection for establishing a security protocol session with the remote node. At least one security parameter is negotiated with the remote node for transmitting packets through the first packet data connection. A second packet data connection is established to the remote node, and at least one security parameter is negotiated with the remote node for use with the second packet data connection. The first and second packet data connections are handled as packet data subconnections associated with the security protocol session. |
| US08510541B2 |
Information processing apparatus and method that establishes communication and outputs a black-screen signal during a predicted power-on period
An information processing apparatus includes a main switch configured to receive on/off-instructions for power supply from a user, a predicting section configured to predict a time period during which a possibility that the main switch receives an on-instruction is high, a connector section capable of connecting an electronic apparatus including a display screen, a communication establishing section configured to execute processing to establish a state allowing communication with an electronic apparatus connected to the connector section, a black-screen output section capable of outputting a black-screen signal to the electronic apparatus via the connector section, and a startup section configured to start, during a time period predicted by the predicting section and when the main switch is off, the communication establishing section and the black-screen output section, and to cause the black-screen output section to continue to output the black-screen signal until the main switch is turned on. |
| US08510539B2 |
Spilling method involving register files based on communication costs and use ratio
A spilling method in register files for a processor is proposed. The processor with Parallel Architecture Core structure includes multiple clusters and a memory. Each cluster includes multiple function units (M-Unit and I-Unit), multiple local register files and a global register file. The local register files are used by the multiple function units, respectively. For a specified live range, the method includes calculating communication costs of the local register files and the global register file in each cluster, and communication cost of the memory for spilling the live range when spilling occurs; calculating use ratios of the local register files and the global register file in each cluster, and use ratio of the memory for the live range; and selecting one of the local register files and the global register file in each cluster and the memory for spilling the live range based on the communication costs and use ratios. |
| US08510538B1 |
System and method for limiting the impact of stragglers in large-scale parallel data processing
A large-scale data processing system and method including a plurality of processes, wherein a master process assigns input data blocks to respective map processes and partitions of intermediate data are assigned to respective reduce processes. In each of the plurality of map processes an application-independent map program retrieves a sequence of input data blocks assigned thereto by the master process and applies an application-specific map function to each input data block in the sequence to produce the intermediate data and stores the intermediate data in high speed memory of the interconnected processors. Each of the plurality of reduce processes receives a respective partition of the intermediate data from the high speed memory of the interconnected processors while the map processes continue to process input data blocks an application-specific reduce function is applied to the respective partition of the intermediate data to produce output values. |
| US08510528B2 |
Differential data storage based on predicted access frequency
Apparatus, systems, and methods may operate to classify storage locations in a storage medium according to at least three response time grades, to classify data to be stored in the storage locations according to at least three access frequency grades, and to migrate the data between the storage locations according to a predicted access frequency assigned to preemptive allocations of some of the storage locations, based on the response time grade and the access frequency grade associated with the data prior to migration. Other apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed. |
| US08510526B2 |
Storage apparatus and snapshot control method of the same
[Problem] Providing a storage apparatus and a snapshot control method for the same for preventing, even after long-term operation of snapshots as a means for backup, an increase in the amount of pre-update data retained in a differential volume.[Solution] According to this invention, snapshots utilizing pre-update data are replaced with snapshots utilizing update data so that the areas, in the differential volume, storing the pre-update data are released as free areas correspondingly, thereby avoiding accumulation of the pre-update data in the differential volume. |
| US08510525B2 |
Method of duplicating segmented data to multiple random accessible storage devices
A method of duplicating data to multiple random accessible storage devices has steps of reading one segment of source data having multiple segments, continuously detecting newly-connected random accessible storage devices, duplicating same segments to all connected random accessible storage devices, stopping duplicating the source data to any random accessible storage device that has stored all segments of the source data and repeating the steps from the beginning. When duplicating the source data to all connected random accessible storage devices, same segments of the source data are written to all connected random accessible storage devices. Therefore, a single writing task is proceeded in each writing session. The source data can be written to all random accessible storage devices at high speed. Consequently, efficiency of asynchronously duplicating data to multiple random accessible storage devices is increased. |
| US08510522B2 |
State transition management device and state transition management method thereof
A state transition management device includes a first terminal receiving a first signal based on a current state-number, a memory which stores a state transition rule and from which a plurality of subsequent state-number candidates are read out in accordance with the first signal, a plurality of first nodes revealing the plurality of subsequent state-number candidates, a second terminal receiving a second signal based on the current state-number, a selection method specifying unit which outputs a selection method specifying signal in accordance with the second signal, a second node revealing the selection method specifying signal, a event terminal receiving a event-signal based on an event, a third terminal receiving a third signal based on the current state-number, a selection circuit which selects a subsequent state-number from the plurality of subsequent number candidates in accordance with the event-signal and the third signal. |
| US08510519B2 |
Hybrid raid controller
Provided is a hybrid RAID controller for a storage device of a PCI-Express (PCI-e) type that supports a low-speed data processing speed for a host. Specifically, embodiments of this invention provide a hybrid RAID controller coupled to one or more (i.e., a set of) semiconductor storage device (SSD) memory disk units and one or more hard disk drive (HDD)/Flash memory units. Among other things, the SSD memory disk units and/or HDD/Flash memory units adjust a synchronization of a data signal transmitted/received between the host and a memory disk during data communications between the host and the memory disk through a PCI-Express interface and simultaneously support a high-speed data processing speed for the memory disk, thereby supporting the performance of the memory to enable high-speed processing in an existing interface environment at the maximum. |
| US08510516B2 |
Systems and methods for sharing media in a computer network
A computerized method for sharing removable storage media in a network, the method comprising associating, in an index entry, a first piece of removable storage media in a first storage device with at least a first storage policy copy and a second storage policy copy; copying, to the first piece of removable storage media, data associated with the first storage policy copy; and copying, to the first piece of removable storage media, data associated with the second storage policy copy. |
| US08510515B2 |
Storage system comprising multiple storage apparatuses with both storage virtualization function and capacity virtualization function
A first virtual storage and a second virtual storage share an external LU (Logical Unit) inside an external storage. The first virtual storage comprises a first LU, which comprises multiple first virtual areas and conforms to thin provisioning, and an external capacity pool, which is a storage area based on the external LU, and which is partitioned into multiple external pages, which are sub-storage areas. The second virtual storage comprises a second LU, which comprises multiple second virtual areas and conforms to thin provisioning. In a data migration from the first LU to the second LU, for a data migration from a first virtual area, to which an external page has been allocated, to a second virtual area, the first virtual storage notifies the second virtual storage of a migration-source address, which is an address of the first virtual area, and an external address, which is an address of the external page that has been allocated to this virtual area, and the second virtual storage stores a corresponding relationship between the notified migration-source address and external address. |
| US08510510B1 |
File cache optimization using element prioritization
A medium, system, and method are disclosed for implementing an in-memory inode cache. The cache stores inodes that include respective file metadata. The system includes a replacement module that prioritizes the inodes for replacement according to retention priorities for the inodes. The system also includes a prioritization module that is configured to increase the retention priority of a given inode in the cache in response to detecting a cache hit on the given inode and that the given inode meets one or more longevity criteria. |
| US08510508B2 |
Storage subsystem and storage system architecture performing storage virtualization and method thereof
Method for accessing data in a storage system architecture, the architecture comprises at least one disk array subsystem, comprising the following steps. Provide a SAS for managing a first and a second media extent (ME) the at least one subsystem. Obtain a location index corresponding to a host LBA via a BAT. Obtain a location information of a physical section located in the first ME corresponding to the location index via a physical section to virtual section cross-referencing functionality. Update the cross-reference in the cross-referencing functionality so that the location information obtained from the cross-referencing functionality corresponding to the location index is the location information of the second physical section. A host IO request addressing the host LBA accesses data in the second physical section utilizing the location information of the second physical section. |
| US08510507B2 |
Data storage mirroring using virtual mirror
There is provided a method and apparatus for implementing a virtual mirror of a primary storage device (106) on a secondary storage device (108). The method comprises providing a map (124a) for translating primary data storage locations on said primary storage device (106) to secondary data storage locations on said secondary storage device (106) and utilizing said map (124a) to enable data stored on said secondary storage device (108) to mirror data stored on said primary storage device (106). By providing such a method, the requirements of the primary and secondary disks (106, 108) can be decoupled such that a smaller secondary disk (108) could be used with a larger primary (106) which will not be filled to capacity. This reduces the unused capacity on the secondary disk (108) which would otherwise be wasted. Further, this approach allows for the replacement of the primary and secondary disks (106, 108) to be independent of each other, provided the size of the secondary disk (108) remains at least as large as the size of the data on the primary disk (106). |
| US08510503B2 |
Ring buffer circuit and control circuit for ring buffer circuit
Provided are a ring buffer circuit in which a data full state and a data empty state may be correctly detected without depending on whether read and write operations are synchronous or asynchronous with each other, and a control circuit for the ring buffer circuit. The ring buffer circuit includes: a read and write memory having addresses specified by N bits; a write address counter pointer and a read address counter pointer which are provided for the read and write memory to count (N+1)-bit gray codes; and write and read address converter circuits provided to convert the (N+1)-bit gray codes output from the write and read address counter pointers into N-bit addresses which may be directly designated as write and read addresses of the read and write memory. |
| US08510500B2 |
Device driver including a flash memory file system and method thereof and a flash memory device and method thereof
A device driver including a flash memory file system and method thereof and a flash memory device and method thereof are provided. The example device driver may include a flash memory file system configured to receive data scheduled to be written into the flash memory device, the flash memory file system selecting one of a first data storage area and a second data storage area within the flash memory device to write the received data to based upon an expected frequency of updating for the received data, the first data storage area configured to store data which is expected to be updated more often than the second data storage area. The example flash memory device may include a first data storage area configured to store first data, the first data having a first expected frequency for updating and a second data storage area configured to store second data, the second data having a second expected frequency of updating, the first expected frequency being higher than the second expected frequency. |
| US08510495B2 |
Cross-threaded memory system
In a data processing system, a buffer integrated-circuit (IC) device includes multiple control interfaces, multiple memory interfaces and switching circuitry to couple each of the control interfaces concurrently to a respective one of the memory interfaces in accordance with a path selection value. A plurality of requestor IC devices are coupled respectively to the control interfaces, and a plurality of memory IC devices are coupled respectively to the memory interfaces. |
| US08510494B2 |
USB 3.0 support in mobile platform with USB 2.0 interface
Memory associated with a mobile communication device, such as memory removably inserted into a memory card slot, may be accessed, in the alternative, by a mobile communication platform or by a remote USB host. A memory access module connected to the memory card slots is operative in one of two modes: a pass-through mode and a USB mode. In the pass-through mode, the memory card slots are directly connected, via switching circuits, to memory interfaces on the mobile communication platform. A USB interface on the mobile communication platform may additionally be connected, in pass-through mode, via a USB hub to a remote USB host. In the USB mode, the memory card slots are connected, via switching circuits, second memory interfaces, and a controller, to a USB hub supporting USB 3.0 transfer protocols, and accessible by a remote host. |
| US08510492B2 |
System and method for communication handshaking between a master processors and a slave processor
System and method for handshaking between first and second processors via a single wire connecting a first pin of the first processor and a second pin of the second processor are described. In one embodiment, the method comprises the first processor disabling an interrupt function on the first pin; and, subsequent to the disabling, interrupting the second processor by driving the first pin to a first logic level and then releasing the first pin to a second logic level. |
| US08510486B2 |
Data transfer device and data transfer method
A data transfer device and method include obtaining a compression ratio and a compression speed of data for each of a plurality of compression levels, obtaining a compression ratio of data for each of the compression levels, adding a predicted time required for the compression and a predicted time required for the transfer of the data for each of the compression levels to determine a compression level for which the added predicted time is shortest, compressing the data to be transferred at the determined compression level and transferring the compressed to a transfer destination. |
| US08510485B2 |
Low power digital interface
This relates to interface circuits for synchronous protocols which do not rely on a dedicated high frequency clock signal. Instead, the interface circuit may rely on a clock signal received over the interface from another device in order to transfer data between the interface and an internal buffer. Furthermore, the interface circuits can rely on a clock signal provided by a bus for a device the interface circuit is located in to transfer data between the internal buffer and the bus. The internal buffer can be, but is not limited to a FIFO. Alternatively, it can be a stack or another data structure. The internal buffer can be configured so that each of its multiple of cells is a shift register. Thus, a preparatory step of moving a byte of data from the buffer to a separate shift register can be avoided. |
| US08510482B2 |
Data processing system having peripheral-paced DMA transfer and method therefor
In a data processing system having a processor, a DMA controller, a peripheral, and a memory, a method includes initiating a DMA transfer between the peripheral and the memory, wherein the DMA transfer comprises N subsets of data to be transferred between the peripheral and the memory, N having a value of two or more; asserting, by the peripheral, an event status indicator each time an event is completed by the peripheral; in response to each assertion of the event status indicator, the peripheral, based on a data request enable signal from the DMA controller, performing one of asserting a data request signal provided to the DMA controller or providing an interrupt request to the processor; and in response to each assertion of the data request signal, the DMA controller initiating transfer of a next subset of data of the N subsets of data between the memory and the peripheral. |
| US08510481B2 |
Memory access without internal microprocessor intervention
A method and system for accessing a computer system memory without processor intervention is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes initiating a predetermined communication protocol between a first device and a second device, the first device including a first processor, a first memory and a first communication interface, the second device including a second processor, a second memory and a second communication interface. The predetermined communication protocol enables an access operation to be performed on the first or second memory without intervention by the first or second processor. In one embodiment, the predetermined communication protocol utilizes a plurality of predefined packet types which are identified by a packet header decoder. |
| US08510479B2 |
Input/output device with configuration, fault isolation and redundant fault assist functionality
A process control system is provided having a plurality of I/O devices in communication using a bus. A primary redundant I/O device and a secondary redundant I/O device are coupled to the bus, where the secondary redundant I/O device is programmed to detect a primary redundant I/O device fault. The secondary redundant I/O device, upon detecting the primary redundant I/O device fault, publishes a primary redundant I/O device fault message on the bus. The controller may deactivate the primary redundant I/O device and activate the secondary redundant I/O device responsive to the primary redundant I/O device fault message. |
| US08510477B2 |
Protocol resolution device and method employing the same
A protocol resolution device electrically connected to a central processing unit (CPU) includes a signal controller to receive communication protocol from the CPU, a signal input module, and display module. The signal input module provides an electrical signal to the signal controller. The signal controller decodes the communication protocol from the CPU and stores the decoded communication protocol, the signal controller selectively accesses and calls up the decoded communication protocol according to the electrical signal, and transmits the decoded communication protocol to the display module for display. |
| US08510475B2 |
Application software protection method and stream edit processing system
A method for protecting application software transmitted from a server to a client over a network, the method includes: determining an edit operation for an input stream using a first program; transmitting transmission information to the server, the transmission information including first characteristic information indicating a characteristic of the input stream and edit information indicating the edit operation; receiving a second program for executing the edit operation on the input stream, the second program including the transmission information; obtaining second characteristic information from the second program; comparing the first characteristic information and the second characteristic information; and executing, on the input stream, an edit based on the edit information by using the second program, when the first characteristic information and the second characteristic information match. |
| US08510471B2 |
Device transfer of a server stored data item based on item ID and determined nature of intended destination
There is provided a method and system for communicating data items about a communication network. An original data item for communicating to a destination device is cached to a network data store in association with unique ID (UID) generated to identify the original data item. The UID is then sent as a proxy for the original data item to the destination device. The original data item may be processed (e.g. in response to a type of the destination device) to create a processed data item and the processed data item sent in place of the original data item. The processed data item may also be cached in association with the UID, for example, for reuse to eliminate duplicate processing. The destination device is adapted to return the UID when further communicating the original data item thereby to reduce communication of the original data item about the communication network. |
| US08510463B2 |
Systems and methods for facilitating communication with a fieldbus device
Systems and methods for facilitating communication with a Fieldbus device are described. A first command formatted in accordance with a protocol other than a Fieldbus protocol may be received by a controller from an external computer, such as a human machine interface computer. The controller may determine that the received command is associated with the Fieldbus device. Based upon the determination and information included in the received first command, the controller may generate a second command formatted in accordance with the Fieldbus protocol. The second command may be output by the controller for communication to the Fieldbus device. |
| US08510462B2 |
Network streaming of a video media from a media server to a media client
Adjusting utilization of network bandwidth in a network comprising a media server and a media client is provided. The media client is connected to a display screen, and a video media is streamed from the media server to the media client. A distance between the display screen and a viewer is measured, and an indication of tile distance is sent to the media server. A resolution of the streaming video media is then adjusted in accordance with the indication, and the streaming video media with the updated resolution is received by the media client. |
| US08510461B2 |
Network selection for streaming media among multiple devices
Given the variety of ways in which devices can connect to a network, and the possibility of incompatible media formats, a digital media controller implements a process through which it determines an optimal connection for playing media from a media server on a media renderer. The digital media controller attempts to connect to the media server and media renderer using the same network interface and protocol if the media server has content in formats which are supported by the media renderer. Otherwise, the digital media controller connects to the media server and the media renderer using the fastest available connections, in the event that the renderer cannot stream directly from the server, whether due to network connectivity or format incompatibility. If a direct wireless connection is available, then it is used only when the digital media controller relays and/or converts the content. |
| US08510460B2 |
Reduced video player start-up latency in HTTP live streaming and similar protocols
Technology for processing an ordered sequence of frames of a media program intended for play in an HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) player. Processing a first ordered subset of frames of the sequence. Processing a second ordered subset of frames of the sequence separate from the first subset. The second subset following on the first forms a third ordered subset of frames of the media program. Processing the second subset includes creating a manifest file of the subset. The playing time of processed frames of the first subset is at least equal to the processing time of the second subset. Processing the first subset can include creating a manifest file of the subset. The media program can include ads (at least a pre-roll ad) and content. The first ordered subset can be the pre-roll ad. The second ordered subset can be the content and remaining ads (e.g., mid-roll and post roll). |
| US08510459B2 |
Method and system for transmitting a data file over a data network
In one form the invention provides a method of modifying a data file for transmission over a data network. The method comprises the steps of receiving the original data file and creating a header file, the header file including the length in bytes of the original data file. At least one repetition byte sequence is identified within the original data file, the repetition byte sequence comprising a byte value that is repeated consecutively within the repetition byte sequence. A modified data file is created by replacing the repetition byte sequence with a repetition marker, the repeated byte value, and a repeat frequency value representing the number of times the repeated byte value occurs within the repetition byte sequence. The repetition marker is added to the header file. The invention further provides a method of transmitting a data file to a remote device over a data network. |
| US08510457B2 |
Storage of network data
A generic method is described for storing data in the HSS (2) by the S-CSCF (1) of an IMS. When a SIP message containing new information relating to an IMPI/IMPU pair is received by the S-CSCF (1), a data package is created for storage at the HSS (2), containing the new information. An SAR command is sent to the HSS (2) containing an AVP including an instruction to the HSS (2) and the new data package. In one aspect a unique data package is controlled by the S-CSCF (1). When new information relating to the IMPI/IMPU is received in a SIP message, this is added to any previously sent data package to create a new data package. In another aspect the HSS (2) controls a unique data package, returning the data package to the S-CSCF (1) to be amended if necessary. In another aspect separate data packages are used. |
| US08510456B2 |
Connection device and program
In a connection device connected to a network mounted in a boat, a protocol of a connection device connected to a network mounted in a boat is identified based on a communication ID in a certain message transmitted through the network. A device protocol is determined in accordance with the protocol of the network. Data communication in the network is performed in conformity with the device protocol. Accordingly, when the connection device is connected to the network, the connection device automatically identifies a protocol of the network and operates appropriately. Therefore, upward compatibility is maintained and usability is improved. |
| US08510451B2 |
Session management system and method of controlling the same
A session management system enabling network resources to be efficiently utilized or saved when communication addresses are assigned to a network interface. The system manages sessions between a server having a plurality of addresses and a client. It is determined, in a case where an application provided with the client requests to communicate with the server, whether or not a session in which an address different from an address designated by the application is used is already established between the client and the server. The application is caused to communicate with the server by using the already established session when it is determined that the session is already established, and communicate with the server by using a newly established session when it is determined that the session is not established. |
| US08510450B2 |
Reconciliation of web server session states with client browser states
The present invention provides a method, a system, and computer readable media for reconciling a web-server session state with a client web-browser state. The method involves responding to an nth request, by reading an mth session-state identifier included in the request, where n>m≧1. The server then assumes an mth session state associated with the mth session state identifier. |
| US08510447B2 |
Direct addressability and direct server return
Cloud computing platforms having computer-readable media that perform methods for direct addressability and direct server return are provided. The cloud computing platform includes a load balancer and several servers. The servers are configured with public addresses, private addresses, and an address of the load balancer. The loopback interface of the servers is configured with the address of the load balancer. This allows a server to bypass the load balancer when replying to communication messages. Additionally, the public and private addresses of the servers enable direct addressability in the cloud computing platform. Accordingly, an application executing in the cloud computing platform may connect two or more clients on the same server. |
| US08510446B1 |
Dynamically populating an identity-correlation data store
A method and apparatus for dynamically populating an identity-correlation data store and using the identity-correlation data store to correlate external identifiers and unique internal identifiers are described. |
| US08510445B2 |
System management method and system management apparatus
Provided is an IT system to minimize occurrence of a bottleneck on a network while effectively making use of the bandwidth of the network. A system management apparatus collects performance information from a network device, and calculates the average value, the peak hour, and the variance from the collected performance information. In response to a request for addition of a business system, the system management apparatus builds configuration patterns of a group of virtual servers configuring the business system and monitors traffic states of the paths on the network, identifies the part of the network where the traffic quality is most degraded, and determines the pattern that includes the path which has the smallest variance in the traffic based on traffic information on the part where the communication quality is degraded identified in each pattern as the requested system configuration of the business system. |
| US08510442B2 |
Method and apparatus for dormant mode support with paging
Apparatuses and methods are disclosed herein for implementing dormant mode with paging in a WLAN. Power savings in the computing device and reduction in traffic across the network are achieved by requiring a computing device to inform the WLAN of its location only when it crosses a paging area boundary or is to receive IP traffic. Dormant mode with paging is implemented in a protocol that supports dormant functionality and paging functionality but does not itself provide methods or standards for implementing such functionality, such as the IEEE 802.11. The methods and apparatuses disclosed herein provide the methods needed to implement dormant mode with paging in such a protocol. Generally, the methods and apparatuses for implementing dormant mode with paging basically include (1) establishing paging areas; (2) communicating access group information to a computing device; and (3) locating a computing device. |
| US08510441B2 |
Transmission apparatus, transmission method, content delivery system, content delivery method, and program
The present invention relates to a sending apparatus that efficiently sends content provided by a viewer/listener to a sender and that performs live distribution using the content. Program content to be live-distributed by a user terminal (10) serving as the sender and sender specific information for specifying the user terminal (10) on the Internet (11) are distributed to a client terminal (12) via a streaming distribution server (13). Content provided by the client terminal (12) is directly sent to the user terminal (10) on the basis of the sender specific information. The user terminal (10) performs live distribution using the content that has been sent from the client terminal (12). |
| US08510435B2 |
Highly scalable and distributed call/media modeling and control framework
A highly scalable and distributed call/media modeling and control framework is described. In particular, a plurality of anchor point servers are provided which enable one or more applications to exert call and media control over in-progress communication sessions even though the applications were not originally bound to the communication session during its setup. |
| US08510434B2 |
Method, system and DNS server for load balancing network servers
Embodiments of the present invention provide a method, system and DNS server for load balancing network servers. The method includes: monitoring whether each network server is capable of providing a network service, deleting an IP address of a network server which is incapable of providing a network service from an IP list in a DNS server or setting the IP address as invalid in the IP list according to a monitoring result; receiving, by the DNS server, a request from a network user for accessing a network server, selecting an IP address from valid IP addresses in the IP list which corresponds to the request; providing, by a network server having the selected IP address, network services for the network user. |
| US08510433B2 |
Beam combination methods and systems for adapting communication links to varying channel conditions
Methods and systems for rectifying deteriorated channel conditions on a communication link are described. In response to the detection of a link deterioration event, a cluster of beams about a currently utilized beam pair can be trialed to determine a suitable, alternate pair of beams on which to establish a communication link. In turn, in the case of a link blockage event, a set of beams having a relatively large azimuthal angle with respect to a currently utilized beam pair can be trialed to determine a suitable beam pair for further communication. |
| US08510423B2 |
Install system and install method
An install system includes a host device, a portable device configured to connect with the host device, and a host device application providing system to which the host device is accessible via a network. The host device includes a host device application execution unit configured to execute host device applications as applications for host devices and an automatic install unit. The portable device includes a portable device application execution unit configured to execute portable device applications as applications for portable devices. The host device application providing system includes a host device application database for storing install data on host device applications contained therein and a host device application download server for transferring the install data on the host device applications stored in the host device application database, to the host device. |
| US08510417B2 |
Publishing-point management for content delivery network
A system and method for delivering content objects over the Internet to an end user system with a content delivery network (CDN) is disclosed. Content objects may be dynamically served by loading and/or reconfiguring publishing points upon receipt of an end user request. When an end-user media player requests a content object, the request is assigned to an edge server within a particular POP of the CDN. An optional peer-discovery algorithm may determine a content source for the requested content object within the CDN. The peer-discovery algorithm determines whether the publishing point associated with the requested object is loaded into the edge server. Alternatively, the algorithm queries other edge servers within or remote from the POP to determine whether the request is mapped by other edge servers to a content source using their respective publishing points. The edge server may reconfigure its publishing point toward the content source. |
| US08510414B2 |
Telecommunication equipment unit enabling call control migration
A method of managing a call managed at any given time by a call controller, which method includes steps of: choosing an initial call controller managing said call, measuring the satisfaction of criteria during the call, deciding as a function of said measurement to change the call controller managing said call, and in the event of a decision to change, transmitting information relating to the call to the chosen call controller. |
| US08510413B1 |
Method and apparatus for promoting desired on-line activities using on-line games
The present invention relates to a computer system and method for promoting on-line activities on desired sites via a virtual entertainment system that provides games, interactions or activities that take place either partially or fully on the partner's website or within the virtual space associated with the partner's website. According to one aspect, the invention drives on-line traffic to partner sites using Virtual Collectibles and other prizes rewarded for participation in Internet-based games. The games are designed to promote users to visit and/or perform other activities on the partner sites, and can include giveaways, special offers, treasure hunts, combo puzzles, among many other types of games. According to other aspects, the games can be played by users in the course of, or with very little effort in addition to casually surfing the web. |
| US08510411B2 |
Method and system for monitoring and redirecting HTTP requests away from unintended web sites
Embodiments are described for a system and method for redirecting Internet traffic away from illegitimate web sites. A redirect process includes a typo identifier engine and a direct navigation engine. The typo identifier engine generates a list of domain names based on common typographical variations of legitimate brand domains, and common direct navigation domains. A web crawler process verifies if the generated domain name are registered. The sites are classified as either legitimate or illegitimate based on a series of defined rules and analysis of parameters, such as site content, registrar identity, and owner. The direct navigation engine compares the user's request with the list of known illegitimate domains found by the typo identifier engine. If a match is found, the system replaces the user requested domain name with a redirected domain name. |
| US08510404B2 |
Peer to peer Synchronization system and method
A method and system for enabling peer to peer synchronization between members of a synchronized network. A predefined synchronization reference area on each member of the network is provided. A common identifier associated with the synchronization network is provided to each member. Changes are detected on a member regarding a data item. A network identifier associated is obtained. A unique identifier of a synchronization module is obtained. A relative path to the data item within the predefined synchronization reference area is obtained. A unique value is calculated based upon a content of a version of the data item that is associated with the change. A log number counter is incremented. A log representing the data item and the chance is created. The log includes data regarding the type of change, the network identifier, the unique identifier of the synchronization module, the relative path, the unique value, and the log number. |
| US08510403B2 |
Self clocking interrupt generation in a network interface card
A network interface card may issue interrupts to a host in which the determination of when to issue an interrupt to the host may be based on the incoming packet rate. In one implementation, an interrupt controller of the network interface card may issue interrupts to that informs a host of the arrival of packets. The interrupt controller may issue the interrupts in response to arrival of a predetermined number of packets, where the interrupt controller re-calculates the predetermined number based on an arrival rate of the incoming packets. |
| US08510402B2 |
Management of redundant addresses in standby systems
Aspects of the invention provide apparatuses, systems, and computer readable media for supporting redundant network management. When the primary device (101, 103) fails, its Ethernet IP address is transferred or controlled by a backup Ethernet device. System information is provided to a network adapter so that programmable logic controllers are in agreement about the mode of operation. A central processing unit (201, 203) determines a calculated mode of operation from the operational statuses of the programmable logic controller and the mated programmable logic controller. The central processing unit provides an address indication (503) based on the calculated mode of operation and a selection indication (501) that is indicative of a selected address criterion. The corresponding network adapter determines the assigned network address from the selection indication and the address indication. |
| US08510400B2 |
Asynchronous context data messaging
An acceleration engine that stores context data is operatively disposed between a network and at least one web server. Incoming requests from the network are inspected by the acceleration engine and passed on to the web server. If the inspection reveals a reference to context data, the acceleration engine retrieves the context data and asynchronously sends the context data to the web server. The web server synchronizes that request and context data and generates a response message accordingly. The response message is forwarded back to the initiator of the request with or without interception by the acceleration engine. Should context data be generated during processing of the request, such context data is sent to the acceleration engine for updating purposes. |
| US08510399B1 |
Automated participants for hosted conversations
A server system stores a hosted conversation having a special-purpose automated participant and a standard participant. The server system receives a request to modify the conversation from a first participant, determines a set of edits that update the conversation to an updated state in accordance with the request to modify the conversation; and sends, the set of edits to a second participant. When the first participant is a standard participant: the request includes an indication of preliminary edits; the conversation is updated in accordance with the preliminary edits; and the set of edits include concurrency-resolved edits. When the first participant is a special-purpose automated participant: the request includes an operation to be performed on the conversation; the operation is performed on the conversation at the server system; and the set of edits updates the conversation, in accordance with the operation. |
| US08510398B2 |
Apparatus and method for managing message communication
A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, receiving from a first communication device a message and a message request at a messaging server, selecting a second communication device from a group of other communication devices, providing a notification of the message to the second communication device, providing a message to the second communication device when the second communication device transmits an access request to the messaging server in response to the notification, and establishing a communication session between the first and second communication devices using the messaging server when the second communication device transmits a session request to the messaging server in response to receiving the message. Other embodiments are disclosed. |
| US08510397B2 |
Method and apparatus for message notification via RSS feed
Methods of receiving audio transmissions over a telecommunication connection, extracting information about the transmissions, and publishing the information to an RSS feed are described and claimed. Systems and software using the methods are also described and claimed. |
| US08510394B2 |
Method of facilitating access to IP-based emergency services
A method of responding to an emergency includes monitoring for an internet protocol based help request message; receiving the help request message; evaluating the help request message and additional information; and dispatching emergency help in response to the help request message and the additional information. |
| US08510386B2 |
E-mail service provider method and apparatus
An e-mail service provider method and apparatus provide means for individuals to register with a service that provides e-mail addresses that correspond to their vehicle license plate characters. Registered users will make their e-mail addresses available to those observing their vehicles. The service provider also furnishes indicia for attachment to the vehicles that identify the vehicle owner as a registered user of the service and possibly having an interest in a particular sport, hobby, affiliation or other special interest. The service provider furnishes mailboxes for unregistered users, storing any mail for such users until the user registers with the service provider. Registered users are permitted to maintain profiles that store information related to the user such as hobbies, interests affiliations and, if desired, phone numbers. Registered users have the option of permitting access to their profiles by marketing interests. If access is granted, the user may receive targeted marketing e-mail. |