最新美国发明专利第2013-10-08期 - 专利汇|PatentHub专利检索|专利查询网|发明专利查询分析

Document	Document Title
US08550738B2	Flow-through dispenser with helical actuation A dispenser includes a flow-through gasket and a lower valve having a reservoir for containing a product. The flow-through gasket has at least aperture to provide a product delivery passage when the dispenser is selectively rotatable along a helical guide slot to a raised position. When the dispenser is selectively rotatable along the helical guide slot to a retracted position, the dispenser is in a stored state. In some examples, the flow-through gasket may be made of a material having elastomeric properties.
US08550737B2	Applicators for dispensing adhesive or sealant material An applicator device for storing and dispensing an adhesive or sealant material, which are compatible with irradiation sterilization techniques, the applicator comprising: an applicator body comprising a cutting portion to break the frangible seal of the container for the adhesive, and a grasping and squeezing portion for controlling the flow rate of the adhesive; a container for an adhesive material that is movable relative to the applicator body and is made of materials with high barrier property; and a porous applicator tip that is secured to or frictionally fits into the applicator body.
US08550736B2	Oral care implement An oral care implement with a handle includes a head with a releasable material (e.g., an oral medicament) and a tissue cleaner for cleaning the soft tissues and removing odor-causing bacteria from the mouth. In one arrangement, the releasable material is disposed on the surface of the tissue cleaner. In one arrangement, the releasable material is disposed behind the tissue cleaner. In one arrangement, the releasable material is incorporated in the composition of the tissue cleaner.
US08550732B2	Intermediate transfer medium conveying device and thermal transfer line printer using the same An intermediate transfer medium conveying device conveys an intermediate transfer medium by a drive force of one DC motor, in a normal feed direction where the intermediate transfer medium is wound on a winding reel and in a reverse feed direction where the intermediate transfer medium is wound on a feeding reel. The intermediate transfer medium conveying device includes a winding shaft that drives the winding reel during normal feed where the intermediate transfer medium is conveyed in the normal feed direction, a feeding shaft driving the feeding reel during reverse feed where the intermediate transfer medium is conveyed in the reverse feed direction, transmission means for normal feed that transmits a drive force of the DC motor to the winding shaft during the normal feed, and transmission means for reverse feed that transmits a drive force of the DC motor to the feeding shaft during the reverse feed.
US08550731B2	Blade drive device and optical device A blade drive device includes: a board including an optical path opening; a blade including a plurality of openings; a first drive source that swings the blade to move toward and away from the optical path opening; and a second drive source that changes a position of a swinging fulcrum of the blade relative to the board. The first drive source includes a first rotor and a first transmitting portion transmitting a rotation of the first rotor to the blade. The second drive source includes a second rotor and a second transmitting portion transmitting a rotation of the second rotor to the blade. The blade includes a cam slot engaging the first transmitting portion and a fitting hole into which the second transmitting portion slidably fits.
US08550727B2	Parallel optical communications system that incorporates a method and apparatus for performing electromagnetic interference (EMI) containment Methods and apparatuses are provided for performing electromagnetic interference (EMI) containment in a parallel optical communications system. The apparatus includes a curved surface formed in the system housing near the opening through which a stack of ribbon cables passes, and a spring device. The stack of ribbon cables is sandwiched in between the curved surface of the housing and the spring device. The spring device exerts a force on the stack of ribbon cables that presses the stack against the curved surface of the housing and forms a sharp bend in the stack just before the stack passes through the opening in the housing. Because EMI radiation is restricted to propagation along the sharply bent pathway of the stack of ribbon cables, most or all of the EMI radiation traveling along that pathway is either attenuated or reflected before it reaches the opening.
US08550726B2	Optical transceiver using single-wavelength communication Disclosed herein is a single wavelength bi-directional optical transceiver for transmitting/receiving optical signals having the same wavelength through an optical communication system. The optical transceiver includes a transmitter including an isolator and converting an external input signal into an optical transmit signal, an optical filter reflecting some of the optical transmit signal and transmitting the other of the optical transmit signal, an optical fiber transmitting the optical transmit signal transmitted by the optical filter to a counterpart optical transceiver, a receiver receiving an optical receive signal from the counterpart optical transceiver via the optical fiber, and a body enclosing a portion of the transmitter, the optical filter, a portion of the optical fiber and a portion of the receiver. An incidence angle (θ2) formed between a central axis of the transmitter and a central axis of the optical fiber is adjusted to allow the optical transmit signal to be obliquely incident into the optical fiber in order to reduce reflection of the optical transmit signal by the optical fiber without coupling with the optical fiber when the transmitter transmits the optical transmit signal to the optical fiber.
US08550725B2	Pluggable optical transceiver having functional latch screw A pluggable optical transceiver mounted on a host system is disclosed. The optical transceiver provides an optical receptacle that receives an external connector, and a mechanism that prevents the optical transceiver from being released from the host system when the optical receptacle receives the external connector, and prevents the optical transceiver from receiving the external connector when the optical transceiver is free from the host system.
US08550723B2	Optical fiber connector An optical fiber connector includes a first protecting body and a second protecting body detachably assembled to the first protecting body. The first protecting body includes a first base plate and a first housing extending out from the first base plate. The first base plate defines a first receiving hole to communicate with the first housing. The second protecting body includes a second base plate and a second housing extending out from the second base plate. The second base plate defines a second receiving hole to communicate with the second housing. The second housing and the first housing together define an accommodating space therebetween.
US08550720B2	Positioning device for motor bearing A positioning device includes a shaft tube having a receptacle receiving a support member that includes first and second ends spaced along an axis. The support member further includes a through-hole extending from the first end through the second end. A bearing is received in the receptacle and includes an end facing the first end of the support member. The end of the bearing includes an inclined pressing surface aligned with a support portion formed on the first end of the support member. The pressing surface deforms the support portion when the bearing is pushed downward during assembly. The deformed support is received in a groove between the pressing surface and an inner periphery of the receptacle to offset and absorb the downward pressing force. The bearing is, thus, reliably fixed in the desired assembly position while preventing the support member from being damaged or generating noise during operation.
US08550719B2	Bearings with uncoated crush relieves There is disclosed a split bearing comprising a semi-cylindrical bearing member having a concave bearing surface extending throughout the length thereof to a parting face at each opposed circumferential end of the bearing member. The bearing surface has formed thereon a sprayed bearing overlay extending over the whole bearing surface except for crush relief regions adjacent to the parting faces. The bearing member has a substantially constant outer diameter and inner diameter except at the crush relief regions, where the inner diameter is larger than at other regions of the bearing surface. There is also disclosed a method of making such a bearing. Less overlay material is required than in conventional split bearings.
US08550717B2	Composite breathable produce bag with a reinforced mesh sidewall A composite or so-called “half and half” bag has a first side wall formed from a synthetic resin mesh material and a second side formed from a synthetic resin film material. A reinforcing strip extends horizontally along the upper end portion of the mesh side wall of the bag. The reinforcing strip overlaps the upper edge of the first side wall such that it is joined to the first side wall through a horizontal seam positioned well beneath the top edge of the reinforcing strip to form an extension that protrudes well above (e.g., ½ inch to 1½ inches or even more) the upper edge of the mesh side wall. In order to strengthen the seam at the sides of the bag, the side edges of the reinforcing strip are joined to the second film side wall along at least most of the vertical extent of the extension. This film-to-film bond is considerably stronger than a bond through an intermediate mesh layer, as occurs along the remainder of the side seams of the bag. In addition, the relatively long extension provides an improved contact point for suction cups or other equipment used on automated bag filling equipment to open a bag during a bag filling process.
US08550716B2	Tactile enhancement mechanism for a closure mechanism A pouch including opposing sidewalls sealed together in a closed distal portion to form an interior that is accessible by a proximal opening. A closure profile extends along an interior surface of the opposing sidewalls for selectively sealing the proximal opening, wherein the closure profile substantially extends a length of the proximal opening. A plurality of tactile strips are disposed on an interior surface of at least one of the opposing sidewalls between the closure profile and the proximal opening, the tactile strips being variably spaced. Preferably, each tactile strip has a well-formed triangular cross-sectional shape with a height from the respective sidewall approximately double a thickness of the respective sidewall.
US08550714B2	Sealable enclosure A pocket closure assembly can have a pocket and a first member coupled to the pocket, where the first member has a first surface. A second member may be rotatably coupled to the first member, where the second member has a second surface that mates with the first surface to form a seal for the pocket if the second member is rotated to a closed position.
US08550713B2	Bag for handheld electronic device A bag for enclosing a handheld electronic device (HED) comprises a flexible sheet material such as a flexible or stretchy fabric. The material is formed into a bag having a main body and a mouth. The mouth has a periphery smaller than the periphery of the main body. The mouth can elastically stretch to allow passage of the HED. First and second loops are attached to and project from the bag adjacent to the mouth to allow a user to support the bag with thumb and forefinger while inserting the HED. In one embodiment, an elastic structure comprises the periphery of the mouth. The unstretched length of such an elastic structure may be adjusted to compensate for the size of the HED.
US08550711B2	Treatment table system Lesion positioner systems and, which perform positioning of a lesion A by moving a top board for allowing a subject to be placed thereon, set an isocenter of a diagnostic 3D imaging unit as a virtual isocenter at the time when a treatment table is in a 3D imaging diagnosis position, and positions the lesion A to the virtual isocenter, based on a three-dimensional diagnostic image in consideration of particle beam therapy. A treatment table moving mechanism moves the treatment table to the treatment position relative to the particle beam therapy system while maintaining states of the top board and the lesion positioner systems and at the time of positioning, thereby positioning the lesion A to the isocenter of the particle beam therapy system.
US08550710B2	Sample cell for fluorescent X-ray analysis and sample cell assembly instrument In a sample cell that is sealed with an X-ray transmission sheet after a sample such as a liquid fuel or the like is contained therein, when an internal pressure is increased, a cup end surface is deformed so as to increase an internal capacity of the sample cell before the X-ray transmission sheet serving as a window part is expanded. The cup end surface is formed by folding a film-like material and, when the internal pressure of the sample cell is increased, the cup end surface is unfolded outwardly of the sample cell to increase the internal capacity of the sample cell. The increase in pressure is relieved by the increase in capacity, and the expansion of the X-ray transmission sheet is thereby prevented.
US08550708B2	Thermal resistor test apparatus A test apparatus for a thermal resistor includes a control device, a temperature processing circuit, a voltage regulating circuit and a temperature detecting circuit. The control device stores a plurality of predetermined voltage values and outputs control signals according to those predetermined values. The temperature processing circuit receives the control signals and outputs a pulse width modulation (PWM) signal according to the control signal. The voltage regulating circuit receives the PWM signal and outputs a first direct current (DC) voltage to heat the thermal resistor. The temperature detecting circuit detects temperature signals and current signals from the thermal resistor. The control device receives the temperature signals and current signals of the thermal resistor and generates a resistance-temperature graph of the thermal resistor.
US08550703B2	Systems and methods for use in freezing or thawing biopharmaceutical materials A system for use in freezing or thawing a biopharmaceutical material includes a container means and a support member. The container means has a receiving cavity receiving the biopharmaceutical material therein. The support member is connected to and supported by the container means. A transmitter is configured to propagate an ultrasonic pulse into the biopharmaceutical material and is located in a support member cavity of the support member. An ultrasonic sensor is configured to sense a reflection of the pulse in the biopharmaceutical material and is located in the support member cavity. A controller is coupled to the transmitter and the sensor. The controller is configured to determine a phase change of the biopharmaceutical material based on the propagation of the pulse by the transmitter and the sense of the reflection by the sensor.
US08550700B2	Clock movement containing a constant force device A clock movement is provided that contains a constant force device. In accordance with one implementation, the clock movement includes a spiral spring, and a train, having a first kinematic chain arranged to connect a main energy source to a first end of the spiral spring and a second kinematic chain for connecting a time base to a second end of the spiral spring. One of the first and second kinematic chains may contain an adjustment mobile comprising first and second members connected to each other by a friction such that a rotation of one member drives the other member during routine working of the clock movement. One of these members may include an adjustment member having at least one bearing surface arranged such that it is possible to act upon the latter so as to rotate the adjustment member without rotating the other member by dint of friction, in order to adjust the load state of the spiral spring.
US08550698B2	Fluidized mixing and blending of nanopowders with secondary gas flow Methods and systems for enhancing fluidization of nanoparticle and/or nanoagglomerates and for mixing and blending nanoparticle/nanoagglomerate systems at the nanoscale are provided. A fluidization chamber is provided with a fluidizing medium (e.g., a fluidizing gas) directed in a first fluidizing direction, e.g., upward into and through a bed containing a volume of nanoparticles and/or nanopowders. A second source of air/gas flow is provided with respect to the fluidization chamber, the secondary air/gas flow generally being oppositely (or substantially oppositely) directed relative to the fluidizing medium. Turbulence created by the secondary gas flow, e.g., a jet from a micro jet nozzle, is advantageously effective to aerate the agglomerates and the shear generated by the jet is advantageously effective to break apart nanoagglomerates and/or reduce the tendency for nanoagglomerates to form or reform. A downwardly directed source of secondary gas flow located near the main gas distributor leads to full fluidization of the entire amount of powder in the column. In addition, the oppositely directed fluid flow facilitates powder circulation within the fluidization chamber, thereby enhancing fluidization and mixing/blending results.
US08550697B2	Reagent cartridge mixing tube A clinical instrument analyzer system for automated analysis of patient samples with a system for suspending particles or methods for the separation of particles, such as magnetic particles, is described herein. The system for suspending particles comprises a reagent cartridge comprising a reagent holder for holding a plurality of tubes. The plurality of tubes comprise a mixing tube for holding particles, rotatably mounted in the holder and a motor operatively connectable to a slot longitudinally positioned on the lower section of the mixing tube. The particles in the mixing tube are suspended when the mixing tube rotates in accordance with the embodiments of the invention. The analyzer can be used to analyze bodily fluid samples, such as blood, plasma, serum, urine or cerebrospinal fluid.
US08550696B2	Laboratory mixer and vortexer Disclosed is an apparatus for mixing laboratory vessel contents. The apparatus has an accommodating adapter with a holder for accommodating laboratory vessels, e.g., laboratory vessels in an exchangeable block module, and a drive for putting the accommodating adapter into a mixing movement which essentially oscillates in a circular and translatory manner in a horizontal plane. The accommodating adapter has a vortex adapter which is accessible from the outside and has a shoulder structure on a circumference. The shoulder structure has at least one shoulder which points toward the center of the circumference and is intended to drive a vessel, e.g., a test tube, which is held and placed from the outside, into the mixing movement in a form-fitting manner.
US08550693B2	Device for preparation of water-fuel emulsion A device for preparation of a water-fuel emulsion comprises a blending chamber, as well as a fuel nozzle and a water nozzle for supply of respective mediums in the chamber. A nozzle that ensures boiling of water is used as the water nozzle. The water nozzle comprises an inlet and outlet sections that are respectively convergent and divergent in the direction of medium flow, between which the minimal cross-section of the nozzle is located. The generatrix of a fore part of the divergent section of the nozzle has a concave shape in relation to the axis of the nozzle in the critical cross-section of the nozzle. The water nozzle is located on a longitudinal axis of the chamber while the fuel nozzle is located in line with the water nozzle and is shaped as a ring enveloping an end part of the water nozzle.
US08550689B2	Backlight assembly A backlight assembly includes a light emitting part, a light guide plate, a bracket and receiving container. The light emitting part generates light. The light guide plate includes a first side surface which receives the light, and a second side surface adjacent to the first side surface. The bracket is fixed to the second side surface of the light guide plate. The receiving container includes a bottom, and a sidewall perpendicularly extending from the bottom, and receives the light emitting part and the light guide plate. The sidewall includes combining portions which are combined with the bracket.
US08550685B2	Backlight module A direct-type backlight module includes a light guiding plate, a light source facing a light input surface of the light guiding plate, a complementary color element adjacent to the light source, and an enclosure. The light source comprises a number of LEDs which emit light with at least two wavelengths. The at least two wavelengths light mix with each other to gain a white light. The complementary color element is configured for receiving light emitted from adjacent, outmost LED and converting the light into white light. The white light is reflected by the complementary color element and emits from the light guiding plate through the light output surface. The LEDs are mounted on a base of the enclosure and arranged in an array.
US08550683B2	Converging illuminant device A converging illuminant device has a flat illuminant, a reflective layer and an enhancement film. The reflective layer abuts the flat illuminant, is grille-shaped and has multiple longitudinal strips and multiple lateral strips. The enhancement film is securely connected with the reflective layer and has an emissive surface. The emissive surface has multiple free-form curved areas, multiple longitudinal lines and multiple lateral lines. The longitudinal lines respectively align with the longitudinal strips. The lateral lines respectively align with the lateral strips. Because the reflective layer is grille-shaped, light definitely passes through central positions of the free-form curved areas, angles of refraction of the light are small and the light can be effectively converged. Consequently, illuminant efficiency and central luminous intensity are increased.
US08550678B2	Headlamp with day/night front vehicle position A headlight for a motor vehicle with light unit for daytime and nighttime front navigation light and a supplemental distance light unit, in addition to an at least one optical module (3), with light source (2). The light sources (61, 62) of the supplemental unit (7) are supplied with alternating electric current, for creation of the front nighttime navigation light when supplied with low electric current, or the front daytime navigation light when supplied with medium electric current, and when supplied with the highest electric current, a supplemental distance beam in addition to the distance light beam emerging from the optical module (3).
US08550672B2	Electronic ballast assembly An electronic ballast mounting arrangement for HID luminaires on a vertical pole for sports lighting is disclosed. The mounting arrangement comprises an elongate channel to which a weather tight enclosure is fixedly secured. Electronic ballast units are provided in pairs immediately above and/or below the enclosure. Male/female connectors are arranged between end plates of the electronic ballast units and exterior panels of the enclosure so that electrical connections between the ballast units and components on the interior of the enclosure can be made without exposed cables simply by sliding partially pre-mounted ballast units a limited distance toward the adjacent enclosure panel to mate the complemental parts of the connectors, after which the fasteners holding the ballast units to the support are tightened down. A cable using wires with a high-strand count extends through a nipple screwed into a hollow pole from the interior of the weather proof enclosure into the center of the pole and runs upwardly through the pole to the luminaires mounted on one or more cross arms on the top of the pole. A Kelem grip hanger is used to support the cable and relieve tension on the electrical connections between the cable and the luminaires.
US08550669B2	Adjustable slope ceiling recessed light fixture An adjustable assembly for conveying heat away from a fixture. The adjustable assembly includes a sliding plate having a first side for mounting the fixture thereon and a curved surface opposite the first side. The adjustable assembly also includes a fixed heat sink having a mating surface adapted to allow the curved surface of the sliding plate to slide from a first position to a second position while maintaining a substantially flush contact between the curved surface of the sliding plate and the mating surface of the fixed heat sink. At least one fastener is also provided for securing the sliding plate to the fixed heat sink alternately in the first position or the second position.
US08550668B2	Light control member with intersecting groups of parallel prisms, and light-emitting device using such member A light control member includes a plate-like member including a first flat surface and a second surface facing the first surface. The second surface has at least three prism line groups, each group including a plurality of substantially parallel linear prisms. Each one of the linear prisms of one prism line group intersects the linear prisms of other prism line groups at one intersection point, and each linear prism is formed into a convex shape having a substantially curved outer edge when viewed along its longitudinal direction.
US08550666B2	Lighting apparatus There is disclosed a lighting that has an electronic module capable of repaired and replaced easily and efficiently and that can prevent foreign substances from being drawn therein, with enhanced spatial utilization.
US08550650B1	Lighted helmet with heat pipe assembly A heat dissipating helmet provides a heat dissipating heat pipe portion. One or more high powered LEDs may be in thermal contact therewith providing a significant portion of a heat sink to remove heat from the LEDs to maintain them at a proper operating temperature during operation. The heat dissipating material may be also in contact with air flow as the helmet moves through space thereby allowing convection to assist in removing heat from the helmet.
US08550648B2	Directional hands-free wrist illumination device A lighting device designed to for attachment around the wrists of a user. The device is a material band equipped with a plurality of forward facing lights to illuminate an area in front of the user's hands. Further, the device is equipped with a clasp to allow securing to the wrist. An on off switch is used to control an illumination, while an internal battery powers the lights. The lighting device provides adequate lighting for manual work such as car repairs as well as for vision during nighttime excursions.
US08550645B2	Illumination device for display device, and display device An illumination device for a display device, which is formed from a substrate and a plurality of white light-emitting devices disposed on top of the substrate, and can be used as a backlight for a liquid crystal display panel, wherein the white light-emitting devices have a light source and a phosphor that is excited by the light source and emits light, and a fluorescent material with a composition represented by a general formula: M(0)aM(1)bM(2)x−(vm+n)M(3)(vm+n)−yOnNz−n is used as the phosphor.
US08550643B2	Lighted fittings for bathing installations A fitting for through hole mounting to a panel of a bathing installation includes in one exemplary embodiment a flange structure fabricated of a transparent or translucent material, the flange structure including a hollow body portion adapted to extend through a mount hole in the panel and having an outer peripheral portion, and a transverse flange portion having an outer size larger than the hole opening, so that a peripheral flange portion overlaps the panel surrounding the hole when the flange structure is installed in the mount hole. A light source attachment portion is attached to the body portion of the flange structure and configured so that with the flange structure mounted to the panel, light emitted from one or more light sources mounted in the light source attachment portion is transmitted through the body portion and into the transverse flange structure to illuminate at least a portion of the transverse flange portion.
US08550642B2	Exterior rearview mirror assembly An exterior rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle includes a bracket fixedly secured to the vehicle, a mirror casing secured to the bracket and defining a primary opening, and a primary mirror disposed within said primary opening for providing a view rearward of the motor vehicle through a primary field of view. The primary mirror defines a primary plane. A spotting mirror is spaced apart from the primary mirror and extends through a secondary plane different from the primary plane. A divider extends between the primary mirror and the spotting mirror to separate the primary and secondary mirrors visually.
US08550640B2	Antiglare film having resin-philic and resin-phobic light scattering particles An antiglare film with various inner and outer haze includes a transparent substrate, and an antiglare coating layer formed by coating an antiglare coating solution on the transparent substrate. The antiglare coating solution further includes a resin, resin-philic light-scattering particles and resin-phobic light-scattering particles. The resin-philic light-scattering particles and the resin-phobic light-scattering particles respectively have different functional groups on the surfaces thereof. The resin-philic light-scattering particles do not repel the resin and thus are distributed inside the antiglare coating layer. The resin-phobic light-scattering particles repel the resin and thus are distributed on the surface of the antiglare coating layer, so that the inner and outer haze of an antiglare film can be effectively controlled via adjusting the proportion of the resin-phobic to resin-philic light-scattering particles.
US08550639B2	Cover device for a micro-optomechanical component, and manufacturing method for such a cover device A cover device is described for a micro-optomechanical component having a substrate which has a maximum surface whose surface area is equal to or greater than a single surface area of any other surface of the substrate, and having at least one window, made of a light-transmitting material, which is inclined with respect to the maximum surface of the substrate, the at least one window being situated within at least one continuous opening provided in the substrate. A manufacturing method for a cover device for a micro-optomechanical component is also described. Furthermore, a micro-optomechanical component and a manufacturing method for a micro-optomechanical component are described.
US08550638B2	Multi-angle image display device A multi-angle image display device has a display box, two shading panels, two baffle-panels, an imaging space and an image output unit. The display box has a base, a rear panel, a sidewall, a top panel and a chamber. The sidewall is formed perpendicular to the rear panel. The chamber is formed in the display box between the base, the rear panel, the sidewall and the top panel. The shading panels are mounted respectively on the rear panel and the sidewall. The baffle-panels are mounted in the chamber and are connected perpendicular to each other, and each of the baffle-panels has an inner surface and a slant angle. The imaging space is formed in the chamber between the base, the top panel, the baffle-panels and the shading panels. The image output unit is mounted in the top panel and projects an image onto the baffle-panels.
US08550632B2	Camera crane mobile base A camera crane mobile base has a drive motor assembly at each corner of a chassis. The drive motor assemblies may have an electric motor linked to an axle via gearing, and one or more wheels attached to the axle. The electric motors may be separately controlled to propel and steer the mobile base. A column is pivotally attached to the chassis and pivotal in lateral and longitudinal directions via actuators. The drive motor assemblies may be removed from the chassis for storage or transport. With the drive motor assemblies installed, the mobile base is highly stable and maneuverable. With the drive motor assemblies removed, the chassis is narrow enough to fit through a typical doorway. Steering systems may be linked to the drive motor assemblies at the front and/or rear of the chassis, to allow steering control of the mobile base in corrective, crab and/or round steering modes. The chassis may optionally have an upward curvature from either end towards the center location.
US08550622B2	Progressive power lens and progressive power lens design method A progressive power lens including a distance portion for visual recognition of a far working distance, a near portion for visual recognition of a near working distance, and an intermediate portion provided between the distance portion and the near portion, the intermediate portion including a position of an amount of intermediate inset in which a visual line when the intermediate working distance is visually recognized passes an eyeball side surface of the progressive power lens, and addition at intermediate position for viewing an intermediate working distance smaller than the far working distance and larger than the near working distance being set to the position of the amount of intermediate inset.
US08550620B2	Frame hinge and side arm, eyeglass frame with multiple wearer connections and improved spectacle kit A spectacle kit is disclosed having a protective mask insert and detachable means for attaching a spectacle frame to the protective mask insert, by snapping the receiver onto an insert clip. Notch attachments connect a holding strap at each horizontal end of the spectacle frame so that the spectacle kit can be worn around the wearer's head external from the protective mask. Each front piece end also has a hinge and side arm combination, each hinge having a back wall, top region, bottom region and connector pin between that forms an arcuate-shaped gap between each back wall and connector pin. Each side arm for that hinge comprises an elongate side that terminates in a region fitting over the wearer's ear; and an arcuate region for fitting into the gap between the hinge back wall and connector pin when: (i) positioned at an angle between about 20 and 75 degrees relative to the main frame body; (ii) slid into the gap; and (iii) rotated about the connector pin away from the main frame.
US08550618B2	Platen unit and liquid ejecting apparatus A platen unit includes a supporting member that is grounded and is made of a metal, a platen supporting member that is provided on the supporting member, includes an inner space, is formed of a conductive resin, and includes a first contact point, a platen that is provided on the platen supporting member, is formed of a conductive resin, and includes a second contact point which contacts the first contact point, and a seal member that is provided between the platen supporting member and the platen.
US08550612B2	Method and system for ink delivery and purged ink recovery in an inkjet printer An inkjet printing apparatus is provided with a one-way valve to enable a single conduit to supply ink to an ink reservoir and withdraw purged ink from a receptacle into the ink reservoir. A bi-directional pump is operated in both directions in an alternating manner to withdraw ink from the receptacle when supplying the ink reservoir with ink.
US08550609B2	System and method for measuring a supply of solid ink in a solid ink printer A solid ink printer includes a solid ink measurement system that helps ensure an adequate supply of solid ink is in the feed channels delivering solid ink to a melting device within a printer. The solid ink measurement system includes a driving electrode mounted along a substantial length of a first structure of a first solid ink feed channel, a sensing electrode mounted along a substantial length of a second structure of the first solid ink feed channel, the sensing electrode being opposite and generally parallel to the driving electrode, an AC voltage source coupled to the driving electrode to generate an electrical field emitted from the driving electrode, and a capacitance measurement circuit coupled to the sensing electrode to receive an electrical signal induced in the sensing electrode by the electrical field generated by the driving electrode, the capacitance measurement circuit being configured to identify an amount of solid ink in the first feed channel that corresponds to the electrical signal received from the sensing electrode.
US08550604B2	Systems and methods for transporting particles Various particle transport systems and components for use in such systems are described. The systems utilize one or more traveling wave grids to selectively transport, distribute, separate, or mix different populations of particles. Numerous systems configured for use in two dimensional and three dimensional particle transport are described.
US08550603B2	Systems and methods for transporting particles Various particle transport systems and components for use in such systems are described. The systems utilize one or more traveling wave grids to selectively transport, distribute, separate, or mix different populations of particles. Numerous systems configured for use in two dimensional and three dimensional particle transport are described.
US08550597B2	Modular printhead assembly with connector arrangement A printhead assembly has a plurality of printhead modules, each with a plurality of printhead integrated circuits (ICs). The printhead modules also have a print engine controller for controlling the operation of the plurality of printhead ICs. An elongate support frame supports the printhead modules and a connector arrangement is supported by the end plate. The connector has a pair of holes, a first connector extending from the body portion between the holes and a second connector configured to engage with the holes.
US08550595B2	Inkjet printing apparatus and inkjet printing method In an inkjet printing apparatus, degraded image quality due to ink viscosity increasing is suppressed without forming ink dots unrelated to the print image as in what is called on-sheet preliminary ejection. More specifically, print data is generated for each pass in a multi-pass printing, such that the ratio of dots continuously formed by the same nozzle during the same scan becomes greater in low-duty areas than in high-duty areas. Thus, the lengthening of nozzle nonuse time can be suppressed, even in the case of printing a low-duty area. As a result, it becomes possible to suppress degraded image quality due to ink viscosity increasing.
US08550592B2	Fluid ejecting apparatus having an ink absorber A fluid ejecting apparatus includes: a rotating body which rotates while holding a medium at its circumferential surface; a fluid ejecting section which ejects fluid toward the medium such that a margin is not formed at an end portion of the medium on the circumferential surface in an axial direction of the rotating body; an absorber which absorbs fluid which has come out of the end portion of the medium on the circumferential surface in the axial direction, out of fluid ejected from the fluid ejecting section, at a position further outside than the end portion; and a rotating body driving mechanism for rotating the rotating body, which drives the rotating body such that driving force by the rotating body driving mechanism is not transmitted to the absorber.
US08550590B2	Image recording apparatus An image recording apparatus including: a medium-convey mechanism; a recording head; an image sensor configured to perform an image-pickup operation for a recording medium; an image-pickup controlling section which controls the image sensor to perform the image-pickup operation; a liquid-ejection-failure recognizing section which recognizes presence and absence of a liquid ejection failure on the basis of a portion of image data obtained by the image-pickup operation, which portion corresponds to the image; a medium-position recognizing section which recognizes a position of the recording medium relative to the recording head, on the basis of a portion of the image data which includes data corresponding to an outline of the recording medium; a medium-position judging section which judges whether the position is normal or not; and a recording data correcting section which corrects, where the position is not normal, recording data such that an image to be recorded becomes proper.
US08550589B2	Image recording method and image recording device An image recording device comprising a line head including a plurality of recording element arrays arranged in one direction such that the recording elements have overlapping regions at the mutually adjoining end portions, characterized by comprising a halftone processor for subjecting multilevel image data to a halftone process in accordance with a first half tone processing rule to form the pattern of the dots to be recorded, as a recording pattern, an allocation processor for allocating which of the recording element arrays adjoining in the overlapping regions is used to record according to the recording pattern, by using a second half tone processing rule to suppress the low-frequency component of a space frequency, and a driver for driving the recording elements so that the dot data allocated to the individual recording element arrays may be recorded by the recording elements of the individual recording element arrays contained in the line head.
US08550588B2	Printing using plurality of color ink including white ink A printing apparatus executes printing on a transparent print medium using a plurality of color ink including white ink. The printing apparatus includes: a head having a first nozzle group ejecting the plurality of color ink to form a color image and a second nozzle group ejecting the white ink and at least one kind of ink other than the white ink to form a toning white image, which is an adjusted white image; and a controller controlling the head to form a first color image, a first toning white image, a second toning white image set independently from the first toning white image, and a second color image in this order on one surface of the print medium.
US08550585B2	Liquid ejecting apparatus Liquid ejecting apparatus having ink-jet head and pre-coating head from which ink for forming an image on recording medium and pre-coating liquid reacting with the ink are respectively ejected onto respective predetermined first and second areas of conveyor belt provided for feeding the recording medium, during maintenance operation, wherein the ejected ink and pre-coating liquid are removed from the first and second areas of the conveyor belt by respective blades of respective ink and liquid cleaning mechanisms, when the first and second areas of the conveyor belt are spaced apart from the blades of the respective liquid and ink cleaning mechanisms, whereby the ejected ink and pre-coating liquid do not mix and react with each other during the maintenance operation.
US08550583B2	Image forming apparatus, method of controlling carriage travel, and computer-readable storage medium An image forming apparatus includes a carriage configured to travel with a recording head configured to eject liquid droplets being mounted thereon; a first encoder including a first encoder scale placed along a traveling direction of the carriage and a first encoder sensor configured to read the first encoder scale; an antiphase member configured to travel in opposite phase from the carriage; a second encoder including a second encoder scale placed along a traveling direction of the antiphase member and a second encoder sensor configured to read the second encoder scale; and a control part configured to control the travel of the carriage in accordance with the detection result of the first encoder and the detection result of the second encoder.
US08550580B2	Inkjet image forming apparatus An inkjet image forming apparatus includes print heads, a first tank, an ink circulation line, and a controller. The ink circulation line includes an ink supply line for supplying ink from the first tank to the print heads, and an ink return line for returning ink collected from the print heads to a second tank. The controller controls line elements of the ink circulation line, to adjust a magnitude relation between a first product and a second product, in accordance with the type of ink. The first product is a product of factors including a flow passage length along, a viscosity of ink in, and a fluid resistance coefficient of the ink supply line. The second product is a product of factors including a flow passage length along, a viscosity of ink in, and a fluid resistance coefficient of the ink return line.
US08550579B2	Image forming device, pump control method, and recording medium An image forming device includes a pump which supplies a recording fluid contained in a first container to a second container via a tube, and a control unit configured to perform rotation of a roller disposed in the pump to press the tube and feed the recording fluid in the tube. When a negative pressure in the second container is not formed by performing a first backward rotation of the roller by a predetermined amount, the control unit performs a forward rotation of the roller and performs a second backward rotation of the roller after an end of the forward rotation.
US08550576B2	Chassis module for fixing electronic devices A chassis module for fixing electronic devices includes a fixing chassis unit, a first movable chassis unit and a second movable chassis unit. The fixing chassis unit has a fixing chassis body. The first movable chassis unit is detachably disposed in the fixing chassis body and has a first movable chassis body. One lateral wall of the first movable chassis body and one lateral wall of the fixing chassis body are retainedly mated with each other. The second movable chassis unit is detachably disposed in the fixing chassis body and has a second movable chassis body. One lateral wall of the second movable chassis body and another later wall of the first movable chassis body are retainedly mated with each other, and another lateral wall of the second movable chassis body and another lateral wall of the fixing chassis body are retainedly mated with each other.
US08550575B2	Electronic device enclosure An electronic device enclosure includes an enclosure, a bracket fixed to the enclosure and an air deflecting plate fixed to the bracket. The bracket has an opening large enough to allow storage devices to pass therethrough. The air deflecting plate includes two pivot members defined on an air deflecting plate top edge and two securing members defined on an air deflecting plate bottom edge. The pivot members are fixed to a top of the bracket. The securing members are elastically fixed to a bottom of the bracket. The air deflecting plate is fixed to the bracket to cover the opening, which deflects air from outside of the bracket and facilitates heat dissipation.
US08550574B2	Modular exhibit structure Components for assembling a modular exhibit structure are provided. These components include: frames, connectors (for connecting together frames), panels (for mounting within frames), cover plates (for mounting over sides of frames), and dust covers (for mounting over top of connected frames). These components are configured to allow a single person to assemble an exhibit structure without any specialized tools or mechanical skills.
US08550573B2	Method of eliminating seizure of slave cylinder of brake device In a brake device, when a piston (38A, 38B) of a slave cylinder (23) seizes at an advanced position, an out-valve (60, 61) is opened to discharge brake fluid in a wheel cylinder (16, 17; 20, 21) to a reservoir (62). Then, an in-valve (54, 56) and the out-valve (60, 61) are both closed, and a pump (64) is activated. This allows the brake fluid in the reservoir (62) to be supplied to a fluid pressure chamber (39A, 39B) of the slave cylinder (23), enabling a piston (38A, 38B) of the slave cylinder (23), which has seized at the advanced position, to be pushed back to a retreated position. When the seizure of the piston (38A, 38B) is eliminated in this way, the brake fluid pressure generated in the master cylinder (11) can be supplied to the wheel cylinder (16, 17; 20, 21) via the fluid pressure chamber (39A, 39B) of the slave cylinder (23). Accordingly, it is proposed a method of eliminating seizure of a slave cylinder of a brake device capable of the backup of a failure in the slave cylinder (23).
US08550572B2	Electromechanical brake system with distributed architecture A brake system of a vehicle includes a plurality of electromechanical brake actuators (EBAs) proximate the wheels of the vehicle. Each EBA includes a power device for effectuating braking of an associated wheel, and electronics to generate a drive signal for the power device. The brake system may further include at least one brake control unit (BCU) for converting a brake command signal into a control signal for each EBA. The electronics for each EBA may be configured to convert the corresponding control signal into the drive signal that is applied to the power device to cause movement of the power device and effectuate braking of the vehicle.
US08550570B2	Dump truck A dump truck is provided with service brakes provided on front wheels, and a separating block that separates and outputs hydraulic oil into each of the service brakes. The separating block is offset in a vehicle width direction from an exhaust pipe that is arranged substantially in a middle of the dump truck in the vehicle width direction. Hydraulic lines that connect the separating block and each of the service brakes are arranged to pass through the middle of the dump truck in the vehicle width direction, and are installed in a row between the separating block and the middle.
US08550566B2	Seat belt and construction machine equipped therewith A seat belt includes: a lap strap stretchable around the waist of an operator, in other words, laterally stretchable across a seat surface; an AL retractor that is configured to wind the lap strap; a shoulder strap stretchable from the shoulder to the waist of the operator, in other words, stretchable from an upper portion on one side of the backrest to a lower portion on the other side thereof; and an EL retractor that is configured to wind the shoulder strap.
US08550561B2	Vehicle seat A vehicle seat includes a seatback, a headrest body, a stay and a locking member. The seatback is provided on a floor of a vehicle body. The headrest body is provided above the seatback. The stay extends downward from the headrest body into the seatback. The locking member, provided to the seatback and engaging with the stay at a specific position in a longitudinal direction of the stay, engages with the stay at a substantially longitudinal center of the stay when the headrest body is positioned at a lowest position.
US08550556B2	Reconfigurable infant support structure A reconfigurable infant support structure includes a frame, a hanger arm movably coupled to the frame, and a seat movably coupled to the hanger arm. The hanger arm is placeable in a moving position and in a fixed position. The seat is positionable in a lowered position and in a raised position relative to the frame along the hanger arm. The seat is releasably securable in its raised position. The frame restricts the seat from being releasably secured in its raised position unless the hanger arm is in its fixed position. Conversely, the hanger arm can not be released from its fixed position unless the seat is in it lowered position.
US08550554B2	Vehicle seat In a vehicle seat, two front links and two rear links are pivotally connected between a seat cushion frame and a floor of vehicle. One of the two front links is of a sector shape having an arcuate gear region meshed with a drive pinion. Or alternatively, both of the two front links may be of such sector gear configuration, such that one front link is engaged with the drive pinion and the other front link engaged with a free-to-rotate pinion. Hence, both two front links are robust enough to withstand an excessive great load in the case of rear-end collision. By contrast, the two rear links are simply prone to deformation by the excessive great load. Accordingly, the excessive great load is to be intensively exerted upon those two rear links which will in turn be deformed quickly to absorb a corresponding excessive great impact.
US08550550B2	Seat arm cup holder for snack foods A snack holder includes a generally cylindrical cup sized and shaped lower section and a larger container or multiple container upper or adjacent section for holding snack foods or additional cups. The snack holder may be combined with a tray comprised of at least first and second cup shaped cylindrical sections joined by a web and compatibly sized to receive and support the snack holder as well as to fit into a cup holder in the arm rest of a seat.
US08550549B2	Seat flap for a vehicle seat A fold and tumble seat assembly includes a seat cushion having an underside that forms a floor surface when the seat cushion is rotated to a stowed position, and a seat flap attached to the underside of the seat cushion for bridging a gap formed between the seat cushion and an adjacent vehicle floor surface when the seat cushion is in the stowed position. The flap includes a protruding tip adjacent a distal end thereof for facilitating sliding movement of the distal end along the adjacent vehicle floor surface when the seat cushion is rotated.
US08550548B2	Canopy for use with car seat or stroller Embodiments of the present invention provide a stowable covering that fits about a child seat to cover an infant or child placed therein. The covering may include a sheet of flexible fabric having a top surface, a bottom surface, an outer periphery defining an opening through which a portion of the child seat may be received, a coupling mechanism at the outer periphery, and a pocket. The coupling mechanism may be configured to secure the sheet about the child seat by constricting about a portion of the child seat and the pocket may be coupled to the sheet to permit the sheet to be folded and stowed within the pocket.
US08550547B1	Transformable chair equipped with a movable deck A transformable chair equipped with a movable deck comprises a frame, a movable unit and two chair units. The frame includes two posts, a transverse bar rotatably coupled with the two posts and two holding bars connected to the transverse bar. The movable unit includes a movable deck and a movable rack pivotally coupled with the movable deck and holding bars. The two chair units are pivotally coupled with the two posts and form a second rotary displacement against the frame. The movable deck has a moving displacement against the two posts. The movable rack can proceed a flipping displacement during the moving displacement against the two holding bars to drive the two holding bars to form a first rotary displacement so that the movable deck can form an unfolding state away from the transverse bar and a folding state leaning on the transverse bar.
US08550542B1	Half-round trailer and trailer body with extruded panel side walls A trailer includes a chassis and a trailer body connected to the chassis. The trailer body includes left and right vertical side walls and a curved floor. The left and right side walls each include a plurality of extruded panels each including an inner wall and an outer wall spaced from the inner wall.
US08550540B1	Aerodynamic device for trailers and the like A device for attaching to and covering an entire blunt nose of a blunt-nosed trailer that is attached to and spaced behind a towing vehicle without impinging upon the towing vehicle so as to reduce drag of the blunt-nosed trailer when being towed by the towing vehicle by changing the blunt nose of the blunt-nosed trailer to a lateral wedge. The device includes a frame and a skin. The frame is laterally wedge-shaped, is rigid, and is for attaching to the blunt nose of the blunt-nosed trailer without impinging upon the towing vehicle. The skin covets the frame, is rigid, is laterally wedge-shaped, encloses the frame, and is for covering the entire blunt nose of the blunt-nosed trailer so as to reduce drag of the blunt-nosed trailer when being towed by the towing vehicle by changing the blunt nose of the blunt-nosed trailer to a lateral wedge.
US08550537B2	Automotive vehicle passage seal An automotive vehicle comprising a body panel including a flange defining an opening. The opening is shaped to receive a component selected from a door, a trunk or a tailgate. The component includes a main body panel and an interior lining having a substantially coplanar region facing the flange when the component is in a closed position. An elongated resilient sealing member is secured to the coplanar region of the component. The sealing member includes a base engaging the interior lining and a tubular body projecting from said base opposite the lining. An arm extends from an edge of the base and overlaps the interior lining.
US08550533B2	Horizontal folding type sunroof apparatus Provided is a sunroof apparatus of the present invention including a sunroof panel that divides a roof panel, except for left and right side fillers of the roof of a vehicle, into a front panel, a middle panel, and a rear panel, and link units composed of an interlink that moves middle panel by the operation of a driving link moving rear panel and a driven link that moves front panel by the operation of interlink, such that all of the portions, except for left and right side fillers of the roof of the vehicle are completely opened while rear panel, middle panel, and front panel are folded in several steps and horizontally stacked when the sunroof is opened, such that open feel, which is maximized like a convertible vehicle.
US08550532B2	Hold-down locking mechanism for a flexible cover system A locking mechanism is provided for a tarping system having a flexible cover carried by a deployment mechanism having a horizontal arm spanning the width of a container, the deployment mechanism movable to an extended position in which the horizontal arm is adjacent one end of the container. The locking mechanism includes at least one locking element associated with one end of the container and at least one latching element having a latching portion configured to engage the at least one locking element. The latching element is pivotably supported on the horizontal arm so that latching element can pivot to and from a locked position in which the latching portion engages the at least one locking element. A tension element is connected between the latching element and the cover to control the pivoting of the latching element under the force of gravity based on the position of the flexible cover.
US08550531B1	Extensible sun visor An extensible sun visor for use in automobiles having a slidable tinted transparent insert moveable along a horizontal axis from a first position inside the sun visor to a second position outside the sun visor, the insert extended from a right edge of the visor, the sun visor having a transparent section overlying the tinted insert and a transparent portion underlying the insert, through which visor visibility is enabled when a mirror and cover are raised on an inside surface of the extensible sun visor.
US08550530B2	Compact seating arrangement A compact seating arrangement for a vehicle, the seating arrangement has at least three seats comprising two rear passenger seats aligned substantially transversely, and a driver's seat arranged substantially centrally and in front of the two rear passenger seats. The driver's seat extends transversely; to be positioned in front of part of each of the passenger seats and extends rearward beyond the front of the legs of the rear passengers (when seated in the passenger seats). Each of the seats being arranged to seat a person in a generally upright position: the seat backs being inclined to the vertical at an angle of 30 degrees or less, an upper surface which supports the occupant of each seat base being spaced 400-500 mm above a substantially horizontal floor space provided adjacent the seats, and the passengers' feet being placed on the horizontal floor space on either side of the driver's seat.
US08550529B2	Vehicle equipment for a mobile appliance A vehicle equipment designed to detachably hold an electronic appliance provided with a screen and manually activatable function keys. This equipment has a cavity (11) designed to hold the appliance and which for that purpose is open at the front. The cavity contains thrust elements (17, 19) in order to wedge the electronic appliance therein, and a cable guide shoe (160), urged by at least some of the thrust elements. This shoe has a passage, or a marked-out passage ready to be cut out (161) through which a lead and its connector (23, 23a) for connecting to the electronic appliance can pass.
US08550527B1	Truck load protection assembly Load protection assembly mounted on a truck, that comprises two side panels edge supported to pivot between horizontally extending down positions and operative up positions extending generally longitudinally, forward, intermediate, and rearward bars having end portions pivotally supported to enable bar pivoting between retracted positions proximate a panel and extended positions in which the bars extends laterally between the panels in panel supporting relation, and side braces carried by the panels to pivot into bar supporting positions when the bars are extended laterally between the panels, there being a carriage to which the forward and intermediate bars are end connected to be bodily moved with the carriage longitudinally forwardly and rearwardly.
US08550523B2	Pick and place system A pick and place system including: moving a vacuum probe in a linear direction using a linear actuator system, moving the vacuum probe in a rotary direction using a rotary actuator system, and applying a vacuum to the vacuum probe to pick up a micro-device after moving the vacuum probe in the linear direction or rotary direction for pickup and movement of the micro-device.
US08550520B2	Method and apparatus for manipulating a substrate A device is disclosed for manipulating a substrate having an inside diameter (ID). The device includes a handle, a trigger that slides within the handle, an alignment shaft and a plurality of substrate supports having distal ends. A plurality of substrate support actuators are connected to the trigger. The trigger can move the plurality of substrate supports between a substrate engaging position and a substrate releasing position through selective engagement of the plurality of substrate supports by the plurality of substrate support actuators. In the substrate engaging position the distal ends of the substrate supports move radially outward to engage the ID of the substrate, enabling the device to hold the substrate without touching the substrate faces. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US08550510B2	Vehicle bumper A vehicle bumper is provided that can increase the rigidity while ensuring a superior drainage capability in the vicinity of the location where the bumper is attached to a side face member. A vehicle bumper includes a middle portion extending in vehicle width direction, two lateral portions extending from the two ends of the middle portion towards side face members (front fender panels), an upper flange protruding inward, with respect to a vehicle body, from an upper edge of the lateral portions, an attachment flange that is continuous with the upper flange near an end of the lateral portions and protruding further inside the vehicle body than the upper flange, a long groove formed by a depression in an upper face of the upper flange, at least one rib that partitions the long groove in vehicle width direction into depressions, and water drainage holes formed in the depressions.
US08550506B2	Multi-point mortise lock mechanism for swinging door A multipoint mortise lock mechanism for a swinging door, including a central cassette assembly operably coupled to an upper remote locking point assembly and a lower remote locking point assembly by a remote locking linkage. The central cassette assembly includes a housing, a deadbolt mechanism, a latchbolt mechanism, a remote locking point mechanism and an anti-slam mechanism. The anti-slam mechanism includes an anti-slam plunger that when in an extended position engages the remote locking linkage via a boss and a slot and thereby inhibits movement of the remote locking linkage whereby deployment of the remote locking point assemblies is prevented. The deadbolt mechanism includes a deadbolt extendible from the central cassette that is independently operable from the remote locking point mechanism. The deadbolt mechanism further includes an anti-back drive mechanism.
US08550498B2	Impact-damping structure with crash boxes An impact-damping structure with crash boxes is provided with an extension of the ends of the chassis members of a vehicle to a transverse impact member. An extension pipe with a towing lug that aligns flush with the chassis member is arranged in a center of one of the crash boxes. The extension pipe is connected with the end of the chassis member via a spreading device of the crash box.
US08550493B2	Airbag device An airbag (18) made of metal is disposed between an edge portion (12a) of a windshield (12) of a vehicle and an outer panel (16), projecting toward an outside of a vehicle body beyond the edge portion (12a), of a front pillar (15). Thus, it is possible to install the airbag device without making large design changes to the existing structure of the vehicle body, and to prevent the external appearance from being deteriorated by the installation of the airbag device. Further, once the airbag (18) made of metal is deployed, the airbag does not shrink. Thus, it is possible not only to reduce the weight and costs by employing an inflator (19) with a smaller volume, but also to cause the airbag to exert a stable shock absorbing capability irrespective of the difference in the timing of the collision of a pedestrian. Further, a part of the airbag (18) is a garnish part (18a) forming an outer surface of the vehicle body in cooperation with the outer panel (16). Thus, it is possible to reduce the number of parts and costs by making the garnish part (18a) exert the garnish function.
US08550490B1	Steerable wheelbarrow A steerable wheelbarrow is described which includes two handles coupled to a tray and two legs coupled to the handles. A mount is also coupled to the handles. A pivot is coupled to the mount at an angle between vertical and horizontal. An axle, having at least one wheel, is coupled to the pivot. A pivot support is coupled to the pivot and to the mount. An axle assembly is described, which may be attached to a regular wheelbarrow. The axle assembly includes a mount and a pivot. The pivot has a first and a second end. The first end is coupled to the mount at an angle between vertical and horizontal. An axle is rotatably coupled to the pivot at a location between the first and the second end of the pivot. A pivot support is coupled to the second end of the pivot and to the mount.
US08550489B2	Folding baby stroller system and method A baby stroller for transporting an infant at speeds faster than normal walking is disclosed. This baby stroller can be folded to make it easier to stow and transport. The folding mechanism, a unique feature of the design is directed toward compactness, ease of use, reliability, and reduction in manufacturing costs.
US08550485B2	Truck bed hitch attachment An above-bed structure having two or more feet is attached into a bed of a truck using inserts which can be removed or retracted to provide a flat, unobstructed truck bed. Each insert includes an above-bed cleat portion and a below-bed peg portion which is received in a below-bed socket. Each insert is received first vertically without substantial rotation into its socket and then by rotation to a terminal point wherein the insert is vertically held by the socket. The above bed structure is then placed onto the inserts such that the feet mate with the inserts to prevent the inserts from rotating away from their terminal point, thus preventing the inserts from being removed from their sockets. The attachment can be completed by inserting mounting pins into aligned holes on the cleat portions and the feet. In one embodiment, the feet are supported on a bed place section of the insert which is offset from the rotational axis of the insert.
US08550484B1	Adjustable bicycle handle bar adapter and associated method A bicycle headstock assembly may include a lower member adapted to be attached to a steering rod of the bicycle, and an upper member adjustably connected to the lower member. A pivot joint may be formed at a connection of the lower and upper members respectively. A handle bar clamp may be connected to the upper member and extending away therefrom. A primary fastener may pass through a first location of the pivot joint while an auxiliary fastener may pass through a second location of the pivot joint respectively. In this way, the primary and auxiliary fasteners may cooperate to permit the upper member to selectively pivot and lock at alternate positions relative to the lower member.
US08550483B2	Locking collar for a bicycle hub assembly A locking collar capable of coupling a hub-and-axle subassembly to a fork dropout of a bicycle for locking an antifriction bearing in place includes an outward pressed surface adapted to confront a pressing surface of the fork dropout, an inward abutting surface adapted to confront the antifriction bearing, an axially extending female threaded surface adapted to be screwed on a threaded end segment of an axle, a tubular extension extending from the outward pressed surface to be insertable into the fork dropout, and a plurality of circumferentially extending rib segments which are disposed on the outward pressed surface to be in pressing engagement with the pressing surface of the fork dropout in a tightened state.
US08550478B2	Buggy provided with a braking mechanism A buggy includes a frame, at least one wheel coupled to the frame and formed with a recess, and a braking mechanism provided to the wheel and including a braking rod that has a first end. The braking mechanism is movable between a free position, where the first end of the braking rod is free from the wheel and the wheel is rotatable, and a braking position, where the first end of the braking rod is received in the recess in the wheel such that the rotation of the wheel is limited.
US08550476B1	Dual directional hand truck A hand truck comprised of a frame assembly and a wheel assembly connected by slidable cylinders permitting both vertical and rotational movement between the cylinders. The frame assembly cylinder is mounted at a predetermined angle so that when the cylinder is vertical, the frame is reclined in a load balanced attitude. While in the load balanced attitude, the frame assembly can be raised by any suitable means in relation to the wheel assembly on a surface. Once the frame assembly is at a height great enough to clear the wheels, the wheel assembly can be rotated thus enabling movement parallel to a linier load. Further, when the frame assembly is in the lower position, the two slidable cylinders are locked together to provide use as a conventional hand truck or unlocked and reoriented, thus providing the ability to move a linier load laterally with ample ground clearance.
US08550474B2	Modular shopping cart A cart (20, 50, 90) includes a plurality of removable baskets (24, 54, 94) having respective rims (40, 76). A foldable frame (22, 52, 92) has folded and unfolded configurations, and includes multiple wheels (32, 65, 108, 110) and an upper supporting structure (36, 58, 98), which is capable, when the frame is in the unfolded configuration, of supporting the baskets side-by-side by the respective rims.
US08550472B2	Rotary retention latch for replaceable skate blade systems A replaceable blade system for ice skates is provided with a rotary retention latch located within an enclosed chamber of the holder of the skate. The rotary retention latch is configured with a release lever that is adapted to be accessed through an aesthetic aperture in the holder.
US08550469B2	Multi-layered composite gasket A multi-layered composite gasket (10) includes three, preferably metallic cores (12, 14). A solid center core (12) is flanked on both sides by bonded paper layers (30). Perforated cores (14) mechanically interlock with each paper layer (30) through inwardly directed tangs (22). Graphite layers (26) are disposed outside of each perforated core (14) and are mechanically interlocked thereto by outwardly directed tangs (20) extending from the perforated cores (14). When using the gasket (10) material for sealing cylinder heads in internal combustion engines, a fire ring (46) may be affixed with a fire ring holder (48). The gasket (10) can be manufactured by making first and second preform sheets (32) comprised of one perforated core (14) sided with one paper layer (30) and one graphite layer (26). The preform sheets (32) are then bonded to a center core (12) using a heat activated adhesive. Combining rollers (42) compress and densify the layers to form the completed material set which can be stored on a coil (44) or cut into sheets.
US08550462B2	Mechanical drawing machine and game apparatus including the same It is an object to identify which of a plurality of rotationally moving drawing pockets a drawing object has entered into, without using a detecting means unit that moves together with the drawing pockets, from a result of detection by a fixedly arranged detecting means unit. The present mechanical drawing machine includes a drawing pocket forming member which can hold a drawing object having entered into each drawing pocket inside of the drawing pocket while rotationally moving so as to pass through a site adjacent to a stationary base, an object detecting unit which is provided on the stationary base, and detects that a drawing object which is held inside of the drawing pocket has passed through an object detecting site on an orbit of the drawing pockets, a mark forming and moving member which forms a plurality of mutually different marks corresponding to the drawing pockets, respectively, and rotationally moves the marks in synchronization with rotational movement of the drawing pocket forming member, a mark content reading unit which is provided on the stationary base, and reads a mark content when each mark passes through a mark detecting site on an orbit of the marks, and a pocket identifying unit which, based on a timing at which the object detecting unit detected passage of a drawing object or a mark content read by the mark content reading unit, identifies a drawing pocket into which the drawing object has entered.
US08550461B2	Sheet stacking apparatus and image forming apparatus A sheet stacking apparatus includes an endless belt member onto which sheets are stacked and which moves rotationally to convey the sheets; a plurality of holding members that is provided on the belt member and that holds the sheets down to a sheet stacking surface of the belt member to nip the sheets; and sheet detecting portions which detect presence or absence of sheets between the holding members and the sheet stacking surface of the belt member, the sheet detecting portions each include a light emitting portion that emits light and a light receiving portion that receives the light, and the light emitting portions and the light receiving portions are fixedly provided below the sheet stacking surface of the belt member so that the light emitting portions and the light receiving portions detect presence or absence of a sheet at times when facing the holding members.
US08550458B2	Paper feeder and image forming apparatus A paper feeder according to the present invention includes a paper entrance block arranged above a flapper on au upstream side of a paper feed roller in a paper feeding direction. The flapper is configured to be capable of swinging in a vertical direction so as to alter its position between a first position in which part of a top face thereof on a downstream side in the paper feeding direction comes into contact with the paper feed roller and a second position in which the part thereof is located lower than the first position. The paper entrance block is configured so that when the flapper is in the first position, the lower end thereof comes into contact with the flapper and when the flapper is in the second position, a clearance is formed in a vertical direction between the paper entrance block and the flapper.
US08550457B2	Paper feeding module and multi-function printer using the same A paper feeding module and multi-function printer using the same are provided. The multi-function printer includes a body, a paper transferring passage and a paper feeding module. The paper transferring passage includes an entrance. The paper feeding module includes a photoreceptor axle, a transferring axle and a skew correction axle. The photoreceptor axle is disposed on the paper transferring passage. The transferring axle is disposed next to the photoreceptor axle and contacts the photoreceptor axle. The skew correction axle is disposed between the entrance of the paper transferring passage and the photoreceptor axle. The skew correction axle contacts the transferring axle. The axes of the photoreceptor axle, the transferring axle and the skew correction axle are parallel to one another.
US08550449B2	Gear clutch assembly and electronic device using the same A gear clutch assembly and an electronic device are provided. The gear clutch assembly comprises a pivot, a driving gear engaged with the pivot and adapted to rotate along the pivot, and a driven gear disposed on the driving gear. The driving gear comprises a first surface, a ratchet integrally formed with the driving gear comprising a plurality of teeth disposed on the first surface. The driving gear comprises a second surface facing the first surface, and a pawl integrally formed with the driven gear on the second surface. When the driving gear rotates in a driving direction, one of the teeth is engaged with the pawl and drives the driven gear to rotates with the driving gear. When the driving gear rotates in an opposite direction, every tooth pushes up and slides under the pawl so the driven gear does not rotate along with the driving gear.
US08550446B2	Scanning-printing integrated apparatus A scanning-printing integrated apparatus comprises a scanning passage (1), a printing passage (3) communicated with the scanning passage (1), a transitional passage (2) providing printing medium to the printing passage (3), a first driving mechanism for driving the paper conveying roller (12) of the scanning passage (1) and the paper conveying roller (312) of the printing passage (3), and a second driving mechanism for driving the paper conveying roller (21) of the transitional passage (2) and the paper conveying roller (312) of the printing passage (3). The two ends of the paper conveying roller (312) of the printing passage (3) are respectively transmission-connected to the first driving mechanism and the second driving mechanism via one-way bearings (71, 72). By providing one-way bearings at the two ends of the paper conveying roller of the printing passage, the first driving mechanism and the second driving mechanism work independently without interfering with each other, so that the two driving mechanisms drive the manuscript or printing paper to be freely conveyed in the scanning passage, the printing passage and the transitional passage without increasing loads.
US08550442B2	Workpiece holding device, system and method The present invention relates to a workpiece holding device (101, 201) comprising a substantially spherical ball (107, 207) with means for releasably retaining a workpiece (901), a socket (102, 202) with a first ball-receiving surface (105, 205) and means for mounting said socket (102, 202) on a worktable (905), and means for releasably clamping said ball (107, 207) against said first ball-receiving surface (105, 205). The first ball-receiving surface (105, 205) is shaped on a ball-receiving element (104, 204) mounted moveable, within said socket (102, 202), along at least one axis in a plane substantially perpendicular to its clamping force. The invention also relates to a workpiece holding system comprising three workpiece holding devices (101, 201, 301), as well as to a method for using this workpiece holding system.
US08550438B2	Portable winch assembly This invention relates to a portable winch assembly (10; 210) comprising a footplate (12; 212), a support frame (14; 214) which is locatable upon the footplate, a magazine (16; 216) which is locatable upon the support frame, and a drive mechanism (22; 222) which is connectable to the magazine to drive the magazine to rotate. The foot plate, support frame, magazine and drive mechanism comprise separable components which may be transported separately to a site of use and assembled into the winch at the site of use. The invention can provide a portable winch assembly capable of generating a tensile force of up to 10 tonnes, and is therefore suitable for pipe pulling and pipe bursting applications for example, and yet is made up of parts which can readily be carried to the site of use, which site of use may be inaccessible for vehicles.
US08550437B2	Tool with working and positioning devices A tool includes a handle, a working device, a positioning device, a clamping device, and a fine adjustment mechanism. The handle includes a pivotal end, a grip end, and a plurality of retaining sections. The working device is pivotally connected to the pivotal end of the handle. The positioning device is moveable between a fixing position and an adjusting position. The clamping device is adjustably positioned on the handle. The fine adjustment mechanism for fine adjusting the clamping device is adjustably positioned on the handle and engaged with the clamping device. The fine adjustment mechanism includes at least one positioning unit alternatively engaged with a selective one of the plurality of retaining sections to fix the clamping device to the handle in position. The clamping device is adapted to be fine adjustably moved through a distance smaller than a pitch between two adjacent retaining sections.
US08550435B2	Optical fibre installation apparatus A device for use with apparatus for installing a cable into a tube, the apparatus including means to mechanically drive the cable into the tube, the device being suitable for directing an air flow into the tube and comprising a bore into which the air flow is directed, the bore having a length and a longitudinal axis, shielding means to reduce air flow from the bore along the longitudinal axis of the bore, wherein the shielding means extends the length of the bore, and wherein the bore is formed from the shielding means.
US08550434B1	Cylinder jack stand A device acting as a cylindrical jack stand is described. The device includes at least one encirclement band. The encirclement band or bands are removably attached to the cylindrical jack by attaching a handle through the bands to the jack. The bands include apertures for one or more accessories. The apertures are aligned with an extended region of the base such that any accessories inserted in the apertures are supported by the extended region of the base.
US08550429B2	Pneumatic safety coupler A coupling assembly for a compressed air circuit has locking device for releasably engaging first and second sub-assemblies located at respective ends of first and second air lines. The first air line is connected to a tool adapted for compressed air operation, and the second air line is connected to a supply of compressed air. A valve controls the flow of compressed air between the first and second air lines. The valve is connected to the second sub-assembly and is slidably movable between a first position where it allows compressed air flow, and a second position where it prevents compressed air flow. The coupling assembly has stop element for preventing disengagement of the first and second sub-assemblies when the valve is in the first position.
US08550427B2	Normally-open solenoid valve including plunger formed with pressure receiving portion A solenoid valve includes a solenoid coil, a yoke of magnetic material, an armature of magnetic material to move in an axial direction of the solenoid coil when the solenoid coil is energized, a plunger to be moved with the armature, a valve seat member including a seat portion formed with a valve hole to be closed and opened by a forward end portion of the plunger, and a coil spring which is disposed between a spring receiving portion of the plunger and the valve seat member, around the plunger. The plunger includes a pressure receiving portion (such as a flat portion) which extends in a radial direction of the plunger at a position between the forward end portion and the spring receiving portion of the plunger, and which faces to the seat portion.
US08550424B2	Cartridge including an anti-ram device A cartridge including an anti-ram device comprises a multiple braking mechanism, including at least two pistons housed in the cover/driver element of a top movable plate, on the sides of a milled ball seat of the faucet control rod.
US08550418B2	Syringe hanger A syringe holder is provided for mounting syringe while the syringe is distributing fluid. The syringe holder includes a hook, a main body, and a receiver. The receiver is operatively configured to deploy away from the main body when the syringe is disposed in the receiver.
US08550417B2	Pivoting hook retention system A retaining system for an articulating support hook held in snap-in relation to a support surface underlying a vehicle headliner. The support hook assembly includes a hook member which is adapted to pivot between open and closed positions as desired. The hook assembly is stable in both the open and the closed positions and is not reliant upon internal springs for operation. The retaining system for the support hook assembly is not dependent upon screws or other attachment elements.
US08550410B2	Mobile electronic device (MED) mounting and positioning bracket assembly A novel bracket assembly enables secure retrofit mounting and positioning of a mobile electronic device (MED) such as smart phone, portable GPS navigation appliance, iPod/MP3 player, or satellite radio to an ideal, driver-convenient locale. The vehicle-specific bracket system design provides for easy driver-line-of-sight device-interaction without causing interference with vehicle operation, windshield visibility, ventilation, or switch controls.
US08550399B2	Fuselage structure for an aircraft fuselage in composite material and aircraft equipped with such a fuselage structure A fuselage structure for an aircraft fuselage in composite material and an aircraft including such a fuselage structure. The fuselage structure provides savings in mass while allowing grounding of electric systems, and with which substantial mechanical stiffness characteristics may be guaranteed. In the fuselage structure attachment modules provide an assembling function as well as an electric function.
US08550396B2	Toilet paper dispenser for covering wall-mounted pre-existing toilet paper roller and automating hands-free toilet paper extraction therefrom A toilet paper dispenser has a housing to cover a wall-mounted pre-existing toilet paper roller. The housing defines a rear periphery defining a wall opening configured for accepting the toilet paper roller therethrough. A pair of operating rollers are rotatably mounted in the housing and are closely spaced from each other to closely receive toilet paper from toilet paper roller therebetween. A motor is mounted in the housing and is coupled to the operating rollers to rotate at least one of the rollers. A presence sensor and a processor are included with the housing, where the processor is capable of receiving signals from the presence sensor. Responsive to a signal from the presence sensor indicating the presence of a hand, the processor energizes the motor to turn the operating rollers. The housing has a bottom opening through which toilet paper is dispensed when the operating rollers are turned.
US08550395B2	Apparatus and method for dispensing tape A dispensing apparatus includes a first running spool of elongated material and second and third stand-by spools of elongated material. The first spool has a trailing end portion and a first obstacle element secured to its trailing end portion. The second spool has a leading end portion and a first catching mechanism secured to the leading end portion, as well as a trailing end portion with a second obstacle element secured to its trailing end portion. The third spool has a leading end portion and a second catching mechanism secured to its leading end portion. A support member is configured to at least partially support the leading end portions of both the second and third spools.
US08550393B2	Recording tape cartridge A recording tape cartridge has: a reel around which a recording tape is wound; a UHF band RFID tag structured to include a tag antenna formed such that radiating portions are disposed at both sides of a power feed portion; and a case in which the reel is housed. Radiating portion spaces, in which are housed regions of the UHF band RFID tag at which the radiating portions are set, and a power feed portion space, in which is housed at least a portion of a region at which the power feed portion is set, are formed within the case at an outer side of a reel space. Regions at which the radiating portions are formed do not contact a reel area rib and a rear upper wall that surround the radiating portion spaces.
US08550391B2	Brush cutter A cutting tooth having a blade-like cutting section and a mounting section extending down from the bottom of the cutting section. The mounting section is narrower and shorter than the cutting section, and generally centered with respect to the cutting section. The mounting section has laterally extending flanges spaced from the cutting section. At least a quarter of the cutting section extends past the front of the mounting section and terminating in a cutting edge.The cutting tooth is adapted to be mounted in a mounting block to form a cutting assembly. The mounting block has a slot extending into the block from the front face, the slot open in the top surface of the block. The mounting section of the tooth slides into the slot in the block to locate the cutting section on the top of the block with the cutting section projecting forwardly of the block. The flanges on the tooth hold the tooth in place in the block against centrifugal forces. The cutting assembly is adapted to be mounted between two collars on a brush cutting drum with the cutting tooth above the periphery of the collars.
US08550389B2	Imp mill having a uniform wear hammer arrangement A hammermill, such as an imp mill 10, for pulverizing material includes a housing 16 defining a grinding chamber 14 having a grinding apparatus 12 disposed therein. The material is fed into the grinding chamber to the grinding apparatus through an inlet conduit 24, and the resulting ground material is directed from the grinding chamber through an outlet conduit 28. The grinding apparatus includes a plurality of hammer disks 32 axially spaced along a rotor 34, wherein disks 32 are disposed within the grinding chamber 14. A plurality of rows 41-46 of hammers 30 is attached to the hammer disks 32. The hammers 30 of each respective row of hammers are circumferentially spaced around the hammer disks 32, wherein each row of hammers is formed to provide generally uniform wear across each row of hammers. The uniform wear may be achieved by forming the hammers 30 of different hardness or wear resistant qualities, and/or configuring the rows of hammers with different shapes.
US08550384B2	Dust control system and method for a straw blower The dust control system is adapted for use with a straw blowing machine. The straw blowing machine typically starts with a bale of straw and utilizes a shredder to loosen the straw from the bale. A blower fan then blows the straw to a throat of a chute and the chute then directs the straw where desired. The dust suppression system includes at least one water inlet applying water to the straw before the straw exits an outlet tip of the chute. Water tanks are preferably provided which feed the water inlets in a controllable fashion to meter an appropriate amount of water to cause dust included with the straw to adhere to the straw and avoid degrading air quality when the straw is ejected out of the chute.
US08550383B2	Automatic switching directional nozzles in irrigation systems Directional spray heads on each side of each tower over the wheels spray water behind the trailing wheel and not in front of the wheels. A control box activates the direction of travel of the wheels at the towers through a tower box at each tower. Solenoids wired to the tower box for switching power alternately to each wheel, switch the water flow via the solenoids to directional spray sprinklers spraying behind the trailing wheel.
US08550378B2	Automated cleansing sprayer An automated sprayer for spraying the walls of a shower enclosure with a liquid cleanser dispenses the cleanser using a pumping system and rotatable spray head. The sprayer has a showerhead mountable housing with an adjustable hanger. There is a portion of the housing for supporting a bottle of cleanser in an inverted fashion. The bottle is vented through a piercing post. A single motor both drives the pump and rotates the spray head.
US08550374B2	Vehicle headlight cleaning apparatus A main body of the cleaning apparatus is of a cylindrical structure and internally provided with a compression spring and a movable seal valve which is matched with the inner wall of a casing of the cleaning apparatus. When cleaning solution flows in the cleaning apparatus through a cleaning solution inlet on a base, the pressure of the cleaning solution overcomes the spring force of the compression spring and drives a transmission guide rod, the movable seal valve and a nozzle to move together, and the transmission guide rod stops when moving to a limit position. When cleaning is finished, the pressure of the cleaning solution disappears, the movable seal valve is closed under the function of the compression spring then the transmission guide rod retracts into the casing and closes.
US08550371B2	Thermostatic assembly for fluid flow adjustment, and method making for such assembly A thermostat assembly including a flow blocking sleeve and a seat between which is defined a flow passage through which a fluid can flow and wherein the sleeve has an end opposing a bearing surface of the seat which extends perpendicular to an axis of the sleeve, and wherein the sleeve and the seat are movable relative to one another by movement of a piston of a thermostatic member to thereby control flow through the flow passage which is radial to the axis and wherein a gasket is crimped within a housing formed between a lateral wall adjacent the end of the sleeve and a ring so as to be secured to be normally engaged with the bearing surface to prevent flow through the flow passage unless the passage is opened by separation of the gasket from the bearing surface by movement of the piston in response to the thermostatic member being activated.
US08550369B2	Programmable water heater thermostat controller A programmable water heater thermostat controller that attaches over the temperature control unit of existing gas or electric water heaters. The user programs the temperature of water required at different times of the day. A microcontroller then compares the current temperature setting against desired setting every minute and rotates the temperature control knob accordingly using a geared electric motor. If vacation mode is chosen, then the microcontroller skips program times and keeps the temperature control knob at the lowest temperature setting.
US08550366B2	Method, apparatus and computer program for embedding barcode in color image A barcode-embedding area is obtained in a color image based on expression possibility by the juxtaposed additive color mixture and possibility of reading of pixels separately by a barcode reader (S11), a color image in the barcode-embedding area is expressed by the juxtaposed additive color mixture, and color images for the code area and the background area, which are readable by the barcode reader, are created (S12, S13), a color-image-superimposed barcode image is created by using the color images for the code area and the background area, and the same color-image-superimposed barcode image is embedded in the barcode-embedding area (S14), and the color-image-superimposed barcode image and the original color image are corrected if necessary (S15, S16).
US08550365B1	System for managing the nutritional content for nutritional substances Disclosed herein is an information encoding, marking, tracking, and transmission system for information related to nutritional substances, including nutritional content. Upon the creation of a nutritional substance, whether grown, raised, caught, collected or synthesized, information regarding the nutritional substance is accumulated, encoded and referenced to the particular nutritional substance. This information can be marked directly on the nutritional substance, but can instead be stored elsewhere, and referenced to the nutritional substance by means of a marking, unique identifier, a unique inherent property, unique genetic attribute, or an induced genetic attribute. A consumer of the nutritional substance can use this reference to retrieve the information regarding the creation of the particular nutritional substance.
US08550360B2	Peripheral security device built into a contactless object in the form of secure document equipped with a radiofrequency device The invention concerns a contactless portable object (10, 30, 60) featuring a main radiofrequency device made up of a main chip (18, 38, 68) and a main antenna (16, 36, 66) connected together so that, when the portable object enters the magnetic field of a suitable reader, the main radiofrequency device provides power to the chip and ensures communication between the chip and the reader. According to the main characteristic of the invention, the portable object includes a secondary contactless device featuring a secondary antenna (12, 32, 62) and an electric circuit set up in such a way that, when the two antennas enter the magnetic field of a suitable reader at the same time, the amount of energy required to power the electric circuit and have it operational being less than the amount of energy required to power the main chip (18, 38, 68) and have it operational, the electric circuit is powered and makes the reading of data of the main chip impossible.
US08550358B2	Procedure for data encoding and reading starting from interference of wave patterns generated in a printed chromatic system A method for identifying counterfeit cards and supports that can be used in such method. Such supports may be made of materials such as paper, cardboard, plastics and others. The creation of interference wave patterns generated starting from the interaction between an electromagnetic emitting source and particles installed in the cards or support, for example: by a printing processes. The so produced particle interactions (involving photons and electrons) provides complex interference maps in which constituent variables define wave junction conditions characteristic of the interaction between each INFORMATION BLOCK of particles. The BLOCKS are created/built in accordance to those variables' statements, and located at different points in the support. To be approved as a valid Data point, the wave function present at each of these Points should match those stored in an extremely complex Data Matrix.
US08550355B2	Anti-condensation optical device An anti-condensation arrangement for an optical apparatus including a window mounted in a housing comprises an isolating member sealed around an end of an image collecting device of the optical apparatus and around a perimeter of the window, the isolating member substantially preventing airflow between a portion of the housing surrounding the isolating member and a space enclosed by the isolating member.
US08550350B2	Color barcode with enhanced capacity and readability for a closed loop system Disclosed is a method for determining optimum color gradation levels used by a color gradation barcode in a system including a rendering device for rendering the barcode and a detector for detecting the barcode. The method includes: (a) obtaining input color gradation data; (b) rendering, by using the rendering device, a test pattern based on the input color gradation data, the test pattern comprising at least one color gradation pattern; (c) detecting, by using the detector, the rendered test pattern to generate detected color gradation data; (d) based on the detected color gradation data and the input color gradation data, determining a plurality of optimum color gradation levels to be used for a color gradation barcode; and (e) storing the plurality of optimum color gradation levels.
US08550349B2	System for recovering a barcode A barcode recovery system, including: an image processor configured to determine a binary vector corresponding to a blurry barcode image by: maximizing an objective function that models the system using splines. Optimizing the objective function may be efficiently accomplished by constraining a search on each bit in the barcode image to a nearby range of influence of other bits in the barcode image. Further efficiency may be gained by enumerating the local groups of bits in graycode order and by adding or subtracting values from a precomputed inner product matrix to state variables to compute the complete objective function.
US08550346B2	Low-altitude low-speed small target intercepting method Systems and methods allow for intercepting a small, low-altitude and low-velocity target. A system includes a detecting apparatus, a directing control apparatus, an aiming control apparatus, a launch control apparatus, a launching device, and an intercepting device. A method includes: searching and tracking a target by the detecting apparatus in a networking mode, or by the aiming control apparatus in a single-soldier mode; sending target information to the launch control apparatus; performing a trajectory calculation by the launch control apparatus; and launching the intercepting device by the launching device to intercept the target. A low-cost system with a short response time can thus be realized. The target falls with the net at a low velocity under a parachute, and this is desirable in a city environment.
US08550342B2	Controlling connectivity of a wireless smart card reader A system includes a wireless-enabled smart card reader able to be connected concurrently to at least two devices and a mobile device able to be connected wirelessly to the smart card reader and to control connections of the smart card reader.
US08550337B2	Systems and methods for programming a remote control device Methods and systems related to codes that are usable by a remote control device to remotely control a function of the electronic device are described. The methods and systems may also include transmitting the codes to the remote control device via a remote control device interface.
US08550332B2	Carton with opening feature and blank A dispensing carton includes a dispenser section having a deformation pattern provided therein. The deformation pattern facilitates removal of the dispenser section during opening of the carton.
US08550327B2	Clad solder thermal interface material A clad solder thermal interface material is described. In one example the material has a a first layer of solder having a melting temperature lower than a temperature of a particular solder reflow furnace, a second layer of solder clad to the first layer of solder, the second layer having a melting temperature higher than the temperature of the solder reflow furnace, and a third layer of solder clad to the second layer of solder opposite the first layer, the third layer having a melting temperature lower than the temperature of the solder reflow furnace.
US08550324B2	Depth adjustment for fastening tool A fastening tool for driving a fastener into a workpiece includes a trigger assembly that activates a driver sequence that drives the fastener into the workpiece. A contact trip mechanism has a blocking member connected to a carrier member. The contact trip mechanism is moveable between an extended position and a retracted position. In the extended position, the blocking member prevents the trigger assembly from activating the driver sequence. A depth adjustment assembly includes an adjuster member moveable between at least a first position associated with a first depth setting and a second position associated with a second depth setting. The adjuster member is moveable to obstruct the carrier member, when the contact trip mechanism moves from the extended position to the retracted position.
US08550323B2	Driving tool A technique is provided which contributes to improvement in workability in a driving tool.The driving tool includes a cam switching member 183 and a driving mechanism 115. The cam switching member 183 normally holds a cam member 137 in an inoperative position, and when a user's driving operation is performed, it performs a switching movement to move the cam member 137 from the inoperative position to an operative position and further to return the cam member 137 from the operative position to the inoperative position. When the earn member 137 moves from the inoperative position to the operative position, the earn member 137 moves a driving member 133 for the driving mechanism to a first position in a direction of a rotational axis of a rotating member 131. At this time, the driving mechanism 115 mechanically engages with the driving member 133 for the driving mechanism in the first position and performs a movement of driving a material to be driven. When the user's driving operation is performed, the cam switching member 183 is moved to a connection standby position in which the cam switching member 183 can be connected to a rotationally driven element 179 which rotates together with the rotating member 131. Further, when the driving member 133 for the driving mechanism is placed in a predetermined rotational angular position in the direction of rotation of the rotating member 131, the cam switching member 183 is connected to the rotationally driven element 179.
US08550321B2	Tool for driving fasteners A hand-held power tool powered by a gas combustion mechanism comprising a first combustion chamber, a second chamber within a driving cylinder having aft and fore ends. The first combustion chamber in fluid communication with the second chamber via the aft end, a fan assembly, a driver assembly having a piston and driver movable therewithin between the aft and fore end, and a drive motor operably connected to the driver assembly. In use, whilst the piston is at or near the fore end of the driving cylinder, the fan assembly introduces air into the chambers thereby at least partially pressuring the air there within, fuel gas is introduced into the combustion chamber to form an air/fuel gas mixture therein, the drive motor operably moves the piston to a position at or near the aft end thereby compressing the air/fuel gas mixture within the combustion chamber so that the air/fuel mixture is ignited to impart motion onto the and to facilitate the operation of the tool.
US08550320B2	Driving machine According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a driving device including: a driver bit for striking a fastener loaded in a launching section; a driver for driving the fastener from the launching section by reciprocating the driver bit; a triggering device pullable to control the driver; and a locking device that locks the pulling operation of the triggering device when being set to a lock position and that releases the locking state when being set to a release position, wherein the locking device includes a release device to operate the locking device toward the release position when the triggering device is pulled and a returning device to return the locking device toward the lock position when the pulling is released.
US08550311B2	Attachment device for attaching a pump on a tank and dispenser using such an attachment device A fastener device (1, 2) for fastening a dispenser member (4) on a reservoir neck (51), the device comprising: a ring (1) forming an annular bearing collar (10) for coming to bear against the top (52) of the neck (51), with a gasket (3) possibly being interposed therebetween, and a skirt (11) including a free bottom end (145) and a deformable fastener section (13) that is deformed by thrust on the free end; and a hoop (2) that surrounds the skirt (11) of the ring (1) and constrains the fastener section (13) to deform inwards into contact with the neck (51); the device being characterized in that the deformable fastener section (13) is separated from the free end (145) by a substantially non-deformable bottom section (14) that is in engagement with the hoop (2).
US08550310B2	Peristaltic pump A peristaltic pump assembly and system that facilitates reliable and efficient engagement and removal of a flexible tube. A stator is pivotally retained on a structure and cooperatively operated by a lever arm and cam to engage and disengage the stator from the tube and a corresponding rotor. The stator pivots at a point distal from a point of rotation of the rotor and the lever arm moves about a fixed rotation axis to engage and disengage the stator with the tube relative to the rotor.
US08550305B2	Water cooler A water cooler includes a reservoir with an inlet and an outlet. The water cooler is separated into two compartments by a wall containing at least one opening allowing fluid communication between the compartments. A cooling element extends from a bottom surface of the reservoir through the bottom compartment and through the wall and into the top compartment. Water enters the top compartment through an inlet where it is cooled before flowing into the bottom compartment through any openings in the wall. Water exits the bottom compartment through an outlet.
US08550304B2	Fluid dispenser attached to handle A Fluid Dispenser including a inline fluid dispenser removably attached to a handle which is well suited for usage such as spraying insecticide or anti-fungal solutions, spraying fire retardant solutions, spraying decontaminants, and other situations where mixing of the Inline Fluid Dispenser contents with a fluid source is necessary.
US08550302B1	Wall mounted dispenser A wall mounted dispenser for dispensing a mixture of water and liquid chemicals which may be used as a separate dispenser or in combination with other like dispensers. The dispenser of this invention includes several backflow preventers to ensure that the water supply will not become contaminated during backflow problems.
US08550299B2	Methods and devices for encouraging, educating, entertaining and motivating children to brush their teeth The present invention is methods and devices for encouraging, educating, entertaining, and or motivating children to brush their teeth. In preferred embodiments of the invention, one or more characters are used, each with its own look and personality. The characters are used in a variety of forms and media as the shape of functional devices, advertising, education and entertainment. The characters may also be animated. The characters and their images, associated slogans and brand name may be used on a line of merchandise. The invention in a preferred embodiment includes a toothpaste dispenser or a toy in the shape of one of the characters. The toothpaste dispenser or toy, in a preferred embodiment, is able to talk to, play a song or otherwise communicate with the child to give entertaining, educational or motivating messages to the child regarding brushing their teeth. The invention in another embodiment includes one or more of the characters in the form of finger and or hand puppets. In a preferred embodiment of the hand puppet, the hand puppet has a body in the shape of a smile and toothbrush legs. In another embodiment of the invention, the character is presented in several media including, but not limited to, television, movies, websites, video games, board games, books, magazines, coloring books, stuffed animals, toys, puppets or figurines.
US08550298B2	Microfluidic dispensing assembly A microfluidic dispensing system may include multiple supply lines for simultaneous filling of diaphragm pumps associated with each supply line. Each supply line may fill corresponding groups of diaphragm pumps with a corresponding ingredient to a supply reservoir for the supply line. Accordingly, different groups of diaphragm pumps corresponding to different supply lines may be filled with corresponding ingredients simultaneously. Those ingredients corresponding to the different groups of diaphragm pumps may also be dispensed simultaneously, giving rise to a faster and more efficient fluidic dispensing system.
US08550295B2	Container for dispensing a single test strip The test strip containers accurately dispense one test strip for easy removal. One test strip container includes a slider with a slot that catches a single test strip therein from a stack positioned inside the container. The slider retaining the single test strip moves across the container while the single test strip rides along a ramp or track on the exterior of the container until the single test strip extends above the container. Another test strip container includes inner and outer cylinders. The inner cylinder defines an opening through which a test strip from a stack is dispensed and an external ramp or track. As the outer cylinder rotates about the inner cylinder, a recessed slot in the outer cylinder captures a single test strip, and continued rotation of the outer cylinder causes the test strip to ride along the ramp or track to extend above the cylinders for removal.
US08550291B2	Collapsible handles for cookware The disclosed technology comprises cookware and other vessels (any item capable of non-permeable retention of liquid), such as pots and pans with rugged and collapsible handles which may decrease in length to be ⅓ or less than their extended size and are usable in both a collapsed or an expanded state. Such handles, in embodiments of the disclosed technology, have covers or ends which, in a collapsed configuration of the handle, entirely cover most or all of the extendable portion of the handle, the covers usable as handles when collapsed. Individual links of the handle have inward flanges and protrusions adapted to keep the links from disconnecting, and fold into one another in a cascading manner, either becoming successively smaller, or being of equal overall size or width. Exterior notches on each link are used to keep the links from expanding and contracting into one another without lateral force applied.
US08550290B1	Portable storage system comprising a means for adjustable ventilation A storage container system comprising an arrangement for adjustable ventilation intended for storing at least one article that is thermally sensitive and/or requires ventilation to the ambient atmosphere. The device includes at least one door and at least one aperture ventilation assembly. The aperture ventilation assembly includes a planar wall aperture array and a corresponding planar shutter aperture array, wherein the sliding relationship between the two arrays results in a plurality of ventilation levels, including a fully open state, and a closed state capable of substantially sealing off the contents of the container from the ambient atmosphere. Certain preferred embodiments include a plurality of storage compartments configured within the container's inner volume wherein each compartment is sealed from one another and possesses its own aperture ventilation assembly for ventilation adjustments.
US08550287B2	Sealing a fuel tank against hydrocarbon permeation A tank connection includes a tank formed with a plastic wall having multiple thicknesses, a first thickness being substantially impervious to hydrocarbon permeation, the wall having an opening surrounded by an edge of the wall, a component secured by a weld to an outer surface of the wall, and seal substantially impervious to hydrocarbon permeation, contacting a surface of the component, and biased into elastic contact with said edge.
US08550278B2	Folding box The invention relates to a folding box (1), comprising a base and first and second side walls (2, 3) pivotably connected to the base which, together with the base, form a box open at the top in a folded open state, as well as at least one retaining element (4) disposed on a first side wall (2) and at least one pin (5) mounted so as to be rotatable on a second side wall (3), and the at least one pin (5) has a cross-section that is not circular on at least one pin end (5a, 5b) and the at least one pin end (5a, 5b) locks the first to the second side wall (2, 3) by means of the retaining element (4) in a first rotational position and unlocks said side walls (2, 3) in a second rotational position.
US08550277B2	Cage for handling or storing goods A collecting cage has a front end to which at least one door is pivoted with the aid of a pivoting device. The cage also has at least three lateral walls. The pivoting device is adapted to pivot the door to an opened position and to a closed position thus covering at least part of it. The pivoting device is adapted to guide the door in an opened position to a direction parallel to a lateral wall and at a clearance therefrom for flanking the cage. The pivoting device includes at least two angle members connected to the door at a distance from each other and having a first portion protruding from the door and having a second portion in an angled position relative to the first portion, and at least two corresponding rails connected to a lateral wall.
US08550276B2	Cylindrical structure made up of rectangular elements A cylindrical structure includes a vertical wall (3) and a bottom wall (2), the bottom wall having a plurality of sectors (4) which are rotated images of each other, each sector including a plurality of adjacent rectangular elements (8), characterized by the fact that the bottom wall has the shape of a regular polygon whereof each side (6) corresponds to one of the sectors, the edges of the rectangular elements of one sector being respectively perpendicular and parallel to the side of the polygon corresponding to the sector.
US08550274B2	ISO container with extendable corner blocks A transport device such as an ISO container that is adapted to be transported by air or surface transportation. The transport device includes a base, a plurality of movable ISO corner blocks movably coupled to the base, and a plurality of adjustment mechanisms. Each adjustment mechanism is adapted to couple a respective corner block to the base and to selectively move the corner block with respect to the base.
US08550273B2	Cryogenic vials A vial including an end wall with a given perimeter, a side wall depending from the end wall about the given perimeter, and a plug wall depending from the end wall such that an outer surface of the plug wall is radially inward and spaced from the side wall. The plug wall has an attached end portion and a free end portion. The outer surface along the attached end portion of the plug wall is angled relative to the end wall by a first angle and the outer surface along the free end portion is angled relative to the outer surface along the attached end portion and extends at a second angle relative to the end wall with the second angle being larger than the first angle.
US08550272B2	Extrusion blow molded pet container having superior column strength An extrusion blowmolded PET container having superior top load strength characteristics includes a sidewall having an outer surface, and an inner surface that defines an interior space. The sidewall is fabricated from a material that includes extrudable PET. The sidewall is shaped to define a bottom portion, a finish portion and a main body portion. The finish portion has an opening defined therein that is in communication with the interior space. The main body portion has a neck surface, a shoulder surface and a fillet that is defined between the neck surface and the shoulder surface. The neck surface forms a first angle with respect to a longitudinal axis of the container that is substantially within a range of about 2° to about 20°, and the fillet has an average radius of curvature that is substantially within a range of about 15 mm to about 55 mm. The container is preferably fabricated using an extrusion blowmolding process.
US08550269B2	Drink bottle and lid with cover for drink spout A drink bottle with a removable lid includes an inner lid attached to the mouth of the bottle and an outer lid or cover pivotably mounted on said inner lid. A drink spout extends from the inner lid. The outer lid or cover may be locked into a closed position covering the drink spout. A push button release is activated to unlock the outer lid and permit the outer lid to pivot to a position exposing the drink spout for access by a user. The outer lid may be snapped of the inner lid by moving the outer lid beyond an open position. A bail handle on the outer lid is retained in a stowed position in a recess in the outer lid or is moved to a deployed position. The bail handle disconnects from the outer lid when moved beyond the deployed position. The push button for releasing the closed outer lid is enclosed within a tunnel in the inner lid.
US08550267B2	Apparatus for cable management synchronized with telescopic motion Disclosed herein is an apparatus for cable management synchronized with telescopic motion. The apparatus is configured such that cables for transmitting power or signals to a manipulator provided on a lower end of a telescopic tube and for receiving signals therefrom are wound or unwound in response to expansion or contraction of the telescopic tube. Moreover, the apparatus is configured such that the cables are prevented from being displaced from the correct positions, a noise is prevented from being generated, and the tension of each cable is adjusted even when it is in the clamped state.
US08550264B2	Inclined display shelves and accessories therefor Containers are mounted in rows on a display rack having shelves inclined upwardly so that articles on the shelf tend to slide forwardly. The containers arranged in rows located side by side across the width of the shelf are formed of board or as transparent plastic jars. Each container has a base on the shelf, upstanding front and rear walls and upstanding side walls with the front and rear walls inclined at a wall angle to a plane at right angles to the base the base so that with the base sitting on the inclined shelf the front and rear walls stand substantially upright. The front wall is higher than the rear wall to provide an exposed strip of each container of the row so that all strips can be seen in front elevation. The strip can be marked with a bar code.
US08550261B2	Product dispensing system with flexing container A product dispensing system including a dispenser having an upper support deck that defines a deck opening and a lower support deck that defines a product display area, a container positioned on the upper support deck, the container including first and second walls that define an internal volume, wherein the first wall defines an opening having a longitudinal length that is aligned with the deck opening, and wherein the second wall includes a lower portion proximate the container opening, and a plurality of products initially housed in the internal volume, wherein the dispenser is spaced from the lower portion of the second wall such that the lower portion bows outward and increases the longitudinal length when a product engages the lower portion as it exits the container through the container opening.
US08550254B2	Liquid ejecting head and liquid ejecting apparatus having resin wrapped filter A liquid ejecting head includes a head body that has a nozzle opening for ejecting liquid supplied via a liquid supply path. A first supply member for the liquid supply path has an introduction port for introducing the liquid. A second supply member is positioned on a downstream side of the first supply member. A filter between the first and second supply members crosses the liquid supply path. An integrated molding portion fixes the first and second supply members by resin in a state where the filter is pinched between the first and second supply members. The first and second supply members have pinching portions for pinching the filter therebetween. A wall surface is positioned on one of the first and second supply members and between the filter and the resin to surround an outer periphery of the filter.
US08550252B2	Waste recycling systems, processes, and methods The present invention refers to a system, process, and method of collecting, handling and processing paperboard based fast food service items for the production of pulp suitable for reuse into paper or paperboard and the contemporaneous recovery of the waterproofing film for the production of energy.
US08550251B1	Diabetic two-fold medical case Disclosed is a combination medical case including multiple storage compartments, specifically for use by a diabetic patient. The medical case comprises a base compartment sized and shaped to contain a plurality of storage cubicles for the containment of prescription medicine bottles. The base compartment further contains a means for attachment of a planar-shaped equipment tray which may hold a glucose meter and a quantity of syringes or other supplies. A removable drawer, having a hinged top, rests on parallel supporting ledges integral to the inner walls of the base compartment. A shelf is sized and shaped to horizontally fit atop the removable drawer, within the confines of the base compartment. Receptacles within either the base compartment or the drawer may contain a pharmaceutical formulation comprising insulin. The medical case allows the patient to access needed medical and nutritional supplies and access equipment necessary to monitor and/or control his/her glucose level.
US08550250B2	Reclosable one time security trap seal blister package A package is disclosed comprising a reclosable blister attached to a paperboard card.
US08550249B2	Medicament dispenser and method A medicament dispenser can include a first side surface, a second side surface spaced from and substantially opposed to the first side surface, and a medicament packaging structure located between the first side surface and second side surface. A pivot structure can extend between the first side surface and the second side surface, and the medicament packaging structure can be rotatable about the pivot structure. Thus, the medicament packaging structure can be rotated from an enclosed state in which the medicament packaging structure is substantially enclosed by the first side surface and/or second side surface, to an exposed state in which the medicament packaging structure is substantially exposed from at least one of the first side surface and/or second side surface to provide user access to the medicament(s) stored in the medicament packaging structure. A lock structure can be located adjacent the first side surface and second side surface in order to selectively prevent movement and/or rotation of the medicament packaging structure. A method of using and making the medicament dispenser are also disclosed.
US08550247B2	Personalized medication holder A holder (100) for storing prescribed medication doses in a sealed cup (112) is provided with a sealing strip (117) a first portion (110) of which covers the mouth of the cup and a second portion (120) carries a picture of the face of the patient for whom the medication has been prescribed. The holder (100) is provided with a rim (113) extending outwardly from the mouth of the cup and with an extension flange (114) having a flat upper surface (111) which is coplanar with the upper surface of the rim (113). The sealing strip adheres to the coplanar surfaces of the rim (113) and the flange (114) and is provided with lines of severance (130 and 131) extending from a pull-tab (151) and along opposite sides of the cup. These lines of severance (130 and 131) are arranged within the confines of the path of the seal between the sealing strip (117) and the rim (113) so that air cannot leak through the lines of severance and into the cup when storing medication doses within the holder. The pull-tab enables the first portion (110) of the sealing strip (117) to be peeled back from covering the cup so that its contents can be accessed by inverting the cup over the palm of the hand of the user.
US08550241B2	Package for smoking articles A package for smoking articles comprising an inner shell (2) and an outer shell (1), the inner shell defining a space for smoking articles and the outer shell defining a cavity to receive the inner shell, the inner and outer shells being hingedly connected such that they pivot relative to each other from a closed position in which the inner shell is received in the outer shell and an open position in which the inner shell extends from the outer shell, wherein the outer shell includes a sidewall that overlaps a sidewall (13) of the inner shell when the inner and outer shells are in their closed position, a recess (56) being formed in the sidewall of one of the inner or outer shells and a tab (60) extending from a corresponding sidewall of the inner or outer shell such that, when the inner and outer shells are in their closed position, the tab locates in said recess.
US08550229B2	Food plate carrier A food plate carrier is carried on a conveyor line of a conveying system to transport food to the tables and seats in a restaurant. The food plate carrier includes a mounting platform having a plate resting portion for supporting a plate on which food is put, a cap member attached to the mounting platform so as to open and close with respect to the plate resting portion, to cover the plate resting portion of the mounting platform, and an open and close mechanism for allowing the cap member to close when the dish is rested on the plate resting portion and open when the dish is removed therefrom. The open and close mechanism comprises an actuator which is brought into abutment with the dish when the dish is on the plate resting portion, thereby being actuated to move relative to the plate resting portion.
US08550227B1	Auto-positioning sensors for coin counting devices Systems and methods for automatically positioning a coin sensor are disclosed herein. An auto-positioning coin sensor configured in accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure includes a coin sensor for determining a physical characteristic of an object and a moving device operably coupled to the coin sensor. The moving device can be configured to adjust the position of the coin sensor to determine the physical characteristic. Auto-positioning coin sensors in accordance with the present technology can include coin sensors that can be positioned based on a measurement of a dimension of an object.
US08550219B2	Rectangular, electromagnetically releasing dual-circuit spring-pressure brake Disclosed is an electromagnetically released spring pressure brake that is to be mounted on a machine wall or similar. Said brake comprises a uniform rectangular coil support (1) with two preferably oval, adjacent coils (7, 7.1), to which two separately movable rectangular armature disks are assigned. Said armature disks apply pressure to a joint rotor encompassing two friction linings that are mounted on each side when the coils (7, 7.1) are de-energized. The rotor is axially movable on an axially toothed hub. Two respective fastening screws (9) are used for guiding each of the armature disks parallel along the central longitudinal axis (13, 13.1) thereof, on the radially largest possible diameter of the rotor. A manual lever (10) featuring manual releasing bolts is provided for each armature disk. The inventive brake is simple and inexpensive and has two separate braking circuits, allowing the friction surfaces to be better utilized as the rotor has a greater diameter while the outer dimensions of the brake remain the same. Alternatively, the outer dimensions can be reduced if the rotor is not modified. In order to do so, a uniform or monolithic square coil support is provided that comprises two adjacent coils therein and two separate, independently movable armature disks on both sides of the central brake rotor (3).
US08550213B2	Scaffold element, arrangement and method of use The invention concerns a scaffold element adapted to be removably attachable to a bridge, the scaffold element comprising support member for supporting the scaffold element onto an upper surface of the bridge and a support structure which is secured to the support members and which extends to a distance outside the edge of the bridge and to a distance below the bridge. The invention is characterized in that the scaffold element further comprises a longitudinally adjustable support bar pivotally connected to the support structure and being supportable against a lower surface of the bridge and adjustment means for adjustably attaching a vertical mold wall onto the support structure of the scaffold element at a distance outside the edge of the bridge for forming a mold between the wall and the bridge. Also a scaffold arrangement and method of use are disclosed.
US08550212B2	Aerial work assembly using composite materials An aerial work platform assembly is provided, comprising a platform shaft retaining assembly; a mounting bracket connected to the platform shaft retaining assembly; and a platform connected to the mounting bracket; wherein the platform shaft retaining assembly, mounting bracket, and platform are constructed from the same or differing composite materials comprising a fabric-reinforced resin. Optionally, the fabric-reinforced resin includes a preform fabric having a conformable three-dimensional weave, and the resin is a dielectric resin selected from either epoxy, epoxy vinyl ester, vinyl ester, polyester, or phenolic.
US08550210B2	Resonant-type muffler A muffler comprising an inner pipe having one end connected to an upstream side of an exhaust pipe of an engine exhaust system, and another end connected to a downstream side of the exhaust pipe, an outer pipe covering at least part of the inner pipe, a hole being formed in a pipe wall of the inner pipe, a resonance chamber formed in a space between the inner pipe and the outer pipe, and a connection passage formed on an outer peripheral surface of the inner pipe along an axial direction of the inner pipe. The connection passage comprising a plurality of sections connected in series to form the connection passage as a single continuous passage.
US08550204B2	Exhaust device of a vehicle and a utility vehicle provided with the same An exhaust device of a vehicle, provided with a V-engine (5) having a front cylinder (52) and a rear cylinder (53), has a muffler (93) arranged in a rear part of the vehicle. A front cylinder exhaust pipe (91) is connected to a front surface of the front cylinder (52), and a rear cylinder exhaust pipe (92) is connected to a rear surface of the rear cylinder (53). A collecting pipe (94) is provided to collect the front cylinder exhaust pipe and the rear cylinder exhaust pipe. Also, a downstream exhaust pipe (95) extends from the collecting pipe to the muffler. The total length of the front cylinder exhaust pipe and the total length of the rear cylinder exhaust pipe are substantially the same.
US08550202B2	Rear portion structure of saddle-type vehicle To provide a rear portion structure of a saddle-type vehicle, which enables securement of a space for arranging vehicle-mounted components on the upper side of a drive chain at a position apart from a pivot shaft. A motorcycle includes a rear wheel swingably provided on a main member via a swing arm, a drive chain entrained about a driven sprocket provided on the rear wheel and a drive sprocket, and a seat frame. An air-exhaust pipe extends from an engine on a lower portion of the seat frame, an extending portion extends rearward of the vehicle from the seat frame, and a chain guide roller is mounted on the extending portion.
US08550195B1	Electric vehicle An electric vehicle having good range and power is achieved by providing a vehicle having a motor side assembly and a power side assembly. A battery starts or activates a starter. The battery is connected to a direct current motor to start off or begin the engine function by activating a rear alternator. The rear alternator has three phases by using three hot lines, one neutral line, and one ground line. One hot line and the neutral are connected or will go to a transformer to bring the voltage to the correct voltage. From the transformer, the feed goes to an inverter, so the alternating current voltage is changed to a direct current voltage. This structure will feed the direct current motor for a continuous feed.
US08550194B2	Electric tracklaying gear and use thereof for a self-propelled working machine The present invention relates to an electric tracklaying gear and the use thereof for a self-propelled working machine, preferably for a construction or earth-moving machine or a surface mining machine such as Surface Miner, which includes an endlessly circulating track chain which can be driven by a crawler drive that is arranged inside the path of circulation of the track chain. It is proposed to associate a cooling device with a closed fluid cooling circuit to the electric motor of the crawler drive arranged in the interior of the path of circulation of the track chain. Due to the high thermal capacity of a suitable cooling fluid such as oil or water-glycol mixture small volumetric flow rates in the fluid cooling circuit and hence small conduit cross-sections are sufficient. On the other hand, due to the closed formation of the fluid cooling circuit any dust input into the crawler drive and also any generation of dust by exhaust air can be avoided.
US08550193B1	Track driven sub-base assembly An assembly that is configured to receive a cab assembly is described. The assembly includes an undercarriage that is configured to hold hydraulic oil. One or more utility arms are coupled to the undercarriage frame for lifting and lowering attachments coupled to the one or more utility arms. A hydraulic pump is coupled to the undercarriage frame and is configured to operate the one or more utility arms.
US08550188B2	Downhole reamer asymmetric cutting structures A cutting structure for use with a reamer in enlarging a borehole in a subterranean formation includes a plurality of cutter blocks, radially extendable from a reamer body away from a central axis of the reamer body, each of the plurality of cutter blocks comprising at least one cutter blade thereon, wherein an angular spacing about the central axis of the reamer body between the at least one cutter blade on each of the plurality of cutter blocks is unequal.
US08550187B2	Drilling apparatus and method for working the ground The invention relates to a drilling apparatus for working the ground comprising a drill drive for driving a drill string in a rotating manner and a rotary feedthrough for passing a construction material from a construction material hose into the interior of the drill string, whereby the rotary feedthrough has a first line connection for the construction material hose and a second line connection, rotatable relative to the first line connection, for the drill string. In accordance with the invention provision is made for the rotary feedthrough to have a rotary device for actively rotating the second line connection relative to the first line connection. The invention also relates to a method for working the ground, which can be carried out, in particular, by means of a drilling apparatus according to the invention.
US08550186B2	Rotary steerable tool employing a timed connection A downhole steering tool includes distinct hydraulic and electronics modules deployed about a shaft. The hydraulics module includes a plurality of hydraulically actuated blades. The electronics module includes electronic circuitry configured to control blade actuation. The hydraulics and electronics modules are physically and electrically connected to one another via a timed connection.
US08550182B2	Electromagnetic energy assisted drilling system and method A drill bit, system and method for penetrating a material such as a mineral bearing rock or the like. The system comprises a drill bit comprising a cutting face comprising at least one cutting tool, an emitter of microwaves positioned behind the cutting face, wherein at least a portion of the microwaves are emitted in a direction away from the cutting face, and a reflector for directing the portion to the cutting face. In operation the emitted microwaves irradiate the material prior to the irradiated material being removed by the at least one cutting tool.
US08550180B2	Bearing of a breaking device tool The invention relates to a method for fitting a breaking device tool with a bearing, a breaking device and a tool bushing. The tool of the breaking device is fitted with a bearing with at least one bearing bushing manufactured of bearing material and arranged in a bearing space. There is a clearance fit between the bearing bushing and the bearing space, whereby the bearing bushing is insertable into the bearing space by manual force. During the use, compression stress pulses are given to the tool with a percussion device, whereby stress waves travel in the tool, which waves generate on the tool surface a movement in the direction of its perpendicular. This movement is transmitted to the bearing bushing, and it deforms the bearing bushing in the radial direction in such a way that the bearing bushing is pressed against the bearing space.
US08550178B2	Expandable isolation packer An expandable packer features a sealing element in an exterior recess that is straddled by projections or bumps. Upon expansion the bumps move out against the borehole wall as an anchor support. Optionally, the bumps may be covered with a sealing material and may be constructed to assist in their radial movement to the borehole wall as a result of expansion particularly if the mandrel is expanded in compression. The bumps are not necessarily expanded with the swage and their radial growth can be induced from longitudinal shrinkage resulting from radial expansion.
US08550176B2	Wellbore bypass tool and related methods of use Disclosed is a bypass tool for a tubing string a wellbore. The bypass tool has a tubular body with ports in the body wall to inject fluid into an annulus. An axially shiftable sleeve is mounted to control flow through the ports. Spring-loaded detents in the body engage openings in the sleeve. In operation, the bypass tool is run into the wellbore in the closed position with the sleeve closing the ports. When bypass flow is desired, an actuation ball is pumped down the wellbore and engages the detents, unlocking the sleeve to shift to where ports in the sleeve align with ports in the mandrel. To return the bypass tool to the closed position, a second ball of the same diameter as the first ball is pumped down the well to engage and depress the detents to allow the sleeve to shift to a closed position.
US08550166B2	Self-adjusting in-flow control device Devices, systems and related methods control a flow of a fluid between a wellbore tubular and a formation using a flow control device having a flow space formed therein; and a flow control element positioned in flow space. The flow control element may be configured to flex between a first radial position and a second radial position to in response to a pressure differential along the flow space.
US08550165B2	Well servicing fluid The present disclosure is directed to a method of servicing a well. The method comprises providing a well servicing fluid. The well servicing fluid is formulated with the following components comprising, at least one friction reducer chosen from polychloroprenes, vinyl acetate polymers, polyalkylene oxides polyalphaolefins; and a nonaqueous carrier fluid. The well servicing fluid is introduced into the well.
US08550158B1	Unified technology of full oil well and drainage zone rehabilitation The method for oil well rehabilitation by which the gaps inside the microfracture systems are widened by the influence of strong physics fields and the micro-breccia present in the microfractures are loosened or further broken up. The process allows the oil to flow freely towards the trunk of the oil well from the rehabilitated oil producing layers, where the oil was previously trapped in the microfracture systems.
US08550156B2	Swelling packer A swelling element packer is made with internal rings that are either split or scrolled. After the swelling element is built on a temporary mandrel a longitudinal seam of a variety of designs is cut through the element. This allows the rapid deployment of the element on the tubular that will be a part of a string and will serve as the final mandrel. The assembly is then magnetic pulse welded or crimped so as to urge the open ends of the rings to move toward each other and become secured to each other and further opening the possibility of attaching parts on the ring itself to the underlying tubular by displacing or otherwise removing the swelling material that was between the ring and the final mandrel when the magnetic pulse process began. The rings can be embedded wholly within the element or can extend beyond the opposed ends.
US08550153B2	Heat exchanger and method of operating the same An evaporative heat exchanger including a plurality of parallel flow passages extending through the heat exchanger and together defining a first fluid flow path, and a plurality of substantially parallel stacked plates interleaved with the parallel flow passages. Each plate can have first, second, and third sets of flow channels, a first collection manifold adjacent to an end of the plate and connecting the first and second passes, and a second collection manifold. The second collection manifold can intersect the second set of flow channels and at least some of the third set of flow channels. The plate separates the first set of flow channels from the second collection manifold.
US08550146B2	Valve device for gas drainage of metal mold for die-casting and metal mold for die-casting A valve device has a main body in which an exhaust hole configuring a part of the gas drainage path is formed; a valve element capable of opening and closing the exhaust hole; a cylinder housing a piston coupled to the valve element; and an electromagnetic selector valve for selectively switching a supply route of a driving fluid supplied from a fluid supply source of a die-casting machine to the cylinder either to a front chamber of the cylinder or to a rear chamber of the cylinder. The main body includes a front face configuring a part of a parting face and a fitting portion that tightly adheres to a wall face of a housing hole. The electromagnetic selector valve is positioned on a rear side of the main body, and positioned inwardly of a contour line of the man body formed by the fitting portion.
US08550145B2	Method of manufacturing a metal matrix composite A method of forming a metal matrix composite (MMC),such as a brake drum, by impregnating a preform, which is formed of ceramic particles and ceramic fibers, with a support element, such as a metal. The MMC has a wear surface defined by both the preform and the support element.
US08550139B2	Label separation and application apparatus and method The invention which is the subject of this application is apparatus and a method for the application of labels to articles-, via adhesive or other mechanical location means. The labels are provided in a label supply (2) with respective labels (8) defined by a line of weakening (6) formed by slits (12) or perforations and the line of weakening includes at least one aperture (12) provided for engagement by a tool (12) at the time when the line of weakening is required to be broken to separate the leading label and allow the same to be applied to the article.
US08550137B2	Tire for self-inflating tire system A tire for a self-inflating tire system includes an annular air tube-receiving groove formed within a tire carcass wall at a prescribed radial location. The groove has an access opening, a primary internal groove chamber dimensioned and profiled for close receipt of an annular air-pump tube. A secondary expansion chamber of the groove communicates with the internal groove chamber for operationally receiving a flattened air-pump tube extended portion during tire operation. A passageway is located at a prescribed outlet location along the annular air tube-receiving groove, the passageway extending from the groove to an axially inward terminal end within the tire carcass wall separated from a tire inner liner by a removable wall partition of reduced sectional thickness.
US08550134B2	Low aspect ratio super single truck tire with a split breaker The present invention is directed to a pneumatic tire 1, in particular a low aspect ratio super single truck tire 1. In accordance with the invention, the tire has a crown reinforcing structure with a first breaker 9 between a carcass ply 3 and a tread 5, as well as four further breakers 11, 13, 15, 17 comprising at least one pair of working breakers between the first breaker 9 and the tread 5, wherein the first breaker 9 is a split breaker comprising two circumferential strips 9 essentially adjacent to the shoulders of the tire, each strip having an axial width comprised between 50% and 70% of the half tread width.
US08550131B1	Liquid dispensing device, system and method A liquid dispensing device, system and method are disclosed. The liquid dispensing device includes a one-way liquid metering device, comprising a bellows, an inlet valve, and an outlet valve; and a housing, comprising a cavity. The outlet valve is recessed within the cavity and liquid is dispensed from the one-way metering device into the cavity when a proximal portion of a receptacle is inserted into the cavity. Liquid within the bellows is dispensed from the outlet valve when the bellows is compressed, and liquid is drawn into the bellows through the inlet valve when the bellows returns to an expanded state. The system can include a receptacle with a neck extending from a shoulder at the proximal end of the receptacle. The shoulder engages with the at least one surface.
US08550129B2	Vapor-recovery-activated auto-shutoff nozzle, mechanism and system A vapor-recovery-activated auto-shutoff nozzle comprises a manually operable trigger that permits selective operation of a normally closed valve between a valve-closed configuration and a valve-open configuration. Linkage arms connect the trigger and the valve, and are re-configurable between an enabled configuration and a disabled configuration. In the enabled configuration, the trigger and the valve are operatively connected such that the rest position of the trigger corresponds to the valve being closed, and the in-use position of the manually operable trigger corresponds to the valve being open. In the disabled configuration, the manually operable trigger is precluded from controlling the valve. A deactivation mechanism is for re-configuring the linkage means from the enabled configuration to the disabled configuration, in response to a condition of the fluid in a vapor recovery conduit of the nozzle, thereby precluding the valve from being controlled until the linkage arms are reset to the enabled configuration.
US08550128B2	Fluid flow control valve with upper bleed port and system A refilling system for use in refilling a container with a fluid from a fluid source. The container having air space above a fluid space. The fluid having a fluid level within the container. The refilling system comprising a fluid flow control valve connected via a bleed line to a fluid level sensor.
US08550124B2	Woven fabric with a color glittering effect A woven fabric with a color glitter effect is woven from plurality A directional yarn sets and B directional yarn sets perpendicular the A directional yarns, wherein each A directional yarn set includes at least one yarn, a shrinkage of which is more than 3%, and the at least one yarn at least contains two successive organizing points for a downward arrangement when it is woven, such that each B directional yarn set is compressed to form a convex structure and has at least two yarns with different colors, a central level position of one of the at least two yarns of a peak portion of the convex structure, at which the B directional yarn set is located, is higher than a top level position of a lowest yarn of a valley portion of a concave structure, at which the B directional yarn set is located.
US08550123B2	Device for transferring a band-shaped weft material For transferring a preferably band-shaped weft material from a feed unit to an insertion element of a weaving machine, a free end of the weft material is clamped in a clamping device, the free end is transferred to the insertion element, and then the clamping device is opened to release the weft material, which is then inserted by the insertion element. The clamping device is conveyed by a drive essentially in the direction of motion of the insertion element between at least two different operating positions.
US08550119B2	Microfabricated elastomeric valve and pump systems A method of fabricating an elastomeric structure, comprising: forming a first elastomeric layer on top of a first micromachined mold, the first micromachined mold having a first raised protrusion which forms a first recess extending along a bottom surface of the first elastomeric layer; forming a second elastomeric layer on top of a second micromachined mold, the second micromachined mold having a second raised protrusion which forms a second recess extending along a bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer; bonding the bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer onto a top surface of the first elastomeric layer such that a control channel forms in the second recess between the first and second elastomeric layers; and positioning the first elastomeric layer on top of a planar substrate such that a flow channel forms in the first recess between the first elastomeric layer and the planar substrate.
US08550117B2	Seal assembly for a fluid pressure control device A seal assembly for a fluid pressure control device includes a guide element having a sealing surface and a first guide surface. A throttling element assembly includes a throttling element positionable within a fluid flow path, the assembly defines a mating surface adapted to seal with the sealing surface, and a second guide surface sized to slidingly engage the first guide surface. A relief void is formed in at least one of the guide element and the throttling element assembly adjacent the first and second guide surfaces to receive loose solid material, to thereby prevent disruption of the seal formed between the sealing surface and the mating surface.
US08550114B2	Time remaining display assembly A time remaining display assembly for indicating the time remaining in a pressurized gas tank, adapted to be connected to a regulator having a flow rate adjuster for selecting one of a plurality of flow rate settings comprising an assembly coupled to the flow rate adjuster, the assembly having one or more time scales imprinted thereon, each time scale corresponding to one of the flow rate settings, each time scale indicating the time remaining in the tank as a function of gas pressure in the tank.
US08550108B2	Gas pressure control valve A gas pressure control valve having a valve body with a gas inlet and a gas outlet is described. An inner cap is provided bounding in part a chamber within the valve body in communication with the gas inlet. The valve body contains a spring loaded piston comprising a piston head and a piston rod. The piston rod includes a conduit providing communication between the chamber bounded in part by the inner cap and a chamber adjacent the piston head and the gas outlet. The piston is operable to move between a closed configuration in which the piston rod prevents communication between the gas inlet and the chamber bounded in part by the inner cap and an open configuration in which the piston rod permits communication between the gas inlet and the chamber bounded in part by the inner cap. The piston head is in a sealing engagement with the valve body via a first seal and the piston rod is in a sealing engagement with the inner cap via a second seal contained within the chamber bounded in part by the inner cap, the second seal being held in a fixed position within the chamber.
US08550107B2	Ventilation device for the fuel tank of a vehicle A ventilation device includes a ventilation opening closable by a float in a valve housing interior, an inflow opening in an upper portion, at least one outflow opening in a lower portion that can be closed by a sealing element of a shut-off valve. A storage container is connected through a conduit to the valve housing interior so that fuel can flow from the housing interior into the storage container.
US08550106B2	Pressure-relief valve of a housing for an electrical/electronic unit The invention relates to a pressure-relief valve of a housing for an electrical/electronic unit, particularly for a housing of a control unit of a motor vehicle, comprising a pressure equalization element, which comprises a membrane. It is provided that at least one hydrophobic layer (22) is located on the membrane (21). The invention further relates to a housing (1) for an electrical/electronic unit (2), particularly of a control unit (4) of a motor vehicle, comprising such a pressure-relief valve (11).
US08550105B2	Valve system of high pressure tank for vehicle A valve system includes a fusible plug valve that functions as a fusible plug valve and as a manual valve. When functioning as a fusible plug valve, the fusible plug valve opens at a high temperature to release gas from a high pressure tank to outside. When functioning as a manual valve, the fusible plug valve is opened manually to release the gas from the high pressure tank to the outside.
US08550097B2	Dental floss holder A dental floss gripper has a ring-shaped base element and a clamp that is pivotally coupled to the ring for movement between open and closed positions. In the closed position, the clamp grips a length of dental floss supported on the external surface of the ring. The clamp and the ring are configured so that the clamp snap-fits to the base element and securely holds the dental floss in use.
US08550094B2	Pubic patches A pubic patch is provided to apply to the public area of a woman, particularly the mons pubis (Pubic Mound) area of the pelvic region. The pubic patch includes an adhesive base with a front side and a back side with decorative material attached to the front side, and the back side attached to human body. The pubic patch may further comprise fragrances and/or illuminating devices. The decorative material may be hairs attached to supporting sheet or LED material. Further, a products kit is provided which contains a plurality of pubic patches. The product kit may include an instruction booklet. A method of using the pubic patch is also provided comprises the steps of selecting a pubic patch and applying the pubic patch to the human surface in the pubic area.
US08550092B2	Filter A filter for a cigarette comprises a porous filter rod (3) a material sheet (2) wrapped around the filter rod and a cellulose acetate thread (4) formed from substantially uncrimped cellulose acetate filaments. The cellulose acetate thread is positioned within the filter rod and extends along the central axis of the filter rod.
US08550090B2	Apparatus and process for delivering a silicone prosthesis into a surgical pocket A tapered sleeve is provided that includes a lubricating coating on an inner surface. An implant (e.g., a pre-filled silicon breast implant) is introduced into a large end of the sleeve and extruded into a surgical pocket of minimal access incision size through a small-sized end of the apparatus.
US08550088B1	Cervical stabilization device A system and method for stabilizing an incontinent cervix during pregnancy are described. A system may include a nesting portion designed to surround the cervix without applying pressure to the cervix, while supporting the uterus in opposition to the weight of the developing fetus to prevent untimely effacement and dilatation of the cervix; thereby reducing the risk of premature birth and its consequence.
US08550087B2	Implant delivery device with expanding tip Devices and methods are disclosed for the delivery of an implant into small bodily spaces. The delivery devices include an expandable portion configured for placement within such bodily spaces and subsequent expansion to facilitate the delivery of the implant.
US08550083B2	Cushion for patient interface A cushion for a patient interface that delivers breathable gas to a patient includes a base wall structured to be connected to a frame, an underlying support cushion extending away from the base wall towards the patient's face in use, and a membrane provided to substantially cover at least a portion of the underlying cushion. The membrane is adapted to form a continuous seal on the patient's face. The underlying cushion has a spring-like connection with the base wall. The underlying cushion and/or base wall define a spring constant that varies along a length of the seal.
US08550082B2	Cushion for patient interface A cushion for a patient interface that delivers breathable gas to a patient includes a base wall structured to be connected to a frame, an underlying support cushion extending away from the base wall towards the patient's face in use, and a membrane provided to substantially cover at least a portion of the underlying cushion. The membrane is adapted to form a continuous seal on the patient's face. The underlying cushion has a spring-like connection with the base wall. The underlying cushion and/or base wall define a spring constant that varies along a length of the seal.
US08550080B2	Cushion for a patient interface A respiratory mask is provided having cushion and a shell wherein the cushion has a frustum portion that extends towards the face of the user to provide a larger more stable and comfortable interface with a user which is better able to conform to the complex geometry of the user's face.
US08550079B2	Respiratory nasal filter A respiratory nasal filter including an outer ring having concentric outer periphery and inner periphery sized to the periphery of a user's nasal orifice, a filter layer having an outer periphery larger than the inner periphery of the outer ring, but smaller than the outer periphery of the outer ring and an adhesive applied to said outer ring for bonding the filter layer concentrically to the outer ring and for bonding the outer ring to the columella, a nasal sill, an alar sidewall and the facet of the user's nose.
US08550076B2	Vacuum attachment and breathing circuit apparatus An ambient or room air vacuum attachment or nozzle is provided proximal to the connection between a breathing circuit and the protruding inlet port of a respiratory face mask, and a tubular passageway is sealingly connected between the vacuum attachment or nozzle and a source of vacuum. By virtue of such structure, any gas escaping from the periphery of the respiratory face mask through accident or otherwise is immediately and automatically “vacuumed-up” by the proximally located vacuum attachment or nozzle and evacuated from the surrounding room environment through the vacuum source to which the ambient air vacuum nozzle and tubular passageway are connected.
US08550066B2	High efficiency furnace/air handler blower housing with a side wall having an exponentially increasing expansion angle An air distribution blower housing for an air handler such as a residential furnace is designed with a volute-shaped outer wall that has an exponentially increasing expansion angle in the direction of air flow through the blower housing for at least a portion of the volute-shaped outer wall length. This results in the blower housing having an enlarged air outlet opening that slows down and spreads out the air flow from the blower housing over a greater area of the furnace heat exchanger. The blower housing thereby enables less air pressure drop through the heat exchanger, which increases the efficiency of the blower motor operation. The design of the blower housing also efficiently turns the velocity head of the air flow through the housing to usable static air pressure at the housing air outlet.
US08550063B2	Soccer ball delivery system and method A system for delivering objects, such as soccer balls, the system including a delivery device and a methodology for training individuals that can be used with the delivery device, the delivery device including an accelerator that accepts, accelerates, and launches the balls with motion characteristics, and a control system having an electronic controller structured to store and execute a training program that includes ball service specifications and player service variables, ball speed and spin control inputs, and random selection of values within a range of values of the player service variables that include a starting position of the player relative to the device, a direction of motion of the player relative to the device, an identification of at least one location on the player's body to touch the ball, a time interval to wait before delivering the ball, and an action for the user to take with the ball.
US08550061B2	Toy gun A panel that conceals a gas cartridge attached to a toy gun is easily attached and detached without impairing the appearance of the toy gun. The gas cartridge is housed in a housing space formed in a cartridge housing portion and supplies compressed gas for firing a bullet. An introduction port for introducing the gas cartridge is provided in a first face of the cartridge housing portion. A working portion is provided in the cartridge housing portion and is moved in a direction along the first face. The panel is detachably attached to the cartridge housing portion and covers the introduction port. A protruded portion is extended from the lid portion of the panel. The protruded portion is provided with an inclined portion. The working portion is brought into slide contact with the inclined portion and moves the panel.
US08550055B2	Fuel management systems and methods for variable displacement engines A control system includes an engine mode transition module that initiates a deactivated mode to deactivate at least one cylinder. A scheduling module schedules a command to disable a spark plug at least one engine cycle after a command to disable a fuel injector for the at least one cylinder.
US08550053B2	Exhaust flap housing as well as an exhaust flap means An exhaust flap housing in which an exhaust flap can be disposed comprises at least one stop element for defining end positions of the pivotable exhaust flap. To simplify the production, the stop element is preferably produced by remodeling and thus forms part of the exhaust flap housing.
US08550050B2	Carburetor and general purpose engine A carburetor provided on an intake pipe is disclosed. The carburetor includes a rotary cock attached to a fuel chamber. The cock is used for opening and closing fuel channels and drain channels. The cock has a rotational axis inclined relative to the central axis of the intake pipe.
US08550047B2	Valve control apparatus for internal combustion engine A valve control synchronizing apparatus for an internal combustion engine for controlling opening and closing operations of an engine valve includes a synchronizing pin assembly selectively transferring pivoting movement from one or both of first and second adjacent rocker arms to a central rocker arm. The synchronizing pin assembly is received in a bore defined through the central rocker arm and at least partially into each of the first and second rocker arms. The synchronizing pin assembly bridges between the first rocker arm and the central rocker arm to transfer pivoting movement of the first rocker arm to the central rocker arm and bridges between the second rocker arm and the central rocker arm to transfer pivoting movement from the second rocker arm to the central rocker arm.
US08550044B2	Air spring system for an internal combustion engine An internal combustion engine has at least one intake valve and at least one exhaust valve. A first spring biases the at least one intake valve to a closed position. A second spring biases the at least one exhaust valve to a closed position. At least one of the first and second springs is an air spring. An air compressor fluidly communicates with the air spring to supply air to the air spring. The air compressor is operatively connected to a rotating shaft of the engine to be selectively driven thereby. A motor is operatively connected to the air compressor to selectively drive the air compressor. A method of supplying air to the air spring of the above engine is also disclosed. A method of supplying air to an air spring of an engine having both a mechanical and an electrical air compressor is also disclosed.
US08550043B2	Two-stroke engine and motorized implement equipped with the two-stroke engine An exhaust port and an intake port are formed across a crankshaft with a flywheel provided at one end when viewed in a direction of an axis of a cylinder at a two-stroke engine. A pair of scavenging ports is then formed between the exhaust port and the intake port. Scavenging path covers are fitted to a cylinder block of the two-stroke engine and constitute part of scavenging paths that connect the scavenging ports and a crank chamber. The scavenging path cover close to the flywheel is positioned between an axis of the crankshaft and an exhaust path connected to the exhaust port or an intake path connected to the intake port.
US08550039B2	Pump assembly and method of manufacturing same A method of manufacturing a pump assembly includes sand casting a pump housing with a cavity and die casting an impeller that includes pump blades and a first portion of a shroud. The pump housing may be sand cast as a one-piece component and the impeller may be die cast as another one-piece component. A pump cover is provided with a second portion of the shroud. The pump cover is inserted into the cavity so that the second portion of the shroud is adjacent to the first portion of the shroud, providing a substantially continuous surface defining flow channels through the impeller. A pump assembly manufactured according to the method is also provided.
US08550037B2	Ignition control for reformate engine During operation of a spark ignition engine, an ignition system produces an output (e.g., breakdown voltage, peak secondary coil current, and spark duration) used to combust a charge (e.g., mixture of air and fuel) in an engine cylinder. Ignition output is important to consider in engines including a second fuel with high ignitability, for example in engines with a fuel reformer system. Example methods, devices and systems are included for adjusting ignition output.
US08550032B2	Mask assembly for thin film deposition of flat panel display A described technology relates generally to a thin-film deposition mask assembly of a flat panel display for correcting form distortion caused by tension of a division mask. The thin-film deposition mask assembly includes: a frame for forming a penetrated opening; a first change compensating member and a second change compensating member disposed across the opening, fixed to a free end member formed by partially cutting the frame from the opening, and arranged as a pair; and a plurality of division masks being disposed to cross the first change compensating member and the second change compensating member on top sides of the first change compensating member and the second change compensating member.
US08550026B2	Conically graduated display instrument for a motor vehicle The invention relates to a pointer instrument comprising a graduated disk, a contour element which is arranged in the edge region of the disk and has a visible surface, and a pointer. The invention also relates to a method for producing a pointer instrument.
US08550021B2	Cap-frame setting frame A cap-frame setting frame to which a cap frame holding a cap with a part on which embroidery is sewn by an embroidery sewing machine is detachably attached. The cap-frame setting frame includes a base frame having a distal end and a proximal end and including a fixing mechanism which is located at the proximal end side and is to be fixed to a predetermined work table, a rotating frame located at the distal end side of the base frame and having a cylindrical mount portion to which the cap frame is mounted so as to be positioned, a disc-shaped support secured to the base frame and configured to rotatably support the rotating frame, and a fitting portion located on the base frame to be fitted with an outer periphery of the disc-shaped support, thereby being rotatably supported on the base frame.
US08550005B1	Non-lethal delivery canister, threat mitigation system, and methods for mitigating bomber and perpetrator threats Embodiments of a non-lethal delivery canister, a bomber/perpetrator threat-mitigation system, and methods of mitigating bomber and perpetrator threats are generally described herein. In some embodiments, the non-lethal delivery canister may include a shell, a plastic-fabric liner within the shell to hold the shell together, and an entrapment device within the liner. The shell may be configured to break away and disintegrate after launch and prior to target impact to help ensure non-lethality. In some embodiments, the delivery canister may include an exhaust-gas generator (EGG) to generate a high-pressure gas, and an exhaust-gas director within the liner to direct the high-pressure gas generated by the EGG into the liner cause the entrapment device to expel.
US08550000B2	Printing plate unloading apparatus and method Apparatus for removing printing plates (8) having leading and trailing edges located in a lock-up slot in a plate cylinder (2) of a rotary printing press, from said plate cylinder (2) is disclosed. The apparatus comprises means for extracting the trailing edge from a lock-up slot which is also operable to partially extract the leading edge from a lock up slot. The apparatus further includes an extraction member for engaging, as the printing cylinder rotates, a portion of the leading edge (8a) of the printing plate protruding from the lock up slot (9) following its partial extraction, to complete the removal of the printing plates from the printing cylinder and leave the removed plates, hanging by their leading edge (8a), on the extraction member. A method of loading printing plates onto a plate cylinder (2) is also disclosed.
US08549993B2	Cooking device with slidable drawer A food cooking device generally comprises two sections: a cooking section and a liquid removal section. The cooking section houses and/or heats liquid for cooking the food, and the liquid removal section is operable to reduce the liquid content of the food. The cooking device may further comprise a centrifugal liquid removal device locatable within the liquid removal section. The cooking device comprises a slidable drawer for moving the centrifugal liquid removal device into and out of a housing. A frame is disposed within the slidable drawer, and the frame houses the centrifugal liquid removal device. A translational motor moves the food from the cooking section to the liquid removal section when the slidable drawer positions the centrifugal liquid device in the housing. The cooking device further comprises a hinged door that is in a closed position when the centrifugal liquid removal device is in the housing.
US08549989B2	Piston apparatus for engine A piston apparatus for an engine includes a piston pin that is inserted in a smaller end portion of a connecting rod and having a cross-section changing portion where a cross section changes at a portion of the piston pin, and a fixing member that engages the connecting rod and a piston through the cross-section changing portion so as to restrain longitudinal movement of the piston pin with respect to the connecting rod.
US08549988B2	Mounting arrangement for the piston of a reciprocating hermetic compressor A mounting arrangement for the piston of a reciprocating hermetic compressor, comprising: a cylinder (1), inside which is defined a compression chamber (C); and a piston (10) provided with a pair of radial holes (11), each lodging and retaining one end of a pin (20), to which is coupled a driving mechanism of the compressor to reciprocate the piston (10) inside the cylinder (1), said radial holes (11) being completely sealed in relation to the radial gaps (15) of the bearing surfaces (10a, 10b) of the piston (10), so that both radial gaps (15) operate as means for restraining the leakage of refrigerant gas outwardly and inwardly in relation to the compression chamber (C).
US08549987B2	Piston seal guide bearing A priming piston reciprocating pump 10 has piston guide 14 which encircles piston 16 and is provided a bearing member 22 in the inner diameter of the upper end of the guide 14. The bearing 22 is formed of 25% carbon-filled PTFE and may be fitted without tools into the aforementioned ID. Such a bearing 22 allows a negligible clearance to be utilized between the bearing 22 and the piston 16.
US08549985B2	Wabble plate type variable displacement compressor A compressor reciprocates pistons via a wabble plate wabbled while being prevented from rotating. A wabble plate rotation preventing mechanism is constructed as a mechanism comprising an inner ring axially movable relative to a main shaft, an outer ring connected to the wobble plate, a plurality of balls placed between guide grooves of the inner and outer rings and performing power transmission, and a sleeve axially movably engaged with the inner ring, provided so as to be axially movable together with the inner ring, and functioning as a central member for wabbling of the wabble plate. A difference in shape is provided between the axial cross-sectional profile of a substantially concave spherical surface formed in the inner periphery of the outer ring and the axial cross-sectional profile of a substantially convex spherical surface formed on the outer periphery of the sleeve such that the closer to the axial opposite ends of the contact portion between both the surfaces the position is, the greater the clearance between the surfaces becomes. Seizure and abrasion in sliding sections in the wabble plate rotation preventing mechanism using a specified constant velocity universal joint are suppressed, and a wabble plate type variable displacement compressor exhibiting excellent durability and silent performance can be provided.
US08549977B2	Apparatus for opening and closing breech block and cannon having the same An apparatus for opening and closing a breech block includes a cam follower, a housing, a first plunger, a rotation unit, a pressurizing unit, an open cam, a first elastic member, and a second plunger. In the present invention, in a state that the open cam is out of the range of a moving path of the cam follower so as to restrict rotation of the cam follower, the second plunger is inserted into the housing so as to support the pressurizing unit. This may allow a closed state of the breech block to be maintained after firing. Furthermore, in the present invention, a closed mode of the breech block may be converted into an open mode, through simple manipulations, e.g., by rotating the rotation unit, i.e., by moving the pressurizing unit.
US08549976B2	Arrangement for storing and launching payloads An arrangement for storing and launching payloads. An elongate body includes at least one launch opening. The elongate body is configured to store the payloads in compartments. The compartments include openings. The arrangement is configured to be mounted on a vehicle with a longitudinal direction of the elongate body essentially coinciding with a direction of motion of the vehicle. The elongate body includes deflectors configured to act on an air stream and to permanently create an air covering layer across and over the compartment openings during use.
US08549974B2	Apparatus for conditioning plastic containers for putting the same into use An apparatus for conditioning plastic containers for putting them into use, in particular ampoules (13), formed into container blocks (11) side by side next to separating lines (17) at which the containers (13) can be separated from one another for use. A pre-separating station (13) is provided, into which the container blocks (11) can be moved in conveying steps and in which a swinging blade (27) is provided for each of the separating lines (17). The swinging blades (27) are coupled to a common drive (31, 33) for a cutting stroke to produce pre-separating incisions at the separating lines (17) such the cutting strokes of each swinging blade (27) takes place in a sequence offset in time in relation to the cutting strokes of other cutting blades (27).
US08549972B2	Flat paper punch A punch for punching a sheet of material is provided. The punch has a body with a fissure, a pivot shaft defining a pivot point and a lever retainer secured to said body. The lever is pivotably mounted about the pivot point and has an open position and a closed position. A block is positionable between the lever and the body. The body has longitudinal support ridges and side ridges with the pivot point being positioned in substantially the same plane as the longitudinal support ridge so that when the punch is closed, the side ridges of the lever pass outside of the support ridges of the body in a nesting relationship, allowing the punch to form a flat profile when closed.
US08549971B2	Laminate flooring saw A laminate flooring saw system which can be used for both rip cuts and miter cuts in one embodiment includes a fence, a base including a first locking member configured to cooperate with the fence to lock the fence along a first fence axis, a second locking member configured to cooperate with the fence to lock the fence along a second fence axis, the second fence axis perpendicular to the first fence axis, and a support arm system positioned above the base for supporting a power tool.
US08549970B2	Power saw A power saw assembly including a base plate and having a powered blade assembly including a saw blade attached to the upper surface of the base plate. The powered blade assembly has at least one operating position for cutting material wherein the saw blade extends at least partially through a slot in said base plate. The power saw assembly further includes a fence assembly swivelable about a substantially vertical axis from a first position allowing the saw blade to cut through a piece of material at an angle of 90 degrees with respect to the length of the material, to other positions allowing the saw blade to cut through the material at angles other than 90 degrees with respect to the length of the material. The fence assembly is securable to the base plate at any position by clamping the fence assembly against the upper and lower surfaces of the base plate.
US08549968B2	Tow cutting apparatus A cutting apparatus to cut a tow includes a tow support, a first blade, and a tow support deflector. The tow support deflector is disposed in cooperative alignment with the first blade to exert a deflecting force upon the tow support. The deflecting force substantially preventing the first blade from striking the tow support.
US08549964B2	Machine tool for turning operations A multi-axis turning center for turning operations includes a machine body, a tool rest means for holding a tool, a first headstock for holding a workpiece, and a second headstock disposed in confronting relation to the first headstock, for holding a workpiece. The second headstock has a front chuck and a rear chuck for gripping respective workpieces. The second headstock performs a workpiece changing function by swiveling about a central axis. The multi-axis turning center is capable of automatically changing the workpieces by itself while it is carrying out a machining process, without the need for a workpiece changer. The multi-axis turning center does not need to stop its machining process for changing workpieces, resulting in an increase in the utilization ratio thereof.
US08549963B2	Torque socket The present invention relates to a torque socket, which comprises a shaft rod and a shaft cylinder. Two ends of the shaft rod are respectively axially formed with an insertion tenon and a core shaft having at least a cut groove transversally on a surface. Two axial ends of the shaft cylinder are respectively formed with a shaft slot and a sleeve slot, wherein the shaft slot allows the core shaft to be inserted therein and is formed with a buckle part corresponding to the location of the flange part; the interior of the shaft slot is radially and protrudingly formed with a friction segment for tightening the core shaft, thereby forming a preset torque value between the core shaft and the shaft slot. When the socket is used to fasten a connection unit, if the preset torque of the socket is exceeded, an idle rotation state is formed.
US08549962B2	Screw drive design A drive design for a fastening element in-stalled using screws, in particular, a screw or a nut, comprises drive surfaces (13) disposed at least approximately in radial planes and transition surfaces (15) disposed between said drive surfaces. In one embodiment of the outside of the surfaces, the surfaces form a saw shape, In this way, when rotation is in one direction in which a tool en-gages with the drive surfaces (13), torque-application results, whereas in the opposite rotational direction a force component is produced that acts on the tool without engaging with the screw drive design. A tool is designed to be complementary to the screw drive design. The screw drive design can be an inner shaping as well an outer shaping. The same applies for a nut. This drive design is intended for designing a screw connector in such a way that it can be tightened once, but cannot be loosened any longer.
US08549957B2	Rotation angle detecting apparatus A rotation angle detecting apparatus to detect a rotation angle of a rotating member, including a housing, the rotating member being disposed so as to be rotatable relative to the housing; a fixing member to fix a magnet to the rotating member; and a sensor, fixed to the housing, to detect a rotation angle of the magnet, the rotating member including an abutting part with which the magnet abuts in a direction of a rotation axis of the rotating member, and a supporting part that faces the abutting part with the magnet interposed therebetween to support the fixing member located between the magnet and the supporting part, and the fixing member presses the magnet against the abutting part by coming into contact with the supporting part and the magnet without allowing a section contacting the supporting part and a section contacting the magnet to overlap with each other.
US08549955B2	Bicycle control device A bicycle control device is basically provided with a base member, a shift control unit, a non-shift operating lever, a first shift operating lever and a second shift operating lever. The shift control unit is mounted to the base member. The non-shift operating lever is movably coupled relative to the base member. The first and second shift operating levers are operatively coupled to the shift control unit. The second shift operating lever is a separate member from the first shift operating lever. The first and second shift operating levers are configured and arranged relative to each other such that the second shift operating lever is moved by the first shift operating lever when the first shift operating lever is operated.
US08549951B2	Joint mechanism for robot A joint mechanism is for a robot. The joint mechanism includes a base; a first drive device mounted on the base including a first drive shaft; a second drive device including a second drive shaft; a joint body defining a plurality of toothed grooves and a guiding groove. A sliding board mounted on first drive shaft, the sliding board slidably located in the guiding groove to guide the joint body to swing relative to the base. A gear mounted on the second drive shaft, the gear meshes with the toothed grooves; a limiting assembly for rotatably mounting the joint body on the base. When the first drive device is started, the first drive shaft is rotated to drive the joint body rotating around the first drive shaft; when the second drive device is started, the second drive shaft is rotated to drive the gear rotating so the joint body swings relative to the base.
US08549950B2	Power supply unit for robot and robot having the same A power supply unit for robots and a robot having the same. The power supply unit for robots supplies power to actuators installed within an arm, and includes a housing provided with at least two lines of bus bars in an inner reception space; and at least one power unit to branch off power transmitted to the bus bars through power supply lines.
US08549949B2	Backlash adjustment mechanism and industrial robot using the same A backlash adjustment mechanism includes a first cylindrical gear fixed in an axial position, a second cylindrical gear moveable along the axis and meshed with the first cylindrical gear, and an elastic member biasing the second cylindrical gear towards the first cylindrical gear. The addendum modification coefficients in the first and second cylindrical gears are linearly changed along their axes, respectively, an end of the first cylindrical gear with higher addendum modification coefficient meshes with an end of the second cylindrical gear with correspondingly lower addendum modification coefficient, and an end of the first cylindrical gear with lower addendum modification coefficient meshes with an end of the second cylindrical gear with correspondingly higher addendum modification coefficient.
US08549946B2	Elastic couple barring apparatus An elastic couple barring apparatus (i.e., an elastic couple rotor turning gear) is a special tool to drive a rotor by elastic couple for adjusting a shafting center of a vertical hydroelectric generating set and other rotating devices. The elastic couple rotor turning gear is characterized in that an elastic support is mounted on a frame of the driven device, a casing being connected to the elastic support, a casing cover being firmly fixed on the casing, a speed reducer and an electric motor being installed on the cover, an output shaft of the speed reducer extending into the casing under the casing cover, the output shaft having a pinion gear mounted thereon and meshed with a gear body of a bull gear positioned in the casing, the bull gear being connected to a shaft coupling through parallel keys via a key seat or an upright post, and the shaft coupling being fixed on a rotor of the driven device. The advantages of the invention is that the structure is more reasonable, the concentricity may be adjusted more conveniently, the elastic connection makes operation easy and vibration small, deformation caused by suspending arms is eliminated, and operation's accuracy and precision are improved because the gears may be meshed and operated smoothly.
US08549944B2	Multi-stage transmission A multi-stage transmission includes both a drive and a driven gear shaft. A plurality of driven gears are mounted on the driven gear shaft for engagement and disengagement from the driven gear shaft individually by an engaging member that is changed over to make a gear shift. The engaging member includes swing pawl members swingably supported by pivot pins on the driven shaft. End parts of the swing pawl members, extending from the pivot pins are engaging claw parts engageable with engaging surfaces of engaging projections formed on the inner circumferential surfaces of the driven gears. The other end parts of the swing pawl members are acted upon to be pushed up by pin members which are operated to be advanced and retracted by gear shifting operation. The pin members operate to release engagement of the engaging claw parts with the engaging projections of the driven gears.
US08549943B2	Transmission with rear torque converter A transmission includes a main shaft, a first input shaft, a second input shaft, and a first clutch to drivingly couple the main shaft and the first input shaft. A second clutch drivingly couples the main shaft and the second input shaft. A torque converter is selectively driven by one of the first input shaft and a first speed gear set. The first speed gear set is driven by the other of the first input shaft and the torque converter. A second speed gear set is driven by the second input shaft.
US08549941B2	Multi-stage transmission Driven gears are supported on a hollow driven gear shaft in a manner engageable with and disengageable from a hollow driven gear shaft via swing pawl members. The transmission has first a engaging member for engaging the gear shaft with a first driven gear, so as to effect synchronous rotation thereof and a second engaging member for engaging the gear shaft with a second gear, one step lower in the reduction gear ratio than the first gear, so as to effect synchronous rotation thereof. When making an upshift by changing over the engaging member from the engagement with the first gear to the engagement with the second gear, the gear shift is made by engaging the second gear with the gear shaft through the second engaging member while the first gear is being in engagement with the gear shaft through the first engaging member.
US08549940B2	Drive system of a forming press In a drive system of a forming press for driving the plunger with a crank mechanism controllable by a servomotor, the torques of the servomotors that are required to achieve a high pressure force for the plunger by means of intermediate gearing, preferably with a double gear transmission, to the cam or crank mechanism, wherein the symmetrically configured drive arms of multipoint presses for the right and the left pressure points of two-point presses or the pressure point groups of four-point presses are optionally mechanically synchronized with one another in such a way that each of the intermediate gears of the first or of one of the first gear transmissions is effectively connected to the others.
US08549939B2	Start control device Provided is a start control device capable of reducing power consumption during the driving operation of a starter motor, to thereby improve fuel efficiency of a vehicle. In the start control device, a motor drive torque estimating part (123) estimates a motor drive torque based on a battery voltage drop amount of a battery (107) that supplies an electric power to a motor (105). A start control part (122) turns off energization of a pinion pushing device (104) by a pinion driving part (120) when the motor drive torque estimated by the motor drive torque estimating part (123) is equal to or larger than a given value.
US08549937B2	Method for determining COP generation factors for single-crystal silicon wafer A whole determination area of a targeted wafer is concentrically divided in a radial direction, COP density is obtained in each divided determination segment, a maximum value of the COP density is set as COP densityRADIUSMAX, a minimum value of the COP density is set as COP densityRADIUSMIN, a value computed by “(COP densityRADIUSMAX-COP densityRADIUSMIN)/COP densityRADIUSMAX” is compared to a predetermined set value, and a non-crystal-induced COP and a crystal-induced COP are distinguished from each other based on a clear criterion, thereby determining the COP generation factor. Therefore, a rejected wafer in which a determination of the crystal-induced COP is made despite being the non-crystal-induced COP can be relieved, so that a wafer production yield can be enhanced.
US08549931B2	Speed or torque probe for gas turbine engines There is provided a variable reluctance sensor for sensing the speed or torque of a shaft in a gear box or gas turbine engine, comprising a magnetic pole piece a conductive wire wrapped around the pole piece a housing surrounding the pole piece, the housing having a front face and at least one side wall, wherein, in use, the front face is positioned proximate to an object to be sensed wherein the pole piece is rigidly fixed to the side wall of the housing. This arrangement reduces microphony in the sensor.
US08549928B2	Weld strength test A push test fixture having a cradle and a load pin is provided along with a test sample that reasonably represents the strength and quality of the original welds that hold the wrap wires and axial wires of the sample together. The test sample is placed in the push test fixture such that a particular weld on the test sample is aligned between the cradle and the load pin. A load is applied through the weld using the load pin, and a strength property such as the ultimate strength or the yield strength of the weld is determined. The cradle helps maintain the original, as-wrapped curvature of the wrap wire. The test samples can come, for example, from direct wrap filters or wire-wrap jackets. The strength property can be determined for at least every third wrap wire of the test sample.
US08549924B2	Pressure compensator A pressure compensator is configured to compensate for volume variations of an insulation medium of a subsea installation. The pressure compensator includes a first bellows chamber having walls and a first bellows part. The first bellows chamber is in flow connection with an insulation medium chamber of the subsea installation, and the walls of the first bellows chamber are configured to separate the insulating medium from surroundings. The first bellows chamber is surrounded by a second bellows chamber having walls and a second bellows part. The second bellows chamber is configured to form a closed intermediate space around the first bellows chamber. The walls of the second bellows chamber are configured to separate at least the bellows parts of the first bellows chamber from the surrounding sea water. The second bellows chamber is further filled with an intermediate medium.
US08549923B2	Remotely addressable pressure and/or temperature measuring device installed in a biological medium A remotely interrogatable pressure and/or temperature measuring device includes at least an acoustic wave sensor including at least one resonator coupled to a first antenna element, and an interrogation system including a second antenna element for transmission and reception. The device further includes an expandable tubular structure, the structure integrating a biocompatible material, and the acoustic wave sensor is encapsulated in the biocompatible material. The second antenna element operates at frequencies above several tens of MegaHertz.
US08549922B2	Motion detection using capacitor having different work function materials An apparatus for detecting mechanical displacement in a micro-electromechanical system includes a capacitor having first and second plates spaced from one another, the first and second plates having different work functions and being electrically connected with each other. The capacitor plates are movable with respect to one another such that a spacing between the plates changes in response to a force. A current through the capacitor represents a rate of change in the spacing between the plates at a given time.
US08549921B2	Sensor for detecting acceleration Exemplary embodiments relate to a sensor for detecting an acceleration acting on the sensor, having: a substrate, a mass unit, which acts as an inert mass in the event of the presence of an acceleration, a fixing structure, wherein the mass unit is articulated on the substrate in such a way that at least one pivot axis is defined, about which the mass unit can perform a rotation relative to the substrate as a result of an acceleration acting on the sensor, and the mass unit has an interial center of gravity, which is at a distance from the respective pivot axis, and at least one detection unit, with which a change in position between the mass unit and the substrate may be detected. The detection unit is arranged with respect to the mass unit in such a way that a deformation of the mass unit cannot be transferred to the detection unit.
US08549917B2	Microelectromechanical gyroscope with enhanced rejection of acceleration noises An integrated microelectromechanical structure is provided with a driving mass, anchored to a substrate via elastic anchorage elements and designed to be actuated in a plane with a driving movement; and a first sensing mass and a second sensing mass, suspended within, and coupled to, the driving mass via respective elastic supporting elements so as to be fixed with respect thereto in said driving movement and to perform a respective detection movement in response to an angular velocity. In particular, the first and the second sensing masses are connected together via elastic coupling elements, configured to couple their modes of vibration.
US08549915B2	Micromachined gyroscopes with 2-DOF sense modes allowing interchangeable robust and precision operation A z-axis gyroscope design is presented with a 2-degree of freedom (DOF) sense mode allowing interchangeable operation in either precision (mode-matched) or robust (wide-bandwidth) modes. This is accomplished using a complete 2-DOF coupled system which allows for the specification of the sense mode resonant frequencies and coupling independent of frequency. By decoupling the frame connecting the sense system to a central anchor, x-y symmetry is preserved while enabling a fully coupled 2-DOF sense mode providing control over both the bandwidth and the amount of coupling independent of operational frequency. The robust mode corresponds to operation between the 2-DOF sense mode resonant frequencies providing a response gain and bandwidth controlled by frequency spacing. Precision mode of operation, however, relies on mode-matching the drive to the second, anti-phase sense mode resonant frequency which can be designed to provide a gain advantage over a similar 1-DOF system.
US08549912B2	Disk drive transport, clamping and testing A disk drive transporter, for transporting a disk drive and for mounting a disk drive within a test slot, includes a frame configured to receive and support a disk drive. The frame includes sidewalls configured to receive a disk drive therebetween and sized to be inserted into a test slot along with a disk drive. The frame also includes a clamping mechanism operatively associated with at least one of the sidewalls. The clamping mechanism includes a first engagement element and a first actuator operable to initiate movements of the first engagement element. The first actuator is operable to move the first engagement element into engagement with a test slot after a disk drive being supported by the frame is arranged in a test position in a test slot.
US08549910B2	Fuel system electro-static potential differential level sensor element and hardware/software configuration A sensor assembly for sensing the level and type of fuel in a reservoir is provided. The sensor assembly includes a pair of electrically conductive plates extending longitudinally between opposite ends and positioned in laterally spaced relationship with respect to one another. The pair of plates are encapsulated within a substrate of a less electrically conductive material to isolate the plates from one another and from their external environment. The substrate is of a spring-like material which is expandable and contractible in order to vary the height of the sensor assembly.
US08549909B2	Vessel probe connector with solid dielectric therein A modular TDR probe assembly is presented. The probe assembly includes a first section with a central conductor and an outer conductor having a first impedance, and a second section with a central conductor and an outer conductor having a second impedance. An impedance matching elbow joins the first section and the second section. The elbow contains a solid dielectric insert with a bore passing through it housing a terminal pin that conveys electrical signals between the center conductor of the first section and the center conductor of the second section.
US08549906B2	Tubing expansion A method of expanding a tubular downhole comprises mounting a sensing device in a downhole tubular to be expanded, expanding at least a portion of the tubular and then engaging the sensing device with a retrieving device. The sensing device is then translated through the expanded tubular.
US08549903B2	Method for testing a vehicle or a sub-system thereof A method for testing a vehicle or a sub-system thereof on a test stand or in a road trial, wherein the method provides force and torque transmitting interfaces which are at least partially present in reality. To be able to further increase the flexibility of test runs or test drives, at least one further sub-system or one component which is not present in reality is reproduced independently of the interfaces via a simulation program which is supplied with real, actual measured values and/or signals of the real part, wherein the output signals of the simulation model are fed to a control device of the real part for further processing.
US08549902B2	Apparatus for and method of detecting abnormality in exhaust gas temperature sensor On the basis of a correlation between exhaust gas temperature detected by an exhaust gas temperature sensor and exhaust gas temperature estimated according to an engine operating condition, it is detected whether or not abnormality occurs in the exhaust gas temperature sensor. Namely, when a change characteristic of the detected exhaust gas temperature follows a change characteristic of the estimated exhaust gas temperature, it is determined that the exhaust gas temperature sensor is normal. On the other hand, when the change characteristic of the detected exhaust gas temperature does not follow that of the estimated exhaust gas temperature, it is determined that the exhaust gas temperature sensor is abnormal.
US08549901B2	Sensor structure In relation to a humidity sensor sensitive to water and contamination, a sensor implementation structure that achieves both protection performance against water and contaminants and measurement performance such as humidity responsiveness is provided. A sensor structure has a mass airflow measurement element that measures a mass airflow flowing in an intake pipe, a humidity sensing element that senses humidity of air flowing in the intake pipe, a housing structural component having a connector that carries out input/output to/from outside and a terminal component of the connector, and a bypass passage that is composed by using part of the housing structural component and takes in part of the air that flows in the intake pipe, the mass airflow measurement element being mounted in the bypass passage; wherein space is provided in the housing structural component in the vicinity of the bypass passage, the humidity sensing element is mounted in the space.
US08549900B2	Gas state estimation device for internal combustion engine A time-course change (dM/dt) in the mass of air in an intake passage downstream of a throttle value is estimated through application of a mass conservation law to the air in the passage. A time-course change dTm/dt in the temperature of the air in the passage is estimated through application of an energy conservation law to the air in the passage. The pressure of the air in the passage is estimated on the basis of the mass of the air in the passage obtained through integration of dM/dt with respect to time, the intake air temperature obtained through integration of dTm/dt with respect to time, and a state equation applied to the air in the passage. Only the state equation includes a term regarding the volume of the passage. Therefore, it is possible to easily identify the volume while monitoring only a change in the intake air pressure.
US08549888B2	System and device for designing and forming a surgical implant A method is provided for determining the shape of a surgical linking device that is to be attached to a bony body structure such as the spinal column based on digitized locations of a plurality of attachment elements engaged to the bony structure. The method is implemented by a computer system through a GUI to generate an initial bend curve to mate with the plurality of attachment elements. The initial bend curve may be simplified based on user input to the GUI to reduce the number of bends necessary to produce a well-fitting linking device and may be altered to help obtain the goals of the surgery.
US08549887B2	Textile product treating apparatus having an ultrasonic cleaning device The invention relates to a textile product treating apparatus, in a particular washing machine (1) or a dryer, comprising a main body (4) of the apparatus including a washing and/or drying device; an ultrasonic cleaning device (30) comprising an ultrasonic transducer and an ultrasonic wave emitting surface (36); and a treatment area (14) adapted to place a textile product to be treated thereon. According to the invention, the textile product treating apparatus is provided with a moveable tray (12), wherein the treatment area (14) is arranged on or over the moveable tray; and a moving mount connecting the movable tray (12) to the main body (4) and adapted to guide a movement of the moveable tray between a retracted position and a working position, wherein in the retracted position the moveable tray is retracted in the main body (4) and in the working position the tray is extending beyond the base area of the main body.
US08549886B2	Graphite heating furnace A gas supplying unit supplies a nitrogen gas into a furnace body of a graphite heating furnace in which at least a part of the furnace body is formed with a graphite. An exhausting unit exhausts a gas inside the furnace body to outside the furnace body. A dew-point temperature of the nitrogen gas supplied into the furnace body is equal to or lower than −80° C. A pressure inside the furnace body is equal to or higher than 140 Pa with respect to an atmospheric pressure outside the furnace body.
US08549884B2	Bottom plate lift mechanism for a glassware forming machine A bottom plate lift mechanism for a glassware forming machine includes a bottom plate assembly having at least one bottom plate on a base with a passage for feeding cooling air to the bottom plate. The bottom plate assembly is mounted on a housing that has a cooling air chamber for directing cooling wind to the bottom plate assembly. A lift mechanism is operatively coupled to the housing for selectively raising and lowering the housing and the bottom plate assembly mounted on the housing. The housing has an opening to the cooling air chamber for receiving a cooling air control cartridge to control passage of cooling wind through the chamber to the bottom plate assembly. A plurality of control cartridges are interchangeably insertable through the opening into the chamber for selectively controlling passage of cooling air to the bottom plate assembly in different cooling modes of operation associated with the cartridges.
US08549882B2	Pre-processing techniques to produce complex edges using a glass slumping process Apparatus, systems and methods for forming complex edges on a glass member through the use of a glass slumping process are disclosed. According to one aspect of the invention, a method of forming a complex edge in a glass forming process includes grinding an edge of a glass member and polishing the edge of the glass member. Grinding the edge of the glass member causes the edge of the glass member to have a first level of complexity. The method also includes performing a slumping process on the glass member. Performing the slumping process causes the edge of the glass member to have a second level of complexity that is more complex than the first level of complexity.
US08549881B2	Preventing gas from occupying a spray nozzle used in a process of scoring a hot glass sheet A spray nozzle is used in a process of quenching a hot glass sheet during a laser scoring process or other high energy glass heating process. The nozzle is located in proximity to the glass sheet, creating gas in liquid used to quench the glass located in the nozzle (e.g., water). The gas (e.g., air bubbles) is removed from the quenching liquid. Then, the spray nozzle is used to spray the quenching liquid onto the sheet at a location trailing laser scoring of the sheet. The spray nozzle has a purge opening and tubing leading to a discharge location. The spray nozzle can have a sloped passageway that pre-stages gas bubbles near the purge opening. The spray nozzle can include a cooling coil passing around the nozzle passageway to cool the quenching liquid passing through the nozzle, and increase the solubility of bubbles in the quenching liquid.
US08549875B2	Modular valve The invention provides a valve comprising a house and a drum rotatable in the house. The house comprises a plurality of substantial identical tubular mid-section house members, a bottom house member, and a top house member. When connecting the house members to each other, a continuous outer wall surrounding a house cavity, a port, and a plurality of nozzles being in fluid communication with the house cavity is provided. The drum comprises a plurality of substantial identical tubular mid-section drum members, a bottom drum member, and a top drum member. When connecting the drum members to each other, an inner wall having an outer surface being adapted for rotation in contact with a corresponding inner surface of the outer wall, the inner wall comprising a plurality of conduits is provided. During rotation of the drum, the conduits can be brought into and out off fluid communication with the nozzles in order to provide passages between the port and the nozzles. Furthermore, the invention provides a set of members to form a valve, and a system for thermal exchange.
US08549874B2	Refrigeration system A refrigeration system (10) includes: a refrigerant circuit (11) performing a vapor compression refrigeration cycle by including a compressor (30), a utilization side heat exchanger (24) configured to allow refrigerant to perform heat exchange with air, and a heat-source side heat exchanger (25) configured to allow refrigerant to perform heat exchange with water; and a casing (14) housing the utilization side heat exchanger (24). The casing (14) contains a power supply (31) including a power semiconductor device and configured to supply electric power to the compressor (30), and also contains a cooler (19) configured to cool the power supply (31) by supplying air to the power supply (31).
US08549872B2	Refrigerator The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator. The refrigerator includes a cold air generator configured to generate cold air. The refrigerator also includes a first storage chamber configured to receive the cold air generated by the cold air generator. The refrigerator further includes a first storage chamber door configured to open and close an access point to the first storage chamber and configured to store at least one of food and ice stuffs. In addition, the refrigerator includes a second storage chamber, having a container and positioned on the first storage chamber, wherein the second storage chamber is configured to be movable in front and rear directions.
US08549871B1	Multi tray refrigerated chest for rapidly quenching beverages The disclosure features various embodiments and aspects of a chest for quenching beverages. The chest can include a tank for holding a chilled mixture of ice and water, an ice maker adapted for making ice having an output for ejecting ice into a conduit in fluid communication with the tank, and a plurality of quench trays disposed above the tank for holding containers of beverages located in first and second positions. The trays can be filled with cold water by way of a conduit in fluid communication with the tank. The quench trays can include a compartment defined by a bottom and a plurality of walls, and defining therein a plurality of rows for aligning and containing a plurality of beverage containers. The drawers can further include at least one drain orifice configured to guide water out of the quench tray.
US08549870B2	Water circulation system associated with refrigerant cycle The present invention proposes a water circulation system associated with a refrigerant cycle that can selectively heat-exchange water for cooling and heating and hot water supplying with at least one of a first refrigerant and a second refrigerant. Therefore, the present invention can improve the operation efficiency of the water circulation system associated with the refrigerant cycle.
US08549869B1	Modular data center Modular data centers with modular components suitable for use with rack or shelf mount computing systems, for example, are disclosed. The modular center generally includes a modular computing module including an intermodal shipping container and computing systems mounted within the container and configured to be shipped and operated within the container and a temperature control system for maintaining the air temperature surrounding the computing systems. The intermodal shipping container may be configured in accordance to International Organization for Standardization (ISO) container manufacturing standards or otherwise configured with respect to height, length, width, weight, and/or lifting points of the container for transport via an intermodal transport infrastructure. The modular design enables the modules to be cost effectively built at a factory and easily transported to and deployed at a data center site.
US08549868B2	Refrigeration cycle apparatus A refrigeration cycle apparatus (50) includes: a main refrigerant circuit (21) having a compressor (1), a radiator (2), a first expansion mechanism (5), a second expansion mechanism (6), and an evaporator (4); an injection passage (22) for supplying an intermediate-pressure refrigerant to an injection port 1c of the compressor 1; and a water circuit (30) through which water to be heated in the radiator (2) flows. The refrigeration cycle apparatus (50) includes a sub heat exchanger (3) for cooling the water in the water circuit (30) by exchanging heat between the refrigerant in the injection passage (22) and the water to be heated in the radiator (2).
US08549863B2	Device for supplying fuel to a gas turbine engine with regulated fuel flow rate A fuel supply device includes a fuel supply pipe receiving fuel at a non-regulated pressure delivered by a pump, a device for measuring the flow rate of fuel in the pipe, a first controlled variable-restriction valve mounted in the supply pipe, a control system connected to the flow rate measurement device and to the first valve to control the valve to deliver fuel to the engine at a desired flow rate under normal operating conditions of the engine, a second controlled variable-restriction valve mounted in the supply pipe in series with the first valve, and a control for controlling the second valve to enable the engine to be supplied with fuel at an adjustable, reduced flow rate in response to detecting over-speed or over-thrust of the engine.
US08549861B2	Method and apparatus to enhance transition duct cooling in a gas turbine engine A method and apparatus are described that include a transition piece including a cooling sleeve. The cooling sleeve includes a first end and an opposite second end, the cooling sleeve is coupled to an inner wall of the transition piece, such that an annular passage is defined between the inner wall and the cooling sleeve. The first end defines an annular inlet and second end defines an annular outlet.
US08549859B2	Combustor apparatus in a gas turbine engine A combustion apparatus in a gas turbine engine comprises a combustor shell for receiving air, a fuel injection system associated with the combustor shell, a first fuel supply structure, and a shield structure. The fuel supply structure is in fluid communication with a source of fuel for delivering fuel from the source of fuel to the fuel injection system and comprises a first fuel supply elements including a first section extending along a first path having a component in an axial direction and a second section extending from the first section along a second path having a component in a circumferential direction. The shield structure is associated with at least a portion of the second section of the first fuel supply element.
US08549857B2	Methods and/or systems for magnetobaric assisted generation of power from low temperature heat Methods and/or systems using magnetically assisted pressurization of a gas for the generation of useful power from heat transfer using heat sources at lower temperatures in a manner that does not require the emission of CO2.
US08549856B1	Energy harvesting systems and methods of assembling same A method of assembling an energy harvesting system is provided. The method includes coupling at least one energy storage device in flow communication with at least one apparatus that is configured to generate thermal energy and to transfer the thermal energy into at least one fluid stream. The energy storage device is configured to store the fluid stream. Moreover, the method includes coupling at least one fluid transfer device downstream from the energy storage device. The fluid transfer device receives the fluid stream from the energy storage device. A bladeless turbine is coupled in flow communication with the fluid transfer device, wherein the bladeless turbine receives the fluid stream to generate power.
US08549852B2	Hydraulic oil tank, hydraulic oil tank manufacturing method and construction vehicle equipped with hydraulic oil tank A hydraulic oil tank has a housing, a connecting member and a filtering device. The housing includes a main body, a storage compartment and a first through hole. The storage compartment is formed within the main body for containing a the hydraulic oil, and the first through hole is formed through the main body. The connecting member is disposed on the main body and covering the first through hole, the connecting member including a contact face having a planar shape. The filtering device is disposed within the storage compartment. The filtering device is connected to a part of the contact face exposed within the first through hole. The filtering device includes an overlapped portion overlapping with an inner edge of the first through hole in a plan view of the first through hole seen from inside of the storage compartment.
US08549850B2	Exhaust gas aspirator According to one representative embodiment, an aspirator for cooling exhaust gas from an internal combustion engine includes a nozzle section, an expansion section, and an air entrainment section. The nozzle section is communicable in exhaust receiving communication with the internal combustion engine. The nozzle section includes a plurality of nozzles through which an exhaust gas stream is flowable. The expansion section is communicable in exhaust receiving communication with the plurality of nozzles. The air entrainment section is communicable in air supplying communication with the expansion section. The air is mixable with the exhaust gas within the expansion section.
US08549849B2	Insulated main NH3 cartridge system with separate start-up unit A system and method relate to a reductant dosing for use in the reduction of NOx in an exhaust stream is disclosed. The system and method incorporates a separate first or start-up cartridge and an insulated mantel or housing containing at least one to a plurality of main cartridges. The first and main cartridges store an ammonia adsorbing/desorbing material, which releases ammonia gas upon application of sufficient heat. The start-up cartridge permits the initial release of ammonia gas into the exhaust stream even during start-up of an engine, and because it is separate from the main cartridge, the first cartridge cools faster than the main cartridge and can be replenished with ammonia sooner than the main cartridge. The start-up cartridge is housed in or surrounded by a non-insulating debris shield.
US08549837B2	Exhaust apparatus for transverse engine An exhaust upstream section (48) of an exhaust apparatus (E) comprises a plurality of branch pipe portions (32), a plurality of intermediate collector pipe portions (33), a final collector pipe portion (34), and an exhaust gas-purifying unit (40). The exhaust gas-purifying unit (40) is disposed on a vehicle-rear side of an engine (1) to allow a gas passage thereinside to extend approximately in vehicle-widthwise direction, in top plan view. Each of the plurality of intermediate collector pipe portions (33) curves to allow an exhaust downstream region of the intermediate collector pipe portion (33) to be oriented toward one side or the other side of the vehicle-widthwise direction, in top plan view, and the final collector pipe portion (34) curves to allow an exhaust downstream region of the final collector pipe portion (34) to be oriented toward a vehicle-front side, in top plan view.
US08549836B2	Method for operating an exhaust system, exhaust system and vehicle having an exhaust system A method for operating an exhaust system including at least one oxidation catalytic converter, at least one configuration for selective catalytic reduction and at least one measuring probe for determining the effectiveness of the configuration, includes at least determining a conversion effectiveness of the configuration using the at least one measuring probe and calculating an effectiveness of nitrogen monoxide conversion in the oxidation catalytic converter from the determined conversion effectiveness. In this way, an estimate of the effectiveness of the nitrogen monoxide conversion to nitrogen dioxide of an oxidation catalytic converter in the exhaust system can be obtained without additional measuring probes in or on the oxidation catalytic converter. This reduces the maintenance frequency of the exhaust gas system and at the same time enables precise regulation of the exhaust gas conversion as a whole. An exhaust system and a vehicle having an exhaust system are also provided.
US08549834B2	Gas turbine engine with variable area fan nozzle A nacelle assembly for a bypass gas turbine engine includes a variable area fan nozzle having a first fan nacelle section and a second fan nacelle section. The variable area fan nozzle is in communication with a fan bypass flow path, the first fan nacelle section defines an intermittent trailing edge which defines a multiple of ports and the second fan nacelle section defines a multiple of doors, each of the multiple of doors match each of the multiple of ports such that a fan nacelle trailing edge is continuous when the second fan nacelle section is selectively translated to a closed position relative to the first fan nacelle section.
US08549830B1	Method and apparatus for imparting false twist to yarn before ring spinning A method and apparatus for imparting false twist to a short staple yarn delivered from a nip of a pair of front drafting rollers before ring spinning. Downstream of the nip, the twisted yarn is drawn sequentially across first and second runs of travelling endless belts, such that the yarn wraps about a first convex surface of the first run, then passes between the first and second runs, before wrapping about a second convex surface of the second run. Friction between each of the first and second convex surfaces and the yarn imparts the false twist in a common direction. Maintaining a differential between first and second linear speeds of the first and second runs, respectively, has been found to reduce yarn defects, particularly the nep count.
US08549827B2	Rotary cutter for mower A rotary cutter for a mower has a cord for cutting grass and the like by rotating itself; a reel for housing the cord and feeding the cord while intermittently rotating; a case for housing the reel; a cover for covering the case; and a pressing body protruding from the case. The pressing body is axially movable by being pressed, and intermittently rotating the reel. The reel and the pressing body are integrally constructed. Concave grooves for inserting the cord are provided in the reel in a radial direction and the cord is wound by fitting it to the concave grooves.
US08549825B2	Case packer A case packer is adapted to convey a plurality of packages and to pack the plurality of conveyed packages in a box. The case packer includes a first conveying unit, a detector, a second conveying unit and a control unit. The first conveying unit is configured and arranged to convey the packages. The detector is configured and arranged to detect a thickness of at least one of the packages. The second conveying unit includes an accumulating portion where the packages are accumulated with the packages being partially overlaid on one another. The second conveying unit is configured and arranged to convey the packages overlaid in the accumulating portion. The control unit is configured to adjust operation of the second conveying unit based on a detected value from the detector.
US08549822B2	Packaging machine and process In one embodiment, a packaging machine includes a mechanism for compressing one or more sides of the bag to expel excess air from an open top end of the bag. In one embodiment, a packaging machine supports a top portion of a bag and a bottom portion of the bag, such that the bottom portion of the bag is moved closer to the top portion of the bag as the bag is moved from a first location to a second location. The bags may be supported from below such that additional support is provided during compression of the bag to remove excess air.
US08549821B2	Method and system for loading digital content into a digital storage device and subsequent packaging There is provided a method for loading varied pre-determined digital content into a plurality of digital storage devices, and subsequently providing each digital storage device with varied pre-determined accessories. It is preferable that the digital content loaded into the digital storage device is not identifiable at the digital content loading post, and the consolidated digital storage device and the pre-determined accessories are shipped to particulars of the shipping label. A corresponding system is also provided.
US08549818B2	Process and apparatus for introducing products into containers in a picker line In a process for introducing individual products into containers by means of a picker line comprising at least two pickers individual products are individually picked and transposed to containers. The individual products and the containers are delivered in counterflow on at least one transportation device for the individual products and on at least one transportation device for the containers. The delivery of a next container to be filled into the transposition area of the picker line is controlled by any picker. The picker which is controlling the delivery of the next container to be filled is determined by the number of currently introduced products at the infeed of the picker line.
US08549816B2	Panel installation support apparatus A panel installation support apparatus versatile and convenient for temporary attachment of the panel to a frame member includes an adjustable support surface for accommodating various panel thicknesses, a sloped surface to support the leading edge of the panel when positioning in place, and an alignment support shelf to properly align an edge of the panel with the joist or stud while supporting the edge of the panel. An accessory block may be used when standing a panel against a wall or when hanging drywall on sloped ceilings.
US08549815B2	Drilling rig masts and methods of assembly and erecting masts Methods for connection parts of a mast of a drilling rig without using a crane or other lifting machine are disclosed. In certain aspects, these methods include moving parts of a mast to be assembled with trucks and positioning the parts with the trucks to facilitate their connection. This Abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims, 37 C.F.R. 1.72(b).
US08549812B1	Multi-section telescoping structure A telescoping structure includes a hollow outer section and a hollow inner section slidably mounted in the hollow outer section. The hollow outer section includes a first sidewall, a second sidewall and a third sidewall. The hollow inner section includes a fourth sidewall, a fifth sidewall and a sixth sidewall. A pair of sliding rails is disposed on the interior side of the first sidewall and a pair of raised sliding grooves is defined on the exterior side of the fourth sidewall. The pair of raised sliding grooves engages with the pair of sliding rails to enable a sliding movement of the hollow inner section relative to the hollow outer section.
US08549796B2	Connector system for building modules A building includes first and second building modules connected together by a connector system. The connector system comprises a first connector block (51) fixed to the first building module, a second connector block (52) fixed to the second building module, a load bearing fixing plate (63) interposed between the first and second building modules and projecting outwardly therefrom, and a spigot (61) that passes through an opening in the fixing plate (63), projecting on one side of the plate into an opening in the first connector block (51) and projecting on the opposite side of the plate into an opening in the second connector block (52).
US08549794B2	Shade shelters and systems and methods therefor Shade shelters for reducing air conditioning loads of an associated shelter are provided. The shade shelters aim to reduce the thermal radiation effects of the sun on associated shelters, such as temporarily erected shelters. The shade shelters can be configurable so that natural convection is advantageously utilized for aiding in reducing heat transfer into the interior space of the associated shelter. The natural convection can be in the form of the “chimney effect” for reducing heat transfer into the interior space of the shelter.
US08549791B1	Gutter and fascia cover system An improved gutter system which utilizes an anchored roof segment. The roof segment allows the attachment of a gutter body or a fascia cover via a ball and socket type joint. In order to make the system more aesthetically pleasing, a decorative molding of any color or shape may be attached to the front wall of the gutter body or the fascia cover. Preferably the decorative member resembles a crown molding commonly used in the construction industry; however, an infinite number of profiles are possible and only depend on the designer of the decorative member.
US08549789B2	Hidden window retainer system for doors A door has a frame forming an opening of the door, a window unit rotatably attached to the frame for positioning in the opening of the frame, a retainer moveably mounted on the frame, and an operator for operating the retainer. The retainer is moveable from a released position wherein the retainer is disengaged from the window unit, to a retaining position, wherein the retainer engages the window unit to hold the window unit in the opening.
US08549788B2	Hydroponic growing system A hydroponic growing system including a nutrient reservoir and a planting tray having a perimeter air channel for floating on a liquid in the reservoir. A continuous planting trough is included in the planting tray for growing multiple plants in an un-segmented arrangement which is defined by a series of laterally spaced support arms extending across and underneath an opening in a support plate for carrying plant growth materials. The planting tray floats in the reservoir so that a majority of the planting trough is disposed above the liquid in the reservoir to allow for lateral air root growth. A flexible flange is carrier around the perimeter of the planting tray engaging the reservoir to form a light barrier between the planting tray and the reservoir. An air line passes into the reservoir which is connected to an air pump for introducing air into the liquid in the reservoir.
US08549787B2	Lighting assembly A lighting fixture for facilitating plant growth and a light emitting component. The fixture comprises a single light emission source LED device which provides at least two emission peaks in the wavelength range of 300-800 nm and at least one of the emission peaks has Full Width of Half Maximum (FWHM) at least 50 nm or higher. The emission peaks of the LED match well with a plant photosynthesis response spectrum and is therefore particularly suitable for high efficiency artificial lighting.
US08549786B1	Rifle rest A rifle rest is structured to be utilized in conjunction with standard, readily available tripods, for example, camera tripods. Some examples of the rifle rest include a rear stock support that is secured to two of the three tripod legs at its lower portion, and to the shoulder stock of the rifle at its upper portion. Other embodiments of the rifle rest include an elastomeric recoil reducer secured between the tripod and the shoulder stock.
US08549784B2	Bayonet This invention provides a bayonet (10) comprising an attachment portion (12) having a first opening (16) for receiving the muzzle of a gun. A second opening is also provided that is aligned with the first opening to allow the passage of a bullet therethrough. An extension portion (14) extends from the attachment portion in the opposite direction of the gun barrel and terminates in a point (24). The attachment portion (12) substantially comprises a polymer and the extension portion (14) has a non ferrous structural core substantially over-molded with a polymer.
US08549779B2	Tradeshow display system A variety of configurations are disclosed for modular tradeshow display systems that can be assembled without the use of tools or other specialized machinery.
US08549778B2	Device at a portable display panel system Provided is a portable display panel system including a rack, upper and lower rods having pairs of upper and a lower holder ribs, and a cloth or a panel of a printable material. Each of the rods has a through-cavity. An elastic string extends through each of the upper and lower holder ribs and is attached to the outer ends of the outermost rods. Male and female couplings are arranged at the abutting ends of the rods arranged in pairs, which may be brought together in either two positions, which are turned by 180°, or four positions which are turned by 90° relative to each other. At least one pair of the rods are bent or angled.
US08549776B2	Flap sensor activated greeting cards The interactive flap sensor activated greeting card of the present invention contains an audio module and a series of “window flaps” across the inside of the greeting card. When the greeting card is opened, a short audio prompt instructs the user to open a series of flaps inside the card to hear further audio messages or sound clips that correlate with the art work inside the card. When each flap is opened, a different audio file is played. The sound module is programmed to react to the card opening and then to trigger additional individual sounds each time one of the flaps of the card is opened. In another embodiment, the greeting card contains a series of flaps wherein opening one flap reveals another flap, and so on. Once the last flap is opened, a short audio recording is activated.
US08549775B2	Latching system for securing an implement to a carrier mounted to a lifting arm A remotely operable latching system for securing an implement to a carrier mounted to a forward end of a lifting arm for pivoting about a horizontal tilt axis. The latching system is mounted to the carrier and includes a latching rod arrangement operated by an extensible and retractable linear electric motor between a retracted latching position and an extended unlatching position. A secondary latch arrangement is provided for rotating the latching rod arrangement to an arrested position preventing movement of the rod arrangement to its latching position once the latching rod is extended to its unlatching position. Movement of the rod arrangement to its arrested position is aided by a spring and by the electric motor. A microprocessor based control unit is coupled to the electric motor and acts in response to a boom height input signals to prevent operation of the motor when the boom is above a preset height.
US08549772B2	Footwear construction eliminating the use of a foxing or a foxing-like band Embodiments of the present invention provide a footwear construction and method of constructing footwear that may include an outsole having a sidewall that defines a perimeter of the outsole. The footwear construction may also include an upper coupled to the sidewall around the perimeter of the outsole, wherein the sidewall overlaps the upper by less than the critical distance for at least 60% of the perimeter of the outsole.
US08549771B2	Dryness detection method for clothes dryer based on pulse width A device and method are provided for detecting a root moisture content of clothing in a clothes dryer. The dryer has two conducting bars situated in the dryer bin. A pulse generator circuit is coupled to the conducting bars. A microcontroller is coupled to an output of the pulse generator circuit. The pulse generator circuit generates a pulse when wet clothing contacts the conducting bars in the dryer bin. The microcontroller receives the pulses and counts the pulses that are longer than a threshold length. The microcontroller issues a termination signal based on the number of counted pulses.
US08549770B2	Apparatus and method of drying laundry with drying uniformity determination An apparatus and method of drying laundry in a treating chamber with a partially dry laundry load determination.
US08549766B2	Rack extension jig device In a rack extension jig device 9, a protracted direction E of tooth projections 12-14 and an elevational direction H of racks 7, 8 are placed in a coplanar position G. This makes it possible to positively engage the tooth projections 12-14 with the respective rack teeth 7, 8 and half tooth surfaces 7c, 8c so as to set a predetermined pitch interval T at a contact portion between the neighboring racks 7, 8 by only pushing the tooth projections 12, 13, 14 against roots 7d, 8d of the respective rack teeth 7, 8 in perpendicular to the roots 7d, 8d, thereby making a rack-adding work easy, quick and user-friendly.
US08549762B2	Linkage drive mechanism for a reciprocating tool Preferred embodiments of a reciprocating drive apparatus are disclosed that comprise a housing, a rotatable drive shaft assembly located in the housing an elongated plunger located in the housing for reciprocating motion, the plunger having a front end portion for attaching a tool thereto, a rotary joint rocker mechanism supported in the housing and operatively connected to the plunger and the drive shaft assembly so that rotation of the drive shaft assembly produces reciprocating motion of the plunger. Another preferred embodiment includes a reciprocating counterweight.
US08549756B2	Hair clipper with a vibrator motor A vibrator motor in a hair clipper has a stationary piece and a moving piece. The stationary piece has a primary leg and at least one secondary leg. The primary leg fits through an opening in a coil. A flange is then press fit onto the leg so that the coil is captured on the primary leg. The flange provides a magnetic pole face that is larger than the opening in the coil, which increases the efficiency of the motor. The flange is press fit in a single operation by pressing a primary prong into a primary socket, and pressing two secondary prongs into secondary sockets. The secondary prongs are guided inwardly as they enter the secondary sockets, which closes the primary socket around the primary prong. A drive arm is secured to an arm of the moving piece. The arm is angled in relation to the drive arm to put even pressure on the moving blade in the hair clipper.
US08549755B2	Compact utility knife A compact utility knife includes a blade holder slidably connected to a handle. A trapezoidal utility blade detachably mounts to the blade holder via a blade lock mechanism. A slide lock mechanism selectively retains the blade holder in its extended or retracted position relative to the handle. When the blade holder is extended, the blade holder and a majority of the blade extend forwardly of a forwardmost point of the handle. Extending the blade holder significantly increases an overall length of the knife such that the knife is comfortable to use when in the extended position and longitudinally compact when in the retracted position. The knife includes a blade lock mechanism. An aperture in the front of the handle creates a gap between the blade and the handle to discourage debris on the blade from transferring to the handle when the blade is retracted.
US08549754B2	Rotating head multi-angled cutting knife A knife that consist of a handle with a lockable and rotatable cutter head. The handle has a locking mechanism that secures the cutter head in numerous cutting positions and also in a safety position. The cutter head contains the blade. After the edges get dull the blade can be rotated within the cutter head to allow for the use of new cutting edges. The blade can easily be replaced by loosening the cutter head pivot bolt. The cutter head and pivot bolt remain attached to the knife during this process.
US08549745B2	Fabricating process of circuit substrate A process for fabricating process a circuit substrate having a base layer, a first patterned conductive layer, a dielectric layer, a conductive block and a second patterned conductive layer. The first patterned conductive layer is disposed on the base layer and has a first pad. The dielectric layer is disposed on the base layer and covers the first patterned conductive layer, wherein the dielectric layer has an opening and the first pad is exposed by the opening. The conductive block is disposed in the opening and covers the first pad. The second patterned conductive layer is disposed on a surface of the dielectric layer and has a second pad, wherein the second pad and the conductive block are integrally formed.
US08549744B2	Printed circuit board using bump and method for manufacturing thereof The present invention provides a method for manufacturing a printed circuit board and a print circuit board manufactured thereby, in which through holes of a core board are filled by reverse pulse plating so that it allows to manufacture a core board having greater than 100 μm of a thickness which has been a processing limitation with conventional technologies and form bumps on a thick insulation layer, which has been difficult till now, and thus providing resistance against pressure of paste bumps produced during stacking due to the increased strength of a core board, convenience to join between layers, excellent heat-releasing effect, and collectively stacking of core boards, which was not possible with conventional methods.
US08549742B2	High-voltage power supply device and image forming apparatus having same A high-voltage power supply device includes a circuit board having a piezoelectric transformer; a frequency-controlled oscillator for generating a frequency signal that drives the piezoelectric transformer in accordance with a control signal; a switching element connected to a primary side of the piezoelectric transformer for performing a switching operation in accordance with the frequency signal; a capacitor and inductor forming a parallel resonance circuit for performing a resonating operation owing to switching by the switching element; and a capacitance element connected across ground and the power-supply side of the inductor. The capacitance element and the inductor are arranged on the circuit board in such a manner that when the circuit board undergoes solder-mounting, the capacitance element and the inductor are immersed in a solder bath before the piezoelectric transformer.
US08549738B2	Flex circuit with single sided routing and double sided attach A method for providing electrical connections to both sides of a touch sensor panel is disclosed. The method comprises forming conductive traces on a first surface of a base film, shaping the base film to form first and second attachment areas that include the conductive traces, forming a conductive shield over the conductive traces, wherein the shield is electrically coupled to one or more of the conductive traces, and folding the base film such that the conductive traces on the first and second attachment areas are positioned and aligned for attachment to pads on first and second sides of the touch sensor panel.
US08549737B2	Method of connecting a grid array package to a printed circuit board The present invention relates to a compliant leaded interposer for resiliently attaching and electrically connecting a ball grid array package to a circuit board. The interposer may include a substrate, a plurality of pads, and a plurality of pins. The plurality of pads may be positioned substantially on the top surface of the substrate and arranged in a predetermined pattern substantially corresponding to the solder ball pattern on the ball grid array package. The plurality of pins may be positioned substantially perpendicular to the substrate and may extend through the substrate and the plurality of pads. The interposer may be configured to attach the ball grid array package to the circuit board such that each of the solder balls on the ball grid array package contacts at least a portion the plurality of pins and at least a portion of the plurality of pads and such that the each of the plurality of pins also connects to a contact on the circuit board.
US08549736B2	Component fixing device and electrical device having the same A component fixing device includes a holding portion for holding a component with a hollow portion while restricting a movement of the component; and a fixed portion elastically connected to the holding portion and to be fixed to an object. The holding portion is inserted into the hollow portion of the component for holding the component. The holding portion may have a center holding portion abutting against an outer surface of the component and a pair of arm portions disposed at both sides of the center holding portion and capable of bending relative to the center holding portion, so that the center holding portion and the arm portions sandwich the component.
US08549732B2	Method of forming an electromagnetic sensing coil in a medical instrument A surgical navigation system for navigating a region of a patient includes a non-invasive dynamic reference frame and/or fiducial marker, sensor tipped instruments, and isolator circuits. The dynamic reference frame may be repeatably placed on the patient in a precise location for guiding the instruments. The instruments may be precisely guided by positioning sensors near moveable portions of the instruments. Electrical sources may be electrically isolated from the patient.
US08549724B2	Fastener A fastener for fastening at least two work pieces together comprises a body and a pin. The body has a head, a shaft extending from the head and an open hollow core extending into the shaft. The shaft has a retaining means spaced from the head to accommodate the work pieces. The retaining mechanism has a contracted configuration where it is sized to pass through holes in the work pieces and an expanded configuration where it is expanded in size or spacing such that the shaft is unable to be removed from the holes in the work pieces. The retaining mechanism defines a constriction in the core at which the core has a first width when the retaining mechanism is in its contracted configuration. The pin is locatable in the core. The pin has a least a first portion with an external width greater than the first width of the core. The pin is movable within the core and is arranged to cause the retaining mechanism to change to the expanded configuration as the first portion of the pin moves into contact with the constriction.
US08549720B2	Tool revolver unit for a machine tool A tool revolver unit for a machine tool for machining workpieces has a housing (1) and a tool drive rotatable relative to the housing about an axis (3), has a rotary drive (13, 15) for a rotational motion of the tool disk, and has another rotary drive (19, 23). The other rotary drive (19, 23) is a servomotor for controlling a locking device (5, 31, 37) enabling a releasable rotary lock between the housing (3) and the tool disk.
US08549718B2	Ferroelectric oxide structure, method for producing the structure, and liquid-discharge apparatus A ferroelectric oxide structure includes a substrate and a ferroelectric thin-film deposited on the substrate. The ferroelectric thin-film has a thickness of greater than or equal to 200 nm and a tetragonal crystal system. The ferroelectric thin-film has (100) single-orientation crystal orientation.
US08549716B2	Method for manufacturing a piezoelectric actuator A method for manufacturing a piezoelectric actuator is provided. The method includes: forming a diffusion-preventive layer having an electrical conductivity on a partial surface thereof on a surface of a vibration plate formed of a metallic material; forming a piezoelectric layer on the surfaces of the diffusion-preventive layer and the vibration plate; forming an electrode in an area of the piezoelectric layer which overlaps the partial surface of the diffusion-preventive layer having the electrical conductivity; forming an extraction electrode in an area of the piezoelectric layer which does not overlap the diffusion-preventive layer; and heating the piezoelectric layer and the vibration plate after the piezoelectric layer is formed so as to diffuse metallic atoms of the metallic material of which the vibration plate is formed to the piezoelectric layer, thereby making the extraction electrode be in conduction with the partial surface of the diffusion-preventive layer having the electrical conductivity.
US08549715B2	Piezoelectric microspeaker and method of fabricating the same A piezoelectric microspeaker fabricated by a method including: forming a lower drive unit by forming a first drive electrode by depositing and etching a first thin conductive layer on a substrate, forming a first piezoelectric plate by depositing and etching a first piezoelectric layer on the first drive electrode, and forming a first common electrode by depositing and etching a second conductive layer on the first piezoelectric plate; after forming the lower drive unit, forming a diaphragm by depositing a non-conductive layer on the first common electrode; and forming an upper drive unit by forming a second common electrode by depositing and etching a third conductive layer on the diaphragm, forming a second piezoelectric plate by depositing and etching a second piezoelectric layer on the second common electrode, and forming a second drive electrode by depositing and etching a fourth conductive layer on the second piezoelectric plate.
US08549710B2	Hinge assembly with a multi-layer torsion bar spring A friction hinge assembly includes a spring that assists the opening of a first member relative to a second member by storing energy in the spring during the closing operation. The spring is of a unique multilayered torsion bar design.
US08549709B2	Button activated spring-loaded hinge assembly A hinge assembly includes a receiving seat, a control member, a clutch member, a follower, a main shaft and an elastic element. The receiving seat includes a first cam surface. The control member is releasably latched with the receiving seat. The cam includes a second cam surface. The follower includes a third cam surface engaging with the first cam surface or the second cam surface. The receiving seat, the control member, the cam and the follower are placed around the shaft. The elastic element provides an elastic force for the follower. After the control member is unlocked, the second cam surface engages with the first cam surface.
US08549707B2	Hinge A hinge including first and second hinge members movable between an open position and a closed position, the first hinge member including a substantially cylindrical body portion having a longitudinal axis about which the second hinge member is rotatable to move the hinge between the open position and the closed position; the body portion housing biasing means having an end fixed relative to the second hinge member, the biasing means being in engagement with an adjustment member, the adjustment member being fixed with respect to the first hinge member; wherein the adjustment member includes a ratchet means to move the adjustment member in a first direction to increase the tension in the biasing means.
US08549704B2	Hand-held cordless vacuum cleaner A hand-held vacuum cleaner with a container for the storage of dirt and debris therein. To provide improved efficiency and performance, the hand-held vacuum may employ a primary HEPA filter, a device for swirling a dirt and debris laden air flow and/or a mechanized filter cleaning device. Swirling may be employed to direct entrained dirt and debris in a desired direction relative to the container to slow the rate with which dirt and debris accumulates on the primary filter and/or to centrifugally remove dirt and debris from the air flow. Mechanized cleaning is employed to shake, scrape or otherwise remove accumulated dirt and debris from the primary filter.
US08549702B2	Floor washing-drying machine The present invention refers to a floor washing-drying machine, in particular of the drives-on-board kind, provided with at least a front driving and steering wheel (3), a pair of rear wheels (5), a brush-carrying head (4) positioned between the front driving wheel and the supporting axle of the rear wheels, and a wiping and vacuuming device (6) arranged behind the rear wheels. The brush-carrying head (4) is connected with the machine frame through a support and steering system of four-arm linkage type (X,Y,J,W; 17,19) which is driven by a gear steering device (11,12,14,15). The technical solution allows to solve efficiently the problem of collecting washing liquid and to dampen impacts of the machine against obstacles which it may encounter along its path.
US08549698B1	Vacuum cleaner with wind-driven lighting equipment A vacuum cleaner with wind-driven lighting is characterized in that an interior of an ordinary vacuum cleaner is installed with a wind-driven power generation device constituted by fan blades, an acceleration gear set and a generator. When the vacuum cleaner is operating, a suction force of the vacuum cleaner is converted into wind-driven power to provide electricity needed by an LED. Therefore, at a same time when the vacuum cleaner is operating, by this energy-saving device for the generation of wind-driven power, light can be illuminated on blind spots inside a house where a light intensity is insufficient.
US08549697B1	Unattended spot cleaning with surface sanitization A spot cleaning apparatus has a housing, a fluid distribution system, a fluid recovery system, an agitation system, at least one UV light emitting element, an optional steam generator, and a controller to automatically monitor and control inputs and outputs to the systems for spot and stain removal and surface sanitization without attendance by a user. A suction nozzle, agitation machine, and optionally, at least one UV light emitting element are mounted to the housing for movement over the surface to be cleaned relative to a stationary housing. Optionally, the spot cleaning apparatus can be operated in manual mode.
US08549695B2	Window wiper device for a vehicle A window wiper device for a vehicle has a driving motor, the motor shaft of which is kinematically coupled to an output shaft, wherein the motor shaft and output shaft are releasably drive-connected via a connecting means.
US08549689B2	Lawn sweeper assembly with tilt-able hopper and latch assembly and method of use thereof The present disclosure relates to a lawn sweeper designed to collect debris, such as grass clippings and leaves, from a surface such as a lawn, and more particularly to a lawn sweeper with a tilt-able hopper frame and hopper bag that includes a handle such that an operator may tilt the hopper frame and hopper bag, using the handle, to empty the hopper bag contents. The hopper bag and hopper frame are connected to a lawn sweeper unit using a hopper rod which is inserted into two slots at the ends of two hopper support bars and secured within the slots by two corresponding latch plates, one latch plate at each end of the two hopper support bars. The latching mechanism allows the hopper frame and hopper bag to be easily removed from the lawn sweeper unit for storage.
US08549686B2	Adjustable bed An inflatable bed having a primary body, a backrest selectively inclinable relative to the primary body, a slit defined at a junction of the primary body and the backrest, and a pouch received in the slit to be selectively inflatable to move the backrest relative to the primary body. The slit is defined in a manner that when the pouch is inflated and the backrest is lifted by the pouch, friction of a bottom face of the backrest to a top face of ground where the inflatable bed is rested is minimized so as to facilitate the inclinable movement of the backrest relative to the primary body.
US08549684B2	Gelastic material having variable or same hardness and balanced, independent buckling in a mattress system A cushioning element has a first gelastic cushion element made from a flexible, resilient, gel cushioning media having shape memory. The first gelastic cushion element has a first hub section, and a first spoke and a second spoke. Each spoke has a proximal end that extends from the first hub section. Each distal end and the spoke area between the distal end and the proximal end does not interconnect to the other spoke, and/or a second gelastic cushion element having a second hub section and corresponding spokes. Each distal end is positioned near and/or contacts the second gelastic cushion element. At least one of the first hub section, the first spoke and the second spoke is capable of buckling beneath a protuberance that is located on the object.
US08549681B2	Active mattress spinner A device is disclosed for facilitating rotation of a mattress in a horizontal plane carried by a box spring. Slick surfaces between the mattress and the box spring are selectively placed in contact in order to reduce the normal friction therebetween. The slick surfaces may be provided by two separate covers; one cover for the mattress and one cover for the box spring. A first cover is provided with a slick and non-slick surface. A second cover includes a slick surface on one side and forms part of a levitation device. The other side of the second cover may be formed with a slick or a non-slick surface. A levitation device creates an air cushion between the mattress and the box spring under the influence of an air supply which lifts the mattress and allows the mattress to be rotated in a horizontal plane virtually effortlessly.
US08549679B2	Personal lifting device A personal lifting device includes a housing that carries first, second, third and fourth lifting mechanisms. First, second, third and fourth lift lines are connected to the respective lifting mechanisms. Further, the device includes a controller for selectively operating the first, second, third and fourth lifting mechanisms whereby the first, second, third and fourth lifting lines are independently extended and retracted as desired to lower and lift a person.
US08549678B2	Accelerated tub drain The present invention provides a drain system for a walk-in bathtub. The drain system includes a conventional drain opening in the bottom of the walk-in bathtub and a second drain opening in the side of the foot well of the bathtub. A motorized pump pumps water out of the bathtub through the second drain opening in the foot well. A first drain line provides water outflow from the conventional drain opening to a primary drain pipe. A second drain line provides outflow from the motorized pump to the primary drain pipe, and a third drain line joins the primary drain pipe from an overflow opening near the top of the bathtub. A low water sensor is coupled to the second drain line and motorized pump and deactivates the pump when the water level in the bathtub is equal to or lower than the second drain opening.
US08549677B2	Automatic water flushing control device and its faucet A control device for automatic water discharge installed at position where water is discharged in apparatus for automatic water discharge in a kitchen and sanitary environment is provided. The device comprises a housing, a sensor unit disposed inside the housing, a water discharge unit, and an electromagnetic valve assembly. The housing comprises a first holding chamber configured to receive the sensor unit, a second holding chamber configured to receive the electromagnetic valve assembly, a third holding chamber configured to receive the water discharge unit, and a water intake chamber. The sensor unit comprises a circuit board and a sensor set at the circuit board. The circuit board is provided with a processor. The electromagnetic valve assembly comprises an electromagnetic valve electrically connected with the circuit board and a diaphragm unit. Motion of the diaphragm unit controls connecting and blocking between the water intake chamber and the third holding chamber to respectively realize water discharge or to stop water. The control device for automatic water discharge is designed as compact structures, and is conducive to the miniaturization of products.
US08549670B2	I-pocket for an accessory item The present invention is a securing pocket for attachment to an accessory article that supports a small hands-free electronic device. The pocket further comprises an opening within the accessory article for supporting the pocket. The opening is dimensioned and contoured to support the electronic device. The pocket further comprises a first covering and a second covering dimensioned and contoured to support the electronic device. The second covering overlays the first covering and have a seamless attachment thereto with an edge being left unattached for receiving and removing the electronic device. Cut out openings extend through the base material of the accessory article and first covering1.
US08549667B1	Articles of clothing with a bottle opener A functional article of clothing is provided with a pocket preferably on the interior surface of the article of clothing with an access opening and a transverse slot; and a bottle opener disposed within the pocket. The mouth of the opener is oriented with the transverse slot of the pocket so that the mouth of the opener is open to the outside of the pocket when the bottle opener is disposed within said pocket and the opener can engage a bottle without being removed from the pocket. In one embodiment the pocket is formed with a rectangular sheet with a slot that is folded lengthwise over a lower hem and the sides are secured to the clothing by stitching or fasteners. The opener and the pocket may include advertising indicia.
US08549663B2	Glove reinforcement method A glove having one or more reinforcements affixed thereon that reduce restriction of movement of fingers of a user. The reinforcements cross to form at least one X-shaped pattern when projected on a plane of motion of an interphalangeal joint of the fingers. The one or more reinforcements are located substantially on one or both sides of the interphalangeal joint of the fingers. The X-shaped pattern is substantially centered over an axis of rotation of the interphalangeal joint.
US08549662B2	Protective gear A protective head gear for a user having an outer panel, an inner panel, a retention pleat on the inner panel, a respirator, and an indexed fastener. The outer panel is disposed relative to the inner panel to provide efficacious spatial separation therebetween. The fastener is formed to adjustably and releasably secure at least a portion of the inner panel to the user. An indexing element is attached to the fastener, and is formed of material substantially tactilely different from the fastener, the outer panel, or the inner panel, to permit the user to unambiguously locate the point of fastening. The outer panel, inner panel, and respirator, can be composed of fabrics having one or more layer, and one layer can have a repellent characteristic different from another (e.g., hydrophobic vs. hydrophilic).
US08555406B2	Remote viewing of multimedia content A method and system for remote viewing of multimedia content using a multimedia content distribution network (MCDN) is configured to duplicate multimedia content displayed on a first MCDN terminal device and route the duplicate multimedia content to a second MCDN terminal device. The MCDN terminal devices may be coupled to a local network at an MCDN client premises. The MCDN terminal devices may also include wireless telephony devices for mobile remote viewing functionality. The method may include transcoding of the multimedia content into a format suitable for the second MCDN terminal device.
US08555405B2	Method and system for the authorization management A method is provided for the authorization management of digital contents between at least one owner of authorizations with a first electronic work environment and at least one user of the contents with a second electronic work environment. The owner of the authorizations provides the digital contents to the user of the contents by means of the first electronic work environment at a defined scope of authorizations and the user of the contents is entitled to use the provided digital contents on the second electronic work environment only at the defined scope of authorization. The digital contents are encoded with encryption, the encoded contents are exchanged between the first electronic work environment and the second electronic work environment and the encoded contents are subsequently decoded by means of decryption pertaining to the digital contents.
US08555404B1	Connectivity-based authorization Techniques which allow definition and enforcement of connectivity-based action and execution authorization policies. On a computer, an action or execution attempt is intercepted in real-time. The connectivity state of the computer, the subject process, the program file of the subject process, the attempted action and the object of the attempted action are determined. An authorization policy considering the connectivity state indicates whether the attempted action is authorized or not. In a tracking mode, the attempted action and its authorization are logged and the attempted action is allowed to proceed. In an enforcement mode, unauthorized attempts are blocked and logged, thereby enforcing the authorization policy.
US08555400B2	Privacy-preserving aggregation of Time-series data A private stream aggregation (PSA) system contributes a user's data to a data aggregator without compromising the user's privacy. The system can begin by determining a private key for a local user in a set of users, wherein the sum of the private keys associated with the set of users and the data aggregator is equal to zero. The system also selects a set of data values associated with the local user. Then, the system encrypts individual data values in the set based in part on the private key to produce a set of encrypted data values, thereby allowing the data aggregator to decrypt an aggregate value across the set of users without decrypting individual data values associated with the set of users, and without interacting with the set of users while decrypting the aggregate value. The system also sends the set of encrypted data values to the data aggregator.
US08555399B2	Information processing apparatus and method and storage medium An information processing apparatus capable of preventing user's personal information from leaking even when transmission destination information managed in a user-specific address book is transferred to an apparatus users' shared address book. The apparatus is equipped with a function for managing destination information n on a destination indicative of an external apparatus to which data is to be transmitted. An apparatus users' shared address book area stored destination information available to any user. A user-specific address book area stores destination information which can be accessed only by a specific user. When the destination information stored in the user-specific address book is transferred to the apparatus users' shared address book in response to a user's operation, user's personal information included in the destination information is deleted before the transfer.
US08555397B2	Consumer-controlled data access to shared RFID data An electronic product code information service (EPCIS) interface is provided, where the EPCIS interface allows accessing applications residing on a variety of systems and associated with a plurality of enterprises/organizations to receive EPC-related data. Also provided is a consumer security profile in which access authorization governing the extent of data collection and/or access by an entity to EPC-related consumer data is specified. Access by an accessing application may be allowed within an extent permitted by access authorization specified in the consumer security profile.
US08555393B2	Automated testing for security vulnerabilities of devices A method includes selecting an attack signature from an attack signature database; generating a fingerprint that includes parameters indicative of the attack signature; generating configuration data for one or more test devices based on the fingerprint, wherein the configuration data is capable of configuring the one or more test devices to provide a security response to the attack signature; providing the configuration data to the one or more test devices; transmitting the attack signature to the one or more test devices; examining a security response to the attack signature from the one or more test devices; and outputting a result of the examining.
US08555392B2	System and method for detecting unknown packers and cryptors Disclosed are systems, methods and computer program products for detecting unknown packers and cryptors. An example method comprises emulating execution of a software object modified by an unknown packer or cryptor; collecting information about memory operations performed during the emulation; combining information about a plurality of related memory operations into at least one sequential set of memory operations; identifying from the at least one sequential set of related memory operations one or more high-level operations associated with unpacking or decryption of the emulated object; and generating based on the one or more high-level operations a record of the unknown packer or cryptor to be used for detecting the unknown packer or cryptor.
US08555391B1	Adaptive scanning Diversity information associated with a set of advertisement tags is determined. Example ways of determining diversity include determining a list of distinct Uniform Resource Locators, determining a list of distinct domains, and determining whether an advertisement includes one or more dynamic elements. Scans are adaptively performed based on the determined diversity information. Scanning is performed more frequently for advertisement tags having higher associated diversities and scanning is performed less frequently for advertisement tags having lower associated diversities.
US08555388B1	Heuristic botnet detection In some embodiments, heuristic botnet detection is provided. In some embodiments, heuristic botnet detection includes monitoring network traffic to identify suspicious network traffic; and detecting a bot based on a heuristic analysis of the suspicious network traffic behavior using a processor, in which the suspicious network traffic behavior includes command and control traffic associated with a bot master. In some embodiments, heuristic botnet detection further includes assigning a score to the monitored network traffic, in which the score corresponds to a botnet risk characterization of the monitored network traffic (e.g., based on one or more heuristic botnet detection techniques); increasing the score based on a correlation of additional suspicious behaviors associated with the monitored network traffic (e.g., based on one or more heuristic botnet detection techniques); and determining the suspicious behavior is associated with a botnet based on the score.
US08555382B2	Method and system for automatic invariant byte sequence discovery for generic detection A method for creating a set of genericized signatures for detection of byte sequences in computer code includes accessing a first set of sample signatures, determining a maximum number of wildcards that a wildcarded signature may comprise, determining a first wildcarded signature corresponding to the first set of sample signatures, evaluating the first wildcarded signature, and repeating the steps of evaluating for any second wildcarded signatures. Each of the signatures corresponds to an instance of malware. The evaluation further includes if the number of wildcards in the first wildcarded signature exceeds the maximum number of wildcards, determining a plurality of second wildcarded signatures corresponding to a plurality of subsets of the set of sample signatures. The evaluation further includes if the number of wildcards in the first wildcarded signature is less than or equal to the maximum number of wildcards, adding the first wildcarded signature to a set of genericized signatures.
US08555381B2	Cloud computing as a security layer A system includes a computing cloud comprising at least one data storage unit and at least one processing unit. The computing cloud is configured to connect to at least one client and monitor the traffic of the at least one client. The computing cloud is further configured to determine an operational mode of the client, compare the monitored traffic with an anticipated traffic pattern associated with the operational mode, and determine if a security threat is indicated based on the comparison.
US08555379B1	Method and apparatus for monitoring communications from a communications device A method and apparatus for monitoring communications from a communications device comprising monitoring communications from a communications device by storing a data acquisition address in a contact list of the communications device that identifies a location of a monitoring device. Further, when malicious software uses the contact list to send messages, a message is sent using the malicious software to the monitoring device using the data acquisition address.
US08555378B2	Authorization caching in a multithreaded object server Systems and methods are included for accessing resource objects in a multi-threaded environment. A request is received from a requester to perform an operation with respect to a resource object, where the requested resource object has multiple associations with other objects. A determination as to whether an authorization cache entry corresponding to the requested resource object contains sufficient permission data for granting or denying the request for access to the requested resource object is made. A grant or deny of access to the requested resource object is returned when the authorization cache entry corresponding to the requested resource object contains sufficient permission data.
US08555376B2	Method and system for supporting portable desktop with enhanced functionality A method is disclosed for a peripheral portable desktop device. The peripheral portable desktop device is coupled with a workstation. In a second mode of operation, a portion of the peripheral portable desktop device is operatively coupled with the workstation for operation therewith to provide an ancillary function. In a first mode of operation data within the peripheral portable desktop device is used to support a personal desktop on the workstation.
US08555375B2	Configuration method for control units The invention relates to a configuration method for a control unit of a machine, the control unit having a data memory and being mounted in a machine control system having at least one already configured control unit with a data memory, the to-be-configured control unit communicating via a data connection with the already configured control unit of the machine control system and retrieving therefrom configuration data for its own configuration.
US08555373B2	Network security module for Ethernet-receiving industrial control devices A high-speed security device for network connected industrial controls provides hybrid processing in tandem hardware and software security components. The software security component establishes state-less data identifying each packet that requires high-speed processing and loads a data table in the hardware component. The hardware component may then allow packets matching data of the data table to bypass the software component while passing other non-matching packets to the software component for more sophisticated state analysis.
US08555369B2	Secure firewall rule formulation A kernel extension is configured to intercept a call to associate a socket with a port of a node in a network. The call originates from a kernel of the node. The kernel extension is configured to determine the port from the call. The kernel extension is configured to determine that the port is one of a plurality of ports for which the node has authority to modify firewall rules of a firewall of the network. The kernel extension is configured to modify firewall rules maintained by the firewall to allow communications for the port to the node through the firewall.
US08555367B2	Method and system for securely streaming content A system and method for securely streaming media. The system includes a gateway server that receives requests for access to a secured data resource from an end users. The request include an authorization ticket and a referring website. The gateway server validates the authorization ticket using a secret key shared with the referring website, and validates the referring website by verifying that referring website is on a white-list for the secured data resource. The gateway server selects a data server to service the request, and formats a data server access request containing the data server location and data server request parameter data and transmits the data server access request to the end users. When end users transmit the data server access requests to a data server, the data server validates the request and transmits it to the end user.
US08555363B2	Authenticating a user of a system using near field communication A system and machine-implemented method for providing a username and password to a system using a device, via establishing a near field communication link with the system; retrieving a username and password from storage on the device; and transmitting the username and password to the system via the near field communication link, wherein the username and password are configured to be used by the system to authenticate the user on the system.
US08555361B2	Dynamic cryptographic subscriber-device identity binding for subscriber mobility A method of authentication and authorization over a communication system is provided. The method performs a first authentication of a device based on a set of device identity and credentials. The first authentication includes creation of a first set of keying material. The method also includes performing a second authentication of a subscriber based on a set of subscriber identity and credentials. The second authentication includes creation of a second set of keying material. A set of compound key material is created with a key derivation mechanism that uses the first set of keying material and the second set of keying material. A binding token is created by cryptographically signing at least the device identity authenticated in the first authentication and the subscriber identity authenticated in the second authentication using the set of compound keying material. The signed binding token is exchanged for verification with an authenticating and authorizing party.
US08555357B1	Techniques for mitigating forgotten password attacks Techniques for mitigating forgotten password attacks are disclosed. In one particular exemplary embodiment, the techniques may be realized as a method for mitigating forgotten password attacks comprising receiving an indication of a forgotten password communication for a user, identifying verification information associated with the forgotten password communication, determining a level of difficulty of inferring the verification information based on public information associated with the user, and calculating a level of risk associated with the verification information.
US08555356B2	Network-agnostic content management System(s) and method(s) are provided for content management, e.g., exchange and manipulation, across devices provisioned through disparate network platforms. Devices can be mobile or stationary, and connect to provisioning network platforms through various network bearers. Through various secure protocols, a client component within a device secures access to content and provides secure delivery thereof. Directives for content manipulation are also delivered securely. Delivery of contents and directives are performed from device to device, routed via gateway nodes within a network platform that provisions the device. In addition, or alternatively, content management can be implemented through an intermediary component, which can also validate devices and secure delivery of content or directives. Alarm signaling among devices provisioned through disparate network platforms also can be securely conveyed. Intermediary component also can be exploited for content management among subscribers of disparate network providers.
US08555351B2	Trusted database authentication through an untrusted intermediary A method, system and computer-usable medium are disclosed for validating user credentials submitted to a data source by an untrusted intermediary. An untrusted intermediary attempts to access a data source on behalf of a user. The untrusted intermediary challenges the user to provide credentials of the type and format required to access the data provided by the data source. The user's trust client connects to an authentication service and identification credentials of the required type and format are generated. The identification credentials are conveyed to the user's trust client, which then provides them to the user's client, which in turn conveys them to the untrusted intermediary. The untrusted intermediary then presents the identification credentials to an authentication plug-in of the data source. The authentication plug-in validates the authenticity of the provided credentials with their associated authentication service. Once the credentials are successfully validated, the requested data is provided to the user's client by the untrusted intermediary.
US08555348B2	Hierarchical trust based posture reporting and policy enforcement A method that includes initiating a network access request from an access requester on a platform that couples to a network, the network access request made to a policy decision point for the network. The method also includes establishing a secure communication channel over a communication link between the policy decision point and a policy enforcement point on the platform. Another secure communication channel is established over another communication link. The other communication link is between at least the policy enforcement point and a manageability engine resident on the platform. The manageability engine forwards posture information associated with the access requester via the other secure communication channel. The posture information is then forwarded to the policy decision point via the secure communication channel between the policy enforcement point and the policy decision point. The policy decision point indicates what access the access requester can obtain to the network based on a comparison of the posture information to one or more network administrative policies.
US08555346B2	Generating user and avatar specific content in a virtual world Generation of user and avatar specific content in a virtual world may include generating a local attribute object. The local attribute object may comprise attributes identifying at least one of the user's real world location and the user's avatar's virtual world location. Access to the local attribute object by virtual world operators may be controlled by the user and/or user's avatar. Specific content, based on the local attribute object, is presented to the user's avatar.
US08555343B2	Managing resource allocations based on traffic patterns A device receives, from a user device, a request to access a network, determines whether to accept or deny the request to access the network, and monitors traffic provided to or from the user device via the network. The device also determines a traffic pattern for the user device based on the traffic, classifies the traffic as one of high throughput traffic, low packet data size traffic, or high frequency packet interval traffic, and applies different network resource control mechanisms to different classifications of the traffic.
US08555342B1	Providing secure access to a set of credentials within a data security mechanism of a data storage system A technique provides secure access to a set of credentials within a data storage system. The technique involves obtaining a unique identifier (e.g., a hostname which is unique to the system) and a set of stable values (e.g., machine-generated codes which are random to users of the system); and, in response to a storage request from a client application, storing a set of credentials of the client application within a data security mechanism of the data storage system. The set of credentials is in encrypted form when stored within the data security mechanism of the data storage system. The technique further involves configuring the data security mechanism of the data storage system to provide the set of credentials in non-encrypted form in response to new fingerprints matching a system fingerprint which is formed at least in part from the unique identifier and the set of stable values.
US08555340B2	Method and apparatus for determining authentication capabilities A method is disclosed for determining the authentication capabilities of a supplicant before initiating an authentication conversation with a client, for example, using Extensible Authentication Protocol (EAP). In one aspect, the method provides for sending, to a supplicant that is requesting access to a computer network subject to authentication of a user of the supplicant, a list of first authentication methods that are supported by an authentication server; receiving, from the supplicant, a counter-list of second authentication methods that are supported by the supplicant; determining how many second authentication methods in the counter-list match the first authentication methods; and performing an authentication policy action based on how many of the second authentication methods match the first authentication methods. Policy actions can include blocking access, re-directing to sources of acceptable authentication methods, granting one of several levels of network access, etc.
US08555332B2	System for establishing communications with a mobile device server A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a computer-readable storage medium operating in a mobile device server having computer instructions to execute a web server application in the mobile device server. The web server application can be operable to cause a media processor to invoke a software application in the mobile device server. The mobile device server can support voice communications over a cellular communication system. Other embodiments are disclosed.
US08555328B2	Information provisioning apparatus and information provisioning method Information provisioning includes acquiring one of an audio and a video elementary stream of content that is composed of a plurality of segments, and actual data of metadata that includes information related to the content. The metadata is divided into metadata processing units (MPU) corresponding to segments subjected to processing in the plurality of segments. A transport stream of a MPEG-2 system is generated that includes packetized elementary stream (PES) packets acquired by packetizing the segments of the data stream and metadata PES packets acquired by packetizing at least one MPU.
US08555327B2	Broadcasting links to enhanced content A computer-implemented method includes receiving, from a secondary computing device, a request for enhanced content for a media program, the request comprising information indicative of a communication channel through which the media program is being displayed on a primary computing device; receiving broadcast information indicative of enhanced content for a plurality of communication channels; extracting, from the broadcast information indicative of enhanced content for the plurality of communication channels, broadcast information indicative of enhanced content for the communication channel through which the media program is being displayed on the primary computing device; obtaining, based on the extracted broadcast information, a link to enhanced content for the media program; and sending, to the secondary computing device, the link to enhanced content for the media program.
US08555325B2	Systems, methods and apparatus for testing a data connection provided over a power supply line Systems, methods and apparatus are described for testing a data connection provided over a power supply line. A testing apparatus is coupled to a socket of the power supply line. The AC power supply line communicatively couples the testing apparatus to a communication device or another testing apparatus. The testing apparatus identifies the signal strengths of signals received by the testing apparatus and identifies the signal strengths of signals received by the communication device. The testing apparatus outputs an indicator of the first signal strength and the second signal strength to a user and this information may be utilized to detect noise or other problems in the data connection provided over the AC power supply line.
US08555321B2	Series reminders and series recording from an interactive program guide An interactive media guidance system with program series reminder and recording capabilities is provided. The system allows a user to set a reminder or schedule a recording for a single episode or for each episode of a program series. Options may be provided that allow the user to schedule reminders/recordings for episodes on all or selected channels for some or all episodes including reruns, new episodes, network or syndicated episodes, on all or only on selected days.
US08555320B2	System and method to record media content Systems and methods of recording media content are provided. A particular method includes accessing user configuration settings. The user configuration settings include at least one premier recording option. Selection of the premier recording option indicates that initial episodes of series programs are to be recorded. The method also includes searching electronic program guide (EPG) information for the initial episodes of series programs in response to determining that the premier recording option is selected in the user configuration settings. The method further includes storing a data record scheduling recording of a particular initial episode of a particular series program identified by searching the EPG information.
US08555319B2	Service guide transmission/reception method and apparatus for broadcast service Service guide transmission/reception methods and apparatuses for providing users with a service guide supporting multiplay service are provided. Service guide delivery information is received at a terminal. Device class grouping information is extracted from the Service guide delivery information. A Service Guide Data Unit (SGDU) having service guide information required for composing a service guide matched to the terminal is received. The service guide composed using the service guide information received by means of the SGDU is displayed.
US08555315B2	Systems and methods for navigating a media guidance application with multiple perspective views Systems and methods are provided for navigating a media guidance application with multiple perspective views. A first of a plurality of media guidance objects may be displayed in a first perspective view that appears flat on the screen. A second media guidance object may be displayed in a second perspective view that appears to be going into the screen creating the appearance of a fold between the first and second media guidance application objects at a location where the first perspective view changes into the second perspective view. The second media guidance object in the second perspective view may be caused to slide through the fold into the first perspective view. The second media guidance object displayed in the first perspective view may be selected. An action may be performed for a media asset corresponding to the selected media guidance object.
US08555308B1	System, method and computer program product for calculating the cost of an advertisement A system, method and computer program product are provided for calculating the cost of an advertisement. Initially, data reflecting an advertisement and usage of the advertisement may be provided. The data provided may then be rated. A cost may then be calculated based on the rated data.
US08555307B2	Virtual channel table for a broadcast protocol and method of broadcasting and receiving broadcast signals using the same A virtual channel table for broadcasting protocol and a method for broadcasting by using the virtual channel table includes identification information identifying and permitting discrimination of active and inactive channels contained in the virtual channel table. At a receiver, the virtual channel table transmitted from the transmitting side is parsed, thereby determining whether the current received channel is an active or inactive channel.
US08555305B2	Incentive rewards obtainable automatically by an audience tuned to a broadcast Providing a reward as an incentive for a person to become an audience member of at least one program being performed by reproduction equipment. A programming signal used for broadcasting the program with a programming signal source is encoded with discrete code signals, such that a preset number of the code signals occur within a given period of time, to produce an output signal which is broadcast. The broadcast output signal is received, and the code signals therein are detected. The number of the code signals detected while the person is an audience member of the at least one program is compared with predetermined reward issuance criteria. A reward is issued when the reward issuance criteria are met by the number of detected code signals.
US08555299B2	Optical disc drive and tray driving device thereof A tray driving device of an optical disc drive in provided to comprising: a driving motor; a belt wheel, disposed on a driving shaft of the driving motor; a belt idler, connected to the belt wheel through a belt, wherein the belt idler has a belt groove for containing the belt, and a guiding inclined plane is protruded on the top of the belt idler; and a gear assembly, connected under the belt idler and connected to a tray.
US08555298B2	Application management system and method of controlling the same An object of this invention is to enable free customization of a component class executed by an application program. To achieve this object, an information processing apparatus executably stores an application program main body and a class library having a plurality of classes. The apparatus includes a unit which acquires the name of an interface described in the application program main body and the name of a customization point, a unit which acquires the name of an interface stored in the class library and the name of a class belonging to the interface, a unit which generates an instance for each customization point by executing a selected one of the classes belonging to the interface corresponding to the customization point, a unit which embeds the instance at the corresponding customization point, and a unit which executes the application program main body with the instance being embedded.
US08555293B2	Method and apparatus for communication between application programs A communication apparatus includes a reception unit configured to receive a transmission message to be transmitted from a first application to a second application, a determination unit configured to determine whether the second application is present in the same area as the first application, an encoding unit configured to encode the transmission message if the second application is determined to be in an area different from the first application, and a transmission unit configured to transmit the transmission message from the first application to the second application, wherein an encoded transmission message is transmitted if the second application is determined to be present in an area different from the first application, and an un-encoded transmission message is transmitted if the second application is determined to be present in the same area as the first application.
US08555290B2	Apparatus and method for dynamic control of the number of simultaneously executing tasks based on throughput A task count controller, a task count control method, and a computer program capable of dynamically controlling the number of tasks that can be processed in parallel simultaneously without increasing computational load are provided. When a plurality of tasks are to be executed simultaneously in parallel processing, the number of tasks that can be executed simultaneously is controlled. The tasks to be executed simultaneously are added in units of a predetermined number of tasks and the throughput in one unit of work is measured for each task every time the tasks are added. The total sum of the measured throughputs is calculated, and it is determined whether the calculated total sum of throughputs is more than the total sum of throughputs immediately before the predetermined number of tasks are added.
US08555288B2	Managing database utilities to improve throughput and concurrency A method, computer program, and system are disclosed for executing a utility on a database system having a plurality of database system nodes. Each database system node has an existing load. An increased load on the database system required to execute the utility is determined. The existing load on each of the database system nodes is determined. The increased load is distributed in such a way as to balance the load among the database system nodes.
US08555286B2	Method, system, and apparatus for establishing a software configurable computing environment A software configurable computing environment can include at least one application disposed within the software configurable computing environment. The environment can also include a resource management engine configured to define at least one computing resource for the software configurable computing environment. A resource allocation engine can allocate the computing resources defined by the resource management engine for use in the software configurable computing environment. A resource utilization engine can perform at least one programmatic action for the application using available ones of the resources allocated by the resource allocation engine.
US08555285B2	Executing a general-purpose operating system as a task under the control of a real-time operating system A task control computer program includes computer executable instructions which when executed by a computer, cause the computer to execute an operating system as a task. The computer is caused to perform determining whether there is an executable non-idle process under control of the operating system and changing a set priority of the operating system task to a priority higher than the primary priority of the operating system task when it is determined that there is an executable non-idle process with the specified time elapsed.
US08555276B2	Systems and methods for transparently optimizing workloads Systems, methods, and media for transparently optimizing a workload of a containment abstraction are provided herein. Methods may include monitoring a workload of the containment abstraction, the containment abstraction being at least partially hardware bound, the workload corresponding to resource utilization of the containment abstraction, converting the containment abstraction from being at least partially hardware bound to being entirely central processing unit (CPU) bound by placing the containment abstraction in a memory store, based upon the workload, and allocating the workload of the containment abstraction across at least a portion of a data center to optimize the workload of the containment abstraction.
US08555275B1	Method and system for enabling an application in a virtualized environment to communicate with multiple types of virtual servers A method and system are introduced to enable an application in a virtualized environment to communicate with multiple types of virtual servers (e.g., VMware ESX server, Microsoft Virtual Server, etc.), yet without making any source code change to the application. An interface is provided so that an application (e.g., a storage management application) running in a virtual machine is able to communicate with the underlying virtual server to receive information regarding some physical hardware that are not virtualized by the virtual server. For example, such physical hardware may be an iSCSI Host Bus Adapter (iSCSI HBA) or a Fiber Channel Protocol Host Bus Adapter (Fcp HBA). After receiving such information, the application can access the physical hardware to provide services to other applications, such as storage management services.
US08555272B2	System and method for implementing data-compatibility-based version scheme A versioning schema enforced by the application development environment enables the runtime environment of a terminal device to evaluate a software update to identify potential compatibility issues and control installation of the update. The versioning schema includes a respective field for each one of a plurality of aspects of the application and defines an initial value of each field when an initial application load is released. For each successive software update affecting the application, the method involves identifying each aspect of the application affected by the software update and incrementing a value of the respective field of each identified aspect. The version number can be in the form D.M.F where D, M and F are incremented in response to changes in the application relating to data components, message components and features.
US08555271B2	Method, software and apparatus for application upgrade during execution A system and method for optional upgrading of a software application on a wireless device during the execution of the software application. The system includes receiving a request to replace a resident executable application with a different version of the application. The system further includes detecting the active execution of the resident executable application. The system also includes receiving, via a network, the different version of the application. Also, the system includes storing the different version of the application in a temporary location in response to detecting the active execution of the resident executable application. In addition, the system includes terminating the active execution of the resident executable application. The system also includes overwriting the resident executable application with the different version of the application stored in the temporary location. Further, the system includes initiating active execution of the different version of the application.
US08555268B2	Automating dynamic programs Solving combinatorial optimisation problems using dynamic programming involves automating the integration of bounds propagation into compilation of a dynamic program. This is done by extracting bounds from partial results obtained during dynamic programming, and tightening the bounds throughout execution of the dynamic program. This dramatically reduces the number of “good” solutions that need to be constructed at each stage, improving speed and scalability of algorithms using such dynamic programming.
US08555267B2	Performing register allocation of program variables based on priority spills and assignments A mechanism for performing register allocation based on priority spills and assignments is disclosed. A method of embodiments of the invention includes repetitively detecting fat points during a compilation process of a software program running on a virtual machine of a computer system, each fat point representing a program point having a high register pressure, the high register pressure occurs when a number of live program variables of the software program living at a given program point of the software program is greater than a number of available processor registers of the computer system. The method further includes choosing a fat point with a highest register pressure, selecting a live program variable having a lowest priority at the chosen fat point, and spilling the lowest priority live program variable to memory of the computer system.
US08555266B2	Managing variable assignments in a program A computer-implemented method, apparatus, and computer program product to manage variable assignments in a program. The process identifies a set of variable assignments that is live on a portion of paths to form a set of identified variable assignments. Each of the set of identified variable assignments assign a value to at least one variable of a set of variables. The process determines a set of program points at which the set of identified variable assignments is live on all paths. The process also moves the set of identified variable assignments to the set of program points in response to determining that the set of identified variable assignments is movable to the set of program points.
US08555262B2	Schema-based dynamic parse/build engine for parsing multi-format messages A parse/build engine that can handle multi-format financial messages. The engine converts the different format messages into a common format, and the common format message is then processed by the business service application. A parser examines the message and determines an appropriate schema for the particular format of message received. The schema is a data structure in a schema registry that includes a grammar structure for the received format as well as pointers to handlers for converting the different fields of the message into the internal message format using the grammar structure (the “grammar” can include field sequence, field type, length, character encoding, optional and required fields, etc.). The handlers are individually compiled. As formats change, new formats or changes to old formats can be dynamically added to the parse/build engine by loading new schema and handlers.
US08555258B2	Software performance analysis using data mining A system, method, and computer program for analyzing code execution and software performance characteristics are disclosed. Samples of code during run-time or from crash logs can be displayed as both a top-down tree of calls from a particular function and a bottom-up tree of calls to the particular function. Data mining techniques, including filtering and focusing, remove code that is not of interest and display code that is more relevant to performance analysis. In particular, functions contained in libraries such as system libraries can be stripped from view. The cost associated with an excluded function can be propagated to a calling function, in either the top-down or bottom-up tree.
US08555253B2	System and method for monitoring exploratory testing by a plurality of testers A system and method for monitoring exploratory testing by a plurality of testers of software containing a graphical user interface is disclosed. The method includes recording interactions of each of the plurality of testers with a graphical user interface (GUI) under test. The recorded interactions of each tester can be stored in an interaction database. An interaction footprint map is created from the interaction database to show which portions of the GUI under test have had interaction with at least one of the testers. The interaction footprint map is displayed in relation to the GUI for at least one end user.
US08555251B2	Signal processing apparatus with user-configurable circuit configuration A signal processing apparatus for performing signal processing including a plurality of steps in data units by software signal processing includes signal processing modules performing the steps, a circuit configuration information storing and managing unit storing the signal processing modules and circuit configuration information, a signal processing order determining unit determining a signal processing order by performing path routing, a signal processing executing unit executing the signal processing in the determined order, and a circuit configuration changing unit changing circuit configuration information and causing the signal processing order determining unit to re-execute path routing to determine a signal processing order for the changed circuit configuration information during a period from the end of the software signal processing in the data unit to the beginning of the subsequent data unit. Software signal processing from the beginning of the subsequent data unit is performed with the changed circuit configuration.
US08555248B2	Business object change management using release status codes A computer-implemented system may include a data store to store business data, an application platform, and a business application. The application platform may include a repository to store metadata defining a plurality of business objects, each of the business objects comprising a respective model of data and associated logic, each business object associated with respective business object entities, and a framework in communication with the repository to provide access to the business data. The business application is to access the data via the framework and based on the metadata, wherein the metadata associates a first plurality of the business object entities with a RELEASED release status code, and wherein the metadata associates a second plurality of the business object entities with a DEPRECATED release status code.
US08555246B2	Method and apparatus for programming software components A method and apparatus are disclosed for programming software components that treats software components as the basic unit of abstraction and computation. A software component is encapsulated and classes and other program entities, such as data fields and methods, within a given component do not exist beyond a component boundary. A component interacts with other components only by means of a defined set of input and output ports. A component can inherit and implement ports declared in a template and can declare and implement new ports. A component can only access the external environment through its output ports. An output port of one component can only be connected to a conforming input port of another component. A connect statement is an explicit plumbing operation for connecting components together. Interactions between components are loosely coupled. A related set of templates can be grouped together to form a group.
US08555239B1	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.
US08555237B1	Method and apparatus for design rule violation reporting and visualization An apparatus and method for reporting design rule violations of an integrated circuit design includes collecting data from a design rule checker module, processing the data, and displaying design rule violations onto the layout. The display of the design rule violations may be interactive by including hypertext links to specifications, text bubbles with violation explanations, measurements, highlighting areas of the layout corresponding to a particular rule, and providing hierarchically expandable nodes for constraint violations in a browser.
US08555236B2	Non-invasive leakage power device characterization of integrated circuits using device grouping and compressive sensing Techniques are generally described for non-invasive, post-silicon characterization of—leakage power for devices of an integrated circuit (IC). A system of sparse leakage power equations may be developed for the devices (e.g. gates) within the IC to be solved using compressive sensing (CS) techniques. Input Vectors (IV) may be applied at input terminal of the IC, and power of the IC may be measured. The measurements may be used in conjunction with the set of sparse equations to determine leakage power values for individual devices, not directly accessible. Pre-processing and post-processing techniques may be employed to make the system of equations more sparse and further improve the efficiency of applying CS techniques to solve the equations. Example processing may include variable splitting, device grouping, IV and equation selection, measurement under elevated IC temperature, and bootstrapping. Other aspects may be disclosed and claimed.
US08555235B2	Determining a design attribute by estimation and by calibration of estimated value A computer-implemented method of determining an attribute of a circuit includes using a computationally expensive technique to simulate the attribute (such as timing delay or slew) of a portion of the circuit, at predetermined values of various parameters (e.g. nominal values of channel length or metal width), to obtain at least a first value of the attribute. The method also uses a computationally inexpensive technique to estimate the same attribute, thereby to obtain at least a second value which is less accurate than the first value. Then the computationally inexpensive technique is repeatedly used on other values of the parameter(s), to obtain a number of additional second values of the attribute. Applying to the additional second values, a function obtained by calibrating the at least one second value to the at least one first value, can yield calibrated estimates very quickly, which represent the attribute's variation relatively accurately.
US08555230B2	Isolation method and package using a high isolation differential ball grid array (BGA) pattern According to an embodiment an improved Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) isolation method and system for assigning signal pins in an ASIC package having a plurality of signal pins is disclosed. The method and system comprise identifying an isolation requirement of the ASIC and determining an optimized pattern for substantially diagonal pairing of signal pins in relation to the isolation requirement. The method includes pairing signal pairs substantially diagonally in accordance with the pattern.
US08555224B2	Circuit simulation method and semiconductor integrated circuit The present disclosure provides a method of performing circuit simulation of electrical characteristics of a transistor formed on a semiconductor substrate using calculators, each of which includes a memory. A first calculator receives mask layout data and distance-dependent data indicating a distance from the target transistor. Then, a second calculator calculates an area ratio of a layout pattern of a predetermined mask from the received mask layout data, and calculates a parameter α based on the area ratio and the distance-dependent data. Then, the second calculator B calculates a change ΔP in the electrical characteristics of the transistor based on the parameter α. This configuration provides highly accurate circuit simulation of the electrical characteristics of the transistor, which depend on variations in temperature distribution of the semiconductor substrate during heat treatment due to the mask layout pattern around the transistor.
US08555219B2	Identifying hierarchical chip design intellectual property through digests One method implementation disclosed includes detecting matching leaf cells that are functionally identical (optionally, functionally similar) and assigning matching names for the matching leaf cells to replace original, non-matching names. Optionally, digests can be calculated for the leaf cells and used to detect similarities and/or differences. The matching names are propagated to at least some higher-level cells in the hierarchical design, in place of the original names. The method can further include calculating digests for at least some of the higher level cells after the propagating of the matching names into the higher level cells. Various design matching technologies can be used in combination with cell renaming and new name propagation, not limited to use of digests. Dependency chains can be calculated to improve propagation of names through the hierarchy.
US08555214B2	Technique for analyzing a reflective photo-mask During a calculation technique, contributions to reflected light from multiple discrete cells in a model of a multilayer stack in a reflective photo-mask may be determined based on angles of incidence of light in a light pattern to the multilayer stack, a polarization of the light in the light pattern, and a varying intensity of the light in the light pattern through the multilayer stack. Then, phase values of the contributions to the reflected light from the multiple discrete cells are adjusted, thereby specifying optical path differences between the multiple discrete cells in the multilayer stack that are associated with the defect. Moreover, the contributions to the reflected light from multiple discrete cells are combined to determine the reflected light from the multilayer stack. Next, k-space representations of the contributions to the reflected light from the multiple discrete cells are selectively shifted based on the angles of incidence.
US08555213B1	Efficient decomposition of layouts Described herein are methods and systems for efficiently preparing a wafer layout for processing into a photomask. Portions of layouts containing semiconductor features and designs that are frequently used can be stored in a database. These portions can be post-decomposition, with all treatment and error checking already performed upon them. When a wafer layout is received for processing into a photomask, the processing and decomposition time can be reduced by analyzing the layout, and replacing sections of the layout with the portions from the database that have already been decomposed and processed. As these sections no longer need to be decomposed, error checked, and treated, the processing time is greatly reduced, and photomasks can be made quicker and more efficiently.
US08555212B2	Manufacturability Techniques are disclosed for modifying an existing microdevice design to improve its manufacturability. With these techniques, a designer receives manufacturing criteria associated with data in a design. The associated design data then is identified and provided to the microdevice designer, who may choose to modify the design based upon the manufacturing criteria. In this manner, the designer can directly incorporate manufacturing criteria from the foundry in the original design of the microdevice.
US08555211B2	Mask making with error recognition A method of making a mask includes receiving an IC design layout from a designer, applying an logic operation (LOP) correction, performing an OPC correction, fracturing the modified data into a plurality of main features in an electron beam format, and sending the electron beam format data to a mask writer for a mask fabrication. An XOR operation is implemented into the method to check and verify if a pattern is lost during OPC modification and/or data fracture. A BACKBONE XOR operation is also implemented into the method for a plurality of main features with a critical dimension (CD) size smaller than the max OPC correction to check and verify if a small pattern feature is lost during OPC modification and/or data fracture for 45 nm and beyond semiconductor technologies.
US08555207B2	Enhanced input using recognized gestures Enhanced input using recognized gestures, in which a user's gesture is recognized from first and second images, and a representation of the user is displayed in a central region of a control that further includes interaction elements disposed radially in relation to the central region. The enhanced input also includes interacting with the control based on the recognized user's gesture, and controlling an application based on interacting with the control.
US08555201B2	Wireless communication device having deterministic control of foreground access of the user interface A wireless communication device that has one or more applications resident on a computer platform, a wireless communication interface, a display, and a user interface that, at least, appears on the display and through which a user of the wireless communication device interacts with the computer platform. The display is configured to be selectively controlled by the specific user interfaces of one or more applications resident on the computer platform, and the one or more applications and/or an arbiter that is resident on the computer platform will determine which user interface of the one or more applications resident on the computer platform controls the display based upon a predetermined criteria when the user interfaces compete for control of the display.
US08555199B2	System and method for user modification of metadata in a shell browser A system and method for user modification of metadata in a shell browser. A group of items and associated metadata values are displayed in a window of the shell browser. An edit control permits user modification of metadata values displayed in the window. The user can modify metadata associated with a welcome pane, a selected item, or multiple selected items. A data structure stored on one or more computer-readable media contains metadata associated with items displayed in a shell browser, including user modifiable metadata which is also displayed in the shell browser.
US08555195B2	Bookmark function for navigating electronic document pages A graphic user interface combines a position bar for moving between pages in a document and with a page bookmarking or referencing function. The position bar includes a selectable box that can be used to set a reference mark on a particular page of a document. The user interface also interprets input near the position bar to change the page to the page of the reference mark when the input is within a predefined range of the reference mark.
US08555190B2	Apparatus and method for optimizing maintenance and other operations of field devices in a process control system using user-defined device configurations A method includes receiving a request to access a field device and identifying a first device configuration associated with the field device. The first device configuration identifies (i) a subset of device parameters associated with the field device, (ii) a subset of device methods associated with the field device, and/or (iii) an interface arrangement of device parameters or methods associated with the field device. The method also includes retrieving a value for each device parameter identified by the first device configuration and generating a graphical user interface using the first device configuration and the retrieved values. The method could also include determining whether a user has requested use of the first device configuration. If not, the method can include identifying a second device configuration associated with the field device, retrieving the value for each device parameter identified by the second device configuration, and generating a second graphical user interface.
US08555188B2	Method of controlling devices using widget contents and remote controller performing the method Provided is a method of controlling devices by using a remote controller. The method includes downloading a widget program for the devices to the remote controller; generating control widget contents for controlling the devices using the widget program; displaying the control widget contents for controlling the devices at the remote controller; and controlling one of the devices according to a control command of a user that is input by using the displayed control widget contents.
US08555184B2	Method of interacting with a scrollable area on a portable electronic device A method of interacting with a scrollable area on a portable electronic device is described. In accordance with one embodiment, there is provided a method of interacting with a portable electronic device having a touch-sensitive display, the method comprising: displaying a user interface screen having a scrollable area on the touch-sensitive display; and displaying a transparent scrollbar which overlays elements of the user interface screen when a touch event is detected in a display area corresponding to the scrollable area.
US08555179B2	Mobile communication terminal having touch screen and method of controlling the same A mobile communication terminal having a camera module and a touch screen is provided. The mobile communication terminal transmits and receives text data while performing the video call with at least one other party's terminal. The touch screen displays at least one images when the text data transmission and reception function is started, an input window for displaying text data input through the touch screen, an output window for displaying the transmitted and received text data, and at least one soft key, and a controller for controlling, when the input window or one of the at least one soft key is selected, the touch screen for changing a display method of at least one of the first image, the second image, the input window, the output window, and the at least one soft key and for displaying a touch pad comprising a plurality of keys for inputting text data.
US08555178B2	Enhancements to unified communications and messaging systems Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer program products, for handling a plurality of communications between parties. In an aspect, the presentation of both real-time and “store and forward” interactions are presented in a way to make it easier for a user of the system to read and understand what is being communicated, by whom, and to whom.
US08555177B1	Real-time interaction during video viewing Community interaction during video viewing is provided. A video hosting website includes videos available for viewing. Users establish lists of friends, who are other users of the video hosting site. When a user logs on, her presence is made known by an interaction engine to her friends that are also logged in to the site. The user's activities are tracked and her friends are notified of those activities. Tracked activities may include viewing a video, rating a video, commenting on a video, uploading a video to the site, and adding a new friend. Friends are notified of these activities in one embodiment through one or more user interface elements. A user can select a user interface element to discover which of her friends are also watching the same video at that time. A user watching a video can summon her online friends to the watch page to watch collaboratively.
US08555176B2	Third party menus for enabling collaboration The claimed subject matter can provide an architecture and various mechanism whereby a communication client can facilitate a more robust collaboration experience. The communication client can provide configurable menus for launching third-party resources locally and transmitting resource invites to remote entities along with appropriate information to enable the remote entities to launch the resource locally as well. The architecture can provide for peer-to-peer collaboration sessions as well as server directed collaboration sessions.
US08555173B2	Recommendation engine Determining an item to present to a first user is disclosed. Preference information is received that comprises the preferences of a plurality of users associated with one or more items. User correlations are determined from the received preference information. For the first user, a set of other users most correlated with the first user is determined. One or more items are presented to the first user based at least in part on the preferences of the other users.
US08555171B2	Portable virtual human-machine interaction device and operation method thereof A portable virtual input control device and a method thereof are provided, which can achieve a purpose of human-machine interaction and remote control. The portable virtual input control device comprises a main body, an operation interface display unit connected to the main body, an image capturing module adjacent to the main body, and a central processing module, built in the main body. The operation interface display unit is movably disposed in front of a head of the user for displaying an operation interface corresponding to a controlled device. The image capturing module captures a position image of a hand of the user outside the operation interface display unit. The central processing module transmits display data to the operation interface display unit to display the operation interface, and connected to the image capturing module for receiving the position image of the hand of the user captured by the image capturing module, and determining a control command input by the user according to the display data and the position image of the hand of the user.
US08555170B2	Tool for presenting and editing a storyboard representation of a composite presentation Some embodiments provide a storyboard tool for displaying and editing a storyboard representation of a set of clips that forms a composite presentation in a media-editing application. For the set of clips in a composite display area, the tool displays a set of thumbnails corresponding to the clips in a storyboard display area. Each thumbnail in the storyboard display area respectively represents a particular clip of the composite presentation and is respectively associated with the particular clip in the composite display area. The tool allows a user to visualize the entire context of the composite presentation as a storyboard representation of the clips in the composite display area. Some embodiments provide for non-destructive editing that modify the order of the thumbnails in the storyboard display area without affecting the clips in the composite display area. The storyboard tool can synchronize the edited order of clips to the composite display area.
US08555168B2	Method and device for composing a menu Multimedia content of exchangeable storage media, such as optical discs, may be extended by bonus content that is downloaded via Internet connection and stored on a local storage device. An improved method for integration of different menu items relating to on-disc content and downloaded content provides flexibility and a simple, low cost solution. The method for integration of downloaded bonus content into a menu comprises defining one or more placeholders within a menu, determining a storage location or naming convention for bonus content, declaring for each placeholder an attribute providing a unique association to a specific type of bonus content, providing a button image, detecting presence of bonus content data, replacing the associated placeholder by the associated button image and enabling an associated action to be taken when said button is selected.
US08555166B2	Dynamic hyperlinking approach A method of returning target scenes from a user link request is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of: receiving a user link request on a user interface; comparing the received user link request to a plurality of entries in a lookup table; for each entry in the plurality of entries in the lookup table that matches the received user link request, identifying a target scene that corresponds to the matched entry in the lookup table; determining a closest one of the target scenes if multiple entries in the lookup table match the user link request; and transitioning to the closest target scene.
US08555161B2	Concurrent editing of a document by multiple clients A first computing device opens a local copy of a document. The first computing device updates the local copy of the document to reflect a remote change. The remote change is a change made to a remote copy of the document by a user of a second computing device. The first computing device also updates the local copy of the document to reflect a local change. The local change is a change made to the local copy of the document by a user of the first computing device. The first computing device is able to concurrently update the local copy to reflect the local change and the remote change.
US08555156B2	Inferring that a message has been read A technique for inferring whether a message has been read includes the following: identifying at least part of a message that is in a viewport of a computing device, determining a value that is based on the at least part of the message, comparing the value to a threshold, tracking an amount of time that the at least part of the message is in the viewport if the value meets or exceeds the threshold, and inferring whether the message has been read based on the amount of time.
US08555154B2	Flexible methods for creating photobooks A method for producing a photo album includes providing a plurality of images comprising a first image, associating text information with the first image, and providing a library of page layouts each comprising one or more image receiving areas. A page layout includes an image caption area associated with one of the image receiving areas in the page layout. After the step of associating, the method includes automatically selecting a first page layout from the library of page layouts, wherein the first page layout comprises an image receiving area and an image caption area in association with the image receiving area, automatically placing the first image in the image receiving area in the first page layout, and automatically placing the text information into the image caption area in association with the image receiving area in the first page layout to produce a page in the photo album.
US08555153B2	Determining a form with which print data is outputted, according to conditions on fields of the print data An image processing apparatus includes: an image processing part that performs an image processing operation for print data having at least one field; and a controller that controls the image processing part to output the print data with a print form corresponding to a condition if the field of the print data satisfies the condition.
US08555152B2	Document management system and its method An electronic pasting method for pasting electronic data in consideration of printed and written data, including updating pasted data when electronic data is updated after it is pasted. The electronic pasting method uses a detecting unit and a paste information updating unit. The detecting unit detects a paste stroke made over two print sheets filled to denote a user's pasting action with which part or whole of a printed matter of electronic document information is pasted on printed matter, then detects the pasting action from a set of paste strokes, thereby obtaining a paste-from document, a paste-to document, and a paste position according to the pasting action detected by the detecting unit. The paste information updating unit updates the e-document, the printed matter information, and the written information according to the above paste information.
US08555149B2	Systems and methods for protecting DSL systems against impulse noise Systems and methods for protecting DSL systems against impulse noise are provided. Disclosed herein are example embodiments of a retransmission technique located above the gamma interface (i.e., in the network processing layer). Such a retransmission technique can be combined with standard RS coding with standard erasure-decoding & triangular interleaving at the PMS-TC layer. Example embodiments of the technique involve using the RS code to protect against REIN noise, and using γ-layer retransmission for protecting against error events not corrected by the RS code, e.g. a SHINE noise in the presence of REIN. Both techniques are used jointly in the case of combined REIN and SHINE noise.
US08555147B2	DTV transmitting system and receiving system and method of processing broadcast data A digital television transmitting system includes a pre-processor, a packet generator, an RS encoder, and a trellis encoder. The pre-processor pre-processes enhanced data by coding the enhanced data for first forward error correction and expanding the FEC-coded enhanced data. The packet generator generates enhanced data packets including the pre-processed enhanced data and main data packets and multiplexes the enhanced and main data packets. Each enhanced data packet includes an adaptation field in which the pre-processed enhanced data are inserted. The RS encoder performs RS encoding on the multiplexed data packets for second forward error correction, and the trellis encoder performs trellis encoding on the RS-coded data packets.
US08555146B2	FEC streaming with aggregation of concurrent streams for FEC computation Transmitters and receivers deal with streams of data, wherein the receiver is expected to begin using received data before receiving all of the data. Concurrent streams are sent and FEC coding is used with the streams and done as an aggregate. The transmitter performs FEC operations over the plurality of streams, wherein source blocks from at least two streams logically associated into a jumbo source block and FEC processing is performed to generate one or more jumbo repair block from the jumbo source block. Each of the source blocks comprises one or more source symbols from their respective stream. The jumbo source symbols can be of constant size and are suitably aligned along size boundaries that make processing efficient. Each source symbol need not be the same size, and the number of source symbols from each stream in a jumbo source block need not be the same value across streams.
US08555143B2	Flash memory controller and the method thereof A flash memory controller comprises a flash memory interface controller, a host interface controller, a random-access memory (RAM) interface controller, an ECC encoder, an ECC divider, an ECC constructor and an ECC decoder. The ECC encoder is configured to receive a write information datum from the host interface controller and generate an ECC datum. The ECC divider is configured to divide the generated ECC datum into a plurality of ECC segments. The ECC constructor is configured to receive a plurality of ECC segments from the flash memory interface controller and construct an ECC datum. The ECC decoder is configured to correct errors of a read information datum based on a read information datum and the constructed ECC datum and forward the corrected read information datum to the host interface controller when operated in a read mode.
US08555137B2	Method and system for reducing volatile DRAM power budget A portable device (114) includes a power source (120), a volatile memory (118) requiring refreshing to avoid data loss, and a memory management module (116). The volatile memory (118) is operably coupled to the power source (120) for power. The memory management module (116) is operably coupled to the volatile memory (118). The memory management module (116) is also adapted to refresh the volatile memory (118) at a refresh rate which causes refresh-based errors and to correct the refresh-based errors. Also disclosed is a method for reduced power consumption by a volatile memory requiring refreshing to avoid data loss in which such a volatile memory is refreshed (122) at a refresh rate. All defective bits are detected (124) at the refresh rate. An error correction code is selected (126) for correcting the defective bits.
US08555136B2	Optimized decoding in a receiver A receiver includes a decoder configured to decode at least a portion of a data stream comprising a data frame. The data frame includes a code block having a data block and a parity block. The receiver also includes a controller. The controller is configured to determine whether to disable at least a portion of the receiver during transmission of the parity block to the receiver when the data block contains at least one erasure.
US08555132B2	Modification of error statistics behind equalizer to improve inter-working with different FEC codes This invention relates to a receiver circuit which comprises an equalizer (27) and an error decorrelator (25). The error decorrelator being configured for changing (501; 601, 602) the position of symbols. The invention further relates to a corresponding method. This invention finally relates to an interleaving or deinterleaving method which comprises selecting a first number of symbols (204; 302) within a stream of digital data (13; 28) thereby obtaining selected symbols. The method further comprises exchanging (601, 602) the position of at least half of said first number of symbols of said selected symbols with the position of other symbols from said selected symbols. The invention further relates to an interleaving or deinterleaving circuit.
US08555130B2	Storing encoded data slices in a dispersed storage unit A method begins by a processing module receiving a write request that includes a batch of encoded data slices and a corresponding batch of slice names, wherein the batch of encoded data slices includes encoded data slices that have slices names that have a common data object storage name, a common slice storage name, and a different data segment storage name. The method continues with the processing module determining whether a storage file exists based on the common data object storage name. The method continues with the processing module creating the storage file based on the common data object storage name when the storage file does not exist. The method continues with the processing module storing the batch of encoded data slices in the storage file based on the corresponding batch of slice names.
US08555126B2	Activation of semi-persistent resource allocations in a mobile communication network The invention relates to a method for allocating radio resources to a mobile terminal for data transmission in a mobile communication system as performed by a mobile terminal and a base station, respectively. Moreover, the invention relates to a mobile terminal and a base station to perform such method, as well as an implementation of the method in software. The invention further provides a mobile communication system in which radio resources are allocated to a mobile terminal for uplink transmission. In order to avoid false activation of a semi-persistent resource allocation the invention defines new conditions under which a mobile terminal activates a semi-persistent resource allocation. Unlike for example in prior-art systems, a mobile terminal only activates a semi-persistent resource allocation, if it can confirm the activation command received from the access network. Preferably, the activation command and its confirmation are resource assignments.
US08555119B2	Test structure for characterizing multi-port static random access memory and register file arrays A test structure for characterizing a production static random access memory (SRAM) array. The test structure includes a characterization circuit having multiple memory cell columns connected in series to form a ring configuration. The characterization circuit is fabricated on a wafer substrate in common with and proximate to a production SRAM array. The characterization circuit preferably includes SRAM cells having a circuit topology substantially identical to the circuit topology of memory cells within the production SRAM array. In one embodiment, the test structure is utilized for characterizing a multi-port memory array and includes multiple memory cell columns connected in series to form a ring oscillator characterization circuit. Each cell column in the characterization circuit includes multiple SRAM cells each having a latching node and multiple data path access nodes. Selection control circuitry selectively enables the multiple data path access nodes for the SRAM cells within the characterization circuit.
US08555115B2	Data consistency in long-running processes Long running computer implemented processes are dynamically adapted to improve data consistency. A range of process steps in a long running computer implemented process is specified. Additionally, each of the computer-implemented process partners that are associated with the execution of the long running process are identified within the range of specified process steps. Monitoring information is also collected with regard to at least one identified process partner. An automatic determination is made as to whether each monitored process partner is available before initiating execution of the specified range of process steps in an instance of the long running computer implemented process and a flow of the long running computer implemented process is transformed based at least in part upon the determination as to whether each monitored process partner is available.
US08555112B2	Method and apparatus for estimating candidate cause A method for estimating a candidate cause in a failure occurred in an information processing apparatus by a computer, the method includes retrieving, by the computer, a first set of incident information from a data storage region on the basis of failure symptom data which is set on the computer, the data storage region storing incident information, each piece of the incident information including failure symptom data, first cause data of a positive judgment result of a cause in the failure, and second cause data of a negative judgment result of the cause in the failure, each of the first set including the failure symptom data identical to the set failure symptom data.
US08555108B2	Virtual disk drive system and method A disk drive system and method capable of dynamically allocating data is provided. The disk drive system may include a RAID subsystem having a pool of storage, for example a page pool of storage that maintains a free list of RAIDs, or a matrix of disk storage blocks that maintain a null list of RAIDs, and a disk manager having at least one disk storage system controller. The RAID subsystem and disk manager dynamically allocate data across the pool of storage and a plurality of disk drives based on RAID-to-disk mapping. The RAID subsystem and disk manager determine whether additional disk drives are required, and a notification is sent if the additional disk drives are required. Dynamic data allocation and data progression allow a user to acquire a disk drive later in time when it is needed. Dynamic data allocation also allows efficient data storage of snapshots/point-in-time copies of virtual volume pool of storage, instant data replay and data instant fusion for data backup, recovery etc., remote data storage, and data progression, etc.
US08555106B2	Data migration management apparatus and information processing system The present invention provides a data migration management apparatus that can easily create a re-execution task for re-executing an error-terminated data migration task, and also can increase the possibility of the re-execution task being successful. In a case where a data migration from a migration-source volume to a migration-destination volume fails, the management apparatus uses the information of the failed task to create a re-execution task. The management apparatus changes the configuration of a volume pair as necessary. The management apparatus manages the failed task in association with the re-execution task.
US08555101B2	PCI express enhancements and extensions A method and apparatus for enhancing/extending a serial point-to-point interconnect architecture, such as Peripheral Component Interconnect Express (PCIe) is herein described. Temporal and locality caching hints and prefetching hints are provided to improve system wide caching and prefetching. Message codes for atomic operations to arbitrate ownership between system devices/resources are included to allow efficient access/ownership of shared data. Loose transaction ordering provided for while maintaining corresponding transaction priority to memory locations to ensure data integrity and efficient memory access. Active power sub-states and setting thereof is included to allow for more efficient power management. And, caching of device local memory in a host address space, as well as caching of system memory in a device local memory address space is provided for to improve bandwidth and latency for memory accesses.
US08555093B2	Communication device and communication device control method Provided is a communication device for utilization in a communication network. The communication device includes a communication process section for controlling communications in the communication network, a battery for supplying power to the communication process section, a battery control section for controlling supplying of power to the battery, a sub-board temperature detection section for detecting temperature of a battery housing section, and a temperature control section for, (A) when charging of the battery is underway and the temperature detected by the sub-board temperature detection section is outside a predetermined first charging-temperature range, controlling the battery control section to halt the charging of the battery, and, (B) when supplying of power from the battery to the communication process section is underway and the temperature detected by the sub-board temperature detection section is outside a predetermined first discharging-temperature range, halting the supplying of power from the battery to the communication process section.
US08555092B2	Memory power supply control circuit A memory power supply control circuit includes a number of memory slots, a platform controller hub (PCH), a first synchronous rectification driver, a number of second synchronous rectification drivers, and a complex programmable logic device (CPLD). The PCH is connected to the memory slots. The first synchronous rectification driver maintains a working state at all time. The CPLD is connected between the PCH and the second synchronous rectification drivers. The CPLD receives information from the PCH to determine a number of used memory slots, and controls the working states of the second synchronous rectification drivers according to the number of used memory slots.
US08555087B2	Systems and methods for content playback and recording A method for content playback and recording may include using a computer to obtain media content from a recorded medium. Concurrently with obtaining the media content, the method may include reencrypting the encrypted media content using a secondary encryption key and storing the reencrypted media content in a storage device.
US08555086B2	Encrypting data on a non-volatile memory A non-volatile memory, such as a NAND memory, may be encrypted by reading source blocks, writing to destination blocks, and then erasing the source blocks. As part of the encryption sequence, a power fail recovery procedure, using sequence numbers, is used to reestablish a logical-to-physical translation table for the destination blocks.
US08555082B1	Securing external memory data The present disclosure includes apparatus, systems, digital logic circuitry and techniques relating to data encoding. A method performed by a system on a chip (SOC) includes receiving data to be output to a memory unit external to the SOC. Also a key for scrambling the received data is received. A proper subset of the key is identified and used to scramble the received data. The scrambled data is output to the memory unit external to the SOC.
US08555077B2	Determining device identity using a behavioral fingerprint Behavioral fingerprints hold gathered data related to users' interactions with a device or devices, inter alia. Behavioral fingerprints may be used to at least partially determine a level of accessibility of the device or of an aspect of the device for the user; provide a current status of a network-accessible user associated with the device; activate or deactivate functions, programs or features of the device; generate alerts regarding the user's interaction with the device; assist in identifying a current device as a device being currently used by a network-accessible user, etc. Behavioral fingerprints may include statistical calculations on social network collected data, user input, sensor-provided data as provided by GPS, accelerometers, microphones, cameras, timers, touch-panels, or other indication or combination of the foregoing, whether originating from the device or the network. Anomalous activity associated with the device may be detected without user intervention at least in part with behavioral fingerprints.
US08555066B2	Systems and methods for controlling access to encrypted data stored on a mobile device Encrypted data on mobile devices is protected by remotely storing a decryption key. In order to decrypt the encrypted data on the mobile device, the mobile device obtains the decryption key from an access control system that is remote from the mobile device. The access control system can control access to the encrypted data by controlling access to the decryption key. For example, the access control system can implement user authentication as a condition for providing the decryption key. Access to the encrypted data can also be controlled by withholding the decryption key where, for instance, a mobile device has been reported to be lost or stolen, or once an individual's access privilege has been revoked, or at certain times of the day.
US08555062B1	Protocol to prevent replay attacks on secured wireless transactions A system and method for preventing replay attacks on secure data transactions are provided. The method aspect of the invention comprises establishing a communicating coupling with an authorized device, receiving a signal from the device requesting a session identification number, generating the session identification number and communicating the session identification number to the device, receiving a signal from the device that comprises a request for secure data transmission and includes the session identification number and coupling the device communicatively to implement the secure data transaction provided the request is authorized based on the session identification number.
US08555061B2	Transparent code Assertions for elevated privilege associated with transparent code may be ignored, prohibited, or modified.
US08555058B2	Method of distributing group IDs in PLC network, method of receiving group IDs in PLC network, authentication apparatus, and PLC apparatus A method of distributing group identifiers IDs (GIDs) in a power line communication (PLC) network, a method of receiving the GIDs, an authentication apparatus, and a PLC apparatus are provided. The authentication apparatus includes: an authentication mode storing unit which stores an authentication mode having a value including one of an authentication authorized mode and an authentication unauthorized mode; a GID request receiver which receives a GID request message from a PLC apparatus; and a GID transmitter which, if the authentication mode is the authentication authorized mode, transmits a GID corresponding to the PLC apparatus to the PLC apparatus. Authentication is realized in a PLC media access control layer distributing the GIDs between a PLC apparatus and an authentication apparatus, so manually inputting a GID into the PLC apparatus is not necessary. Further, the GIDs are distributed via the authentication apparatus, thereby centrally managing the GIDs.
US08555055B2	Delegation model for role-based access control administration Role-based security architecture that facilitates delegated role assignments where role functionality is monotonically decreasing. In furtherance thereof decreasing monotonicity roles are arranged in a hierarchy. Moreover, delegated roles can be obtained by creating a derived role (from a parent role) and removing entries from the derived role to decrease the permissions for the derived role. Delegated role assignments are scoped (bounded), which automatically applies a given scope to the assignment created by the user receiving the delegation.
US08555047B2	Wi-Fi router with integrated touch-screen and enhanced security features A Wi-Fi router with an integrated configuration touch-screen, and method to use this integrated touch screen to provide enhanced security features. The Wi-Fi router, which has a wired or optical network interface, may be factory pre-configured with hard to anticipate passwords and encryption codes, thus making even its default Wi-Fi settings difficult to attack. Besides displaying interactive menus on the touch-screen, the router may also generate touch sensitive dynamic alphanumeric virtual keypads to enable administrators to interact with the device without the need of extra computers or software. Inexperienced administrators secure in the knowledge that they may access and change even difficult to remember security settings at any time through the built-in touch-screen controller and simplified user interface, are encouraged to set up secure Wi-Fi systems. The device may optionally include security software that, upon touch of a button, can provide new randomized or otherwise obfuscated router settings.
US08555046B2	Computer system and its HW abstraction method A computer system includes an ACPI (Advanced Configuration and Power Interface) that abstracts HWs (hardwares) as objects arranged on an ACPI tree which is a virtual space, an OS (Operating System) that recognizes a configuration of the HW through the ACPI, a virtual HW provided between the ACPI and HW and includes a memory area in which locations storing information for each HW are arranged in the same arrangement as the objects on the ACPI tree, and a BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) that previously refers to the HW and stores information for each HW in the memory area of the virtual HW at a location corresponding to the HW. The ACPI refers not directly to the HW but to the memory area of the virtual HW to obtain information for each HW, thereby allowing the OS to recognize the HW configuration from the information for each HW.
US08555044B2	System and method to lock electronic device A method to lock an electronic device comprising an operating system comprises placing the electronic device in a disable state in which the processor is blocked from accessing the operating system, receiving a first unlock password from a remote source during a power-up operation of the electronic device, and placing the electronic device in a temporary unlock state which allows the processor to boot the operating system for a predetermined period of time when the first unlock password matches a password stored in the electronic device. Other embodiments may be described.
US08555036B1	System and method for performing predicated selection of an output register A system includes a processor having an instruction register for storing an instruction having a predefined opcode, a predicate register for storing a predicate condition to select an output register for a result of the instruction, a first output register, and a second output register. The processor further includes processor circuitry operable to execute the instruction to produce a result, and processor circuitry operable to store the result of the instruction in the first output register if the predicate condition to select the output is true, and to store the second output register if the predicate condition to select the output is false. A single instruction is used to produce the result, and to store the result of the instruction.
US08555035B1	Conflict-free register allocation using a multi-bank register file with input operand alignment One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for using a multi-bank register file that reduces the size of or eliminates a switch and/or staging registers that are used to gather input operands for instructions. Each function unit input may be directly connected to one bank of the multi-bank register file with neither a switch nor a staging register. A compiler or register allocation unit ensures that the register file accesses for each instruction are conflict-free (no instruction can access the same bank more than once in the same cycle). The compiler or register allocation unit may also ensure that the register file accesses for each instruction are also aligned (each input of a function unit can only come from the bank connected to that input).
US08555034B2	Execution of variable width vector processing instructions A processing unit executes a vector width instruction in a program and the processing unit obtains and supplies the width of an appropriate vector register that will be used to process variable vector processing instructions. Then, when the processing unit executes variable vector processing instructions in the program, the processing unit processes the variable vector processing instructions using the appropriate vector register with the instructions having the same width as the appropriate vector register. The width that the processing unit obtains may be less than an actual width of the appropriate vector register and may set by the processing unit. In this way, many different vector widths can be supported using a single set of instructions for vector processing. New instructions are not required if vector widths are changed and processing units having vector registers of differing widths do not require different code.
US08555032B2	Microcontroller programmable system on a chip with programmable interconnect Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a microcontroller device having a microprocessor, programmable memory components, and programmable analog and digital blocks. The programmable analog and digital blocks are configurable based on programming information stored in the memory components. Programmable interconnect logic, also programmable from the memory components, is used to couple the programmable analog and digital blocks as needed. The advanced microcontroller design also includes programmable input/output blocks for coupling selected signals to external pins. The memory components also include user programs that the embedded microprocessor executes. These programs may include instructions for programming the digital and analog blocks “on-the-fly,” e.g., dynamically. In one implementation, there are a plurality of programmable digital blocks and a plurality of programmable analog blocks.
US08555031B2	Methods and apparatus for matrix decompositions in programmable logic devices A processor is adapted for performing a QR-decomposition. The processor has a program memory, a program controller, connected to the program memory to receive program instructions, and at least one processing unit. The processing unit includes a CORDIC calculation block, and has a distributed memory structure, with separate memory blocks for storing respective parameter values.
US08555028B2	Computer-readable, non-transitory medium storing memory access control program, memory access control method, and information processing apparatus A method of causing an information processing apparatus to execute, the method including: performing a management procedure to accept addresses of respective page tables generated for each of operation modes from an operating system that manages the virtual address space and to associate the addresses with the operating system to be recorded in page table correspondence information storage; executing a control procedure to set a second access right indicating a value lower than the first access right in accordance with the operation mode of the operating system; and processing a processing procedure to cause the memory management device to execute a flush of a translation look-aside buffer, and to set the second access right indicating a value for validating the first access right, wherein the memory management device performs a control on the memory access while the second access right is prioritized over the first access right.
US08555026B2	Methods and systems for storing variable width stack elements in a single memory stack A system and method for storing variable width stack elements in a single memory stack is disclosed. In one example embodiment a first variable width stack element is split into one or more sub-elements. The width of the sub-elements may be less than or equal to a width of the single memory stack. A first memory pointer is created for providing an address of a first read pointer in the single memory stack. The first read pointer may provide an address corresponding to a first sub-element of the first variable width stack element. The first sub-element is written in a first available location in the single memory stack. A write pointer of the single memory stack is incremented when the first sub-element is written to the first available location on the single memory stack. The steps of writing and incrementing are repeated for a next sub-element until all of the sub-elements are stored in the single memory stack.
US08555025B2	Selective device access control Methods, systems, and computer program products for selective device access control in a data storage system are provided. A method includes initializing a plurality of access groups associated with logical devices used to access the data storage system, each of the plurality of access groups corresponding to a range of the logical devices, pursuant to a mount of a logical volume of the data storage system, and binding an access group name of one the plurality of access groups to at least one of a metadata of the logical volume at a volume creation and a volume header of the logical volume, wherein the logical volume, once bound to the access group name, is granted access by those of the logical devices in a range of the logical devices corresponding to the one of the plurality of access groups.
US08555024B2	Integrating data from symmetric and asymmetric memory Data stored within symmetric and asymmetric memory components of main memory is integrated by identifying a first data as having access characteristics suitable for storing in an asymmetric memory component. The first data is included among a collection of data to be written to the asymmetric memory component. An amount of data is identified within the collection of data to be written to the asymmetric memory component. The amount of data is compared within the collection of data to a volume threshold to determine whether a block write to the asymmetric memory component is justified by the amount of data. If justified, the collection of data is loaded to the asymmetric memory component.
US08555019B2	Using a migration cache to cache tracks during migration Provided are a method, system, and computer program product for using a migration cache to cache tracks during migration. Indication is made in an extent list of tracks in an extent in a source storage subject to Input/Output (I/O) requests. A migration operation is initiated to migrate the extent from the source storage to a destination storage. In response to initiating the migration operation, a determination is made of a first set of tracks in the extent in the source storage indicated in the extent list. A determination is also made of a second set of tracks in the extent. The tracks in the source storage in the first set are copied to a migration cache, wherein updates to the tracks in the migration cache during the migration operation are applied to the migration cache. The tracks in the second set are copied directly from the source storage to the destination storage without buffering in the migration cache. The tracks in the first set are copied from the migration cache to the destination storage. The migration operation is completed in response to copying the first set of tracks from the migration cache to the destination storage and copying the second set of tracks from the source storage to the destination storage, wherein after the migration the tracks in the extent are located in the destination storage.
US08555017B2	In-place physical to virtual (P2V) migration of an existing operating system during installation of a new operating system A computing device, computer readable storage medium, and method for migration of a physical machine to a virtual machine are disclosed. The computing device executes an operating system installer and generates a virtual disk image at a temporary location. The computing device copies data from one or more existing partitions on a storage device to the virtual disk image, wherein the one or more existing partitions include an existing operating system and associated data. The virtual disk image is stored at a temporary location. The one or more existing partitions are then replaced with a new partition on the storage device. A new operating system is installed on the new partition. The virtual disk image is moved to the new partition from the temporary location. The virtual disk image can then be loaded into a virtual machine that runs on the new operating system.
US08555013B1	Method and system for memory protection by processor carrier based access control A method for memory protection in a multiprocessor system, involving receiving a request at a first carrier to perform a memory operation at a memory address, wherein the first carrier receives the request from a processor, determining by the first carrier whether the processor is permitted to access memory at the memory address using a carrier identification (ID) of a second carrier, wherein the second carrier is associated with a memory controller used to access the memory, and sending the request to the second carrier, if the processor is permitted to access the memory.
US08555012B2	Data storage apparatus A method for controlling a storage apparatus connectable to a server, the storage apparatus including a first storage area and a second storage area for storing data, the method comprises: copying the data stored in the first storage area into the second storage area; copying data stored in the location of the first storage area addressed by the command to be accessed by the server into the location of the second storage area before execution of the command when the storage apparatus receives a command for accessing data stored in a location of either of the first storage area and second storage area from the server; and executing the command for accessing at least one of the location in the first storage area and the corresponding location in the second storage area.
US08555010B2	Computer system and data backup method combining flashcopy and remote copy One embodiment provides a computer system and data backup method which enable improvements in the response performance of a storage apparatus to a write request from a host apparatus. In a case where, during execution of same intra-enclosure copy processing, a primary storage apparatus receives a write request in which the data write destination is a storage area in a target range for the same intra-enclosure copy processing in a first primary volume in the primary storage apparatus, the primary storage apparatus transmits an advance notification storing an address of a storage area in a secondary storage apparatus which corresponds to the data write destination storage area designated in the write request to the secondary storage apparatus such that an on-demand copy is executed based on the advance notification in the secondary storage apparatus.
US08555009B1	Method and apparatus for enabling and managing application input/output activity while restoring a data store A method and apparatus for enabling and managing application input/output activity in memory to restore a data store using one or more processors is disclosed. In one embodiments, the method includes processing a restoration request for a data store, wherein the data store is mirrored by another data store, controlling communication of application input/output activity associated with at least one host computer and directed to at least one of the data store or the other data store, restoring various portions of the data store, in accordance with the restoration request, using at least one of at least one prior point in time image or the other data store and servicing the application input/output activity using the data store.

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