Document Document Title
US08622349B2 Device for assisting the piloting of a rotorcraft
A device for assisting the piloting of a rotorcraft, the rotorcraft having a flight control (10) for controlling a rotor (20, 21) via at least one linkage (35. An additional force is generated by at least one piloting assistance means (100) mechanically linked to the linkage (35. The additional force is a function of the position of the flight control (10) and of an instantaneous force as measured on the linkage (35).
US08622344B2 Load path-optimized pivotable hatrack
The invention relates to a device for receiving baggage in a passenger cabin for aircraft, which device comprises a stowage compartment, also referred to as a “hatrack”, which stowage compartment is arranged above a seat row so as to be swivellable in longitudinal direction of the aircraft. The hatrack includes a single-part housing that forms a baggage receptacle. Starting from an open loading position, the housing is swivellable to a transport position or stowage position on a pivot axis that is arranged near the centre of gravity and that is associated with a bottom of the housing. For affixation of the hatrack the housing is connected to a structure of the aircraft fuselage, which structure is fixed to the aircraft, by means of an exterior frame.
US08622343B2 Aircraft grounding system
Liquid dispensing assemblies including adhesive anchoring assemblies configured to adhere to a support surface external to a device such as a vehicle. An air vehicle includes (a) a fluid adhesive container assembly detachably attached to the air vehicle, wherein the fluid adhesive container assembly comprises: (i) an adhesive container comprising fluid adhesive; and (ii) one or more fibers, wherein the one or more fibers are configured, or a brush of fibers, or a fabric of fibers, is configured to conduct the fluid adhesive and to structurally support an adhesive bond between the one or more fibers and a surface; and (b) means for dispensing the fluid adhesive from the fluid adhesive container, to the one or more fibers.
US08622341B2 Suspension rudder bar for an aircraft turbojet and a suspension with fan hanger provided therewith
A suspension rudder bar has the shape of a bar with a transversal axis (Y′Y), symmetrical with respect to a plane (PS) intersecting the rotation axis (X′X) of the engine, and includes links with transmission connecting rods between a rear casing for ejecting gases and a front casing hub of the fan, and a central link to a fastening fixation to an engine fastening pylon. The links of the rudder bar to the transmission connecting rods are arranged on the transversal ends of the rudder bar, and the rudder bar extends, perpendicularly to the axis of the bar (Y′Y), with spars over a sufficient portion and at a determined distance from the edges of the plate to act as an abutment to the plate in the case of a torsion around the central link or of a connecting rod breaking.
US08622337B2 Airship for transportation
An airship for facilitating transportation to and from one or more locations which are difficult to access or operate such as high above the ground level is disclosed. The airship can also be used in surface missions, The airship includes a cabin and a platform. The cabin is configured on a top portion of the airship. The platform is operatively connected to the cabin. The platform facilitates easy access to the cabin.
US08622335B2 Ducted fan VTOL vehicles
A vehicle including a fuselage having a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis, two Ducted Fan lift-producing propellers carried by the fuselage on each side of the transverse axis, a pilot's compartment formed in the fuselage between the lift-producing propellers and substantially aligned with one side of the fuselage, a payload bay formed in the fuselage between the lift-producing propellers and opposite the pilot's compartment, and two pusher fans located at the rear of the vehicle. Many variations are described enabling the vehicle to be used not only as a VTOL vehicle, but also as a multi-function utility vehicle for performing many diverse functions including hovercraft and ATV functions. Also described is an Unmanned version of the vehicle. Also described are unique features applicable in any single or multiple ducted fans and VTOL vehicles.
US08622332B2 Stretch film handle
An apparatus for dispensing a roll of material with one hand is disclosed that includes a shaft having a core segment for supporting a roll of material and a handle segment that is integral with the core segment. The handle segment has an annular recess with a collar received therein. The apparatus includes a gripper received over the handle segment of the shaft. The gripper has a cylindrically shaped body defining an open center that has an open upper end and a closed lower end. The gripper is positioned on the handle segment with its open upper end between the collar and the core segment. The shaft is rotatable relative to the gripper and the gripper is hand-compressible to bring the gripper into frictional contact with the shaft to slow or stop the rotation of the shaft.
US08622331B2 Gyratory cone crusher
A gyratory cone crusher 10 includes a support frame 12 having a vertical axis X and a receiving formation 14 mounted rigidly in the frame 12, a central vertical axis of the receiving formation 14 being in line with vertical axis X. A crushing head 16 is slideably engaged with the receiving formation 14 and has a first, upwardly presented conical crushing surface 18. A crushing bowl 20 having a second, downwardly presented funnel-shaped second crushing surface 22 spaced apart from the first crushing surface 18 is mounted above the crushing head 16. The crushing bowl 20 is mounted in an eccentric housing 24 so that a central axis Z of the crushing bowl 20 is positioned at an angle oblique to vertical axis X.
US08622328B2 Vertical roller mill
In a vertical roller mill in which a fixed-type cyclone sorter is provided in a casing, the fixed-type cyclone sorter includes a conical member; a fixed-blade entrance window through which a solid-gas two-phase flow is introduced into the interior of the conical member; a flat plate-like fixed blade that causes the solid-gas two-phase flow to spiral; an inner cylinder into which pulverized coal is guided from the bottom end thereof toward the top end thereof by means of spiraling of the solid-gas two-phase flow; and a pulverized-coal exit through which the pulverized coal guided to the top end of the inner cylinder is guided outside the conical member, wherein the fixed blade is provided with a tip portion where a downward flow is increased for the solid-gas two-phase flow guided into the interior of the conical member from the fixed-blade entrance window.
US08622326B2 Method and apparatus for processing an ore feed
A sizing roller screen apparatus and method for processing an ore feed that includes sized and oversize ore portions and is received at an inlet are disclosed. The apparatus includes a roller screen having a plurality of adjacent screening rollers with interstices therebetween for permitting passage of the sized ore portions, the adjacent screening rollers being rotatable to cause a first sized ore portion to pass through the interstices as while the ore feed is transported along the roller screen. The apparatus also includes a sizing roller disposed generally above an opposing one of the adjacent screening rollers, the sizing roller being rotatable to fragment at least some of the oversize ore portions passing between the sizing roller and the opposing screening roller to produce a second sized ore portion, the second sized ore portion being sized for passage between the interstices.
US08622322B2 Dispensing apparatus
A liquid dispensing apparatus includes a container having a compressible section and a tip section extending from the compressible section. The compressible section is compressible in response to actuation. The dispensing apparatus further includes a nozzle member coupled to the container that includes an orifice. Finally, the dispensing apparatus includes a fluidic channel providing fluid communication between the volume and the orifice that includes a spin chamber for imparting a spinning motion to the liquid to atomize the liquid prior to urging the liquid out of the orifice.
US08622319B2 Automatic air-assisted manifold mounted gun
A coating material dispensing device includes a first component providing a connection to a source of coating material to be dispensed and a filter for filtering coating material to be dispensed. The first component includes a housing for housing the filter and a closure for selectively closing the housing to permit removal and replacement of the filter. The coating material dispensing device further includes a second component providing a nozzle through which the coating material is dispensed. The first and second components include first and second passageways, respectively. The first and second passageways communicate when the first and second components are assembled together to provide a flow of filtered coating material from the filter to the nozzle.
US08622316B2 SCR-injection unit
An SCR-injection unit includes an injector, a sleeve element for fixing the injector to a flange of an exhaust gas pipe, and a cooling body. According to the invention, the sleeve element has an elongated thin-walled connecting section, one axial end of which is indirectly connected to the flange of the exhaust gas pipe and the other axial end of which is indirectly connected to a supporting structure for the injector.
US08622314B2 Smart-home device that self-qualifies for away-state functionality
A thermostat, includes a housing and an occupancy sensor that is disposed within the housing and configured to detect physical presences of users within a responsive area of the occupancy sensor. The thermostat may also include a processing system that is disposed within the housing and in operative communication with the occupancy sensor. The processing system may be configured to determine, after a trial period, whether to activate an away-state feature by storing indications of how often the occupancy sensor detected physical presences during the trial period, computing an occupancy level for the trial period, comparing the occupancy level to a threshold criterion, determining whether sufficiently true indications of occupancy conditions were sensed by the occupancy sensor during the trial period, and enabling the away-state feature of the thermostat if it is determined that the sufficiently true indications of occupancy conditions were sensed during the trial period.
US08622313B1 Near field communications device
The present application relates to a near field communications (NFC) device having an antenna which is coupled to a load. When in the presence of an active NFC reader or similar device, the antenna generates an electromotive force (EMF), which serves as an input signal to the load. A variable potential divider is included to vary the voltage of the input signal to the load, so that if a potentially damaging over-voltage condition exists the voltage of the input signal to the load can be reduced to a safe level. The variable potential divider may be composed of an effective source impedance and an effective impedance of the load, and the impedance of the impedance matching network may be variable by means of a variable capacitance and/or a variable resistance.
US08622312B2 Method and apparatus for interfacing with a smartcard
A device may be configured such that a smartcard may be physically mounted in, on, and/or to the device. The device may comprise one or more circuits that enable communicating over a far-field communication link and that enable communicating with a smartcard when the smartcard is physically mounted in, on, and/or to the device. The far-field communication link may be an ISO 18000-7 link. The device may communicate with a smartcard via contacts and/or via near-field communications. The device may be operable to relay data between a near-field communication link between the device and a smartcard and a far-field communication link between the device and another device. The device may be generally rectangular in shape, less than one centimeter thick, than one centimeter longer than an ISO 7816 compliant smartcard, and less than one centimeter wider than an ISO 7816 compliant smartcard.
US08622309B1 Payment cards and devices with budgets, parental controls, and virtual accounts
A payment card is provided with a display. A user may enter budget amounts and budget expiration dates into a card. Such information may be communicated via a dynamic magnetic stripe communications device such that future purchases adhere to the budget amount and budget expiration date attributes set by a user. Users may set budget information for other users. For example, a parent may set budget information for a child.
US08622305B2 Efficient multi-image bar code reader
An efficient multicamera imaging-based bar code reader for imaging a target bar code on a target object. An imaging system has a plurality of camera assemblies coupled to an image processing system. Each camera assembly includes a sensor array and an imaging lens assembly for focusing a field of view of the camera assembly onto a sensor array as well as including one or more light emitting diodes for illuminating a field of view of that camera assembly. One camera is activated or energized to detect an object and then all cameras are activated for generating images suitable to decode a bar code on the detected object.
US08622303B2 Decoding utilizing image data
The invention relates to decoding utilizing image data. The image data can be received from a source. A processor can process the image data for decoding. A processing for decoding can be responsive to determined information.
US08622302B2 Systems and methods for compensating for fixed pattern noise
This disclosure relates generally to systems and methods for estimating and, at least partially, compensating for fixed pattern noise (FPN) in an image sensor. In one configuration, an estimate of the FPN of an image sensor may be obtained by capturing a dark image (either a linear or an area image, depending on the sensor type) using a first exposure time, an illuminated image may be captured using a second exposure time, the second exposure time is greater than the first exposure time, and the dark image may be subtracted from the illuminated image to compensate, at least partially, for FPN. Certain configurations may utilize virtual scan lines. Two or more dark images may also be utilized to estimate FPN in an image sensor.
US08622296B2 Magnetic stripe card reader assembly and method
A magnetic stripe card reader assembly and method includes a panel having portions defining a card entry opening of a card entry path provided for receiving a magnetic stripe card with the magnetic stripe disposed perpendicular to the card entry path. A card swipe path in communication with the card entry path is provided for swiping the card with the magnetic stripe disposed parallel to the card swipe path, and a magnetic stripe read head is disposed proximate the card swipe path for reading only a pre-determined segment of the magnetic stripe. The panel is also provided with portions defining a card withdrawal opening of a card withdrawal path in communication with the card swipe path and partly overlapping the card entry opening for withdrawal of the card with the magnetic stripe disposed perpendicular to the card withdrawal path.
US08622294B1 Method and apparatus for electronically organizing transport documents
A system and apparatus is provided for managing the collection, preparation, and storage of shipping documentation. According to a preferred embodiment, the present invention includes multiple sensors, a processing system and a control unit for organizing and transporting shipping documents for multiple shipments in a real-time tracking system. The shipping document management system of the present invention travels and arrives with the actual shipment and allows the user to collect information and produce documents for viewing, scanning, transmitting and/or printing. The present invention may function as a universal open architecture envelope capable of linking to existing container sensor systems.
US08622290B2 Multiple rate currency consolidator
A multiple currency rate consolidator addresses the needs of multi-national companies that do business in different currencies and tax localities. A consolidated view of financial data may be provided in real time. The multiple currency rate consolidator allows each subsidiary within a subsidiary hierarchy to enter and manage transactional data as well as budget/forecast data in a corresponding localized functional currency. The multiple currency rate consolidator allows different consolidation levels to view localized, consolidated values of subsidiary transactions. The multiple currency rate consolidator also accommodates statutory, ad hoc and management reporting consolidation using different subsidiary configurations for the same time periods, as well as the versioning of the subsidiary hierarchy to accommodate structural changes across different time periods.
US08622277B2 Apparatus for welding a flange of a guide thimble tube in nuclear fuel assembly
Disclosed therein are an apparatus for and a method of automatically welding a flange to a guide thimble tube in a nuclear fuel assembly. The automatic welding apparatus includes: a welding part located on an axially conveying line of a tube for welding a welded surface of the tube inserted thereinto and a welded surface of a flange; a flange supplying part for supplying the flange at a tube inlet of the welding part onto the axially conveying line; and a conveying part mounted on the axially conveying line in such a way as to move the tube and the flange on the axially conveying line, so that they are inserted into and drawn from the welding part.
US08622274B2 Motorized cutting and fastening instrument having control circuit for optimizing battery usage
A surgical cutting and fastening instrument. The instrument comprises an end effector and a shaft connected to the end effector. The shaft comprises a drive train for powering the end effector. The instrument also comprises a handle connected to the shaft. The handle comprises an electric, DC motor connected to the drive train for powering the drive train and a DC power source comprising one or more batteries. The handle also comprises a power regulator having an input connected to the DC power source and an output connected to an input of the motor. The power regulator comprises a power converter and a control circuit for controlling the power converter. The control circuit controls the voltage set point for the power converter so that voltage delivered from the power source is less than the voltage at which the power source delivers maximum power.
US08622268B2 Structural support member for a harness for breathing apparatus
A structural support member 10 for a harness 100 for breathing apparatus, the structural support member being generally elongate and arranged in use to support a cylinder of breathable gas, the structural support member comprising: a frame having; a lower portion 11 arranged in use to support a first end of a cylinder; an upper portion arranged in use to support a second opposed end of the cylinder; and first and second side limbs 26, 36 coupling the upper and lower portions and defining a void 14 therebetween, in a substantially central region of the frame.
US08622267B2 Vehicle receiver hitch supported lockable sporting equipment carrier
A vehicle receiver hitch supported lockable sporting equipment carrier provides a receiver hitch beam, structurally carrying an upwardly extending vertical beam. A horizontal support beam is structurally carried by the vertical beam, at an end portion opposite the receiver hitch beam. The horizontal support beam defines an axial channel extending therethrough for releasable engagement with a locking bar. The locking bar has one leg that releasably engages with the axial channel defined in the horizontal support beam, and a second leg that releasably engages with a hole defined in the vertical beam, spacedly adjacent the horizontal support beam. A lock hasp hole defined in an end portion of the locking bar provides for engagement of a lock.
US08622266B2 Load carrying system for motor vehicles
A load carrier has a flat tray-like body that attaches to a vehicle by load bars. Multiple components may be installed on the tray body in many locations on the tray body, for containing and/or supporting cargo. One component is a cargo container that is captured and locked in one of several possible positions on the tray body. Other components are cargo posts that include one or more upending towers for supporting cargo by capturing generally vertical portions of the cargo between the towers, wherein the cargo posts may be non-pivotal, pivotal, slidable and/or adjustable. Another component is a hooked or curved depending assembly that suspends cargo from the edges of the tray body.
US08622264B2 Container holder with fasteners
One design embodiment of a holder for a container comprising: one or more bands each capable of retaining a container inside the band(s), with straps attached to and extending away from the exterior of the band(s); with fasteners on the ends of each strap such that container within the band or bands are held in a stable position relative to a harness to be worn by a user. The design embodiment allows easy attachment, use and deployment of containers in a variety of environmental conditions and situational uses, including but not limited to the carrying of gas supplies for underwater divers.
US08622262B2 Hydration system
The invention is a hydration system that is worn on a user's arm. The system has a flexible sleeve that is conical or forms a conical sleeve that fits a person's forearm. A bladder, made of a pliable material, attaches to the sleeve, and has a number of expandable ribs. The bladder is for holding water or liquid for drinking. The bladder can be flat and folds with the sleeve to form a gently tapering form. A frame secures the bladder to the sleeve. A cap is detachably connected to an opening of the bladder, and a drinking straw allows a user to withdraw water from the bladder.
US08622260B2 Multi-phase oral composition dispenser with adjustable flow
A flow control device for dispensing a multi-phase oral composition. The device includes a housing, a restrictor and an insert that fits within and cooperates with the housing and restrictor to dispense the oral composition. A flowpath is formed in and around the insert, as well as in the housing such that the composition passes through one or more channels defined by the cooperative arrangement of the insert and housing. Changes in relative position between the insert and the housing facilitate selective alignment of the various channels with a discharge orifice formed in the housing such that a user can vary the way the proportions of discreet fluids making up the oral composition are dispensed through said orifice.
US08622259B2 Electrical valve control device
The electrical valve control device contains a cover member and a base member joined together. A motor is joined to the cover member's outer surface, and its axle configured with an axial gear threads through the cover member. A transmission gear having a track engages the axial gear. A valve assembly has a nozzle, a plug tube, and a channel connected to the plug tube at one end. The other end of the channel is an open end and is in the same space as the nozzle. A cover piece is positioned in front of the open end of the channel, and is joined to a first end of a shaft threading through a helical spring. A second end of the shaft is connected to an end of a lever. A pin is extended from the second end of the lever and is embedded in the transmission gear's track.
US08622256B2 Actuator for spray container with restraint structure
Actuator apparatus for spray containers and methods of manufacturing actuator apparatus for spray containers. The actuator apparatus includes a cover having a restraint structure, e.g., locatable below an aperture portion of a push button of a base, to restrict the push button from depression by a user when the actuator apparatus is in a locked position.
US08622252B2 Personal care composition foaming product and foaming dispenser
A manually-actuable, non-aerosol dispenser to be used with a personal care composition having a relatively higher viscosity that gives a desired foamed composition generated from a manually-actuable, non-aerosol dispenser.
US08622244B2 Dispensing assembly comprising a cartridge with bag
A dispensing assembly includes a double cartridge having two storage containers with bags placed therein, a mixer that is connectable to the cartridge, and an opening device acting upon the bag. The opening device is arranged on the mixer housing and rotatable with respect to the cartridge and has a cutting member including two knife-edges that acts essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bags within the cartridge. Due to the knife-edges being rotatable and arranged laterally with respect to the bags, the cutting member allows a clean and predetermined opening of the bags and a dispensing operation with minimum pressure losses and lost volumes.
US08622243B2 Photochromic optically keyed dispenser
A removable and replaceable keying component which is required for operation of a mechanism and which component includes a waveguide having a photochromic portion. A method of controlling operation of a mechanism, preferably a dispenser, having a removable component comprising the steps of measuring electromagnetic radiation passing through a waveguide carrying at least in part on the removable component and permitting operation of the mechanism only when the measured electromagnetic radiation corresponds with one or more pre-selected parameters. Preferably, the method involves directing emitted electromagnetic radiation with pre-selected input parameters selected from a plurality of input parameters.
US08622242B2 Taggant keying system for dispensing systems
A dispensing system with an electronic keying mechanism, the dispenser including a housing and a refill unit. The refill unit includes a product reservoir, a pump mechanism and a collar adapted to secure the refill unit within the housing. An infrared sensor is provided in the housing and includes an infrared radiation source and a detector. A taggant is dispersed within at least a portion of the collar, the taggant being detectable by the detector when exposed to infrared radiation.
US08622241B2 Dispenser
For a dispenser (1) comprising the components of a reservoir (5) having a plurality of compartments (6), and a positioning disc (16) having a plurality of exit orifices (15), a solution shall be provided which allows realizing such a dispenser in a smaller sized configuration and which allows to dispense capsules or pills stored therein in a unit dose manner. This is achieved by additionally providing the component of a guiding member (56, 56a) being rotatably arranged in between the reservoir (5) and the positioning disc (16) and respectively connecting one compartment (6) with one dedicated exit orifice (15) in dispensing communication by accomplishing a rotary/rotational step.
US08622238B1 Rotatable pull-tab assembly
A rotatable pull-tab assembly for a beverage container having a handle member which is displaceable from a storage position to a seal plate opening position, a seal plate opener which causes a seal plate of a beverage container to open upon displacement of the handle member, and a cover plate member which substantially covers an opening of a beverage container when the rotatable pull-tab assembly is in a closed position.
US08622235B2 Insulated container and insert
The insulated container and insert are formed of relatively soft and flexible panels having relatively thick cores of thermal insulation captured between thin impervious sheets. The outer container has a closable top, and the insert has an open top. The insert is about half the height of the outer container, allowing ice or other cooling material, beverage cans and/or bottles, etc., to be placed in the bottom of the outer container with the insert resting thereon for the carriage of food therein. As the outer bottom surface of the insert will be moist from contact with ice or the like therebelow, the outer container includes a drop down panel that may be lowered for placement of the insert thereon to preclude contamination of the bottom of the insert with loose sand or the like. Additional carrying handles and straps are provided, as well as outer pockets on the outer container.
US08622229B2 Beverage bottle and lid with back button release and button lock
A drink bottle with a removable lid includes an inner lid attached to the mouth of the bottle and an outer lid pivotably mounted to said inner lid. A drink spout extends from the inner lid. The outer lid may be latched into a closed position covering the drink spout. A push button can be selectively actuated to release the latched outer lid, permitting the outer lid to open to access the drink spout. The push button moves a lid slide containing a catch extension that engages a catch notch in the outer lid to latch the outer lid closed. Actuating the push button moves the catch extension out of engagement with the catch notch, thereby opening the outer lid. A push button lock selectively prevents the push button from being depressed and the lid slide from being actuated, thereby locking the outer lid in a latched and closed position.
US08622228B2 Boom hoist transportation system and crane using same
A mobile lift crane includes a boom pivotally mounted on a rotating bed and a boom hoist drum mounted in a frame connected to the rotating bed. A boom hoist line is wound on the boom hoist drum and connected to an upper equalizer and a lower equalizer, with the upper equalizer connected to the top of the boom, such that rotation of the boom hoist drum changes the amount of boom hoist line between the lower equalizer and the upper equalizer, thereby changing the angle between the rotating bed and the boom. The boom hoist drum frame, the lower equalizer and the upper equalizer each include cooperating attachment structures whereby the equalizers can be detachably connected to the frame so that the boom hoist drum, the lower equalizer, the upper equalizer and the boom hoist line can be transported between job sites as a combined assembly.
US08622226B2 Guitar case rack
This application is for guitar case rack or stand that can compactly hold a plurality of guitar cases, can roll, spin, or remain stationary. Case lids can be left open or closed, but the guitars remain substantially protected even with the lids left open. The case rack can transform into a dolly, and in this configuration, it stores extremely compactly.
US08622225B2 Fluid purification using hydraulic vortex system
An assembly for water purification comprising a series of vessels which allows fluid to communicate therebetween via fluid supply lines. The assembly is arranged so as to generate a plurality of co operating vortices generated by fluid impact on formations disposed on an inner surface of the vessels to cause an ascending fluid flow to be deflected back in the direction of fluid flow thereby creating local vortices. Water exiting said vessels has higher purity than water entering the vessel.
US08622224B2 Method of making a filter media with an enriched binder
Water filtration media having a charged material affixed directly to binder material used in the fabrication of the filter media. A microbiological interception enhancing agent is added to the binder directly. The media having a charged material and a microbiological interception enhancing agent both affixed directly on a binder material is then combined with core filter media and prepared as a filtration media. A filter is prepared from the treated filter media.
US08622222B2 Membrane cleaning with pulsed airlift pump
A method of cleaning a membrane surface immersed in a liquid medium with a fluid flow, including the steps of providing a randomly generated intermittent or pulsed fluid flow along the membrane surface to dislodge fouling materials therefrom. A membrane module is also disclosed comprising a plurality of porous membranes (6) or a set of membrane modules (5) and a device (11) for providing a generally randomly generated, pulsed fluid flow such that, in use, said fluid flow moves past the surfaces of said membranes (6) to dislodge fouling materials therefrom.
US08622221B2 Device for filtering polymer melts
A filtering device (100) for plastic melts exhibits at least one screen plunger (10) arranged movably between an inlet channel (5) and an outlet channel (6) of a housing (1) and containing replaceable, three-dimensional filter elements (25). The inside of the filter elements (25) is connected to at least one melt channel (11, 12) formed in the screen plunger (10). The melt channel is connected to the inlet or outlet channel (5, 6) of the housing (1) when in the production position. The screen plunger (10) exhibits at least one receiving chamber (14) that can be closed using a cover (16) on the face side. Several filter elements (25) are bundled with a central distribution element (20) to a filter cartridge (30) that can be placed in the receiving chamber (14).
US08622218B2 Method of preventing damage to miniature electronic components held by a component carrier
A miniature component carrier includes a thin, resilient mask through which are formed multiple spaced-apart apertures each of which is sized and shaped to compliantly receive and hold a miniature component in a controlled orientation during termination processing such that the side margins of the aperture primarily contact and grip the corner regions of the miniature component. At least some of the apertures have side margins that form rhomboidal or elliptical apertures. The shape and size of the multiple spaced-apart apertures confine within an operational tolerance contact between the side margins of the aperture and the side or end wall surfaces of the electronic component. This reduces mechanical damage to the side and end wall surfaces that results from their contact with the side margins during receipt and gripping of the miniature component in the aperture.
US08622217B2 Disposable cigarette butt receiving bag
The invention relates to a cigarette butt receiving bag of disposable type for receiving and extinguishing glowing cigarettes, which bag (1) comprises a forward sheet (2), a rearward sheet (4), which sheets are sealed to each other along their outer edges (6) leaving an edge portion unsealed so as to provide an opening (8) for receiving a cigarette butt (10), thereby forming a cigarette butt receiving compartment (12) between said forward and rearward sheets (2, 4), and comprising a fluid (14), which is disposed in two heat insulating volumes (16, 18) within the cigarette butt receiving compartment (12). A first heat insulating volume (16) is delimited by the forward sheet (2) and a forward inner layer material (20) which is sealed against the forward sheet (2). A second heat insulating volume (18) is delimited by the rearward sheet (4) and a rearward inner layer material (22) which is sealed against the rearward sheet (4). The invention also relates to a method of manufacturing a cigarette butt receiving bag of disposable type.
US08622216B2 Composite package
A composite package having a folded paperboard card and two plastic components shaped to interfit with one another when the package is closed. The plastic components define a space for containing one or more articles. The folded paperboard card may be a dual-panel card with two panels joined to one another along a fold line or other hinge. Each paperboard panel may define an opening to seat a plastic component. The paperboard is configured to bring the two plastic components into registration when the panels are folded together along the hinge. The plastic components may be configured to releasably interlock with one another when the package is closed. One of the two plastic components may include a shoulder that is configured to be snap-fitted or otherwise frictionally into the other plastic component. The opening may include a seat shaped to closely receive the shoulder and provide a stop against which the shoulder abuts when the package is closed.
US08622211B2 System and method for displaying a padlock
For example, a first retaining tab may have a first (curved) surface and a second surface substantially parallel to the face of the card, wherein the first surface restricts movement of the padlock in a direction parallel to the face of the card (i.e., prevents the padlock from moving side to side) and the second surface restricts movement of the padlock in a direction orthogonal to the face of the card (i.e., prevents the padlock from moving out, away from the face of the card). Once the padlock is placed in the aperture and the back plate is attached to the card, the padlock is secured (e.g., between at least one retaining tab and the back plate) and ready to be displayed (e.g., on a hook, on a shelf, on a display rack, etc.).
US08622209B2 Container for mixing
A self-contained generator/fumigator and delivery system is described herein that provides for sealed containment to store, isolate and protect two or more solid and/or liquid reactants in separate chambers. Upon activation, the container facilitates robust mixing of the reactants, the containment thereof and allows the release of a pre-determined amount of gaseous products, e.g., chlorine dioxide, carbon dioxide and others, into a targeted volume of water, air or other solution.
US08622207B2 Carrier for containers
A carrier for holding a plurality of containers. The carrier has at least one bottom panel, at least one top panel, a front panel, a back panel, and at least two side panels. The at least one top panel is foldably connected to one of the front panel and the back panel. The at least one top panel has a handle portion for forming a handle of the carrier and a retaining portion having container receiving openings for retaining the containers in the carrier. The carrier has a retention flap foldably connected to the top panel for retaining the carrier in an assembled position.
US08622205B2 Pocket storable hand towel and case
A portable hand drying device incorporates a case foldable to form a vertex having an interior surface and a zipper closure for a peripheral edge. A multilayer liner having an outer permeable layer and an inner absorbing layer is attached to the interior surface of the case with hook and loop fastener and a towel, foldable to be encased within the case, is attached to the liner at the vertex.
US08622203B2 Device for sorting products
A device for sorting products including a frame, an endless drivable flexible conveying element, successive elongated carriers, which are each coupled to the conveying element via a coupler for being conveyed in a conveying direction along an endless conveying path, which carriers extend transversely to the conveying direction, and pusher elements which are each movable along a carrier. The coupler including a supporting part and a supported part supported by the supporting part, as well as a connector for detachably connecting the supporting part and the supported part together, wherein the supporting part is coupled to the conveying element and the supported part is connected to a carrier, and wherein the connector can be accessed from the upper side of the supported part for effecting the connection between the supporting part and the supported part.
US08622200B2 Feeding device with motorized rollers for overlying bands of paper or other materials
Feeding device, for feeding bands having different lengths and bound in a direction transverse to the feeding direction, includes a driving roller and a rubber-covered pressure roller, both being activated by respective brushless motors. The feeding device is controlled by an electronic drive that allows the pressure roller to rotate at a greater speed than the driving roller, allowing the sliding of the overlapping band above the base band during feed motion, maintaining constant the required tension and eliminating the rolling up of the overlaying band in correspondence of the transversal bind with the base band.
US08622199B2 Adjustable conveyor extensions
Example conveyor systems are disclosed herein. An example conveyor system includes a main conveyor with a frame supporting at least one conveyor extension. Some conveyor extension examples include a powered conveyor belt supported by one or more conveyor sections that are articulated for assisting one or more workers in transferring items (e.g., boxes, parcels, luggage, parts, etc.) to and from the main conveyor. A single main conveyor supports two conveyor extensions mounted alongside each other with someone working at each extension to allow two workers to service a single main conveyor with minimal or no interference, thereby increasing the conveyor system's overall transfer rate. Example conveyor system disclosed herein includes various elements of positional adjustment (e.g., lateral, longitudinal, vertical, angular) to make the conveyor system particularly suited for transferring parcels between a loading dock and the interior of a truck, trailer, aircraft or container.
US08622198B2 Component transferring apparatus and IC handler
An apparatus includes: a retainer moving between a shuttle and a socket; a presser holding a component; an adjuster moving the presser; a socket mark near the socket; a hand mark near the socket mark when the retainer is at a component mounting position; a first camera photographing a first image including the component and hand mark; a second camera photographing a second image including the socket mark and socket, and a third image including the socket mark and hand mark; a first calculator obtaining a first relative position between the socket mark and socket from the second image; a second calculator obtaining a second relative position between the socket mark and hand mark from the third image; and a third calculator obtaining a third relative position between the hand mark and component from the first image. The adjuster corrects the component's position based on the relative positions.
US08622192B2 Conveyor shift assembly and product cart with conveyor shift assembly
A product cart has a frame and one or more tanks forming compartments each having an opening at the upper end for receiving product. The cart includes a conveyor support having a swing arm with a first end pivotally mounted to the frame for motion generally horizontally between storage and use positions, a shift assembly mounted to a second end of the swing arm, and a mounting bracket assembly coupled to the shift assembly. Finally a conveyor is coupled to the mounting bracket assembly. The swing arm is constructed as a parallel linkage having first and second links which form a four-bar parallel linkage with the frame and with the shift assembly to maintain the shift assembly in a fixed orientation relative to the frame as the swing arm is moved. The shift assembly is operable to move the mounting bracket assembly between lowered and raised positions.
US08622182B2 Vehicle drive device
A drive device for a vehicle configured between an internal combustion engine and a wheel. The drive device includes a rotary electric machine, and an engagement device connecting the drive device to the engine by a fluid coupling using hydraulic pressure. A case houses at least a portion of the drive device and includes a support wall extending radially, and a cylindrical projecting portion projecting from the support wall toward a side in an axial second direction that is in a direction opposite to the axial first direction. The engagement device includes an operating oil pressure chamber supplied with the hydraulic pressure. A rotor member of the rotary electric machine is radially supported by the cylindrical projecting portion in a rotatable state via a support bearing. The cylindrical projecting portion is formed with an operating oil supply passage supplying oil to the operating oil pressure chamber.
US08622181B2 Brake operating device of electric bicycle with sensor
A brake operating device of an electric bicycle is provided with a brake lever including a projecting plate at one end, and a bifurcated cable anchoring member pivotably secured to the projecting plate; a magnetic member adhered to one side of the cable anchoring member; a housing pivotably secured to the brake lever and including a hydraulic cylinder and a cylindrical socket including an opening distal the brake lever, and internal threads proximate the opening; a spring depressible sensor including a sensing member disposed in the socket, and an electric wire extending from the sensing member; a hollow threaded fastener adjustably threadedly secured to the internal threads of the socket to engage the sensing member; and a cylindrical member releasably mounted proximate to the opening and secured to the fastener. The electric wire passes the fastener and leaves the housing.
US08622176B2 Gearbox oil reservoir shape optimization
A gearbox for use in an auxiliary power unit has a plurality of gears received within a housing. A lube pump is mounted within the housing, and delivers oil to the plurality of gears and bearings. The lube pump has an oil supply tube for supplying oil to the pump for delivery to the plurality of gears and bearings. An oil reservoir maintains a quantity of oil above a lowermost end of the inlet tube, and is shaped such that a cross-sectional area at a lower end of the inlet tube has a first cross-sectional area. Other cross-sectional areas spaced upwardly from the first cross-sectional area are greater. A ratio of the second cross-sectional area to the first cross-sectional area is less than 3.
US08622175B2 Collapsible ladder
A ladder having several collapsible ladder sections (100), each comprising two hollow ladder bars (102, 103) arranged parallel to each other and interconnected by a rung (104), where each collapsible ladder section is telescopically inserted into a lower ladder section. Each ladder bar of a collapsible ladder section has a locking hole (111) and an extension (112) below the locking hole. Retaining mechanisms (106) are provided in the rungs for locking the collapsible ladder sections relative to one another, and the retaining mechanisms comprise a locking pin (108), which can engage a corresponding locking hole provided in the ladder bar of a ladder section positioned there above. At least part of the collapsible ladder sections have a non-locking slot or groove (101) formed in the extensions of the ladder bars, where the slot reaches from a distance below the ladder bar to the bottom of the ladder bar. A ladder bar slot or groove may be positioned in such a way that a locking pin of a below lying ladder bar can pass freely in the slot of an above lying ladder section that is fully collapsed.
US08622172B2 Window jack scaffold and method of operation thereof
A method and apparatus for providing access to the exterior of a building in proximity to an opening, such as a window or door opening, in a wall of the building. Access is provided by a platform that is supported by brackets from vertical members fastened to the interior of the building. The platform may be passed from the interior of a building to the exterior of the building through an opening in the building. The apparatus may be assembled in, and installed from, the interior of a building.
US08622171B2 Dual track ladder with brake mechanism that is automatically applied to the upper tracks to hold the ladder in place during use
A ladder system includes an overhead track system, a ladder, a latch and a carriage. The overhead track system includes a first guide track and a second guide track. The carriage is operatively configured to move longitudinally along the first and second guide tracks and to move laterally between the first and second guide tracks. The ladder is pivotally mounted to the overhead track system. A lateral carriage brake is provided which prevents lateral movement of the ladder, and a longitudinal carriage brake is provided to prevent longitudinal movement of the ladder. The latch is operatively configured to affix the ladder to the carriage.
US08622165B2 Building machine comprising a presence detection system
A building machine, especially a road finishing machine, comprising a presence detection system. The presence detection system comprises a sensor which is integrated in the control panel of the building machine. By means of the sensor a distance measurement can be carried out, which determines whether the operator is properly seated on the driver's seat of the building machine or whether he stands properly at the standing work place. In order to determine the presence a tolerance range may be specified, which allows a slight movement of the operator on the driver's seat. If the operator approaches the limits of the tolerance range he is asked in time by warning signals to be seated again properly on the driver's seat or adopt a proper position at the standing work place. If the sensor detects no operator on the driver's seat or at the standing work place all of the functions of the building machine are stopped in order to make sure that the work site is safe.
US08622162B2 Engine compartment cooling system
An engine compartment cooling system includes an axial fan assembly and a remote mount fluid cooler assembly. The axial fan assembly and the remote mount fluid cooler assemblies are mounted in clear holes in at least one of the quarter panels. The axial fan assembly exhausts engine heat outwardly from the engine compartment through the quarter panel. The fluid cooler assembly receives ambient air through the quarter panel into the engine compartment. The axial fan and fluid cooler assembles are controlled using, sensors, signal data, and a controller. The controller is programmed with the operation data so that the cooling system optimizes engine cooling while varying operation of the engine's cooling system, and the axial fan and the remote mount fluid cooler assemblies according to the invention.
US08622161B2 Installation structure for electrical equipment in rear vehicle body
An installation structure includes a member 7 extending in a longitudinal direction of a vehicle and provided on the lower face of a bottom 6a of a spare tire housing 6, a charger 1 provided with fins 2 under the charger 1, the charger 1 installed in the tire housing 6, and a blower 15 for cooling the charger 1 provided in the tire housing 6, so as to lead air from the blower 15 to the fins 2; the installation structure further includes linear first and second brackets 9 and 10 disposed in parallel to each other with a distance therebetween, so as to be joined onto the upper face of the bottom 6a of the tire housing 6, wherein the charger 1 is placed on the first and second brackets 9 and 10 so as to arrange the fins 2 and the first and second brackets 9 and 10 in parallel to one another, the blower 15 is disposed in the vicinity of an aperture 14 surrounded by the first and second brackets 9 and 10 and the charger 1, and the second bracket 10 is joined together with the member 7 and the tire housing 6 to one another.
US08622159B2 Motorized tracked unit
This motorized track unit is for use with a wheelchair seating system or other undefined cargo systems. The Smart Trak device is capable of carrying its intended cargo across solid or loose surfaces such as grass, mud, dirt, sand or snow. It is also capable of traversing uneven or unsteady ground surfaces and having the abilities to scale incline/declines of approved stair sets. The device itself can be outfitted with a multitude of add-ons giving it the ability to allow handicapped persons the abilities to have a full function wheelchair system that allows them to go up/down stairs.
US08622152B2 Down-the-hole drill hammer having a sliding exhaust check valve
A down-the-hole drill hammer having a housing, a backhead and a tubular sliding check valve assembly that includes a distal end, a threaded male proximal end, a supply inlet and an exhaust port. The exhaust port communicates between an interior of the backhead and an exterior of the backhead. The tubular sliding check valve assembly includes a distributor, a sliding valve, and a biasing member. The distributor has a central opening extending through the distributor, an aperture extending through the distributor, and an exhaust gallery. The sliding valve is slidable along the central opening. The biasing member biases the sliding valve to a closed position.
US08622149B2 Ballistic transfer delay device
A ballistic transfer delay device and method of use. The ballistic transfer delay device does not include a firing pin and it is not pressure initiated. The device comprises a time delay fuse, a through-bulkhead initiator to initiate the time delay fuse, and an output booster to ballistically transfer the energy from the initiated time delay fuse.
US08622146B2 Fire extinguisher and method
A device for fire extinguishing is described, comprising a fire retardant cloth, which is arranged to cover objects upon a fire or the beginnings of a fire, to put out or prevent the fire from developing, wherein the fire retardant cloth is mounted in a release mechanism arranged to release the fire retardant cloth, in such a way that the cloth covers said objects, upon detection of the fire or development of the fire. A method for same is also disclosed.
US08622144B2 Method of, and apparatus for the dispensing of decontaminants and fire suppressant foam
This invention comprises a method of dispensing water-based decontaminants from a dispenser, comprising the steps of: (a) filling one or more tanks each with respective solutions of chemicals and water; (b) pumping the solutions from the tanks in respective hoses, each of the tanks being evacuated under the urging of a respective pump; (c) mixing the solutions at a static mixer after evacuation of the solutions from the tanks to form a mixture; (d) adding water to the mixture at the static mixer; and (e) dispensing the water-added mixture onto an incident site.
US08622138B2 Apparatus and method for recovering fluids from a well and/or injecting fluids into a well
Methods and apparatus for diverting fluids either into or from a well are described. Some embodiments include a diverter conduit that is located in a bore of a tree. The invention relates especially but not exclusively to a diverter assembly connected to a wing branch of a tree. Some embodiments allow diversion of fluids out of a tree to a subsea processing apparatus followed by the return of at least some of these fluids to the tree for recovery. Alternative embodiments provide only one flowpath and do not include the return of any fluids to the tree. Some embodiments can be retro-fitted to existing trees, which can allow the performance of a new function without having to replacing the tree. Multiple diverter assembly embodiments are also described.
US08622135B2 Apparatus and methods for separating sand from well fracturing return water
Apparatus and methods for removing sand or other particulate from well fracturing return water are disclosed. In a sand separator box, a barrier element divides the tank into an upper compartment and a lower compartment. Particulate-laden return water flows through a gas separator and then into the upper compartment of the box. The barrier element allows the water in the upper compartment to pass into the lower compartment while keeping the sand or particulate in the upper compartment. As water accumulates in the lower compartment, it is pumped out to storage tanks or back to the well for reuse.
US08622132B2 Method of perforating a wellbore
The present invention discloses a wellbore subassembly with a perforating gun. The wellbore subassembly includes a tubular body and a perforating charge. The tubular body has a wall defining an interior space and an exterior space and the wall has a cavity. In some embodiments, the cavity may be shaped to define a charge socket that receives only a single perforating charge. The perforating charge is configured in the cavity at a location inside the wall. The perforating charge is configured to discharge toward and into the interior space and penetrate into the exterior space by perforating the wall across the interior space from the location of the perforating charge.
US08622131B2 Equipment for remote launching of cementing plugs
An apparatus for remotely launching cementing plugs is configured such that the length of a dart is not necessarily the same as the corresponding plug to be launched. A hydraulic-liquid reservoir and a piston are incorporated into a plug-launching system. The size of the reservoir may be adjusted such that the axial displacement of the piston after the dart lands is sufficient to cause the expulsion of a plug from the apparatus.
US08622124B2 Well treatment using electric submersible pumping system
A technique provides an electric submersible pumping system to facilitate a well treatment, such as a hydraulic fracturing well treatment. The electric submersible pumping system is positioned downhole and oriented to intake a fluid delivered downhole for use in the well treatment. Once the fluid is delivered downhole, the electric submersible pumping system pumps, pressurizes and discharges this fluid to perform the well treatment, e.g. the hydraulic fracturing treatment. The pumping system reduces the pressure at which the treatment fluid must be delivered downhole.
US08622120B2 Method for influencing the temperature of an electromechanical component and device for carrying out the method
A method and a device for influencing the temperature of at least one electromechanical component situated in a motor vehicle, in which a transmission situated in the motor vehicle is cooled by a transmission oil flowing in a transmission cooling circuit. A cooling circuit branch is provided for influencing the temperature of the electromechanical component. The transmission oil also flows in the cooling circuit branch as a heat carrier. The flow rate of the transmission oil in the cooling circuit branch is influenced for influencing the temperature of the electromechanical component as a function of the setpoint operating temperature and/or the actual operating temperature of the electromechanical component.
US08622119B2 Fixing frame and heat dissipation device using the same
A heat dissipation device includes one of heat sinks with different specifications each of which includes a core and supports extending outwards and radially from the core, and a fixing frame receiving the one of the heat sinks therein. The fixing frame comprises a side plate, a plurality of vertical walls extending downwardly from the side plate, and two sets of slots defined in an inner side of the side plate. Each of the slots extends upwardly from a bottom surface of the side plate to a certain depth to form a step at a top thereof. The slots are staggered with the vertical walls. The supports correspondingly slide in one set of slots and abut corresponding steps.
US08622112B2 Retractable, low-profile storm shield systems and methods
A system for protecting building penetrations is disclosed. The system can include a screen comprising flexible, strong fabric-like material suitable for resisting high winds, driving rain, and wind-driven missiles. The screen can further include loops sewn, or otherwise manufactured, into the span sides of the screen. The system can further include one or more retention channels having an internal hem rod. The loops in the screens can slide over the hem rod to guide and retain the screen in the retention channels. The hem rod can include a tapered end and a loop opener to facilitate the loops sliding over the end of the hem rod. The system can further include an enclosure for housing a take-up roll and a powered or manual rotating system. The system can include a deflection device to enable the screen to unroll off the take-up roll smoothly and vertically.
US08622109B2 Pressure debulking system and method
A pressure debulking system includes a debulking chamber having a debulking chamber interior, a pressure bladder having a bladder interior provided in the debulking chamber interior, a vacuum port disposed in fluid communication with the debulking chamber interior and a pressure port disposed in fluid communication with the debulking chamber interior. A pressure debulking method is also disclosed.
US08622108B2 Labeling machine for blood-sampling tube automatic preparation device
Provided is a labeling device for an automatic test-tube setting-up device wherein an identification label can be pasted over a product label with a simple structure. A labeling device for an automatic blood-sampling-tube setting-up device comprises a means for taking out a blood-sampling tube based on patient information and supporting the blood-sampling tube at a labeling position, a blood-sampling tube driving means for rotary driving the blood-sampling tube at the labeling position, a label printing means for creating an identification label by printing test information and/or patient information and outputting the identification label to the labeling position, a product label position detecting means for detecting the edge of a product label previously pasted to the outer surface of the blood-sampling tube, and a controller for controlling the operation of the label printing means and the blood-sampling tube driving means such that the identification label is pasted over the product label with a continuous gap left in the axial direction of the blood-sampling tube on the outer surface of a blood-sampling tube based on information about the diameter of a blood-sampling tube corresponding to the blood-sampling tube at the labeling position, and information about the edge of the product label obtained from the product label position detecting means.
US08622104B2 High-performance type for a motor vehicle
A tire for a motor vehicle, in particular a high-performance, tire is provided with a tread having an overall width. The tread includes first and second circumferential grooves which separate a central region from first and second shoulder regions. The tread includes a circumferential cut in the first shoulder region at a distance from the first circumferential groove; and a plurality of circumferentially repeated transverse groove modules. A first shoulder portion of each transverse groove module includes at least one main transverse groove which includes a first substantially rectilinear portion inclined by a first angle with respect to a radial plane, a second substantially rectilinear portion inclined by a second angle with respect to the radial plane and arranged between the circumferential cut and the first circumferential groove, and a first curve portion connecting the first and the second substantially rectilinear portions.
US08622103B2 Transferrable purse organizer
A transferable insert for organizing the interior of a bag includes a pair of side walls, a pair of end walls and a bottom wall substantially continuously interconnected so as to define an interior storage compartment, a first and second expansion panel each being operatively moveable between a collapsed position and an expanded position to conform to the width of the interior of the bag, a first and second expansion fastener structured and disposed for holding the respective first and second expansion panels stowed in the collapsed position, and a plurality of pouches within the interior storage compartment for holding and positioning a plurality of objects therein in an organized arrangement. A releasable fastener on each of the pair of end walls may be used for releasably holding one of the pair of end walls in a gusseted position.
US08622102B2 Neck assembly
A neck assembly of a fuel system component comprises a housing. The housing comprises a sleeve having a first end portion positioned exterior to the fuel system component and a longitudinally opposed second end portion. The housing further comprises an encapsulation ring extending radially outwardly from the second end portion of the sleeve and encapsulated within a wall of the fuel system component. The neck assembly further comprises a valve cartridge at least partially received within the sleeve and secured thereto. The valve cartridge comprises a conduit having a first end portion positioned exterior to the fuel system component and a longitudinally opposed second end portion.
US08622099B2 Multi-function unit for the offshore transfer of hydrocarbons
A hydrocarbon transfer arrangement for transfer of fluids between an offshore unit and a carrier which are placed in an offloading configuration, includes at least one transfer hose and a gas return hose, wherein the end of the at least one transfer hose is connected to a floating multi-function unit allowing for the transport of the transfer hose between the offshore unit and the carrier, wherein the floating multi-function unit can be lifted out of the water and can be held in a fixed position above water-level and is provided with connection elements for making a fluid connection between the transfer hose end and a manifold of the carrier and with emergency disconnect elements for the at least one transfer hose, placed at a distance from the connection elements.
US08622096B2 Spin improvement string pliers
The spin improvement string pliers is a pivotally secured together plier device used to manually restructure and roughen the surface of a synthetic string on a strung tennis racquet by means of plastic deformation. The line grids on the pliers depress the string, leaving a series of indentations on the string surface that increases the friction between the string and the ball so that the tennis player can more easily generate top or under spin on a tennis ball or a racket ball.
US08622091B2 Protector for tubular threaded joint
A protector which prevents damage to a solid lubricating coating on a threaded portion of a threaded joint when the protector is mounted on a pin or a box of a threaded joint for pipes in which at least one of the pin or the box is lubricated with a solid lubricating coating comprises a tubular member having a threaded portion on its inner or outer peripheral surface which threadingly engages with at least a portion and preferably 3-5 complete threads of the threaded portion provided on the pin or the box to be protected. The thread height H1 of the threaded portion of the protector and the thread height H2 of the complete thread of the pin or the box on which the protector is mounted satisfy H1>H2, and the difference between H1 and H2 [=H1−H2] is larger than the maximum coating thickness at the thread crest of the solid lubricating coating which covers the threaded portion of the pin or the box.
US08622087B2 Control valve
A control valve includes a valve body, a valve plug, two adjusting elements and two operating members. The valve body has a valve hole defined through the valve body and further defines an inlet hole and two outlet holes respectively communicating with the valve hole. The valve plug is movably assembled within the valve body. Two ends of the valve plug are respectively exposed to the outside of the valve body. The two adjusting elements are respectively mounted to two ends of the valve body and respectively adjustably resist against two ends of the valve plug. The two operating members are respectively fixed to the two adjusting elements for driving the two adjusting elements to move the valve plug within the valve hole of the valve body, and thereby controlling the control valve to switch between an open state and a closed state.
US08622083B2 High temperature steam valve
A steam valve is provided including a chest, a lock, a spindle, and a strainer. Each of these components is made of specific Ni alloys combinations that enable the valve to operate at temperatures above 650° C. with a good service life.
US08622078B2 Apparatus of hot tapping multiple coaxial or nested strings of underwater piping and/or tubing for overturned wells or platforms
A method and apparatus for tapping into a pressurized multiple strings of coaxially situated tubulars for wells and/or platforms which have overturned wherein the tapping occurs underwater via a diver or remotely operated vehicle. The assembly includes a tapping tool connectable to the tubular via a saddle connection and an adjustable tapping clamp with adjustable support/locking feet, compression plate with view ports, and angularly adjustable hot tapping system, along with a drill/saw system.
US08622073B2 Apparatus and method for controlling flow rate of liquid, and storage medium
The liquid flow rate control apparatus includes a first flow rate control unit which includes a first flow rate control valve for a small flow rate with a first controlled flow rate range, and a second flow rate control unit which includes a second flow rate control valve for a large flow rate with a second controlled flow rate range. In particular, an overlapped range is present between the first and second controlled flow rate ranges and a liquid flows on either any one or both of the first and second flow rate control units depending on variation of a required value of a total rate. The flow rate on any one of the first and second flow rate control units is maintained and the flow rate on the other one increases while increasing the total flow rate of the liquids.
US08622072B2 Apparatus to control fluid flow
Apparatus to control a fluid flow are disclosed. An example fluid flow control apparatus described herein includes a signal stage comprising a signal stage relay having a supply plug being operatively connected to a valve seat at a first end and an exhaust seat at a second end and a seal operatively coupled to the supply plug such that the seal provides a feedback area to apply a fluid pressure feedback force to the exhaust seat.
US08622069B2 Valve device in a unit for conducting a product, unit of this type and method for operating the same
A valve device for connecting two conduits in a unit for conducting a product comprises a first shut-off member and a second shut-off member and a first leakage space between the first and the second shut-off members, a first connection for one of the two conduits on a side of the first shut-off member facing away from the leakage space, and a second connection for the other of the two conduits on the side of the second shut-off member facing away from the leakage space. A third shut-off member and a fourth shut-off member and a second leakage space are present between the third and the fourth shut-off members, wherein a central third leakage space is present between the second and the third shut-off members, and wherein the second connection for the other of the two conduits is arranged on a side of the fourth shut-off member facing away from the second leakage space.
US08622066B2 Portable expandable shelter
In one example, a portable expandable shelter includes an enclosure with one or more movable portions such as a side or end, and further includes a foldable frame configured and arranged for operation in unison with movement of the movable portion of the enclosure. This example of the portable expandable shelter also includes a cover that encloses at least a portion of a space defined by the movable portion and the foldable frame.
US08622064B2 Combination toothpick and mint dispenser
A combination toothpick and mint dispenser. On a bottom end of the dispenser is a toothpick. On a top end (opposite the bottom end) is a chamber which is used to hold solid mints or liquid refreshment (such as mouthwash). In an embodiment, a shaft connecting the chamber to the toothpick can be hollow, thereby allowing liquid refreshment to pass from the chamber through a bottom of the shaft and out of the dispenser.
US08622062B2 Toezeeze—a biodegradable, water soluble individual toe separator used in pedicures
A system to facilitate pedicures and all applications where comfortable toe separation is demanded. The system consists of small water soluble tubular devices that fit in between each toe to ensure adequate spacing between the toes while polish is applied during a pedicure or other treatment to toes is required. The entire composition is made of water soluble corn starch and may be left in place when using your own sandal, flip flop or other open toed shoe when your services are complete.
US08622061B2 Implanted soft palate support and implantation method
An implanted soft palate support and an implantation method are provided. The implanted soft palate support is a flat implant made of a material capable of being implanted into human tissues for a long time period, and includes a hard palate connecting end and a support. The hard palate connecting end has a connecting structure connected with a hard palate; the support is a flat implant capable of being inserted into a soft palate; and the hard palate connecting end is connected to the support. The implanted soft palate support can achieve the objectives of treating OSAHS and snoring by effectively lifting the collapsed soft palate during sleep and thereby reducing an upper airway obstruction condition. In particular, the soft palate support can be adjusted within a certain range to calibrate its shape and curvature event after the surgery, so as to achieve optimal treatment and comfort.
US08622060B2 Self-pressurizing supraglottic airway
A supraglottic airway of the type used to facilitate lung ventilation and the insertion of endo-tracheal tubes or related medical instruments through a patient's laryngeal opening where the shield is designed to have an internal increase in pressure during assisted inhalation such as positive-pressure ventilation.
US08622058B2 Medical air tubing connection system
A medical air tubing and anti-mismatch fluid distribution system is provided for preventing the inadvertent connection of a feed line to an incorrect source of fluid. The fluid distribution system includes an adapter that is connected permanently to the fluid supply and has an outlet end that is compatible with a coupling member on the feed line. The coupling member on the feed line is compatible with the adapter but is not compatible with the other coupling member of the second fluid supply. A feed line assembly includes a feed line with a connector fixed to a first end and a nebulizer or other medical device fixed to a second end to form a one piece, integrally formed unit. The second fluid supply can include an adapter that is different from the first adapter so that the coupling members of the feed lines are compatible only with the appropriate adapter for the desired fluid source.
US08622057B2 Methods and apparatus for supplying clean breathable gas
The invention features methods and apparatus for the treatment of asthma patients. A controlled supply of breathable air delivered to a patient interface or mask (4) is controlled for patient comfort to maintain a steady pressure level in a range 2 to 4 cm H2O to accommodate patient respiration. The breathable air is cleaned by a high efficiency particulate arresting filter (10) to remove allergens from the air supply. The apparatus may be programmed to automatically detect asthma-related symptoms such as an asthma attack by analyzing the respiratory flow of the patient. In response to the detection of such an attack, the apparatus may provide an audible warning or if configured with a treatment delivery module (14A, 14B), the device may administer a therapeutically effective dose of a drug or substance, for example, a broncho-dilator, to alleviate the patient's breathing difficulty. Preferred mask designs allow for proper CO2 washout to accommodate the low pressures supplied to the mask and prevent asphyxia.
US08622056B2 Solar energy power generation system
A solar energy power generation system generates AC electrical power from solar radiation through the use of parabolic troughs to capture the energy and a fluid turbine to convert the solar energy to mechanical energy. The turbine is directly coupled to a generator to produce AC electrical power.
US08622055B2 Solar collector and solar heating system using same
A solar collector includes a substrate having a top surface and a bottom surface opposite to the upper surface, a sidewall, a transparent cover, and a heat-absorbing layer. The sidewall is arranged on the top surface of the substrate. The transparent cover is disposed on the sidewall opposite to the substrate to form a sealed chamber with the substrate together. The heat-absorbing layer is disposed on the upper surface of the substrate and includes a carbon nanotube structure.
US08622053B2 Burner and method of its operation
A liquid fuel-fired furnace installation is composed of at least one fuel tank (1), a fuel evaporation plate (2), a fuel vapor distribution plate (3) and a valve cutting-off the vapor flow, whereas the fuel tank (1) is connected with an evaporation plate (2) via a conduit (7), and the evaporation plate (2) is equipped with a vapor outlet (8) connected with a cut-off valve (4) and a vapor distribution plate (3) is connected with an inlet stub pipe (11), and in its upper part the plate has holes (12) though which the fuel vapors are exhausted. The installation is characterized by having fuel (P) delivered gravitationally via the conduit (7) into the evaporation plate (2) according to the connected vessels rule, which assures that an aerial layer is left over the fuel table (13).
US08622052B1 Archery bow grip
In at least one embodiment, an archery bow grip comprises a body portion comprising a first wall and an opposed second opposed wall. A connecting wall spans between the first wall and the second wall. The body portion defines a groove between an inner surface of said first wall and an inner surface of second wall. The groove defines a central axis, and the connecting wall comprises a ridge having a peak that extends parallel to the central axis of the groove. The peak is desirably straight along its length.
US08622051B2 Back-tension archery release
A back-tension archery release includes a handle with an adjustable sear housing and an adjustable finger. The handle has a longitudinal axis. The sear housing is adjustable about an axis normal to the longitudinal axis to eliminate twist or torque in a bowstring loop connected with the release. The finger is adjustable about the longitudinal axis to increase or decrease the speed of the release and provide an improved ergonomic feel to the user. In addition, the finger is removable from the handle so that differently configured fingers may be substituted by the user.
US08622050B2 Line crossbow conversion kit and hybrid compound bow
A kit is provided to convert a compound archery bow into a left or right handed inline (vertical limb) crossbow. The conversion kit includes a mounting plate attachable to a side of the bow riser section to hold a socket to receive a draw-lock bar which can be removed for take-down and storage. The draw-lock bar has a series of laterally spaced bolt holes to attach a grip with a trigger release latch assembly at a selectable draw length. The bar can be rotated and attached to either side of the bow, and the trigger and grip can be reposition within the trigger housing for left, right or horizontal shooting. The string latch assembly has an anti-dryfire lever that is only moved from the blocking position when an arrow is nocked. The kit also provides a hinged cocking stirrup, and a front hand vertical grip on the riser side opposite the draw-bar socket. Also disclosed is a dedicated hybrid compound bow for dedicated use with kit as an inline or traditional crossbow. The hybrid compound bow is made especially. The hybrid bow has no forehand grip, and has a shoot through riser to provide vertical and horizontal centering of the arrow to the string.
US08622049B1 Pitching machine
The present invention is a swing arm pitching machine for throwing a ball in a trajectory comprising a horizontal adjustment system for selectively varying the trajectory of a ball horizontally, a height adjustment system for selectively varying the trajectory of the ball vertically, a speed adjustment system for selectively varying the speed of the ball, and a control panel in communication with the horizontal adjustment system, the height adjustment system, and the speed adjustment system for automatically adjusting the trajectory as desired.
US08622048B2 Three-port valve
A three-port valve includes a valve body including a first port, a second port, and a third port, the first port having a first valve orifice and the second port having a second valve orifice. The valve may also include a first valve closure member and a second valve closure member, the first and second valve closure members may be configured to selectively seal the first and second valve orifices, respectively. The valve may further include a solenoid including a first coil and a second coil, at least one of the first and second coils configured to actuate at least one of the first and second valve closure members when energized. Additionally, the valve may include an electrical connection configured to selectively and individually energize the first and second coils. The valve may be configured to operate in at least three different states of operation. For example, the three-port valve may have a first state (e.g., a default state) when neither coil is energized, a second state when first coil is energized to move only one of the valve closure members, and a third state when the second coil is energized to move both valve closure members.
US08622046B2 Fuel system having accumulators and flow limiters
A fuel system for an engine is disclosed. The fuel system may have a pump, a plurality of fuel injectors, and a plurality of fuel accumulators. Each of the plurality of fuel accumulators may be disposed at least partially within a different cylinder head of the engine in fluid communication with an associated fuel injector of the plurality of fuel injectors. Each of the plurality of fuel accumulators may also be in fluid communication with adjacent fuel accumulators of the plurality of fuel accumulators. At least one of the plurality of fuel accumulators may also be in fluid communication with the pump. The fuel system may further have a plurality of flow limiters. Each of the plurality of flow limiters may be disposed between an associated fuel accumulator of the plurality of fuel accumulators and an associated fuel injector of the plurality of fuel injectors.
US08622042B2 Bearing connection, engine cylinder, and engine with the bearing connection
A bearing connection having a connecting rod connected rigidly to a piston and a crankshaft driven by the connecting rod. The connecting rod is connected on the crankshaft side to a transverse bearing for a sliding block, the sliding block being mounted such that it can move to and fro in the transverse bearing and a rolling contact bearing being arranged in the sliding block in order to receive the crank pin of a crankshaft. At least one cavity is formed in the piston crown and, in the area thereof close to the piston longitudinal axis, is connected to an oil feed line running through the connecting rod and that the oil feed line in the connecting rod is led or extended to the end region thereof remote from the piston and, from there, is led onward into the interior of the transverse bearing via a transfer channel.
US08622041B2 Method and apparatus for operating traveling spark igniter at high pressure
An ignition circuit and a method of operating an igniter (preferably a traveling spark igniter) in an internal combustion engine, including a high pressure engine. A high voltage is applied to electrodes of the igniter, sufficient to cause breakdown to occur between the electrodes, resulting in a high current electrical discharge in the igniter, over a surface of an isolator between the electrodes, and formation of a plasma kernel in a fuel-air mixture adjacent said surface. Following breakdown, a sequence of one or more lower voltage and lower current pulses is applied to said electrodes, with a low “simmer” current being sustained through the plasma between pulses, preventing total plasma recombination and allowing the plasma kernel to move toward a free end of the electrodes with each pulse.
US08622037B2 Harmonic drive camshaft phaser with a compact drive sprocket
A camshaft phaser includes a housing with an array of internal splines formed within a bore. A harmonic gear drive unit is disposed within the housing and includes a circular spline and a dynamic spline, a flexspline disposed radially within the circular spline and the dynamic spline, a wave generator disposed radially within the flexspline, and a rotational actuator connectable to the wave generator. One of the circular spline and the dynamic spline is fixed to the housing. A hub is rotatably disposed radially within the housing and attachable to the camshaft and fixed to the other of the circular spline and the dynamic spline. A back plate has an array of external splines engaged in a sliding fit with the array of internal splines for transmitting torque from the back plate to said housing. The back plate also has an input sprocket for receiving rotational motion, in use.
US08622030B2 Spiral heat exchanger for producing heating and/or sanitary use hot water, specifically designed for condensation applications
A spiral heat exchanger for producing heating and/or sanitary use hot water, specifically designed for condensation applications, characterized in that said spiral heat exchanger comprises a duct, preferably though not exclusively made of a thermally conductive material and having a contoured cross-section, called outer duct, inside which can be either arranged or not a second duct, preferably though not exclusive made of a thermally conductive material, called inner duct; the geometrical construction of said outer duct being defined as a resultant obtained by joining two different diameter circumferences, said circumferences being spaced from one another by a constant or variable radius junction pattern; the thus obtained single or double duct being coiled or spiral wound on a diameter substantially larger than the size of said duct thereby providing a hollow cylinder.
US08622029B2 Circulating fluidized bed (CFB) with in-furnace secondary air nozzles
A circulating fluidized bed (CFB) boiler includes a reaction chamber, where a bubbling fluidized bed (BFB) is contained within an enclosure within the lower portion of the reaction chamber and contains an in-bed heat exchanger (IBHX) that occupies part of the reaction chamber floor. A plurality of in-bed secondary air nozzles comprise a plurality of tubes which are grouped together and run across the width of the BFB between the BFB enclosure wall and an outside wall of the CFB. The nozzles are positioned to prevent the deflection of solids falling onto the BFB from the CFB by the secondary air jets while avoiding a complicated structure that would interfere with gas and/or solids movement in the furnace. The nozzles' exit openings are flush, or almost flush, with the BFB enclosure wall.
US08622022B2 Animal feeder
An animal feeder includes a feed reservoir having a cavity for holding a feed material, and a feed dispensing assembly coupled to the feed reservoir. The feed dispensing assembly includes a check valve to allow selective access to the feed material. The check valve inhibits feed leakage from the feed reservoir during pressure fluctuations within the feed reservoir.
US08622018B2 System and method for glazing
A back bedding glazing compound applicator assembly is disclosed. The back bedding glazing compound applicator assembly comprises a nozzle head that is fluidly connected to a back bedding glazing compound supply source and a stabilizer device for retaining a fixed vertical position of a viewing surface while back bedding glazing compound is being dispensed by the nozzle head. The nozzle head includes a back bedding glazing compound channel fluidly connected to a dispensing opening. The dispensing opening is positioned adjacent a bottom surface of the nozzle head.
US08622015B1 Run/walk with visible progress marking
A run/walk may include visible progress marking of participants. The run/walk may be marked including marking one or more color zones and marking a start line and a finish line. A start to the run/walk may be signaled. The participants may traverse the run/walk including traversing the color zones. At each color zone, a quantity of a colored substance may be propelled at the participants as they traverse the color zone. Each color zone may be associated with a color, and colored substance propelled at the participants in each color zone may include the associated color. After the run/walk is complete, markings for the run/walk may be removed. An article of clothing may include the visible progress markings after receiving the propelled quantity of the colored substance. The markings may be preserved on the article of clothing by adding vinegar and hot pressing the article of clothing.
US08622014B2 Cable connection system for underwater vehicle
A system for interconnecting a mother ship with a submersible vehicle using a cable towed by the mother ship. The cable has a first cable end connected to the mother ship and a second cable end to be connected to the submersible vehicle. The second cable end is provided with a first connector. A capturing mast is arranged at the submersible vehicle for capturing the cable towed by the mother ship. A connector holder is arranged at the submersible vehicle for holding the first connector when it is to be connected to a second connector. The second connector is connected to the submersible vehicle. A first guide is arranged at the submersible vehicle for guiding the first connector towards the connector holder of the submersible vehicle. A second guide turns the connector to a well defined position into the connector holder.
US08622013B2 Sailboard step design with less ventilation and increased speed
A step shape in a planing hull for water craft and more particularly for sailboards, surfboard or PWC for increasing the lift in front of the step and decreasing it in back at high planing speed, which has dynamic lift directly behind the step when the hull is traveling at a transition speed between displacement mode and planing mode, but at high planing speed it does not have lift directly behind the step. The hull has increased speed because the lift behind the step at transition speed allows the position of the step to be moved forward and in one embodiment has cambered surface (9) in front of the step. This step does not go across the full width of the hull such that there is a continuous planing surface in front of the fins or other means, which it is desirous that they not ventilate, and fin or other means has more ventilation resistance in another embodiment.
US08622010B2 Seacock closing system
A pneumatic seacock retrofit is provided for convenient closing of all or a portion of the seacocks, whether as a matter of every day convenience or for use in an emergency, in which all of the vessel's seacocks can be pneumatically closed at the same time, leaving the possibility of selectively overriding seacock closure, with all control valves operating to provide a momentary pulse of air to the rotary actuators and then return to a neutral position, leaving the actuators free for further control. Moreover, an operator is free to manually close a valve in the event that the pneumatic system fails.
US08622005B1 Television support and mounting kit
A panel television support and mounting kit allows the consumer to employ any of the three modes of support, namely stand mount, elevated console mount and wall mount. The elevated console mount incorporates a vertical spine to elevate the panel television above the console and an offset arm to support the television over an upper shelf of the console. A mounting structure is provided that can be attached to the spine or to a wall. Pivoting and tilting is accommodated by the mounting structure.
US08622004B2 Rail road hopper car ridge fittings
A hopper car discharge section may be wide at the top and narrow at the bottom. Outflow is controlled by movable closure members. The hopper car has a plurality of hoppers of which two hoppers share a common ridge assembly. The ridge assembly forms a common mating and fit up location for the upper margins of the slope sheets of two lengthwise adjacent hoppers. The ridge assembly includes an horizontal center section and two end plates that angle upwardly outboard toward the top chords of the sidewalls. The ridge assembly stands proud of the upper margin of the respective adjacent slope sheets. A gusset is mounted between the adjacent slope sheets below the ridge plate such that the slope sheets and gusset form a reinforcement tube running across the car, the end plates forming the stems of a vertical T-section attached to the sidewall and overlapping the top chord.
US08622001B1 Kinetic energy fragmenting warhead and projectile incorporating same
A kinetic energy fragmenting warhead includes a penetrator, a plurality of fragments disposed about the penetrator, and a sleeve disposed about at least some of the plurality of fragments. A projectile includes a body and a kinetic energy fragmenting warhead disposed in the body. The kinetic energy fragmenting warhead includes a penetrator, a plurality of fragments disposed about the penetrator, and a sleeve disposed about at least some of the plurality of fragments.
US08621996B2 Engraving of printing plates
An optical imaging apparatus (80) for direct engraving of flexographic plates (52) includes at least two laser sources (43), each emitting laser beams (44). A mirror or prism (45) is placed in front of each of the laser sources to alter an optical path of each of the laser beams. The laser beams cut the flexographic plate at different depths and cut out chunks (65) of the flexographic plate.
US08621991B1 Pistol grip spring compressor system and method for maintaining compression on a valve spring
A pistol grip spring compressor system including a spring lock unit, an actuator assembly, and an anvil module such that the spring lock unit secures a valve spring coil of a valve spring unit from an internal combustion engine in a fixed position relative to a frame element to permit an anvil, provided by the anvil module and positioned against a valve spring retainer of the valve spring unit, to maintain compression on the valve spring while the valve spring unit is separated from an automobile internal engine combustion block.
US08621988B1 Inverted suspension poultry roasting rack
An inverted suspension poultry roasting rack for supporting a poultry in an inverted position with only the interior portion of the poultry making physical contact with the support rack. The inverted suspension poultry roasting rack generally includes a base unit, a first member extending upwardly from the base unit at a first angle with respect to the base unit, a second member extending upwardly from the first member, a third member extending downwardly from the second member at a second angle with respect to the base unit, and a hook extending from the distal portion of the third member. A poultry is positioned upon the third member and retained in an inverted position for cooking.
US08621984B2 Machine for preparing beverages by infusion of a product contained in a capsule or the like
A machine having a support structure with a hot-water dispensing head, a capsule-carrying assembly which is mounted so as to be movable in a first plane in the support structure. The machine further including a guide means suitable for allowing the capsule-carrying assembly to move between a working position in which the assembly is coupled with the dispensing head and an intermediate position in which the assembly can pivot about a first axis perpendicular to the first plane, towards an angular loading position in which it can receive a capsule. The machine also having an actuating device which includes an actuator member which is rotatable about a second fixed axis and can bring about the movement thereof between the working position and the loading position.
US08621980B2 Temperature control system
A temperature control system and apparatus for controlling the temperature of a beverage contained within a beverage server. The temperature control system enabling a user to control of a plurality of attributes of temperature of a beverage from the making of a beverage until the dispensing and disposal of the beverage.
US08621978B2 Actuator for opening an aircraft engine nacelle cowl
Actuator (V) for opening an aircraft nacelle cowl (7), comprising a dead travel device (19), characterized in that it comprises means (42a, 42b, 43) for blocking the dead travel device (19) when this actuator (V) is extended.
US08621975B2 Device and method for treating vascular abnormalities
A vascular device is provided that includes a tubular structure and an occluding structure. The tubular structure has inner and outer layers, with the occluding structure located between the inner and outer layers. Each of the inner and outer layers may define a different pick count, and the tubular structure may include a leading edge at a transition between the pick counts. The leading edge may be disposed at the distal end of the vascular device when the device is deployed from a delivery device. Furthermore, the occluding structure may have first and second layers formed by the inversion or eversion of the occluding structure and the subsequent coupling of its free ends to form a continuous structure. Thus, any loose ends may be sealed to minimize unraveling and/or shifting of the occluding structure within the tubular structure. A method of making the vascular device is also provided.
US08621974B1 Modular over pressure disrupter
In an exemplary embodiment, an overpressure disrupter system is described including at least one module, an explosive material contained in at least one module, and a fire retardant material contained in at least one module. At least one module includes at least one connection area, at least one outer wall; and at least one inner wall. At least one outer wall and at least one inner wall combine to form at least one outer compartments housing the fire retardant material. At least one inner wall forms at least one inner compartment housing the explosive material. At least one connection area is configured to connect at least one module with at least one of another of at least one module and at least one ancillary device.
US08621971B2 Cutting apparatus with adjustable mechanism
A cutting apparatus configured for aligned with a gate of an injection molding part, includes a bottom board, a main adjustable mechanism attached to the bottom board, and a cutting mechanism. The main adjustable mechanism includes a driving device, a mounting member attached to the driving device, and a rotatable member rotatably attached to the mounting member. The rotatable member can be rotatable relative to the mounting member between a first position, where an acute angle is formed between the rotatable member and the mounting member, and a second position, where the rotatable member parallel to and abuts the mounting member.
US08621966B2 Perforation anvil
A method and apparatus for perforating a web includes an anvil roll having an outer surface wherein at least a portion of the outer surface defines an anvil surface. The anvil surface includes a plurality of angled grooves having a variable groove width. The method may include phasing the cutting position on the anvil to effect varying perforation patterns.
US08621961B2 Multi-purpose tool
A tool handle includes a handle body having a first end, a second end, an exterior surface and a bore configured to receive a shaft. A wire stripper is integrated into the exterior surface of the handle and configured to cut and remove the insulating layer of a conductive wire. The wire stripper includes a first sharp edge and a second sharp edge intersecting the first sharp edge to form a v-shaped notch.
US08621958B2 Drive device
A drive device serves for adjusting an operating element for a valve, a throttle, a blow-out preventor or the like, in particular in the field of gas and oil production, the operating element being actively connected to at least one driving motor via a drive train, and at least one transmission changing unit being arranged in the drive train for converting a revolution of the driving motor into a revolution of the operating element and/or a revolution/linear motion converter being arranged for converting the revolution of the driving motor into a linear motion of the operating element. In order to also have a very compact design in case of a high possible performance and to simultaneously permit a good thermal distribution within the drive device, so that separate cooling devices for carrying off the generated lost heat are superfluous, the drive train comprises at least one essentially disk- or wheel-shaped revolution introducing device which is actively connected with at least two drive shafts driven by separate driving motors.
US08621956B2 Seat actuator
An actuator (1) for a vehicle includes a base (4), a covering element (5), a handle piece (6) arranged rotatably in the covering element (5), and a cable (25) with a terminal fitting (26). The actuator (1) is insertable into a metal structure of a vehicle seat backrest. The base (4) has a guiding element (32) that moves the terminal fitting (26) into an initial position for assembling the handling piece (6) to the terminal fitting (26). The guiding element (32) is between a core (24) of the cable (25) and prevents the terminal fitting (26) from rotating.
US08621954B1 Systems and methods for gravity compensation
Disclosed herein are systems and methods that may compensate for the effect of gravity on certain haptic devices, such as haptic-robot devices. An example embodiment of the disclosed systems and methods may take the form of a gravity-compensation system that includes (a) a carriage coupled to a rod having a first axis, wherein the carriage is configured to move along the first axis, (b) a displacement mechanism coupled to the carriage, wherein the displacement mechanism is configured to move the carriage along the first axis of the rod based on a displacement of an extendable arm along the first axis, and (c) a restorative-force mechanism configured to exert, on the carriage, a restorative force that acts along a second axis. The gravity-compensation system acts in a primarily passive manner, helping to ensure the safety of users at the point of human-robot interaction (pHRI).
US08621949B2 Safety device for a linear actuator and a linear actuator
The invention concerns a safety device (1) for an actuator comprising a connection means (2) allowing a connection to a releasable holding means (5). The connection means (2) is fixed via a sacrificing means (3) to a supporting means (4), and a resilient means (7) is acting between the supporting means (4) and a supporting portion (8). An extension means (9) is fixed to the supporting means (4) via the connection means (2). The sacrificing means (3) has a mechanical strength such that the sacrificing means (3) breaks when subjected to a force exceeding a predetermined force, such that the extension means is no longer fixed to the supporting means and that a re-connection of the supporting means (4) and the releasable holding means (5) is made impossible. The predetermined force is lower than the mechanical strength of the extension means (9) and the supporting means (4). A linear actuator (13) comprising the safety device (1) is also provided.
US08621947B2 Assembly device for a measuring probe for measuring process variables in a process
An assembly device, especially a retractable assembly, for a measuring probe for measuring process variables in a process, comprising: an assembly housing with a connection system for connecting the assembly device to a process container; a tubular holder for a measuring probe, wherein the tubular holder is guided in the assembly housing axially displaceably between a measuring position in the process container and a maintenance position outside of the process container; and a damping system to damp axial shifting of the tubular holder. The damping system comprises a fluid filled, damping cylinder within the assembly housing, and a damping piston unit guided within the damping cylinder (15) in operative connection with the tubular holder.
US08621945B2 Method and apparatus for improving the temperature stability and minimizing the noise of the environment that encloses an interferometric measuring system
Disclosed herein is a method and system for providing environmental control for a vibration sensitive system such as an interferometric measurement system, while minimizing acoustic noise during data acquisition.
US08621941B2 Feedback system for identifying movement and intensity of external force
A feedback system for identifying an external force, includes an operation plate and a pressure-sensing unit. The pressure-sensing unit includes an elastic member supporting the operation plate and a pressure sensor inside the elastic member. The pressure sensor includes a pressure sensitive film. An inner side of the elastic member is filled with fluid material which acts on the pressure sensitive film. The operation plate is driven by the external force to be slant which extrudes the elastic member to deform so as to change fluid pressure of the fluid material limited in the elastic member, and such change of the fluid pressure can be sensed by the pressure sensitive film of the pressure sensor so as to identify the movement and the intensity of the external force.
US08621939B2 Ribbed force sensor
In one embodiment, a force sensor apparatus is provided including a tube portion having a plurality of radial ribs and a strain gauge positioned over each of the plurality of radial ribs, a proximal end of the tube portion that operably couples to a shaft of a surgical instrument that operably couples to a manipulator arm of a robotic surgical system, and a distal end of the tube portion that proximally couples to a wrist joint coupled to an end effector.
US08621937B2 Multiphase metering system
A multi-phase fluid is passed through a Coriolis flowmeter and a watercut meter. The multi-phase fluid includes two phases during a first time period and three phases during a second time period. It is determined that the multi-phase fluid includes two phases during the first time period, and a first value of a parameter of the multi-phase fluid is determined using a value measured by the Coriolis flowmeter during the first time period. A second value of a parameter of the multi-phase fluid is determined using a value measured by the watercut meter during the first time period. The first value is compared to the second value, and it is determined, based on the comparison, that the first value and the second value are inconsistent with each other.
US08621934B2 Dual-axis resonance testing of wind turbine blades
An apparatus (100) for fatigue testing test articles (104) including wind turbine blades. The apparatus (100) includes a test stand (110) that rigidly supports an end (106) of the test article (104). An actuator assembly (120) is attached to the test article (104) and is adapted for substantially concurrently imparting first and second forcing functions in first and second directions on the test article (104), with the first and second directions being perpendicular to a longitudinal axis. A controller (130) transmits first and second sets of displacement signals (160, 164) to the actuator assembly (120) at two resonant frequencies of the test system (104). The displacement signals (160, 164) initiate the actuator assembly (120) to impart the forcing loads to concurrently oscillate the test article (104) in the first and second directions. With turbine blades, the blades (104) are resonant tested concurrently for fatigue in the flapwise and edgewise directions.
US08621923B2 Humidity sensor
A humidity sensor has, on a substrate, at least one voltage sensor with a sensor region and at least one control electrode. The control electrode is connected to a signal source which is designed such that a variable control voltage can be applied to the control electrode. A moisture-permeable sensor layer whose dielectric constant depends on humidity is located on the sensor region. The control electrode is adjacent to the sensor layer in such a manner that the measured voltage signal of the voltage sensor depends on the control voltage and the humidity. The voltage sensor is connected to an analysis unit for ascertaining the humidity on the basis of the measured voltage signal. In the vertical projection onto the plane in which the substrate extends, the control electrode is located laterally next to the sensor region.
US08621916B2 System and method for measuring injection processes
A system for measuring an injection process includes a measurement chamber filled with a fluid. An injection valve injects the fluid into the measurement chamber. A piston is arranged in the measurement chamber. A sensor generates a voltage which is a measure of a piston travel. The sensor is connected with an evaluation unit which continuously detects the piston travel in the measurement chamber. A rotary displacement pump arranged in a bypass channel to the measurement chamber is driven dependent on an existing volume difference. A pressure sensor is arranged in the measurement chamber. A heating element and/or a cooling device is/are arranged at the measurement chamber and is/are actuated by a controller so that an amount of energy introduced by the fluid injected by the injection valve and an amount of energy introduced by the heating element and/or the cooling device is substantially constant for every injection.
US08621915B2 Apparatus and methods for multidimensional analysis
The invention provides improved methods and apparatus for multidimensional analysis, especially for multidimensional liquid chromatography. Methods and apparatus for the quantitative determination of one or more components comprised in a sample mixture are described. Methods and apparatus of the invention typically allow accurate quantitative determination of more components of the mixture than prior multidimensional methods. The invention is particularly useful for, but is not limited to the analysis of complex mixtures of peptides and proteins.
US08621914B2 Respirator test accessory
A test accessory for testing a variety respirators. The accessory is designed to compliment existing equipment to provide a robust assessment of respirator performance. The accessory may include a head form having an inflatable bladder capable of fitting a variety of sizes of respirator masks. In some embodiments, the inflatable bladder does not rely on adhesives to effect a seal, thereby eliminating manufacturing and quality assurance steps. The test accessory may also include a detachable instrumentation module that may be removed from the accessory, enabling calibration and maintenance at a remote facility without need for transporting the entire unit. The module may also house a memory device that may be upgraded with calibration data and firmware during the calibration process.
US08621913B2 Use of hydrogen sensor to detect hydrogen storage system pressure regulator failure
A method and system for using an existing open-environment hydrogen sensor for detecting hydrogen leaking from an atmospheric reference port of a pressure regulator. The atmospheric reference port extension tube of one or more pressure regulators in a hydrogen storage system is routed past a hydrogen sensor which is already used to monitor air around the hydrogen storage system for the presence of hydrogen. In this configuration, the open-environment hydrogen sensor can quickly and reliably detect hydrogen gas flowing from the atmospheric reference port of one of the pressure regulators in the event a pressure regulator develops an internal leak.
US08621910B2 Wear gauge array for head protective coating
In one embodiment, a system comprises a magnetic head, a protective coating on a media-facing side of the head, and an indentation in the protective coating having a dimension that, when the protective coating wears, is indicative of an amount of wear of the protective coating. A method, in another embodiment, comprises creating an indentation in a protective coating of a magnetic head, the indentation having a dimension that, when the protective coating wears, is indicative of an amount of wear of the protective coating. In another embodiment, a method comprises visually inspecting indentations in a protective coating of a magnetic head, wherein at least two of the indentations have differing dimensions that, when the protective coating wears, are indicative of the amount of wear of the protective coating. The method also includes estimating an amount of wear of the protective coating based on the visual inspection.
US08621905B2 Apparatus for producing inserts for steam generator tubes
An apparatus for producing inserts for steam generator tubes is provided. The apparatus is intended to allow a technically particularly simple production process, and consequently allow particularly high-speed production of inserts. For this purpose, the apparatus includes a winding head with a wire guiding pin, a guiding opening for a former shaft, provided with a number of spiral slots, and a pressure roller, the wire guiding pin, the guiding opening and the pressure roller being arranged in such a way that a tangent of the pressure roller and of a slot of the former shaft and the guiding axis of wire guiding pin substantially coincide.
US08621904B2 Hydroforming apparatus and method for hydroforming
A hydroforming apparatus and working method able to simply find a load path are proposed, which system and method use a mold in which contact sensors able to judge contact with a metal tube inside the mold are mounted at least at two different positions in the tube axial direction, perform a first step of axially pushing tube ends in a state with the internal pressure held at a constant value and stopping the progress of the axial pushing action when judging that among the contact sensors not yet in contact mounted at positions closest to the tube ends detect contact with the metal tube, next perform a second step of raising only the internal pressure while leaving the positions of the tube ends fixed and stopping the increase in the internal pressure when the contact sensor not yet in contact judges contact, next perform a third step of lowering the internal pressure to the value before raising it while leaving the positions of the tube ends fixed, and repeat said first step to third step until all of said contact sensors judge contact so as to obtain a hydroformed part.
US08621899B2 Tamper indicating padlock
A travel padlock for securing an article comprises a housing having a shackle, a key lock and a combination lock. An indicator having at least first and second positions is moved from the first position to the second position upon insertion of an object longitudinally into a key hole of the key lock. In at least one embodiment, at least a portion of the indicator extends beyond the exterior of the housing when in the second position. In addition, in at least one embodiment of the present invention the shackle may be rotated to reset the indicator from the second position back to the first position. Furthermore, in at least one embodiment of the present invention the indicator may be reset from the second position back to the first position without rotating the shackle or unlocking the combination lock. Methods of making and using the padlock are also provided.
US08621891B2 Article of footwear incorporating a knitted component with a tongue
Articles of footwear may have an upper that includes a knit element and a tongue. The knit element defines a portion of an exterior surface and an opposite interior surface of the upper, with the interior surface defining a void for receiving a foot. The tongue is formed of unitary knit construction with the knit element and extends through a throat area of the upper.
US08621890B2 Knitted cut-resistant glove, without fibreglass
This glove (10) is knitted using three yarns, that is, a first composite yarn prepared by wrapping one or more highly abrasion-resistant polyamide yarns on a composite core made by direct cabling of a stainless steel yarn and one or more highly abrasion-resistant polyamide yarns, a second polyamide elastane yarn, and a third para-aramid yarn, the double-sided knitting being carried out by plating so that the first and second yarns are located on a first side of the knit while the para-aramid yarn is located on the second side of the knit.
US08621888B2 Manufacturing method for a thermal head
In manufacturing method for a thermal head, concave portions, including a reference concave portion, are formed on a surface of a substrate so that a length of each of the concave portions other than the reference concave portion increases as a distance from the reference concave portion in a length direction increases and so that a width of each of the concave portions other than the reference concave portion increases as a distance from the reference concave portion in a width direction increases. A mark identifying the reference concave portion is formed on the surface of the substrate. An insulating film is thermally fusion bonded to the surface of the substrate including the concave portions formed thereon. Heating resistors are formed on the insulating film using a photo mask by aligning the photo mask with the substrate in accordance with the reference concave portion to form the heating resistors so as to be opposed to the plurality of concave portions.
US08621886B1 Jewelry safety device
The jewelry safety chain device is a flexible cable which has a first end spaced apart from a second end, a loop disposed on the flexible cable first end, a clasp disposed on the flexible cable second end, a plurality of eye screws, each eye screw having an eyelet, a shaft extended from the eyelet, a point disposed distally on the shaft, a thread disposed on the shaft medially from the point, each eye screw configured to selectively attach to a link of an existing multi-link band of an existing jewelry item, the flexible cable and cable loop configured to attach to one of the eyelets, the flexible cable configured to pass through a remainder of the eyelets and the clasp configured to attach to one of the eyelets, thereby removably securing a chosen pair of links together in preventing inadvertent jewelry item loss.
US08621885B1 Single beverage freezable container
A container for accepting and retaining bottles or cans for the purpose of insulating or bringing them to a desired temperature range is disclosed. A preferred embodiment includes a hollow upper section with an internal cylindrical portion that has an upper edge. The upper section includes an internal frusto-conical section with a slotted aperture that commences from the cylindrical portion and extends away from the cylindrical portion. The device also includes a hollow base section that is adapted for engaging the upper section. The arrangement accommodates cans as well as bottles, and allows drinking from either type of container while retaining the container.
US08621883B2 Rotating valve and heat pump
A rotating valve is provided that includes an inlet region having a plurality of stationary separate inlets for several flows of a fluid and an outlet region having an in particular identical plurality of stationary separate outlets for the flows of the fluid, wherein between the inlet region and the outlet region a switching region having a switching member that can be rotated about an axis is provided, wherein in a first position of the switching member the plurality of inlets are connected to the plurality of outlets in a first association, and wherein in a second position of the switching member the plurality of inlets are connected to the plurality of outlets in a second association, wherein the switching member comprises a plurality of openings through which the fluid flows flow axially in the direction of the rotation axis and which are moved together with the switching member, the openings alternately covering a plurality of stationary, axially directed openings in the course of the rotation of the switching member, wherein the different associations of the inlets with the outlets are carried out by the alternating covering of the axially directed openings.
US08621881B2 System and method for heat pump oriented zone control
A system and method to control environmental parameters of pre-defined zones within an environment using an electronic controller. An electronic controller monitors a loop temperature of a loop field of a geo-thermal heat pump as detected by a temperature sensor connected to the loop field. The electronic controller selects a staging combination of the geo-thermal heat pump and an auxiliary HVAC equipment based on at least the loop temperature. The electronic controller activates the selected staging combination, to modify at least a portion of the environmental parameters, using non-proprietary activating signals provided by the electronic controller.
US08621880B2 Air conditioner and method for controlling the same
An air conditioner is provided. The air conditioner includes a heat exchanger which exchanges heat with air by passing a coolant therethrough; and an anti-freeze apparatus which prevents the freeze of water on the surface of the heat exchanger by supplying energy to the heat exchanger. The air conditioner can prevent the freeze of water on the surface of the heat exchanger during its operation, and thus, there is no need to perform a defrost operation during the operation of the air conditioner. In addition, the air conditioner can continuously and efficiently perform an air conditioning function.
US08621876B2 Ruggedized integrated detector cooler assembly
Provided for an embodiment is a support member for a cryogenic cooler's expander. The support member provides stiffness to the expander to reduce movements at the expander's distal end and may increase the natural frequency of the expander. The support member may increase the natural frequency of the expander at least about two times in the bending and/or twisting sense. The bending natural frequency of the expander and support sub-assembly may be at least about two times greater or lower than the natural frequency of the electrical wires that connect an infrared sensor to a control processing unit to reduce the maximum stress applied to the electrical wires during use. In another embodiment, additional or redundant electrical pathways are provided for connections between the infrared sensor and the CPU. Furthermore, shock absorber and/or shock diverters are provided on rigid pins that connect the electrical wires to the CPU.
US08621874B2 Turbomachine core coupling assembly
A coupling assembly for an engine core of a turbomachine is provided. The coupling assembly comprises a duct having a substantially circular shape and surrounding the engine core, and a plurality of coupling struts, each coupling strut extending only in a substantially vertical direction relative to the direction of gravity when the engine core is at a rest position with zero pitch and zero roll, each of the plurality of coupling struts coupling the engine core to the duct.
US08621872B2 Method and device for utilising biomass
A method and device for converting thermal energy from carbonaceous raw materials into mechanical work is provided. The device includes at least one first and one second device for storing and releasing thermal energy connected at least intermittently alternatingly in a turbine branch having a gas turbine connected downstream. The method includes the steps of: a) combusting a gas in a gas burner; b) passing the smoke gases arising in the gas burner through a device for storing thermal energy; and c) feeding the hot air released by at least one device into the gas turbine, wherein the gasification of the carbonaceous raw materials takes place in a gasifier in a first step and the product gas is fed into the gas burner connected downstream of the gasifier.
US08621870B2 Fuel injection method
A method is provided for fuel injection in a sequential combustion system comprising a first combustion chamber and downstream thereof a second combustion chamber, in between which at least one vortex generator is located, as well as a premixing chamber having a longitudinal axis downstream of the vortex generator, and a fuel lance having a vertical portion and a horizontal portion, being located within said premixing chamber. The fuel injected is an MBtu-fuel. In said premixing chamber the fuel and a gas contained in an oxidizing stream coming from the first combustion chamber are premixed to a combustible mixture. The fuel is injected in such a way that the residence time of the fuel in the premixing chamber is reduced in comparison with a radial injection of the fuel from the horizontal portion of the fuel lance.
US08621863B2 Turbocharger for an internal combustion engine of a motor vehicle
In a turbocharger for an internal combustion engine of a motor vehicle, comprising a turbine housing having first and second spiral passages, each of which is connected to at least one exhaust gas line of an exhaust train of the internal combustion engine and a turbine wheel disposed within a rotor chamber of the turbine housing and connected to a compressor impeller via a drive shaft for rotation with the impeller, the exhaust gas of the internal combustion engine can be routed through the spiral passages for admission to the turbine wheel via the first and second spiral passages which have different wrap angles around the turbine wheel.
US08621862B2 Remote cooling system for charge-air cooled engines
A remote cooling system (10) for cooling turbocharged compressed air from a charge-air cooled engine (12) which is placed within an enclosed environment. The cooling system (10) comprises a charge-air cooler (14) located a predetermined distance from the engine (12). The charge-air cooler (14) comprises a fluid receiver (16) which receives turbocharged air from the engine 12, an air-to-water heat exchanger (24) which cools the turbocharged air received from the fluid receiver (16), and a fluid return member (26) for returning cooled air to the engine (12). A secondary cooling device (34), located outside of the enclosed environment, provides heat transfer from the heat exchanger (24) within the charge-air cooler (14) to an external environment.
US08621858B2 Hydraulic circuit for a regenerative drive assembly
An assembly (10) forming part of a regenerative drive system for a motor lorry. The motor lorry has a driven train that is operatively associated with the assembly (10) so as to cause operation of the assembly (10) to store energy, or alternatively to be driven by the assembly (10) by depletion of energy stored by the assembly (10). The assembly (10) includes a variable angled swash plate pump/motor (11) that is drivingly associated with the drive train and the motor lorry. The assembly (10) includes a clutch (13) that is engaged when the motor lorry is de-accelerating, to cause the pump/motor (11) to be driven.
US08621854B2 System and method for determining an age of and controlling a selective catalytic reduction catalyst
An exhaust treatment system for exhaust gas produced by an engine includes a condition control module, a load determination module, and an age determination module. The condition control module decreases a load on a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) catalyst below a predetermined load threshold and increases exhaust gas temperature (EGT) to a predetermined temperature. The load determination module increases injection of a dosing agent into the exhaust gas and determines a load on the SCR catalyst when dosing agent is detected downstream from the SCR catalyst. The age determination module determines an age of the SCR catalyst based the determined load and predetermined loads for first and second SCR catalysts, respectively.
US08621851B2 Particle filter arrangement
A particle filter arrangement for filtering exhaust gases of an internal combustion engine such as a diesel internal combustion engine, includes an inlet and an outlet and at least one particle filter arranged in the flow path of the exhaust gases between the inlet and outlet. The exhaust gases are conducted in a line, with the line having a first segment in which the exhaust gases are conducted substantially in the direction of the outlet. The line has a second segment in which the exhaust gases are conducted substantially in the direction of the inlet. An operating temperature of the arrangement sufficiently high to prevent full loading of the filter is generated particularly quickly in that the line also includes a third segment in which the exhaust gases are conducted substantially in the direction of the outlet.
US08621850B2 Exhaust gas treatment device for diesel engine
An exhaust gas treatment device for a diesel engine is capable of smoothly starting the generation of a combustible gas and is provided with a small combustible gas generator. A core material is fitted in the center portion of an annular wall to form an air-fuel mixing chamber between the inner peripheral surface of the annular wall and the outer peripheral surface of the core material. An air-fuel mixture gas in the air-fuel mixing chamber is adapted to be supplied from the end of the air-fuel mixing chamber to a combustible gas generating catalyst to a portion near the center thereof. A heater is used as the core material, the heat dissipating outer peripheral surface of the heater is exposed to the air-fuel mixing chamber. Heat is dissipated directly from the heat dissipating outer peripheral surface of the heater to the air-fuel mixing chamber when starting the generation of the combustible gas.
US08621849B2 Method for diagnosing a diesel oxidation catalyst
A method and a control system are provided for diagnosing a diesel combustion catalyst that is located in an exhaust line within a diesel engine system. The method comprising providing an unburned fuel mass flow through the diesel oxidation catalyst, determining the oxidation heat release rate which is related to the exothermic oxidation reactions of the unburned fuel into the diesel oxidation catalyst, integrating the determined oxidation heat release rate on a time interval, integrating the unburned fuel mass flow on the same time interval, dividing the integrated value of oxidation heat release rate and the integrated value of unburned fuel mass flow for determining an efficiency index (DOI) of the diesel oxidation catalyst.
US08621844B2 System and method for controlling fuel delivery based on output from a post-catalyst oxygen sensor during catalyst light-off
A system includes a voltage determination module and a fuel control module. The voltage determination module determines a first output voltage of a first oxygen sensor position upstream from a catalyst in an exhaust system of an engine, and determines a second output voltage from a second oxygen sensor positioned downstream from the catalyst, the first output voltage indicating a first oxygen level of exhaust upstream from the catalyst, the second output voltage indicating a second oxygen level of exhaust downstream from the catalyst. The fuel control module controls a fuel mass injected into the engine based on the first output voltage and the second output voltage when a temperature of the catalyst is greater than a light-off temperature, and controls the fuel mass based on the second output voltage and independent from the first output voltage when the catalyst temperature is less than light-off temperature.
US08621838B1 Pneumatically-operated master chain link press tool
The pneumatically-operated master chain link press tool is a press tool that is configured to press on a master link plate onto master link pins of a drive chain. The press tool includes a cylinder inside of which is a pneumatically-driven piston that is spring-loaded in order for the piston to return to a retracted position after pressing the master link plate onto the master link pins. A distal end of the cylinder includes a master link support jig that is partially exposed via a side opening. The master link support jig includes a master link recess that is configured to support a master link body of a drive chain there against. An opposing distal end of the cylinder includes a compressed air inlet and an air release. The compressed air inlet is configured for attachment and use with a compressed air hose.
US08621834B2 Drive arrangement for a reel and a chaff spreader of a combine
A drive arrangement for a reel and a chaff spreader of a combine, having a first hydraulic motor for driving the reel and a second hydraulic motor for driving the chaff spreader, wherein the hydraulic motors are connected in series with regard to the flow of hydraulic fluid.
US08621830B2 Film sealing and wrapping machine with rotary cut and seal jaw
The film sealing and wrapping machine with a rotary cut and seal jaw is provided. The rotary cut and seal jaw has an internal sliding mechanism which provides for smooth and quiet operation. The rotational speed of the jaw may be varied to increase through put and to provide for a title bag around products. The rotary cut and seal jaw may comprise a seal bar and pressure pad may both be spring loaded to self align the seal bar and pressure pad during the sealing and cutting process. Lastly, a gap defined by a belt disposed upstream and downstream of the seal bar and pressure pad may be mechanically linked to the pressure pad through a control carriage.
US08621826B2 Apparatus for assembling mail pieces
Prior to assembling mail pieces of which at least a number each comprise a main document and at least one insert of at least one type, one or more mini image files are stored, each defining a mini image of at least a part of a type of insert. The mini image of the respective insert defined by the mini image file is printed on each envelope for a mail piece including that type of insert for one or each of a number of the inserts.
US08621824B2 Bottle decontamination system
A system for sterilizing bottles with a gaseous sterilant. The system includes moving means for continuously moving bottles one after another along a path. An assembly is provided for distributing a predetermined amount of the gaseous sterilant from a source of gaseous sterilant to each of the bottles. The assembly includes a plurality of injectors that are movable with the bottles. One of the plurality of injectors is associated with each of the bottles. The injector is fluidly connected to the source of gaseous sterilant when the bottle associated with the injector is disposed along a first portion of the path. The injector is disposed above the bottle when the injector is in a first position. The injector is disposed within an interior of the bottle when the injector is in a second position such that the predetermined amount of the gaseous sterilant is conveyed into the interior of the bottle.
US08621823B2 Furring channel framing member
A furring channel framing member for use with joists or studs of a structural support framework for a wall or ceiling includes one or more creases placed specifically to provide a location for curvature of the framing member. In some cases, the one or more creases may establish a flex joint that permits hand-bending of the framing member about such flex joint to create a desired curved configuration for the furring channel framing member. The creases may also or instead placed at pre-determined intervals in a manner that, through the creases themselves, establish a curvilinear configuration of the framing member.
US08621817B1 Vertical vibrating screed
This invention discloses a method of building concrete walls, columns and other vertical or sloped structures using a vertically oriented vibrating screed and utilization of the thixotropic properties of wet concrete. The vertical screed is a simple, inexpensive and highly flexible apparatus that may be used for a wide variety of applications that involve the applying of cementicious material in the construction of a vertical structure. By using highly thixotropic concrete, the vertical screed is able to place concrete and other cementicious materials in a vertical plane much like concrete is placed with vibrating screeds in the horizontal plane. The vertical screed's applications range from applying a thin cementicious coating to placing concrete in a vertical plane to construct a wall or column. The various configurations of the vertical screed range from a small hand held device to a much larger mechanically controlled apparatus.
US08621815B2 Lattice support structure
The present invention relates to a lattice support structure having lattice bars in connection with one another, wherein the lattice support structure has lattice bars extending in the longitudinal direction of the lattice support structure as well as lattice bars directly or indirectly connecting them, wherein the connecting lattice bars are connected to the lattice bars extending in the longitudinal direction such that the spacing of the lattice bars extending in the longitudinal direction of the lattice support structure can be reduced on the folding in of the lattice support structure and can be enlarged on the unfolding of the lattice support structure, characterized in that one, several or all of the connecting lattice bars are not displaceably arranged on the lattice bars extending in the longitudinal direction, but are rather pivotably arranged at the lattice bars extending in the longitudinal direction or are pivotably arranged at further connecting lattice bars which are in turn pivotably arranged at the lattice bars extending in the longitudinal direction.
US08621814B2 Floor panel
Floor panel, with a horizontally and vertically active locking system allowing that two of such floor panels can be connected to each other at said sides by providing one of these floor panels, by means of a downward movement, in the other floor panel; wherein the vertically active locking system includes a locking element in the form of an insert; wherein this locking element includes at least a pivotable lock-up body. The pivotable lock-up body includes a support portion which is rotatable against a support surface pertaining to the floor panel concerned, and more particularly in a seat.
US08621813B2 Wireless solar shingle panel and a method for implementing same
A shingle and method is provided, wherein the shingle includes a shingle back having at least one back conductive trace and a shingle front configured to securely include at least one solar cell. The shingle front includes at least one front conductive trace configurable such that when the shingle front includes a solar cell, the solar cell is conductively connected to the at least one front conductive trace in a series fashion. At least one of the back conductive traces is conductively connected to at least one of the front conductive traces. The back conductive traces and the front conductive traces are configured such that when the shingle is associated with a like shingle, the back conductive trace of the like shingle is conductively connected to the at least one front conductive trace of the shingle to be in a series fashion.
US08621811B2 Thermoplastic siding insulation
The present invention discloses an extruder for producing a thermoplastic material having a first and second portion comprising an axially extending barrel and a screw conveyer axially disposed within said barrel so as to define a passage for conveying thermoplastic material from an input through a melt zone to an output. Furthermore the present invention discloses an insulation member comprising an elongated insulation member formed of a thermoplastic insulating material, said insulating member having a top edge, a bottom edge, and first and second side edges; the top edge comprising a protrusion, said top edge extending beyond a corresponding top edge of a corresponding panel of siding; and the bottom edge comprising a ledge, said ledge operable to overlap the protrusion.
US08621810B2 Building wall system
A building wall system has a plurality of panels positioned adjacent one another for securement to a frame structure of a building via a plurality of fasteners. A plurality of rails secures a façade to the panels. Each rail has a first, second and third portion. The first portion receives the fasteners to secure the bracket to the frame structure. The second portion provides a surface for securement with the façade. The second portion is spaced from the panel so that fasteners do not enter the panel. The third portion rests against the panel to provide rigidity for the rail.
US08621806B2 Composite joist floor system
The composite joist floor system includes joists supporting metal decking and a stand-off fasteners are spaced along the length of the joist Each fastener has an upper portion with a through hardness between HRB 70 and HRC 40 and a lower portion having a threaded portion with a through hardness of between HRB 70 and HRC 40 and a thread-forming portion adjacent the threaded portion with at least a HRC 50 hardness and failure torque to thread-forming torque of at least 3.0 and a drive torque at least 20% less than a thread-forming torque, and a fluted lead portion adjacent the thread-forming portion with a nominal diameter between 70 and 95% of major diameter of the threaded portion adapted to form a fastener opening. These stand-off fasteners extend into and are encapsulated by a cementitious slab supported by the metal decking to form a composite floor system.
US08621805B2 Bridging thermal block system and method
A system and method for insulating a metal roof include a blanket of insulation laid over at least one purlin. A series of thermal blocks are fastened above the purlin over the blanket of insulation. Each thermal block in the series of thermal blocks has legs that pin the blanket of insulation to a top of each purlin. Gaps are defined between the legs, the gaps enabling regions between the legs wherein the blanket of insulation is only partially compressed between the purlin and an underside of each thermal block. Each thermal block can include a first end, a second end, and a first leg between the first and second ends. The first end includes slots for receiving clip legs of a first roof clip. The second end includes an abutment surface and a landing surface for receiving a next thermal block in a series of thermal blocks.
US08621804B2 Insulating wall panel assembly and method for manufacturing same
An insulating wall assembly, including a framework having opposite interior and exterior sides and including a plurality of vertical and horizontal support studs defining an inner spacing within the framework, a substantially rigid insulating panel mounted to the framework, and an insulating material extending in the inner spacing and juxtaposed to the rigid insulating panel. Each one of the vertical and horizontal support studs has an outer stud member having a thickness t1 and an inner stud member mounted inwardly to the outer stud member and having a thickness t2 thinner than the thickness t1. The substantially rigid insulating panel is supported peripherally by the inner stud members with the outer stud member circumscribing the rigid insulating panel.
US08621797B2 Steel structure including pre-stressing brackets for improving load-carrying capacity and serviceability
A steel structure including pre-stressing brackets for improving load-carrying capacity and serviceability comprises: a steel girder; a plurality of connecting brackets connected to the bottom surface of the steel girder spaced and apart from one; and a cover plate connected to the bottom surfaces of the connecting brackets. Since the cover plate is installed regardless of the connecting portion of the steel girder, pre-stressing section can be consecutively formed therefore pre-stress effect is improved. Moreover, since the connecting brackets space the cover plate a constant distance from the steel girder, the moment of inertia is increased so the span of a bridge might be increased.
US08621796B2 Conduit duct with sequence of layers
A conduit duct for sealing at least one conduit includes an elastomer body for sealingly contacting the conduit. The elastomer body comprises at least two elastomer parts, wherein each of the elastomer parts includes a plurality of hollow sleeves. In an assembled condition of the elastomer body parts, the hollow sleeves of one of the body parts are arranged with the hollow sleeves of the other one of the body parts to form a sequence of layers surrounding the conduit. A tensioning device positioned on the elastomer body compresses the elastomer body to thereby sealingly press the body onto the conduit.
US08621794B2 Reinforced mull post assembly
A composite reinforced mull post is disclosed for use in an entryway assembly. The mull post may engage a door on one side and a side light window on the other side. The mull post may comprise a one or two piece outer portion and one or more internal reinforcing members. The outer portion may comprise a plurality of interlocking pieces. The pieces may include a stop portion and a support portion, each with interlocking ribs. A first internal reinforcing member may be formed of engineered material such as a wood laminate, and a second reinforcing member may comprise a channel that extends partially around the first reinforcing member. The reinforcing member may include orthogonal portions conterminously received within a correspondingly shaped central chamber formed by the housing formed by the joined interlocking pieces.
US08621786B2 Efficient layout and design of production facility
An improved layout for a manufacturing facility is disclosed. The layout includes a production area which includes a hub which is at least partially surrounded by a production corridor. The production corridor comprises production stages used in the manufacturing process. The hub, having direct line-of-sight to the production stages, can easily monitor the manufacturing process.
US08621781B2 Hydroponic irrigation system
A low cost valve and system for automated ebb and flow irrigation utilizes a collapsible sleeve to control fluid flow direction. No external power, moving parts, or floats are needed to operate the valve, resulting in improved reliability, low operating cost, and minimal need for maintenance. The valve operates using feed pressure to close the drain when hydroponic nutrient solution is pumped into the cultivation chamber. The valve drains automatically once the pump is stopped, usually by means of a timer, and the spent hydroponic solution is recovered. The fill/drain cycle is repeated as needed to keep the plants moist, yet not waterlogged.
US08621776B2 Bait mimicking insertable fishing lure module
An electronic module in a fishing lure in the water is activated to broadcast a pre-recorded actual or simulated sound of a bait creature and or create lifelike bait creature motion. A switch in the module activates a sound chip and a micro speaker, a water sensing automatic on-off switch turns the power on and off, and the battery is charged by an external charging coil. An alternate embodiment automatically activates the fishing lure device to replicate bait animals in size, shape, movement and sound.
US08621774B1 Firearm with multiple targeting laser diodes
All or some of the component parts of a firearm are made of synthetic diamond materials. Some firearms include a specially designed trigger capable of verifying a user's identity so that only an authorized user can discharge the firearm. Some firearms include a diamond barrel designed to impart a unique pattern of grooves to any bullet leaving the barrel, thereby facilitating reliable identification of the firearm that fired a particular bullet.
US08621773B2 Shooting rests for supporting firearms
One aspect of the invention is directed to shooting rests for supporting a firearm having a first portion and a second portion rearward of the first portion. In one embodiment, a shooting rest includes a frame, a front support for supporting the first portion of the firearm, a support member for carrying one or more weights, and a stop for inhibiting rearward movement of the firearm relative to the shooting rest. The front support is coupled to the frame, and the support member is positioned at least proximate to the frame. The stop includes a flexible portion and is also coupled to the frame.
US08621771B2 Machine for controllably flying a flag in the absence of natural wind
A machine for controllably flying a flag indoors or outdoors in the absence of natural wind; said machine constituted of a base member having enough depth to house and protect electronic and/or electro-mechanical drive components etc.; said drive components including, but not limited to at least one electric motor mechanically coupled to a drive shaft of a cylindrical centrifugal fan via pulleys; said fan, as well as an air foil member and a flag pole housed in a long tubular wind pipe rigidly secured atop aforementioned base member in such a manner that when the aforesaid motor(s) actuates the aforesaid fan member via the aforesaid shaft, air pulled in through holes on the wind pipe is blown past the aforesaid airfoil, and then past the flagpole and attached flag, thereby causing said flag to rise and flap in the natural manner; an airfoil angle of attack knob atop the aforementioned wind pipe, in conjunction with a motor speed control knob atop the aforementioned base member, providing affective means of changing or modifying the flying pattern or flapping of aforesaid flag; a synthesized music circuit consisting of several songs preferably national anthems or state songs programmed into its memory is looped together with a programmable timer and an LCD display and control panel for permitting timed actuations of the machine ala electronic alarms.
US08621770B1 Excavating apparatus employing swivel adapter with gear bearings having gears with divergent thickness
An apparatus for swiveling an implement, such as a bucket, relative to a device, such as an excavator boom, includes a rotary union and a bearing disc mounted in a housing. The bearing disc rotates relative to the housing so that the implement can be rotated relative to the device. A gear or geared bearing assembly is located between the bearing disc and top and bottom housing portions for bearing loads transverse to the axis about which the implement is rotated relative to the device. The rotary union has fluid passages extending from the top to the bottom of a central shaft, which is affixed to the bearing disc, and the shaft and disc can comprise a one piece combination rotary union and bearing disc.
US08621767B2 Article of footwear having a support structure
An article of footwear may include a midsole having a plurality of cavities formed therein and a flexible cage member disposed on the midsole and extending across at least one of the plurality of cavities. The flexible cage member may include a plurality of support arms disposed on the midsole and a linking member extending across at least one of the cavities and connecting at least two of the support arms.
US08621766B2 Shoes, devices for shoes, and methods of using shoes
A shoe includes a first plate and a second plate that are located in a forefoot portion of the shoe between an upper and an outsole of the shoe, and one or more springs for biasing the first plate and the second plate apart from each other. A device for a shoe includes a first plate and a second plate that are installable in a forefoot portion of the shoe, and an energy return member positioned between the first plate and the second plate. A method of using a shoe includes applying, with a foot, a force on at least one of two plates that is positioned in a forefoot portion of a shoe, so as to move the two plates together and increase a loading of a spring, and launching the foot due to the two plates being moved apart by the spring as the foot is being lifted.
US08621756B2 Smart material actuator adapted for resonant operation
A smart material actuator having a fixed supporting member, mechanical web, actuating arm, and piezoelectric or smart material stack is disclosed, together with a sensor adapted to indicate the degree of motion of the actuating arms and controller adapted to allow safe operation of the actuator in resonant conditions. Methods of maintaining resonant operation, avoiding resonant operation, and adjusting resonant frequencies are also disclosed.
US08621755B2 Metallized cutlery and tableware and method therefor
A plastic cutlery item molded from a plastic material, such as polystyrene, having a metallic coating that imparts to this cutlery item the appearance of metal cutlery or silverware. In one embodiment the plastic cutlery or tableware items are molded using injection molding techniques, and subjected to a vacuum metallizing process in an individualized non-contiguous manner, where a thin metallic layer is deposited on at least one of their surfaces. The resultant items simulate the appearance of metal cutlery or tableware. In one embodiment of the invention the plastic cutlery or tableware articles are molded from a clear polystyrene resin and are coated with a thin stainless steel layer through vacuum sputtering deposition on only one of the sides. The abrasion resistance of the metallic coating can be enhanced by subjecting the articles to a post-metallizing holding period or by applying a clear protective overcoat.
US08621751B2 Inkjet head manufacturing method
An inkjet head manufacturing method includes the following steps. Firstly, a multilayered structure with a plurality of microstructure layers is provided. The alignment check holes of the microstructure layers are concentric and have different diameters. Then, the microstructure layers are stacked together and the microstructure layers are aligned with each other according to the concentric and different-diameter alignment check holes, wherein a dry film layer is sandwiched between every two adjacent microstructure layers. The preset slots of the microstructure layers are collectively defined as inlet flow channels, ink chambers, pressure cavities and outlet flow channels. Then, the multilayered structure is assembled and positioned through the dry film layers by a thermal compression process. Then, a cutting knife is used to linearly cut the actuator plate over a spacer between every two adjacent pressure cavities and along a path parallel with rims of the pressure cavities.
US08621750B2 Method of making an electrical circuit structure
An electrical interconnect has an adhesive layer in which is formed an array of apertures, the apertures being of non-circular shape. An electrical circuit apparatus has a first circuit having at least one electrical contact, a second circuit having at least one electrical contact aligned to the electrical contact of the first circuit, and a standoff structure between the first and second circuits having at least one aperture aligned to one electrical contact of the first and second circuits, the aperture being of a non-circular shape.
US08621746B2 Method for making phase change memory
A method for making phase change memory is provided. The method includes following steps. A substrate is provided. A plurality of first row electrode leads and the second row electrode leads is located on the substrate. A carbon nanotube layer is applied on the substrate to cover the first row electrode lead and the second row electrode lead. The carbon nanotube layer is patterned to form a plurality of carbon nanotube units located on the second row electrode lead. A phase change layer is applied on the surface of each carbon nanotube unit. A plurality of first electrodes, a plurality of second electrodes, a plurality of first row electrode leads and a plurality of second row electrode leads is located on the substrate.
US08621745B2 Stretch film sleeve label applicator
A stretch film sleeve label applicator for separating a stretchable sleeve label from a web of such labels and applying the label to an item, such as a container, is disclosed. The applicator is particularly useful for applying high stretch labels to highly contoured containers. The applicator is configured to receive a series of labels in an elongated, continuous web of flat, 2-ply sleeve labels, open the continuous sleeve of labels, separate an individual label from a next successive label, stretch the label to permit its application to an item to be labeled, such as a container, and apply the label in an accurate and precise location on the container. The applicator comprises three primary components: a label feeding assembly, a label separating assembly and a label stretching assembly. Various embodiments of the label feeding assembly, label separating assembly and label stretching assembly are disclosed.
US08621742B1 Ferrule lock nuts method
Apparatus and Method of use for an improved lock nut type of fastener. On a threaded rod, a set of one or two cavity locknuts are used with a sleeve like ferrule to lock a nut in a set position on the rod. For example a nut that is clamping a workpiece can be held in place (resisting if not preventing loosening) by suitable application of the ferrule and cavity locknut. The cavity locknut has a tapered funnel-like cavity in a nut face around the nut's threaded hole. Locking is accomplished by immobilizing the ferrule on the rod and against the nut to be held, orienting the cavity side of the cavity locknut toward the ferrule, and forcefully torquing the cavity nut against and around the ferrule so that it is crimped against the threaded rod by the tapered cavity in the nut.
US08621741B2 4-way compression grooved coupling
A pre-assembled pipe coupling for joining and sealing two grooved-ended pipe segments without disassembling the coupling is disclosed. The coupling has a housing with upper and lower arcuate housing segments and left and right bridge segments. Each bridge segment has at least one set of dihedrally angled faces that engage corresponding faces each in the upper and lower housing segments. Drawing the upper and lower segments inwardly together along a first axis, presses each bridge segment inward along a second axis roughly tangential to the first axis. All segments are loosely pre-assembled with bolts and nuts into a coupling and all segments each have radially inwardly projecting lands that mate with end grooves in the pipes to be joined. The coupling also has a one-piece circular sealing gasket that has an inward circumferential and centrally positioned pipe stop that has an inner diameter smaller than an outer diameter of the pipes to be joined. The gasket has two circumferential sealing lips axially outward from the pipe stop, the inner diameter each sealing lip larger than the outer diameter of the pipe segments to be joined.
US08621729B2 Buckle device
A frame member, which is approximately U-shaped in side view, has an ejector having elastic locking pieces whose tips are configured to move along long holes formed in an upper plate, mounted thereon. A permanent magnet is mounted on a slider member, at the end portion closer to a Hall IC switch. Pairs of elastic engagement pieces are inserted through the long holes respectively, and engaged with engagement portions provided at the tips of elastic engagement pieces of the ejector respectively and thus assembled. In a base member formed approximately rectangular-frame-shaped in plan view, the Hall IC switch is fitted on a Hall IC switch supporting extension, extended approximately perpendicularly outward from an end portion closer to the frame member of an outer plate positioned adjacent to the permanent magnet.
US08621726B2 Gripping assembly for securing a sheet of material
An apparatus and method of using a gripping assembly for gripping a sheet of material and attaching the sheet of material to an object is provided. The gripping assembly has a continuous ring-like member having an opening defined by an interior tapered engagement surface, a disk-like member positionable within the opening. The disk-like member has an exterior tapered engagement surface which cooperates with the tapered surface of the ring-like member. A sheet of material, threaded between the engagement surfaces is gripped by the surfaces. The disk-like member has an attachment means with at least one passageway there through. A flexible tie member extends through at least one passageway of the attachment means and is for attaching the gripping assembly to an object.
US08621725B2 Large wire anti-theft device
A large wire anti-theft device having a first body and a second body, the anti-theft device accepts passage of a large wire for inhibiting movement of a large wire by friction and compression for inhibiting movement of the large wire through the first body and the second body. A tension force applied to the large wire shall cause tightening of the first body and the second body against the large wire for preventing theft of the large wire.
US08621724B2 Headset cord holder
A headset cord holder comprising: a body configured to be coupled to at least one article from the group of articles consisting of a bag and an item of clothing, wherein the body is either part of a closure mechanism configured to releasably couple a first portion of the at least one article to a second portion of the at least one article, part of a slideable item capable of being translated along the at least one article, or part of an ornamental accessory having an aesthetic characteristic unrelated to its functional structure; and a groove built into the body, wherein the groove is configured to receive and releasably secure a headset cord.
US08621722B2 Method for the continuous production of laid staple fibre fabrics from finitely long reinforcing fibres with aligned fibre orientation
The present invention relates to a method for the continuous production of laid staple fiber fabrics with aligned fiber orientation, in which method the laid fabrics are produced by continuous plaiting down of carded fiber web at defined laying angles onto a synchronized transport belt (1), wherein the carding machine (2) and plaiting means (3) arranged downstream of it are arranged at an acute angle with respect to the advancing direction of the transport belt. Said laid staple fiber fabrics are used for producing high-strength fiber-reinforced plastic composites, as are used in wind power plants, aircraft construction and the automotive industry. In particular in the loading direction, said composites have high composite strengths and rigidities, to which end a defined fiber orientation is required. In addition to a defined orientation of the finite fibers, the laid fabrics also have a defined mass per unit area.
US08621719B2 Auxiliary handle
It is an object of the invention to provide a technique for a reduction of vibration of an auxiliary handle for a hand-held power tool. The object can be achieved by a representative auxiliary handle. The auxiliary handle includes a ring-like mounting part, a pair of bases, a rod-like grip, one or arms and an elastic region. The bases are formed on a free end of the mounting part. The bases of the mounting part and extending end portions of the arms are arranged parallel to the longitudinal direction of the grip. The bases of the mounting part and the extending end portions of the arms are clamped by a bolt and a nut such that the mounting part holds the power tool body. The elastic region is provided in at least one of the mounting part, the bases and the extending end portions of the arms.
US08621718B2 Assembly fixture for assemling a hinge to a display panel
An assembly fixture used to assemble hinges to a display panel assembly includes a base to support the display and at least one hinge mounting member fixed on the base. Each hinge mounting member includes two support bars projected from the base, a axle and a rotatable arm. The opposite ends of the axle respectively rotatably connected to the tops of the two support bars. The rotatable arm can rotated in concert with the axle. Each rotatable arm further includes at least two protruding portions to position the hinge and at least one magnetic element to attract the hinge, thereby fixing the hinge to the rotatable arm.
US08621716B2 Angle positioning device of rotation shaft and foldable electronic device having the same
An angle positioning device of a rotation shaft includes a first pivot portion and a second pivot portion. The first pivot portion includes a first face having a positioning portion, a first path and a second path divided by the positioning portion. The first pivot portion includes a second face having a returning portion, a third path and a fourth path divided by the returning portion. The second pivot portion can move along the first path, the second path, the third path, and the fourth path. When the second pivot portion moves from the first path to the second path, the pivot angle is increased. When the second pivot portion moves from the third path to the fourth path, the pivot angle is decreased. When the pivot portion moves from the first path to the positioning portion, the pivot angle cannot be decreased. The second pivot portion can move from the third path through the returning portion and back to the first path.
US08621712B2 Self closing internal hinge
A self closing enclosed hinge is placed within the tubular structure of a gate. The inventive hidden hinge cannot physically smash fingers. An internal axle physically holds together a first gate hinge connector piece which receives the upper part of the gate, an upper stationary hinge piece, and a midsection outer tubular section, which contains a bushing and a spiral spring to return the gate to a closed position. This internal axle joins the lower stationary hinge piece with the second gate hinge connector piece. The second gate hinge connector piece receives lower part of workpiece gate.
US08621711B2 Furniture glide
The invention relates to a frame for pads for pieces of furniture, in particular furniture legs, wherein the frame comprises a first floor contact layer on a first side and can be mounted detachably on the pad, wherein the frame comprises a second floor contact layer arranged on a second side of the frame which is different from the first side.
US08621707B2 Intake control for blower in vehicle wash system
A vehicle wash system may have a drying station that may have a frame and a blower mounted on the frame. The blower may be used blowing liquid from the surface of a vehicle and may have a plenum with a cavity opening, an exit port, and an interior cavity. An impeller may be positioned inside the cavity, and when driven by a motor, may be operable to draw air into the cavity compress the air, and then emit an airflow from the plenum through the exit port. The blower may have an inlet region formed proximate the cavity opening and be in communication with the cavity. The inlet region may have a generally tubular inlet opening. A movement apparatus may be provided that is movable axially relative to the inlet opening to vary the size of the tubular inlet opening. The system may also include a sensor system operable to detect the presence and/or absence of a vehicle at drying station. A controller may be in communication with the sensor system and be operable to control the position of the movement device dependent upon the presence and/or absence of a vehicle to be dried.
US08621706B2 Device for wringing liquid-absorbing wiping elements as well as mop wringer
A device for wringing liquid-absorbing wiping elements comprises a first substantially plate-shaped pressing jaw (18) and a second substantially plate-shaped pressing jaw (20) that are connected to each other at their respective first ends through a joint (40); and a pressing lever (32) connected, via a first bearing (42) in an articulated manner, to the second pressing jaw (20) at the second end of the second pressing jaw (20). The device is characterized in that the first pressing jaw (18) is arranged stationary with respect to the wringing device (10), and the pressing lever (32) comprises a knee lever portion (48) between the first bearing (42) and a second bearing (50) stationary arranged at the pressing lever (32), wherein at the second bearing (50) a knee lever member (52) is arranged that forms a rigid connection between the second bearing (50) and a third bearing (54) at the second end of the first pressing jaw (18).
US08621705B1 Spraying windshield wiper assembly
A spraying windshield wiper assembly is provided for delivering cleaning fluid to a windshield surface from a wiper arm holding a wiper blade. The assembly includes a wiper arm having a first end and a second end. The first end is configured for coupling to a vehicle. An elongated blade housing is coupled to the second end of the wiper arm. A channel extends through the blade housing. A supply tube is coupled to the wiper arm and fluidly coupled to the channel for delivering a fluid to the channel. A plurality of nozzles is coupled to the wiper arm. Each nozzle is fluidly coupled to the channel whereby each nozzle is configured for dispensing the fluid from the channel onto the windshield of the vehicle. A wiper blade is coupled to the blade housing.
US08621704B2 Cleaning element and cleaning tool
A cleaning element includes a fiber assembly having a plurality of fibers extending in a predetermined direction and a nonwoven fabric disposed on the fiber assembly. A first fusion bonded part extends in a cross direction crossing the predetermined direction to fusion bond the fiber assembly and the nonwoven fabric, and a plurality of second fusion bonded parts formed discontinuously in the cross direction at a lateral side of the first fusion bonded part to fusion bond the fiber assembly and the nonwoven fabric. The first fusion bonded part extends all the way through the fiber assembly in a thickness direction of the cleaning element. The plurality of second fusion bonded parts extend only a part of said fiber assembly in the thickness direction.
US08621697B2 Bridge cap installation system and method
A lifting device is configured to support a bridge cap when lifting the cap onto columns under a bridge deck. The lifting device includes an upper bracket arm configured to extend over an upper surface of the deck, and a lower bracket arm configured to extend under a bottom surface of the deck, and to selectively engage the cap at opposite ends of the cap. A side bracket portion connects the lower and upper arms, and is configured to transmit a force associated with a weight of the cap to the upper arm. The upper and lower arms and the side bracket portion are configured to define an open space extending from free ends of the upper and lower arms to the side bracket portion. The space is configured to receive the deck when the lifting device is supporting the cap as the cap is being lifted onto the columns.
US08621691B1 Chair/bed for the disabled
The chair/bed for the disabled is a wheeled, medical appliance for disabled persons that can alternately convert from a chair to a bed when desired. The appliance incorporates structure for applying body massages and for moving the patient in a rollover motion. Ancillary features, such as a pillow, a night light, study and dining tables and a support for mounting a television or tablet are included on the appliance. A control module is provided to allow the appliance to be operated by a remote control device.
US08621689B2 Apparatus for driving and supporting cradle and MR system having the same
An apparatus for driving and supporting cradle includes a table base and a cradle movable on the table base. The cradle includes an intermediate cradle moveable relative to the table base and an upper cradle moveable relative to the intermediate cradle. The table base is coupled to the intermediate cradle using a first rack and gear structure, and the intermediate cradle is coupled to the upper cradle using a second rack and gear structure.
US08621688B2 Siderail assembly for patient support apparatus
A siderail assembly includes a guide, a support coupled to the guide to move relative to the guide, and a barrier coupled to the guide. The barrier is movable between a lowered position, wherein the barrier is situated substantially below a frame of a patient support apparatus, and a raised position, wherein the barrier is situated substantially above the frame.
US08621685B2 Extendable folding bed frame
An extendable folding bed frame includes a pair of first sub-frames having a pair of spaced apart and extendable longitudinal bars, each longitudinal bar having a first end and a second end. The opposing longitudinal bars are fixedly connected together by a plurality of lateral support bars. The pair of first sub-frames are pivotally connected together at corresponding longitudinal bar first ends by first pivotal connecting members. The pair of first sub-frames are pivotable from an open configuration whereby each first sub-frame is aligned longitudinally to form a generally rectangular co-planar support surface and a folded configuration whereby each first sub-frame is substantially overlapped and adjacent to each other. The folding bed frame also includes a connecting bracket for attaching additional bed frames to provide a larger mattress support surface.
US08621684B2 Transfer assist apparatus
A transfer assist apparatus includes an anxiety measurement unit that detects a physical change linked to a sense of anxiety in the care-receiver and measures a degree of anxiety in the care-receiver, and a control unit that control the drive unit correspondingly to a trajectory inputted by the operation unit and performs feedback control so as to reduce the degree of anxiety measured by the anxiety measurement unit. The anxiety measurement unit detects at least one of a heart rate, an amount of perspiration, a breathing rate, an eyeball movement, an electric resistance of skin, and a skin temperature as the physical change linked to a sense of anxiety in the care-receiver. The control unit sets a speed limit of the drive unit correspondingly to the degree of anxiety measured by the anxiety measurement unit and restricts the drive speed of the drive unit not to exceed the speed limit.
US08621682B2 System for dispensing and recovering liquids and device comprising same
The invention concerns a system for dispensing and recovering liquids designed to be arranged in a rigid container, comprising a liquid dispensing tank (16) and a tank (17) for recovering liquid after use, each tank (16, 17) including an envelope (18). Each envelope (18) includes two similar walls (19, 20) comprising each an outer surface and a peripheral edge (23). Each envelope (18) has a retracted configuration wherein said walls (19, 20) are deployed one proximate the other and in an inflated configuration wherein said outer surfaces of each said wall (19, 20) are convex. At least one envelope (18) is capable, in its inflated configuration, to be nested in the other envelope (18) in its retracted configuration.
US08621680B2 Hanging shower curtain support
A hanging shower curtain support for a bathtub/shower within a bathroom having a ceiling, walls and floor, includes a plurality of hooks that are secured into the ceiling above the bathtub/shower. A plurality of chains is provided, with each chain having a bottom retainer ring hanging downwardly from each hook. A shower curtain rod is suspended from the bottom retainer rings of the chains. The shower curtain rod will hold a shower curtain therefrom, to prevent water from splashing onto the walls and the floor of the bathroom.
US08621677B2 Odour seal for a vacuum toilet drain system
The invention relates to an odor seal for a vacuum toilet drain system whose cross section in the state of no throughflow tapers off in such a way in the downstream direction that the interior walls on the downstream end of the odor seal rest against each other so that the odor seal in a downstream direction allows throughflow while in the opposite direction it blocks throughflow, wherein the downstream end of the odor seal is closed in the state of throughflow and no throughflow of the odor seal. Furthermore, the invention relates to a drainage device comprising such an odor seal and a sieve which is arranged upstream of the odor seal. Moreover, the invention relates to a vacuum toilet system for an aircraft, comprising such an odor seal or a drainage device.
US08621676B2 Sanitary washing device
A sanitary washing device includes: a nozzle including a water discharge port and configured to squirt water from the water discharge port to wash user's human private parts; a flow channel configured to supply the water to the water discharge port; a water supply device configured to supply the water; a sterilizing water producing device provided midway along the flow channel and being operable to produce sterilizing water; and a controller configured to perform control for retaining the sterilizing water produced by the sterilizing water producing device for a prescribed time in the flow channel, and then draining the sterilizing water out of the flow channel.
US08621670B2 Pair of trousers
A pair of trousers has two side seams, a front seam, a back seam, an inseam, an outer part, and an inner part. The outer part constitutes the trousers and is formed by sub-parts joined at the seams. The inner part is arranged along a front part of the outer part and is joined to the outer part at the side and front seams. The outer part is made from a first material and the inner part is made from a second material, the first material having a higher elasticity than the second material. The inner part includes at least two stitchings extending from a first side seam towards the front seam, and at least two stitchings extending from a second side seam towards the front seam which follow the shape of an abdomen of a person wearing the trousers to thereby support the abdomen.
US08621668B1 Convertible garment
A convertible winter garment converts from a cap or hat configuration to a neck gaiter, face cover, or hand warmer. The garment is a four-edged fabric with two layers such that opposing side edges of the fabric provide openings for insertion of the user's hands between the layers when the garment is used as a hand warmer. A transparent window through one layer of the garment permits observation of a mobile device held between the layers. Clips mounted along the edge opposing the longest edge can be attached to edges of the bill of a baseball cap worn by the user and anchor the garment to the baseball cap. In one embodiment, a bill having view openings is attached to the garment such that it can be used to shield the user's face from either overhead or below.
US08621667B2 Visored cloth headgear
An item of headgear comprised of a visor bill attached to a square piece of cloth along the diagonal of the cloth and slightly below the center of the cloth. The visor bill is encased in a pocket-shaped visor bill cover before it is stitched to the square piece of cloth. The present invention can be worn as a visor, or it can be opened up and wrapped over the top of the head to form the shape of a more traditional hat.
US08621666B2 Garment protective assembly
A garment such as a shirt or pants has a front layer with portions which define a central opening defined by an inner periphery and positionable to overlie a portion of the joint to be protected such as a knee or an elbow. A removable protective insert is larger than the central opening and has a unitary cap sewn thereto. The cap has an upper segment separated from a lower segment by a bending joint defined by at least one groove which extends substantially across the cap. The upper segment and the lower segment are separately fixed to the protective insert by stitching. The upper segment and the lower segment have an outwardly projecting flange which overlies the protective insert, the flange having portions which engage the front layer of the garment between the cap flange and the protective insert. A slot in the insert ventilates through the front layer.
US08621664B2 Combination headgear and eye protection system
A combination headgear assembly and protective eyewear system includes protective eyewear that attaches to a headgear assembly via magnetic connectors. The headgear assembly includes an adjustable headrest with first and second ends. The first end connects to a first spherical capsule having a first side wall, and the second end connects to a second spherical capsule having a second side wall. The protective eyewear includes a vision blade with a first end attaching via a first finger to a first telescoping member while a second end attaches via a second finger to a second telescoping member. A first magnetic connector is positioned between the first telescoping member and the first side wall of the first spherical capsule, and a second magnetic connector is positioned between the first telescoping member and the second side wall of the second spherical capsule.
US08621662B2 Adjustable shoulder device for hard upper torso suit
A suit includes a hard upper torso providing shoulder apertures. A repositionable scye bearing is arranged at a shoulder aperture. An adjustable shoulder device interconnects the scye bearing and the hard upper torso. The adjustable shoulder device is configured to move the scye bearing between first and second shoulder width positions relative to the hard upper torso. A method of donning a suit includes the steps of adjusting a scye bearing relative to a hard upper torso to a desired shoulder width position. The scye bearing can be subsequently repositioned for desired crewmember fit and use while the desired shoulder width position is maintained.
US08627510B2 Electronic device and method for operating the electronic device
The invention describes an electronic device and a method for operating the electronic device. The electronic device includes one or more circuit components. The electronic device further includes one or more fuses and one or more non-volatile memories to disable the access of at least one of the one or more circuit components. Each of the one or more non-volatile memories includes one or more firmware, which are used to program at least one bit to manage the access of the at least one circuit component. The method includes performing a power-up sequence in a power cycle for the electronic device. The method further includes determining a state of circuit and a state of a bit for selectively enabling a test function.
US08627505B2 Technique for controlling access by a client entity to a service
A technique of controlling access by a client entity to a service in a communications network. Processing modules are interconnected in the network in order to supply the service to the client entity. A processing module implements an individual function of a chain of individual functions associated with the service. The access method includes the following steps implemented by an access control device associated with an access node giving access to the service, the device being referred to as a main device: receiving a chain of processing modules from the access node; sending, to a secondary access control device associated with a processing module of the chain, a request to access the processing module under consideration, the request including an access token negotiated between the main device and the client entity; receiving a response to the access request from the secondary device; and notifying the access node of the response.
US08627494B2 Classification separation router
A method and system are provided to classify and convey data to satisfy a client request. The classification system is a two dimensional data classification system, including a first dimension pertaining to subject matter and a second dimension pertaining to data security. A partition is dynamically created, and data that satisfies the request populates the created partition to convey parsed data based satisfying both dimensions of the request.
US08627489B2 Distributed document version control
Systems and techniques to provide distributed document version control. In general, in one implementation, the technique includes: receiving a request to take an action with respect to a distributed electronic document, identifying, in response to the request, information associated with the distributed electronic document, the associated information indicating a second electronic document different from the distributed electronic document, and imparting information concerning the second electronic document to force the action to be taken with respect to the second electronic document. Receiving the request can occur at a server, and the request can be from a client to take the action with respect to the distributed electronic document, retained locally at the client. The associated information can be retained at the server, and imparting the second document information can involve relating the second document information (e.g., the second document or a link to it) from the server to the client.
US08627487B2 Method and apparatus for providing DRM service
An apparatus for providing a Digital Rights Management (DRM) service includes a Media Presentation Description (MPD) information configurer for determining a DRM system required in each of representations of content provided by an adaptive streaming service, classifying the representations into one or more groups according to predetermined criteria, and configuring MPD information by inserting content protection information including representation group information representing classified groups and information about DRM systems corresponding to the representation group information; and a communication unit for transmitting the MPD information to a user terminal receiving the content.
US08627479B2 System and method for network security including detection of attacks through partner websites
A computer readable storage medium with instructions executable on a host computer. The instructions record a relationship between a partner site and the host computer, substitute a reference to the partner site with a partner site alias referencing the host computer, deliver the partner site alias to a client, replace the partner site alias for the reference to the partner site in response to receiving the partner site alias from the client and augment the address of the client with an address alias. The address alias is sent to the partner site. A partner action and the address alias are received from the partner site. The address is exchanged for the address alias. The partner action is delivered to the client utilizing the address. These operations are monitored to identify client activity that constitutes a security threat at the host computer or the partner site.
US08627476B1 Altering application behavior based on content provider reputation
Incoming network traffic is monitored, and content-based files in the monitored incoming network traffic originating from remote sources are identified. When a specific content-based file originating from a remote source is identified, security information concerning that file is gleaned. This security information comprises at least a security reputation of the remote source from which the file originates. An attempt to open the file is identified, and a security risk rating is determined based on the security information concerning the file. In response to the security risk rating exceeding a given threshold, behavior associated with the attempt to open the file is altered. This altering of behavior can comprise, for example, disabling a scripting engine for the instance of the content processing application attempting to open the file, or altering file system and/or operating system resource access privileges.
US08627475B2 Early detection of potential malware
Evidence of attempted malware attacks may be used to identify the location and nature of future attacks. A failed attack may cause a program to crash. Crash data may be sent to an analyzer for analysis. The analysis may reveal information such as the identity of the program that is being exploited, the specific way in which the program is being exploited, and the identity or location of the source of the attack. This information may be used to identify potential sources of attack and to identify the same type of attack from other sources. When the source and/or nature of an attempted attack is known, remedial action may be taken. Filters may warn users who are attempting to visit sites from which attacks have been attempted, and the makers of programs that are being exploited can be notified so that those program makers can release updates.
US08627472B2 Determining heavy distinct hitters in a data stream
A method for determining a heavy distinct hitter (HDH) in a data stream by a data traffic monitor, the data stream comprising a plurality of element-value (e,v) pairs, includes receiving the plurality of (e,v) pairs from the data stream by an HDH module in the data traffic monitor, the HDH module being in communication with a counter block, the counter block comprising a plurality of hash functions, and further comprising a respective pair of distinct counting primitives associated with each hash function of the plurality of hash functions; and adding each of the plurality of (e,v) pairs to one of the distinct counting primitives of the respective pair of distinct counting primitives for each of the plurality of hash functions in the counter block.
US08627470B2 System and method for wireless network and physical system integration
In one embodiment, an apparatus includes an intrusion detection arrangement and a location identification arrangement. The intrusion detection arrangement determines when a client without authorization attempts to access a wireless network of which the intrusion detection arrangement is a part. The location identification arrangement identifies at least a first approximate physical location of the client without authorization when the client without authorization attempts to access the wireless network. The location identification arrangement is configured to communicate the first approximate physical location to a surveillance arrangement which monitors the first approximate physical location.
US08627469B1 Systems and methods for using acquisitional contexts to prevent false-positive malware classifications
A method for using acquisitional contexts to prevent false-positive malware classifications. The method may include (1) receiving, from at least one client-side computing device within a community of users, contextual information associated with a file, (2) determining, based at least in part on the contextual information received from the client-side computing device, a reputation rating for the file, and (3) providing the reputation rating for the file to at least one additional client-side computing device within the community in order to prevent the additional client-side computing device from falsely classifying the file as untrustworthy due to acquiring an additional instance of the file via a context that is insufficient to determine that the additional instance of the file is trustworthy. Various other methods and systems are also disclosed.
US08627466B2 Alert message control of security mechanisms in data processing systems
An authenticated secure network communication link is established between an alert message generating computer 2 and a destination data processing system 6. The alert message sent specifies a risk threat level and a suggested countermeasure amongst other data. The destination computer 6 automatically responds to the alert message as controlled by its local response configuration parameters to trigger security actions of one or more security mechanisms, such as malware scanners, firewall scanners, security policy managers and the like.
US08627465B2 Automatic inference of whitelist-based validation as part of static analysis for security
A method includes performing taint analysis of a computer program and determining an original set of paths from sources to sinks. Each path corresponds to a vulnerability. The method includes determining for each variable whose type is a collection and is accessed in one of the paths in the original set of paths whether the variable points to a concrete value whose internal state is not tainted according to the taint analysis. The method further includes, for each of the variables whose type is a collection found not to be tainted according to the taint analysis, determining all points in the computer program where a membership check against the collection is performed. The method also includes, for each of the points, determining corresponding paths and removing those paths from the original set of paths to create a reduced set of paths. Apparatus and computer readable program products are also disclosed.
US08627462B2 Token processing
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for mapping security processing rules into a data structure that facilitates a more efficient processing of the security processing rules. In one aspect, a method includes receiving security processing rules, each of the security processing rules defining one or more security checks and security operations corresponding to the security checks and that are to be performed when the security checks occur; and generating from the security processing rules a mapping of security checks to security operations, the mapping including a security check entry for each security check that is defined in one or more of the security processing rules, and each security check entry being mapped to one or more security operations that the security processing rules define as corresponding to the security check.
US08627460B2 Device function restricting method and system in specific perimeters
An apparatus and method for restricting the functions of a device are provided. A restriction monitoring system includes a communication system that provides a location-limited communication channel that detects whether a device entering a perimeter is in an area for device inspection, a server that provides a credential and a security policy to the device and receives a report on whether the device violates the security policy through the location-limited communication channel, and an alarm system which triggers a security alarm when the device violates the security policy.
US08627457B2 Integrated security system
A network device used to provide network security includes an interface configured to receive data transmitted over a network. The network device also includes a firewall, intrusion detection logic and forwarding logic. The firewall, intrusion detection logic and forwarding logic process the received data to determine whether the data contains malicious content. When the data contains malicious content, the data may be dropped before it reaches a user device to which the received data was sent. Optionally, the network device may interact with an external device in order to make the forwarding decision. In addition, the network device may subscribe to services offered by the external device to receive updated security information.
US08627456B2 Methods and systems for preventing access to display graphics generated by a trusted virtual machine
The methods and systems provide for preventing a non-trusted virtual machine from reading the graphical output of a trusted virtual machine. A graphics manager receives a request from a trusted virtual machine to render graphical data using a graphics processing unit. The graphics manager assigns, to the trusted virtual machine, a secure section of a memory of the graphics processing unit. The graphics manager renders graphics from the trusted virtual machine graphical data to the secure section of the graphics processing unit memory. The graphics manager receives a request from a non-trusted virtual machine to read graphics rendered from the trusted virtual machine graphical data and stored in the secure section of the graphics processing unit memory, and prevents the non-trusted virtual machine from reading the trusted virtual machine rendered graphics stored in the secure section of the graphics processing unit memory.
US08627454B2 Dynamic quota-based entertainment manager
A system biometrically authenticates a user that intends to use an entertainment device. The system obtains, based on the biometric authentication, one or more quotas associated with an amount of time that the user may use the entertainment device, and controls the user's use of the entertainment device based on the one or more quotas.
US08627451B2 Systems and methods for providing an isolated execution environment for accessing untrusted content
A sandbox tool can cooperate with components of a secure operating system to create an isolated execution environment for accessing untrusted content without exposing other processes and resources of the computing system to the untrusted content. The sandbox tool can allocate resources (storage space, memory, etc) of the computing system, which are necessary to access the untrusted content, to the isolated execution environment, and apply security polices of the operating system to the isolated execution environment such that untrusted content running in the isolated execution environment can only access the resources allocated to the isolated execution environment.
US08627449B2 Dynamic tunneling over virtual private network connections based on network conditions
Techniques are provided for transmitting data securely across virtual private network (VPN) connections. A first VPN connection is initiated between a first device and a second device. The second device selects a first communication protocol to be used for the first VPN connection with the first device. The first device generates session identification data associated with the first VPN connection and sends the session identification data to the second device over the first VPN. The second device receives the session identification data and stores it. The second device determines when the first VPN connection has been disrupted. The second device then selects a second communication protocol and initiates a second VPN connection using the second communication protocol with the first device. The second device transmits the session identification data to the first device, and the first device associates the second VPN connection with the first VPN connection using session identification data.
US08627447B1 Provisioning layer three access for agentless devices
A method may include obtaining a layer two identification of an endpoint that is seeking access to a network, the endpoint omitting an agent to communicate a layer three address of the endpoint to a policy node, applying one or more authentication rules based on the layer two identification of the endpoint, assigning the layer three address to the endpoint, learning, by the policy node, the layer three address of the endpoint, and provisioning layer three access for the endpoint to the network based on the learned layer three address.
US08627445B2 Proxy connection method and adapter to IMS/MMD network
A client for IPv4 having a SIP function sends a first REGISTER message to an adapter. Then, the adapter executes an authentication sequence of EAP-AKA for an access gateway connected between an IMS/MMD network and an IPv4 network, then establishes a tunnel connection. Then, the adapter generates a second REGISTER message corresponding to IPv6 based on the first REGISTER message corresponding to IPv4. The adapter sends the second REGISTER message to a SIP server connected to the IMS/MMD network through the tunnel connection to the access gateway.
US08627444B2 Computers and microchips with a faraday cage, with a side protected by an internal hardware firewall and unprotected side connected to the internet for network operations, and with internal hardware compartments
A personal computer or microchip comprising at least one Faraday Cage, two or more microprocessors or processing units and an internal hardware firewall. The internal hardware firewall is configured to separate a protected side of the computer or microchip from an unprotected side of the computer or microchip. The unprotected side being configured to connect to a network including the Internet. The protected hardware side of the computer or microchip includes at least one microprocessor or processing unit. The unprotected network side of the computer or microchip is located between the internal hardware firewall and the network and includes the unprotected microprocessors or processing units. At least one of the unprotected microprocessors or processing units is not a network communications component and is a separate component from the internal hardware firewall. The computer or microchip can include two, four, or more internal hardware compartments.
US08627443B2 Network adapter firewall system and method
A network adapter system and associated method are provided. Included is a network adapter having a plurality of designated trusted and untrusted ports. The network adapter includes a processor coupled to a computer. Such processor is further coupled to a network via the ports. In use, the processor is configured for conditionally preventing network traffic from accessing the computer from the network via the untrusted ports and/or preventing unauthorized software from accessing the network in an untrusted manner from the computer.
US08627442B2 Hierarchical rule development and binding for web application server firewall
At least one of an HTTP request message and an HTTP response message is intercepted. A corresponding HTTP message model is identified. The HTTP message model includes a plurality of message model sections. Additional steps include parsing a representation of the at least one of an HTTP request message and an HTTP response message into message sections in accordance with the message model sections of the HTTP message model; and binding a plurality of security rules to the message model sections. The plurality of security rules each specify at least one action to be taken in response to a given condition. The given condition is based, at least in part, on a corresponding given one of the message sections. A further step includes processing the at least one of an HTTP request message and an HTTP response message in accordance with the plurality of security rules. Techniques for developing rules for a web application server firewall are also provided.
US08627440B2 PassThru for client authentication
This disclosure pertains generally to client authentication. One aspect of the disclosure relates to a first server for presenting evidence to a Domain Controller (DC) of a first authentication context being submitted from a client to the first server to obtain a delegable credential, wherein the credential can be used to request a second authentication context from that client to a second server. Another aspect relates to the first server providing a pass-thru with evidence to a DC. The evidence relates to a first authentication context being submitted from a client to the first server that it obtained a delegable credential. The pass-thru is used in combination with the credential to request a second authentication context from the client to a second server.
US08627439B2 Processing communication events in a communications system
A method of communicating over a communications system includes determining that a communication event at a user terminal of the communications system requires use of a feature for processing data, the communication event being over the communications system and determining that the feature required by the communication event is not enabled for use at the user terminal when the communication event is initiated. Following the step of determining that the feature is not enabled, the method further includes retrieving a certificate enabling the use of the feature at the user terminal and using the feature at the user terminal to process data of the communication event.
US08627433B2 System and method for authenticating a request for access to a secured device
A method for authenticating a request for access comprises monitoring one or more ambient transmissions present in a local environment, analyzing the one or more ambient transmissions to create a characterization thereof, and transmitting information configured to instruct a security token regarding characteristics of an adapted transmission protocol based on the characterization. The adapted transmission protocol is configured for decreasing a likelihood of interference by the one or more ambient transmissions with reception of an authentication transmission from the security token. An authentication transmission comprising authentication information is received from the security token, and the security token is authenticated based on the authentication information. In response to a request for access, a signal is transmitted to a controller indicating the request is authentic. A system for authenticating a request for access comprises a secured device configured for use with a security token and for monitoring one or more ambient transmissions.
US08627432B2 Web browser playback for a video provisioning system
A method, performed by a video provisioning system, may include receiving a request for a first digital rights management (DRM) token, associated with a video asset purchased via the video provisioning system, from a browser application associated with a user device and providing the first DRM token to the browser application. The method may further include receiving a license authorization request to issue a DRM license for the video asset, where the license authorization request is received from a license server, where the DRM license is to be used by the user device to decrypt the video asset, and where the license authorization request includes a second DRM token; determining whether the second DRM token matches the first DRM token; and authorizing the license server to issue the DRM license for the video asset, when the second DRM token matches the first DRM token.
US08627431B2 Distributed network name
Aspects of the subject matter described herein relate to a distributed network name. In aspects, computers of a cluster have components of a distributed network name service. The network name service has a leader and clones that are hosted on the computers of the cluster. The leader is responsible for updating a name server with network names and addresses of the computers. The leader is also responsible for configuring a security server that allows clients to securely access the computers. The network name service provides credentials to local security authorities of the computers so that a client that attempts to access a service of the computers can be authenticated.
US08627426B2 Cloud platform architecture
A cloud computing environment provides the ability to deploy a web application that has been developed using one of a plurality of application frameworks and is configured to execute within one of a plurality of runtime environments. The cloud computing environment receives the web application in a package compatible with the runtime environment (e.g., a WAR file to be launched in an application server, for example) and dynamically binds available services by appropriately inserting service provisioning data (e.g., service network address, login credentials, etc.) into the package. The cloud computing environment then packages an instance of the runtime environment, a start script and the package into a web application deployment package, which is then transmitted to an application (e.g., container virtual machine, etc.). The application container unpacks the web application deployment package, installs the runtime environment, loads the web application package into the runtime environment and starts the start script, thereby deploying the web application in the application container.
US08627420B2 Apparatus for associating a client device or service with a wireless network
A network association apparatus includes identification information and an authorization credential associated with a specific client device or service to be connected to a wireless network. The apparatus is configured to automatically provide the identification information and the authorization credential to a host device of a wireless network in a secure fashion when brought into close proximity to or physically connected with the host of the wireless network. The apparatus may comprise an RFID tag.
US08627419B1 Multiple image reverse turing test
In a Reverse Turing Test an applicant seeking access to a computer process is presented with an image containing human-readable data that is intended to be inaccessible to an automated process or bot. In an improved Reverse Turing Test the applicant is presented with multiple sub-images that have to be rearranged in order to yield the overall image. This does not substantially increase a human applicant's difficulty in dealing with the test, but makes it much more difficult for a bot to interpret the image.
US08627417B2 Login administration method and server
When a login request in which a network terminal serves as a login destination is received from an administrator terminal, a login request receiving unit of a login administration server causes the administrator terminal to transmit a shared account and fingerprint information. A search engine unit performs a search in an authentication table by using the account and the user fingerprint information as a key, and, when the authentication succeeds, acquires association data including a right upon successful authentication and a login permitted terminal from an association data table. A login request transmitting unit transmits a login request to the network terminal of the login destination so as to achieve login and imparts the right upon successful authentication. Furthermore, the login request transmitting unit transmits a login request to the unprocessed network terminal so as to achieve login and imparts the right upon successful authentication.
US08627413B2 System and method for authorization and management of connections and attachment of resources
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a method and system for authorization management and resource attachment. The method includes receiving, within an electronic system, a notification of an emulated device operable to be provisioned and updating an authorization record of an authorization record datastore. The updating of the authorization record comprises updating routing information related to communication of the emulated device and a virtual device. The method further includes receiving a request for initial instantiation or reconnection of the emulated device with the virtual device and determining whether the emulated device and the virtual device are allowed to communicate based on the authorization record datastore. A response to the request for instantiation or reconnection can then be sent.
US08627410B2 Dynamic radius
A system includes a remote authentication dial in user service (RADIUS) server in communication with a network access server. The network access server provides an authentication request to the RADIUS server. The authentication request includes at least a user identifier and a device identifier. The RADIUS server determines an authentication format utilized by the network access server based on the received authentication request. The system may also determine an authorization level to provide with an authentication response.
US08627409B2 Framework for automated dissemination of security metadata for distributed trust establishment
Methods, systems, and machine-readable media for disseminating security metadata from one distributed entity to another in an automated fashion are disclosed. According to one embodiment of the present invention, a computer-implemented method for distributing security metadata comprises receiving at a first service a request for security metadata, the request being received from a process associated with a second service. The method further comprises generating an identifier and security metadata for the second service, the identifier and the security metadata being unique to the second service, and storing the identifier and the security metadata in a first memory accessible to the first service. The identifier and the security metadata are then transmitted to the process associated with the second service and stored in a second memory. The second service is configured to access the security metadata stored in the second memory to encrypt a first communication and decrypt a second communication.
US08627402B2 Evaluation systems and methods for coordinating software agents
A device, method, computer program product, and network subsystem are described for associating a first mobile agent with a first security policy and a second mobile agent with a second security policy or for providing a first agent with code for responding to situational information about the first agent and about a second agent and for evaluating a received message at least in response to an indication of the first security policy and to an indication of the second security policy or for deploying the first agent.
US08627382B2 Multiple dwelling unit satellite television delivery system
Systems for delivering satellite signals to multiple dwelling units (MDUs). A system in accordance with the present invention comprises an antenna for receiving the satellite signals, a conversion unit, coupled to the antenna, for stacking the satellite signals onto a single cable, a distribution unit, coupled to the conversion unit, wherein the distribution unit distributes the stacked satellite signal to a plurality of outputs, and at least one customer device, coupled to an output of the plurality of outputs, wherein each unit in the MDU uses the customer device to destack the stacked satellite signals for delivery to a receiver.
US08627377B2 Method and system for providing usage information for a set-top box
A method and system for providing usage information for a set-top box is disclosed. An embodiment is disclosed that receives a request for usage information for a set-top box and the usage information has media content received by the set-top box, queries a database with a query based upon the request and the request has criteria for usage information, and sends a query result for the query.
US08627374B2 Video content search system and method with automatic multi-term grouping and search
A search based video interface system and method is disclosed. Search results are dynamically filtered based on automatic combinations of search terms.
US08627373B2 System and method for presenting media services
A system and method for presenting media services is disclosed. A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a media system having a controller element that contextually associates a plurality of portals with a corresponding plurality of multimedia broadcast channels as an aggregated service offering. Other embodiments are disclosed.
US08627371B2 System and method of applying user profiles at a set-top box device
A method of applying user profiles at a set-top box device includes receiving data associated with each of a plurality of user profiles at the set-top box device, the plurality of user profiles including a default profile and a supplemental profile. The method also includes automatically applying the supplemental profile to at least one set-top box action after a start time associated with the supplemental profile occurs. Further, the method includes automatically applying the default profile to the at least one set-top box action after an end time associated with the supplemental profile occurs.
US08627364B2 Digital system and method of processing service data thereof
A digital system and a method of processing service data thereof are disclosed. The digital system includes a first device configured to transmit at least one of device information and device location information of a first device to a second device which is connected to the first device, receive service data from the second device, the service data being extracted based upon at least one of the device information and the device location information of the first device, process and output the service data on a screen, transmit a command signal which is selected from the outputted service data to the second device and receive respond data corresponding to the command signal from the second device and outputting the respond data on the screen.
US08627359B2 Method and system for automatically targeting ads to television media using demographic similarity
Described herein is a system and method of ad targeting that automatically matches advertisements to media based on the demographic signatures of each. The method and system include calculating a match score between historical buyer demographics and media demographics. Media which is similar to the demographic of the product buyers is targeted for advertising.
US08627355B2 System and method for displaying selected information to a person undertaking exercises
A system for displaying selected information to a person undertaking exercises includes a physical data assessment unit, a physical data gathering unit, and a motion template database. The physical data gathering unit and the motion template database are in communication with the physical data assessment unit. The system further includes an impairment profile generator, an information database including audiovisual information to be displayed to the person according to the impairment profile, and an audiovisual display unit. The information database and the audiovisual display unit are in communication with the impairment profile generator and the impairment profile generator is in communication with the physical data assessment unit. Information such as advertisements is displayed on display to the person where advertisement selection rules are based on Bayesian inference.
US08627349B2 User interface
A method of providing access to a block of stored content includes transmitting a general EPG at a content receiver for display on a presentation device, the EPG including a plurality of channels having a plurality of programs available at a plurality of times, receiving input from a user to display a block guide, and transmitting the block guide wherein, the block guide is associated with the block of stored content for accessing the block of stored content, the block guide including a plurality of channels having a plurality of programs available for a selected airing time.
US08627347B1 System and method for generating and providing a program viewing indicator
A method, system, and computer program product. The method includes: receiving a display power consumption level indicator; determining, in response to the display power consumption level indicator, whether a program that is sent to a signal converter that is coupled to the display, is being displayed on the display; and transmitting to a remote system, by the signal converter, and in response to the determining, a program viewing indicator.
US08627346B2 Disc cartridge
A disc cartridge includes a case body for receiving disc-shaped recording media in an axial direction of a central shaft so that first and second shells respectively having a base surface portion parallel to a recording surface of the disc-shaped recording media are coupled separated by axial engagement/disengagement; and a lock lever supported perpendicular to the axial direction in the case body and locking the shells coupled. The shells are separated to form a disc insertion/extraction hole for the insert or discharge of the disc-shaped recording media into/from the case body. A support shaft serving as a pivoting point of the lock lever is installed to the case body. The lock lever includes a supported portion supported by the support shaft, a lock portion protruding from the supported portion and locking the shells, and a balance portion protruding from the supported portion approximately opposite to protrusion of the lock portion.
US08627340B2 Managing events generated from business objects
A method, system, and computer program product for managing events generated from business objects in a business transactions environment are provided in the illustrative embodiments. A first event being raised by a business object in a plurality of business objects configured in a business entity is detected. The business entity executes in the data processing system and provides a function for processing a request. A determination is made whether a second event has been detected prior to the first event and during the processing of the request. In response to the determining being affirmative, first event data associated with the first event is combined with second event data stored from the second event. The combining results in consolidated event data. The consolidated event data is published in response to the request upon completing the processing of the request.
US08627339B2 Service-oriented architecture component processing model
A service-oriented architecture can include a service provider comprising a plurality of service objects, each service object comprising a self-describing, self-contained, platform independent, modular unit of application logic. The service oriented architecture further includes a service object among the plurality of service objects that is a service implementation having a pre-ordained message processing system. The service implementation can respond to client requests at different levels of granularity and can use a common transfer object message format that separates a business object into its constituent parts. The common set of operations can include at least the Read, Create, Update, Delete, and Execute functions.
US08627333B2 Message queuing with flexible consistency options
Embodiments of the invention relate to message queuing. In one embodiment, a request from an application for retrieving a message from a queue is received. The queue is stored across multiple nodes of a distributed storage system. A preference with respect to message order and message duplication associated with the queue is identified. A message sequence index associated with the queue is sampled based on the preference that has been identified. The message is selected in response to the sampling. The message that has been selected is made unavailable to other applications for a given interval of time, while maintaining the message in the queue. The message is sent to the application.
US08627331B1 Multi-level parallelism of process execution in a mutual exclusion domain of a processing system
A technique is described for improving throughput in a processing system, such as a network storage server. The technique provides multiple levels (e.g., a hierarchy) of parallelism of process execution within a single mutual exclusion domain, in a manner which allows certain operations on metadata to be parallelized as well as certain operations on user data. The specific parallelization scheme used in any given embodiment is based at least partly on the underlying metadata structures used by the processing system. Consequently, a high degree of parallelization possible, which improves the throughput of the processing system.
US08627329B2 Multithreaded physics engine with predictive load balancing
A circuit arrangement and method utilize predictive load balancing to allocate the workload among hardware threads in a multithreaded physics engine. The predictive load balancing is based at least in part upon the detection of predicted future collisions between objects in a scene, such that the reallocation of respective loads of a plurality of hardware threads may be initiated prior to detection of the actual collisions, thereby increasing the likelihood that hardware threads will be optimally allocated when the actual collisions occur.
US08627323B2 Utilizing user-defined workflow policies to automate changes made to composite workflows
Automating changes to a composite workflow using user-defined workflow policies can begin with the detection of a state change by a workflow policy handler for a record of an instance of a composite workflow running within a composite workflow system. User-defined workflow policies can be identified for the composite workflow in which the change was detected. A user-defined workflow policy can define policy actions to be performed if policy conditions are satisfied. For each identified user-defined workflow policy, the applicability to the instance of the composite workflow can be determined. If an identified user-defined workflow policy is determined to be applicable, the policy actions can be automatically performed on the instance of the composite workflow.
US08627322B2 System and method of active risk management to reduce job de-scheduling probability in computer clusters
Systems and methods are provided for generating backup tasks for a plurality of tasks scheduled to run in a computer cluster. Each scheduled task is associated with a target probability for execution, and is executable by a first cluster element and a second cluster element. The system classifies the scheduled tasks into groups based on resource requirements of each task. The system determines the number of backup tasks to be generated. The number of backup tasks is determined in a manner necessary to guarantee that the scheduled tasks satisfy the target probability for execution. The backup tasks are desirably identical for a given group. And each backup task can replace any scheduled task in the given group.
US08627317B2 Automatic identification of bottlenecks using rule-based expert knowledge
Execution states of tasks are inferred from collection of information associated with runtime execution of a computer system. Collection of information may include infrequent samples of executing tasks, the samples which may provide inaccurate executing states. One or more tasks may be aggregated by one or more execution states for determining execution time, idle time, or system policy violations, or combinations thereof.
US08627316B2 Mobile communications device application processing system
A system and method of pre-linking classes for use by one or more applications. The system and method may also be used where the runtime processing is split between a host system and a target system. At the host system at least several classes are loaded and linked. At least one host-linked module is generated from the linked classes. The host-linked module is made available for use by the one or more applications operating on the target system.
US08627314B2 Method for managing power of host computer
In a method for managing power of host computers using a control computer, the method generates a power management command, groups virtual machines installed in the host computers at a first time if the power management command is a first type, to obtain a first group of the virtual machines. The method further relocates the virtual machines in the host computers based on the first group of the virtual machines, and closes idle host computers. Closed host computers are powered on if the power management command is the second type, all the virtual machines at a second time are grouped, to obtain a second group of the virtual machines. The virtual machines are relocated into each host computer based on the second group of the virtual machines.
US08627313B2 Virtual machine liveness determination
A data center can share processing resources using virtual networks. A hosting program 9,10 hosts one or more virtual machines 11, 12. The program has a virtual interface VIF 1 14, to the virtual machines, a network interface 19 to enable communication between the virtual machines and other nodes of a network, and an infrastructure management interface 8, invisible to the virtual machines. The program has an intercept function 7 implemented as a comparator, switch or router, arranged to intercept a status message from one of the virtual machines, or applications run by that virtual machine. The status indication is sent to a status buffer 5 and is made available to the infrastructure management interface without providing a network path between the management interface and the virtual machine. This can discriminate between VM failure and communication failure, and the invisibility maintains isolation and helps avoid vulnerability to denial of service attack.
US08627310B2 Capturing multi-disk virtual machine images automatically
A plurality of virtual disk images are established on a virtual machine. The virtual machine identifies corresponding network address translations for a plurality of disks, each having a corresponding plurality of data sets. The virtual machine installs the corresponding plurality of data sets to the plurality of virtual disks using the corresponding network address translations. An image of the plurality of disks is created, wherein the image contains the plurality of virtual disks with the plurality of data sets.
US08627304B2 Vectorization of program code
A method for vectorization of a block of code is provided. The method comprises receiving a first block of code as input; and converting the first block of code into at least a second block of code and a third block of code. The first block of code accesses a first set of memory addresses that are potentially misaligned. The second block of code performs conditional leaping address incrementation to selectively access a first subset of the first set of memory addresses. The third block of code accesses a second subset of the first set of memory addresses starting from an aligned memory address, simultaneously accessing multiple memory addresses at a time. No memory address belongs to both the first subset and the second subset of memory addresses.
US08627302B2 Sampling based runtime optimizer for efficient debugging of applications
A method of reproducing runtime environment for debugging an application includes reading an optimizer file from a non-volatile storage medium. The optimizer file includes a runtime environment, application definition information, and a log. The log includes summaries of events, actions, and a time mark of occurrence for each of the actions. A runtime environment for debugging the application is then defined and the application runtime is set up using the application definition information in the optimizer file. Further, the method includes running the application, attaching an optimizer, and triggering each of the actions to occur at a time mark of occurrence associated with each of the actions. Then, each of the actions and associated events is analyzed by comparing the events produced by running the application with the events in the optimizer file. If a fault is produced by the triggering, a debugger is invoked to analyze the fault.
US08627296B1 Unified unit and integration test with automatic mock creation
Computer code for a mock object is automatically generated and used in testing computer program code. Interactions with a method of an object that is described by the computer program code are captured. From the captured interactions, mock code that creates a mock object is automatically generated. The mock object mimics the captured interactions. Subsequently, test code, which has at least some of the computer program code and mock code, is executed to enable testing of the computer program code.
US08627291B2 Identification of localizable function calls
Detecting localizable native methods may include statically analyzing a native binary file of a native method. For each function call invoked in the native binary, it is checked whether resources accessed through the function call is locally available or not. If all resources accessed though the native method is locally available, the method is annotated as localizable.
US08627289B2 Detecting configuration problems in an eclipse-based software application
Detecting configuration problems in an ECLIPSE-based software application can be detected. Such a method can begin with the receipt of a user-command to test a configuration of an ECLIPSE-based software application or with a detection of a feature addition/update when an auto-testing feature is enabled. Information about the available sites for the ECLIPSE-based application can then be obtained. Then, a list of software elements required to operate the ECLIPSE-based software application can be compiled. At least one data attribute can be extracted from the meta data of each software element in the compiled list. The extracted data attributes can then be analyzed. When the analysis identifies a configuration problem, the existence of the configuration problem can be validated.
US08627283B2 Graphical user interface with a background class loading event system
According to one aspect of the invention, a method for searching for a particular type of class file and a graphical user interface for displaying the names of the class files of the particular type are provided. A first class file is searched for a particular feature. If the class file contains the feature, the name of the class file is displayed. A second class file may then be searched and displayed if it contains the same feature. The names of all class files having the feature may then be displayed in a menu on the graphical user interface. The graphical user interface may also include a window displaying a list of features. When one of the features is selected, the names of all the class files having the feature are displayed in the menu.
US08627282B1 Wide-spectrum type system incorporating representation types, correctness types, coercions, and function overload resolution
In an embodiment of the invention, one or more tangible non-transitory computer-readable storage media may store the following instructions. Defining representation type spaces R1 and R2 and correctness type spaces C1 and C2 over the representation type spaces R1 and R2, respectively. Defining a representation type space R and a correctness type space C over the representation type space R, such that a semilattice associated with the correctness type space C is a function semilattice over respective semilattices associated with the correctness type spaces C1 and C2.
US08627281B2 Method, computer program and computer system for converting source code written in dynamically typed language into target code written in statically typed language and executing target code
The present invention provides a method for converting source code written in a dynamically typed language into target code written in a statically typed language. The method includes the step of generating in a storage device the target code from the source code, the step of generating the target code including storing in a buffer a signature of a function/method used by a caller in the source code. In this step, generation of an interface class is delayed to a time point immediately before execution of a part of the target code corresponding to the function/method call by the caller, the interface class being needed to generate the caller and serving as an interface in the statically typed language. The method also includes the step of generating in the storage device a consolidated interface class for all signatures stored in the buffer, and loading the generated consolidated interface class from the storage device. In this step, all the signatures in the buffer are deleted upon generation of the consolidated interface class.
US08627278B2 Freehand system and method for creating, editing, and manipulating block diagrams
A method of integrating freehand user input into a block diagram environment is disclosed. The freehand user input is a user's approximation of a diagram component or feature of a component which is received by the block diagram environment and compared to multiple patterns stored in a storage location. The storage location holds patterns of block diagram components and block diagram component features. The freehand user input may be displayed, superimposed on a block diagram being shown to the user. Upon the freehand user input being matched to one of the patterns representing a block diagram component or feature of a component, the freehand user input is replaced on the displayed block diagram with an electronic device drawn rendering of the matched diagram feature component or feature of a component. Partial matches of the user drawn input may result in a menu of choices being presented to the user for selection.
US08627277B2 Machine driven process for user interface driven data modeling collaboration
A computer implemented method and computer program product build a data-bound user interface. An instruction from a graphical designer is received for creating the presentation field within the presentation user interface. When the presentation field is created, a corresponding data element is created within a reserved data model, and the presentation field is automatically bound to the data element. Instructions from a data modeler are received for relocating the data element from within the reserved data model to within a custom data model. The data element is relocated to the custom model, and the binding from the presentation field to the data element is maintained. The data bound user interface is then built, including the presentation field and the data element.
US08627275B1 Technique for acquiring data storage metrics
A technique for acquiring information about a data storage system employs compiled software constructs and an uncompiled file external to the compiled software constructs. The uncompiled file stores data inquiry definitions, such as select query and view definitions. The compiled software constructs incorporate the data inquiry definitions from the uncompiled file into database language instructions, which the compiled software constructs send to a database for processing. Results of processing the database language instructions are returned to the compiled software constructs, which return the results to an application program or other client that requested them.
US08627272B1 Traceability in a modeling environment
Exemplary embodiments employ a mapping among entities that are related to each other. The entities may include a graphical model, generated code, a generated report, a requirements document and/or an intermediate representation. The mapping may facilitate graphical identifications between parts of one entity that maps to part of another entity. The graphical identification may occur based on a selection of a part in one of the entities.
US08627268B2 System and method for a non-sequential undo mechanism
A system and method for a non-sequential undo mechanism is presented. An action removal manager stores program states and action descriptions that it receives from a user in a program log corresponding to a software application. In turn, the action removal manager allows the user to remove an action from the program log without first removing actions subsequent to the action that, as a result, undoes an action to a file without undoing subsequent actions to the file. In one embodiment, the undo request includes a request to remove two or more actions from the program log. In this embodiment, the action removal manager evaluates the earliest action description to remove in the program log and then proceeds to evaluate subsequent action descriptions for removal.
US08627260B1 Bit-level simplification of word-level models
Computer implemented techniques for simplification of models are disclosed including various manipulations that are useful in logic analysis, verification, and re-synthesis. A high word-level representation is obtained along with a bit-level design representation. A map between the word-level representation and the bit-level representation is produced. Optimizations are performed on the bit-level representation with the results being lifted and included in the word-level representation, based on the map. Similar optimizations are performed on the word-level representation and translated to the bit-level representation.
US08627259B2 Capacitance modification without affecting die area
According to one exemplary embodiment, a method for adjusting geometry of a capacitor includes fabricating a first composite capacitor residing in a first standard cell with a first set of process parameters. The method further includes using a second standard cell having substantially same dimensions as the first standard cell. The method further includes using a capacitance value from the first composite capacitor to adjust a geometry of a second composite capacitor residing in the second standard cell, wherein the second composite capacitor is fabricated with a second set of process parameters. The geometry of the second composite capacitor can be adjusted to cause the second composite capacitor to have a capacitance value substantially equal to the capacitance value from the first composite capacitor.
US08627257B2 Method of designing nonvolatile memory device
In a computer-implemented method of designing a nonvolatile memory device, first parameters associated with external environmental conditions are set. Second parameters associated with structural characteristics and internal environmental conditions are set. A first initial operation condition associated with an erase operation is determined based on the first and second parameters. A second initial operation condition associated with a program operation is determined based on the first and second parameters and the first initial operation condition. A final operation condition associated with reliability is determined based on the first and second parameters, and the first and second initial operation condition.
US08627251B2 Systems and methods of automatically detecting failure patterns for semiconductor wafer fabrication processes
A system and method of automatically detecting failure patterns for a semiconductor wafer process is provided. The method includes receiving a test data set collected from testing a plurality of semiconductor wafers, forming a respective wafer map for each of the wafers, determining whether each respective wafer map comprises one or more respective objects, selecting the wafer maps that are determined to comprise one or more respective objects, selecting one or more object indices for selecting a respective object in each respective selected wafer map, determining a plurality of object index values in each respective selected wafer map, selecting an object in each respective selected wafer map, determining a respective feature in each of the respective selected wafer, classifying a respective pattern for each of the respective selected wafer maps and using the respective wafer fingerprints to adjust one or more parameters of the semiconductor fabrication process.
US08627242B1 Method for making photomask layout
A method for making a photomask layout is provided. A first graphic data of a photomask is provided, wherein the first graphic data includes a first line with a first line end target, a second line with a second line end target and a hole, the first line is aligned with the second line, and the first line, the second line and the hole partially overlap with each other. Thereafter, a retarget step is performed to the first graphic data to obtain a second graphic data, wherein the retarget step includes moving the first line end target and the second line end target in opposite directions away from each other.
US08627241B2 Pattern correction with location effect
The present disclosure provides one embodiment of an integrated circuit (IC) method. The method includes receiving an IC design layout having a plurality of IC regions each including an IC pattern; performing a dissection process to the IC design layout; and performing a correction process to the IC design layout using a correction model that includes proximity effect and location effect. The correction process includes performing a first correction step to a first IC region of the IC regions, resulting in a first corrected IC pattern in the first IC region; and performing a second correction step to a second IC region of the IC regions, starting with the first corrected IC pattern, resulting in a second corrected IC pattern.
US08627239B2 Mask fabrication supporting method, mask blank providing method, and mask blank dealing system
A mask blank is provided by forming a plurality of films, including at least a thin film to be a transfer pattern, on a board. At the time of patterning a resist film of the mask blank according to pattern data, film information to check with a pattern is obtained for each of a plurality of the films.
US08627237B2 Unlocking a device by performing gestures on an unlock image
A device with a touch-sensitive display may be unlocked via gestures performed on the touch-sensitive display. The device is unlocked if contact with the display corresponds to a predefined gesture for unlocking the device. The device displays one or more unlock images with respect to which the predefined gesture is to be performed in order to unlock the device. The performance of the predefined gesture with respect to the unlock image may include moving the unlock image to a predefined location and/or moving the unlock image along a predefined path. The device may also display visual cues of the predefined gesture on the touch screen to remind a user of the gesture.
US08627236B2 Terminal and control method thereof
Disclosed is a mobile terminal and a control method thereof capable of displaying an image or data in a particular object shape. When an image list is displayed and then any one particular image of the list is selected, the selected image is converted into a particular preset object shape to be displayed if the selected image is a panorama-type image.
US08627235B2 Mobile terminal and corresponding method for assigning user-drawn input gestures to functions
A method of controlling a mobile terminal, the method including displaying, via a controller, at least one first function icon on a touchscreen of the mobile terminal, assigning, via the controller, a first input gesture to the displayed first function icon such that a first function corresponding to the first function icon is executed when the first input gesture is performed on the mobile terminal, and removing, via the controller, the first function icon from the touchscreen of the mobile terminal after the first gesture has been assigned to the first function icon.
US08627233B2 Radial menu with overshoot, fade away, and undo capabilities
Embodiments of the invention are generally related to graphical user interfaces (GUIs), and more specifically to selecting items from a radial menu. More specifically, embodiments of the invention provide a complex set of gestures which, when performed using a screen pointer, facilitate fast and accurate selection of radial menu items from a radial menu. The gestures may generally involve a first movement of the screen pointer to activate a desired radial menu item, and a second predefined movement of the screen pointer to select the radial menu item.
US08627231B2 List-position locator
A method, system, and medium are provided for efficiently locating a desired item within an ordered list of items, such as a list of contacts, pictures, or football teams. An illustrative method includes presenting a selectable option on a mobile device's display, presenting a positional indicator on the display when the selectable option has been selected that indicates to the user its position within the ordered list of items, and if the selectable option is moved, dynamically indicating the positional indicator's position among the list of items. The selection of the selectable option may be made by any object, such as a finger or stylus. Further, releasing the selection of the selectable option, such as removing the object used from the display, allows for a display of an item in the ordered list of items that corresponds to the position of the positional indicator.
US08627225B2 Apparatus and methods for ensuring closure of displays
Devices, systems and methods for controlling displays in a multi-display environment are disclosed. An exemplary method may create a request to close a display in response to a request inputted to the display system. The method may generate a display monitoring thread in response to a request inputted to the display system. The method may determine if the display has closed and create a second request to close a display when the display has not closed.
US08627222B2 Expanded search and find user interface
A search and find user interface is provided that is integrated with a data indexing engine to allow efficient and high-speed data search and retrieval across data storage folders associated with a given software module or associated with a number of disparate software modules. An expanded form of the search and find user interface is provided for advanced searching. Where searching is required beyond a present search scope, an automatic “upscoping” mechanism is provided for expanding a search to data storage folders outside a current data storage folder on which an initial search is executed.
US08627221B2 Generation and data management of a medical study using instruments in an integrated media and medical system
In general, a computer-implemented method is described for receiving one or more requests to generate a medical study, retrieving from one or more data repositories one or more medical study instruments, receiving a selection of a particular medical study instrument to use in the medical study, generating by one or more computers a list of one or more research collaborators invited to review the medical study, and generating by one or more computers a list of one of more participants invited to join the medical study.
US08627219B2 Equipment with dual screens for controlling multi-computers and the operating method thereof
An equipment for controlling a plurality of computers and the operating method thereof are provided. The equipment electrically connects to a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) module and a touch LCD module and a plurality of computer respectively, where the LCD module receives and displays an image of one of the plurality of computers, the touch LCD module displays an imaging inputting interface and at least one of the images corresponding to the plurality of computers, and the imaging inputting interface receives a command to control the specific computer.
US08627216B2 Rendering hypertext markup language content
In general, one aspect of the subject matter described in this specification can be embodied in a method that includes rendering Hyper Text Markup Language (HTML) content, in an HTML rendering engine, to primitives of a vector graphics rendering engine; rendering the primitives, in the vector graphics rendering engine, to provide a user interface; receiving an input event via the user interface; determining, in the HTML rendering engine, a change in appearance for the user interface based on the input event; and updating at least one of the primitives for rendering by the vector graphics rendering engine in accordance with the change in appearance to update the user interface.
US08627213B1 Chat room system to provide binaural sound at a user location
A chat room system is provided that includes sending a signal representative of a sound at a first user location to a second user location and establishing, in a chat room, a virtual first user location and a virtual second user location. It further includes establishing the orientation of a listening system at the second user location and processing the signal, using the orientation of the listening system, at a plurality of levels of realism to provide a binaural sound at the second user location having an analogous spatial relationship between the second user location and the first user location as the virtual spatial relationship between the virtual second user location and the virtual first user location.
US08627212B2 System and method for embedding a view of a virtual space in a banner ad and enabling user interaction with the virtual space within the banner ad
A system and method for providing a view of a virtual space to a user in a banner ad of a webpage. This enables an advertiser to provide content that is not merely static or scripted, but instead enabled provision of content through a web ad that represents activity within a virtual space (e.g., interactions of other users with the virtual space, content that changes based on current or recent events, etc.) in real time (or near real time). The provision of a virtual space in a web ad may be more effective than conventional web ad content.
US08627209B2 Social networking in a non-personalized environment
A social networking website allowing users to interact socially without revealing any personal information about themselves. The only information they reveal is about their virtual pets in the virtual website world. Different templates for the personalizable portion of the website can be selected, some of which are restricted.
US08627208B2 Application generator for data transformation applications
A utility is provided for generating applications for a variety of data conversion or handling application environments. A user can use a graphical user interface to purpose application adaptable modules to define a desired application. In one implementation, the user interface (1500) includes a node tree panel (1502) and a process assembly panel (1504). The node tree panel (1502) lists tool sets (1508) including transformations, maps and input-output tools. These tools can then be assembled together with identified data sources and then elements using the assembly panel (1504) to define an application. In this manner, an application is generated from a number of generic modules simply by linking the modules to perform a purpose of the desired application. In this manner, an application is generated from a number of generic modules simply by linking the modules to perform a purpose of the desired application.
US08627206B2 Image processing device and image processing method for displaying images in a spiral form
An image processing apparatus and method that include generating display video data of a plurality of images to be displayed respectively in a plurality of image display sections on a display screen from image data, determining display types indicating display modes of displaying the images of the image data on a picture by picture basis or GOP by GOP basis according to variations expressing extents of change of the image data, altering the display parameters or the reproduction parameters corresponding to the display video data according to the type information expressing the display types on a picture by picture basis or GOP by GOP basis as determined, and displaying the images to be displayed in the form of moving image on the display screen with time lags in the display sequence, using the display parameters or the reproduction parameters altered.
US08627204B2 Custom optimization of web pages
Web page optimization systems and methods are disclosed herein. In one implementation, a number of master pages and page layouts used to generate the web pages are defined. A number of channels are then defined to be associated with certain ones of the master pages and the page layouts. User device generating the request, a browser used to generate the request, and other suitable components of a user agent string in a web page request is then identified. A web page is rendered in response to the identified components of the user agent string using the master page and the page layout associated with a channel identified by such components of the web page request.
US08627202B2 Update and serialization of XML documents
A method, system, and computer program product for updating and serialization of a document, includes: assigning a unique ID to each node created in the document; materializing a root element start tag of the document; materializing a start tag for a child element of the root element; determining whether a change to the child element is required; in response to determining that the change to the child element is not required, skipping content of the child element; in response to determining that the change to the child element is required, updating the child element to form an updated element; pushing updated information for the child element into a mutation map; and serializing the document using the mutation map.
US08627197B2 System and method for annotating an electronic document independently of its content
A system, method, and apparatus for annotating an electronic document independently of its content is provided. According to one variation, a tablet and stylus-based computer is programmed with a document browser that permits a user to annotate documents viewed through the browser. The annotations are stored separately from the viewed document pages but are correlated with the pages such that when a previously annotated page is revisited, annotations relating to that page are retrieved and displayed on top of the page as an “ink” layer. Three different annotation modes are possible: ink, highlight, and erase. Each mode can be selected through a user interface supplied through the browser or through controls embedded in a document.
US08627196B1 Recognizing an electronically-executable instruction
An electronic input device such as an electronic pen may be used to input an electronic instruction. In some implementations, the device may include a tip for contacting a physical document. A sensor may record movement of the tip relative to the physical document. A recognition component may recognize an electronically-executable instruction from the recorded movement of the tip, and a processing component may automatically cause execution of the electronically-executable instruction recognized from the recorded movement of the tip. In some examples, the electronic input device may locally execute the electronically-executable instruction, while in other examples, the electronic input device may communicate the electronically-executable instruction to a separate device for remote execution.
US08627195B1 Remote browsing and searching
A remote browsing and searching process is directed to the management of a remote browse session at a network computing provider. Responsive to a search request, the network computing provider provides search results corresponding to historical content representations associated with content previously requested by the client computing device, search results corresponding to content representations associated with current content, or to data about changes in the content. The network computing provider may determine the search results based on a navigation path associated with a previous request for content, navigation paths of other client computing devices, relationships or differences between various versions of content, or based on any number of other factors. Interactive displays may be provided to client computing devices, allowing a user to refine the search results, zoom and manipulate content representations, and view relationships, similarities, and differences in content representations.
US08627194B2 Hyperlink destination visibility
Various embodiments utilize page scripting and parsing to identify the target destination of a hyperlink and provide a visual indication of the destination to the user without causing redirection to the target destination. In some embodiments, hyperlink color, highlighting, or icons are used to indicate the destination. Particular colors and/or icons selected to indicate the destination can, in some embodiments, be selected based on the domain hosting the target destination. In at least some embodiments, the destination of a link is determined by the page script run by a web browser on a user's device, while in other embodiments, information is transmitted to a web request handler on the server hosting the web site to determine the destination.
US08627193B2 Bookmarks and watchpoints for selection and presentation of media streams
Selection and presentation of media streams, in which presentation is not limited by order imposed by the digital content representative of those media streams, in response to bookmarks and watchpoints settable and usable by a user. Bookmarks reference a location within the media stream, not necessarily pre-selected and possibly dynamically selected, in which a presentation can be started or restarted therefrom. Watchpoints reference a location within the media stream, or a presentation state for the media stream, in which an action can be triggered thereby. Bookmarks and watchpoints provide a general technique for presenting selections from media streams in response to metadata.
US08627190B2 Memory device, circuit board, liquid receptacle, method of controlling a nonvolatile data memory section, and system including a memory device detachably connectable to a host circuit
A memory device electrically connectable to a host circuit receives, from the host circuit, data including a first actual data to be written into the first memory area; acquires first parity data associated with the first actual data; generates second actual data that is a copy of the first actual data, and second parity that is a copy of the first parity data; writes the first actual data and the first parity data into the first memory area, and writes the second actual data and the second parity data into the second memory area; and reads the first actual data, the first parity data, the second actual data, and the second parity data from the data memory section for transmission to the host circuit.
US08627189B2 High performance digital signal processing in software radios
An extensive use of look-up table (LUT) and single instruction multiple data (SIMD) in different algorithms in a software-defined radio (SDR) system is described. In particular, the LUT is used during spreading modulation, mapping and spreading, scrambling, de-scrambling, soft demapping, and the like. The SIMD is executed by a multi-core processor during implementation of a “min” operation to find an optimal path in a Trellis diagram for a Viterbi decoder.
US08627185B2 DTV transmitting system and receiving system and method of processing broadcast signal
A television transmitting system includes an encoder, a data randomizing and expanding unit, a group formatter, a deinterleaver, and a packet formatter. The encoder codes enhanced data for error correction, permutes the coded data, and further codes the permuted data for error detection. The randomizing and expanding unit randomizes the error-detection-coded data and expands the randomized data. The group formatter forms a group of enhanced data having one or more data regions and inserts the expanded enhanced data into at least one of the regions. The deinterleaver deinterleaves the group of enhanced data, and the packet formatter generates enhanced data packets.
US08627184B2 Systems and methods for protecting a multi-part broadcast control message
A method and/or apparatus are provided for protecting control information during broadcasts in a system where primary and second mobile broadcast control messages (PMBCM and SMBCM) are utilized. In order to protect the SMBCM, a first hash information instance is computed based on hashes for each a plurality of control data blocks for the SMBCM. The first hash information instance is appended to the PMBCM. Error-correcting code words are generated for the plurality of hashes for the plurality of control data blocks for the SMBCM. These error-correcting code words are appended to the control data blocks of the SMBCM. A receiver uses the first hash instance information in the PMBCM to determine if any control data blocks of the SMBCM are corrupt. If so, the error-correcting code words may be used to reconstruct the corrupted hash(es) for the control data block(s) in order to authenticate the remaining control data blocks.
US08627181B1 Storage apparatus, storage controller, and method for managing locations of error correcting code blocks in array
According to one embodiment, a storage controller of a storage apparatus includes an array management unit managing an array. The array includes a plurality of stripe groups. A set of an error correcting code block and a plurality of data blocks is arranged in each of the plurality of stripe groups. Each of the plurality of stripe groups includes a set of stripe blocks of which physical positions correspond to each other in the plurality of solid state drives. The array management unit regularly arranges the error correcting code blocks and the data blocks in the plurality of stripe groups such that the numbers of the arranged error correcting code blocks are non-uniform among the plurality of solid state drives.
US08627180B2 Memory controller ECC
Memory controllers having a data buffer coupled to receive and hold data from a memory device, and an Error Correction Code (ECC) generator/checker coupled to the data buffer. The ECC generator/checker is configured to generate ECC codes for the data and to compare the generated ECC codes with ECC codes received with the data. The memory controllers are configured to permit different ECC coverage area sizes and/or different ECC code types for different portions of the memory device.
US08627179B1 Split sector recovery method
Reproduction of encoded data which includes a split-mark. FIR data corresponding to split-mark and FIR data affected by the split-mark due to inter-symbol-interference are identified. FIR data corresponding to the split-mark is removed from the received FIR data. Recovered data is created by removing incorrect inter-symbol-interference from the FIR data due to the split-mark, and adding correct inter-symbol-interference from codeword bits. The recovered data is stitched together with data unaffected by split-mark data.
US08627178B2 Adjusting data dispersal in a dispersed storage network
A method begins with a processing module determining that storage of data requires updating, wherein the data is stored as a plurality of sets of encoded data slices in DSN memory. For a first type of updating, the processing module increases the total number while maintaining the decode threshold number. The processing module then, for each set of encoded data slices, creates another encoded data slice in accordance with the dispersed storage error encoding function and the increased total number and sends the new encoded data slices to the DSN memory. For a second type of updating, the processing module increases the total number and the decode threshold number. The processing module then recovers the data and encodes it in accordance with the dispersed storage error encoding function using the increased total number and the increased decode threshold number to produce an updated plurality of sets of encoded data slices.
US08627175B2 Opportunistic decoding in memory systems
Approaches for decoding data read from memory cells of a nonvolatile, solid state memory involve attempting to decode hard data using a hard decoding process prior to a time that soft data is available to the decoder. The hard data includes information about the digital symbols stored in the memory cells without data confidence information. The soft data includes information about the digital symbols stored in the memory cells and data confidence information. In response to the hard decoding process failing to achieve convergence, after the soft data becomes available to the decoder, the soft data is decoded using a soft decoding process. The decoder generates an output of the decoded data after the hard decoding process or the soft decoding process achieves convergence.
US08627171B2 Techniques for cyclic redundancy check encoding in communication system
A method and apparatus for generating a Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC) encoded message in a communication system are provided. The method includes generating the message, generating a first CRC for the message, generating a second CRC for the message, scrambling the first CRC by a first bit sequence of the message, and scrambling the second CRC by a second bit sequence of the message. The apparatus includes a message generator, a first CRC encoder, and a second CRC encoder. The message generator generates a message. The first CRC encoder generates a first CRC for the message, and scrambles the first CRC by a first bit sequence of the message. The second CRC encoder generates a second CRC for the message, and scrambles the second CRC by a second bit sequence of the message.
US08627170B2 Cyclic redundancy check circuit and semiconductor device having the cyclic redundancy check circuit
An object of the present invention is to provide a CRC circuit with more simple structure and low power consumption. The CRC circuit includes a first shift register to a p-th shift register, a first EXOR to a (p−1)th EXOR, and a switching circuit. A data signal, a select signal, and an output of a last stage of the p-th shift register are inputted to the switching circuit, and the switching circuit switches a first signal or a second signal in response to the select signal to be outputted.
US08627166B2 LDPC code family for millimeter-wave band communications in a wireless network
A method constructs a family of low-density-parity-check (LDPC) codes. The method includes identifying a code rate for an LDPC code in the family, identifying a protograph for the LDPC code, and constructing a base matrix for the LDPC code. The base matrix is constructed by replacing each zero in the protograph with a ‘−1’, selecting a corresponding value for an absolute shift for each one in the protograph based on constraining a number of relative shifts per column of the LDPC code to one and increasing a size of a smallest cycle in a graph of the LDPC code, and replacing each one in the protograph with the corresponding value.
US08627165B2 Bitwise operations and apparatus in a multi-level system
A system uses multi-level encoding where each symbol of a plurality of symbols represents more than one bit of information in a user data symbol stream for transfer using a multilevel transmission channel. The user data symbols are represented in a digital bitwise form such that each symbol is presented as a plurality of bits and each bit is subject to a different probability of error. An error correction procedure is applied based on the different error probability that is associated with each bit in the plurality. The channel can be configured to support a mosaic tile structure, each tile containing a channel symbol such that a selected tile has a collective error probability that is different from other tiles. Customized coding can be applied to the tile structure to allocate a selected amount of error correction power to the selected tile based on an overall available correction power.
US08627164B2 Request for retransmission when format of data is incorrect
A wireless communication apparatus that uses a communication protocol to transmit and receive data with a data check bit, including a received data determining section that performs a data check for received data by using the data check bit to determine whether the data is error; a received result transmitting section that, when determined to be error, discards the data and transmits a retransmission request to other wireless communication apparatus of the transmitting origin, whereas determined to be not error, transmits a message indicating that the data is normal to the other wireless communication apparatus of the transmitting origin; and a retransmission asking section that determines whether a format of the data is incorrect or normal, and when determined to be normal, passes the data to predetermined processing, whereas when determined to be incorrect, discards the data and asks the received result transmitting section to request retransmission of the data.
US08627163B2 Error-correction forced mode with M-sequence
Improved apparatus, systems and methods, such as those for testing an error correction code (ECC) encoder/decoder for solid-state memory devices, are provided. In one or more embodiments, the improved systems and methods deliberately inject errors into memory storage areas of memory devices to test the operation of the ECC encoder/decoder.
US08627160B2 System and device for reducing instantaneous voltage droop during a scan shift operation
A system and device for reducing instantaneous voltage droop (IVD) during a scan shift operation. In one embodiment, a system includes a first group of clock gating cells configured to receive an input clock signal and a first group of flip-flops coupled to the first group of clock gating cells. Each clock gating cell of the first group of clock gating cells includes a first delay element to delay the input clock signal by a first duration during a scan shift operation. The system also includes a second group of clock gating cells configured to receive the input clock signal, and a second group of flip-flops coupled to the second group of clock gating cells. Each clock gating cell of the second group of clock gating cells includes a second delay element to delay the input clock signal by a second duration during the scan shift operation.
US08627159B2 Feedback scan isolation and scan bypass architecture
A feedback scan isolation and bypass architecture apparatus and method. The apparatus includes core logic, and input and output multiplexers. The input multiplexer selectively provides a functional input or the core output to the core input based on a test signal. The output multiplexer selectively provides the core output or the input multiplexer output to a functional output based on the test signal. When the test signal indicates core feedback testing, the output multiplexer outputs the core output and the input multiplexer feeds back the core output to the core input. When the test signal indicates bypass testing, the input multiplexer outputs the functional input and the output multiplexer outputs the functional input bypassing the core logic. Logic can block the feedback or bypass signals when there are timing issues. Logic can modify the number of feedback or bypass signals when the number of functional inputs and outputs are different.
US08627154B2 Dynamic administration of component event reporting in a distributed processing system
Methods, systems and products are provided for dynamic administration of component event reporting in a distributed processing system including receiving, by an events analyzer from an events queue, a plurality of events from one or more components of the distributed processing system; determining, by the events analyzer in dependence upon the received events and one or more event analysis rules, to change the event reporting rules of one or more components; and instructing, by the events analyzer, the one or more components to change the event reporting rules.
US08627151B2 Estimating data availability on managed storage devices
This disclosure describes methods, systems and software that can be used to calculate the estimated mean time to data loss for a particular configuration of a disk group. For example, a system can be used to evaluate a plurality of configurations, and/or to select (and/or allow a user to select) an optimal configuration of the disk group, based, in some cases, on the relative estimated mean times to data loss of the various configurations. This can allow, if desired, the configuration of the disk group to minimize the likelihood of data loss in the disk group.
US08627149B2 Techniques for health monitoring and control of application servers
Techniques for improving application server performance and availability are provided. In one aspect, a method of monitoring the health of one or more application servers comprises the following steps. One or more health classes are specified, each of the one or more health classes defining one or more health policies for the one or more application servers. At least one of the one or more health policies is monitored. Violations, if any, of the one or more health policies are detected.
US08627148B2 Method and apparatus for memory dump processing and a memory dump system
The present application provides a method, an apparatus and a system for memory dump processing. The method comprises: invoking a first set of processing units to process a first stage of memory dump processing for each of memory blocks; invoking each set of processing units other than the first set of processing units to process a subsequent processing stage after completing the first stage respectively, to write the memory blocks into a storage device. The technical solutions provided in the present application enable processing each stage for each of the memory blocks in a pipeline manner, avoid instantaneous peak flow of disk I/O transmission and improve memory dump performance.
US08627147B2 Method and computer program product for system tuning based on performance measurements and historical problem data and system thereof
According to one embodiment, a test system includes a data collection module adapted for collecting data from a test system, a storage module adapted for storing the collected data in an organized format, the data including problem data, associated configuration information, associated performance information, and activity data, an analysis module adapted for analyzing the collected data to define at least two activity zones by correlating the problem data, the associated configuration information, the associated performance information, and the activity data, the at least two activity zones including a safe zone where the test system operates normally and a danger zone where the test system is susceptible to operational problems, and an adjustment module adapted for adjusting available resources and/or workload of the test system to cause the test system to operate in the danger zone thereby increasing a likelihood of fault occurrence for testing purposes.
US08627146B2 Model-based testing of an application program under test
A method includes receiving a first processing request for an application program under test. The method includes generating a second processing request for a model of the application program, wherein the second processing request is equivalent to said first processing request. The method includes communicating said first and second requests to said application program under test and said model of the application program respectively. The method includes receiving a first response data set from the application program under test and a second response data set from the model of the application program. The method includes comparing said first and second response data sets and generating a success indication if said comparing said first and second response data sets does not identify a difference. The method includes generating an error indication if said comparing said first and second response data sets identifies a difference between the first and second data sets.
US08627143B2 Dynamically modeling and selecting a checkpoint scheme based upon an application workload
Illustrated is a system and method for executing a checkpoint scheme as part of processing a workload using an application. The system and method also includes identifying a checkpoint event that requires an additional checkpoint scheme. The system and method includes retrieving checkpoint data associated with the checkpoint event. It also includes building a checkpoint model based upon the checkpoint data. The system and method further includes identifying the additional checkpoint scheme, based upon the checkpoint model, the additional checkpoint scheme to be executed as part of the processing of the workload using the application.
US08627137B1 Graceful handling of critical traffic blackholing faults
In one embodiment, a network device may detect a data plane critical fault condition, while a corresponding control plane is not experiencing a critical fault condition. In response to a network device based critical fault condition, the network device may activate and advertise an increased and expensive usable metric for each network interface of the network device. On the other hand, in response to an interface based critical fault condition, the network device may activate and advertise an increased and expensive usable metric for one or more particular network interfaces of the interface based critical fault, and signals, over the control plane to a corresponding network device at an opposing end of each particular network interface of the interface based critical fault, a request to activate and advertise an increased and expensive usable metric at the opposing end of each particular network interface.
US08627135B2 Management of a distributed computing system through replication of write ahead logs
Several methods and a system of a replicated service for write ahead logs are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method includes persisting a state of a distributed system through a write ahead log (WAL) interface. The method also includes maintaining a set of replicas of a WAL through a consensus protocol. In addition, the method includes providing a set of mechanisms for at least one of detection and a recovery from a hardware failure. The method further includes recovering a persistent state of a set of applications. In addition, the method includes maintaining the persistent state across a set of nodes through the hardware failover. In one embodiment, the system may include a WAL interface to persist a state of a distributed system. The system may also include a WAL replication servlet to maintain and/or recover a set of replicas of a WAL.
US08627133B2 Virtual machine boot speed-up by clock acceleration
A mechanism for virtual machine (VM) boot speed-up by clock acceleration is disclosed. A method of the invention includes detecting that a VM managed by a hypervisor of a host machine is starting a boot up process, modifying a rate of a clock of the VM to speed up the boot up process, determining that the boot up process of the VM is complete, and returning the rate of the VM clock to a normal operational rate that is slower than the rate of the VM clock during the boot up process.
US08627131B2 Hardware countermeasure against cryptographic attack
A hardware countermeasure for a cryptographic hardware module of a computing device is provided. The hardware countermeasure may include a noise-sample generator and a distributed buffer network co-located with the cryptographic module. The noise-sample generator may take as input data samples to be processed by the cryptographic hardware module and generate as output a non-Gaussian noise-sample for each of the input data samples. The distributed buffer network may take as input the non-Gaussian noise-samples and generate a non-Gaussian noise output corresponding to each of the non-Gaussian noise-samples.
US08627128B2 Power management for processing capacity upgrade on demand
A method, computer program product, and apparatus for managing power in a data processing system are presented. A core is activated in the data processing system and configured to operate at a frequency in response to receiving a request to increase a processing capacity of a set of resources in the data processing system. A determination whether a use of power resulting from activating the core configured to operate at the frequency meets a policy for the use of the power in the data processing system is made. A set of parameters associated with devices in the set of resources are adjusted to meet the policy for the use of power in the data processing system in response to a determination that the use of power does not meet the policy. A determination whether a number of operations performed per unit of time by a set of cores associated with the set of resources increased after activating the core is made. An indication that the request to increase the processing capacity of the set of resources is unavailable is made in response to a determination that the number of operations performed per unit of time by the set of cores associated with the set of resources has not increased.
US08627124B2 Techniques for performing storage power management
A technique for performing storage power management on storage subsystems includes measuring, using a power measurement device, power consumption of a storage subsystem. A first average power and a second average power for the storage subsystem are calculated based on the measured power consumption. In this case, the first average power is calculated over a shorter time period than the second average power. One or more first actuators are incremented in response to the first average power of the storage subsystem being greater than a first power level to reduce the first average power of the storage subsystem below the first power level within a first time period. One or more second actuators are incremented in response to the second average power of the storage subsystem being greater than a second power level and less than the first power level to reduce the second average power of the storage subsystem below the second power level within a second time period that is greater than the first time period. Finally, one or more of the first actuators and the second actuators are decremented in response to the second average power of the storage subsystem being more than an offset below the second power level to increase the power consumption of the storage subsystem.
US08627122B2 USB charging circuit for a computer
A Universal Serial Bus (USB) charging circuit for a computer includes a USB interface, a USB power terminal, a standby power terminal, a switch unit, a IC chip, and a control unit. The control unit disconnects the USB interface from the standby power terminal when receiving a high voltage level from the system power terminal or a first control signal from the IC chip. The control unit connects the standby power terminal supply to the USB interface when receiving a second control signal from the IC chip and the first switch signal from the switch unit; the control unit disconnects the standby power terminal supply from the USB interface when receiving a second control signal from the IC chip and the second switch signal from the switch unit.
US08627119B2 Script engine for control of power management controllers
A power management IC (PMIC) and methods thereof have been achieved wherein the PMIC invented supports multiple applications while having a high degree of flexibility and allowing a small built and a low power consumption. An embedded script engine on an internal communication bus of the PMIC replaces hard-wired sequencers and control interfaces or using processors as utilized in prior art. The script engine reads instructions from a non-volatile memory as e.g. a one-time programmable (OTP) memory. Furthermore a RAM can be provided to store executable instructions loaded from a host. Moreover a FIFO process is provided if instructions or TAGs are received while a previous script is being exercised. Any type of power supplies, output GPIO or other function could be controlled also by the Script Engine. The invention is also applicable to any other kind of power management circuits.
US08627111B2 Managing associations between keys and values
Provided are, among other things, systems, methods and techniques for managing associations between keys and values within a computer processing system. In one exemplary implementation, requests to store associations between keys and data values corresponding to the keys are input, and the associations are stored in entry nodes within a data structure represented as a hash-based directed acyclic graph (HDAG). Upon receipt of a data value request and accompanying request key, together with satisfaction of any additional access criterion, a return data value corresponding to the request key automatically is provided, the return data value having been generated based on at least one of the associations that involve the request key.
US08627109B2 Method of securing access to a hard disk drive of a computer system with an enhanced security mode
A method of enhancing security of a storage component communicating with a host processor over a bus comprises: receiving from the bus by the storage component one of a security unlock command, set password command, security disable command and security erase command along with a password associated therewith; determining a security state in which the storage component is operating at reception of the received command; determining if an enhanced security mode is enabled at reception of the received command; and performing security steps of the received command based the determined security state and the determined security mode.
US08627104B2 Secure data storage
Methods and systems for obscuring the location of critical system files are provided. In particular, the locations of files stored within a file system are selected by applying various inputs to a hash algorithm. For system files, the inputs applied to the hash algorithm can include a user name and password. For data files, the information provided to the hash algorithm can include the file name. In addition to providing random file locations, a file system in accordance with embodiments of the present invention can homogenize other information, including file names, sizes and creation dates.
US08627103B2 Identity-based encryption of data items for secure access thereto
The invention uses the concept of identity-based encryption in the context of data-centric protection of electronic health records, where each data item is encrypted by using its own identifier as a public key. The corresponding decryption keys are managed by special trusted entities, which distribute the keys to authorized parties and provide logging facilities. This approach has the particular advantage that emergency access mechanisms can be implemented in a secure and extremely efficient way. In contrast to previous approaches, it requires no large-scale distribution of secret decryption keys. Furthermore, the scheme allows limiting the impact of a compromised decryption key, as one key can only be used to decrypt one single document.
US08627099B2 System, method and computer program product for removing null values during scanning
A system, method, and computer program product are provided for scanning data values. Initially, a set of data values are received. Null values between the data values are then removed such that the data values are contiguous. Further, the data values with the null values removed are scanned for the purpose of identifying unwanted data.
US08627098B1 Electronic device and method for verifying firmware of the electronic device
In a method for verifying firmware of an electronic device, the electronic device includes a baseboard management controller (BMC) for storing a BMC firmware, and a basic input-output system (BIOS) for storing a BIOS firmware. The method writes a first verification code into the BMC firmware, and writes a second verification code into the BIOS firmware. The method writes the BMC firmware into the BMC, and writes the BIOS firmware into the BIOS. The method further triggers the electronic device to power off if the first verification code of the BMC firmware is not identical to the second verification code of the BIOS firmware, and boots an operating system of the electronic device if the first verification code of the BMC firmware is identical to the second verification code of the BIOS firmware.
US08627095B2 Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and program
An information processing apparatus according to the present invention includes a biometric authentication unit that authenticates one piece of biometric information based on registered biometric information, wherein the one piece of biometric information is image information unique to a living body, and a plurality of pieces of user information are associated with the one piece of biometric information, and the registered biometric information is biometric information registered in advance, and a login processing unit that selects, based on user specification information for specifying user information used for login processing, one of the plurality of pieces of user information associated with the biometric information successfully authenticated by the biometric authentication unit so that the login processing unit uses the selected one of the plurality of pieces of user information to perform the login processing.
US08627092B2 Asymmetric cryptography for wireless systems
A method for authenticating messages in a communication network includes forming a super message having a plurality of individual messages such that at least two of the individual messages are intended for separate receiving entities. The method further includes creating a message authentication code (MAC) using a private key, such that the MAC is configured to permit authentication of the super message using a public key.
US08627091B2 Generating a secure signature utilizing a plurality of key shares
A method begins by a module to generate a secure signature on an item by selecting a first key representation index of a set of key representation indexes, wherein a first mathematical encoding of a private key generates a first plurality of key shares as a first key representation. The method continues with the module determining whether a first plurality of signature contributions have been received in response to a signature request for the item based on the first key representation index, wherein one of a first set of dispersed storage (DS) units executes a first mathematical signature function using one of the first plurality of key shares on the item to produce a signature contribution of the first plurality of signature contributions and when the first plurality of signature contributions have been received, generating the secure signature on the item from the first plurality of signature contributions.
US08627081B2 Multimedia data protection
The invention provides a method of transmitting a media work such as a movie to a client comprising the steps of (a) encrypting the work using a sequence of different keys corresponding to respective temporally spaced segments of the document, (b) transmitting software code containing an algorithm from a security server to the client, the algorithm having a result that is a function of the state of the client, (c) executing the code at the client and returning the result to the security server, (d) determining whether the result is indicative of an unmodified client, and further comprising the steps of: (e) transmitting a segment from a server to the client, (f) securely streaming a key corresponding to the transmitted segment from a secure remote server to the client, (g) decrypting the segment using the obtained media key, (h) if step (d) indicates a modified client, preventing further keys from being transmitted, otherwise repeating steps (e) to (g) and repeating steps (b) to (d).
US08627080B2 Systems and methods for mutual authentication using one time codes
Methods and systems for mutual authentication and personalizing a transaction device, such as a payment, transaction, or identity card. Successively generated one time codes are calculated by a first and second entity. One of the codes is transmitted to the second entity, which verifies the code is proper, then encrypts a second one time code using a third one time code and transmits the encrypted data to the first entity. The first entity decrypts the data using the third one time code, verifies the encrypted second one time code is proper, thereby mutually authenticating, and establishing a shared encryption key for subsequent communications, including transmission of personalization data.
US08627079B2 Method and system for controlling a device
A system and method for controlling a device. Data that was encrypted using a first encryption scheme is decrypted, then re-encrypted using a second encryption scheme. The re-encrypted data is then decrypted.
US08627071B1 Insuring integrity of remote procedure calls used in a client and server storage system
A system and method generates a message integrity check. The message integrity check value is computed by hashing one or more block checksums from procedure specific parameters of an RPC and then encrypting the resulting hash value. The one or more block checksums may be quickly computed using conventional data checksumming procedures for the data contained within the RPC. As such, the computations to hash the block checksums is minimal. The computed message integrity check is appended to the RPC to thereby provide a level of security approaching or equal to the level of Integrity defined by the RPCSEC_GSS protocol specification.
US08627070B2 Method and apparatus for variable privacy preservation in data mining
Improved privacy preservation techniques are disclosed for use in accordance with data mining. By way of example, a technique for preserving privacy of data records for use in a data mining application comprises the following steps/operations. Different privacy levels are assigned to the data records. Condensed groups are constructed from the data records based on the privacy levels, wherein summary statistics are maintained for each condensed group. Pseudo-data is generated from the summary statistics, wherein the pseudo-data is available for use in the data mining application. Principles of the invention are capable of handling both static and dynamic data sets.
US08627069B2 System and method for securing a computer comprising a microkernel
A method of securing a computer comprising a microkernel and a system for interfacing with at least one virtualized operating system are presented. The microkernel includes a clock drive, a scheduler and an inter-process communication manager. The system for interfacing forms at least one virtual machine associated with each operating system and allows execution of the latter without modification. The method includes, at the level of the system for interfacing, the steps of:—intercepting any communication between a means external to the operating system and the operating system,—verifying that predefined rules of access to said external means are validated by said communication;—transmitting the communication to the recipient if the rules are validated.
US08627064B2 Flexible system and method to manage digital certificates in a wireless network
An infrastructure is provided for managing the distribution of digital certificates for network security in wireless backhaul networks. In embodiments, a root certificate management system (root CMS) processes requests for digital certificates, issues root certificates, automatically authenticates surrogate certificate management systems (sur-CMSs), and automatically processes certificate requests and issues certificate bundles to sur-CMSs that are successfully authenticated. The infrastructure includes sur-CMSs to which are assigned base stations within respective regions. Each sur-CMS automatically authenticates its own base stations and automatically processes certificate requests and issues certificate bundles to base stations that are successfully authenticated. A certificate bundle issued to a base station includes a digital certificate, signed by the issuing sur-CMS, of a public key of such base station, and at least one further digital certificate, including a self-signed certificate of the root CMS.
US08627063B2 Systems and methods for flash crowd control and batching OCSP requests via online certificate status protocol
The present invention is directed towards systems and methods for batching OCSP requests and caching corresponding responses. An intermediary between a plurality of clients and one or more servers receives a first client certificate during a first SSL handshake with a first client and a second client certificate during a second SSL handshake with a second client. The intermediary may identify that the statuses of the client certificates are not in a cache of the intermediary. An OCSP responder of the intermediary may transmit a single request to an OCSP server to determine the statuses. The intermediary may determine, from a single response received from the OCSP server, whether to establish SSL connections with the clients based on the statuses. The intermediary may store the statuses to the cache for determining whether to establish a SSL connection in response to receiving a client certificate from the first client.
US08627061B1 Method and system for employing a fixed IP address based encryption device in a dynamic IP address based network
A network operations center (130) provides secure communication between fixed IP address based encryption devices (114,154) in an enclave (110) and on a handheld communication device (150) deployed on a dynamic IP address based wireless carrier network (140). In communication from the enclave (110) to the handheld device (150) a fixed IP address based data packet (310) is obtained from the enclave (110) and encapsulated into a network data packet (320) which is provided over the wireless carrier network (140) to the handheld device (150) for decapsulating the fixed IP address based data packet (410) from the network data packet (320). In communication from the handheld device (150) to the enclave (110) a fixed IP address based data packet (710) is decapsulated from a network data packet (620) into which it has been encapsulated by the handheld device (150) and provided to the enclave (110).
US08627059B2 Method for recording and distributing digital data and related device
The invention relates to a method for burning digital data onto a blank disk by a client device, the digital data being transmitted to the client device by a remote content server. The following steps are carried out by the client device for burning digital data onto a blank disk: establishing a secure authenticated channel with the content server; receiving the digital data transmitted by the content server; verifying the existence of the secure authenticated channel and authorizing the burning of the digital data received only during the existence of the secure authenticated channel; and burning onto the blank disk the digital data received.
US08627057B2 Reconfigurable sensing platform for software-defined instrumentation
A reconfigurable sensor front-end includes a logic block having a storage circuit to store hardware description information and a reconfigurable block including a plurality of circuits. The plurality of circuits are to be set in a first configuration based on the hardware description information and are to be set in a second configuration when the hardware description information changes. The first hardware description information corresponds to a first sensor and the changed hardware description information corresponding to a second sensor.
US08627055B2 Wimax terminal for calculating a first hash value to a load command and firmware and comparing the first hash value to a second hash value from the executed load command and firmware
The present invention discloses a starting method of a WiMAX terminal and a terminal thereof, wherein, the starting method comprises: step S202, calculating a load command and a firmware required to be loaded for starting the terminal in advance to obtain a first firmware Hash and a first load command Hash, and storing the first firmware Hash and the first load command Hash in a predefined memory of the terminal; step S204, in response to a starting operation of the terminal, performing starting process and starting a boot loader; step S206, the boot loader executing the load command transmitted by a driver of the terminal to download the firmware to the terminal; step S208, the boot loader calculating a second firmware Hash of the downloaded firmware and a second load command Hash of the load command transmitted by the driver; step 210, the boot loader judging whether the first firmware Hash matches with the second firmware Hash, and judging whether the first load command Hash matches with the second load command Hash, and permitting to start the terminal under the circumstances that the first firmware Hash matches with the second firmware Hash and the first load command Hash matches with the second load command Hash.
US08627054B2 Method and apparatus to create single firmware image for multiple server platforms
According to one aspect, a computer-implemented method for managing a computer system is disclosed. In one embodiment, the computer system includes a processor that is programmed to cause the computer system to perform specific functions. The functions include: initializing a management controller operating on a management platform; detecting preloaded identification data containing a predetermined manufacturer-specific platform identifier; if no preloaded identification data is detected, determining the platform identifier based on GPIO settings, firmware data, EEPROM data, and/or sensor detection; detecting preloaded hardware data containing operating parameters for hardware components operating on the management platform and operatively coupled to the management controller; if no preloaded hardware data is detected, determining the operating parameters according to the platform identifier; causing the management controller to initialize the hardware components according to the platform identifier and operating parameters; and, flashing initialization data containing the platform identifier and operating parameters to a system memory.
US08627050B2 Executing perform floating point operation instructions
A method and system are disclosed for executing a machine instruction in a central processing unit. The method comprise the steps of obtaining a perform floating-point operation instruction; obtaining a test bit; and determining a value of the test bit. If the test bit has a first value, (a) a specified floating-point operation function is performed, and (b) a condition code is set to a value determined by said specified function. If the test bit has a second value, (c) a check is made to determine if said specified function is valid and installed on the machine, (d) if said specified function is valid and installed on the machine, the condition code is set to one code value, and (e) if said specified function is either not valid or not installed on the machine, the condition code is set to a second code value.
US08627047B2 Store data forwarding with no memory model restrictions
A pipelined microprocessor includes circuitry for store forwarding by performing: for each store request, and while a write to one of a cache and a memory is pending; obtaining the most recent value for at least one complete block of data; merging store data from the store request with the complete block of data thus updating the block of data and forming a new most recent value and an updated complete block of data; and buffering the updated complete block of data into a store data queue; for each load request, where the load request may require at least one updated completed block of data: determining if store forwarding is appropriate for the load request on a block-by-block basis; if store forwarding is appropriate, selecting an appropriate block of data from the store data queue on a block-by-block basis; and forwarding the selected block of data to the load request.
US08627041B2 Efficient line and page organization for compression status bit caching
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for performing a memory access request to compressed data within a virtually mapped memory system comprising an arbitrary number of partitions. A virtual address is mapped to a linear physical address, specified by a page table entry (PTE). The PTE is configured to store compression attributes, which are used to locate compression status for a corresponding physical memory page within a compression status bit cache. The compression status bit cache operates in conjunction with a compression status bit backing store. If compression status is available from the compression status bit cache, then the memory access request proceeds using the compression status. If the compression status bit cache misses, then the miss triggers a fill operation from the backing store. After the fill completes, memory access proceeds using the newly filled compression status information.
US08627036B2 Memory management techniques
Memory management techniques that permit an executing process to store content in memory and later retrieve that content from the memory, but that also permit a memory manager to discard that content to address memory pressure. A process executing on a computing device may notify a memory manager of the computing device that first memory space allocated to the process contains first content that is available for discard. If the memory manager detects the computing device is experiencing memory pressure, the memory manager may address the memory pressure by selecting memory space available for discard and discarding the content of the memory space. Before a process reuses content made available for discard, the process may notify the memory manager of the intent to reuse and, in response, receive empty memory and an indication that the content was discarded or receive an indication that the content is still available for use.
US08627033B2 Storage device migration and redirection
A network storage system may receive the contents of a storage device attached to a client device to the network storage system. The network storage system may then redirect access to the contents of the client device to the network storage system. The storage device may then be removed or repurposed. Storage device management may be performed by the client device or the network storage system. A policy may be used to define under what circumstances the contents of a storage device may be moved to a network storage system, or data movement may be initiated by a user. Any access permissions or other metadata associated with files on the original storage device can be preserved.
US08627032B2 Memory protection unit with support for distributed permission checks
A memory management and protection system that manages memory access requests from a number of requestors. Memory accesses are allowed or disallowed based on the permissions assigned to the request based on the memory segment being accessed. The decision to allow or disallow access is made by the extended memory controller by merging the permissions assigned to the memory segment being accessed, and the permissions assigned to the access request by the originating memory controller or other endpoint.
US08627029B2 Methods for managing files according to application
The present invention discloses systems for managing files according to an application. A method for accessing files in a digital storage device, the method including steps of: providing an application having an application identity; and adjusting a storage mode of a file according to the application identity upon the application accessing the file. Preferably, the step of providing includes providing a process identifier (PID) that is an indicator of the application identity. Preferably, the step of adjusting includes adjusting the storage mode according to a storage command associated with an application scenario of the application. Preferably, the step of adjusting is performed using a storage attributes table (SAT). Preferably the step of adjusting is performed using an application scenario table (AST).
US08627026B2 Storage apparatus and additional data writing method
Deduplicated backup data of a plurality of generations are aggregated and stored.A storage apparatus is connected via a network to a host system making a content write request and includes a storage unit providing one or more containers composed of a specified storage area, and a back up unit storing the content in the container in accordance with a backup request from the host system; and wherein the backup unit cuts out the content into one or more chunks, detects a duplicate chunk, which is a duplicate of a chunk stored in the container, from the cutout chunks, and additionally writes the chunk, other than the duplicate chunk, to the container where the duplicate chunk is stored.
US08627023B2 Information processing apparatus and information processing method that selects data to be deleted without a user having to perform a delete operation
An information processing apparatus and an information processing method are capable of correctly selecting data to be deleted, without a user having to perform a troublesome operation. In a backup operation, a determination is made for each image file as to whether a predetermined condition is satisfied. If the condition is satisfied, image files are backed up, and storage priority levels defined for these image files are reduced in accordance with a rule predefined by a user. The storage priority level is a measure indicating the priority of keeping an image file in a storage unit. The higher the storage priority, the lower the probability that image files are deleted. The storage priority levels are changed depending on whether image files have been backed up and depending on the number of times image files were backed up.
US08627022B2 Contention free parallel access system and a method for contention free parallel access to a group of memory banks
A parallel access system including: a group of processing entities that comprises N processing entities; wherein N is a positive integer that exceeds one; a group of memory banks that stores K information elements; wherein the group of memory banks comprises N pairs of single access memory banks; each pair of memory banks comprises an even memory bank and an odd memory bank; wherein each pair of memory banks stores sub-set of K/N information elements; wherein an even memory bank of each pair of memory banks stores even address information elements of a certain sub-set of K/N information elements and an odd memory bank of each pair of memory banks stores odd address information elements of the certain sub-set of K/N information elements; wherein K/N is an even positive integer; and a non-blocking interconnect, coupled to the group of processing entities and to the group of memory banks; wherein during each fetch cycle each processing entity of the group of processing entities fetches a first information element from an odd memory unit of a pair of memory banks and fetches a second information element from an even memory unit of the pair of memory banks; wherein the first and second information elements are two consecutive interleaved address information elements.
US08627018B2 Automatic optimization for programming of many-core architectures
The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for automatically optimizing memory accesses by kernel functions executing on parallel accelerator processors. A function is accessed. The function is configured to operate over a multi-dimensional matrix of memory cells through invocation as a plurality of threads on a parallel accelerator processor. A layout of the memory cells of the multi-dimensional matrix and a mapping of memory cells to global memory at the parallel accelerator processor are identified. The function is analyzed to identify how each of the threads access the global memory to operate on corresponding memory cells when invoked from the kernel function. Based on the analysis, the function altered to utilize a more efficient memory access scheme when performing accesses to the global memory. The more efficient memory access scheme increases coalesced memory access by the threads when invoked over the multi-dimensional matrix.
US08627017B2 Read and write monitoring attributes in transactional memory (TM) systems
A method and apparatus for monitoring memory accesses in hardware to support transactional execution is herein described. Attributes are monitor accesses to data items without regard for detection at physical storage structure granularity, but rather ensuring monitoring at least at data items granularity. As an example, attributes are added to state bits of a cache to enable new cache coherency states. Upon a monitored memory access to a data item, which may be selectively determined, coherency states associated with the data item are updated to a monitored state. As a result, invalidating requests to the data item are detected through combination of the request type and the monitored coherency state of the data item.
US08627015B2 Data processing system using cache-aware multipath distribution of storage commands among caching storage controllers
A data processing system includes a storage system and caching storage controllers coupled to the storage system and to a storage network. The storage controllers operate in an active-active fashion to provide access to volumes of the storage system from any of the storage controllers in response to storage commands from the storage network. The storage controllers employ a distributed cache protocol in which (a) each volume is divided into successive chunks of contiguous blocks, and (b) either chunk ownership may be dynamically transferred among the storage controllers in response to the storage commands, or storage commands sent to a non-owning controller may be forwarded to the owning controller. A multipathing initiator such as a server computer directs the storage commands to the storage controllers by (1) for each volume, maintaining a persistent association of the chunks of the volume with respective storage controllers, and (2) for each storage request directed to a target chunk, identifying the storage controller associated with the target chunk and sending a corresponding storage command to the identified storage controller. Chunk ownership tends to stabilize at individual storage controllers, reducing unnecessary transfer of cache data and metadata among the storage controllers.
US08627011B2 Managing metadata for data in a copy relationship
Provided is a method for managing metadata for data in a copy relationship copied from a source storage to a target storage. Information is maintained on a copy relationship of source data in the source storage and target data in the target storage. The source data is copied from the source storage to the cache to copy to target data in the target storage indicated in the copy relationship. Target metadata is generated for the target data comprising the source data copied to the cache. An access request to requested target data comprising the target data in the cache is processed and access is provided to the requested target data in the cache. The target metadata for the requested target data in the target storage is discarded in response to determining that the requested target data in the cache has not been destaged to the target storage.
US08627009B2 Cache filtering method and apparatus
A method and apparatus used within memory and data processing that reduces the number of references allowed in processor cache by using active rows to reject references that are less frequently used from the cache. Comparators within a memory controller are used to generate a signal indicative of a row hit or miss, which signal is then applied to one or more demultiplexers to enable or disable transfer of a memory reference to processor cache locations. The cache may be level one (L1) or level two (L2) caches including data and or instructions or some combination of L1, L2, data, and instructions.
US08627005B1 System and method for virtualization of networked storage resources
A method, system, and program product for managing a plurality of storage area networks including a plurality of data storage volumes and one or more hosts, wherein the volumes are in a storage network, wherein the network includes one or more processors in the network, the program product comprising a computer-readable storage medium encoded with computer-executable program code enabling controlling virtualization of volumes in the storage network and managing a SCSI virtualization service; wherein the volume virtualization controller service supports virtualization enabling virtual Storage Area Networks (SAN)s by parsing between front-end SANs and back-end SANs regardless of physical configuration of the front and back-end SANs, to enable mapping from virtual volumes to back-end storage elements across virtual SANs.
US08627002B2 Method to increase performance of non-contiguously written sectors
A method of managing data in a cache memory storage subsystem upon a cache write operation includes determining a first number of non-contiguously written sectors on a track in the cache and comparing the first number with a second, threshold number. If the first number exceeds the second number, a full background stage operation is issued to fill the non-contiguously written sectors with unmodified data from a storage medium. A corresponding system includes a cache manager module operating on the storage subsystem. Upon a determination that a cache write operation on a track has taken place, the cache manager module determines a first number of non-contiguously written sectors on the track, compares the first number with a second, predetermined threshold number, and issues a background stage operation to fill the non-contiguously written sectors with unmodified data from a storage medium if the first number exceeds the second number.
US08626996B2 Solid state memory (SSM), computer system including an SSM, and method of operating an SSM
In one aspect, data is stored in a solid state memory which includes first and second memory layers. A first assessment is executed to determine whether received data is hot data or cold data. Received data which is assessed as hot data during the first assessment is stored in the first memory layer, and received data which is first assessed as cold data during the first assessment is stored in the second memory layer. Further, a second assessment is executed to determine whether the data stored in the first memory layer is hot data or cold data. Data which is then assessed as cold data during the second assessment is migrated from the first memory layer to the second memory layer.
US08626992B2 Storage device with identification information
According to one embodiment, a storage device includes identification information storage module, location information storage module, determination module, and control module. The identification information storage module stores identification information identifying nonvolatile memories. The location information storage module stores location information identifying bad area in the nonvolatile memories. The determination module determines whether each of pieces of identification information stored in each of the nonvolatile memories matches with any one of the pieces of identification information stored in the identification information storage module. The control module controls one of the nonvolatile memories to prevent one of the pieces of location information from being used, and to prevent access from the host, when the determination module determines that the one of the pieces of identification information of the one of the nonvolatile memories does not match with any one of the pieces of identification information stored in the identification information storage module.
US08626991B1 Multi-LUN SSD optimization system and method
A method, computer program product, and computing system for dividing a physical memory device into at least a first logical memory device and a second logical memory device. The physical memory device includes a plurality of physical memory elements. A first portion of the plurality of physical memory elements is assigned to the first logical memory device. A second portion of the plurality of physical memory elements is assigned to the second logical memory device.
US08626984B2 Method and system for device independence in storage device wear algorithms
A device, methods and systems that provide device independence in storage device wear algorithms are disclosed. A storage device that provides such device independence includes a device-specific wear algorithm, and may also include an integrated wear algorithm. The device-specific wear algorithm is configured to be loaded into a wear algorithm space and is at least a portion of a wear algorithm. The device-specific wear algorithm is stored in the storage device. The integrated wear algorithm, if employed, is resident in the storage device. A method that provides such device independence is also disclosed. The method includes loading a device-specific wear algorithm from a storage device into a wear algorithm space. The device-specific wear algorithm is configured to be stored in the storage device and loaded into the wear algorithm space. The device-specific wear algorithm is at least a portion of a wear algorithm.
US08626978B2 Computer apparatus, computer system and adapter carry-over method
To obtain a computer that can change over from the active system to the standby system without reconnecting the I/O adapters. The computer according to the present invention carries over the identifiers logically identifying connection paths between computer modules and I/O adapters from active computers to standby computers.
US08626976B2 Method and apparatus for performing a host enumeration process
A method and apparatus for host enumeration process. One embodiment of the method provides a bit to indicate to the host whether enumeration process should start or continue. The bit may be set when the shared resource process has been successfully completed, or the bit may be set if too much time has elapsed since the shared resource process has started, or the bit may be set if too much time has elapsed before the shared resource process is started, or the bit may be set if the shared resource process has not been performed successfully, or the bit may be set if the port is open and it is unnecessary to perform the shared resource process.
US08626973B2 Pseudo multi-master I2C operation in a blade server chassis
A system and method are directed towards a pseudo multi-master operation on a serial bus. The pseudo multi-master operation allows multiple devices without standard multi-master functionality to operate on the serial bus as masters. In a disclosed example, the serial bus is an Inter-Integrated Circuit (I2C) bus, which is isolated when an adapter card requires access to the I2C bus, such as to update vital product data (VPD) to a memory device, and to cache the updated VPD to a chassis management module.
US08626967B1 Virtualization of a storage processor for port failover
Described are techniques for processing requests. A request is received at a data storage system. The request is a command to perform first processing and the request is sent from a client over a virtualized path. The virtualized path includes a virtual target port of the data storage system. The virtual target port is a first physical target port that provides a virtualized counterpart port for a second physical target port whereby requests directed to the second physical target port are routed to the first physical target port rather than the second physical target port. First processing is performed and a response to the request is generated. The response includes first information consistent with sending the request over a non-virtualized path to the second physical target port. The response is sent to the client.
US08626966B2 Embedded clock recovery
Systems and methods and computer program products are disclosed to determine the source data rate even in cases where the sink device is not directly coupled to the source device. A method includes, forming a logical channel from a source device to a sink device where the logical channel is configured to carry the source data stream and one or more rate parameters. The rate parameters relate a data rate of the source data stream to a data rate of the logical channel. Another method includes, detecting a logical channel in a received data stream where the logical channel includes the source data stream, recovering one or more rate parameters from the received data stream, determining a data rate of the logical channel, and determining the data rate of the source data stream based on the data rate of the logical channel and the one or more rate parameters.
US08626963B2 Packet based data transfer system and method for host-slave interface
In a host-slave data transfer system, the slave device receives packet based data from an external device and stores the packet content in a buffer as data segments. The slave merges a plurality of data segments into data streams and transmits the data streams to the host. The host uses direct memory access (DMA) to unpack the data stream from the slave into individual data segments without memory copy. To enable the host to set up DMA, the slave transmits information regarding sizes of the data segments to the host beforehand via an outband channel, e.g. by transmitting the size information in headers and/or tailers inserted into previous data streams. The host utilizes the data segment size information to program descriptor tables, such that each descriptor in the descriptor tables causes one data segment in the data stream to be stored in the system memory of the host.
US08626962B2 Tilt and trim sensor apparatus
The present invention relates a tilt and trim sensor apparatus having a housing and a shaft rotatably mounted to the housing. The apparatus includes a magnet connected to one of the housing and the shaft. The apparatus includes a transducer connected to another of the housing and shaft. The transducer is disposed adjacent to the magnet for sensing the position of the magnet and is operable to generate an output representative of an angular position of the magnet. The apparatus has a microprocessor for sensing gauge display input requirements. The apparatus has output circuitry for outputting a signal based on the output of the transducer that is in accordance with the gauge display input requirements.
US08626959B2 Discovery and configuration of new devices added via dynamic reconfiguration
An approach is provided in which a device is detected when it has been added to an operating system partition. The detecting occurs during a dynamic reconfiguration process, and the device is associated with a device type. A parent device is identified that corresponds to the added device. The identifying of the parent device is performed during the dynamic reconfiguration process and the identification of the parent device is based on the device type of the added device with the identified parent device corresponding to a parent device name. A unit address corresponding to the added device is retrieved and this retrieved unit address and the identified parent device name are passed to a configuration manager process. The added device is then configured based on the identified parent device name.
US08626957B2 Collective network for computer structures
A system and method for enabling high-speed, low-latency global collective communications among interconnected processing nodes. The global collective network optimally enables collective reduction operations to be performed during parallel algorithm operations executing in a computer structure having a plurality of the interconnected processing nodes. Router devices are included that interconnect the nodes of the network via links to facilitate performance of low-latency global processing operations at nodes of the virtual network. The global collective network may be configured to provide global barrier and interrupt functionality in asynchronous or synchronized manner. When implemented in a massively-parallel supercomputing structure, the global collective network is physically and logically partitionable according to needs of a processing algorithm.
US08626948B2 Systems and methods for network routing
Systems and methods are provided for routing data through a network. In one system, a first node is enabled to overhear packet transmissions from a second node. The cost of transmitting packets from the first node to the second node is updated based on each overheard packet transmission. In another system, when the cost of transmitting packets from a source to an overhearing node to a destination is less than the cost of transmitting packets from the source to the destination, an advertisement is sent to the source causing the packet transmissions to be routed from the source to the destination through the overhearing node. In yet another system, using a safe-sequence tag that is attached to any packet transmitted by any node and updated when it is received by another node, along with stored histories of best metric advertisements, predetermined rules are applied to maintain loop freedom.
US08626944B2 System and method for efficient replication of files
A method comprises distributing a plurality of descriptors of file encoded with comprising a plurality of recipient nodes, wherein at least one descriptor is distributed from the first node to each recipient node of the at least a portion of the first group. The at least a portion of the first group communicate their respective descriptors received from the first node to other nodes of the first group. A system comprises an origin node operable to distribute all of a plurality of descriptors of a MDC file to a first group of recipient nodes, wherein the origin node does not attempt to communicate all of the plurality of descriptors to all of the recipient nodes of the first group. The recipient nodes of the first group are each operable to communicate a descriptor that it receives from the origin node to other nodes of the first group.
US08626941B2 Delivering a video stream
Delivering a video stream is disclosed. A request for the video stream is received. A past portion of the video stream is delivered to a client. The past portion has a marker time that precedes a current time by an interval that corresponds to a buffer length in a client buffer. Receiving a video stream is also disclosed. A request for the video stream is transmitted. A past portion of the video stream is received. The received past portion has a marker time that precedes a current time by an interval that corresponds to a buffer length in a client buffer.
US08626939B2 Method and apparatus for streaming data
Method and apparatus for negotiation of streaming data, suitable for application in an environment wherein a server generates and serves large, continuous amounts of speech data to a client in real time. A method of controlling the play out of a generated data stream from a data stream player includes estimating a time for generating the data stream; estimating a time for playing the data stream; generating a data stream using a data stream generation resource, for output by the data stream player; and alerting the stream player if the remaining generation time is less than the play time. The server may calculate what it can do, given knowledge of the network, and send a message to guarantee a level of service. A “can start play” message may be sent to client when the client can reliably start playing the signal.
US08626937B2 Server device in thin-client system
A server device for use in a thin-client system includes a determination unit configured to determine whether or not an application program executed on the server device based on an input event from the client terminal has requested sensor information in a present environment of a device, an obtaining unit configured to, when the determination unit has determined the application program has requested sensor information, obtain sensor information in a present environment of the client terminal instead of obtaining sensor information in an present environment of the server device, and a transmission unit configured to cause the application program to run based on the sensor information on the client terminal obtained at the obtaining unit and transmits screen data created by the execution to the client terminal.
US08626936B2 Protocol independent server replacement and replication in a storage area network
A method for adding a server to a storage area network, the method comprising identifying a set comprising one or more communication protocols for connecting a second server to a first storage device configured to communicate with a first server using a first protocol, wherein the set of protocols comprises protocols that are supported by both the second server and the first storage device; selecting a second protocol from the set of protocols; and configuring the first storage device, the second server, and associated connection devices, wherein the second server may communicate with the first storage device using the second protocol.
US08626933B2 Optimizing buddy finder telecommunication service
A service is provided to users of communication devices present in a geographic service area. Each device is associated with a specific user. The service comprises conditionally alerting a user, via his/her communication device, to a presence of another device of another user. The alerting occurs if the other user is registered as a buddy of the user and if a geographical distance between the user's device and the buddy's device is smaller than a pre-determined threshold. A succession of polling cycles is run. In each polling cycle, the mobile devices are sequentially polled based on location and according to a ranking determined in a preceding polling cycle that minimizes a value of a sum of terms. Each respective term indicates a respective difference between rankings of the mobile device of the respective user and of the mobile device of the buddy of the respective user.
US08626928B2 Disassociating and freeing managed connections based on usage patterns
A method, system and computer program product for disassociating and freeing managed connection objects. Managed connections are dissociated from their connection handles based on their usage patterns, determined by various connection parameters, which more effectively reduces the idle time of the managed connections. The managed connections whose cost of disassociating and reassociating is less than the cost of keeping the managed connections idle are targeted and released to the free pool of managed connections via the dissociation from its connection handles.
US08626923B2 Media search engine for a personal media network
A system providing search functionality supporting the exchange and consumption of media is disclosed. The searching of media on storage belonging to any of a pre-defined group of users of a personal media network is provided. In addition, media stored on designated servers may also be included in a search. The media stored may include audio, still images, video, and data. A user may search the stored media using a number of criteria including the time period of the media, the type of device, and the type of media. The system also provides support for the search of one or more media peripherals, which may be searched when the media peripherals are communicatively coupled to the system.
US08626921B2 Device and service management based on layer 2 through layer 7 device attributes
A smart network may include a smart network host device as well as one or more client devices configured to connect to the smart network. Each of the client devices may implement one or more services that the client device exposes to other devices connected to the smart network. Each of the client devices includes network layer 2 and 3 attributes as well as network layer 7 application attributes. The application attributes are enumerated as named services, which each client device registers with the smart network host device. When a client device needs access to a named service, the smart network host device uses layer 2, 3, and 7 attributes associated with the client device to select a suitable server for providing the named service to the client device.
US08626919B1 Installer-free applications using native code modules and persistent local storage
Some embodiments provide a system that executes an application. During operation, the system obtains a resource list associated with the application and stores a set of resources including a native code module from the resource list through communications over a network connection, wherein the resources are stored in persistent local storage. The application then loads the application in the web browser and loads the native code module into a secure runtime environment. Next, the application executes the application independently of the network connection using the native code module and the stored resources.
US08626918B2 Workload allocation based upon heat re-circulation causes
A method of allocating workload among servers in a geographically collocated cluster of compute equipment includes calibrating causes of heat re-circulation in the cluster of compute equipment. In addition, workload is allocated among the servers to address causes of the heat re-circulation to reduce costs associated with cooling the compute equipment.
US08626917B2 File access using counter locking mechanism
In an embodiment, a method is provided for accessing a file node. In this method, a file access request specifying a file node to be accessed by way of a file system is received at a server from a client device. A counter is referenced to identify that the file node is being accessed in response to a different file access request. The counter is configured to track whether the file node is being accessed. The file node is provided to the client device when the counter indicates a termination of access to the file node resulting from the different file access request.
US08626916B2 Handheld field maintenance tool with process communication tunnel
A method of interacting with a process control system is provided. The method includes bringing a mobile electronic device into physical proximity of a field device. The mobile electronic device is coupled to a digital process communication channel of the field device. A client software application is initiated on the mobile electronic device. The digital process communication channel is used to communicatively couple the client software application to a host application remote from both the mobile electronic device and the field device.
US08626915B2 Routing method
A method executed by a router that establishes a connection between a network and an another network that includes an information processing device and an information storage device, the method includes: detecting an access status of the information processing device to the information storage device; and prohibiting transfer of the information from the information processing device to the another network depending on the access status managed in the detecting.
US08626909B2 Page phase time
A method of measuring load time for a web page includes video recording a duration of the web page load including capturing N frames in a series of frames 1 through N of the web page. The method includes comparing each frame from frame 1 through frame N−1 with a next frame from frame 2 through frame N in the series of frames to determine a pixel change amount between the compared frames. The method includes defining a series of page phases for the duration of the web page load, each page phase defined by a start time and an end time with each phase start time determined based on estimating user perceptible pixel change amount levels.
US08626907B2 Information processing unit, program execution method, and program for controlling electric appliance
An information processing unit, a program execution method, and a program are capable of identifying the type of an electric appliance and then automatically performing the setting operation, the setting information viewing, and the like of the electric appliance in order to enhance the user convenience. The information processing unit detects the electric appliance connected with a network and then determines the model related information of the detected electric appliance. The information processing unit selects a program corresponding to the model related information based on the determined model related information and then executes the selected program in a device communicatively connected with the electric appliance.
US08626906B1 Scheduling data pushes to a mobile device based on usage and applications thereof
Embodiments relate to pushing data to mobile devices more efficiently. In a first embodiment, a computer-implemented method receives pushed data on a mobile device. The method includes: (a) recording, at a memory of the mobile device, information describing activity occurring on the mobile device during a first time period; (b) sending, from the mobile device to a server, data indicating the first time period and activity data indicating whether the mobile device was active during the first time period; and (c) during a second time period occurring after the recording (a) and sending (b), receiving application data pushed to the mobile device at a first rate determined based at least in part on the activity data sent to the server in (b), wherein the second time period is determined by the server based at least in part on the data indicating the first time period.
US08626903B2 Method and device for identifying an SCTP packet
A method for identifying a Stream Control Transmission Protocol (SCTP) packet is provided, which includes: acquiring a feature tuple of a received SCTP packet, in which the feature tuple includes at least one piece of the following information: a source Internet Protocol (IP) address, a destination IP address, and a verification tag (V_tag); matching the acquired feature tuple of the SCTP packet with a SCTP tuple identification table, in which the SCTP tuple identification table includes a mapping relation between a feature set tuple and an SCTP association, and the feature set tuple includes at least one piece of the following information: a source IP address set, a destination IP address set, and the V_tag; and acquiring an SCTP association to which the SCTP packet belongs, if the acquired feature tuple of the SCTP packet matches one or more records of the SCTP tuple identification table. Correspondingly, a device for identifying an SCTP packet, a system for identifying an SCTP packet, and a method for establishing an SCTP tuple identification table are further provided, capable of reducing missed identification of an SCTP stream.
US08626897B2 Server farm management
Techniques and systems are disclosed that can measure capacity of a server farm, and project capacity needs based on traffic and resources. Server farm system information is collected for managing the server farm by identifying a list of servers in the server farm. Performance metrics are collected from identified servers and stored in a collection database. The stored performance metrics are analyzed in accordance with a server farm management request.
US08626891B2 Configured management-as-a-service connect process based on tenant requirements
An approach is provided that configures a management-as-a-service (MaaS) connect process at a MaaS provider. The MaaS connect process is configured based on a request received from a MaaS tenant. The configured MaaS connect process is transmitted to the MaaS tenant. MaaS services are provided from the MaaS provider to the MaaS tenant. These MaaS services interact with the configured MaaS connect process installed at the MaaS tenant.
US08626890B2 Connection pool use of runtime load balancing service performance advisories
Runtime connection load balancing of work across connections to a clustered computing system involves the routing of requests for a service, based on the current operational performance of each of the instances that offer the service. A connection is selected from an identified connection pool, to connect to an instance that provides the service for routing a work request. The operational performance of the instances may be represented by performance information that characterizes the response time and/or the throughput of the service that is provided by a particular instance on a respective node of the system, and is relative to other instances that offer the same service.
US08626889B2 Detecting anomalies in a sensor-networked environment
In a method for detecting anomalies in a sensor-networked environment, packages of data are received from a plurality of sensors located in the environment. At least one candidate problem location in the environment is identified based upon data contained in the packages. A principal components analysis is performed on the data collected from sensors associated with the identified at least one candidate problem location to identify a number of hidden variables and the number of hidden variables are analyzed to detect anomalies in the environment. In addition, detected anomalies are outputted. An analyzer for performing the method is provided.
US08626888B2 Dynamic control of autonomic management of a data center
A method, system, and article for autonomizing autonomic management of a data center, with the data center having at least one computer system and an associated component. Data is collected from the data center and used as input to identify a data center policy. A set of capabilities of elements of the data center are detected and cataloged based upon the collected data. At least one policy is dynamically selected from at least one set of master policies in a policy directory with the selected policy to support the cataloged capabilities of the data center, and to dynamically control selective application and to adapt parameters for quality of service. The selected policy is applied to manage the data center.
US08626887B2 Porting of information technology structures
A method and system for porting an abstract Information Technology (IT) structure into an IT delivery environment. An abstract IT structure A that is currently within an IT delivery environment X is translated by generating a virtual IT structure V from the abstract IT structure A through specification of an IT delivery environment Y. Delivery binding the virtual IT structure V to the IT delivery environment Y generates a delivery-bound virtual IT structure D. The delivery-bound virtual IT structure D is deployed in the IT delivery environment Y, resulting in a real IT structure instance R capable of operating in the IT delivery environment Y.
US08626885B2 Process for monitoring the consumptions of franking machines
According to the process for monitoring the consumptions of a plurality of franking machines through a public communication network, at least one franking machine not being connected to this network, a link is firstly established with a management server, through the public network, by means of at least one supervision terminal independent of the off-line franking machine, in accordance with a determined protocol of communication, and data is then exchanged between the terminal and the server during which the user inputs at the supervision terminal a current invoicing index relative to the off-line franking machine and receives in return a code of authorization to frank in order to validate the subsequent frankings of the off-line franking machine.
US08626880B2 Embedded configuration variance detector
An information handling system includes a connection via a network interface to a network, an embedded service processor, and a storage device. The connection via a network interface is adapted to receive data representing configuration settings of a baseline information handling system. The embedded service processor is adapted to compare the data representing the configuration settings of the information handling system to the data representing the configuration settings of the baseline information handling system. The storage device is adapted to store the data representing the differences between the configuration settings of the information handling system and the configuration settings of the baseline information handling system.
US08626877B2 Method and system for implementing a global information bus in a global ecosystem of interrelated services
A Global Information Bus (GIB) architecture is an infrastructure for deploying and managing individual services on a global scale. The GIB is a series of services that may change from one execution to another, finding and collaborating with other services dynamically. This series of collaborating services may start to resemble an ecosystem, and GIB architecture may maintain the interconnectedness and stability of this ecosystem as it continually changes. To that end, the GIB includes an enterprise repository service for storing related information related to services running in the enterprise where the enterprise consists of a group of network domains.
US08626873B2 Systems and methods for managing a provider's online status in a distributed network
A system manages communications between a provider and a requestor in a distributed network. A requestor is implemented on a computing device and provides a stay online binding. The stay online binding identifies a binding that is desired by the requestor. A provider is implemented on a computing device and provides a binding. The provider receives the stay online binding from the requestor and continues providing the binding because the provider became aware of the stay online binding.
US08626870B2 Method and apparatus for generating and reproducing adaptive stream based on file format, and recording medium thereof
A method and an apparatus for generating and reproducing an adaptive stream based on a file format is disclosed. The method includes receiving one or more segments, each of which includes a manifest box, a moov box, and a media data box, from a server and analyzing the manifest box, the moov box, and the media data box; and decoding and reproducing the one or more segments based on a result of analyzing of the manifest box, moov box, and media data box, wherein the manifest box, moov box, and media data box are included in a single file.
US08626863B2 Persistent synthetic environment message notification
Persistent synthetic environment message notification is described, including retrieving synthetic environmental data associated with an event occurring within a synthetic environment, identifying one or more formats to configure the synthetic environmental data and to transmit the synthetic environmental data, generating a message comprising the synthetic environmental data, the message being generated based on at least one of the one or more formats, and sending the message comprising the synthetic environmental data to an endpoint.
US08626862B2 Identifying people and available communication modes
A system that includes a computer device and a user interface. The user interface is configured to enable a user to interact with a person using one of at least two of voice conversation, voice-video conversation, graphic text-based conversation, fax, and electronic mail. The interactions can include the following. Creating a rule to cause the computer device to automatically perform an action based on a request to converse with the user. Viewing an automatically generated listing of a set of persons, the listing comprising a name, presence information, and communication modes available for the user to communicate with the person from the set of persons. Selecting the person from the set of persons. Selecting a communication mode from the communication modes available to communicate with the person, and retrieving information about a person using an identifying characteristic of the person, where the identifying characteristic is selected by the user from a display. Communicating with the person.
US08626857B2 System and method for provisioning an email account using mail exchange records
A system provisions an electronic mail (email) account of a user for allowing access to an electronic mailbox from a remote device to retrieve email. A communications module receives email address parameters of the user and transmits a domain name system (DNS) query to the Internet for returning mail exchange (MX) records corresponding to the email address parameters of the user. A configuration module processes any returned MX records as a starting point for determining configuration parameters for accessing the email account of the user to retrieve user email.
US08626848B2 Obfuscating identity of a source entity affiliated with a communiqué in accordance with conditional directive provided by a receiving entity
A computationally implemented method includes, but is not limited to: receiving a first communiqué that is affiliated with a source entity and that is directed to a receiving entity; and transmitting to the receiving entity, in lieu of the first communiqué, a second communiqué that is provided in accordance with one or more conditional directives to conditionally obfuscate identity of the source entity, the one or more conditional directives provided by the receiving entity. In addition to the foregoing, other method aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure.
US08626846B2 Method for remote configuration of an apparatus via a network
An embodiment of the method includes remote configuration of at least one apparatus using a configuration server to configure the apparatus in situ via a network, to which the apparatus and the configuration server are connected. The method includes exchanging information requests and inform messages between the configuration server and the apparatus. The method further includes prioritizing, at the configuration server, the requested information indicated by the at least one of information requests and inform messages. The method also includes sending, from the configuration server, the requested information indicated by the at least one of information requests and inform messages over the network to the apparatus.
US08626844B2 Methods and media for exchanging data between nodes of disconnected networks
Methods and media for exchanging data between nodes of disconnected networks are provided, including: determining a query type based on whether a query received at a first node includes at least one keyword or at least a portion of a uniform resource identifier; performing a search of a cache based on the query and the query type; converting the query into a formatted query document; storing the formatted query document in a database, if the search of the cache does not yield at least a predetermined number of data items; retrieving the formatted query document from the database at a predetermined interval; multicasting the retrieved formatted query document from the first node to at least a second node; and receiving, at the first node, a formatted response document from the second node, the formatted response document resulting from a search of a cache of the second node.
US08626843B2 Mass-communication templates for communication-scenarios
A selection of a communication scenario of multiple communication scenarios is received. Availability of content placeholders associated with the selected communication scenario is presented. A selection of a content placeholder from the content placeholders associated with the selected communication scenario is received. Based on the received selection of the content placeholder associated with the communication scenario, a mass-communication template including the content placeholder is generated. The mass-communication template is accessed to generate a first electronic communication. The first electronic communication is sent with first content based on a first state of a communication variable specified by the content placeholder of the mass-communication template. The mass-communication template is accessed to generate a second electronic communication. The second electronic communication is sent with second content based on a second state of the communication variable specified by the content placeholder of the mass-communication template.
US08626841B2 Direct access electronic mail (email) distribution and synchronization system with IMAP-idle implementation
The communications system includes a network engine that communicates with the plurality of a user subscribed mobile wireless communications devices via a communications network for sending and receiving emails. A direct access server is operative with the network engine for polling electronic mailboxes of users from an email source and retrieving electronic messages from the electronic mailboxes and pushing any electronic mailboxes to the network engine to selected users subscribed mobile wireless communications devices. The direct access server communicates with an email source using the internet message access protocol (IMAP) and IMAP-Idle supportable connections to accept real-time notifications such that when a connection limit is reached or exceeded to an email source, the direct access server disables IMAP-Idle connections to the email source.
US08626837B2 Identity management for open overlay for social networks and online services
Methods and systems to manage users of a social network. The method includes receiving, at a server, a request to contact a user from another user of a social network based on a selected one of a plurality of associated identity resources of the user known by other users. The method also includes restricting views of other users for the identity of the user to the selected one of the plurality of associated identity resources.
US08626833B2 Vehicle-mounted communication system
A communication network in which a plurality of terminals are connected to a common bus is a vehicle-mounted communication system which connects a plurality of ECUs though the bus, transmits messages at predetermined communication intervals between the ECUs, and receives the transmitted messages. The messages transmitted/received between the ECUs through a CAN communication line are divided into a plurality of groups such as a first group, a second group to an Nth group according to the type of message information. Each of the ECUs is provided with a transmission timing operation part for computing the transmission timing for each message group to be transmitted. The transmission timing operation part adjusts so as to bring the transmission timing of message belonging to the first group transmitted from its own ECU closer to the transmission timing of message belonging to the first group received from another electronic control unit.
US08626832B2 System and method for displaying a conversation summary
A system, method and computer program product for displaying a conversation summary is provided. The method may include providing a graphical user interface (GUI) configured to allow communication between a number of users. The method may also include displaying an invitation to join a conversation at the graphical user interface from at least one of the users and displaying a summary of the conversation in a tag cloud on a computing device. Numerous other variations and embodiments are also included within the scope of the present disclosure.
US08626830B2 Media content at the end of a communication
A method includes playing a video clip upon the end of a communication between two users. Another method includes playing an audio clip upon the end of a communication between two users. The audio clip may have been downloaded to a device of at least one of the users or it may be selected by a first user for playing on the device of a second user.
US08626829B2 System and method for delivering remotely stored applications and information
The computerized method and apparatus for mobile device interactivity includes hosting a network application on a server. The method and apparatus further includes receiving, at the network application on the server, an event message from a mobile application executing on a mobile device, the mobile application having executable code embedded therein for communicating with the network information for presenting a user interface for the network application on the mobile device, the event message reporting an action taken via the user interface. The method and apparatus further including executing application logic within the network application to generate data values based on the action reported in the event message and mobile device information and sending to the mobile device an update message with at least some of the generated data values and instructions for use by the executable code to present the data values within the user interface at the mobile device.
US08626826B2 Terminal apparatus, electronic apparatus, and access key assignment method and program
A terminal apparatus includes a communication unit and a controller. The communication unit receives information of a web page from a web server. The controller extracts commands included in the information of the web page by analyzing the received information of the web page, and assigns access key functions to the extracted commands.
US08626823B2 Page ranking system employing user sharing data
Standard web content search result relevance and ranking is improved by considering certain social reference data, such as the number of times an item of content is shared, normalized for the number of times it is viewed. A system and method for improving the relevance and ranking includes a system and method for tracking the social references and a system and method for operating on search engine results to either re-order the results based on social reference data, re-order the search results based on a combination of the social reference data and the web search engine's ordering, and/or display the social reference data either with the search results reordered or in the order provided by the web search engine. Many different forms of data constitute social reference, including sharing content or a link thereto by email, SMS, posting to a link-sharing site, blog, and bookmarking in a web browser.
US08626822B2 Method for implementing network resource access functions into software applications
An Open Network Adapter (ONA) provides an interface that provides network resource access functions to application writers and network users while hiding the implementation details from those writers and users. The ONA accepts high-level network resource access function requests and coordinates the lower-level actions necessary to accomplish the high-level requests. These network resource access requests may, for example, be provided via a user interface which may be implemented by a personal computer, telephone, or other device capable of providing a display and receiving user input.
US08626820B1 Peer to peer code generator and decoder for digital systems
Digital content from a source (e.g., a file or a stream), is striped and encoded in parallel over a cluster of Storage Systems. The encoding ensures that subsequent retrieval of the data succeeds even when some members of the cluster of Storage Systems are lost or when errors in communication result in the loss of some IP packets. Host Map File (HMF) data is produced that describes fully how to retrieve the content, including the encoding parameters, the cluster of Storage Systems and the striping of the encoded data. This HMF data is then inserted as the header of every encoded file on the cluster of Storage Systems. The HMF data is the only way the encoded files can be reassembled into a meaningful whole. The original content is retrieved by requesting its data from the cluster of Storage Systems. In each Storage System, a decoder parses the HMF data and transmits the striped data to the requestor. The decoders cooperate to dynamically detect erasures and to reconstruct the missing data. The system is self-healing as new Storage Systems are able to reconstruct data missing due to the loss of any Storage Systems from the cluster without impeding concurrent encode and decode transactions.
US08626819B2 Transfer of items between social networking websites
A first website earns rewards, e.g. points and items, for carrying out activities. Those rewards can be transferred to a second website. For example, a parent's website allows the parent to carry more adult tasks and also earn points. The points can be transferred to the child's website. A center of the universe website allows obtaining rewards for any of these websites. A social networking component operates across multiple websites.
US08626815B1 Configuring a programmable integrated circuit device to perform matrix multiplication
In a matrix multiplication in which each element of the resultant matrix is the dot product of a row of a first matrix and a column of a second matrix, each row and column can be broken into manageable blocks, with each block loaded in turn to compute a smaller dot product, and then the results can be added together to obtain the desired row-column dot product. The earliest results for each dot product are saved for a number of clock cycles equal to the number of portions into which each row or column is divided. The results are then added to provide an element of the resultant matrix. To avoid repeated loading and unloading of the same data, all multiplications involving a particular row-block can be performed upon loading that row-block, with the results cached until other multiplications for the resultant elements that use the cached results are complete.
US08626813B1 Dual-path fused floating-point two-term dot product unit
A fused floating-point dot product unit. The fused dot product unit includes an improved alignment scheme that generates smaller significand pairs compared to the traditional alignment due to the reduced shift amount and sticky logic. Furthermore, the fused dot product unit implements early normalization and a fast rounding scheme. By normalizing the significands prior to the significand addition, the length of the adder can be reduced and the round logic can be performed in parallel. Additionally, the fused dot product unit implements a four-input leading zero anticipation unit thereby reducing the overhead of the reduction tree by encoding the four inputs at once. The fused floating-point dot product unit may also employ a dual-path (a far path and a close path) algorithm to improve performance. Pipelining may also be applied to the dual-path fused dot product unit to increase the throughput.
US08626812B2 Hybrid greatest common divisor calculator for polynomials
A hybrid greatest common divisor (GCD) calculator analyzes characteristics of polynomials and selects a particular GCD algorithm from multiple available GCD algorithms based on a combination of characteristics of the polynomials. The selected GCD algorithm is then applied to calculate the GCD of the polynomials.
US08626810B2 Method and system for finite impulse response (FIR) digital filtering
A method for finite impulse response (FIR) digital filtering is provided that includes generating a frequency domain sample block from an input sample block of length L, adding the computed frequency domain sample block to a reverse time-ordered set of previously generated frequency domain sample blocks as a newest frequency domain sample block, computing a spectral multiplication of each of K newest frequency domain sample blocks in the reverse time-ordered set with a corresponding frequency domain filter block in a time-ordered set of K frequency domain filter blocks of a FIR filter, adding the K results of the K spectral multiplications to generate an output spectral block, inverse transforming the output spectral block to generate a time domain output block, and outputting L filtered output samples from the time domain output block.
US08626806B2 Method and system for managing execution of virtual applications
A system and method for directing download and execution of an application. A runtime engine receives an identifier of a block of shared memory from a directing process. The shared memory stores a map indicating which portions of an application file have been stored in a local copy of the application file. The runtime engine also receives an instruction from the directing process to execute the local copy when the local copy stores less than the entire application file. As the application executes, the runtime engine identifies requests from the application to access portions of the local copy and uses the map to determine whether the requested portions have been stored in the local copy. If the requested portions are not stored in the local copy, the runtime engine prevents the executing application from accessing the local copy until the map indicates the requested portions have been stored therein.
US08626803B2 Method and apparatus for automatically providing network services
An embodiment of the invention is directed to a method and apparatus for automatically providing network services in a way that improves upon the prior art. Systems implementing aspects of the invention can, for instance, provide developers with a mechanism for creating Web Services without having to write low-level SOAP, XML, or WSDL code. The system utilizes a rule-based approach to provide a mechanism for dynamically reconfiguring the system with requiring redeployment of the entire system.
US08626800B2 Synchronization of artifacts across different domains
A method of synchronizing artifacts of a first domain with artifacts of a second domain is provided. The method includes: loading a first set of transformed artifacts and a first artifact map from a first domain into a second domain; generating an association model based on an evaluation of the first artifact map and a second artifact map; comparing a first transformed artifact of the first set of transformed artifacts with a second artifact of a second set of artifacts corresponding to the second artifact map based on the association model; determining differences based on the comparing; and selectively updating the second artifact map based on the differences.
US08626795B2 Dynamic data association
Methods, program products, and systems implementing dynamic data association are described. Relations between a first data item and a second data item can be created in an ad hoc manner. The first data item can include a row of data in a table in a relational database. The second data item can include a row of data in the same table, in another table in the relational database, or a document outside the relational database. Configurable metadata can be created to link the first data item and the second data item. The link can be directional. The configurable metadata can include data specified by a user. The configurable metadata can be stored in one or more system tables in the relational database. The configurable metadata can be specific to the user, or to a work group of the user. The configurable metadata can change when the first data item or the second data item is modified.
US08626792B2 Hierarchical structured abstract data organization system
A method in a data processing system and apparatus for organizing files, web pages, or web site members organized in a traditional first hierarchical file structure that is on a recordable medium of a data processing system. A user-defined metalabel is assigned to each of the electronic files, web pages, or web site members. The electronic files, web pages, or web site members are organized as a function of the metalabels into a second hierarchical file structure existing simultaneously with the first hierarchical file structure on the recordable medium of the data processing system. The files, web pages, or web site members can be organized or grouped by the metalabels for efficient searching or following conversations of group members on social networking sites.
US08626791B1 Predictive model caching
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on one or more computer storage devices, for caching predictive models are described. Records are obtained, each record including a time of a previously submitted predictive request and an identifier of a trained predictive model. A trained scheduling model is generated using the records as training data. A set of identifiers of trained predictive models are determined from a plurality of trained predictive models that are stored in a secondary memory of a computing system. The target time is inputted to the trained scheduling model. In response, a second predictive output is received that comprises the set of identifiers. A set of trained predictive models are obtained that correspond to the set of identifiers from the secondary memory. The set of trained predictive models are stored in a primary memory of the computing system.
US08626790B2 System and method for processing and analyzing dimension data
A processor is operated to combine a first row of a dimension table in a data warehouse with a second row in the dimension table. The result is a combined row that includes a row identification key for the first row and a row identification key for the second row. The row identification key for the first row joins the combined row to fact data from a prior time period. The second row corresponds to a current time period that is later than the prior time period. The processor is also operated to join at least a portion of the combined row to at least a portion of the corresponding row in a fact table associated with the dimension table. The fact data from the prior time period is included in the corresponding row in the fact table.
US08626789B2 Geocoding using information retrieval
Geocoding architecture based on information retrieval. The geocoding information retrieval system operates on locations and geographic entities. The architecture uses parameters in addition to the query string, if available. The parameters provide contextual information that enables filtering and sorting the results. The additional parameters include market, culture, map view, and user location. A geocoding triage process uses the query and context information provided and output of a machine-learning parser to select the data-lookup geocoders for processing the query. A results processing component collects the results from the underlying data-lookup geocoders, merges the results into a single list after normalizing the scores, and then re-sorts the results list.
US08626785B2 Contextual query revision
Apparatus, systems and methods for contextual query revision are disclosed. A current search query is received during a search session. The current search query includes one or more current search tokens. Potentially inaccurate search tokens are identified from the one or more current search tokens. A possible replacement token is identified based upon the potentially inaccurate search token. A group of related tokens is identified from query logs, and a modified search query is generated if the replacement token is not included in the related tokens.
US08626783B2 Method for monitoring and controlling the processing of database searches
Systems, methods, and apparatus for preventing misuse of searches of a database system are provided. This prevention of misuse of database searches can enable reliable operation of the database system, as an improper query using a regular expression will not shut down or severely affect an application process that provides access to the database system. A thread of the application process determines whether an input character characters string matches the regular expression. To prevent misuse, a computational effort of the search is tracked, and compared to a threshold value. When the threshold is exceeded, an operation of the thread is exited or stopped.
US08626781B2 Priority hash index
A priority hash index provides efficient lookup of posting lists for search query terms. The priority hash index is a data structure in which hash values for terms are distributed across multiple storage devices based on importance of the terms and access speeds of the storage devices. Terms are grouped into search lists with each search list including a storage location on each storage device. When a search query is received, a term is identified and hashed to a location on the first storage device and to generate a unique hash value for the term. The locations on the storage device for the term's search list are sequentially read until the hash value for the term is located to access the posting list for the term.
US08626771B2 Container reputation
A method of creating a reputation for a container that contains data is disclosed. A user reviews a container that is stored on a network and the user posts an opinion rating of the container. The opinion rating is stored along with an user identification. The opinion rating and the user identification are added to a database and the data in the database is used to calculate a reputation for the container.
US08626768B2 Automated discovery aggregation and organization of subject area discussions
An aggregation service aggregates discussions of events and topics within a given subject area using seed search queries, seed URLs, and/or search engine data. A subject area is selected and a set of seed search queries and/or seed URLs relevant to that subject area are manually generated. The set of seed search queries and/or seed URLs are used to identify URLs containing content relevant to the subject area. The URLs are crawled at given intervals to identify content items, which are analyzed using a classifier to identify content items relevant to the subject area. The content items are grouped into clusters surrounding events and/or topics within the subject area. The various clusters are ranked against one another to facilitate ordering clusters for presentation to end-users.
US08626762B2 Display apparatus and method of providing a user interface
A method of providing a user interface (UI) and a display apparatus having the same. In a method for providing a UI, a display apparatus receives an manipulation for two or more axis directions, and searches for one of a plurality of images by applying two or more different classification standards according to the directions of the received input manipulation. Therefore, the user may easily search for a desired image using one or more classification standards.
US08626756B1 Tagging data assets
Systems and apparatus, including computer program products, for tagging data assets. In one aspect, a computer program product includes instructions operable to cause a computer to establish a database of concept data elements, asset references, and associations. The concept data elements each represent a concept and have a hierarchy specified by concept hierarchy information. The asset references each include a storage location identifier for a corresponding one of a plurality of data assets. Each association defines a type of relationship, from a plurality of types of relationships, between a data asset and a concept represented by a concept data element.
US08626755B2 Electronic album editing system, electronic album editing method, and electronic album editing program
An electronic album editing system for editing an electronic album in consideration of categories into which images are classifies is provided. The electronic album editing system includes: a first storage section for classifying a plurality of images included in a first electronic album into a plurality of categories; a second storage section for classifying a plurality of images included in a second electronic album into a plurality of categories; a category selection section for selecting one category of the images stored in the second storage section; a range acquiring section for acquiring the range of the image information corresponding to the one category; a category detection section for detecting a category corresponding to the range similar to the acquired range using range information previously stored in the first storage section; and an editing section for storing the image classified into the detected category in the second storage section.
US08626752B2 Broadcast network platform system
A system that associates audio and/or video data with one or more calls for action, and manages, queries and displays the audio and video associated with a call for action based on defined or predefined criteria related to the audio and video data. The system selectively updates media files and Metadata from Meta tags, or Metadata feeds. The system spiders the Metadata or Metadata feeds for new Metadata to automate the submission and programming the audio and video data over a network. The system provides users with other call to action options including click to call, literature, order forms, and/or applications. The system optionally schedules audio and video media to target users by time of day, location, device, and other parameters to offer a call to action to different user audiences.
US08626748B2 Combined word tree text visualization system
An example method includes identifying instances of a search term in a source text, and identifying prefix strings and suffix strings comprising tokens preceding and subsequent to the search term in the source text. The method further includes displaying a visualization interface that includes the search term within a combined tree diagram that includes a prefix tree and a suffix tree extending to either side of the search term. The prefix tree displays the prefix strings and the suffix tree displays the suffix strings, and both have user-selectable branches. The method further includes providing, in response to a user input selecting a branch in the prefix tree or in the suffix tree, a visual indication of a prefix string and a suffix string in the visualization interface that form a matching sequence that originate together in the source text, for matching sequences that are connected through the selected branch.
US08626746B2 Tracking modifications to values of various fields in a database serve
Storing historical/previous values of a field of a relational database in the same table. The previous values can be conveniently used to revert back to any of such previously stored values. Thus, for each update/modify operation, the present value is stored as a previous value. In one embodiment, the previous values are stored in a VARRAY associated with each field. The indexed entries of the VARRAY store the present as well as previous values of the field.
US08626745B2 Multi-query optimization
A database query optimization method is provided for database queries that include predicates, the queries being directed to at least one database table having data in rows and columns. The method includes associating a lineage bit set with each row of the database table, the lineage bit set providing a binary predicate state indication whether each predicate is met or are not met by data in the row. A dependency bit set is established to provide a binary indication of the predicates that are included in each query. Queries are applied against the database table by a logical operation between the lineage bit set and the dependency bit set. A database query optimization data structure includes a lineage bit set associated with each row in the database table. The lineage bit set provides a binary predicate state indication whether each predicate is met or are not met by data in the row. The data structure further includes a dependency bit set that provides a binary indication of the predicates included in each query.
US08626743B2 Techniques for personalized and adaptive search services
Techniques are presented that include defining one or more personalized categories, wherein each personalized category comprises one or more terms, identifying one or more of said personalized categories that are associated with a user query, identifying one or more terms that are associated with said user query and with said personalized category, and adding said identified one or more terms to said user query.