| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08671458B2 |
Transcoding content based on verification of ownership of the content
A computer-implemented method includes generating data indicative of one or more times in which to sample content of a first resource and content of a second resource; receiving, from a client device, content of the first resource sampled at the one or more times; comparing the sampled content from the first resource to content sampled from the second resource at the one or more times; determining, based on comparing, that the first resource includes a same resource as the second resource; verifying, based on determining, ownership of the second resource; generating, based on a verifying, a user key specifying ownership of the second resource; and transmitting the user key to the client device. |
| US08671456B2 |
Accessing restricted resources in computer programming
A computerized method for providing a computer code an access to a restricted resource of a computer program, comprising modifying an at least one duplicate of an at least one declaration file of the computer program by removing a restriction definition of an at least one resource of the computer program that is referred to by the computer code, thereby generating an at least one modified declaration file, and building a computer application comprising the computer code and also the computer program as being dependent on the at least one modified declaration file, thereby providing access to the at least one resource originally defined as restricted, and an apparatus for performing the same. |
| US08671454B2 |
System for secure web-prompt processing on point of sale devices
A point of sale system including at least one proxy server having an internet connection, a web browser operative to download web pages from the internet via the proxy server, and a real time user input limiting trusted computing base module communicating with the web browser and being operative to limit user input to the web pages in real time. |
| US08671453B2 |
Social age verification engine
A social networking system obtains parental authorization from a parent for a child to access a computing resource, where the parent and the child are users of the social networking system. The child user may request the authorization by identifying a purported parent user. The social networking system attempts to verify the validity of the purported parent user's account, the age of the user associated with the purported parent's account, and/or the existence of a parent-child relationship between users of the accounts associated with the purported parent and the child. The social networking system makes these determinations, at least in part, using social and transactional information associated with the purported parent user's account and the child user's account in the social networking system. Upon verification of these items, the social networking system may allow the purported parent to provide authorization responsive to the child's request to access the computing resource. |
| US08671452B2 |
Apparatus and method for moving rights object from one device to another device via server
An apparatus and method for transferring a Rights Object (RO) for a content between devices via a server, wherein a sending device converts a first RO taken by itself to encode into a second RO, and sends an RO move request message including the second RO to the server, whereas the server converts the second RO included in the RO move request message into a third RO and transfers the third RO to a receiving device, whereby the receiving device receives the third RO from the server for installation, wherein the sending device deletes or modifies the first RO at an appropriate time point. |
| US08671436B2 |
Dynamic service group discovery
A dynamic service group discovery and mapping approach avoids manual assignment of stream channels for transporting video services to the client devices that provide the video services to an end user. Client devices, such as set-top boxes, receive video services such as video on demand (VOD), switched digital video (SDV), pay-per view (PPV) and other narrowcast types of video for selective transmission. Each client device scans for visible stream channels, and sends a report indicative of visible stream channels to a dynamic mapping server. The dynamic mapping server applies aggregation rules for determining, based on the reported stream channels, which client devices are in the same service group. By receiving reports from each client device, the dynamic mapping server identifies groupings of service groups by combining sets of client devices receiving common channels, and “builds” the service groups as additional reports indicate common stream channels visible to multiple set top boxes. |
| US08671433B2 |
Methods, apparatus and systems for delivering and receiving data
According to one implementation a method is provided that involves transmitting from a social network site to a television broadcasting site a stream of data for being broadcast to multiple end-user media devices and also transmitting via a unicast communication from the social network site non-broadcast content for the purposes of being incorporated, integrated or otherwise played in conjunction with the broadcast content in the end-user media devices. |
| US08671430B2 |
Linking to video information
A system enables dynamic linking between a variety of video formats including television broadcasts, web pages, and video displays which are stored on magnetic or optical media. Each frame of the video information is identified together with a plurality of locations within that frame. The locations selected by the user for example using a pointing device is then used to access associated information either within the system itself or on an external system. Thus, in some embodiments of the present invention, any item on a given frame may be linked initially or thereafter to other information within or without the particular system containing that information. |
| US08671429B1 |
Method and system for dynamically changing a user interface for added or removed resources
A system and method for changing a user interface for added or removed content includes an external device, a display and a host device coupled to the display. The host device controlling the display to display a first user interface associated with the host device. The host device controlling the display to display a second user interface formed using the first interface with content corresponding to the external device. |
| US08671426B2 |
Scheduling and presenting IPG ads in conjunction with programming ads in a television environment
A method and system whereby conventional television advertisements (i.e., those delivered to viewers while they watch television programming) can be delivered in conjunction with and correlated with advertisements that are presented to viewers in the Interactive Program Guide (IPG). Moreover, the invention described herein provides for delivering highly targeted ads to viewers in both conventional programming avails and in the IPG, and for linking the targeted ads in these two media to provide for enhanced and highly effective advertising campaigns. |
| US08671421B2 |
Reproducing device
There is provided a reproducing device in which a recording medium cartridge is directly inserted into a mechanical deck and placed on a chassis of the mechanical deck for reproduction. The mechanical deck includes an erroneous insertion-preventing portion which conforms to the curved shape of a front surface of the recording medium cartridge in the insertion direction thereof at the time of the insertion in a normal posture. |
| US08671411B2 |
Multithreaded kernel for graphics processing unit
Systems and methods are provided for scheduling the processing of a coprocessor whereby applications can submit tasks to a scheduler, and the scheduler can determine how much processing each application is entitled to as well as an order for processing. In connection with this process, tasks that require processing can be stored in physical memory or in virtual memory that is managed by a memory manager. The invention also provides various techniques of determining whether a particular task is ready for processing. A “run list” may be employed to ensure that the coprocessor does not waste time between tasks or after an interruption. The invention also provides techniques for ensuring the security of a computer system, by not allowing applications to modify portions of memory that are integral to maintaining the proper functioning of system operations. |
| US08671409B2 |
Scheduling method and system, corresponding computational grid and computer program product
A scheduler device schedules executions of jobs using resources of a computational grid. The scheduler is configured for identifying an equilibrium threshold between resources and jobs. Below the equilibrium threshold, the scheduler schedules the execution of the jobs using the resources of the computational grid according to Pareto-optimal strategies. Above the equilibrium threshold, the scheduler schedules the execution of the jobs using the resources of the computational grid according to Nash-equilibrium strategies. |
| US08671406B1 |
Method and system for providing storage services
Method and system are provided for managing components of a storage operating environment having a plurality of virtual machines that can access a storage device managed by a storage system. The virtual machines are executed by a host platform that also executes a processor-executable host services module that interfaces with at least a processor-executable plug-in module for providing information regarding the virtual machines and assists in storage related services, for example, replicating the virtual machines. |
| US08671402B2 |
Network-enhanced control of software updates received via removable computer-readable medium
Methods, apparatuses, and systems for network enhanced controls of software updates received via a computer-readable medium are described. A request for identification information of an image version may be sent from a first computer to a second computer. The first computer may receive identification information of the image version. The first computer may determine whether data representing the image version is stored on a removable computer-readable storage medium. Responsive to determining that data representing the image version is stored on the removable computer-readable storage medium, the first computer may load the data representing the image version from the removable computer-readable storage medium. |
| US08671401B2 |
Tiling across loop nests with possible recomputation
Described is a technology by which a series of loop nests corresponding to source code are detected by a compiler, with the series of loop nests tiled together, (thereby increasing the ratio of cache hits to misses in a multi-processor environment). The compiler transforms the series of loop nests into a plurality of tile loops within a controller loop, including using dependency analysis to determine which results from a tile loop need to be pre-computed before another tile loop. For dependency analysis, the compiler may use a directed acyclic graph as a high-level intermediate representation, and split the graph into sub-graphs each representing an array. The compiler uses descriptors processed from the graph to determine the controller loop and the tile loops within that controller loop. |
| US08671397B2 |
Selective data flow analysis of bounded regions of computer software applications
Performing data flow analysis of a computer software application, including, for a data flow analysis type, identifying within a computer software application code base a plurality of seeds relating to the data flow analysis type, for each of the plurality of seeds, defining a portion of the computer software application code base to a predefined depth of calls backward from the seed and to a predefined depth of calls forward from the seed, thereby resulting in a plurality of bounded portions of the computer software application code base, detecting a change in the computer software application code base, and performing, on any of the bounded portions affected by the change, a data flow analysis relating to the data flow analysis type. |
| US08671395B1 |
Adaptive deadend avoidance in constrained simulation
The present disclosure relates to a method for avoiding deadends in a constrained simulation. The method may include analyzing a first deadend during a simulation and a first constraint of the simulation. The method may further include determining if the first constraint causes the first deadend. If the first constraint causes the first deadend, the method may also include defining a first lookahead constraint corresponding to the first constraint. The method may additionally include rerunning a first previous cycle in the simulation while adding the first lookahead constraint to the simulation. |
| US08671391B2 |
Component model for analytic applications supporting parameterization
In an aspect there is provided a method. The method may include defining an application to include at least one component, the at least one component including at least one parameter; executing the application, wherein the at least one parameter receives a value to enable the application to produce data, wherein the at least one parameter is received from at least one of another component, a user interface, or another program; and providing the produced data to a user interface. Related apparatus, systems, techniques, and articles are also described. |
| US08671386B2 |
Program generating apparatus and block diagram generating apparatus
The apparatus of the present invention includes a block diagram dividing unit that divides a block diagram into a plurality of pieces at a branch point, connects a branch point block element to one end of a data line which has been connected to the branch point at each divided piece and thereby generates a plurality of block diagram pieces, a program instruction generator that generates program instructions for performing processing on each block diagram piece, an execution sequence determining unit that determines an execution sequence of generated program instructions, a structural information generator that generates structural information of each of the block diagram pieces and a program generator that arranges the program instructions according to the execution sequence, writes structural information of each block diagram piece into a comment line of each of the program instructions corresponding to each of the block diagram pieces and thereby generates a program. |
| US08671382B2 |
Method of generating RC technology file
A method of generating resistance-capacitance (RC) technology files is disclosed. The method comprises receiving a plurality of metal schemes from an IC foundry and dividing the plurality of metal schemes into one or more modular RC groups. The method further comprises identifying a modular RC structure; calculating capacitance values of the modular RC structure by means of a field solver; calculating an equivalent dielectric constant and an equivalent height of the RC structure based upon a variety of interconnect layers not having interconnects; calculating an equivalent dielectric constant and an equivalent height for each of the plurality of metal schemes; and deriving capacitance values of each of the plurality of metal schemes from the capacitance values of the modular RC structure. |
| US08671381B1 |
System for optimizing number of dies produced on a wafer
A system for optimizing the number of dies that can be fabricated on a wafer uses a die number optimization (DNO) routine to determine a maximum number of dies for a target die area (TDA), and generate an initial result list of die shapes that have the maximum number of dies for the TDA. Optionally, a die size optimization (DSO) routine can be executed to determine a list of die shapes having a maximum die area corresponding to the maximum number of dies, a first list of optimized die shapes having a maximum area utilization (AU) for a decreased TDA, and/or a second list of optimized die shapes having a minimum AU for an increased TDA. A candidate list (CL) of the various die shapes can be generated, and entries from the CL automatically selected and/or displayed to indicate proposed wafer layouts. |
| US08671378B2 |
Method and system for distributing clock signals on non manhattan semiconductor integrated circuits
The present invention introduces methods, systems, and architectures for routing clock signals in an integrated circuit layout. The introduced clock signal clock signal structures are rendered with non Manhattan routing. In a first embodiment, the traditional recursive H clock signal structure is rendered after transforming the coordinates system such that a rotated recursive H clock signal structure is rendered. In another embodiment, a recursive Y structure is used to create a clock signal structure. The recursive Y structure may also be implemented in a rotated alignment. For clock signal redundancy, non Manhattan wiring may be used to create a clock signal mesh network. |
| US08671374B2 |
Information processing apparatus
An information processing apparatus which includes a storage unit having stored a design data denoting layout and connection of a circuit, and a timing constraint data including a clock skew value denoting a delay difference allowed for a clock inputted to a pair of elements; a data read-out unit for reading out the design data and the timing constraint data; a clock skew value acquisition unit for acquiring the clock skew value set in correspondence with the pair of elements in layout in the circuit denoted by the design data from the timing constraint data; and a slack calculation unit for calculating a delay time between the pair of elements on the basis of the design data, and calculating a slack value indicating whether or not the pair of elements meets a predetermined design requirement by utilizing the acquired clock skew value and the calculated delay time with respect to the pair of elements. |
| US08671372B2 |
Verification support computer product, apparatus, and method
A verification support program that causes a computer to execute identifying from a finite state machine model related to a circuit-under-test, an input count of transitions to a transition-end state and an output count of transitions from the transition-end state; determining the transition-end state to be a record/restore subject, if the identified output transition is greater than the identified input transition count; embedding record-instruction information causing the record/restore subject to be recorded to a database, if a first element causing transition to the record/restore subject is included in a first test scenario that is in a test scenario group related to the circuit-under-test; and embedding restore-instruction information causing the record-restore subject to be restored from the database, if a second element causing transition to the record-restore subject is included in a series of elements making up a second test scenario that is in the test scenario group. |
| US08671365B2 |
Method, apparatus and computer program product for providing a cursor for indicating context data in a mapping application
An apparatus, method and computer program product are provided for providing a cursor for indicating context data in a mapping application. An electronic device may display a map to a user via a mapping application having a cursor. A user may provide input selecting a type of context data to be represented by the cursor. The cursor may be positioned at a location on the map, and the electronic device may obtain context data based on the user input relating to the position and area proximate the position of the cursor on the map. The electronic device may then update a representation of the cursor using visual and other indicia to reflect the context data. |
| US08671359B2 |
Scroll display control
A scroll display control device is provided, which is capable of scroll-displaying a text corresponding to a picture in such manner that the text can be easily understood. The scroll display control device scroll-displays, in synchronism with reproduction of the picture correlated to text information (TI), the corresponding text information (TI) on a text display screen (TW). A scroll speed calculation unit (102) dynamically calculates a text scroll speed (v) on the basis of a time length of a picture section presently under reproduction, a text quantity of the corresponding text section and text display setting information. A picture text control unit (104) scroll-displays text of the text section at a predetermined reference position of the text display screen (TW) according to the scroll speed (v). By displaying preceding and succeeding texts with respect to the text corresponding to the picture section presently under reproduction, it is possible to read back and pre-read. |
| US08671357B2 |
Methods and systems for improved data input, compression, recognition, correction, and translation through frequency-based language analysis
System and method for improving data input by using word frequency to text predict input. Other systems and methods include analyzing words already contained in a document (e.g. spell checking and OCR) and using word frequency to create a proxy system to reduce the space required to store data, allowing for more efficient usage of storage and enhancing the embedded content of matrix codes. The system displays the most common words in a language based upon the previously entered or displayed word(s), or the previously entered or displayed character or characters. Words with the most common frequency of use with the prior word(s) are displayed in a table to enable the user to quickly select one of the displayed words for rapid data entry. The input device can be a touch-sensitive display or non-touch sensitive type device. |
| US08671356B1 |
Dynamic desktop icon
A first desktop icon is displayed on a computer desktop. The icon is configured to enable execution of a first application. Based on an evaluation of business rules, the first icon is changed to a second icon. The second icon is configured to execute a second application. |
| US08671355B2 |
Methods and systems for decluttering icons representing points of interest on a map
Methods and systems are provided for decluttering icons on a map graphically presented on a display. In one implementation, a method is provided for decluttering icons representing points-of-interest on a map, wherein the method includes determining whether icons in a map view are overlapping and grouping the icons which are determined to overlap into at least one icon group. The method may also include repositioning the icons in each icon group into a decluttered icon patterns, wherein repositioning includes repositioning the icons at a predetermined distance from a common focal point. In addition, the method may include adjusting the repositioned icons to a different position in the map view when the repositioned icons overlap. Additionally, or alternatively, the method may include repositioning an icon in at least one decluttered icon pattern to a new position in the map view based on input from a user. |
| US08671353B1 |
Use of a relationship graph for product discovery
A graph including a hub corresponding to a selected or primary item or keyword and a plurality of nodes corresponding to related or secondary items or keywords may be used to express the relationships between items or keywords. Optionally, the graph may include a plurality of tethers extending between the hub and each of the nodes. When used in Internet-based commerce, the relationship graph may recommend related secondary items to a customer who is searching for a primary item, and may further express the degree of relationship between the primary item and each of the secondary items. When the customer selects a node corresponding to a secondary item, a new set of nodes corresponding to tertiary items related to the selected secondary item may be displayed. In this manner, the relationships between the primary item and more distant tertiary items may also be represented to the customer. |
| US08671352B1 |
Variable dimension version editing for graphical designs
Computer-implemented methods for allowing users to specify interactive graphical designs are provided. The graphical designs can comprise multiple dimension versions—such as a tablet dimension version or a phone dimension version. Some of the methods involve an inheritance structure that defines a first dimension version of the design as a child of a second dimension version of the design. Specifications for properties of widgets in the graphical design are applied to the design in accordance with the inheritance specification. Some of the methods involve an inheritance characterization that determines how properties of a widget are affected by the inheritance structure across different dimension versions. Some of the methods involve an existence property for the widgets. |
| US08671349B2 |
Virtual universe teleportation suggestion service
The present invention is directed to a system, method and program product for providing teleportation suggestions to avatars in a virtual universe. A service is provided that determines the set of teleportation suggestions for the avatar based on at least one of: an inventory analysis of the avatar, a historical teleportation analysis of the avatar, a motion analysis of the avatar, a social network analysis of the avatar, or a ratings analysis of locations within the virtual universe. |
| US08671342B2 |
Desired font rendering
An embodiment of the invention provides a method for displaying a message from a first user to a second user, wherein the message from the first user is received in a system of the second user. The message includes text in an intended font and metadata, wherein the metadata includes a link to a font source. It is determined whether the intended font is on the system of the second user; and, if the intended font is not on the system of the second user, rendering instructions are obtained from the font source. The rendering instructions include instructions on how to display the text in the intended font on the system of the second user without downloading the intended font to the system of the second user. The text is displayed in the intended font on the system of the second user using the rendering instructions. |
| US08671333B2 |
Adaptive encoding and decoding for error protected packet-based frames
A communication system transmitter comprises an adaptive error correction encoder. The adaptive error correction encoder is configured to generate a plurality of error correction frames with each such error correction frame comprising a plurality of data packets and one or more error correction packets. A given one of the error correction packets comprises information relating to the plurality of data packets of its corresponding frame and additional information relating to a different one of the error correction frames. The additional information may be inserted into a header of the given error correction packet, and may comprise a next frame sequence number indicator and a corresponding next frame mask value for a subsequent one of the error correction frames. Other aspects of the invention relate to a communication system receiver comprising an adaptive FEC decoder, adaptive FEC encoding and decoding methods, integrated circuits, and associated computer program products. |
| US08671332B2 |
Systems and methods for a rateless round robin protocol for adaptive error control
Systems and methods implementing a protocol that provides reliable transport over a point-to-point link characterized by deep and sustained fades. Such a communications link may be a free space optical channel or may be a radio frequency point-to-point channel. Data frames are processed through a circular data buffer that operates in a round robin fashion at a transmission node. The coding and forward error correction processes allow for continued operation in spite of possible signal fades due to atmospheric turbulence or other causes. At a receive node, incoming data is also saved in a circular buffer. A re-acknowledgment list is maintained at the receive node for tracking recently received and decoded data. This allows for a new acknowledgment to be sent in the event that a previously sent acknowledgment failed to reach the transmission node. |
| US08671331B2 |
Apparatus and method for communicating FEC mode and alarming mismatch
A multi-mode transmission unit processes data to form an error correction code in accordance with one of a plurality of selectable processes. The data, correction code and a process identifier can be transmitted to a receiving unit which can carry out error correction of the data in accordance with the identified process. |
| US08671329B2 |
Low overhead and timing improved architecture for performing error checking and correction for memories and buses in system-on-chips, and other circuits, systems and processes
An electronic circuit (200) for use with an accessing circuit (110) that supplies a given address and a partial write data portion and also has dummy cycles. The electronic circuit (200) includes a memory circuit (230) accessible at addresses, an address buffer (410), a data buffer (440) coupled to the memory circuit (230), and a control circuit (246) operable in the dummy cycles to read data from the memory circuit (230) to the data buffer (440) from a next address location in the memory circuit (230) and to store that next address in the address buffer (410). The electronic circuit further includes a multiplexer (430), a comparing circuit (420) responsive to the given address and a stored address in the address buffer (410), to operate the multiplexer (430) to pass data from the data buffer (440) or to pass data from the memory circuit (230) instead; and a mixer circuit (450) operable to put the partial write data portion into the data taken from the selected one of the data buffer (440) or memory circuit (230). Other circuits, devices, systems, processes of operation and processes of manufacture are also disclosed. |
| US08671328B2 |
Error correction code techniques for matrices with interleaved codewords
A decoding system includes a decoder, a first module and a second module. The decoder is configured to receive data read from an optical storage medium and perform a first decoding iteration and a second decoding iteration to decode the data. The first decoding iteration includes generating a resultant matrix. The first module is configured to, based on first decoding statuses of multiple bytes in the resultant matrix, determine second decoding statuses of bytes proximate to failed bytes of a feedback matrix. The feedback matrix is generated based on the resultant matrix. The first module is configured to mark selected ones of the failed bytes as erasures based on the second decoding statuses. The second module is configured to correct one or more of the bytes marked as erasures during the second decoding iteration. |
| US08671323B2 |
High throughput decoder architecture for low-density parity-check convolutional codes
A Low-Density Parity-Check Convolutional Code (LPDCCC) decoder (10) for partial parallel decoding of low-density parity-check convolutional codes, the decoder having: a plurality of pipeline processors (11) to receive channel messages and edge-messages; each processor (11) having: a plurality of block processing units (BPUs) (13), each BPU (13) having a plurality of check node processors (CNPs) (14) to process check nodes that enter into the processor (11) and a plurality of variable node processors (VNPs) (15) to process variable nodes that are about to leave the processor (11); and a plurality of Random Access Memory (RAM) blocks (30) for dynamic message storage of the channel messages and the edge-messages; wherein in each processor (11), the VNPs (15) are directly connected to corresponding RAM blocks (30), and the CNPs (14) are directly connected to corresponding RAM blocks (30) such that the connections from the VNPs (15) and CNPs (14) to the corresponding RAM blocks (30) are pre-defined and fixed according to a parity-check matrix of an unterminated time-varying periodic LDPCCC. |
| US08671322B2 |
Management of ARQ detection threshold in communication networks
Embodiments of a system and methodology are disclosed for enabling a network to manage threshold values provided to UEs for use in decoding ACK-NAK signals. In various embodiments described herein, a base station signals an actual fixed threshold value in a semi-static manner for use by UEs to decode ACK/NAK signals. In these embodiments, the threshold value is part of a semi-static but UE-specific threshold value. This allows the base station to accommodate varying UE geometries, and optimize power savings for ACK-NAK transmissions. Embodiments of the invention also allow the base station to enforce a desired quality of service (QoS) without excessive power variations across ACK/NAK which are limited by the transmit power dynamic range. |
| US08671319B2 |
Dynamic device identification for making a JTAG debug connection with a internet browser
An operating system independent JTAG debugging system implemented to run in a web browser. The software executing in the browser identifies the JTAG enabled components in the target system that is to be tested, and automatically downloads the latest versions of the appropriate software, JTAG drivers and configuration information from a test server. |
| US08671318B2 |
Core circuit including dual mode TAP and scan test port
Connection circuitry couples scan test port (STP) circuitry to test access port (TAP) circuitry. The connection circuitry has inputs connected to scan circuitry control output leads from the TAP circuitry, a select input lead, and a clock input lead. The connection circuitry has outputs connected to a scan enable (SE) input lead, a capture select (CS) input lead, and the scan clock (CK) input lead of the STP circuitry. The connection circuitry includes a multiplexer having a control input connected with a clock select lead from the TAP circuitry, an input connected with a functional clock lead, an input connected with the clock input lead, an input connected with a Clock-DR lead from the TAP circuitry, an OFF lead, and an output connected with the scan clock input lead. |
| US08671317B2 |
Built-in self test circuit and designing apparatus
According to one embodiment, a semiconductor integrated circuit includes at least one memory and at least one built-in self test (BIST) circuit. In the memory, data can be stored. The BIST circuit tests the memory and includes an address generator. The address generator operates in one of a first operating mode and a second operating mode. In the first operating mode, address signals corresponding to all addresses of the memory are generated. In the second operating mode, the address signals are generated such that each bit of an address input of the memory can be one signal state of both 0 and 1 and such that different bits constitute a set of pieces of data in which the bits choose different signal states at least once. |
| US08671315B2 |
Prognostic analysis system and methods of operation
A prognostic analysis system and methods of operating the system are provided. In particular, a prognostic analysis system for the analysis of physical system health applicable to mechanical, electrical, chemical and optical systems and methods of operating the system are described herein. |
| US08671309B2 |
Mechanism for advanced server machine check recovery and associated system software enhancements
Embodiments of a hardware processor including a plurality of machine state registers (MSRs) are described. At least one of the MSRs includes an erroring logical processing (ELP) bit which when set, indicates that a particular thread executing on the hardware processor caused an error. |
| US08671306B2 |
Scaling out a messaging system
A messaging system may operate on multiple processor partitions in several configurations to provide queuing and topic subscription services on a large scale. A queue service may receive messages from a multiple transmitting services and distribute the messages to a single service. A topic subscription service may receive messages from multiple transmitting services, but distribute the messages to multiple recipients, often with a filter applied to each recipient where the filter defines which messages may be transmitted by the recipient. Large queues or topic subscriptions may be divided across multiple processor partitions with separate sets of recipients for each partition in some cases, or with duplicate sets of recipients in other cases. |
| US08671303B2 |
Write-leveling implementation in programmable logic devices
Circuits, methods, and apparatus for memory interfaces that compensate for skew between a clock signal and DQ/DQS signals that may be caused by a fly-by routing topology. The skew is compensated by clocking the DQ/DQS signals with a phase delayed clock signal, where the phase delay has been calibrated. In one example calibration routine, a clock signal is provided to a receiving device. A DQ/DQS signal is also provided and the timing of their reception compared. A delay of the DQ/DQS signal is changed incrementally until the DQ/DQS signal is aligned with the clock signal at the receiving device. This delay is then used during device operation to delay a signal that clocks registers providing the DQ/DQS signals. Each DQ/DQS group can be aligned to the clock, or the DQS and DQ signals in a group may be independently aligned to the clock at the receiving device. |
| US08671298B2 |
System and method for improving power supply efficiency
A method may include: calculating approximate power requirements of components, the components supplied with electrical energy from a plurality of power supplies, each of one or more of the plurality of power supplies capable of being enabled and disabled from supplying electrical energy to the components; determining a set of possible configurations of the plurality of power supplies such that for each possible configuration, enabled power supplies of the possible configuration have adequate aggregate capacity to deliver the approximate power requirements and switching to the possible configuration from a then-present configuration would require no more than one of then-disabled power supplies be enabled and no more than one of then-enabled power supplies be disabled; and determining which of the set of possible configurations has the highest expected power efficiency. |
| US08671295B2 |
Generating a signal to reduce computer system power consumption from signals provided by a plurality of power supplies
A signal suitable for signaling a computer system to reduce power consumption is generated from a plurality of power supplies. The signal is asserted when at least one of the power supplies of the plurality of power supplies signals impairment, and at least one of the power supplies of the plurality of power supplies signals that the power supply is supplying current above a threshold level. |
| US08671292B2 |
Ethernet powered computing device and system
Apparatus and systems provide processing capabilities while utilizing power received via an Ethernet. A computing device has an Ethernet connector for receiving power and data, internal power supply circuitry for extracting power from the Ethernet connector, and a Central Processing Unit (CPU) for receiving the power. A housing may encompass the components of the computing device and be configured for installation in an electrical wall box. The housing may include a display or connectors for peripherals. A system includes at least two computing devices. Each device has an Ethernet connector for receiving power and communicating with other devices and are installed within a housing within an electrical wall box. One device has a display for receiving user input instructions for transmittal to another device, while another device has a peripheral connector for controlling a peripheral according to the instructions. |
| US08671288B2 |
Processor with power control via instruction issuance
Methods and apparatuses are provided for controlling power consumption in a processor (or computational unit thereof). The method comprises monitoring power consumption in a processor (or computational unit) and determining that the power consumption of the processor (or computational unit) exceeds a threshold. Thereafter, instruction issuance if modified (such as by slowing or ceasing instruction issuance) within the processor (or computational unit) until the power consumption is below the threshold. The apparatus comprises a power consumption monitor for determining when power consumption within the processor exceeds a threshold. Upon that determination, a scheduler begins modify instruction issuance to one or more execution units until the power consumption is below the threshold. The modification of instruction issuance can be to slow instruction issuance or cease instruction issuance for a time period or until the power consumption is below the threshold. |
| US08671281B1 |
System and method for single sign on process for websites with multiple applications and services
A system and method for integrating the Internet front end-sign on processes of the various systems of a financial institution which allows a customer to view and access its various financial accounts with the institution.During the initial sign up for the online access to its accounts, a customer creates his/her User ID and password online during the same session. Once the customer has signed on (password) and verified ownership of at least one account, the system displays all of the customer's accounts that are available for access via the Internet website. The online ownership verification uses only a single account of the customer and the ownership verification criteria associated with the account. The account used for verifying a customer is first determined based on the accounts selected by the customer for accessing online. From the selected accounts, the system of the present invention creates a verification hierarchy with respect to the accounts. When determining the verification to use for the single ownership verification, the present invention selects the account from the hierarchy with the most stringent requirements. |
| US08671277B2 |
Method for secure communication over heterogeneous networks
A method for securely communicating a message from a source node to a destination node over a network can comprise the steps of converting the message into an initial bit sequence, pre-processing the initial bit sequence by a modulo adding the initial bit sequence with an auxiliary key message, constructing a reduced network, determining a multitude of paths from the source node to the destination node over the reduced network, constructing an expanded bit sequence comprising the initial bit sequence and the auxiliary key message, splitting the expanded bit sequence into two or more parts, transmitting the two or more parts of the expanded bit sequence over two or more paths of the multitude of paths, re-assembling the two or more parts of the expanded bit sequence at the destination node, and recovering the initial bit sequence by modulo adding the expanded bit sequence with the auxiliary key message. |
| US08671275B2 |
Mechanism to handle events in a machine with isolated execution
A platform and method for secure handling of events in an isolated environment. A processor executing in isolated execution “IsoX” mode may leak data when an event occurs as a result of the event being handled in a traditional manner based on the exception vector. By defining a class of events to be handled in IsoX mode, and switching between a normal memory map and an IsoX memory map dynamically in response to receipt of an event of the class, data security may be maintained in the face of such events. |
| US08671273B2 |
Method of performance-aware security of unicast communication in hybrid satellite networks
A method and apparatus utilizes Layered IPSEC (LES) protocol as an alternative to IPSEC for network-layer security including a modification to the Internet Key Exchange protocol. For application-level security of web browsing with acceptable end-to-end delay, the Dual-mode SSL protocol (DSSL) is used instead of SSL. The LES and DSSL protocols achieve desired end-to-end communication security while allowing the TCP and HTTP proxy servers to function correctly. |
| US08671260B2 |
Memory system
According to one embodiment, a memory system includes a memory that includes a plurality of parallel operation elements, each of which stores therein write data from a host device and on each of which read/write is individually performed, a control unit that performs the read/write to the parallel operation elements simultaneously, and a required-performance measuring unit that measures a required performance from the host device are included. The control unit changes the number of simultaneous executions of the read/write of the parallel operation elements based on the required performance measured by the required-performance measuring unit. |
| US08671259B2 |
Storage system data hardening
A bridge receives a power down command and in response converts the power down command to a data hardening command. The bridge issues the data hardening command to a solid state disk. In response to the data hardening command, data stored on the solid state disk is hardened. The hardening comprises writing data in volatile memory to non-volatile memory. The data that is hardened comprises user data and protected data. The data hardening command optionally comprises one or more of a flush cache command, a sleep command, and a standby immediate command. |
| US08671253B2 |
Facilitation of simultaneous storage initialization and data destage
Various embodiments for storage initialization and data destage in a computing storage environment are provided. At least a portion of data on a storage device is initialized using a background process, while one of simultaneously and subsequently destaging the at least the portion of the data to the storage device using a foreground process is performed. A persistent metadata bitmap, adapted to indicate whether the at least the portion of the data has been initialized, is staged to cache, the cache operable in the computing storage environment. The background process maintains a volatile bitmap indicating a status of the initialization of the at least the portion of the data in direct correspondence to the metadata bitmap. As the background process initializes the at least the portion of the data, an applicable bit on the persistent metadata bitmap is cleared and a corresponding bit is set on the volatile bitmap. |
| US08671252B2 |
Scalable memory system
A memory system architecture has serially connected memory devices. The memory system is scalable to include any number of memory devices without any performance degradation or complex redesign. Each memory device has a serial input/output interface for communicating between other memory devices and a memory controller. The memory controller issues commands in at least one bitstream, where the bitstream follows a modular command protocol. The command includes an operation code with optional address information and a device address, so that only the addressed memory device acts upon the command. Separate data output strobe and command input strobe signals are provided in parallel with each output data stream and input command data stream, respectively, for identifying the type of data and the length of the data. The modular command protocol is used for executing concurrent operations in each memory device to further improve performance. |
| US08671247B2 |
Transfer of bus-based operations to demand-side machines
An L2 cache, method and computer program product for transferring an inbound bus operation to a processor side handling machine. The method includes a bus operation handling machine accepting the inbound bus operation received over a system interconnect, the bus operation handling machine identifying a demand operation of the processor side handling machine that will complete the bus operation, the bus operation handling machine sending the identified demand operation to the processor side handling machine, and the processor side handling machine performing the identified demand operation. |
| US08671246B2 |
Information processing system and information processing method
An information processing system performs a prefetch for predicting data that is likely to be accessed by a central processing unit, reading the predicted data from a main memory, and storing the data in a cache area in advance. The information processing system includes a usage information storage unit that stores therein usage information indicating whether prefetched data has been accessed; and a usage information writing unit that writes the usage information of the prefetched data in the usage information storage unit. |
| US08671241B2 |
Systems and methods for using reserved solid state nonvolatile memory storage capacity for system reduced power state
Systems and methods that may be implemented to utilize the same portion of solid state nonvolatile memory for both managing system running data during a system working state and to store previous working state data written from system volatile memory during a low power state when the system volatile memory is depowered. The previous working state information may include data and instructions that may be employed to restore the previous working state of the information handling system prior to entering the low power state and terminating power to the system volatile memory. |
| US08671238B2 |
Robust live migration using shared filesystem
A method for transferring guest physical memory from a source host to a destination host during live migration of a virtual machine (VM) involves creating a file on a shared datastore, the file on the shared datastore being accessible to both the source host and the destination host. Pages of the guest physical memory are transferred from the source host to the destination host over a network connection and pages of the guest physical memory are written to the file so that the destination host can retrieve the written guest physical pages from the file. |
| US08671237B2 |
Patient monitoring platform interface
Physical monitoring systems are disclosed which may include a platform interface between a platform device and a monitoring module. The platform interface may allow physiological information from a patient such as sensor signal data, physiological trend data, other suitable data, or combinations thereof to be communicated from the monitoring module to the platform device. The platform interface may include a connector with pins configured to receive UART communications, transmit UART communications, communicate diagnostic information, be coupled to a ground, be coupled to a serial clock, receive serial data, transmit serial data, be coupled to a regulated power supply, be coupled to an unregulated power supply, communicate using USB standard, communicate using any other suitable standards, perform any other suitable functions, or any combinations thereof. The monitoring module may connect directly to the platform device, or a wired cable with suitable connectors may be used to electrically couple the monitoring module to the platform device. |
| US08671236B2 |
Computer bus with enhanced functionality
A method for computing includes connecting a host device to a peripheral device via a bus that is physically configured in accordance with a predefined standard and includes multiple connection pins that are specified by the standard, including a plurality of ground pins. At least one pin, selected from among the pins on the bus that are specified as the ground pins, is used in order to indicate to the peripheral device that the host device has an extended operational capability. |
| US08671233B2 |
Techniques for reducing memory write operations using coalescing memory buffers and difference information
Techniques are described for reducing write operations in memory. In use, write operations to be performed on data stored in memory are identified. A difference is then determined between results of the write operations and the data stored in the memory. Difference information is stored in coalescing memory buffers. To this end, the write operations may be reduced, utilizing the difference information. |
| US08671230B2 |
Data transfer device and data transfer method
A data transfer device includes a storage controller that stores received response data in a buffer with respect to each piece of identification information included in the response data when receiving the response data from a first device, the response data being transferred from the first device in response to a transfer request transferred from a second device, a counting unit that counts a number of pieces of the response data stored in the buffer by the storage controller with respect to each piece of the identification information, and a determination unit that determines whether the number counted by the counting unit reaches a specified value preliminarily set with respect to each piece of the identification information. |
| US08671226B2 |
Transaction control arrangement for device management system
A method for arranging transaction control in a device management system. A required transaction control operation is defined in a managing device for arranging transaction control of a management task for a managed device. At least one device management command is defined for the transaction control operation. The at least one device management command is transmitted to the managed device. A required transaction control operation is specified in the managed device onasis of one or more received device management commands, and transaction control for a management task is carried out on the basis of the defined transaction control operation. |
| US08671224B2 |
Computer network defense
Training defense of a computer network. The system includes an enterprise asset subsystem to be defended. The enterprise asset subsystem runs operating system, support services, and application programs. The system also includes a neutral subsystem that is in communication with the enterprise asset subsystem and is used to set up and run at least one exercise scenario, and score performance of enterprise asset defenders in defending the system against exploits. Exploits are launched by an exploitation subsystem communication with the enterprise asset subsystem. |
| US08671223B1 |
Methods and systems for utilizing delta coding in acceleration proxy servers
The present invention relates to systems, apparatus, and methods of utilizing delta coding in acceleration proxy servers. The method including storing, at a proxy server, a plurality of dictionary pages within a page storage disk and indexing, at the proxy server, the plurality of dictionary pages with fingerprint identifiers. The fingerprint identifiers are configured to uniquely identify data strings within each of the plurality of dictionary pages. The method further includes receiving, at the proxy server, a data request. The request includes a plurality of fingerprints associated with the requested data. |
| US08671221B2 |
Method and system for increasing speed of domain name system resolution within a computing device
A system for resolving domain name system (DNS) queries, contains a communication device for resolving DNS queries, wherein the communication device further contains a memory and a processor that is configured by the memory, a cache storage for use by the communication device, and a network of authoritative domain name servers, where in a process of the communication device looking up a DNS request within the cache storage, if the communication device views an expired DNS entry within the cache storage, the communication device continues the process of looking up the DNS request in the cache storage while, in parallel, sending out a concurrent DNS request to an authoritative domain name server that the expired DNS entry belongs to. |
| US08671219B2 |
Method and apparatus for efficiently processing data packets in a computer network
According to an embodiment of the invention, a network device such as a router or switch provides efficient data packet handling capability. The network device includes one or more input ports for receiving data packets to be routed, as well as one or more output ports for transmitting data packets. The network device includes an integrated port controller integrated circuit for routing packets. The integrated circuit includes an interface circuit, a received packets circuit, a buffer manager circuit for receiving data packets from the received packets circuit and transmitting data packets in one or more buffers and reading data packets from the one or more buffers. The integrated circuit also includes a rate shaper counter for storing credit for a traffic class, so that the integrated circuit can support input and/or output rate shaping. The integrated circuit may be associated with an IRAM, a CAM, a parameter memory configured to hold routing and/or switching parameters, which may be implemented as a PRAM, and an aging RAM, which stores aging information. The aging information may be used by a CPU coupled to the integrated circuit via a system interface circuit to remove entries from the CAM and/or the PRAM when an age count exceeds an age limit threshold for the entries. |
| US08671218B2 |
Method and system for a weak membership tie-break
In general, the invention relates to a method for managing a two-node cluster. The method includes determining, by a first server node, that a second server node is disconnected from the two-node cluster when a first heartbeat response is not received from the second server node and sending a first echo request from the first server node to a first external system, where the first external system is specified on each server node of the two-node cluster. The method further includes receiving a first echo response for the first echo request from the first external system at the first server node and, in response to receiving the first echo response, providing, by the first server node, services of the two-node cluster independent of the second server node. |
| US08671216B2 |
Method and apparatus for improving bandwidth efficiency in a computer network
A method for operating a server to improve bandwidth efficiency in a computer network is disclosed. The server is operable to transmit files between a memory of the server and destinations on the computer network through a communication link having a finite bandwidth. The files are distinguishable by type and the server is provided with a rule set for prioritizing transmission of files by type. The method comprises monitoring a bandwidth usage of the communication link, and triggering application of the rule set when the bandwidth usage exceeds a threshold amount. The threshold amount is determined relative to the finite bandwidth. The method further comprises distinguishing between the files according to type, and prioritizing transmission of the files according to type and according to the rule set. |
| US08671215B2 |
Portable communications framework
Embodiments of the present invention provide a portable MTP framework. In an embodiment, the portable MTP framework includes an MTP communications stack and a portability layer. The portability layer decouples the MTP communications stack from the underlying platform, storage, and transport components, thereby achieving transport protocol, platform, and storage media independence. The portable MTP framework according to embodiments of the present invention includes platform-specific software components, including, for example, communications device drivers (USB, TCP/IP, etc.), a transport controller, a session handler, storage device drivers (USB drive, SD card, Hard disk, etc.), a storage controller, and a platform interface. The portable MTP framework further includes application-specific software components, including, for example, an MTP router, MTP agents, and MTP managers. |
| US08671214B2 |
Customizing perishable content of a media channel
A user can specify particular news, weather, traffic, or other perishable content received on a particular Internet radio station or other media channel. The user can customize the station so that wherever the user is currently located, he can receive perishable content related to a preferred geographic location or other category. In some embodiments, a user can specify that a customized station plays local news from one city at the top of the hour, traffic from another city at 10 minutes past the hour, and music or other content at other times. The user can also customize the station to select the perishable content, or other original content, from the personal libraries of specified users. Thus, a user can customize not only the genre of content or select a particular local station, but can also modify the perishable content provided by the customized station. |
| US08671210B2 |
Methods, devices, systems, and computer program products for managing and delivering a live media stream
Method, devices, systems, and computer program products for managing and delivering a live media stream associated with a network-enabled media recording device are provided. A method includes receiving a network address for transmitting the live media stream captured by the network-enabled media recording device. The method also includes assigning a user identification to the live media stream. The user identification is associated with the network-enabled media recording device. The method further includes transmitting the live media stream and user identification via the network-enabled media recording device over a network. |
| US08671208B2 |
System and method for adaptively routing peer-to-peer (P2P) communications
Methods and systems for connecting communication devices in a network are provided. A first and a second communication devices are connected to a proxy in the network. The proxy being configured for routing signals between the first and second communication devices. Respective network protection types of the first and second communication devices are determined, and used to determine whether a peer-to-peer connection can be made between the first and second communication devices. If the peer-to-peer connection can be made, the first and second communication devices are enabled to communicate with each other via the peer-to-peer connection. If the peer-to-peer connection cannot be made, the proxy is enabled to continue routing signals between the first and second communication devices. |
| US08671206B2 |
Apparatus and mechanism for dynamic assignment of survivability services to mobile devices
A system, a method and a device are each configured for dynamic assignment of survivability services to communication devices (such as, e.g. tablets, smart phones, mobile phones, laptops or other types of mobile communication devices) based on the device's current location and network context. Survivability services provide session and service continuity in case a centralized or cloud based session management service that may be hosted by one or more remote computer devices, such as for example servers, is not reachable due to network failure or service failure. |
| US08671205B2 |
Cooperative proxy auto-discovery and connection interception
In a network supporting transactions between clients and servers and proxies that are interposable in a network path, a pair of proxies can modify a packet stream such that packet data from client to server is transformed at a client-side proxy of the pair and untransformed at a server-side of the pair and packet data from server to client is transformed at the server-side proxy and untransformed at the client-side proxy. A discovering proxy transparently discovers its position in a proxy pair by using proxy signals. A discovering proxy might determine that it is a client-side proxy by receipt of a packet from client without a proxy signal, or that it is a server-side proxy by receipt of a packet from server without a return proxy signal. Once a proxy pair is discovered, it might transform traffic from server to client or vice versa, transforming and untransforming the traffic. |
| US08671202B2 |
Mechanisms for role negotiation in the establishment of secure communication channels in peer-to-peer environments
Methods of establishing secure communication channels in peer-to-peer environments are provided that eliminate role conflicts between peers by determining which peer will act as a client and which the peer will act as a server in a secure connection handshake. In one embodiment, an attribute of the handshake messages are used in a tiebreaker process to determine which peer assumes the role of the server. In another embodiment, the attribute may be used to compute a wait period for each peer, or the wait period may be based on a random time period, and the peers cancel their request and resent requests after waiting their respective time periods. |
| US08671201B2 |
Correlation of sessions in case of session transfer in IMS domain
The invention relates to session control in an IMS domain of a communications network and more particularly to techniques for performing session transfer in an IMS control node (SCC AS) for controlling centralized services in an IMS domain. One embodiment of an SCC AS (200) may be adapted to store, for each of a plurality of ongoing communication sessions, a session information item (218) comprising a user identity (222) identifying a user device involved in the session and a first identifier (216) of the user device in a CS domain of the communications network, wherein the user identity is associated with multiple user devices and the first identifier comprises at least one of an MSISDN (216), an IMSI, and a GRUU. |
| US08671198B2 |
Resource acquisition and manipulation from within a virtual universe
The present invention is directed to a system, method and program product that allows a user to access resources on a local computer during a session with a virtual universe. Disclosed is a system that obtains an inventory of resources from the client computer and generates renderings of the resources in the virtual universe. Also included is a resource interaction system for allowing an avatar to interact with the resources in the virtual universe, wherein the resource interaction system provides a transport facility for loading resources from the client computer to the virtual universe. |
| US08671196B2 |
Systems and methods for accessing telescopes
A user obtains, views and stores image data of a selected celestial object from a network of available telescopes using a computer-generated user interface. Based on the selected object, information is accessed regarding each telescope from data sources such as databases and/or live data feeds to automatically select telescopes that are suitable for imaging the object, e.g., according to factors such as telescope type, power and configuration, location, weather conditions and altitude. The user may select a particular telescope and imaging time from a schedule of available telescopes and imaging times. At the scheduled time, an image is recorded of the celestial object and communicated to a central data store for access by the user, e.g., via a web site The user may be charged for the service based on factors such as exposure time, scheduling priority, type of telescope and the like. |
| US08671195B2 |
Digital media communication protocol
A digital media communication protocol structured to selectively transmit one or more digital media files between a media terminal and a media node via a communication link on an interactive computer network. The communication link is initiated by the media terminal, wherein the media terminal is disposed in an accessible relation to the interactive computer network. The digital media communication protocol, and in particular, the communication link, is further structured to bypass at least one security measure, such as, for example, a password, security key, and/or firewall. |
| US08671191B2 |
Installation system for demand response resources
An installation system for demand response resources. The system may invoke a use of an installer portal to increase an efficiency of installing resources for demand response systems. Installation of such resources may incorporate registering a client with a particular customer, configuring the client with parameters, installing the client, confirming that the client is communicating properly with a demand response management system, connecting the client to various components at a resource facility, and confirming that the client sends usage or other data correctly to the demand response management system. |
| US08671190B2 |
Measuring page viewership in a social network
A social networking system includes pages created by users for providing content related to topics of interest. An interaction engine captures data and maintains analytical information about how users interact with pages and posts. When a user takes an action such as liking a page or a post, the interaction engine updates the page's activity history to reflect the activity and information about the user who took the action. The interaction engine also measures the reach of pages and posts, by determining how and from where each user viewed the page and its contents. The interaction engine further tracks the community's interest in pages and posts by determining how many unique users create stories that include a page or its content. An insights module uses the data obtained by the interaction engine to synthesize graphical reports about page interactions and present the reports to page administrators. |
| US08671182B2 |
System and method for resolving operating system or service identity conflicts
A system includes a processor device. The processor device is configured to receive reports of operating system identities for a single host; determine which of the operating system identities are an intersection of the reported operating system identities; and assign the intersection of the reported operating system identities as a resolved operating system identity. |
| US08671178B2 |
Information processing system and method providing a remote access
An information processing system for offering a remote access from a device to a virtual service provided in a local network is provided. The virtual service invokes native services provisioned by a service provider. The system comprising: a management unit managing service information specifying a shortcut component of the service; an obtaining unit obtaining a request for the virtual service from the device; a receiving unit receiving the service information from the management unit; a specification unit specifying a shortcut component for the requested virtual service based on the received service information; an invoking unit executing the specified shortcut component by invoking native services to the service provider, and transferring the other component of the requested virtual service to the local network; a combination unit combining results; and a response unit responding the combined result to the device. |
| US08671174B2 |
Management of shared client device and device manager
A method of classifying a client device and a device manager to allow for end users to share devices is described. |
| US08671171B2 |
Wireless configuration for a computing device
Wireless configuration for a computing device, the computing device including computer memory, a wireless receiver, and a device configuration management module, including: receiving, by the device configuration management module via the wireless receiver, configuration data for the computing device, wherein the computing device is packaged in original equipment manufacturer (‘OEM’) packaging; and storing, by the device configuration management module, the configuration data for the computing device in the computer memory of the computing device. |
| US08671169B2 |
Method and system for opening/blocking service
A method for activating/deactivating a service is disclosed, and the method includes: when a user creates an end-to-end service, a system saves service related information of the service; when a user chooses to activate or deactivate a service, the system calculates the configuration required in activating or deactivating the service based on the service related information of the service; and the system detects whether the resources related to the service are available based on the configuration required in activating or deactivating the service, and when the resource related to the service are available, the corresponding configuration is packaged and sent to a corresponding network element device for execution. A corresponding system for activating/deactivating a service is also disclosed. |
| US08671168B2 |
Identification of the location of nodes distributed in ad hoc networks
A location of node i in a network having a plurality of nodes is identified by intersecting regions that are guaranteed to contain the node i with respect the other nodes that are neighbors of the node i and iteratively minimizing the size of the intersection region containing the node i. |
| US08671165B2 |
Method, cell phone and system for accessing a computer resource over a network via microphone-captured audio
The disclosure relates to accessing computer resources by sensing audio with a microphone. One claim recites a method comprising: obtaining data in a first user's cell phone, the data corresponding to microphone-captured audio; responsive to the data, the first user's cell phone receiving a service provided by a first party, the service comprising facilitating access to a computer resource over a network; in which the first user does not provide a fee to the first party for the service, as the first party bills a charge connected with the service to a sponsoring party. Of course, other claims and combinations are provided as well. |
| US08671162B2 |
System and method for pushing data to a mobile device
A method for handling information requests from mobile devices includes a memory, a state prediction module, and a push module. The memory is operable to store data requests received from the mobile devices. The state prediction module is operable to access the memory to predict forecasted data requests for a mobile device based on the stored data requests. The push module is operable to receive the forecasted data requests from the state prediction module and in response request and receive response data related to the forecasted data requests and prepare the response data for transmission to the mobile device over a wireless network. |
| US08671161B2 |
Method for realizing user registration
A method for implementing user registration based on Diameter network protocol comprises: after receiving a network attaching request of a user, a requesting node sending an Update Location Request (ULR) message to HSS of the user, the message including information indicating whether it is necessary to download user subscription data, and also includes information indicating the capability of the requesting node when the downloading is necessary; upon receiving the ULR message, the HSS of the user returning an Update Location Ack message to the requesting node if the check of the user is passed; if the ULR message indicates that it is necessary to download the user subscription data, HSS determining the user subscription data supported by the requesting node according to the information indicating the capability of the requesting node, and including the user subscription data in the Update Location Ack message and then returning it to the requesting node. |
| US08671159B2 |
Technique for previously providing estimate of time required for processing
Methods and systems for communicating information between a server device and one or more client devices. The client device comprises a transmitter to transmit a processing request to the server device in response to an input operation by a user, a display to display an object on a screen which can receive the input operation from the user, and an obtaining section to obtain from the server device both an initial estimate of time required for processing that will be executed by the server device in response to the processing request, and one or more updated estimates of required processing time if a certain amount of time has elapsed since the previous estimate. |
| US08671158B2 |
Method and apparatus for editing, filtering, ranking and approving content
The system provides a method and apparatus for editing, filtering, ranking and approving content. In one embodiment, the system provides a browsing environment for children that routes all internet requests through a central server. A request to a blocked website is automatically forwarded to one of a plurality of editors who can then access the site and determine on a page or site basis as to whether the request is suitable for the browsing environment. The system includes a workflow management system that determines which of the plurality of editors will be assigned a link to review. Approved content is categorized by the age and gender of the users of the content. The approved content is also categorized as a resource or reference to assist in accomplishing homework assignments. Parents can receive updates and can manage the content remotely. |
| US08671151B2 |
Maintaining item-to-node mapping information in a distributed system
A method and apparatus for maintaining an item-to-node mapping among nodes in a distributed cluster is provided. Each node maintains locally-stored system-state information indicating that node's understanding of which master nodes are alive and dead. Instead of employing a global item-to-node mapping, each node acts upon a locally determined mapping based on its locally-stored system-state information. For any two nodes with the same locally-stored system-state information, the locally determined mapping is the same. A node updates its locally-stored system-state information upon detecting a node failure or receiving a message from another node indicating different locally-stored system-state information. The new locally-stored system-state information is transmitted on a need-to-know basis, and consequently nodes with different item-to-node mappings may operate concurrently. Mechanisms to avoid nodes assuming conflicting ownership of items are employed, thus allowing node failures to propagate via asynchronous messaging instead of requiring a cluster-wide synchronization event. |
| US08671145B2 |
Method and computer program product for establishing real-time communications between networked computers
A system, method, and computer program product is provided for establishing real-time communications between computer users connected by a communications network. An invitation is created by a first computer. An invitation is data that proposes a communication session. An invitation can indicate the status or availability of the sending user or of some other resource. Creation of the invitation is followed by the transfer of the invitation from the first computer to at least one second computer. The invitation can be transferred electronically through the network, or physically, by the transfer of a magnetic medium bearing the invitation. The invitation contains parameters to configure an invitation communicator application for communications between the first and second computers. The second computer accepts the invitation and invokes an invitation communicator application to allow communication. |
| US08671142B2 |
Systems and methods of virtual worlds access
Systems and methods of virtual world interaction, operation, implementation, instantiation, creation, and other functions related to virtual worlds (note that where the term “virtual world” is used herein, it is to be understood as referring to virtual world systems, virtual environments reflecting real, simulated, fantasy, or other structures, and includes information systems that utilize interaction within a 3D environment). Various embodiments facilitate interoperation between and within virtual worlds, and may provide consistent structures for operating virtual worlds. The disclosed embodiments may further enable individuals to build new virtual worlds within a framework, and allow third party users to better interact with those worlds. |
| US08671141B2 |
Social networking feed delivery system and method
Disclosed herein are a system, method and architecture for optimizing a manner in which queries and updates are issued to data stores servicing an application such as a social networking application. A social graph modeling a social network may be used to generate a data store request schedule that optimizes, e.g., minimizes, data store accesses, such as without limitation queries and updates to the data store. |
| US08671137B2 |
Personalized access using near field communication
Methods and systems for personalizing access to client devices using near field communication is disclosed. In a transaction between a client and a server, the client may detect the presence of a computing device using near field communication, and the device may be identified as an assistive computing device. Based on this information, the client may send the assistive computing device user interface data such that the transaction can be completed on the assistive computing device instead of the client. |
| US08671136B2 |
Sensor network system and data retrieval method for sensing data
A data retrieval method for sensing data for retrieving, from user terminals, data transmitted from a plurality of sensor nodes, the data retrieval method including: a step for storing in distributed servers the data sent from the plurality of sensor nodes, a step for setting information link pointers for indicating model names previously set and link pointers of data corresponding to the model names, a step for a management server connected through a network with the distributed servers and the user terminal to accept the reference requests for data acquired from the user terminals, and a step for the management server to acquire data from the distributed servers set as the information link pointers based on the data reference request from among the data stored in the distributed servers and to respond to the user terminal. |
| US08671135B1 |
Flexible mechanism for implementing the middleware of a data distribution system over multiple transport networks
A method of providing transports for a data distribution middleware over a plurality of transport networks is provided. A data distribution middleware with a pluggable transport layer is provided. A plurality of transport plugins in the transport layer are provided. Aliases are assigned to each of the transport plugins of the plurality of transport plugins, wherein at least one of the transport plugins of the plurality of transport plugins has a plurality of aliases. |
| US08671134B2 |
Method and system for data distribution in high performance computing cluster
Specified data is distributed in a High-Performance Computing cluster comprising a Management node and M computation nodes where M is an integer greater than one, by the method comprising: dividing the M computation nodes into m layers where m is an integer greater than one; dividing the specified data into k shares where k is an integer greater than one; distributing, by the Management node, the k shares of data to a first layer of computation nodes as sub-nodes thereof, each node of the first layer obtaining at least one share of data therein; distributing, by each of the computation nodes, the share(s) of data distributed by a parent node thereof to sub-nodes thereof; and requesting, by each of the computation nodes, the remaining specified data to other computation nodes, to thereby obtain all the specified data. |
| US08671129B2 |
System and method of bypassing unrounded results in a multiply-add pipeline unit
A processing unit, system, and method for performing a multiply operation in a multiply-add pipeline. To reduce the pipeline latency, the unrounded result of a multiply-add operation is bypassed to the inputs of the multiply-add pipeline for use in a subsequent operation. If it is determined that rounding is required for the prior operation, then the rounding will occur during the subsequent operation. During the subsequent operation, a Booth encoder not utilized by the multiply operation will output a rounding correction factor as a selection input to a Booth multiplexer not utilized by the multiply operation. When the Booth multiplexer receives the rounding correction factor, the Booth multiplexer will output a rounding correction value to a carry save adder (CSA) tree, and the CSA tree will generate the correct sum from the rounding correction value and the other partial products. |
| US08671120B1 |
Method and system for manually maintaining item authority
An item authority system is provided. The item authority system uses rules to identify item definitions that match or potentially match an item description. When a unique match is found, then the item authority system may indicate that the item description describes the same item as the item definition. If multiple matches or only potential matches are identified, then the item authority system may allow a user to manually indicate which item definition matches. |
| US08671113B2 |
Internet delivery system
An Internet delivery method delivers electronic information products to a plurality of users via the Internet. A plurality of display formats are stored in a database. The display formats including at least a default display format and a custom display format. Information is also stored for each user indicating whether the user is a specific type of user. When a user logs in, the user is identified as being that specific type of user. If the user is identified as the specific type of user, then an electronic information product is delivered to the user in the custom display format. The electronic information products are accessed via computers connected to the Internet, including wireless devices. |
| US08671111B2 |
Determination of rules by providing data records in columnar data structures
A method includes providing a columnar database comprising a plurality of columnar data structures associated with one column attribute; providing first data records having a plurality of first attribute-value pairs comprising counting information indicative of a number of first data records having the respective first attribute-value pair; providing mask data structures comprising one or more second attribute-value pairs; selecting second data records by intersecting the columnar data structures and the mask data structures; selecting one of the column attributes and one value contained in the column data structure associated with said selected column attribute as the destination attribute-value pair; creating one second rule for each first attribute-value pair; calculating, for each second rule, a co-occurrence-count between its respective source attribute-value pair and its destination attribute-value pair; and specifically selecting one or more of said second rules as the first rules in dependence on the calculated co-occurrence-count. |
| US08671101B2 |
System for requirement identification and analysis based on capability model structure
A textual analysis system is configured to compare textual content of textual statements. The textual analysis system is configured to score the textual content of a first textual statement and a second textual statement. Based on the score, the textual analysis system may determine a level of correspondence between the first textual statement and the second textual statement. The textual analysis system is configured to generate an interactive visual representation of the correspondence levels between the first statement and the second statement. The visual representation may be transmitted to a display. |
| US08671099B2 |
Clustering devices in an internet of things (‘IoT’)
Clustering devices in an Internet of Things (‘IoT’), including: receiving, by a device clustering module, a characteristic set for a device, wherein the characteristic set specifies one or more device attributes and an attribute value for each device attribute; clustering, by the device clustering module, the device into an attribute level cluster based on the one or more device attributes specified in the characteristic set for the device; and clustering, by the device clustering module, the device into a value level cluster based on the attribute value for each device attribute, wherein the value level cluster is a subset of the attribute level cluster. |
| US08671098B2 |
Automatic generation of digital composite product reviews
Consumers receive module-computed composite reviews that are lively, informative, coherent, and representative of a larger underlying collection of reviews. Representative phrases from reviews are extracted and aggregated into coherent sentences to create the composite review. Clear automatable criteria are provided to define coherence and other qualities, such as representativeness, liveliness, and informativity. Sentence coherence criteria involve syntax, shared vocabulary, phrase connectors, and phrase sentiment polarity, for instance. Phrase representativeness criteria involve review ratings and derived phrase ratings, for instance. Phrase liveliness criteria involve sentiment expression frequency, superlatives, comparatives, degree modifiers, affect activation scores, and affect imagery scores, for instance. Phrase informativity criteria involve product-specific words, review length, and recency, for instance. Prohibited language is filtered out. Composite reviews are automatically distributed, e.g., in response to a web search on the reviewed product. Reviews can be generated with a repeatability and rapidity not attainable by human performance alone. |
| US08671092B2 |
Apparatus, method and computer-readable storage medium for retrieving data from a data source
An apparatus is provided that includes a processor and memory storing executable instructions that in response to execution by the processor cause the apparatus to at least perform a number of operations. The apparatus is caused to receive a rowset of data from a data source, where the rowset includes one or more rows of values from the data source. The apparatus is caused to convert the rowset to markup data, and organize the markup data in preparation for its transformation to an output according to a markup transformation language. The markup data includes, for each row of the rowset, a row markup element; and the organized markup data includes an organization of the row elements into a plurality of logical groups. Even further, the organized markup data may be split into a plurality of smaller markup data sets, which may facilitate transformation of the markup data. |
| US08671091B2 |
Optimizing snowflake schema queries
For a database query that defines a plurality of separate snowflake schemas, a query optimizer computes separately for each of the snowflake schemas a logical access plan for obtaining from that schema's tables a respective record set that includes the data requested from those tables by that query. The query optimizer also computes a logical access plan for obtaining the query's results from the record sets in which execution of the logical access plans thus computed will result. |
| US08671089B2 |
Correlating web page visits and conversions with external references
One embodiment includes a method for correlating external references to a Web Page with conversions performed by one or more visitors to the Web Page. The method includes receiving the Web Page to monitor and determining one or more conversions to correlate. The one or more conversions to correlate include one or more actions performed on the Web Page by a visitor to the Web Page. The method also includes identifying the visitor to the Web Page. The visitor to the Web Page completed at least one action included in the conversions to correlate. The method also includes identifying the at least one action completed by the visitor and identifying an external reference that directed the visitor to the Web Page. The external reference contains a reference to the Web Page. |
| US08671086B2 |
Prefetching content of a directory by executing a directory access command
In response to a request to access a directory, a directory access command is invoked and executed, where the executed directory access command accesses the directory and prefetches content of the directory. |
| US08671082B1 |
Use of predefined block pointers to reduce duplicate storage of certain data in a storage subsystem of a storage server
A method and system for eliminating the redundant allocation and deallocation of special data on disk, wherein the redundant allocation and deallocation of special data on disk is eliminated by providing an innovate technique for specially allocating special data of a storage system. Specially allocated data is data that is pre-allocated on disk and stored in memory of the storage system. “Special data” may include any pre-decided data, one or more portions of data that exceed a pre-defined sharing threshold, and/or one or more portions of data that have been identified by a user as special. For example, in some embodiments, a zero-filled data block is specially allocated by a storage system. As another example, in some embodiments, a data block whose contents correspond to a particular type document header is specially allocated. |
| US08671080B1 |
System and method for managing data loss due to policy violations in temporary files
A method and apparatus for managing data loss due to policy violations in temporary files is described. In one embodiment, the method includes monitoring, by a client agent, information content on a client for violations of a policy. The method further includes determining, by the client agent, that a violation of the policy has occurred for content of a temporary file of an application. In one embodiment, the policy violation of the temporary file is correlated, by the client agent, with an original file of the application. |
| US08671078B2 |
Sharing parts of a document using search framework
Embodiments are configured to provide sharing of business logic items. A document may contain business logic items, for example, sets, members, or measures. Some business logic items may be created by a publisher who wants to make the business logic available to other users so that others can access the business logic. Embodiments provide for using an integrated server platform search component to automatically retrieve business logic items which exist in one or more documents stored in a document library. This may allow for a publisher to provide business logic to other users without having to rely on the other users to retrieve the business logic from a specific document, and without requiring the other users to know of the existence of the business logic. Restrictions may be placed so that a publisher can control what specific pieces of business logic may be made available. |
| US08671070B1 |
Systems and methods for extracting financial information from content
In one example, when a user reads content on a web browser, the content may contain information about companies, and may suggest, to the user, various financial transactions to be performed with respect to those companies. For example, the user may want to react to financial news about a company by buying or selling stock in the company. A software component (e.g., a browser plug-in) may be used to evaluate content that the user is reading, and to display a user interface that allows the user to perform financial transactions based on the content. For example, if the user reads a news article about a company, the software component may display an interface that shows the ticker symbol of the company's stock and allows the user to initiate a transaction to buy or sell that stock. |
| US08671069B2 |
Rapid image annotation via brain state decoding and visual pattern mining
Human visual perception is able to recognize a wide range of targets but has limited throughput. Machine vision can process images at a high speed but suffers from inadequate recognition accuracy of general target classes. Systems and methods are provided that combine the strengths of both systems and improve upon existing multimedia processing systems and methods to provide enhanced multimedia labeling, categorization, searching, and navigation. |
| US08671067B2 |
Method and system for event pattern detection
Data relating to energy management may be collected and stored from one or more sites. This data may be analyzed by a series of rules, and each rule may look for certain patterns in the data over time. Each time a pattern is detected in the data, the rule may create and store an event back into the database. Each event may represent the detection of a specific condition that starts at a specific time and continues for a specific duration. Each rule may also dynamically assign and update a score to each event that indicates its level of importance and persistence. Once the raw data has been analyzed and events have been created that represent basic conditions, a new set of rules may analyze the events themselves, in addition to, or rather than, the raw data. Successive passes of rules can thus detect higher level, broader problems. |
| US08671063B2 |
Systems and methods for remote vehicle rental with remote vehicle access
An automated vehicle rental system with individual vehicle transmitting sensors for keeping track of vehicle mileage, fill state of vehicle fuel tank, and localized position status in a rental lot. Sensors are linked to the vehicle odometer reading and to the vehicle fuel tank float sensor with compensation for types of driving and fuel fill-ups which affect float level readings. The sensors are integrated with or are linked with communicating tags operable in a defined site for ultimate communication of stored vehicle related sensor data, vehicle location and type to a central data base for automatically completely effecting check out, charges and state of vehicle readiness for renewed rental. The transmitting sensors are adapted to avoid interference between sensors of other vehicles during multiple transmissions. Also included is an in-vehicle check out and payment device operatively linkable to the transmitting sensor of the vehicle. |
| US08671062B2 |
Methods and systems for making, tracking and authentication of products
Manufactured goods are marked or labeled with a secure unique identifier. A central checking center allows users to verify the authenticity of a particular good such as a cigarette pack or carton via any convenient interface such as the internet or a cell phone. A system of secret sharing allows secure authentication of each item and prevents code breaking or misuse. |
| US08671056B1 |
Social sourced purchasing advice system
Facilitating the solicitation of expert advice from trusted reviewers using a system that maintains a registry of product reviewers with areas of expertise. The system can identify reviewers that have an area of expertise relating to a consumer's purchase advice request (PAR) and are directly or indirectly connected to the consumer's social network. The system can calculate the trust level of the reviewers based on the relevance of each reviewer's area of expertise to the PAR and the degree of social separation between each reviewer and the consumer. The system provides the consumer with a ranked list of reviewers to answer the PAR and can forward the PAR to the reviewer selected by the consumer. In addition, the system can also complete the purchase of product/service recommended by the reviewer pursuant to the PAR on behalf of the consumer. |
| US08671055B2 |
Portable E-wallet and universal card
Universal cards are used in place of all the other traditional cards which a person may want to carry. The universal card can include a short range communications transceiver to communicate with a mobile device. The mobile device can include a user interface and an e-wallet application so that the user can interface with the e-wallet application for programming the universal card via the short range communication link. Once programmed, the universal card emulates a function of a traditional card. |
| US08671053B2 |
Direct currency conversion
This invention concerns direct currency conversion, that is automatic currency conversion at point of payment for card transactions. In particular it concerns a method for operating equipment associated with a financial transaction. The method includes the steps of: Presenting a card related to a customer's account. Recording a card number from the card. Applying all or part of the card number to a tree structure, and automatically processing that number by the tree one bit at a time to arrive at an end node of the tree coded with information related to the currency of the customer's card account. Determining the currency of the customer's card account. Comparing the currency of the customer's card account with one or more currencies predetermined for the equipment. Where the comparison indicates different currencies, providing direct currency conversion services. In other aspects it concerns the equipment itself, and a method of preparing a tree structure for use by the equipment. |
| US08671050B1 |
Systems and methods for funding and binding auto loans
A way to facilitate the use of funds from an automobile loan is provided. The vehicle identification number of the automobile the loan applicant wishes to purchase is used to activate the funds of the loan for use. The applicant may receive a loan card to be used in the transaction that may be initially inactive, i.e. unable to be used for a transaction, until the vehicle identification number is received by the financial institution that accepted the loan application. An applicant of the loan may also be provided information relating to an account established for the disbursement of the loan proceeds. The account may be initially inactive until the vehicle identification number of the automobile is received and the applicant may also receive additional information required to be transmitted to the financial institution in order to use the funds, including, without limitation, a security code. |
| US08671049B1 |
Financial system and method based on absolute returns
A financial instrument exchange, system and method based upon the intensity of an underlying index. The instrument having a predetermined formula for a settlement price based at least in part on the formula: AR = [ 1 N ∑ j = 1 N r j ] × C where: N=a number of total observation periods; C=a constant multiplier; and rj=a capped absolute period return calculated using the formula: rj=min(d,|xj|); where: d=a contract period observation cap; and xj=a period return based on a formula of the group consisting of: x j = ln ( I j I j - 1 ) ; and x j = ( I j I j - 1 ) - 1 ; where: Ij=a reference index reported price/level j observation periods after an initial observation date/time. The periods can variable and measured in days, weeks, months, quarters and years. The instrument is traded at a market-determined price from creation through the date of expiration. |
| US08671042B2 |
Method and system for developing and applying market data scenarios
A method for developing and applying market data scenarios in which market data is received from a market data distribution platform, stored, changed with respect to a specific asset included in the market data, and the altered market data transmitted to a client application that processes the altered market data as if it were transmitted directly from the platform. The system may include a recording module for receiving a stream of market data from the platform, an interface module for specifying changes to the replayed stream to form a stream of altered market data and a client application interface for transmitting a stream of altered market data to a client application. The stream of altered market data mimics the market data stream such that the stream of altered market data can be processed as if it were market data from the market data distribution platform. |
| US08671041B2 |
Managing consistent interfaces for credit portfolio business objects across heterogeneous systems
A business object model, which reflects data that is used during a given business transaction, is utilized to generate interfaces. This business object model facilitates commercial transactions by providing consistent interfaces that are suitable for use across industries, across businesses, and across different departments within a business during a business transaction. In some operations, software creates, updates, or otherwise processes information related to a credit portfolio model, a credit portfolio analytical result, a credit portfolio management process control, a financial instrument exposure profile analytical result, and/or a material supply and demand allocation business object. |
| US08671039B2 |
Information processing system, information processing method and computer readable medium
An information processing system includes a receiving unit, a risk control matrix storage unit and a dummy control setting unit. The receiving unit receives assumed risks and controls corresponding to the assumed risks. The risk control matrix storage unit stores a risk control matrix in which a correspondence relation between the risks and the controls is described. If evaluation of design effectiveness is performed to check a document regarding an operation to be controlled in an internal control of operations and if the dummy control setting unit determines that there is a risk having no control corresponding thereto in the risk control matrix stored in the risk control matrix storage unit, the dummy control setting unit sets a dummy control for the risk having no corresponding control in the risk control matrix and stores the risk control matrix. |
| US08671036B2 |
User interface for defining account dimension combinations
A user interface is provided enabling users to build and modify account structures with various account-dimension combinations and rules for those combinations. The user interface provides context for the account structure and controls for creation and modification of the account configurations. |
| US08671035B2 |
Providing payroll software application as enterprise services
Methods and apparatus, including systems and computer program products, for a service architecture design that provides enterprise services having payroll functionality at the level of an enterprise application. The design includes a set of service operations, process components, and optionally deployment units. Suitable business objects are also described. |
| US08671034B2 |
Providing human capital management software application as enterprise services
Methods and apparatus, including systems and computer program products, for a service architecture design that provides enterprise services having human capital management functionality at the level of an enterprise application. The design includes a set of service operations, process components, and optionally deployment units. Suitable business objects are also described. |
| US08671032B2 |
Providing payment software application as enterprise services
Methods and apparatus, including systems and computer program products, for a service architecture design that provides enterprise services having payment functionality at the level of an enterprise application. The design includes a set of service operations, process components, and optionally deployment units. Suitable business objects are also described. |
| US08671031B2 |
Inventory management system
A statistical inventory management system may optimize inventory investment using historical usage and/or consumption of an inventory component by determining one or more target inventory levels (e.g., replenishment levels). Historical usage data may be summed for a plurality of at least partially non-overlapping time periods that may be each equal in duration to a supplier lead-time period for the component to create lead-time usage data. The lead-time usage data may be utilized to more accurately determine future inventory levels (e.g., target inventory levels) because the lead-time usage data may have a reduced variance compared to, for example, day-to-day usage. The inventory management system may be employable by a computing system having a display module (e.g., GUI) that allows a user to receive at least one graphical representation indicative of at least one target inventory level of at least one inventory component (e.g., by selectively interacting with the display module). |
| US08671026B2 |
Method of facilitating value-based bartering over the internet
A method, apparatus, and system of facilitating value-based bartering over the internet are disclosed. In one embodiment, a system of e-commerce includes a computer network, a server to host a market place website, a listing module to enable an entity to assign a specified value to a good and to list the good for trade on the market place website such that the listing of the good will expire after being posted for a specified period of time, a trade module to enable an entity to trade the good for an other good of an other entity on the market place website, a search module to enable the entity to search a list of goods on the market place website. |
| US08671021B2 |
Consumption profile for mobile media
In embodiments, the present invention provides a method and system for delivery of content on a mobile media platform, providing a consumption profile, and delivering content to a mobile device, wherein content delivery is based at least in part on the consumption profile. Further, in embodiments, the present invention provides a consumption profile for a mobile media platform comprising a device profile, a user profile, a network profile, an encoding profile, and a content profile. |
| US08671020B1 |
Call tracking system utilizing a pooling algorithm
A call tracking system and method that uses a pooling algorithm to manage a pool of telephone numbers that are utilized in advertisements. The pooling algorithm allows adjustments to be made to the pool in order to achieve a desired degree of call tracking accuracy performed by the system. The pooling algorithm may adjust the pool in terms of size, quality, or other metric, and assign phone numbers so as to meet the desired accuracy requirements. While additional numbers in a pool may increase accuracy, fewer numbers result in lower cost, and a balance may be struck based on the requirements of an advertiser. When a phone number is to be provided for an advertising campaign, the phone number may be selected from the pool randomly, in round-robin fashion, or according to criteria related to expected accuracy. |
| US08671018B2 |
Adaptable retail pricing environment and electronic exchange, delivering customized buyer promotion rewards and discounts
An individualized discount and reward server includes one or more linked databases to store customer data associated with a loyalty program of a retailer. The server includes a processor configured to select a retail product from a plurality of retail products associated with the retailer. The processor determines a first percentage indicating a percentage of time the loyalty customer purchases the selected retail product on promotion, and determines a second percentage indicating an average percentage of time a plurality of customers forming a peer group purchases the selected retail product on promotion. Further, the processor determines a comparison result by comparing the first and second percentages. Additionally, the processor allocates at least one customized offer to the retailer account associated with the loyalty customer according to at least the comparison result. |
| US08671017B2 |
Integrated system and method for centralized transit information handling
A centralized information center is disclosed. The centralized information center includes a plurality of source information inputs. The centralized information center disclosed also includes a central processor configured to receive information from the source information inputs and a memory coupled to the processor. A program runs on the central processor. The program organizes information, prioritizes information and generates information flows. Selective information flows are provided to a central office for a transportation system and to a transportation vehicle. The plurality of source information inputs includes vehicle-related information, operations-related information, and external service provider information. |
| US08671008B2 |
Method for notifying task providers to become active using instant messaging
A method and system for correlating a work request to a provider based on content of the work request and delegating the work request to the provider using an instant message (IM) service. An instant message service including those offered by existing IM service providers is used to notify a provider that a request has been received requesting work to be performed. The instant message may include a link to details of the work being requested, establish an electronic mail communication, point to a web site or initiate an application that communicates with web-enabled services on a server connected to the Internet. |
| US08671006B2 |
System and method for managing and predicting crop performance
The invention provides a method of managing fertilizer and irrigation inputs for a crop, the method comprising obtaining management data for the crop, the management data including a planting date for the crop; obtaining weather data representative of the geographic area of the crop; obtaining soil description data representative of the geographic area of the crop; calculating an emergence date at least partly from the planting date; calculating a plurality of nitrogen deficit values at least partly from the emergence date and the soil description data, the nitrogen deficit values associated with respective dates each later than the emergence date; calculating a plurality of water deficit values at least partly from the emergence date and the weather data, the water deficit values associated with respective dates each later than the emergence date; and presenting on a display a schedule of recommended nitrogen application values, irrigation values and application dates, the schedule calculated at least partly from the nitrogen deficit values and the water deficit values. |
| US08670997B2 |
Quality metric extraction and editing for medical data
Medical related quality of care information is extracted and edited for reporting. Patient records are mined. The mining may include mining unstructured data to create structured information. Measures are derived automatically from the structured information. A user may then edit the measures, data points used to derive the measures, or other quality metric based on expert review. The editing may allow for a better quality report. Tools may be provided to configure reports, allowing generation of new or different reports. |
| US08670996B1 |
Health care incentive apparatus and method
An embodiment of the invention provides, among other things, a method for providing a cost modification of a health care item for a subject. In an example method, a request is received for a health care item from a point of purchase of the health care item. Cost adjustment data is received from at least one source. The cost adjustment data is used to determine a cost modification for the health care item. The cost modification is communicated to a point of purchase of the health care item. |
| US08670992B2 |
Clinical protocol document production
A clinical protocol document is produced by generating a clinical protocol document having a chart section and a text section. The chart section displays drug dosage information and medical assessment activity information in a time-activity chart format. The text section describes the drug dosage information and medical assessment activity information in a text format. Medical drug dosage information and medical assessment activity information are received via a chart user interface and the received information is automatically converted to text format for the text section of the document. |
| US08670991B2 |
Authenticating prescriber identity to enable electronically ordering drug samples from a drug sample fulfillment platform
A fully online process to facilitate the fulfillment of drug samples to prescribers is described. With the present invention, a prescriber may order physical drug samples online by undergoing an authentication process that is in lieu of requiring a signature match. In the invention, the ordering of drug samples is made over a communication network without requiring a handwritten signature. |
| US08670989B2 |
Appartus and method for coding and decoding multi-object audio signal with various channel
Provided are an apparatus and method for coding and decoding a multi-object audio signal. The apparatus includes a down-mixer for down-mixing the audio signals into one down-mixed audio signal and extracting supplementary information including header information and spatial cue information for each of the audio signals, a coder for coding the down-mixed audio signal, and a supplementary information coder for generating the supplementary information as a bit stream. The header information includes identification information for each of the audio signals and channel information for the audio signals. |
| US08670986B2 |
Method and apparatus for masking speech in a private environment
A speech masking apparatus includes a microphone and a speaker. The microphone can detect a human voice. The speaker can output a masking language which can include phonemes resembling human speech. At least one component of the masking language can have a pitch, a volume, a theme, and/or a phonetic content substantially matching a pitch, a volume, a theme, and/or a phonetic content of the voice. |
| US08670984B2 |
Automatically generating audible representations of data content based on user preferences
A custom-content audible representation of selected data content is automatically created for a user. The content is based on content preferences of the user (e.g., one or more web browsing histories). The content is aggregated, converted using text-to-speech technology, and adapted to fit in a desired length selected for the personalized audible representation. The length of the audible representation may be custom for the user, and may be determined based on the amount of time the user is typically traveling. |
| US08670980B2 |
Tone determination device and method
A tone determination device, which determines the tonality of an input signal, is capable of reducing calculation complexity. Therein a frequency conversion unit (101) converts the frequency of an input signal; a downsampling unit (102) carries out shortening processing which shortens the vector series length of the frequency-converted signal; a constancy determination unit (107) determines the constancy of the input signal; depending on the constancy of the input signal, a vector selection unit (104) selects either the vector series of the post-frequency conversion signal or the vector series after the shortening of the vector series length; a correlation analysis unit (105) uses the vector series selected by the vector selection unit (104) to obtain correlations; and a tone determination unit (106) uses the correlations to determine the tonality of the input signal. |
| US08670978B2 |
Topic transition analysis system, method, and program
The present invention provides a topic transition analysis system that determines a position on a primary media stream leading to a certain statement made in a language communication carried out in a secondary channel associated with the primary media stream. The topic transition analysis system includes a statement trigger string determination unit receiving a primary media stream and one or a plurality of language communication streams (hereinafter, language streams) executed in parallel with the media stream and determining whether or not a certain statement on the one or plurality of language streams has been made newly in response to contents of the media stream. |
| US08670976B2 |
System and methods for encoding and decoding multi-lingual text in a matrix code symbol
A method for encoding a multi-lingual text in a matrix code symbol includes receiving a multi-lingual text comprising Latin-based characters in a Latin-based language and non-Latin-based characters in a non-Latin-based language, converting the non-Latin-based characters in the multi-lingual text to index values to produce a pseudo text, and encoding the pseudo text in a matrix-code symbol. The conversion is based on a predefined mapping that converts the Unicode values of the non-Latin-based characters to index values having fewer digits than the corresponding Unicode values of the non-Latin-based characters. |
| US08670970B2 |
Characterizing performance of an electronic system
In one embodiment of the present invention, the performance of an electronic circuit having a clock path between a clock source cell and a clock leaf cell is characterized over a simulation duration, where the clock path has one or more intermediate cells. Variations in the effective power supply voltage level of at least one intermediate cell over the simulation duration are determined using a system-level power-grid simulation tool. Static timing analysis (STA) software is used to determine cell delays for at least one of the intermediate cells for different clock-signal transitions at different times during the simulation duration. The cell delays are then used to generate one or more metrics characterizing the performance of the electronic circuit, such as maximum and minimum pulse widths, maximum cycle-to-cycle jitter, and maximum periodic jitter. |
| US08670962B2 |
Process simulation utilizing component-specific consumption data
Methods and apparatuses are provided for simulating components and processes using discrete, variable-granularity, component-specific data relating to energy consumption or other sustainability factors. Simulations can be analyzed and optimized to facilitate forecasting of sustainability factors and determine advantageous modifications to the components or processes. |
| US08670954B2 |
Train load measuring system and method thereof
Disclosed is a train load measuring system and a method thereof. The train load measuring system includes a speed/acceleration measuring unit, a position measuring unit, a railway-line state receiving unit, a driving/braking force receiving unit and a calculate unit. The speed/acceleration measuring unit measures a speed and acceleration of the train. The position measuring unit measures a current position of the train. The railway-line state receiving unit receives a railway-line state. The driving/braking force receiving unit receives driving and braking forces of the train. The calculating unit calculates a train load based on information transferred from the units. |
| US08670950B2 |
False echo storage in case of container noise
The invention relates to false echo storage in the area of level measurement. The decision as to whether or not to initialize and/or update the false echo memory is made using at least one value for the sensor-inherent noise, container noise and/or EMC noise for this purpose. This may make it possible to avoid identifying a false echo as the level echo. |
| US08670938B2 |
Methods and apparatus for accurate service life prediction
Methods and apparatus for accurate service life prediction by exposing a test specimen to operating parameters of a multi-variable micro-environment cycle in an accelerated weathering test apparatus including an irradiance source, a temperature adjustment source and a moisture adjustment source connected to a controller to: expose the test specimen to the operating parameters of the multi-variable micro-environment cycle recreated in the test chamber; monitor the exposure of the test specimen to the multi-variable micro-environment cycle to generate run-time variables; and adjust the run-time variables to reconcile to the operating parameters. |
| US08670937B2 |
Path searching method and path search device
A computer performs a path search from a departure point to a destination point and a path search from the destination point to the departure point while changing a target from a road type at a level other than the highest level to a road type at a higher level, according to a first grouping of a plurality of road types, and performs a path search for the road type at the highest level in a first process. Next, the computer performs similar path searches in an area to be searched based on a result of the first process, according to a second grouping in which a greater number of road types is classified as the highest level in a second process. Then, the computer generates path information according to a result of the second process. |
| US08670935B2 |
Tagging a location by pairing devices
A method of tagging a location using a mobile device entails obtaining position data for a current location of the mobile device, detecting a proximity of another device using a short-range wireless interface, and automatically storing the position data for the current location of the mobile device in response to the detecting of the proximity of the other device. The proximity detector may comprise a near field communication (NFC) interface, a Bluetooth® transceiver or another short-range wireless technology that may be employed to detect the proximity of another device. This technology enables two devices to store a current location to facilitate a subsequent rendezvous back at that same location. |
| US08670932B2 |
Correlation position determination
Methods and apparatus for navigating with the use of correlation within a select area are provided. One method includes, storing data required to reconstruct ranges and associated angles to objects along with statistical accuracy information while initially traversing throughout the select area. Measuring then current ranges and associated angles to the objects during a subsequent traversal throughout the select area. Correlating the then current ranges and associated angles to the objects to reconstructed ranges and associated angles to the objects from the stored data. Determining at least one of then current location and heading estimates within the select area based at least in part on the correlation and using the least one of the then current location and heading estimates for navigation. |
| US08670931B2 |
Methods and systems for visual addressing
Certain exemplary embodiments of the present invention provide a method of guiding a traveler, comprising the activities of: obtaining a route from a first approach to a destination; selecting a sequential set of way points along said route, said sequential set of way points chosen to assist a traveler in following said route; capturing a visual image of each way point from said sequential set of way points to form a set of visual images; arranging said set of visual images into a static viewable sequential order; and in response to a user's selection of said first approach from a predetermined set of approaches to said destination, providing said set of visual images to said user. |
| US08670927B2 |
Positioning method, program, positioning device, and electronic apparatus
A positioning method in a positioning device includes: measuring a current position by receiving positioning signals transmitted from a plurality of positioning satellites and performing first positioning processing using a least square method; determining whether or not a result of the first positioning processing satisfies a positioning change condition set beforehand as a condition for change of positioning processing; and measuring the current position by receiving the positioning signals transmitted from the plurality of positioning satellites and performing second positioning processing using a Kalman filter after stopping the first positioning processing when it is determined that the result of the first positioning processing satisfies the positioning change condition. |
| US08670924B2 |
Creation of GIS tools and spatial database for limited access highway entrance points in the US and Canada
A navigation assistance system and method determines limited access highway entrance points as destinations in a geographic information system. In one aspect, the limited access highway entrance points are stored as destinations in a geographic database within the geographic information system such that a telematics service provider can provide directions to the limited access highway entrance points. |
| US08670922B2 |
Guiding route generation device and guiding route generation method
When a user specifies a road that he/she wants to pass through, a guiding route generation device generates a guiding route that passes through the specified road up to a destination. A guiding route (37) generated based on waypoints specified is stored in a storage device (15) of the guiding route generation device. A display device (11) displays the guiding route (37) along with roads in the periphery. The guiding route generation device specifies a certain road as the specified pass-through road from among the roads displayed along with the guiding route (37), and further, finds and determines whether there are crossings and the number of the crossings between the specified pass-through road and the guiding route (37). |
| US08670921B2 |
Onboard assistance device for aiding the following of an airport route by an aircraft
A device for aiding the following of an airport route by an aircraft includes: an onboard system of optical sensors; means providing the current position of the aircraft; a database having topological information for the airport; a recognition system providing, on the basis of the video images arising from the system of optical sensors, data characteristics of the airport route portion, making it possible to identify a simple primitive representative of the route portion followed; and a processing computer. The processing computer extracts, from the database, a succession of simple geometric shapes representing the airport route and of the same nature as the primitives arising from the recognition system, compares the succession of shapes with the primitives, and validates or invalidates the route followed by the aircraft as a function of the result of the comparison. |
| US08670916B2 |
Fuel injection system for internal combustion engine
A fuel injection system for an internal combustion engine is provided which works to correct the pressure of fuel, as measured by a pressure sensor, using a pressure change corresponding to a change in quantity of the fuel in a common rail within a pressure change compensating time Tp to determine a pump discharge pressure Ptop. This compensates for an error in determining the pump discharge pressure Ptop which arises from propagation of the pressure of fuel from a pump to the pressure sensor. The pressure change compensating time Tp is the sum of a time T1 elapsed between sampling the output of the pressure sensor before a calculation start time when the pump discharge pressure is to start to be calculated and the calculation start time and a time T2 required for the pressure to transmit from the outlet of the pump to the pressure sensor. |
| US08670915B2 |
Vehicle driving assist system
A vehicle driving assist system is provided that calculates a risk potential indicative of a degree of convergence between the host vehicle and the preceding obstacle. A first driving assistance control system controls at least one of an actuation reaction force exerted by a driver-operated driving operation device and a braking/driving force exerted against the host vehicle based on the risk potential calculated. A second driving assistance control system controls the braking/driving force of the host vehicle such that a headway distance is maintained between the host vehicle and the obstacle. A transition detecting section detects a transition of operating states of the first and second driving assistance control systems. The control adjusting section adjusts the control executed by the first and second driving assistance control systems when a transition of operating state is detected. |
| US08670910B2 |
Method for controlling a speed difference between the front wheels and rear wheels of a four-wheel drive vehicle
A method for controlling a speed difference between speed of wheels of a front axle and speed of wheels of a rear axle of a four-wheel drive vehicle. The method: determines an initial speed difference set point based on the speed of the vehicle; determines one or more intermediate speed difference set points based on one or more operational parameters of the vehicle; modulates the initial speed difference set point based on the intermediate speed difference set points to obtain a final speed difference set point; measures the speed difference and compares the measured speed difference with the final speed difference set point; and controls the measured speed difference, so that the measured speed difference reaches the final speed difference set point. |
| US08670909B2 |
Automotive vehicle
An automotive vehicle may include one or more controllers, a braking system and an electric machine. The one or more controllers may be configured to determine whether the vehicle is about to roll over. The braking system may be configured to apply a braking torque for a time period, under the command of the one or more controllers, to a front traction wheel to cause the front traction wheel to skid or slide relative to a road if the vehicle is about to roll over. The electric machine may be configured to generate a propulsion torque, under the command of the one or more controllers, during the time period. |
| US08670908B2 |
Automatic transmission
An automatic transmission including an input shaft connected to a drive source; an output shaft connected to a driving wheel; a one-way clutch; friction engagement elements which establish speeds by changing a transmission path between the input shaft and the output shaft based on the application state of the friction engagement elements and application of the one-way clutch, one of the friction engagement elements being a brake that is applied when coasting in a take-off speed. The automatic transmission also includes a controller that determines whether it is possible to initially establish the take-off speed using the one-way clutch based on a predetermined condition, and, if not possible, then the controller establishes the take-off speed by applying the brake. |
| US08670904B2 |
Motor control device and electric steering system
A motor control device includes: a rotation angle detection portion that detects a rotation angle of a motor and outputs a rotation angle signal; an abnormal condition detection portion that detects the presence or absence of an abnormal condition of the rotation angle detection portion; a rotation angle estimation portion that estimates the rotation angle of the motor and outputs an estimate rotation angle signal; and a driving control portion that controls driving of the motor on the basis of the rotation angle signal, which is output from the rotation angle detection portion, when the abnormal condition detection portion does not detect an abnormal condition of the rotation angle detection portion, and controls driving of the motor on the basis of the estimate rotation angle signal, which is output from the rotation angle estimation portion, when the abnormal condition detection portion detects an abnormal condition of the rotation angle detection portion. |
| US08670901B2 |
Brake and steer-by-braking (SFB) pedal arrangement for tractors
A brake and steer-by-braking pedal arrangement for tractors includes a right pedal and a left pedal operating synchronously or diachronically; and at least one hydraulic or pneumatic circuit connected to one master cylinder activated by at least one of the pedals. The pedal arrangement also has potentiometers connected electronically to an electronic central control unit and the potentiometers determine the distance between the pedals The electronic central control unit determines, on the basis of data received from the potentiometers, whether or not to activate the steer-by-braking function. |
| US08670893B2 |
Framework for supporting repair processes of aircraft
A framework for supporting one or more repair processes of one or more aircraft. The repair processes are based on repair information or repair solution corresponding to the damages to one or more structural components of the aircraft. The framework includes a knowledge engine, and a deployment engine. The knowledge engine automatically generates one or more knowledge interpretation systems based on the user inputs. The knowledge interpretation systems provide the repair information corresponding to the various structural components of the aircraft based on the user inputs. The deployment engine fulfills the deployment requirements corresponding to the one or more knowledge interpretation systems. |
| US08670890B2 |
Method and system for timetable optimization utilizing energy consumption factors
Embodiments relate to systems and methods for synchronizing two or more railway assets to optimize energy consumption. For example, an embodiment of the present invention provides receipt of a timetable associated with two or more vehicles and at least one terminal. The timetable can be modified to create a modified timetable that overlaps a brake time for a first vehicle and an acceleration time for a second vehicle, wherein at least one of a departure time or a dwell time is modified. Furthermore, the second vehicle can transfer energy from the first vehicle based upon at least one of the modified timetable and the brake time overlapping with the acceleration time. |
| US08670884B2 |
Mobile device
In the case where a temperature allowance of one translational mechanism of a plurality of the translational mechanisms (the electric motors 31R, 31L) larger than a temperature allowance of the other translational mechanisms, the operation mode of a plurality of the translational mechanisms are controlled so that the heat generation amount of the one translational mechanism becomes larger than the heat generation amount of the other translational mechanisms. By doing so, the difference between the temperature allowances of a plurality of the translational mechanisms is reduced. |
| US08670882B2 |
Systems and methods for monitoring navigation state errors
Systems and methods for monitoring navigation state errors are provided. In this regard, a representative system, among others, includes a receiver that is configured to receive GPS signals and calculate pseudorange (PR) residuals, the receiver including a navigation state error manager that is configured to: calculate a distance traveled by the receiver having the PR residuals, determine whether a navigation state has errors based on the calculated PR residuals and calculated distance, and responsive to determining that the navigation state has errors, send an error message indicating that the navigation state has errors. |
| US08670881B2 |
Flight management system for generating variable thrust cutback during aircraft departure
A flight management system is provided for generating a variable thrust cutback during aircraft departure. The flight management system includes memory storing a sound exposure level limit for a navigation flight and storing expected sound exposure levels for an aircraft, and one or more inputs for receiving sensed aircraft variables including altitude and airspeed. The system also includes a processor for processing the sensed altitude and airspeed and stored sound exposure levels. The processor further computes an engine thrust value that complies with the sound exposure level limit based on the altitude, airspeed and the sound exposure levels for controlling aircraft throttle during departure. |
| US08670879B1 |
Automatically ejecting flight data recorder
An apparatus for holding a flight data recorder in an aircraft includes a housing that defines a compartment enclosing the flight data recorder and a flotation device encapsulating the flight data recorder. If the aircraft crashes into a body of water and become submerged, one or more releasable fasteners holding the compartment's cover in place are triggered thereby removing the cover over an opening in the compartment and ejecting the flotation device and the flight data recorder out of the compartment. The floatation device then floats the flight data recorder to the surface of the water where it can be located by the rescuers. |
| US08670876B2 |
Electric power control system and process
A method and apparatus for controlling electric power supplied to one or more electrical devices from a power source are disclosed. Measurements of the supplied electricity are detected. Estimated deviant voltage levels that the supplied electricity will not drop below or exceed as a result of varying electrical consumption by the one or more electrical devices is computed based on a predetermined confidence level and the detected measurements. A voltage level output of the electricity supplied to the electrical device is adjusted based on the computed deviant voltage level. |
| US08670875B2 |
PLC function block for automated demand response integration
Systems and methods are described that allow a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) to receive Demand Response (DR) data and process the data in a PLC Function Block (FB). Embodiments provide a PLC demand response FB that solicits DR data and a demand response load manager FB that compares the DR data with predetermined demand constraints corresponding to electrical equipment. The demand constraints provide energy consumption strategies for buildings and factories. |
| US08670874B2 |
Method and apparatus for energy and emission reduction
A method of performing energy estimations operations in an intensive energy consuming site or system environment, the method comprising the steps of: (a) inputting a series of energy, emission and influencing data variables related to the intensive energy consuming site or system environment; (b) performing a first energy use prediction operation utilising a first prediction technique; (c) performing a second (simultaneous) similar energy use prediction operation utilising a second prediction technique; (d) correlating the results of the two techniques and; (e) providing a pass or fail signal depending on the level of correlation between the two techniques. |
| US08670873B2 |
Lighting control system and method
Lighting devices are configured to communicate with one another and with external systems. Sensors located at such lighting devices communicate with the external systems and with others of the lighting devices. Lighting is controlled to maintain safety, to drive customer traffic within a retail facility, or to conserve energy. An application programming interface provides a common mechanism for control of various lighting device types. |
| US08670871B2 |
Load processing balance setting apparatus
A load processing balance setting apparatus includes first and second air-conditioners for targeted first and second areas, a calculating unit, a determining unit and an adjusting unit. The first area is included within the second area. The calculating unit calculates a sum of an air-conditioning load for the first and second air-conditioners. Preferably, the determining unit determines a first and second processing throughputs for the first and second air-conditioners so that a COP (Coefficient of Performance) for the sum of the air-conditioning loads calculated by the calculating unit is maximized or is equal to or greater than a predetermined level, or so that a power consumption level for the sum of the air-conditioning loads calculated by the calculating unit is minimized or is equal to or less than a predetermined level. The adjusting unit controls the first and second air-conditioners based on the first and second processing throughputs. |
| US08670867B2 |
Robot milking arm and a method of attaching milking cups
A robotic milking system suitable for use with conventional milking clusters. Clusters are withdrawn to a generally known position upon release from a cow with the cups hanging down below the bowl. The cups are then located in a confined region from where they are picked up by a robotic arm and attached to teats of a cow. The cups may be located into recesses or slots or be drawn through a guide. The arrangement allows a single robotic arm to service multiple bales of a rotary milking parlor. The application of a vacuum to milking cups may be controlled by applying sufficient pressure to the pulsation line of a cup to collapse the cup liner when that cup is not attached to a teat or by bending a feed line to a cup to close the flow path. |
| US08670860B2 |
Bag top registration apparatus
Bag top registration apparatus includes infeed mechanism that feeds bags, which may be of different lengths, from a magazine to positioner assemblies which have back lights and bag clamps that are operable for moving the bags, if necessary, to have their bag top edges over the back lights at registration positions and pick-up mechanism for transferring the bags at registration positions to a conveyor assembly with their top edges at the same elevation. Cameras take images of the bags on the positioner assemblies extending in part over the back lights. The programmable logic controller in comparing the images with the parameters imparted by a human machine interface controls the operation of the clamps to move the bags to the registration positions and the mechanism for removing the bags from the magazine, the clamps, the pick-up mechanism and the conveyor assembly. |
| US08670858B2 |
Tip-based computer controlled system for a hand-held dental delivery device
A tip-based computer controlled system for a dental delivery device is disclosed. The system automatically controls an operating characteristic such as power control or fluid flow based on tip identification and history. The operating characteristic may also be controlled in response to particular conditions throughout the dental procedure, such as (but not limited to) temperature, dental hygiene material, fluid type, etc. The system may provide an alert or shut off if unsafe conditions occur and/or error circumstances are detected. An operator interface is provided to configure the system and augment/override an executing control algorithm during a procedure. A method and a computer-readable storage medium are also disclosed. |
| US08670856B2 |
Algorithmic framework for the integrated optimization of hot strip mill and upstream molten metal operations for a large-scale steel manufacturing plant
A method and system for optimizing modules of a steel manufacturing process includes a plurality of manufacturing modules for a manufacturing process. Each of the modules have a plurality of steps. The plurality of modules include at least an upstream module, a casting module, and a downstream module. Each of the plurality of modules have parameters, and include at least one variable event. The variable event is adjustable for optimization of the manufacturing process while the parameters are being maintained for each of the plurality of modules. A communication system is used for exchanging information between the modules while the manufacturing process is occurring to adjust the at least one variable event for optimizing the manufacturing process. |
| US08670853B2 |
Analog-to-digital converter, sound processing device, and analog-to-digital conversion method
The invention provides a sound processing device. In one embodiment, the sound processing device comprises a first microphone, a first analog-to-digital converter, a second microphone, and a second analog-to-digital converter. The first microphone detects a first sound pressure to generate a first analog audio signal. The first analog-to-digital converter converts the first analog audio signal from analog to digital to obtain a first digital audio signal. The second microphone detects a second sound pressure to generate a second analog audio signal. The second analog-to-digital converter receives the first digital audio signal and a clock signal, inverts the phase of the first digital audio signal to generate a third digital audio signal, converts the second analog audio signal from analog to digital to obtain a second digital audio signal, encodes a fourth digital audio signal according to the second digital audio signal, outputs data bits of the third digital audio signal when the clock signal oscillates to a logic low level, and outputs data bits of the fourth digital audio signal when the clock signal oscillates to a logic high level. |
| US08670852B2 |
Audio streaming system and method for performing distributed audio processing within the system
A system and method for performing distributed audio processing within the system uses streamed audio playing satellite units of the system to perform audio processing tasks, which are assigned to the appropriate streamed audio playing satellite units by an audio streaming base unit of the system. |
| US08670851B2 |
Efficient techniques for modifying audio playback rates
Improved techniques for modifying a playback rate of an audio item (e.g., an audio stream) are disclosed. As a result, the audio item can be played back faster or slower than normal. The improved techniques are resource efficient and well suited for audio items containing speech. The resource efficiency of the improved techniques make them well suited for use with portable media devices, such as portable media players. |
| US08670842B1 |
Intra-cardiac implantable medical device
An intra-cardiac implantable medical device (IIMD) system may include a housing and an intra-cardiac (IC) device extension. The housing may be configured to be implanted entirely within a local chamber of the heart. The housing includes a base configured to be secured to the local chamber. The IC device extension may include a proximal end, a distal end, and an extension body extending there between. The proximal end may be coupled to the housing and configured to be located in the local chamber. The extension body may include an IE orientation segment connected to a chamber transition segment that is sufficient in length to extend from the local chamber into an adjacent chamber. The IE orientation segment is configured to be lodged within the adjacent chamber in order to stabilize the system within heart. |
| US08670838B2 |
Resistance welded junction for medical electrical leads
A medical electrical lead component includes a groove formed in a surface of the component. The medical electrical lead includes a portion of a conductor positioned within the groove and a resistance weld formed between the portion of the conductor positioned within the groove and the component. In one embodiment, the portion of the conductor positioned within the groove includes a pre-weld diameter greater than the depth of the groove. |
| US08670837B2 |
Method and means to adjust the positioning of stimulating neural and muscular electrode
A device for electrical stimulation of the brain, heart, and other neurons and muscles, capable of modifying the electrical activity of its environment in ways that are desirable for a better life style of a patient with brain, heart, or other problems. When used for brain stimulation, the device is able to superimpose an electrical current on the natural current that happens to occur, when the natural currents cause some undesirable effect, as in Parkinson's disease. When used for heart stimulation, the device is able to superimpose an electrical current on the natural current that happens to occur, originating at the sino-atrial node, which causes a healthy heart to pump blood to the lungs and to the body. The device offers an improvement over prior art of being capable of adjusting the position of the stimulating electrodes. |
| US08670834B2 |
Optimal model constants for simultaneous stimulation with channel interaction compensation
Approaches are described for fitting a simultaneous stimulation arrangement of a cochlear implant system to an implanted patient. Electrode contacts in an electrode array implanted in a patient cochlea are stimulated with a fitting pattern of stimulation signals. Then current spread decay parameters are determined for patient specific amplitude compensation of the simultaneous stimulation arrangement based on either a psychoacoustic aspect or an objective measurement of patient percept to the fitting pattern. |
| US08670833B2 |
Methods and apparatus for using sensors with a deep brain stimulation system
A system and method for applying stimulation to a target stimulation site within a patient, while avoiding undesirable eye movement side effects of the stimulation, are provided. The method includes determining whether eye movement, sensed by internal or external electrodes, is a side effect of a conveyed electrical stimulus. If the eye movement is a side effect, the electrical current distribution of the stimulus is modified in order to steer a locus of the electrical stimulus from one tissue region of the patient to another different tissue region of the patient, thereby mitigating the eye movement side effects. For example, the locus of the electrical stimulus may be steered away from the oculomotor nerve. Eye movement side effects of DBS treatment may include apraxia of lid opening, downward movement and adduction of only one eyeball, and/or continuous deviation of both eyeballs. |
| US08670831B2 |
Dorsal column stimulation therapy
In some examples, the disclosure relates to system, devices, and techniques for delivering dorsal column stimulation. One or more locations for dorsal column stimulation may be identified based on sensed signals evoked by delivery of stimulation to a dorsal root and/or peripheral nerve of a patient. In some examples, an IMD may deliver dorsal column stimulation in combination with dorsal root stimulation to a patient to treat a patient condition. |
| US08670828B2 |
Method and devices for coupling a lead conductor member to a functional component
The embodiments herein relate to a connection body for welding a conductor member to a functional lead component such as a fixation base or terminal pin. The various connection body embodiments each have at least one slot defined in a wall of the connection body at which the conductor member is laser welded to the connection body. |
| US08670825B2 |
Method and system for discrimination of VT and SVT arrhythmias
Methods and systems are provided for discriminating heart arrhythmias. The methods and systems include identifying an arrhythmia, recording a predetermined number of beats during the arrhythmia as a base arrhythmia (BA) beats; delivering anti-tachy pacing (ATP) therapy to at least one chamber of the heart. After delivering the ATP therapy, the methods and system record at least one return beat representing cardiac activity following the ATP therapy, determines whether the return beat originated in a reference chamber of the heart, compares a morphology of the return beat to a morphology of the BA beat; and declares a VT or SVT based on the comparing operation. |
| US08670821B2 |
Electroencephalogram signal processing method
An electroencephalogram signal processing method includes a recording step, a retrieving step, a removing step and a synthesizing step. The recording step retrieves EEG signal components of a testee via a plurality of electrodes, wherein the EEG signal components serve as an input signal. The retrieving step filters the input signal to obtain a predetermined frequency band signal, and subtracts the predetermined frequency band signal from the input signal to obtain a difference signal. The removing step performs an independent component analysis operation between the difference signal and a separating matrix to obtain an analysis signal, generates a separating pseudo inverse and an independent analysis signal, and performs a matrix operation between the separating pseudo inverse and the independent analysis signal to obtain a corrected signal. The synthesizing step adds the corrected signal and the predetermined frequency band signal together to obtain an output signal. |
| US08670818B2 |
Marker delivery device for tissue marker placement
A marker delivery device is configured for deploying a tissue marker. The marker delivery device includes a handle having a chamber, and a cannula. According to one aspect, the cannula has a flexible portion formed by a slot arrangement having of a plurality of spaced-apart substantially parallel peripheral slots extending through the side wall of the cannula to the lumen. A marker introducer rod is movably disposed in the lumen of the cannula for deploying the mark, and has a flexible region that corresponds to the flexible portion of the cannula. According to another aspect, a retraction mechanism is mounted to the handle and is configured to facilitate a complete retraction of both the cannula and the marker introducer rod into the chamber of the housing of the handle upon an actuation of the retraction mechanism. |
| US08670809B2 |
Systems and devices for electrical filters
Adaptations and improvements to tubular metal powder filters include employing cross sectional geometries of any suitable shape, aligning the inner conductor off-axis, replacing the inner conductive wire with a conductive trace or a superconductive trace carried by a printed circuit board, combining multiple filters within a single common outer conductive housing, and employing meandering and other non-parallel signal paths. The various adaptations and improvements are designed to accommodate single-ended and differential signaling, as well as superconducting and non-superconducting applications. |
| US08670806B2 |
Portable device for adaptive data communication control and method of operating the same
A portable device and a method of operating a portable device for performing adaptive data communication control are provided. The method includes determining the on or off state of a display unit, extracting data communication setting information including a fast dormancy policy according to the on or off state of the display unit, and controlling a data communication setting with a specific service provider network based on the extracted data communication setting information, and a portable device supporting the method. |
| US08670799B2 |
Interface and communication protocol for a mobile device with a smart battery
Various embodiments are described herein for a mobile communication device that utilizes a smart battery. The mobile device includes a main processor for controlling the operation of the mobile communication device. The smart battery is coupled to the main processor and provides supply power. The smart battery includes a battery processor for controlling the operation of the smart battery and communicating with the main processor, and a battery module having one or more batteries for providing the supply power. A battery interface is provided for coupling between the main processor and the battery processor for providing communication therebetween. The battery interface comprises a data communication line and protection circuitry for protecting the main processor from electrostatic discharge. A communication protocol is also provided for communication between the main processor and the battery processor. |
| US08670798B2 |
Extensible infotainment/telematics system having updatable user interface
An infotainment/telematics system includes a fixed base unit adapted to execute a set of stand-alone infotainment and/or telematics functions and a portable communication device adapted to execute a stand-alone infotainment and/or telematics function. The fixed base unit includes a user interface that is updated when the fixed base unit and the portable communication device are connected for intelligent communication with one another. Additionally, or in the alternative, the portable communication device may include a user interface that is updated when the fixed base unit and portable communication device are connected for intelligent communication with one another. |
| US08670796B2 |
Method and system for reduction of peak-to-average power ratio of transmission signals comprising overlapping waveforms
The present invention provides a method and system for reducing the peak to average power ratio (PAP) of a signal with low computational complexity. According to one embodiment, the present invention is applied to reduce the PAP of an OFDM signal. According to an alternative embodiment, the present invention, is applied to reduce the PAP of a CDMA signal. Rather than seeking the optimum solution, which involves significant computational complexity, the present invention provides for a number of sub-optimal techniques for reducing the PAP of an OFDM signal but with much lower computational complexity. |
| US08670790B2 |
Method for sending a data message during a telephone call
A method of sending data from a first party participating in a telephone call to a second party participating in the telephone call, comprising, in the terminal of the first party, storing, as a consequence of the telephone call, identifier data that identifies the second party; using the stored identifier data to determine automatically a destination address for a data message; and sending, during the telephone call, the data message with the automatically determined destination address. A method for sending data from a first party participating in a telephone call to a second party participating in the telephone call, comprising, in the terminal of the first party: providing, while the telephone call is on-going, a user selectable option to transfer data to another party participating in the telephone call without user specification of a destination address. |
| US08670789B2 |
Efficient paging in a wireless communication system
Methods and apparatus for efficient two-stage paging wireless communications systems are described. Wireless terminals are assigned to paging groups. A few first paging message information bits are modulated (using non-coherent modulation) into a first paging signal and communicated from a base station to wireless terminals. WTs wake-up, receive the first paging signal and quickly ascertain whether its paging group should expect a second paging signal, if so, the WT is operated to receive the second paging signal; otherwise, the WT goes back to sleep conserving power. The base station modulates (using coherent modulation) a number of second message information bits into a second paging signal and transmits the signal to WTs. From the information in first and second paging signals, a WT can determine that it is the paged WT and process the paging instructions. The intended paged WT can transmit an acknowledgement signal on a dedicated uplink resource. |
| US08670786B2 |
Location based social software for mobile devices
A method of establishing connection between users of mobile devices includes receiving at a computer a location of a first user from a first mobile device, receiving from a second mobile device a location of a second user having an acquaintance relationship to the first user, and sending a message to the first mobile device based on the proximity of the first user to the second user. |
| US08670785B2 |
Method and system for acquiring position of terminal
A method and system for acquiring a position of a terminal are provided. A position of a terminal incapable of measuring or transmitting its position may be determined by receiving position information of neighboring terminals located close to the terminal. |
| US08670783B2 |
Apparatus and method for utilizing location capable two-way radio transceivers as geo-fence posts
An infield radio communication device (100) operates in a communication system (200, 300) to dynamically identify and/or share location information to form and update a geo-fence or border. A single infield radio device (100) can be used to provide electronic location markers which can be updated in real time to create a geographical fence or border as the device (100) changes location. Additional infield radio device(s) (100) can also be used to share location markers for the creation of the geographical fence or border. |
| US08670780B2 |
Method and apparatus for establishing an intra-system interface within an unlicensed spectrum
A method and apparatus are provided for facilitating the creation of an intra-system interface between systems operating in an unlicensed spectrum, such as between respective access points of first and second LTE systems that use the same radio resources within an unlicensed spectrum, such as within the TV white spaces. In the context of a method, configuration messages may be caused to be sent to first and second systems regarding creation of an intra-system interface. The method may also receive configuration message responses including address information for first and second access points of the first and second systems, respectively. The method may additionally cause a message to be sent to the first system to trigger the first system to initiate establishment of the intra-system interface with the second system. |
| US08670779B2 |
Communications system
A method performed by a EUTRAN base station. The method includes generating a request for resource status information, sending the generated request to a neighboring EUTRAN base station, receiving one or more resource status update messages from the neighboring EUTRAN base station in response to the requested resource status information. The one or more status update messages include data identifying the physical resource block usage for real time traffic on the uplink. The method further including performing load balancing operations in dependence upon the received one or more resource status update messages. |
| US08670775B2 |
Allocation of radio resources in a CDMA2000 cellular system
A CDMA data transmission system and method for periodically allocating channels to subscriber units, wherein prior to the beginning of any period all active subscriber units are identified that are in communication with the transmitter and for which there are data, exceeding a given minimal quantity, stored in a buffer. For each active subscriber unit one or more priority factors are calculated as a function of associated power levels; and on the basis of the priority factors, at least one channel is allocated to a corresponding active subscriber unit. The channel allocation is repeated in respect of any active subscriber units to which no channels have yet been allocated, subject to an availability of unallocated channels and subject to a limitation of maximum transmitter power. |
| US08670774B2 |
Systems and methods for uplink control resource allocation
Systems and methods of uniquely identifying communication nodes in a wireless communication system are described herein. One embodiment of the disclosure provides a wireless communication apparatus operative in a communication network. The apparatus comprises a transceiver configured to transmit control information over a first frequency range and content data over a second frequency range during a first predetermined time interval. The first frequency range is allocated to carry a first plurality of control blocks for transmitting only the control information. A duration of each of the first plurality of control blocks spans over the entire duration of the first predetermined time interval. The apparatus further comprises a processing circuit configured to direct the control information of the transceiver over the second frequency range for transmission to a base station node. |
| US08670773B2 |
Control device, communication system, resource allocation method, and recording medium containing program
A control device, which is placed in a communication system in which the same resource is used in a plurality of communication areas, includes a communication function unit having a function of communicating with a plurality of user equipments existing in at least one communication area under control of the control device, and a resource allocation unit that, when an uplink resource of a communication area adjacent to one communication area is allocated to a first user equipment, allocates the same uplink resource of the one communication area to a second user equipment with an interference power to the adjacent communication area equal to or lower than an interference threshold and a communication quality equal to or higher than a quality threshold. |
| US08670770B2 |
Communications system and method
A method of operation of a mobile network (1) comprising network core central nodes including a switching node and at least one remote node (4, 5) linked with the central nodes via a remote backhaul communication link (3). The method performs local connection of data or voice sessions. A remote node (4, 5) extracts, from signals, information concerning said devices to populate a database, and accesses said database when deciding whether to connect the call locally. The information includes device capability information including codec capabilities of the originating and terminating devices (MS-A, B, C). A remote node alters signalling information concerning codec capabilities of at least one of the devices (MS-A, B, C) to force use of the same codecs during the session. In one example, the information is extracted from a Bearer Capability field in a Call Confirmed message sent back from the terminating device and stored in the database for use in subsequent decisions concerning local connections of sessions. The invention allows legal intercept operations and is adaptive to handover conditions. |
| US08670768B2 |
Cell selection method and mobile station
A cell selection method includes steps of: (A) determining, at a mobile station (UE), whether or not a first CSG cell satisfies a predetermined condition, when using a first macro cell as a camped cell; and (B) changing, at the mobile station (UE), the camped cell from the first macro cell to a first CSG cell, when determined that the first CSG cell satisfies the predetermined condition. |
| US08670766B2 |
Method of SET-to-SET location service in a communication system
A method of performing a SET-to-SET location service in a communication system is disclosed. The method comprises a first SUPL enabled terminal (SET) of the communication system sending a first Secure User Plane Location (SUPL) message to a home SUPL Location Platform (H-SLP) of the communication system for starting a session to query a plurality of location information of a second SET of the communication system, the H-SLP performing a positioning procedure with the second SET according to the first SUPL message, the second SET providing the plurality of location information, and the H-SLP sending a plurality of second SUPL messages to the first SET. |
| US08670764B2 |
Wireless communication systems and methods for processing handover messages thereof and computer program products thereof
Methods for processing messages in a wireless communication system including a femto network (FN) including at least one Home NodeB, a core network (CN), a macro network (MN) including a serving base station and a gateway located between the FN and the CN is provided. First, a handover request is received from the Home NodeB or a server of the CN when two mobile devices are communicating. When the handover request is received from the Home NodeB, the gateway transmits a call setup request to the CN to setup a first call path between the gateway and the CN according to the handover request, transmits the handover request to the CN through the first call path to obtain a second call path from the CN to the FN and directs the server to perform the handover request according to the first call path and the second call path. |
| US08670763B1 |
Service dependent handoff channel selection
A method and corresponding system for management of neighbor scanning in a cellular wireless communication system is disclosed. A radio access network (RAN) sends, and a mobile device receives, a neighbor list update message containing a plurality of different neighbor lists each listing available neighboring coverage areas communicating on respective communication channels. While the mobile device is engaged in a call, the mobile device selects one of the neighbor lists based on a service type of the engaged call. The mobile device scans the neighbors listed in the selected neighbor list for signal strengths sufficient to trigger a hand off. The mobile device sends a report indicating measured signal strengths of signals from the neighbors to the RAN, which then instructs the mobile device to hand off the engaged call. |
| US08670761B2 |
PLMN frequency search triggered by country code change
A mobile UE initiates a full search of all supported frequencies upon detecting a change in the Mobile Country Code (MCC) transmitted by a PLMN. The change in MCC indicates the user had crossed a political border, and the spectrum allocated for wireless communication may be different. In one embodiment, the mobile UE stores the current MCC. Upon obtaining an updated MCC, it is compared to the stored MCC. If the updated MCC is different from the stored MCC, the full frequency search is initiated. To prevent excessive searching, with concomitant power consumption, while traveling near a border, the UE waits a predetermined duration after an MCC-initiated full scan before conducting a subsequent full scan, even if the MCC changes within that duration. |
| US08670759B2 |
Communication system
A communication system, which makes possible to carry out wide area communication between terminals, includes a mobile communication terminal which has a mobile communication means to carryout communication via a mobile communication network and a near field wireless communication means to carry out communication via a near field wireless communication network, and a near field wireless communication terminal which has a near field communication means to carry out communication via the near field communication network. Moreover, the mobile communication terminal comprises a communication repeating means to connect, as a repeater, other mobile communication terminal which is connected to the mobile communication terminal via the mobile communication network, and the near field wireless communication terminal which is connected to the mobile communication terminal via the near field communication network, by use of a communication path between the mobile communication terminal and the other mobile communication terminal. |
| US08670758B2 |
Technique for platform-to-platform communication
A technique for inter-platform communication between functional components located on different network access platforms will be described. A method aspect of this technique comprises the step of providing a first network access platform comprising a first functional component adapted to provide and/or request a platform-based function to and/or from a second functional component located on a second network access platform. On the first network access platform an inter-platform communication application is installed that is adapted to control signalling between the first functional component and the second functional component. The inter-platform communication application is enabled to contact a first middleware function provided for accessing the second functional component. Then, a communication path is established between the first functional component and the second functional via the inter-platform communication application and the first middleware function. |
| US08670757B2 |
Apparatus, system and method capable of integrating a cellular phone stack in an extended firmware interface (EFI) layer
An embodiment of the present invention provides an apparatus, comprising a wireless device capable of integrating a cellular phone stack in an extended firmware interface (EFI) layer, wherein the cellular phone stack within the EFI layer may include TDMA or CDMA0-based technology. An embodiment of the present invention may further provide at least one agent running under an OS/EFI continuously monitoring said wireless device status, OS availability and remaining power and wherein anytime events occur where said OS is unavailable, missing, infected, corrupted or when the remaining power is less than threshold, the wireless device may switch itself to the low power secure EFI mode where it may continue to use basic cell phone services and applications seamlessly. |
| US08670756B2 |
Mobile terminal, in-vehicle apparatus, communication system, and control method for mobile terminal
A mobile terminal for communicating with an in-vehicle apparatus includes: a mobile connection detection device for detecting connection between the mobile terminal and the in-vehicle apparatus; and a mobile control device for controlling a plurality of functions, each of which is executed by consuming electric power of the mobile terminal. When the mobile connection detection device detects the connection, the mobile control device suppresses or stops executing one of the functions in the mobile terminal. This enables to save power consumption of the mobile terminal without turning off the mobile terminal when it is brought into a vehicle compartment. |
| US08670753B2 |
System and method for determining and delivering appropriate multimedia content to data communication devices
Provided herein are exemplary techniques for determining and delivering, appropriate multimedia content comprising a combination of text, images, sounds, rich-text, animation, video, etc. to personal data communication devices (107), such as wireless cell-phones or wireless PDA's, based upon device specific information such as the network protocol used by the device, the network provider, the device capabilities (110), the current state of the device, user specified settings, etc. An application server (109) contains an interpreter capable of executing a set of instructions to manage the delivery and receipt of appropriate multimedia and simple text content to and from personal communication devices (107). Appropriate content (104) is sent to the personal data communication device (107) based on the network protocol used by the device, the network provider, the device capabilities, the current state of the device and user specified settings under the control of the interpreter. A plurality of device capability input handlers (108) controlled by the interpreter is used to capture the device capability of the personal data communication device (107). |
| US08670752B2 |
Providing integrated service-entity premium communication services
Systems, methods, and devices that integrate a subscriber's communication services, including home wireline communication services, and a service-entity communication services are presented. User equipment (UE) is associated with a subscription for communication services, comprising wireline and wireless communication services, of a subscriber. The UE communicates with an enhanced service management component (ESMC) associated with a service entity to facilitate integration of at least a portion of the subscriber's communication services with the service entity's communication services while the UE is registered with the ESMC. While registered, the subscriber's UE is used to facilitate controlling a door lock to the subscriber's room associated with the service entity; and accessing the integrated communication services, including at least a portion of the home services, while in a location of the service entity, at least when the home services are provided via the same provider as that serving the service entity. |
| US08670751B2 |
Method, system and terminal for realizing multimedia color ring back tone service in IMS domain
The present invention provides a method, terminal and system for implementing a multimedia coloring ring back tone (MCRBT) service in IMS domain. This method comprises: after receiving a call from a caller, a core network setting up a connection with a MCRBT service system when the callee is called if determining that the callee subscribes the MCRBT service; said MCRBT service system triggering the MCRBT service, and sending an address of a MCRBT file set by said callee through said core network; and said caller downloading said MCRBT file from a media resource server of said MCRBT service system according to said address, and enjoying said MCRBT file from a calling terminal when a called terminal rings. The present invention can meet the requirement of the caller of enjoying the MCRBT file set by the callee when the caller calls the callee of IMS domain, and better services are provided. |
| US08670750B2 |
System and method for accessing multi-media content via a mobile terminal
A system for accessing multi-media content is provided, which is adapted to be accessed by a mobile terminal through a radio net work. The system comprises storage means adapted to store a plurality of multi-media content files having different digital formats. The system further comprises a mobile terminal characterizing unit, which is adapted to provide mobile terminal capabilities information indicating at least one capability of the mobile terminal, and a matching unit, which is adapted to identify a subset of the plurality of multi-media content files having at least one specific digital format wherein the at least one specific digital format is supported by the at least one capability of the mobile terminal, wherein the system is adapted to provide the subject of the plurality of multi-media content files having the at least one supported digital format to the mobile terminal. The mobile terminal characterizing unit is further adapted to receive terminal identification information from the mobile terminal and to provide the terminal capabilities information based on the terminal identification information, and wherein the matching unit is further adapted to identify the subset of the plurality of multi-media content files based on the terminal capabilities information. |
| US08670746B2 |
Enhancing security in a wireless network
A method of enhancing security in a wireless mesh communication network operating in a process control environment and including a plurality of wireless network devices includes processing a join request from a wireless device wishing to join the wireless mesh communication network, providing a limited network functionality to the wireless device if the join request is granted, requesting a complete approval of the wireless device; and granting a full network functionality to the wireless device if the complete approval of the wireless device is received. |
| US08670742B2 |
Radio communication system having functions of replying status information and remote control
A radio communication system having functions of replying status information and remote control, includes a console and a plurality of radio terminals, wherein each of the radio terminal is capable of transmitting corresponding Ack message about an operation status thereof to the console over a mobile communication system, if the operation status is changed. After receiving the Ack message, the console automatically or manually transmits corresponding message or a control command to the radio terminal to change the operation status of the radio terminal. Furthermore, when transmitting dispatch message, the console is capable of storing the dispatch message simultaneously in a server so as to allow the radio terminal to access the server and retrieve the stored dispatch message. |
| US08670739B1 |
Frequency-translational bandpass filter with harmonic rejection
A high quality factor frequency translated bandpass filter (FTBPF) with harmonic rejection includes multiple transconductance cells configured to convert a received radio frequency (RF) voltage signal into respective RF current signals. Each of the transconductance cells are weighted such that the FTBPF has an effective transconductance of a first magnitude for frequency components of the received RF voltage signal arising from a first harmonic and an effective transconductance of a second magnitude less than the first magnitude for frequency components of the received RF voltage signal arising from harmonics at integer multiples of the first harmonic. The FTBPF also includes multiple frequency conversion cells coupled to the transconductance cells and configured to mix respective ones of the RF current signals with multiple non-overlapping local oscillator signals. The FTBPF also includes multiple baseband impedances coupled to outputs of the frequency conversion cells and ground and are frequency translated by mixed signals from the frequency conversion cells. |
| US08670732B2 |
Broadband amplifier system using a 3dB quadrature combiner to dynamically modulate load impedance
Systems and methods are provided for modulating a radio frequency (RF) carrier signal with a baseband input signal and amplifying the modulated RF carrier signal to provide an amplified RF signal. A quadrature combiner is configured to provide the amplified RF signal at an associated output port. A main amplifier is configured to receive a first modulated RF signal and provide a main output to one of a through port and a coupled port of the quadrature combiner. An auxiliary amplifier is configured to receive a second modulated RF signal and provide an auxiliary output to an isolation port of the quadrature combiner. |
| US08670727B2 |
Automatic discovery of wireless communication settings
A method of discovering connection specific settings from a mobile unit for a telecommunications connection at a navigation device is disclosed herein. In one example embodiment, the method may include establishing a wireless connection between the mobile unit and the navigation device to retrieve preliminary information from the mobile device, querying of a plurality of entries in a database within the navigation device based on the preliminary information, attempting to establish the telecommunications connection using the queried entries, and storing the entry resulting in a successful establishment of the telecommunications connection as the connection specific settings for the mobile unit. |
| US08670724B2 |
Wireless communication terminal, control method therefor, and information storage medium
Provided is a wireless communication terminal that allows a wireless communication connection to be disconnected even when an application program that requires continuation of the communication connection is being executed. The wireless communication terminal transmits data to a communication target in response to a transmission processing request from an application execution section for executing the application program. The wireless communication terminal is configured to: establish the wireless communication connection to the communication target; disconnect, based on a given condition, the wireless communication connection to the communication target to cause a shift to a communication interrupted state; re-establish the wireless communication connection to the communication target when the transmission processing request is received in the communication interrupted state from the application execution section; and transmit, to the communication target, the data relating to the transmission processing request after the re-establishment of the wireless communication connection. |
| US08670723B2 |
Measuring quality of experience associated with a mobile device
Implementations and techniques for measuring quality of experience associated with a mobile device are generally disclosed. |
| US08670721B2 |
Method for collaborative discrimation between authentic and spurious signals in a wireless cognitive network
A WRAN discriminates between authentic incumbent and spurious/malicious signals by collaboratively sensing the frequency environment, classifying and fusing the sensed results, and categorizing each signal as valid or invalid. Embodiments categorize signals according to reports from at least two nodes, thereby increasing detection confidence and resisting denial-of-service attacks. A “voting-rule” can be applied whereby a signal is authentic only if it is detected by a specified percentage of the nodes. Some embodiments categorized signals by comparing sensed analog signal properties, such as amplitude, bandwidth, pulse width, mean, variance, modulation, standard deviation, moments, cumulants, and rise and fall times, with properties of known incumbents and/or known incumbent types. Sensed results can be weighted according to known node locations and/or local topology, sensed signal strengths, and comparisons of sensed analog features with corresponding features of known incumbents and/or known incumbent types in the same class. |
| US08670720B2 |
Devices and methods for phase shifting a radio frequency (RF) signal for a base station antenna
Methods and devices for phase shifting an RF signal for a base station antenna are provided. The device includes a transmission line that has a stationary ground plane coupled to the top of a substrate and a signal line on the bottom of the substrate. The signal line has an input port and an output port. The input port receives the RF signal with a certain phase and travels across the bottom of the substrate to the output port. The RF signal has a different phase at the output port because defected ground structures etched on the stationary ground plane shift the phase of the RF signal. In addition, the device includes a movable ground plane that may cover a portion of the defected ground structures, the substrate, and the stationary ground plane such that the moveable ground plane further adjusts the phase of the RF signal. |
| US08670719B2 |
Multi-point opportunistic beamforming with selective beam attenuation
A method for communication includes receiving at a receiver from a group of two or more transmitters multiple Radio Frequency (RF) transmission beams that alternate in time and space and include at least first and second transmission beams. The method identifies that the first transmission beam causes interference to reception of the second transmission beam. Feedback is sent from the receiver to one or more of the transmitters, so as to cause the transmitters to attenuate the first transmission beam during transmission of the second transmission beam. |
| US08670718B2 |
Method and system for antenna selection diversity with biasing
A signal quality metric is determined for each of multiple signal paths. Each of the signal paths corresponds to a respective antenna. The determined signal quality metric is modified for one or more signal paths. A subset of the signal paths is selected for receiving a signal based at least in part on the determined signal quality metrics. The selecting is biased based at least in part on the modified signal quality metrics. |
| US08670717B2 |
System and method for enabling coordinated beam switching and scheduling
A system and method for enabling coordinated beam switching scheduling and switching is provided. A method for controller operation includes selecting beams for transmission in a beam cycle pattern, transmitting the selected beams in the beam cycle pattern, scheduling a subset of the plurality of communications nodes based on received transmissions for the subset of communications nodes and channel information reports from the plurality of communications nodes, and transmitting the received transmissions to the scheduled subset of the plurality of communications nodes. The selecting is based on measurements of received signal power to noise made by a plurality of communications nodes, and the channel information reports are based on measurements of received signal power plus received interference power to noise made by each of the plurality of communications nodes. |
| US08670716B2 |
Apparatus and method for scheduling in a multi-hop relay wireless communication system
A multi-hop relay wireless communication system is provided. A base station (BS) includes a communication unit for receiving information on a received signal level and information on an interference node from mobile stations (MSs), and a scheduler for classifying a type of each MS by using the received signal level information and the interference node information and for performing differentiated scheduling according to the MS type. |
| US08670715B2 |
Communications methods, methods of forming a reader, wireless communications readers, and wireless communications systems
Communications methods, methods of forming a reader, wireless communications readers, and wireless communications systems are described in some embodiments. In one embodiment, a communications method includes associating a plurality of remote communications devices with a plurality of objects located within a wireless communications range of a reader having a first configuration, providing one of the remote communications device within a wireless communications range of a reader having a second configuration, wherein the wireless communications range of the reader having the second configuration is less than the wireless communications range of the reader having the first configuration, and during the presence of the one of the remote communications devices within the wireless communications range of the reader having the second configuration, implementing communications between the reader having the second configuration and only the one of the remote communications devices. |
| US08670711B2 |
Method of detecting a NFC device emulating several contactless cards which may use a plurality of protocols
The invention is a method of managing a NFC transaction between two hosts and a reader device. The two hosts are embedded in NFC devices and are intended to be identified by the reader device during an anti-collision phase through a first identifier and a second identifier respectively. The first identifier comprises a variable part. The method includes the steps of generating the first identifier, the variable part of the first identifier and the second identifier comprising a common pattern, looking for a common pattern into the first and second identifiers on the reader device side, and if a common pattern is found and if the variable part of the first identifier comprises said common pattern, concluding that the first and second hosts are embedded in a unique NFC device. |
| US08670710B2 |
Filtering a single wire protocol (SWP) current signal to be provided to a near field communications (NFC) device
A communications device is disclosed that includes a united integrated circuit card (UICC) that provides a single wire protocol (SWP) current signal to a near field communications (NFC) device. The SWP current signal is filtered by a filter to remove noise from the SWP current signal. The filter is precharged by a reference voltage when the SWP current signal is in a low state and then filters the SWP current signal when the SWP current signal is in a high state. A switching network provides the filter with the reference voltage to precharge when the SWP is current signal is in the low state and then provides the filter with the SWP current signal to filter when the SWP current signal is in the high state. |
| US08670708B2 |
Portable wireless through-the-earth communication system
A portable wireless through-the-earth bi-directional communication system for sending and receiving text data using ultra-low-frequency electric current and the earth as the conductive media. A surface controller which executes application software which controls the communication functions of the system. A surface receiver and surface transmitter are connected to sets of electrodes which provide the electric current, and are in communication with the surface controller. Text data are encoded into data packets, modulated onto ultra-low-frequency electric carrier waves, and transmitted through the earth by the surface electrodes to a subsurface transceiver. The subsurface transceiver demodulates, converts and displays incoming signals into text messages. The subsurface transceiver has a user interface to allow subsurface users to submit text data to the surface receiver. The transceiver converts the text data into analog data packets, modulates the packets onto ultra-low-frequency carrier waves, and transmits the signal to the surface receiver. |
| US08670706B2 |
System and method for optimizing satellite network utilization
A system and method for optimizing satellite network utilization is disclosed. The method includes delivering a message to a communication device in the satellite network where a confirmation is received from a satellite network gateway that a message is intended for the communication device, scheduling a notification for the communication device at a scheduled time, and at the scheduled time, instructing the satellite network gateway to send the notification to the communication device. The notification causes the communication device to request the message from the network gateway upon receipt of the notification by the communication device. Scheduling may be coordinated within an alert window time period of the communication device when it is listening for notifications. The start time of the alert window time period may be provided by an application gateway, that along with the communication device, receive network time data to remain synchronized. |
| US08670704B2 |
Pilot transmission by relay stations in a multihop relay communication system
Techniques to support multihop relay in a wireless communication system are described. In an aspect, a relay station receives data and a first pilot from an upstream station, e.g., a base station or another relay station. The relay station derives a channel estimate based on the first pilot and performs detection for the data based on the channel estimate. The relay station resends the data and sends a second pilot to a downstream station, e.g., a subscriber station or another relay station. Each pilot may be sent in accordance with a pilot format selected for that pilot. The first and second pilots may be sent using the same or different pilot formats. The relay station may receive channel information from the second station and may forward the channel information to the first station and/or select a rate for data transmission to the second station based on the channel information. |
| US08670695B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes an image bearing member on which an electrostatic image is to be formed; a rotatable supporting member, configured to support a developing device for developing the electrostatic image and configured to rotationally move the developing device toward a developing position, provided movably in a rotational axis direction with respect to a main assembly of the image forming apparatus; an urging member for urging the rotatable supporting member in the rotational axis direction. In addition, a regulating portion regulates a position of the rotatable supporting member, with respect to the rotational axis direction, urged by the urging member. The rotatable supporting member includes a first rotatable member provided movably in the rotational axis direction at one end side of the rotatable supporting member with respect to the rotational axis direction, and a second rotatable member provided movably in the rotational axis direction at the other end side of the rotatable supporting member. The urging member urges the first rotatable member and the second rotatable member apart. |
| US08670694B2 |
Gear drive apparatus, driving device including gear drive apparatus, and image forming device including gear drive apparatus
A gear drive apparatus includes a gear train including a plurality of gears, and a holding unit accommodating the gear train and a lubricant to be supplied to tooth flanks of each of the plurality of gears, the holding unit including an inlet opening from which the lubricant is poured. The lubricant from the inlet opening is supplied to an engagement area where two gears of the plurality of gears are engaged with each other, or to a tooth flank area of one of the two gears at an upstream part from the engagement area along a rotational direction of the one of the two gears. |
| US08670681B2 |
Image inspection device and image forming apparatus
An image inspection device includes an acquiring section that reads an image formed on an image carrying medium using an image forming material and acquires first inspection image information; and a decoloring section that leaves an infrared absorbent on the image carrying medium, and decolors a decolorable composition on the image carrying medium by physical treatment or chemical treatment, wherein the image forming material contains the infrared absorbent having an optical absorption peak in an infrared region, and the image forming material contains the decolorable composition having an optical absorption peak in a visible region in a color-developed state and being decolored by physical treatment or chemical treatment. |
| US08670674B2 |
Optical transmitter and method for controlling the same
An optical transmitter includes: a first modulator that modulates a first optical signal with a first data signal; a second modulator that modulates a second optical signal with a second data signal; a multiplexer that multiplexes the first optical signal and the modulated second optical signal to output a multiplexed signal; a phase difference data generator that generates a phase difference signal corresponding to a phase difference between the modulated first optical signal and the modulated second optical signal from the multiplexed signal; and a controller that controls the phase difference between the modulated first optical signal and the modulated second optical signal based on the phase difference signal. |
| US08670673B2 |
Method of operating an optical transmission system, optical transmitter, and optical receiver
The invention relates to a method of operating an optical transmission system (100a, 100b, 100c), wherein at least one optical data signal is transmitted over an optical transmission link (120), which particularly comprises at least one optical fiber (120a).The inventive method is characterized by modulating (200) said data signal with a test signal (s) having a predetermined modulation frequency fmod to obtain a modulated data signal (Pin), by receiving (210) a reflected portion (Pback) of said modulated data signal (Pin), and by determining (220) a fiber quality measure (a) depending on said received reflected portion (Pback) of said modulated signal (Pin). |
| US08670672B2 |
Quantum information system
According to one embodiment, a quantum information system includes a source of time dependent entangled photons and an indicating unit. The indicating unit indicates the entangled state of the entangled photons based on the emission time of one or more of the entangled photons. |
| US08670671B2 |
Energy-efficient optical source
An optical source includes a set of N light sources that provide a corresponding set of N optical signals having N carrier wavelengths. These optical signals are combined into a seed optical signal and transported to a substrate using an optical fiber. This substrate includes a set of K optical amplifiers that amplify the seed optical signal and provide a set of M output optical signals on a corresponding set of M output optical waveguides (where M is less than K). In this way, a total power of the set of M output optical signals may be significantly larger than that of the seed optical signal, thereby ensuring that a majority of a power efficiency of the optical source is associated with power efficiencies of the set of K optical amplifiers instead of power efficiencies of the set of N light sources. |
| US08670670B2 |
Optical ring network architecture
An optical ring network architecture including a number (N) of multi-add/drop filters, such as filters formed using pairs of frequency routers. Each multi-add/drop filter is coupled to two other multi-add/drop filters using N-2 transmission media, such as optical fibers, to form a ring. The network includes a number (N) of terminal stations associated with the multi-add/drop filters. A terminal station (p) is coupled with, and receives information from, its associated multi-add/drop filter (p) through a single optical fiber. The terminal station p is coupled with, and transmits information in a first direction around the ring to, a multi-add/drop filter p+1 through a single optical fiber. Communications from terminal station p to each other terminal station in the first direction are assigned one of N-1 wavelengths where no two wavelengths on a given optical fiber are associated with communications between terminal stations in the same direction. |
| US08670669B2 |
Directionless reconfigurable optical add and drop mesh node
A reconfigurable optical add/drop multiplexer (ROADM) with a multiplexer, demultiplexer, and a wavelength cross-connect unit provides directionless capabilities. The ROADM allows a signal not to be limited to a particular direction when added at an optical network node, for example. The signal can be sent to other directions of the optical network node. Furthermore, the ROADM allows the wavelengths of add and drop signals to be changed and hence is “colorless.” |
| US08670668B2 |
Digitizer for use in an overlay system with digital optical transmitter for digitized narrowcast signals
Methods and apparatuses are provided to digitize an analog multi-channel RF narrowcast signal in an overlay system by dividing the signal into a plurality of subband signals and digitizing each subband signal using practical A/D converters. |
| US08670663B2 |
Methods, systems, and computer-readable media for providing notification of a power failure
Methods, systems, and computer-readable media provide for notifying an optical line termination (OLT) of a power failure. According to embodiments, a method for notifying an OLT of a power failure is provided. According to the method, a notification of a power failure at an optical network termination (ONT) is received. In response to receiving the notification, power is retrieved from a dedicated power storage unit dedicated to providing power for the transmission of a dying gasp alarm. The dying gasp alarm is transmitted to the OLT utilizing at least a portion of the power from the dedicated power storage unit. The dying gasp alarm notifies the OLT of the power failure. |
| US08670647B2 |
Locking of programs against fast forwarding
Speed of commercial playing is detected and used for determining whether program information can be played. |
| US08670637B2 |
Optical clock signal distribution using through-silicon vias
An integrated circuit structure includes a semiconductor chip including a front surface and a back surface; a via extending from the back surface of the semiconductor chip into the semiconductor chip, wherein the via is light transparent; and a photon detector in the semiconductor chip and exposed to the via. |
| US08670636B2 |
Image registration system
An image registration server which can communicate with a client device, includes an image data receiving device for receiving image data transmitted from the client device, an image data generation device for generating image data representing the same image as an image represented by the image data received by the image data receiving device and having a different form of representation therefrom, and an image data storage device for storing the image data generated by the image data generation device so as to be accessible. |
| US08670635B2 |
Method and device for determining the position, radius and/or shape deviation of a ring structure
A system and method processes intensity images having a ring structure to measure position, shape deviation and/or radius of the ring structure, and to evaluate interferograms and/or localize objects. The system and method can define N sectors of the intensity image respectively having sector tips lying at a common sector origin within the ring structure, with N being a natural number where N>1, detect a distance of an intensity extreme from the respective sector tip of each sector of at least one group of the sectors to obtain a distance vector that includes the distances from all the sectors from at least the group of the sectors, perform a Fourier transformation of the distance vector, and determine a center, a radius and/or a deviation of the ring structure from a circular shape,-by using the first Fourier vector obtained by the Fourier transformation. |
| US08670634B2 |
Method and apparatus for managing image-processing operations
Embodiments of the present invention provide a system for performing image conversion operations. The system starts by receiving a request from a client for one or more pixel buffers containing a pixel-formatted, cropped, geometrically transformed, and/or color matched version of an image representation. The system then determines if a provider can provide the one or more pixel buffers. If so, the system calls the provider to generate the one or more pixel buffers containing the pixel-formatted, cropped, geometrically transformed, and/or color matched version of the image representation. Otherwise, the system calls the provider to generate one or more intermediate pixel buffers, generates a sequence of converters for converting the one or more intermediate pixel buffers, and calls the sequence of converters to generate the one or more pixel buffers containing the pixel-formatted, cropped, geometrically transformed, and/or color matched version of the image representation. |
| US08670626B2 |
Method and apparatus for encoding and decoding and multi-view image
A Method and apparatus for encoding and decoding a multi-view image are provided. The method of encoding a multi-view image includes determining whether each of pictures included in multi-view image sequences is a reference picture referred to by other pictures included in the multi-view image sequences for inter-view prediction, and encoding the pictures using at least one of inter-view prediction and temporal prediction based on the determination result, thereby efficiently encoding and decoding the multi-view image at high speed. |
| US08670624B2 |
Information processing apparatus and method
Analysis filter processing is recursively repeated on horizontal and vertical low frequency component coefficients obtained as a result of the analysis filter processing, until a predetermined decomposition level is reached. Coefficients obtained during a process of computation in the analysis filter processing and, except for a preset decomposition level, horizontal and vertical low frequency component coefficients obtained as a result of the computation in the analysis filter processing are stored in a first storage section independently for each decomposition level. The coefficients stored in the first storage section are read as appropriate and the read coefficients are supplied for the analysis filter processing. The horizontal and vertical low frequency component coefficients of the preset decomposition level are stored in a second storage section. The coefficients stored in the second storage section are read as appropriate. The read coefficients are supplied for the analysis filter processing. |
| US08670623B2 |
Image processing apparatus, image conversion method, and computer-readable storage medium for computer program based on calculated degree of complexity
There are provided a labeling portion that extracts a character included in raster format image data, a complexity calculation portion that obtains a degree of complexity indicating complexity of the character, an approximation method determination portion that determines whether or not to use curve approximation to convert the character based on the degree of complexity thus obtained. In the case where it has been determined to use the curve approximation, the character is converted into a vector format by performing straight-line approximation or curve approximation on each part of a contour of the character, whereas in the case where it has been determined not to use the curve approximation, the character is converted into a vector format by performing the straight-line approximation on each part of the contour of the character without performing the curve approximation. |
| US08670619B2 |
Robust interest point detector and descriptor
A method for operating on images is described for interest point detection and/or description working under different scales and with different rotations, e.g. for scale-invariant and rotation-invariant interest point detection and/or description. |
| US08670614B2 |
Method and system for providing tile map service using image fusion
A system includes a server including a map data storage device storing original tile map data, grayscale image tile map data, and a plurality of multi-resolution color image tile map data having a resolution lower than that of the grayscale image tile map data, and a multi-resolution tile map data generation and transmission device generating the grayscale image tile map data and the multi-resolution color image tile map data and storing the generated data in the map data storage device, and a client including a multi-resolution tile map data reception and fusion device generating color tile map data by fusing the received grayscale image tile map data and color image tile map data and providing the color tile map data to a user, in which the resolution of the color image tile map data transmitted from the server is variably controlled according to the network environment. |
| US08670605B2 |
Identification method of data point distribution area on coordinate plane and recording medium
A disclosed identification method of identifying a data point distribution area on a coordinate plane includes dividing an area on the coordinate plane into divided areas so that the divided areas radiate from a division center point; selecting, in each of the divided areas, from among the data points in the divided area, a data point having the greatest distance from the division center point as a representative point; determining whether there is an overlapping area where a distribution representative point area overlaps a determination area; and determining, when there is the overlapping area, that the data group to be determined is a relevant data group. |
| US08670604B2 |
Multi-object tracking with a knowledge-based, autonomous adaptation of the tracking modeling level
The invention proposes a method for object and object configuration tracking based on sensory input data, the method comprising the steps of: (1.1) Basic recruiting: Detecting interesting parts in sensory input data which are not yet covered by already tracked objects and incrementally initializing basic tracking models for these parts to continuously estimate their states, (1.2) Tracking model complexity adjustment: Testing, during runtime more complex and more simple prediction and/or measurement models on the tracked objects, and (1.3) Basic release: Releasing trackers from parts of the sensory data where the tracker prediction and measurement processes do not get sufficient sensory support for some time. |
| US08670603B2 |
Apparatus and methods for masking a portion of a moving image stream
Apparatus and methods are described for imaging a portion of a body of a subject that undergoes a motion cycle, including acquiring a plurality of image frames of the portion of the subject's body. A given feature is identified in at least some of the image frames. At least some image frames are image tracked with respect to the feature, and the image frames that have been image tracked with respect to the given feature are displayed as a stream of image frames. Visibility of a periphery of the displayed stream of image frames is at least partially reduced, by applying a mask to the displayed stream of image frames. Other applications are also described. |
| US08670601B2 |
Multiplane reconstruction tomosynthesis method
The invention relates to a tomosynthesis method by illuminating an object by means of an X-ray source (1) with a linear trajectory (2), the method comprising breaking down a volume of the object into N fanned out planes (P) formed between the linear trajectory (2) and a detecting plane (4) parallel to the linear trajectory, each fanned out plane of said N planes includes the linear trajectory; and performing anisotropic regularization on at least one fanned out plane (P). |
| US08670600B2 |
Methods and systems for image fingerprinting
The present invention provides methods and systems to protect an organization's secure image information from unauthorized disclosure. In one embodiment, methods and systems to generate image fingerprints are provided. The fingerprints are generated for each feature point of an image data. Because the fingerprints take into account the neighborhood features around each feature point, the image fingerprints are robust against derivative images where the original image may have been altered. Methods and systems to maintain a fingerprint database for an organization's secure image data is also provided. In one embodiment, client fingerprints are generated for image data that a user intends to transmit outside of the organization. In some embodiments, suitable security actions are initiated if any of the client fingerprints match any of the fingerprints in the fingerprint database. |
| US08670594B2 |
Method and apparatus to determine the start of flowering in plants
The present invention relates generally to the field of plant breeding and concerns a method for determining the point at which a plant starts to flower. More specifically, the invention concerns a method for determining the start of flowering on an individual plant basis by measuring the reproductive structures of plants from digital images of these structures and deducing the start of flowering from the measurements and average growth rates. The invention also concerns apparatus for determining the start of flowering in plants, particularly in a high-throughput manner. |
| US08670592B2 |
Clear path detection using segmentation-based method
A method for detecting a clear path of travel for a vehicle by segmenting an image generated by a camera device located upon the vehicle includes monitoring the image, analyzing the image with a plurality of analysis methods to segment a region of the image that cannot represent the clear path of travel from a region of the image that can represent the clear path of travel, defining the clear path of travel based upon the analyzing, and utilizing the clear path of travel to navigate the vehicle. |
| US08670591B2 |
Foliage penetration based on 4D LIDAR datasets
A method for detecting terrain, through foliage, includes the steps of: receiving point cloud data in a three-dimensional (3D) space from an airborne platform, in which the point cloud data includes foliage that obscures the object; reformatting the point cloud data from the 3D space into a one-dimensional (1D) space to form a 1D signal; and decomposing the 1D signal using a wavelet transform (WT) to form a decomposed WT signal. The decomposed WT signal is reconstructed to form a low-pass filtered profile. The method classifies the low-pass filtered profile as terrain. The terrain includes a natural terrain, or a ground profile. |
| US08670588B2 |
Handheld device assembly
This is directed to several handheld device components to be placed in a handheld device, as well as methods or systems for mounting or retaining components within the device. In particular, this is directed to a rigid shield used in an SMT process and securing connected flex connectors by adhering the flexes together. This is also directed to using foam in combination with a hard material to create an acoustic seal, or several layers of foam to create an acoustic and mechanical seal. This is also directed to selectively folding a sheet of material placed around a battery cell. |
| US08670580B2 |
Electronic device
An electronic device is provided, including a conductive substrate, an electret diaphragm, a plurality of spacers, a first electrode, and two second electrodes. The conductive substrate has a plurality of openings. The spacers are disposed between the conductive substrate and the electret diaphragm to define an acoustic projecting portion and two acoustic receiving portions on the electret diaphragm. The first electrode is disposed on the acoustic projecting portion and coupled with the conductive substrate for generating an acoustic signal. The second electrodes are disposed on the acoustic receiving portions and coupled with the conductive substrate, wherein the acoustic receiving portions receive the acoustic signal and vibrate to vary an electrical field between the second electrodes and the conductive substrate. |
| US08670576B2 |
Method and an apparatus for processing an audio signal
A method of processing an audio signal is disclosed. The present invention includes receiving a downmix signal including at least one object signal and object information extracted when the downmix signal is generated, receiving mix information including mode selection information, the mix information for controlling the object signal, bypassing the downmix signal or extracting a background object and at least one independent object from the downmix signal, based on the mode selection information, and if the downmix signal is bypassed, generating multi-channel information using the object information and the mix information, wherein the downmix signal corresponds to a mono signal and wherein the mode selection information includes information indicating which one of modes including a normal mode, a mode for controlling the background object, and a mode for controlling the at least one independent object. |
| US08670575B2 |
Method and an apparatus for processing an audio signal
A method of processing an audio signal, comprising: receiving a downmix signal, a residual signal and object information; extracting at least one of a background-object signal and a foreground-object signal from the downmix signal using the residual signal; receiving mix information comprising gain control information for the background-object signal; generating a downmix processing information based on the object information and the mix information; and, generating a processed downmix signal comprising a modified background-object signal to which an adjusted gain corresponding to the gain control information is applied, by applying the downmix processing information to the at least one of the background-object signal and the foreground-object signal is disclosed. |
| US08670573B2 |
Low latency ultra wideband communications headset and operating method therefor
A wireless communication system for use in aircraft includes a wireless headset having at least one ear cup with a housing. A first ultra wideband transceiver is disposed in the ear cup housing. A base station includes a second ultra wideband transceiver. The second ultra wideband transceiver wirelessly communicates with the first ultra wideband transceiver. |
| US08670571B2 |
Frequency control based on device properties
There is provided a method of controlling a noise cancellation system, the noise cancellation system being for use in a device comprising a speaker for receiving a wanted signal and generating a sound signal therefrom, and the noise cancellation system comprising: a digital filter, for generating a noise cancellation signal from an input signal representative of ambient noise; and an output for applying the noise cancellation signal to the speaker in addition to the wanted signal to generate a sound signal from which the ambient noise has been at least partially cancelled. The method comprises: determining a resonant frequency of the speaker; based on the determined resonant frequency, selecting a set of filter coefficients; and applying the selected set of filter coefficients to the digital filter. |
| US08670570B2 |
Environmental effects generator for digital audio signals
An device and method of generating environmental reverberation effects for digital audio signals is presented. The device includes a reverberation controller. The reverberation controller pre-processes one or more predetermined characteristics of a first audio signal to produce a pre-processed signal and generates a plurality of delayed outputs from the pre-processed signal, each output having a predetermined delay. The reverberation controller also produces a plurality of reflection outputs from the plurality of delayed outputs and combines the plurality of reflection outputs to produce a second audio signal having a desired reverberation response. |
| US08670569B2 |
Method for checking audio interface in AV system and apparatus using the same
A method for checking availability of audio interface between a display apparatus and an AV apparatus in an AV system, and an AV apparatus using the same are provided. The checking includes transmitting a command to check an audio interface to a second AV apparatus where an audio from a first AV apparatus is output, and receiving a result of checking the audio interface in response to the command from the second AV apparatus. Therefore, a user can recognize whether or not an audio interface has a problem in an AV system. |
| US08670565B2 |
Encrypted packet communication system
The communications between terminals are encrypted, and even a gateway device is permitted to analyze the encrypted communications, thereby to incarnate censorship for the prevention of information leakage.A gateway device 3 prepares a public key and a secret key in a pair on the basis of a public key encryption system, and distributes the public key to terminals 2a-2c which are managed by the gateway device 3. The terminals 2a-2c subject a communication packet to a prior-art common key encryption, and they thereafter encrypt a common key with the public key and bestow the encrypted common key on the packet. The gateway device 3 decrypts the common key by using the secret key, censors the packet and returns the packet into a prior-art encrypted packet format, and it thereafter transfers the packet to a network 1c where opposite terminals 2d-2f exist. |
| US08670564B1 |
Data encryption system and method
A sender apparatus encrypts data using a key. The apparatus then calculates various parameters based on the key and a shared secret between the sender apparatus and a recipient apparatus that is remote from the sender apparatus. The calculated parameters are transmitted to the recipient apparatus, which uses such parameters to calculate the key based on the shared secret. The recipient apparatus then decrypts the data using the calculated key, which does not need to be transmitted from the sender apparatus to the recipient apparatus. |
| US08670551B2 |
Contact center monitoring
Methods and systems for providing a graphical depiction of a communication system incorporating multiple call centers distributed around the globe are provided. The user interface can present the graphical depiction in two or three dimensions. In addition, the user interface can provide a view of details concerning the performance of communication system components or events affecting the performance of such components, and can enable a supervisor to manipulate contact center parameters. |
| US08670550B2 |
Automated mechanism for populating and maintaining data structures in a queueless contact center
A queueless contact center is described along with various methods and mechanisms for administering the same. The contact center proposed herein provides the ability to, among other things, achieve true one-to-one matching. Solutions are also provided for managing data structures utilized by the queueless contact center. Furthermore, mechanisms for generating traditional queue-based performance views and metrics for the queueless contact center are proposed to help facilitate a smooth transition from traditional queue-based contact centers to the next generation contact centers described herein. |
| US08670548B2 |
Jumping callers held in queue for a call center routing system
Methods and systems are provided for routing callers to agents in a call-center routing environment. An exemplary method includes identifying caller data for a caller in a queue of callers, and jumping or moving the caller to a different position within the queue based on the caller data. The caller data may include one or both of demographic data and psychographic data. The caller can be jumped forward or backward in the queue relative to at least one other caller. Jumping the caller may further be based on comparing the caller data with agent data via a pattern matching algorithm and/or computer model for predicting a caller-agent pair outcome. Additionally, if a caller is held beyond a hold threshold (e.g., a time, “cost” function, or the like) the caller may be routed to the next available agent. |
| US08670541B2 |
Method and system for providing enhanced caller identification information including total call control for all received calls
All calls terminating to a customer's directory number are intercepted. If caller identification information can be presented, the call is forwarded to a service node for disposition. The service node reconfigures signaling information of the call so that the call is not intercepted, then forwards the call to the subscriber's telephone. When the call is answered, the service node states the name or telephone number of the calling party which has been retrieved from the signaling information. The caller can decide whether to take the call, deny the call, send the call to voice mail or send a sales refusal message or other disposition option. |
| US08670536B1 |
Enhanced service levels for call-processing services
Service levels for call-processing are enhanced based on the subscriber status of at least one of the calling party and the called party. In one example, a calling party (caller) places a call to a called party (recipient). At least one of the parties subscribes to a call-processing service and the call normally would be processed according to a predetermined service level. However, the service level is enhanced in response to a subscriber status for at least one of the parties, and the call is processed according to the enhanced service level. |
| US08670535B2 |
Associating a telephone call with a dialog based on a computer protocol such as SIP
Providing non-voice capabilities relating to a phone call at a computing device includes receiving a request to begin a telephone call from a first telephone to a second telephone, wherein the requesting is performed using messaging between computing devices connected via a computer network, and wherein the messaging is part of a signaling phase dialog. The signaling phase dialog may be used in providing information associated with the identity of parties of the telephone call. Commencing a call phase dialog between the computing devices may be performed after the telephone call is established over the public switched telephone network. The call phase dialog may allow messages relating to the telephone call to be passed between the computing devices, at least while the telephone call is in progress. The dialogs and messaging may be performed using session initiation protocol (SIP) or another computer communication protocol. |
| US08670530B2 |
Methods and devices to retrieve voice messages
Methods and devices to retrieve voice messages are disclosed. An example device includes a network interface to access a voicemail server via a network, a message parser to remove a non-message portion of a voicemail access session from a voicemail access session, and a storage device to store the message portion of the voicemail access session. |
| US08670526B2 |
Hate crime diagnostic and intervention tool for emergency dispatch
Systems and methods are provided to assist an emergency dispatcher in responding to emergency calls reporting incidents involving a hate crime or other anti-social behavior toward a victim. The systems and methods can include an emergency police dispatch protocol configured to facilitate uniform and consistent gathering of information about an incident being reported and configured to determine a determinant value corresponding to an appropriate emergency dispatch response. A diagnostic tool is provided to aid the dispatcher in gathering information about the victim that pertains to one or more bias categories. The victim information can be used to identify one or more potential biases that could have motivated the perpetrator of the hate crime or other anti-social behavior. The diagnostic tool facilitates uniform and consistent gathering of victim information pertaining to various bias types. The information may be stored and/or processed for use in monitoring and/or tracking hate crimes and other anti-social behavior. The diagnostic tool can be launched automatically by the emergency dispatch protocol, or manually by a dispatcher. The diagnostic tool presents a user interface that provides, among other things, instructions, symptoms, and input fields. |
| US08670525B2 |
Automated DSL performance adjustment
A method includes identifying one or more second digital subscriber lines from one or more first digital subscriber lines based on historical performance data. The one or more second digital subscriber lines are identified based on degraded performance that is determined using first performance information for the one or more first digital subscriber lines. The method includes applying a line profile to the one or more second digital subscriber lines. The method includes storing second performance information associated with the one or more second digital subscriber lines. The method includes sending information to a remote computing device. |
| US08670520B2 |
Shift register and one-of-many shift register
A shift register has a first latch and a second latch and a first output circuit and a second output circuit. The first latch and the second latch are series-connected. The latches are implemented to take over a signal state applied to their data inputs in a transparent state and to maintain the taken-over signal state in a non-transparent operating state. Clock inputs of the latches are switched such that the second latch is in the transparent operating state when the first latch is in the non-transparent operating state and vice versa. The first output circuit is implemented to provide a predetermined level independent of the signal state existing in the first latch at a first shift register output of the shift register in the transparent operating state and to provide a level depending on the signal state stored in the first latch in the non-transparent operating state of the first latch. The second output circuit is implemented to provide a predetermined level independent of the signal state existing in the second latch at a second shift register output of the shift register in the transparent operating state of the second latch and to provide a level depending on the signal state stored in the second latch in the non-transparent operating state of the second latch. |
| US08670518B2 |
Fully passive decay heat removal system for sodium-cooled fast reactors that utilizes partially immersed decay heat exchanger
Disclosed herein is a fully passive decay heat removal system utilizing a partially immersed heat exchanger, the system comprising: a hot pool; an intermediate heat exchanger which heat-exchanges with the sodium of the hot pool; a cold pool; a support barrel extending vertically through the boundary between the hot pool and the cold pool; a sodium-sodium decay heat exchanger received in the support barrel; a sodium-air heat exchanger provided at a position higher than the sodium-sodium decay heat exchanger; an intermediate sodium loop connecting the sodium-sodium decay heat exchanger with the sodium-air heat exchanger; and a primary pump, wherein a portion of the effective heat transfer tube of the sodium-sodium decay heat exchanger is immersed in the cold pool, particularly in a normal operating state, and the surface of the lower end of a shroud for the sodium-sodium decay heat exchanger, the lower end being immersed in the sodium of the cold pool, has perforated holes. |
| US08670517B2 |
Nuclear technology plant and method for the pressure relief of a nuclear technology plant
A nuclear plant has a containment shell and a pressure relief pipe connected thereto in which a blowing device and a Venturi washer placed in a container with a washing liquid are connected in series. Even the finest particles or aerosols carried by air are held in the Venturi washer with a very high degree of reliability and the release thereof in environment is excluded in a particularly reliable manner in the case of decompression even associated with seal failures. For this purpose, the size of the blowing device and the Venturi washer are selected in such a way that during the operation of the blowing device a flow rate of liquid in the Venturi washer flowing to the decompressing pipe is higher than 130 m/sec, preferably higher than 180 m/sec. |
| US08670516B2 |
Irradiation device for material test using gamma ray from spent nuclear fuel assembly
The present invention relates to an irradiation device for material test using a gamma ray radiated from a spent nuclear fuel assembly and provides the irradiation device for material test using a gamma ray radiated from a spent nuclear fuel assembly wherein an irradiation device for material test to achieve a radiation effect evaluation is manufactured to be movable upward, downward and horizontally in order to study the hardening phenomenon of the frail materials to the radiation among the atomic power facilities using a gamma ray radiated from a spent nuclear fuel assembly, thereby it is possible to adjust a position of the spent nuclear fuel used for material test using a gamma ray radiated from a spent nuclear fuel and a test material, identify a distance between the spent nuclear fuel and the test material easily with a scale and evaluate the radiation effects on the materials used at facilities handling a spent nuclear fuel under the same situation as they are really exposed. Further the present invention comprises a support constructed vertically; a vertical moving table which is capable of moving upward and downward connected with a proper position of the support; a moving device for moving said vertical moving table upward and downward; a horizontal moving table which is capable of moving horizontally placed on the vertical moving table; a horizontal moving bar which is capable of moving horizontally placed on the vertical moving table; and a driving device for driving the horizontal moving table and the horizontal moving bar horizontally. |
| US08670515B2 |
Digital nuclear control rod control system
A digital rod control system that employs separate power modules to energize the respective coils of a magnetic jack control rod drive rod drive system so that two, independently powered grippers can simultaneously support the control rod drive rod when it is not in motion to avoid dropped rods. The basic building block of the system is two or more selecting cabinets which receive multiplex power from at least one moving cabinet and are under the control of a single logic cabinet. Each of the cabinets include monitoring features to confirm the reliability of the system. |
| US08670509B2 |
Adaptive path selection for interference cancellation
Adaptive path selection for interference cancellation is provided for wireless communication devices. Signal strength metrics are obtained for each of multiple signal paths. One or more of the signal paths are selected as cancellation candidates in response to determining that the signal paths are associated with a strong interfering path based at least in part on the signal strength metrics for the signal paths and threshold criteria. Cancellation is enabled for an estimated signal generated using the signal paths in response to the signal paths being selected as cancellation candidates. |
| US08670508B2 |
Method and system for a low-complexity soft-output MIMO detection
An approach for Soft-output K-Best MIMO detection comprises computing an estimated symbol vector and Log-Likelihood Ratio (LLR) values for transmitted bits. The approach includes a relevant discarded paths selection process, a last-stage on-demand expansion process, and a relaxed LLR computation process. The relevant discarded paths selection process includes analyzing the K-Best paths and discarded paths at each intermediate tree level and selecting only those discarded paths for further processing that will help in LLR computation for at least one of the transmitted bits. The last-stage on-demand expansion process includes expanding K paths at the tree level 2NT−1 (NT=number of transmit antennas) on-demand to only 2K−1 lowest Partial Euclidean Distance (PED) paths at last tree level 2NT. The relaxed LLR computation scheme includes approximating LLR computations by assuming that discarded path PED is greater than or equal K-Best path PED. |
| US08670506B2 |
Apparatus and method for providing a reduced representation based on a time-domain RF signal
An apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention for providing a reduced representation in a frequency-domain, based on a time-based RF signal, has a time-frequency converter adapted to transform the time-domain RF signal to obtain a frequency-domain representation based on the time-domain signal and an entropy encoder adapted to obtain the reduced representation based on the frequency-domain representation by entropy encoding. |
| US08670494B2 |
Apparatus for transmitting and receiving a signal and method of transmitting and receiving a signal
The present invention relates to method of transmitting and receiving signals and a corresponding apparatus. One aspect of the present invention relates to an efficient layer 1 (L1) processing method for a transmitter and a receiver using data slices. |
| US08670492B2 |
Data communication system and data communication device
A carrier wave is generated by using a zero-cross point of an AC power source voltage as a reference timing, a data communication device connected to a first power line performs digital modulation with a normal-phase carrier wave, and a data communication device connected to a second power line near the first power line performs digital modulation with an anti-phase carrier wave. In this manner, unwanted radiation caused by a leak radio wave can be reduced while using power lines of two systems in independent data communication. |
| US08670491B2 |
Device and method for time synchronization in a communication network
A device and method for time synchronization in a communication network, wherein a virtual clock is produced by a controller in each network node based on the PROFINET-Standard and/or the Precision Transparent Clock Protocol. In contrast to known methods for estimating the time, the time of the virtual clock does not undergo sudden changes. The virtual clock includes a controlled, continuous path. As a result, the virtual clock is particularly suitable for time-critical applications. Here, the estimation of the time of a reference clock is improved by 18-35%. Accordingly, a markedly greater number of network nodes may be synchronized with a predetermined level of accuracy for the time synchronization. |
| US08670489B2 |
Methods and systems for picture up-sampling
Aspects of the present invention relate to systems and methods for picture up-sampling using direct interpolation. Some aspects of the present invention provide an up-sampling procedure designed for the Scalable Video Coding extension of H.264/MPEG-4 AVC. |
| US08670487B2 |
Video quality and audio quality adjustment
A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a media processor having a controller to allocate between a video and audio quality in an Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) presentation and to utilize a resultant bandwidth as a result of allocation to enhance an audio or video quality in the IPTV presentation in response to a user selection among levels of video quality and audio quality. Other embodiments are disclosed. |
| US08670483B2 |
Object tracking using graphics engine derived vectors in a motion estimation system
A method and apparatus are provided for motion estimation in a sequence of images. One or more motion vectors representing movement of a camera or viewer position or direction are determined between each pair of fields or frames in the sequence of images. A set of candidate motion vectors is then determined for deriving positions of objects in a field or frame from the positions of objects in a previous field or frame. This set of candidate motion vectors is adjusted using the motion vectors representing movement of the camera or viewer position and thus a set of motion vectors is derived for a sequence of images using the adjusted set of candidate motion vectors. |
| US08670482B2 |
Picture coding method, picture decoding method, picture coding apparatus, picture decoding apparatus, and program thereof
A picture coding method of the present invention codes a picture signal and a ratio of a number of luminance pixels and a number of chrominance pixels for the picture signal, and then one coding method out of at least two coding methods is selected depending on the ratio. Next, data related to a picture size is coded in accordance with the selected coding method. The data related to the picture size indicates a size of the picture corresponding to the picture signal or an output area, which is a pixel area to be outputted in decoding in a whole pixel area coded in the picture signal coding. |
| US08670480B2 |
Transcoder
A generated code amount accumulation part adds up the amounts of generated codes of pictures in 1 GOP which are encoded up to the current stage. An upper limit code amount accumulation part adds up the upper limit amounts of codes of the pictures in the 1 GOP which are encoded up to the current stage. A transmission load of an image transmission system is taken into consideration in the setting of the upper limit amount of codes. An update ratio setting part outputs an update instruction to lower a target rate when the accumulated amount of generated codes exceeds the accumulated upper limit amount of codes. The update ratio setting part does not output the update instruction for lowering the target rate when the accumulated amount of generated codes does not exceed the accumulated upper limit amount of codes. A transcoder can predict whether or not there is a possibility that the load of transmitting image data will increase while each picture in 1 GOP is encoded. |
| US08670479B2 |
Power line communication system
The present invention relates to a communication system comprising a transmitter and receiver in communication for transmitting signals through one or more communications channels, wherein at least one of the transmitter and the receiver each comprise a quality measure, which contributes to an overall quality measure for the system and wherein the or each communications channel comprises a plurality of sub-bands between at least two nodes, wherein the plurality of sub-bands each having a specific maximum power spectral densities (PSDs) and wherein one or more sub-bands between the transmitter and the receiver are identified as having a higher maximum PSD than other sub-bands and wherein the PSD of the one or more identified sub-bands is reduced in a predetermined manner to thereby increase the overall quality measure for the system. |
| US08670477B2 |
System and apparatus for detecting interference in radio bands
An apparatus and technique for measuring and coping with interfering signals in a wireless communications system. The apparatus and technique rapidly and regularly measures the signals present in the wireless communication system's band of operation. The apparatus and technique then makes this information available to all the transceivers on the network, so that each transceiver has information the interference other transceivers see, and the system can make intelligent decisions about radio transmission parameters to optimize the network performance. |
| US08670476B2 |
Distributed reflector in a microring resonator
A component having a microring resonator and grating, coupled to a waveguide is described. By selection of the grating period, and other parameters such as the grating-waveguide coupling coefficient, an efficient filter may be designed and constructed. The component may be used in passive devices such as add-drop multiplexers or sensors, or in active devices such as lasers. Designs having essentially no response sidelobes, very narrow effective bandwidths, and fast filter roll-offs may permit compact devices to be produced, when compared with typical distributed sampled Bragg grating structures. |
| US08670475B2 |
Catalytic generation of metastable singlet oxygen
Singlet oxygen metastables can be formed. A catalytic coating is formed on an interior surface of a flow reactor, and an oxygen containing species is flowed into the flow reactor to produce singlet oxygen metastables by a chemical reaction in the presence of the catalytic coating. |
| US08670474B2 |
Laser system with wavelength converter
The present invention relates to an apparatus comprising a diode laser (10) providing radiation in a first wavelength interval, a radiation conversion unit (12) having an input and an output, the radiation converter configured to receive the radiation in the first wavelength interval from the diode laser at the input, the radiation conversion unit configured to convert the radiation in the first wavelength interval to radiation in a second wavelength interval and the output configured to output the converted radiation, the second wavelength interval having one end point outside the first wavelength interval. Further, the invention relates to a method of optically pumping a target laser (14) in a laser system, the laser system comprising a laser source providing radiation at a first frequency, the laser source being optically connected to an input of a frequency converter, the frequency converter configured to convert the radiation at the first frequency to a second, different frequency, the target laser arranged in optical communication with an output of the frequency converter, the method comprising the steps of emitting radiation from the laser source, receiving the radiation at the frequency converter, converting the radiation from the first frequency to the second frequency in the frequency converter, and providing the radiation at the second frequency at the target laser so that the target laser is optically pumped. |
| US08670473B2 |
Circuit and method for limiting current to prevent roll-over in laser diodes
The present disclosure relates to an optical power monitoring circuit including an automatic power control (APC) loop and a microcontroller unit (MCU), and a method for monitoring the same. The APC loop comprises a laser diode (LD) and a feedback loop to maintain a laser optical power. The MCU is configured to (i) monitor a bias current using a current sense circuit, (ii) monitor a rate of change of the bias current with time, and (iii) adjust a target power of the APC loop. By monitoring the bias current and the rate of change, and comparing them against thresholds, the target power can be adjusted by the MCU, to prevent roll-over in the laser diode, damage to the laser, and/or a hard failure in the data links that use the laser. |
| US08670471B2 |
Photonic crystal cavities and related devices and methods
Photonic crystal cavities and related devices and methods are described. The described cavities can be used as lasers, photovoltaic sources, and single photon sources. The cavities can be both optically and electrically pumped. A fabrication process of the cavities is also described. |
| US08670469B2 |
Tunable laser
A tunable laser, including: a laser resonant cavity including first and second total reflection mirrors within a laser spectral range; first and second wavelength-adjustable laser gain mediums disposed in the laser resonant cavity; first and second intra-cavity collimating lenses; an acousto-optic tunable filter; a device exciting sound waves in an acousto-optic crystal and including a sound wave energy transducer bonded on a selected surface of the crystal; a radio frequency signal source; an optical phase modulator; an optical etalon disposed between the optical phase modulator and the laser gain medium; a wavelength locker disposed at one of zero-order diffraction optical paths of intra-cavity light; a pigtailed collimator coupling laser output light to an optical fiber; first and second pumping devices exciting the first and second laser gain mediums respectively; an optical phase modulator driver for driving the phase modulator; and a signal control processing circuit. |
| US08670467B2 |
Network synchronized time base timer
A system and method are provided for synchronizing a programmable timer time base and external time signal. The method either accepts or supplies an external time signal (e.g., IEEE 1588) at an external interface, links a synchronized time base to the external time signal, and clocks a channel time base with the synchronized time base. Then, a timer channel can be used to perform programmable timer functions in response to the channel time base. Some programmable timer functions include input capture, output compare, quadrature decoding, pulse measurement, frequency measurement, and pulse width modulation (PWM) functions, in one aspect, accepting the external time signal at the external interface includes detecting a packet with a time value, in another aspect, the method uses the channel to detect an event at a channel external interface, and compares the channel time base counter value with an expected value to modify the synchronized time base. |
| US08670464B2 |
Multi-view video coding/decoding method
A multi-view video coding method includes the following steps: an un-coded group of pictures (GOP) is obtained from an un-coded multi-view video. Wherein, the un-coded GOP includes picture sets of several un-coded views. Several present coding views are selected from the un-coded views according to view levels of the un-coded views. Wherein, picture sets of the present coding views includes several present coding pictures. A target coding picture is selected from the present coding pictures according to view levels of and temporal levels of the present coding pictures. At least a coded reference picture, which is referenced by the target coding picture for prediction, is obtained. The target coding picture is coded according to the coded reference picture. In addition, a multi-view video decoding method is also disclosed. |
| US08670462B2 |
Information processing apparatus, information processing method and information processing program
An information processing apparatus includes a receiving part receiving a packet from a communication line; an arithmetic processing part configured to stop an operation in an energy conservation mode, a filter part configured to allow a response required packet to pass through the filter part; a packet retaining part retaining the packet passing over the filter part; and a power source administrating part activating the arithmetic processing part by supplying electric power when the packet is received by the receiving part, wherein if the packet retaining part retains an incomplete packet at a time of activating the arithmetic processing part, the arithmetic processing part generates a packet information piece associating the incomplete packet and a corresponding complete packet as a list and stores the packet information piece to a list storing part. |
| US08670461B2 |
Apparatus and method of reassembling ethernet data
An Ethernet data reassembly apparatus comprises: a data receiving unit, for receiving the data of a gigabit passive optical network frame; a data reassembly unit, for storing the data of the gigabit passive optical network frame into the corresponding location of a data buffer unit, based on the Ethernet data intermediate variable stored in a data reassembly table unit; a data reassembly table unit, for storing the Ethernet data intermediate variable; and a data buffer unit, for storing the data of the gigabit passive optical network frame received by the data receiving unit, to acquire integrated Ethernet data. A method comprises the following steps: receiving the data of a gigabit passive optical network frame; storing the data of the gigabit passive optical network frame into the corresponding location of a data buffer unit, based on the Ethernet data intermediate variable stored in a data reassembly table unit. According to the present invention, ONU and OLT could perform an interleaving process for any number of data frames. |
| US08670457B2 |
High data rate interface with improved link synchronization
A data Interface for transferring digital data between a host and a client over a communication path using packet structures linked together to form a communication protocol for communicating a pre-selected set of digital control and presentation data. The signal protocol is used by link controllers configured to generate, transmit, and receive packets forming the communications protocol, and to form digital data into one or more types of data packets, with at least one residing in the host device and being coupled to the client through the communications path. The interface provides a cost-effective, low power, bi-directional, high-speed data transfer mechanism over a short-range “serial” type data link, which lends itself to implementation with miniature connectors and thin flexible cables which are especially useful in connecting display elements such as wearable micro-displays to portable computers and wireless communication devices. |
| US08670456B2 |
Method and system for transparently transcoding a multicast stream
A method and apparatus for transparently transforming a multicast stream is provided. The method includes transforming the multicast stream in a content engine. The multicast stream has a first bandwidth. The content engine receives a request for the multicast stream from a multicast receiver with a second bandwidth availability. Thereafter, the content engine transforms the multicast stream to a multicast stream with a third bandwidth. The third bandwidth is less than or equal to the second bandwidth. The transformed multicast stream is sent to the multicast receiver. |
| US08670453B2 |
Isolating network traffic in multi-tenant virtualization environments
Managing data in a server system includes providing a plurality of servers, each having an internal gateway/switch that is accessible from outside the server, providing a plurality of virtual servers on at least some of the servers, where each of the virtual servers is accessible by the internal gateway/switch of the corresponding server, and accessing the data using the internal gateway/switch, where the internal gateway/switch determines which particular one of the virtual servers contain the data and then accesses the particular virtual server to provide the data. Managing data in a server system may also include associating portions of the data to tenants of the server system. Each of the servers may maintain a table that correlates tenants with the virtual servers maintained thereby and the internal gateway/switch may use the table to determine which particular one of the virtual servers contains data for a particular tenant. |
| US08670452B2 |
Wireless adaptor and method for transmitting and receiving message
A method for transmitting and receiving a message is provided. The method includes steps of providing a bridge device having a bridge hardware address and a first end, receiving a first message including a first hardware address, a first protocol address and a second protocol address from the first end, recording the first hardware address and the first protocol address on a table, replacing the first hardware address with the bridge hardware address, transmitting the first message to a second end having a second hardware address corresponding to the second protocol address; transmitting a second message including the first protocol address, the second protocol address, the bridge hardware address, and the second hardware address from the second end to the bridge device, replacing the bridge hardware address with the first hardware address according to the table; and transmitting the second message to the first end. |
| US08670450B2 |
Efficient software-based private VLAN solution for distributed virtual switches
Packet processing logic of a host system's virtualization manager detects packets on the ingress or the egress path to/from a virtual port having three bitmap arrays for processing packets within a virtual local area network (VLAN). The logic checks the VLAN identifier (VID) of the packet to determine, based on an offset position within the corresponding bitmap array, whether the port supports the VLAN. Both the ingress array offset position and egress array offset positions correspond to the value of the VID, and are set within the specific bitmap array during configuration of the VLAN on the port. When the VLAN is supported by the port, the logic enables the packet to be processed by the port. Otherwise, the logic discards the packet. A strip bitmap array indicates when a packet's VID should be removed prior to forwarding the packet on the egress of a port (or destination port). |
| US08670444B2 |
Network system and network apparatus
In a virtual network apparatus, even when a fault occurs on a private line connecting plural physical network apparatuses to communicate a control signal, the redundancy is maintained, and the lower forwarding capability is prevented. In this network system, a control signal for virtualization to be transmitted and received between plural physical network apparatuses is relayed via a unit spanning LA connecting each physical network apparatus and an adjacent network apparatus in the adjacent network apparatus. Thereby, even when a fault occurs in the private line, it is possible to continue to communicate the control signal between the physical network apparatuses and continuously operate the virtual network apparatus. |
| US08670442B2 |
Method for bidirectional data transmission via a packet-oriented network device
A telecommunication system for bidirectional data transmission of a data set between a data transmission device and a data reception device via at least one packet-oriented network device, which includes encapsulation of the data set to enable a connection-oriented data transmission of the data set; connection-oriented transmission of the encapsulated data set by means of at least one mobile telephone from the data transmission device to a base station of a mobile telephone network; evaluation of the data encapsulation protocol in the base station for an unpacking of the data set to enable a packet-oriented data transmission of the data set; and packet-oriented transmission of the data set from the base station to the data reception device. |
| US08670441B2 |
System and method for migrating a large scale batch of customer accounts from one VoIP system to another VoIP system
A system and method in accordance with exemplary embodiments may include receiving account data associated with one or more accounts scheduled to be migrated from one or more first VoIP phone systems to a second VoIP phone system via a network, organizing the one or more accounts based on at least one customer service records and one system log, migrating the one or more accounts into one or more shell accounts provided by the second VoIP phone system, configuring each customer device associated with the one or more accounts to receive data from the second VoIP phone system, and migrating account settings data and account call history data associated with the one or more accounts from the one or more first VoIP phone systems to the second VoIP phone system. |
| US08670439B2 |
Method for accurate distribution of time to a receiver node in an access network
An apparatus comprising a customer node configured to couple to an access node and to receive via a channel from the access node a time of day (TOD) value and a corresponding sample index (SNUM) value, wherein the TOD value and the SNUM value are used to estimate a second time of day (TOD′) value based on a propagation delay of the channel (L-Delay), and wherein the TOD value and the TOD′ value are used to estimate a second SNUM value (SNUM′) based on L-Delay and a plurality of parameters. |
| US08670433B2 |
Systems and methods for allocating and transmitting uplink data block transmissions with piggy-backed ACK/NACK bitmap field
Systems and methods for allocating and transmitting uplink data block transmissions with piggy-backed ACK/NACK bitmap field are provided. In a specific example, a mobile station receives a request for a data block combined with control information (DBCCI). The mobile station responds by transmitting a DBCCI using at least one timeslot corresponding to a timeslot used for the request. At least some of the time, the mobile station sends data blocks in an order different than that would be otherwise used (e.g. block sequence order). |
| US08670432B2 |
Methods and apparatus for coordination of sending reference signals from multiple cells
Methods and apparatus for coordination of sending reference signals in wireless network are disclosed. A network node may select a cell ID based on a measurement of adjacent cells so as to mitigate interference. A network node may communicate information to another network node to control transmitted resources in a protected interval so as to measure channel characteristics. |
| US08670425B1 |
Use of past duration of stay as trigger to scan for wireless coverage
A method, apparatus, and system for causing a mobile wireless device to begin scanning for wireless network coverage. A determination is made, based on one or more past instances of the mobile device being in a particular area, that the mobile device tends to be in the particular area for at least a threshold duration per instance. Further, a determination is made that the mobile device is currently located in the particular area. In response to at least the determination that the mobile device tends to be in the particular area for at least the threshold duration per instance and the determination that the mobile device is currently in the particular area, the mobile device will be made to scan for wireless network coverage, such as coverage of a network that is known exist in the particular area. |
| US08670416B2 |
Segment size determination
A method is provided that includes determining, via data processing circuitry, error rate metrics of data transmissions over a constrained application protocol (CoAP) using a first CoAP segment size. The method further includes determining, via the data processing circuitry, a second CoAP segment size for the data transmissions based at least in part upon the error rate metrics. |
| US08670415B2 |
Apparatus and method for performing handoff in a communication system
A method is provided for performing handoff in a communication system including a serving base station (BS) in communication with a mobile station (MS), at least one neighbor BS using a communication scheme different from a communication scheme of the serving BS, and the MS capable of communicating with the neighbor BS. The method includes compensating a signal strength of one of the serving BS and the neighbor BS, received at the MS, such that handoff decision is possible, and determining whether to perform a handoff of the MS, using the compensated signal strengths. |
| US08670413B2 |
Method for requesting domain transfer and terminal and server thereof
A method, terminal and server for controlling a domain transfer operation, are discussed. According to an embodiment, the method includes determining, by a terminal, whether a session is transferred from a first domain to a second domain, wherein the determining is based on an operator policy and radio conditions, wherein the operator policy is received by the terminal from a network, and wherein the operator policy includes at least one of first information indicating an operator's preferred domain and second information indicating whether to initiate the domain transfer in a short time. |
| US08670411B2 |
Method for realizing single radio voice call continuity and single radio voice call continuity system
A method for realizing a single radio voice call continuity and a single radio voice call continuity system are disclosed. After a UE-1 establishes an IMS session with a remote leg through a PS network, wherein in the IMS session, signaling is anchored to an ICP and media is anchored to an AGW controlled by the ICP, the method is realized as follows: sending a handover request by a control net element of the PS network to an eMSC to request a handover of the IMS session to a CS network access mode; after receiving the handover request, preparing a media link resource by the eMSC for the UE-1 to communicate with the eMSC and sending a call request to the ICP; and controlling the AGW to correlate a media link established by the call request with a remote leg media link of the IMS session by the ICP. The method can effectively solve the problem existing in the prior art that the duration of interruption is too long, and improve user experience. |
| US08670403B2 |
Methods and systems for dynamic spectrum arbitrage
Methods and system are provided for managing and monitoring allocation of RF spectrum resources based on time, space and frequency. A network may be enabled to allocate excess spectrum resources for use by other network providers on a real-time basis. Allocated resources may be transferred from one provider with excess resources to another in need of additional resources based on contractual terms or on a real-time purchase negotiations and settlements. A network may be enabled to monitor the use of allocated resources on real-time basis and off-load or allow additional users depending on the spectrum resources availability. Public safety networks may be enabled to make spectrum resources available to general public by allocating spectrum resources and monitoring the use of those resources. During an emergency, when traffic increases on a public safety network, the public safety networks may off-load bandwidth traffic to make available necessary resources for public safety users. |
| US08670402B2 |
Method and an apparatus for transmitting physical random access channel signal
A method and an apparatus for transmitting a physical random access channel signal are disclosed by in the present invention. The method includes: when transmitting a physical random access channel (PRACH) signal, a terminal carries out pre-compensation for the frequency domain signal according to the estimated frequency spectrum gain of downlink channel, converting it into the time domain signal and transmits it to the base station. In the present invention, by way of measuring the spectral response of the downlink channel and carrying out pre-compensation for the frequency selective fading when transmitting the PRACH signal, using the symmetry of the uplink channel and downlink channel in the TD system, the adverse effect on the PRACH detection due to multipath channel could be effectively eliminated and the detection probability of the PRACH signal and measuring accuracy of transmission delay could be improved. |
| US08670401B2 |
Method of load estimation
In a method and a device for determining or predicting the uplink load based on measurements, including CIR and adjustable parameters, the parameters are adjusted based on measurements of received power. Hereby an improved determination of the uplink load can be obtained. |
| US08670397B2 |
System and method for efficient enhanced multicast broadcast system (E-MBS) configuration message decoding
A base station comprises a transmitter configured to transmit a downlink frame. The downlink frame comprising a first configuration message associated with the configuration of Enhanced-Multicast Broadcast Service (E-MBS). The first configuration message comprises a field with an indicator to indicate a next configuration message to be decoded by a subscriber station. The subscriber station, upon decoding the first configuration message, refrains from decoding subsequent configuration messages that precede the next configuration message to be decoded by the subscriber station in accordance with the indicator. |
| US08670396B2 |
Uplink control channel resource allocation for transmit diversity
Systems and methods for resource allocation for an uplink control channel for a user equipment (UE) using multiple transmit antennas in a wireless communication network are disclosed. A plurality of orthogonal resources for use by the UE on the uplink control channel is selected. Control information is transmitted from the UE on the uplink control channel on the plurality of orthogonal resources with transmit diversity. |
| US08670392B2 |
Method and apparatus for initiating communications on a shared channel in a mobile communication system
A method and apparatus for initiating communications on a shared channel in a mobile communication system are provided. A user equipment transmits an uplink signal for requesting communications on the shared channel to a Node B, and waits for a delay duration without monitoring a downlink after transmitting the uplink signal. When the delay duration has elapsed, the user equipment monitors the downlink during a valid period and determines whether a downlink signal responding to the uplink signal is received in a transmission time interval within the valid period. When the downlink signal is received in the valid period, the user equipment transmits and receives data on the shared channel. |
| US08670391B2 |
Channel allocation method for asynchronous mobile communication system
Disclosed is a channel allocation method for asynchronous mobile communication system for mapping a call between channels equally. The method converts at least a mobile phone connected to a channel having a high loading dose and then connects the mobile phone to a channel having a low loading dose, in case that a difference of a loading dose between channels is greater than a predetermined value after a loading dose of available respective channel is measured in a node B/RNC and a difference of loading doses between available respective channels is calculated in an asynchronous mobile communication system. |
| US08670388B2 |
Dynamic lightweight remote management of hybrid femtocell gateways
Dynamic remote management of consumer premise devices comprising femtocells integrated into broadband gateways is facilitated. A communication network platform is associated with a consumer premise device(s) and can include a remote management component that facilitates dynamic and remote management of consumer premise devices in a wireless communication network. The remote management component monitors and measures desired parameters respectively associated with a consumer premise devices and employs remote controls to remotely adjust parameters based on predetermined optimization criteria. The remote management component calculates channel capacity based on measured channel signal-to-noise ratio to facilitate determining whether to hand off a current cell to another cell, wherein at least one cell is associated with a consumer premise device. The remote management component can generate and store Quality of Service profiles respectively associated with the consumer premise devices to facilitate remote management of the consumer premise devices. |
| US08670387B2 |
WiMAX R6 control architecture
Within an access services network (ASN) providing wireless access services to an access terminal and a base station communicatively coupled to an ASN gateway, a new functional process identified as an “R6 controller” is provided within the framework. The R6 controller includes both a controlling entity process residing and executing within the ASN gateway and an agent entity process residing and executing within the base station. The R6 controller entities monitor the R6 reference point therebetween and may execute a keep-alive procedure for determining the status of the R6 interface. If a problem is detected, interested client applications are notified and further actions (e.g., initiate handover process, notify ATs, etc.) may be taken. Optionally, the R6 controller entities function as gateways enabling centralized processing for messages transmitted between peer instances of other client application processes spanning the base station—ASN gateway pair. |
| US08670386B2 |
Method, system, and device for implementing transmission of backhaul link control channel in relay system
The present invention discloses a method which includes: allocating, by an eNodeB, a dedicated resource region for a relay served by the eNodeB; calculating, by the eNodeB, a control channel of the relay; configuring, by the eNodeB according to the resource region allocated for the relay and the acquired control channel of the relay, the control channel of the relay in the resource region corresponding to the relay; and detecting, by the relay, control information sent by the eNodeB in the corresponding resource region allocated by the eNodeB for the relay. The present invention solves the transmission problem of a backhaul link control channel in an LTE-A relay system, so that a relay can receive control information sent by the eNodeB within a wider scope and that the complexity of blind detection of the relay is decreased. |
| US08670385B2 |
Dynamic allocation of network resources for provisioning services to user devices
A device may receive, from a base station, information that identifies traffic conditions within the base station; and may assign one or more different frequency bands to each of one or more applications being provisioned, by the base station, to one or more user devices based on the information that identifies the traffic conditions within the base station. The device may also generate allocation information that identifies how the different frequency bands are allocated to each of the applications; and transmit, via the base station, the allocation information to the user devices, where transmitting the allocation information allows a user device to identify a frequency band with which to obtain an application. |
| US08670384B2 |
Cell searching system and method
For wireless networks that transmit synchronization signals allowing user equipment to synchronize to cells within the network and transmit reference signals allowing user equipment to determine cell identities, a method and apparatus taught herein advantageously link the synchronization signal sequences to the reference signal sequences according to a defined mapping. The linking simplifies the cell search process by allowing user equipment to determine cell identities based on mapping detected synchronization signal sequences to the corresponding reference signal or to the corresponding subset of reference signals in embodiments where there are more reference signal sequences than synchronization signal sequences. In at least one embodiment, the network is a 3G LTE network and at least the Primary Synchronization Signal (P-SyS) sequences are linked to the Downlink (DL) reference symbol sequences according to a defined mapping, thereby allowing to user equipment to determine cell identities from detected P-SyS sequences. |
| US08670383B2 |
System and method for aggregation and queuing in a wireless network
A technique for improved throughput at an access point (AP) involves when frames are received for transmission by the AP, queuing the frames for a particular station. A system constructed according to the technique may include an aggregation and queuing layer. Station queues may be processed by the aggregation and queuing layer before being given to radio hardware for transmission. In an illustrative embodiment, when frames are received by the aggregation and queuing layer, the packet will be assigned a target delivery time (TDT) and an acceptable delivery time (ADT). The TDT is the “ideal” time to transmit a frame, based on its jitter and throughput requirements. Frames are mapped on to a time axis for transmission by TDT. In an illustrative embodiment, each frame is mapped by priority, so that there are separate maps for voice, video, best effort, and background frames. There will be gaps between frames for transmission that can be used for aggregation. |
| US08670380B2 |
Distributed reception wireless microphone system
An apparatus is provided that includes a plurality of portable wireless transmitter units, a plurality of digital receiver modules that alternate transmitting wireless synchronization pulses and that receive information from the plurality of transmitter units synchronized to the synchronization pulses, a receiver control unit in communication with each of the receiver modules that coordinates transmission of synchronization pulses among the plurality of digital receiver modules in accordance with a predetermined transmission sequence and a system that receives the information from at least some of the microphone transmitter units through the receiver modules and delivers the information exclusively to a geographic area proximate a source of the audio information. |
| US08670378B2 |
Transform domain multi-user detection for femtocell
A transform domain multi-user detection and interference suppression apparatus for femtocell is disclosed. The transform domain multi-user detection and interference suppression apparatus is applied in a telecommunication system including a plurality of user equipments. The transform domain multi-user detection and interference suppression apparatus includes a multi-user signal processing module including an interference suppression unit. The multi-user signal processing module receives a plurality of user signals from the plurality of user equipments. During an interference suppression phase, the interference suppression unit of the multi-user signal processing module focuses on one of the plurality of user signals in the transform domain and reduces the other user signals in the transform domain by using a specific operation method. During an interference cancellation phase, the multi-user signal processing module receives an estimation of the plurality of user signals in the transform domain and reconstructs the received signals according to the estimation. |
| US08670374B2 |
Wireless mesh network with dynamic back off and method of operation
A wireless mesh network with dynamic back off for reduced power consumption is generally described herein. In some embodiments, the wireless mesh network includes a network controller to configure a data frame comprising a sync period followed by at least one data period and a plurality of network nodes configured to operate in at least one of a network-running mode and a sleep/RF quiet mode. The network controller is configured to transmit synchronization messages during a first portion of the sync period and receive upstream requests from the network nodes during a second portion of the sync period. During the sleep/RF quiet mode, the network nodes are configured to wake up periodically during a listening interval for detection of a synchronization message from the network controller, and return to the sleep/RF quiet mode and increase a back-off time between listening intervals for increasingly longer periods when no synchronization message is detected. |
| US08670373B2 |
Elastic access scheme for two-way satellite communication systems
In a satellite communication system, comprising a hub, a satellite and plurality of remote terminals (e.g., VSATs), a method for allocating timeslots over a return channel to VSATs in real time, without a reference to a predefined time-frequency map, for at least the purpose of optimizing return channel utilization. Also presented are a method for dividing a return channel to transmission channels in real time, a method for determining a most suitable timeslot type for a VSAT per allocation period and a tiling algorithm for mapping allocated capacity onto return channel bandwidth. |
| US08670363B2 |
Method and apparatus for sending scheduling information for broadcast and multicast services in a cellular communication system
Techniques for supporting broadcast, multicast, and unicast services in a cellular system are described. A Node B may multiplex data for broadcast and multicast services and data for unicast services on radio resources available for transmission. The Node B may periodically send scheduling information used to determine the radio resources carrying the broadcast and multicast services. In one design, the Node B may time division multiplex the data for the broadcast and multicast services and the data for the unicast services. The scheduling information may convey time unit(s) used for each broadcast or multicast service. In another design, the Node B may map the data for the broadcast and multicast services to time frequency blocks. The scheduling information may (i) convey the time frequency block(s) used for each broadcast or multicast service or (ii) point to control information conveying the time frequency block(s) used for each service. |
| US08670361B2 |
Apparatus and method for control in wireless communication system
The present invention relates to a method and system for controlling an uplink (UL) in a wireless communication system, wherein packet scheduling is performed on the data packet of a mobile station to allocate multiple bursts, the parameters of the mobile station and the multiple bursts are verified, and the parameters are used to determine the MCS (Modulation and Coding Scheme) level and transmission power level for the multiple bursts. |
| US08670359B2 |
Method of controlling data transmission for MBS in broadband wireless access system
The present invention relates to a method of controlling data transmission for a multimedia/broadcast service (MBS) in a broadband wireless access system. In a data transmission control method for a multicast broadcast service (MBS) in a broadband wireless access system, the present invention includes the steps of receiving information for a downlink burst profile suitable for receiving MBS data from at least one mobile subscriber station, selecting a downlink burst profile suitable for transmitting the MBS data using the information for the downlink burst profile, and transmitting the MBS data to the at least one mobile subscriber station using the selected downlink burst profile. |
| US08670358B1 |
Full duplex network radio bridge with low latency and high throughput
A full duplex radio bridge using two transceivers coupled to a first packet network, one for transmitting data toward another radio bridge coupled to a second packet network, and the other for receiving data transmitted from the first packet network toward said second packet network by a transceiver of the other radio bridge. Each radio bridge is coupled to its packet network through one network port whose transmit data path is coupled to one of the transceivers, and whose receive data path is coupled to receive data from the other transceiver. An inner loop and outer loop is used. Management packets are routed to the various transceivers using the inner loop and outer loop by routing and filtering functions.Payload packets are transmitted from one packet network to the other using only the outer loop. |
| US08670354B2 |
Sharing ongoing data session
The present invention discloses a solution for performing a sharing an ongoing data session between a first user and a group of at least one additional user in a telecommunication system. The basic idea of this invention is to provide a network integration node with a shared streaming session logic, replication logic and group membership management functions of a conference node, like for example the “Push to-talk over Cellular (PoC)” application. Using this functionality the conference system is to be included into the ongoing streaming session, shall invite additional members and forward the streaming traffic to them as well. This results into a shared streaming service using unicast communication resources. |
| US08670352B2 |
Link inference in large networks based on incomplete data
A network is partitioned into a set of independent partitions, and the topology of each partition is determined, then merged to form a topology of the entire network. Preferably, the partitioning is hierarchical, wherein the network is partitioned to form individual VLAN partitions, and each of the VLAN partitions is further partitioned based on the nodes that are simply connected to each port of one or more selected root switches within the VLAN partition. Simple connections to each port are efficiently determined based on an aggregate address forwarding table associated with each node. Ancillary information, such as spanning tree or CDP data, may be used to facilitate efficient partitioning and/or to validate inferences that are made with incomplete information. |
| US08670347B2 |
Method, device and system for automatically discovering optical fibre connection within network element
A method, device and system for automatically discovering optical fiber connection within a network element are provided. In the method, a destination board determines whether it is connected with a source single board for the first time according to a triple group message received within a predefined period and sent by the source single board, and if yes, sends a sextuple group message generated based on its triple group message to an ASON, and stores the sextuple group message in a local database; otherwise, it sends the sextuple group message stored in the local database and corresponding to the triple group message, to the ASON when timing is reached; when receiving the sextuple group message and determining that the sextuple group message is not stored locally, the ASON detects validity of a connection corresponding to the sextuple group message, and locally stores the sextuple group message if the connection is valid, otherwise, displays connection error information to a user. |
| US08670345B2 |
Wireless coexistence based on network allocation vector usage
A wireless apparatus includes a wireless transceiver, a WLAN controller and a second controller coupled to the wireless transceiver. The WLAN controller is configured to send/receive packets in accordance with a WLAN protocol, and the second controller is configured to send/receive packets in accordance with a second wireless protocol. The apparatus includes scheduling logic that determines whether a WLAN communication will complete before an end of a WLAN active time period. If the scheduling logic determines that the WLAN communication will not complete before the end of the WLAN active time period, the scheduling logic causes the WLAN controller to transmit a WLAN packet that encodes a NAV value that prevents an access point from using the wireless medium until an end of second time period. The second controller is configured to use the wireless medium during the second time period. |
| US08670341B2 |
Methods and apparatus for uplink macro-diversity in packet-switched cellular networks
A method and apparatus for providing uplink macro-diversity in packet-switched networks that allows packets and/or portions of packets, e.g., frames, to be selectively sent from an end node, e.g., wireless communication device or mobile terminal, over a set of multiple communication connections, e.g., physical-layer or link-layer connections, to one or more access nodes, e.g., base stations. Uplink macro-diversity is achieved in part through intelligent selective forwarding over multiple communication connections, where the forwarding decision is controlled by the end node based on a variety of factors, e.g., physical-layer channel conditions and/or higher layer policy. The forwarding decision is executed on a rapid timescale, e.g., on a per packet basis, to adapt to the dynamically varying conditions of the set of communication connections. |
| US08670339B2 |
Implicit reject response
A wireless communication network having received-priority access requests on an access channel issues an implicit reject response on a grant channel, such as a flag or other value embedded in an explicit access grant or explicit access reject response. The implicit reject response applies to some or all outstanding low-priority access requests. At the expiration of a terminal's grant channel monitoring window, if it has detected an applicable implicit reject response but not an explicit response, the terminal will refrain from transmitting another access request for a predetermined or configurable duration. The implicit reject response may comprise a flag, or a value that implicitly rejects only a fraction of the outstanding low-priority access requests. The implicit reject response may comprise a duration that the terminal must wait prior to transmitting another access request, and may direct the terminal to directly monitor the grant channel without transmitting a subsequent access request. |
| US08670337B2 |
Radio communication apparatus, radio communication method, communication control apparatus, and program
There is provided a radio communication apparatus including a detection unit to detect first redundant information indicating redundancy at a physical/MAC layer of radio communication, a communication control unit to determine a second redundancy at an upper layer from the layer based on the first redundant information detected by the detection unit, a packetizing unit to generate a data packet by packetizing transmission data, and a redundant encoding unit to add a redundant packet to the data packet generated by the packetizing unit based on the second redundancy determined by the communication control unit. |
| US08670336B2 |
Measuring call quality
Provided is a method, computer program product, and apparatus for estimating the quality of a call in which a first user terminal will comprise an end point. The method comprises establishing an end-to-end connection between a first user terminal and a node, which end-to-end connection is via an access point of a network by which the first user terminal is connected to the network; displaying information indicative of an expected quality of a call in which the first user terminal will comprise an end point, in dependence on information indicative of the quality of the end-to-end connection; and providing call initiation means for enabling a user to then selectively establish a call between the first user terminal and a callee. Also provided is a method, computer program product, and apparatus for estimating the quality of a call between a first user terminal and a potential callee. |
| US08670334B2 |
Click quality classification and delivery
In one embodiment, a method includes receiving a packet flow associated with a click-through from an end user node destined for an advertiser server; extracting information from the packet flow; analyzing the extracted information to determine one or more characteristics of the packet flow; and classifying the packet flow based on the determined one or more characteristics; modifying the packet flow to include classification information to provide classification information indicating a quality level of the click-through. The packet flow may include a hypertext transfer protocol GET request. Modifying the packet flow may include adding a tag with classification information that indicates a likelihood of fraudulent click behavior associated with the packet flow. |
| US08670327B2 |
Relay device
A relay device includes a switch for switching a combination of an input for receiving traffic data and an output for sending the traffic data; a congestion information processing section for obtaining congestion information indicating a degree of congestion of each of a plurality of traffics from an adjacent relay device, and congestion information of each traffic in the relay device; a congestion information comparison section for finding information on a congestion level which quantitatively indicates difficulty of flowing of each traffic on a transmission route based on the congestion information obtained from the adjacent relay device and the congestion information of the relay device; a transmission scheduling adjustment section for assigning a transmission band of a bus to each traffic based on the congestion level; and a switch assignment section for shifting the switch based on a result of the assignment of the transmission band of the bus. |
| US08670325B1 |
System and method for providing route information
A system and method changes a rate at which routing information is sent to increase it upon the detection of one or more events, maintaining the then current rate for an amount of time, or dropping it, otherwise. |
| US08670324B2 |
Fair weighted network congestion avoidance
Systems and methods which provide network congestion avoidance implementing a fairness scheme in which a cost function is used are shown. Transmission cost, for use in network congestion avoidance packet dropping decisions, may be determined from an amount of air time needed to transmit a data packet, a transmission data rate, a size of a packet, an amount of spectral energy or transmit power associated with transmission, etc. A packet dropping probability for a particular packet is preferably determined as a function of the current flow cost and average flow cost to provide fair allocation of network communications resources. Embodiments additionally implement buffer based packet dropping probability calculation in order to provide a robust network congestion avoidance technique. Cost based packet dropping probability calculation and buffer based packet dropping probability calculation implemented according to embodiments are adapted to accommodate quality of service applications. |
| US08670323B1 |
Method and apparatus for monitoring of access network status in communication networks
A method and apparatus for enabling a tool to collect alerting information of network disruptions across access networks external to a packet network, e.g., a VoIP network, is disclosed. By monitoring the status of external access networks, service disruptions in the VoIP network that can be potentially caused by such access networks can be anticipated, prevented, diagnosed and/or resolved rapidly. |
| US08670313B2 |
System and method for adjusting the window size of a TCP packet through network elements
A system for adjusting the window size of a TCP packet on a packet network including a sending network element in communication with a receiving network element for transmitting and receiving data packets between the sending network element and the receiving network element on the packet network, wherein at least one of the sending network element and the receiving network element is configured to determine network performance information of the packet network; and adjust the window size of the TCP packet based on the network performance information. A method for adjusting the window size of a TCP packet on a packet network is also included. |
| US08670312B2 |
Method, computer program product, and apparatus for providing a distributed router architecture
An apparatus for providing distributed router architecture includes a processing element and a resource availability element. The processing element may be configured to receive indications of receipt of data associated with a service for routing to a destination address. The resource availability element may be in communication with the processing element and may be configured to monitor resource usage over a plurality of distributed resource planes. The processing element may be further configured to allocate a resource associated with routing the data based on the monitored resource usage. |
| US08670311B2 |
Monitoring management apparatus, monitoring management method, and device recording monitoring management program
A monitoring management apparatus may include a storage unit that stores connection information indicating a connection state of the wireless device connected to the communication system, a display unit that displays the wireless device connected to the communication system based on the connection information stored in the storage unit, an input unit that receives an instruction related to the wireless device displayed on the display unit, and a control unit that performs control of temporarily interrupting communication of a wireless device, other than a wireless device satisfying conditions set in advance, with reference to the connection information stored in the storage unit when a simultaneous interruption instruction to simultaneously interrupt communication of a wireless device is input to the input unit. |
| US08670309B2 |
Method and apparatus for preventing activation of a congestion control process
The invention comprises a method and apparatus that prevents the activation of a congestion controlling process that would otherwise be activated in response any packet loss condition. The congestion controlling process is inhibited when a congestion parameter associated indicates that the packet loss condition is not caused by congestion. |
| US08670308B2 |
Meters with multiple network interfaces
An energy meter system includes an energy meter with metering circuitry that is enabled to collect metrology data relating to energy usage. Communications circuitry in the energy meter is configured to selectively communicate the metrology data to a head end server over an advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) network and a home area network (HAN). |
| US08670301B2 |
Double ring network system and communication control method thereof, and transmission station, and program for transmission stations
A double ring network system configured with two or more transmission stations each including a pair of bi-directionally communicative communication ports, including any adjacent two transmission stations as terminal stations, and any transmission station as a base, as mutually connected in a ring form by communication ports through a transmission line, for intercommunications between transmission stations, in which the transmission stations are each adapted to determine whether or not frame signals are received from adjacent transmission stations, transmit route identifying frame signals for identification of routes to adjacent transmission stations, when having failed in reception, and set own station as a terminal station substituting for a current terminal station, when having received no responses to the route identifying frames from adjacent transmission stations, so they are kept from arriving at ring-like connected subsequent transmission stations. |
| US08670299B1 |
Enhanced service status detection and fault isolation within layer two networks
An example method includes monitoring a layer two network with a first network device that operates within the network. The method also includes discovering a second network device that operates within the network by receiving an extended continuity check message (CCM) transmitted from the second network device. The extended CCM transmitted from the second network device indicates to other network devices that a service instance is available on the second network device, and includes an indication of one or more network devices from which the second network device has received CCMs for the service instance. The method further includes determining that bidirectional connectivity exists between the first network device and the second network device when the indication includes the first network device as one of the network devices from which the second network device has received CCMs for the service instance. |
| US08670298B2 |
Method, system and apparatus for signal generation and message transmission in broadband wireless communications
Method for signal generation in broadband wireless communications, comprises: A. modulating, segmenting and serial-parallel converting the signal data to be transmitted, then computing DFT of the serial-parallel converted data so as to transfer them to frequency domain; B. performing block unit modulating processing and block repeat modulating processing on the frequency domain data, then mapping the block units to assigned time-frequency positions; C. computing IFFT of the mapped block units, then adding them to the cycle prefix, thus the random sequences in time domain are generated. Apparatus for signal generation, Method and system for message transmission in broadband wireless communications are also disclosed. The problem of resource allocation and scheduling, and problem of interference coordination and control are solved, the throughput and performance of communication system are greatly improved. |
| US08670297B2 |
Apparatus and method for allocating code resources to uplink ACK/NACK channels in a cellular wireless communication system
A method and apparatus are provided for allocating code resources to ACK/NACK channel indexes, when UEs need ACK/NACK transmission in a wireless communication system in which a predetermined number of orthogonal cover Walsh codes is selected from among available orthogonal cover Walsh codes, at least one subset is formed, having the selected orthogonal cover Walsh codes arranged in an ascending order of cross interference, subsets are selected for use in first and second slots of a subframe, and the orthogonal cover Walsh codes of the subset selected for each slot and ZC sequence cyclic shift values are allocated to the ACK/NACK channel indexes. |
| US08670296B2 |
Optical information recording medium and optical information recording method
An optical information recording medium includes: a recording layer 12 comprising a multi-photon absorption compound and a one-photon absorption compound; and a supporting member (base layer 11) configured to support the recording layer 12. In this optical information recording medium, absorption of multiple photons by the multi-photon absorption compound and absorption of one photon by the one-photon absorption compound cause a void to be generated in the recording layer, whereby information is recordable by modulation based on a presence or absence of a void. |
| US08670295B1 |
Method and system for optically coupling a laser with a transducer in an energy assisted magnetic recording disk drive
A method and system for providing an energy assisted magnetic recording (EAMR) transducer coupled with a laser. The EAMR transducer has an air-bearing surface (ABS) configured to reside in proximity to a media during use. The EAMR transducer includes a write pole, at least one coil, a waveguide and an output device. The write pole is configured to write to a region of the media. The at least one coil is for energizing the write pole. The waveguide has an input optically coupled to the laser and configured to direct energy from the laser toward the ABS for heating the region of the media. The output device is optically coupled to the waveguide. The output device coupling out a portion of the energy not coupled to the media. |
| US08670294B1 |
Systems and methods for increasing media absorption efficiency using interferometric waveguides
Systems and methods for increasing media absorption efficiency using interferometric waveguides in information storage devices are described. One such system for an interferometric waveguide assembly includes a light source, a first waveguide arm and a second waveguide arm, a splitter configured to receive light from the light source and to split the light into the first waveguide arm and the second waveguide arm, and a near field transducer (NFT) configured to receive the light from the first waveguide arm and the second waveguide arm, where the first waveguide arm and the second waveguide arm converge to form a preselected angle at a junction about opposite the splitter, and where the first waveguide arm and the second waveguide arm are configured to induce a preselected phase difference in the light arriving at the NFT. |
| US08670293B2 |
Broadband sound source for long distance underwater sound propagation
The systems described include a light-weight, low frequency (200 Hz-1000 Hz), broadband underwater sound sources that comprise an inner resonator tube with thin walls tuned to a certain frequency surrounded by a shorter, larger-diameter, lower frequency tuned outer resonator tube that has an acoustic source suspended off-center inside the inner resonator tube. |
| US08670292B2 |
Electromagnetic linear actuators for marine acoustic vibratory sources
Disclosed are electromagnetic linear actuators used in acoustic vibratory sources for marine seismic surveying. An embodiment discloses a linear actuator for acoustic sources, comprising: magnetic circuitry comprising a gap; and a coil assembly comprising: a drive coil, wherein at least a first portion of the drive coil is configured to be moved in a linear path in the gap; a pair of ferromagnetic coil guides positioned on either side of the linear path; a first ferromagnetic extension extending laterally from the first portion of the drive coil; and a transmission element coupled to a top side of the first portion of the drive coil. Embodiments also disclose acoustic vibratory sources, marine seismic survey systems, and methods of marine seismic surveying. |
| US08670288B2 |
Velocity model for well time-depth conversion
Systems and methods create a velocity model for well time-depth conversion. In one implementation, a system optimizes a time-depth relationship applied to data points from a single well to estimate coefficients for a velocity function that models the data points. The system optimizes by reducing the influence of outlier data points, for example, by weighting each data point to decrease the influence of those far from the velocity function. The system also reduces the influence of top and bottom horizons of geological layers by applying data driven techniques that estimate the velocity function without undue dependence on the boundary conditions. The system can optimize estimation of a rate of increase in velocity to enable the velocity function to go through a data point on each top horizon. The system may also estimate each base horizon from trends in the data points and adjust the velocity function to go through a data point on each base horizon. |
| US08670284B2 |
Semiconductor device, control method thereof and data processing system
Disclosed herein is a semiconductor device comprising a global bit line, a first local bit line coupled to normal memory cells, a second local bit line coupled to redundant memory cells first and second hierarchical switches, a precharge circuit precharging the global bit line, a redundancy determination circuit determining whether or not an accessed address matches a defective address, and a control circuit. In a standby state, the global bit line and the second local bit line are precharged through the second hierarchical switch. In an active state, the first local bit line is precharged through the first hierarchical switch, subsequently when the redundancy determination circuit determines that the addresses do not match, the second hierarchical switch is inactivated to access the normal memory cells, and when the redundancy determination circuit determines that the addresses match each other, the first hierarchical switch is inactivated to access the redundant memory cells. |
| US08670283B2 |
Controller to detect malfunctioning address of memory device
A controller including a non-volatile memory to store a repair address, and a memory control unit operatively coupled with the non-volatile memory. The memory control unit comprising a memory test function configured to detect a malfunctioning address of primary data storage elements within a memory device. The memory device being another semiconductor device separate from the controller. The memory test function configured to store the repair address in the non-volatile memory, the repair address indicating the malfunctioning address of the primary data storage element. |
| US08670280B2 |
Charge pump circuit, nonvolatile memory, data processing apparatus, and microcomputer application system
Improvement technology of a charge pump circuit is provided for avoiding device destruction due to electrification of an intermediate node of plural capacitors coupled in series to form one step-up capacitor, and avoiding reduction of pump efficiency due to leakage current which flows through a leakage path of the intermediate node concerned. A charge pump circuit includes a step-up capacitor configured by a first capacitance and a second capacitance coupled in series, a capacitance driver, and a protection circuit. The protection circuit is set at a conductive state and discharges a stored charge at the series coupling node of the first capacitance and the second capacitance, when the step-up voltage is not generated, and the protection circuit is maintained in a non-conductive state, when the step-up voltage is generated. Accordingly, relaxation of the withstand voltage of the step-up capacitor is achieved, and reduction of the pump efficiency is avoided. |
| US08670275B2 |
Memory with sub-blocks
The apparatuses and methods described herein may comprise a memory array formed on a semiconductor substrate and including a plurality of cells associated with a plurality of word lines. The memory array may comprise a plurality of sub-blocks including a first sub-block and a second sub-block. Each sub-block may comprise a memory cell portion of the plurality of memory cells associated with a corresponding word line portion of the plurality of word lines. The memory cell portions in the first and second sub-blocks may be independently addressable with respect to each other such that a second operation can be performed on at least one memory cell of the memory cell portion of the second sub-block responsive to suspending a first operation directed to at least one memory cell of the memory cell portion of the first sub-block. |
| US08670272B2 |
Memory with weighted multi-page read
A memory device is described that provides increased output data to help evaluate data errors from bit line coupling and floating gate coupling during a read operation. Multiple rows, or pages, of data are read to allow an internal or external decoder to evaluate memory cell data. |
| US08670271B2 |
Magnetic stack having assist layers
A magnetic tunnel junction having a ferromagnetic free layer and a ferromagnetic pinned reference layer, each having an out-of-plane magnetic anisotropy and an out-of-plane magnetization orientation, the ferromagnetic free layer switchable by spin torque. The magnetic tunnel junction includes a ferromagnetic assist layer proximate the free layer, the assist layer having a low magnetic anisotropy less than 700 Oe and positioned to apply a magnetic field on the free layer. |
| US08670267B2 |
Data storage methods and devices
A data storage method includes writing data to a ferromagnetic shape-memory material in its ferromagnetic state, the material exhibiting more than two stable states. A data storage device includes a non-volatile memory element containing a ferromagnetic shape-memory alloy in a martensite state, the shape-memory alloy being ferromagnetic in a plurality of stable states of the memory element. |
| US08670264B1 |
Multi-port magnetic random access memory (MRAM)
A memory array is organized into rows and columns of resistive elements and is disclosed to include a resistive element to be read or to be written thereto. Further, a first access transistor is coupled to the resistive element and to a first source line and a second access transistor is coupled to the resistive element and to a second source line, the resistive element being coupled at one end to the first and second access transistors and at an opposite end to a bit line. The memory array further has other resistive elements that are each coupled to the bit line. The resistive element is written to while one or more of the other resistive elements are being read. |
| US08670256B2 |
Controller apparatus for controlling a multiphase multilevel voltage source inverter and a method thereof
The present invention provides an apparatus for controlling a multiphase multilevel voltage source inverter. The apparatus includes a signal-generating unit and a converter. The signal-generating unit responds to an input signal to produce a switching strategy control signal and a duration timing control signal corresponding to the switching strategy control signal. The converting unit responds to the switching strategy control signal and the duration timing control signal to produce a switching signal. The voltage source inverter responds to the switching signal to generate a multiphase-and-multilevel AC voltage output. |
| US08670254B2 |
Grid-tied power conversion circuits and related techniques
Circuit topologies and control methods for a power converter and are described. |
| US08670253B2 |
Converter protecting components against overvoltages
A converter includes a converter bridge (101) adapted to transfer electrical energy between the AC terminal (102) and the DC terminal (103) of the converter. The converter also includes electrical paths bypassing the converter bridge for conducting overvoltage transients occurring in the AC terminal around the converter bridge to the DC terminal. Each electrical path includes a unidirectionally conductive semiconductor component (104a, 104b, 104c), such as a diode, and a voltage-limiting component (105) for which the ratio of voltage change to current change is small when the voltage of the voltage-limiting component is greater than a predetermined threshold voltage. Because of the overvoltage protection thus achieved, AC chokes can be omitted from the AC terminal or at least they can be designed smaller, reducing the load-dependent voltage drop of the DC terminal. |
| US08670251B2 |
Regulating apparatus with soft-start and fast-shutdown function
A regulating apparatus with soft-start and fast-shutdown function is applied to a voltage-supplying apparatus. The regulating apparatus includes a soft-start and fast-shutdown circuit, a regulating circuit, and a ground circuit. When voltages are supplied from the voltage-supplying apparatus to the soft-start and fast-shutdown circuit, the regulating circuit, and the ground circuit, the ground circuit is connected to ground, so that the starting time of the regulating circuit is delayed by the soft-start and fast-shutdown circuit. When voltages are not supplied from the voltage-supplying apparatus to the soft-start and fast-shutdown circuit, the regulating circuit, and the ground circuit, the ground circuit is not connected to ground, so that the regulating circuit is shut down fast by the soft-start and fast-shutdown circuit. |
| US08670250B2 |
Common mode noise reduction apparatus and method
An embodiment common mode noise reduction apparatus comprises a common mode choke, a balance inductor, a first capacitor and a second capacitor. The common mode choke is placed between an input dc source and a primary side network of an isolated power converter. The balance inductor is coupled between an upper terminal of a primary winding of the isolated power converter and a negative terminal of the input dc source. The first capacitor is coupled between the upper terminal of a primary side of a transformer and an upper terminal of a secondary side of the transformer of the isolated power converter. The second capacitor is coupled between a lower terminal of the primary side of the transformer and a lower terminal of the secondary side of the transformer of the isolated power converter. |
| US08670245B2 |
Communication circuit for driving a plurality of devices
A system and method is provided for transmitting a signal to a plurality of slave devices (e.g., memory devices, etc.) via a communication circuit having a plurality of segments that are substantially equal in length and/or impedance. Specifically, according to one embodiment of the invention, an electronic system includes a processor, a plurality of memory devices, and a communication circuit (i.e., a bus) having a central node and a plurality of segments. Specifically, the plurality of segments are used to connect the plurality of devices (e.g., the processor, the plurality of memory devices) to the central node. For example, the processor is connected to the central node via a primary segment, the first memory device (M0) is connected to the central node via a first segment, etc. In one embodiment of the invention, the plurality of segments are substantially equal in length. In other words, the central node is substantially electrically-equidistant from each memory device. In another embodiment of the invention, the plurality of segments have substantially equal impedances. By arranging the plurality of memory devices in this manner (e.g., substantially electrically-equidistant from the central node, etc.), a well behaved signal can be received at each memory device. |
| US08670242B2 |
Data storage devices
A data storage device comprising a card-shaped body, a memory within the card-shaped body, and a connector for connecting the memory to a personal computer. The card-shaped body comprises a swipable portion with a magnetic stripe arranged to be read by a magnetic stripe card reader. The card-shaped body can comprise a main portion with a recess and a connector portion comprising the memory and connector. In that case, the connector portion is hingably mounted on the main portion to be rotatable between a closed position in which the connector portion is located within the recess, and an open position in which the connector of the connector portion is located outside of the recess so that it can be used to connect the memory to a personal computer. |
| US08670240B2 |
Board housing case for vehicle-mounted electronic device
A circuit board is hermetically-sealed and housed in a steel case that is composed of a metal base and a metal cover, the cover disposed opposite to a first board surface has a tall flat portion disposed opposite to a connector housing and a short flat portion disposed opposite to a heating component, and the heat generated from the heating component is directly transferred to a heat transfer base portion of the base via a heat transfer mechanism and a heat transfer filling material. Surface finishing in which the coefficients of heat radiation are mutually 0.7 to 1.0 is applied to the surface of the heating component and the opposite inner surface of the cover, and radiation and heat transfer are efficiently performed to the short flat portion of the cover. |
| US08670239B2 |
Heat-release configuration, bracket for supporting heat-release plate and method of assembling heat-release configuration
A heat-release configuration includes a printed board on which a semiconductor component is mounted, a heat-release plate which is mounted on the semiconductor component, and configured to diffuse heat generated by the semiconductor component; and a supporting clamp which is mounted on the heat-release plate, and configured to fix the heat-release plate to the printed board via a hole provided in the printed board, the supporting clamp including a sectional L-shape in a horizontal direction having two flat surfaces substantially orthogonal to each other, the supporting clamp having on a lower side of each of the flat surfaces a leading end portion which is inserted into the hole of the printed board and a locking claw which is formed in the leading end portion and projects outside the L-shape. |
| US08670238B2 |
Guide rail system and a method for providing high-density mounting of optical communications modules
A guide rail system is provided that allows multiple optical communications modules to be mounted in close proximity to one another on a host circuit board. A first portion of the guide rail system is secured to a bottom surface of the host circuit board at locations on the bottom surface of the circuit board adjacent an opening formed in the circuit board. A second portion of the guide rail system is disposed on bottom surfaces of the optical communications modules. The first portion includes one or more pairs of rails and the second portion includes one or more guide blocks configured to slidingly engage the rails. The opening formed in the circuit board allows the rails to be accessed and also allows heat from the module to be dissipated down into the first portion and then into a heat dissipation structure secured to the first portion. |
| US08670237B2 |
Power conversion apparatus
In a power conversion apparatus including a rectifying module mounted with a power conversion device, an inverter module, and a direct-current reactor, a rectifying module and an inverter module 5B are mounted on a base section of a cooling fin, a direct-current reactor (DCL) is arranged in a lower layer of a vane section attached to the lower surface of the base section of the cooling fin 3A, an air gap section is provided in the cooling fin 3A, and a terminal block for obtaining electrical connection between the rectifying module and the inverter module and the direct-current reactor (DCL) is arranged making use of a space of the air gap section. |
| US08670236B2 |
Cage assembly for receiving a pluggable module
A cage assembly is provided for receiving a pluggable module. The cage assembly includes a cage having a front end, a mounting side, and an internal compartment. The front end is open to the internal compartment of the cage. The internal compartment is configured to receive the pluggable module therein through the front end. A heat sink is mounted to the mounting side of the cage. The heat sink has a module side that is configured to thermally communicate with the pluggable module. An electromagnetic interference (EMI) gasket extends along at least a portion of an interface between the mounting side of the cage and the module side of the heat sink. |
| US08670235B2 |
Removal of vapor and ultrafine particles from printing device
A printing apparatus comprises a paper path adjacent a media supply. The paper path moves printing media from the media supply through the printing apparatus. Also, a marking engine is positioned adjacent the paper path, and the paper path supplies the printing media to said marking engine. The marking engine prints marking material on the printing media in a printing process, and the printing process generates vapors and ultrafine particles. The printing apparatus includes ducting adjacent the paper path and the marking engine. A fan is positioned within the ducting. The fan moves the vapors and ultrafine particles from around the paper path and the marking engine into the ducting. Further, at least one condensation unit is located within the ducting. The condensation unit is maintained at a temperature sufficient to condense and collect the vapors and ultrafine particles. The condensation unit comprises a base and poles extending from the base, the poles (which can comprise rods, pins, carbon nanotubes, etc.) are sized to maximize condensation and collection of the vapors and ultrafine particles. |
| US08670233B2 |
Handle module and electronic device having the handle module
A handle module mounted in a case of an electronic device and including a handle-link assembly and a slide mechanism. The handle-link assembly includes a handle body having a gripping section and a first pivot connection portion formed thereon, and a slide link having a link body unit and a second pivot connection portion formed thereon. The second pivot connection portion is pivotable with the first pivot connection portion. The slide mechanism includes a slide groove unit disposed in the link body unit or the case, and a slide axle unit disposed slidably in the link body unit or the case, and that is slidably extended into the slide groove unit. The handle-link assembly may be moved between a folded state, where the slide link is received in the case, and an unfolded state, where the slide link is extended out of the case. |
| US08670229B2 |
Handheld electronic device
A handheld electronic device includes a first body, a second body stacked with the first body, a first plate between the first and second body and fixed to the first body, a second plate between the first plate and second body and fixed to the second body, a first locating structure, and a second locating structure. The first plate includes a sliding slot and a rib transversely disposed in the sliding slot and extended along the sliding slot. An edge of the second plate includes a sliding block clamped on the rib, so the second plate can move along the sliding slot. The first locating structure is disposed on the first plate and located on a moving path of the second plate. The second locating member is disposed on the sliding block, and adapted to interfere with the first locating structure on a locking position of the moving path. |
| US08670228B2 |
Mounting adapter and information processing apparatus
A mounting adapter capable of reducing manufacturing cost includes: an HDD tray to which a hard disk drive is fixed; an HDD holder fixed to a housing and receiving the HDD tray inserted from a Y-axis direction; and a connector board so mounted to the holder as to be movable in a plane perpendicular to the Y-axis direction, and provided with a connector with which an HDD connector is connected. The suitable mounting adapter enables the HDD connector and the connector of the connector board to be engaged optimally even though the central axes of the HDD connector and the connector of the connector board are not aligned. |
| US08670225B2 |
Data logging device for supply chain management
A portable electronic data logging device for tracking information in a supply chain comprises electronics, a tethered communication interface and a housing. The electronics sense an environmental input and store data relating to the environmental input over a timescale. The tethered communication interface permits electronic communication of the data from the electronics to an external computer system. The housing encloses the electronics and includes an electronics compartment and an outer casing. The electronics compartment stores the electronics and includes an opening to permit the tethered communications interface to extend from the electronics compartment. The outer casing has a perimeter extending at least partially beyond the electronics compartment to form a channel into which the tethered communication interface can be stowed such that the tethered communication interface does not extend beyond an outer perimeter of the outer casing when not in use. |
| US08670222B2 |
Electronic device with automatic mode switching
An electronic device for predicting or anticipating a user's operational desires. The electronic device is ready to perform the anticipated function without input from the user by using sensors to sense environmental attributes. The sensors can include an ambient light sensor, a force sensor, a temperature sensor, an ambient noise sensor, and a motion sensor. The electronic device also includes a control mechanism for switching between modes for the device. |
| US08670221B2 |
Terminal block for surge protection having integral disconnect
A terminal block is disclosed that integrates a surge protection base, a disconnect and connection points to provide a Kelvin connection in which a surge protection element is in electrical communication with the ground and the connection points for incoming and outgoing wires. The terminal block includes a terminal body having a terminal body housing, a plurality of conductive elements arranged within the terminal body to create a continuous electrical path therethrough and a disconnect switch integral the terminal body, the switch arranged to open the continuous electrical path and expose a terminal. The terminal body is configured to receive a surge protection element and the surge protection element, when received in the terminal body, forms a portion of the continuous electrical path. |
| US08670219B2 |
High-voltage devices with integrated over-voltage protection and associated methods
The present technology discloses a high-voltage device comprising a high-voltage transistor and an integrated over-voltage protection circuit. The over-voltage protection circuit monitors a voltage across the high-voltage transistor to detect an over-voltage condition of the high-voltage transistor, and turns the high-voltage transistor ON when the over-voltage condition is detected. Thus, once the high-voltage transistor is in over-voltage condition, the high-voltage transistor is turned ON and can dissipate the power from the over-voltage event through its channel. |
| US08670216B1 |
Current-perpendicular-to-the-plane (CPP) magnetoresistive sensor with an exchange-coupled reference layer having shape anisotropy
A current-perpendicular-to-the-plane (CPP) magnetoresistive (MR) sensor has a reference layer formed as an exchange-coupled structure. The exchange-coupled structure includes a patterned layer formed of alternating stripes of ferromagnetic stripes and nonmagnetic stripes, and a continuous unpatterned ferromagnetic layer in contact with and exchange-coupled to the ferromagnetic stripes of the patterned layer. The ferromagnetic stripes have a length-to-width aspect ratio of at least 2, which results in increased uniaxial anisotropy of the exchange-coupled ferromagnetic layer. |
| US08670210B2 |
Magnetic writer having multiple gaps with more uniform magnetic fields across the gaps
A magnetic device according to one embodiment includes a source of flux; a magnetic pole coupled to the source of flux, the magnetic pole having two or more gaps; and a low reluctance path positioned towards at least one of the gaps and not positioned towards at least one other of the gaps for affecting a magnetic field formed at the at least one of the gaps when the source of flux is generating flux. Other disclosed embodiments include devices having coil turns with a non-uniform placement in the magnetic yoke for altering a magnetic field formed at the at least one of the gaps during writing. In further embodiments, a geometry of the magnetic pole near or at one of the gaps is different than a geometry of the magnetic pole near or at another of the gaps to help equalize fields formed at the gaps when the source of flux is generating flux. |
| US08670207B2 |
Servo pattern compatible with planarization constraints of patterned media and use of a single master template
Embodiments described herein provide for robust servo patterns that comply with planarization constraints and also allow use of a single master template for manufacture of both the front and back of a magnetic disk. Planarization constraints are met because only a portion of servo data is hard patterned on the magnetic disk and the hard patterned servo data areas comply with planarization constraints. The servo pattern has two symmetrical servo write assist patterns, one on each side of a central burst pattern. The servo sync, SAM, track-ID, sector-ID, and/or RRO values can be written magnetically by the write head onto these servo write assist patterns after the completion of the planarization process. The symmetric design of the servo pattern allows both a left-to-right and a right-to-left servo write and read back, thereby enabling use of a single master template in magnetic disk manufacture. |
| US08670205B1 |
Hybrid drive changing power mode of disk channel when frequency of write data exceeds a threshold
A hybrid drive is disclosed comprising a disk channel including a head actuated over a disk, the disk comprising a plurality of data sectors, and a non-volatile semiconductor memory (NVSM) comprising a plurality of memory segments. Write commands are received from a host, wherein the write commands comprise write data. When a frequency of the write data exceeds a threshold, an operating mode of the disk channel is changed to change a power consumption rate of the disk channel. |
| US08670201B2 |
Magnetic recording device
In a magnetic recording device adopting a microwave assisted recording method, a microwave frequency on a positive polarity side and a microwave frequency on a negative polarity side are adjusted to be optimal.The magnetic recording device of the invention supplies to a magnetic head a write current of which a current waveform on the positive polarity side and a current waveform on the negative polarity side are asymmetric. |
| US08670198B1 |
Data sequence detection in band-limited channels based on equalization interpolation
A method for detecting a data sequence includes generating a first sample stream, which is a time-sequenced digital signal associated with samples of an analog signal. The first sample stream is interpolated to generate a second sample stream with a different phase. The first sample stream is equalized to generate a first equalized sample stream. The second sample stream is equalized to generate a second equalized sample stream. The first and second equalized sample streams are processed to estimate the second equalized sample stream. The first equalized sample stream is filtered to generate a first set of noise sample streams. The estimated second equalized sample stream is filtered to generate a second set of noise sample streams. The first set and the second set of noise sample streams are diversity combined to generate a set of combined noise sample streams. A data sequence is detected using the combined noise sample streams. |
| US08670192B2 |
Imaging lens and imaging apparatus
An imaging lens consists of a negative first lens having a concave object-side surface, a positive second lens, a negative third lens, a positive fourth lens having a convex object-side surface, and a positive fifth lens, which are in this order from an object side. A stop is arranged between an image-side surface of the first lens and an object-side surface of the third lens. When the focal length of an entire system is f, and the focal length of the first lens is f1, and the focal length of the second lens is f2, the following formula is satisfied: −1.30 |
| US08670191B2 |
Imaging lens system
This invention provides an imaging lens system including, in order from an object side to an image side: a first lens with positive refractive power having a convex object-side surface; a second lens with negative refractive power; a third lens having a concave image-side surface; a fourth lens with positive refractive power; a fifth lens with negative refractive power having a concave image-side surface, at least one surface thereof having at least one inflection point; and an aperture stop disposed between an imaged object and the third lens. The on-axis spacing between the first lens and second lens is T12, the focal length of the imaging lens system is f, and they satisfy the relation: 0.5<(T12/f)×100<15. |
| US08670190B2 |
Imaging lens system
This invention provides an imaging lens system including, in order from an object side to an image side: a first lens with positive refractive power having a convex object-side surface; a second lens with negative refractive power; a third lens having a concave image-side surface; a fourth lens with positive refractive power; a fifth lens with negative refractive power having a concave image-side surface, at least one surface thereof having at least one inflection point; and an aperture stop disposed between an imaged object and the third lens. The on-axis spacing between the first lens and second lens is T12, the focal length of the imaging lens system is f, and they satisfy the relation: 0.5<(T12/f)×100<15. |
| US08670188B2 |
Zoom lens barrel assembly
A zoom lens barrel assembly includes: a first zoom ring comprising a first protrusion; a guide ring disposed around the first zoom ring comprising a first guide slot through which the first protrusion passes, and a second guide slot; a second zoom ring comprising a second protrusion, and movable in an axial direction; a first cylinder comprising a guide groove into which the second protrusion inserts, and a third protrusion passing through the second guide slot, and disposed between the first and second zoom rings; a second cylinder disposed around the guide ring comprising a fourth protrusion, a first groove portion into which the first protrusion inserts, and a second groove portion into which the third protrusion inserts, and supporting the first zoom ring and the first cylinder; and an external cylinder disposed around the second cylinder and comprising a third groove portion into which the fourth protrusion inserts. |
| US08670185B2 |
Zoom lens and image pickup apparatus including the same
A zoom lens includes, in order from an object side: a first lens unit having positive refractive power which does not move for varying magnification; a magnification-varying lens unit including at least two lens units which move for varying magnification; an aperture stop; and an imaging lens unit having positive refractive power which does not move for varying magnification, in which: the first lens unit includes, in order from the object side, a first sub-lens unit having positive refractive power, a second sub-lens unit having negative refractive power, and a third sub-lens unit having positive refractive power; the second sub-lens unit is driven to the object side so as to perform focus adjustment to an object at a short distance; and the following expression is satisfied: 0.07 |
| US08670184B2 |
Zoom lens system and electronic imaging apparatus provided with the same
A zoom lens system includes a negative first lens group, positive second and third lens groups, wherein upon zooming from the short to long focal length extremities, the distance between the first and second lens groups decreases and the distance between the second and third lens groups changes. The second lens group includes a biconvex positive lens element with an aspherical surface on each side, and a negative meniscus lens element with an aspherical surface, and a concave surface on the image side. Conditions (1) and (2) are satisfied: νd>80 (1), and Pg—F>0.53 (2), wherein νd designates the Abbe number at the d-line of the biconvex positive lens element within the second lens group, and Pg_F designates the partial dispersion ratio of the biconvex positive lens element within the second lens group. |
| US08670181B1 |
Method and apparatus for generating duality modulated electromagnetic radiation
A generator of duality modulated radiation and a corresponding method for its use. The generator depletes or enriches the proportion of energy relative to the wave intensity of a beam. Duality modulation is achieved using a single input beam that is incident on a diffractive grating. For a selected grating structure, the angle of incidence, the wavelength of the input beam and the periodicity of the grating are selected to achieve a desired duality modulation in a diffracted output beam. |
| US08670180B2 |
Wavelength beam combining laser with multiple outputs
A system and method for producing a multi-output laser by reconfiguring and apportioning a plurality of electromagnetic beams produced by various wavelength beam combining techniques. The reconfiguring of beams includes individual rotation and selective repositioning of one or more beams with respect to beam's original input position. |
| US08670165B2 |
Transported material transporting device and image processing apparatus
A transported material transporting device including: a power transmission switching mechanism configured to switch the transmission of the power between the nip-release switching mechanism and the drive motor between a transmitted state and a blocked state; a detection unit provided in the reversing path and configured to detect the presence or absence of the material to be transported which enters the reversing path; and a blocked-state locking mechanism configured to lock the blocked state of the power transmission switching mechanism when the discharging roller is in the released state, wherein the locked state of the blocked-state locking mechanism is released and the power transmission switching mechanism is switched from the blocked state to the transmitted state upon detection of the position of the trailing end of the material to be transported entering the reversing path by the detection unit. |
| US08670162B2 |
Facsimile job managing apparatus, facsimile transmission processing method, and facsimile transmission processing system
According to one embodiment, a facsimile job managing apparatus includes a storing unit, a storage control unit, a history-display-user-interface providing unit, and a transmission processing unit. The storage control unit causes the storing unit to store image data transmitted by facsimile and the outcome of the facsimile transmission processing in association with each other. The history-display-user-interface providing unit provides a client terminal with a history display user interface for acquiring the image data transmitted by facsimile and the outcome of the facsimile transmission processing from the storing unit, displaying a thumbnail image of the image data transmitted by facsimile and outcome information indicating the outcome of the facsimile transmission processing in association with each other, and displaying a retransmission button in association with a thumbnail image of image data unsuccessfully transmitted by facsimile. If the retransmission button is selected in the client terminal, the transmission processing unit transmits image data corresponding to a thumbnail image related to the retransmission button by facsimile. |
| US08670161B2 |
Driver that presents context sensitive information about device features
A printer driver enables a user to determine whether the features that are required to print a specified job are available to a selected network printer. The printer driver queries the selected printer to acquire the current status and other relevant information for each feature that is required to print the job, then provides the results of the query at a user interface. Accordingly, if any of the required features are unavailable to the selected printer, the user can print the job using another printer or take some other appropriate action. |
| US08670155B2 |
Conversion of K-only data from a source to a destination color space
In an implementation, conversion of K-only data from a source CMYK color space to a destination CMYK color space is managed. The destination CMYK color space is transformed to a virtual RGB color space, in which a neutral axis of the virtual RGB color space is set to be mapped to destination K-only output colors in a color separation table for mapping of source K-only grays to destination K-only grays. The source CMYK color space is converted to a device independent color space and the conversion is adjusted such that the source K-only grays are forced to have the same chrominance as the neutral axis of the virtual RGB color space in the color separation table. The LUT is generated to include a K-only mapping by combining the virtual RGB color space with the adjusted conversion of the source K-only grays. |
| US08670154B2 |
Data architecture for mixed resolution interleaved cross-channel data flow and format
The present application provides a mixed resolution, interleaving-based, cross-channel data flow and data format for a printer image path. The architecture provides pixel data for a colorant of a given writing channel at its nominal (full) resolution, while pixel data for other colorants is provided at lowered resolution. Pixel data for a primary channel at its full resolution is interleaved with data for other secondary channels at lower resolution. Known sub-sampling or compression techniques can be used to lower the resolution of the secondary channels. The data at the different resolutions is generated by the digital front end (DFE), which distributes the data for each writing channel at the time it is needed. Preferably, the low resolution data is sent first to the writer, followed by high resolution data, so that data buffering is minimized. |
| US08670153B2 |
Attribute driven gamut mapping via a minimized multi-objective cumulative cost function
What is disclosed is a novel system and method for mapping out-of-gamut colors to a device's gamut to improve image quality in a color document reproduction device involves performing the following. First, an out-of-gamut color xi, which is intended to be mapped to a boundary surface of a color gamut of a color marking device, is selected. A gamut mapping function is also selected. The selected gamut mapping function is intended to be applied to the selected out-of-gamut color point. At least one performance attribute is then selected for the color marking device and a multi-objective cumulative cost JT is determined based upon a combination of costs Jgm and Js. The multi-objective cumulative cost JT is then iteratively driven to a minimum. Once the minimum has been determined, a gamut mapping of the selected out-of-gamut color can then be performed using the minimized multi-objective cumulative cost. Various embodiments are disclosed. |
| US08670150B2 |
Information processing apparatus, information processing method and printing control method
When draw data that has been created by an application program is spooled, whether the resolution of the draw data is to be lowered is decided. If it is decided that the resolution of the draw data is to be lowered, printer information in which the resolution of print data to be spooled has been lowered is returned and spooling is performed at the lowered resolution. The draw data thus spooled is rasterized into a raster image at a resolution that conforms to the resolution of an image forming device, and the raster image that has been rasterized is output to a printer to thereby form an image. |
| US08670147B2 |
Image forming apparatus, computer-readable storage medium for computer program, and control method thereof
An image forming apparatus that prints and edits a document includes a user identification portion, a print management portion that records print management information indicating a user who performs abort operation of printing, an edit management portion that records edit management information, a determination portion that determines, based on the print management information, whether or not the user is a print suspended operator who has performed the abort operation previously, a page extraction portion that, when the print suspended operator performs reprinting operation for giving instructions to print the document that has been updated, extracts pages of the document which were printed successfully when printing of the document was suspended and have been updated thereafter, and a print controller that controls the image forming apparatus such that the image forming apparatus prints at least unprinted pages of the document and the pages extracted by the page extraction portion. |
| US08670145B2 |
Controlling image processing system
In an image processing system, when a user request is received from a client apparatus, an image processing management apparatus determines whether the user request can be processed by the image processing system to generate a determination result, and generate an instruction indicating how the image processing system should operate based on the determination result. |
| US08670142B2 |
Multi-recipient facsimile communications
The present specification discloses a fax machine with routines for generating more than one cover sheet for a single fax job, where the cover sheets are different. The cover sheets are generated by providing a display which includes a first recipient input area for identifying a first recipient and a second recipient input area for identifying a second recipient and a first comment input area for inputting a first comment associated with the first recipient and a second comment input area for inputting a second comment associated with the second recipient. |
| US08670139B2 |
Printing device for transmitting print authentication token and electronic mail address in response to a request
In a system in which printing is performed by attaching electronic data to an electronic mail and transmitting the electronic mail to a printing device, the system includes a terminal, a printing device, and a server. The terminal includes a search-request transmitting unit to transmit a printing-service search request to a network. The printing device includes a search-response transmitting unit to transmit a printing-service search response including an authentication token in a case where the printing device has received the printing-service search request. The terminal further includes a mail transmitting unit to, in the case of transmission of print data using an electronic mail, also transmit an authentication token. The printing device further includes a determining unit to determine whether the authentication token transmitted by the terminal and the authentication token that the printing device holds match, and give, in accordance with a result of the determination, permission for printing. |
| US08670137B2 |
Method and apparatus for printing using synchronization signal
A method and apparatus for printing using a synchronization signal are provided. Printing processes are performed in the apparatus by determining points in time for performing the printing processes based on a synchronization signal so that it is possible to reduce a waiting time for printing. |
| US08670130B2 |
Laser scanner
The invention provides a laser scanner, comprising a main unit and a rotating unit rotatably mounted on the main unit, wherein the rotating unit has a deflection member for projecting the pulsed beams by deflecting the beams perpendicularly to center axis of the rotating unit. The main unit comprises a plurality of light emitting sources disposed in a two-dimensional arrangement for emitting a plurality of pulsed beams, an optical system for projecting and receiving the pulsed beams, a rotation angle detecting unit, a plurality of photodetectors for receiving a reflection light from an object via the deflection member and being disposed respectively at positions conjugate to the light emitting sources, a distance measuring unit for measuring a distance based on a photodetection signal from the photodetector, and a control arithmetic unit for calculating projecting directions of the pulsed laser beams projected from the deflection member. |
| US08670128B2 |
Profile measuring apparatus
A shape determining device (X) splits the original light beam from a light source (Y) into two light beams, directs the light beams to the front and back surfaces of the object (1) to be determined, and performs optical heterodyne interference using the split light beams at the front and back surfaces of the object (1) to be determined. In the shape determining device (X), each of the split light beams is further split into a main light beam and a subordinate light beam, the subordinate light beam interferes with the main light beam at each of the front and back surfaces before and after the illumination of the object (1) to be determined, the signals after the interference are phase-detected, and the difference between the phases acquired by the phase detection is detected at each of the front and back surfaces of the object (1) to be determined. In the shape determining device (X), optical modulation for performing the optical heterodyne interference is performed before the optical heterodyne interference of the split light beams after the split light beams are directed to the front and back surfaces of the object (1) to be determined. Furthermore, in the shape determining device (X), a measurement optical system before the phase detection and after the split light beams are directed to the front and back surfaces of the object (1) to be determined is maintained integrally. |
| US08670127B2 |
Interferometric encoder systems
A method for determining information about changes along a degree of freedom of an encoder scale includes directing a first beam and a second beam along different paths and combining the first and second beams to form an output beam, where the first and second beams are derived from a common source, the first and second beams have different frequencies, where the first beam contacts the encoder scale at a non-Littrow angle and the first beam diffracts from the encoder scale at least once; detecting an interference signal based on the output beam, the interference signal including a heterodyne phase related to an optical path difference between the first beam and the second beam; and determining information about a degree of freedom of the encoder scale based on the heterodyne phase. |
| US08670123B2 |
Optical biosensor with focusing optics
The invention relates to focusing optics (100) for a biosensor (10) which allow with simple means to accurately image an extended investigation region (13) onto a detector plane (P). To this end, the focusing optics (100) comprises at least two focusing lenslets (LL) that are arranged adjacent to each other such that they image an incident parallel light beam (L2) that is directed along a main optical axis (MOA) onto a common plane (P). The output light beam (L2) that is received by the focusing optics (100) may preferably originate from total internal reflection of a parallel input light beam (L1) at the investigation region (13) of a transparent carrier. |
| US08670122B2 |
Surface plasmon resonance measuring device
A SPR measuring device is proposed. The measuring device includes a circularly polarized heterodyne light source that produces a circularly polarized heterodyne light beam, a beam splitting element that splits the circularly polarized heterodyne light beam into a reference beam and a signal beam, a first light sensing unit that receives a reference light intensity of the reference beam, a SPR sensor that receives the signal beam and reflects a reflected signal beam, a second light sensing unit that receives a reflected light intensity of the reflected signal beam and a processing circuit that calculates a phase difference between the reference light intensity and the reflected light intensity. A phase change caused by SPR of an incident light is sensitively represented by the circularly polarized heterodyne light beam. Thus tiny changes in physical quantities of analytes are measured easily. |
| US08670120B2 |
Device for analyzing a polyphase mixture via a light beam backscattered by said mixture
Device for analyzing a polyphase mixture via a light beam backscattered by said mixture, comprising: a vertical cell capable of containing the polyphase mixture; means for emitting a light beam in the direction of the cell, in such a way that the light beam lies in a vertical plane (PV) covering at least the height (hc) of the cell containing the polyphase mixture; means for receiving a light beam backscattered by the polyphase mixture, covering the height of the backscattered light beam, extending over the height (hc) of the cell containing the polyphase mixture; optical conjugation means placed between the cell and the means for receiving the backscattered beam, the receiving means comprising a matrix center forming a surface for receiving the backscattered beam, lying in vertical and horizontal directions; and means for analyzing the backscattered beam received by the matrix sensor, the light beam emitted in the direction of the cell, adopting, at its interface between the internal surface of the wall of the cell and the polyphase mixture, the form of a vertical line the width of which is shorter, preferably very much shorter, than the free transport path of the polyphase mixture. |
| US08670119B1 |
Apparatus having surface-enhanced spectroscopy modules
According to an example, an apparatus for performing spectroscopy includes a perimeter wall extending between a first end and a second end of the perimeter wall along a first axis, in which an interior surface of the perimeter wall forms a hollow core extending along the first axis. The perimeter wall has openings at both the first end and the second end and light is to pass through the perimeter wall. The apparatus also includes a plurality of SES modules positioned around an inner circumference of the perimeter wall in a spaced arrangement with respect to each other to allow light to enter into the hollow core in gaps between the plurality of SES modules, in which each of the plurality of SES modules is positioned substantially across from a gap. |
| US08670116B2 |
Method and device for inspecting for defects
A defect inspecting method is provided which comprises a pre-scan defect inspecting process including a pre-scan irradiating step for casting irradiation light onto the surface of a sample, a pre-scan detecting step for detecting the scattered lights, and a pre-scan defect information collecting step for obtaining information on preselected defects present on the sample surface on the basis of the scattered lights; a near-field defect inspecting process including a near-field irradiating step in which the distance between the sample surface and a near-field head is adjusted so that the sample surface is irradiated, a near-field detecting step for detecting near-field light response, and a near-field defect information collecting step for obtaining information on the preselected defects on the basis of the near-field light response; and a merging process for inspecting defects present on the sample surface by merging the pieces of information on the preselected defects. |
| US08670114B2 |
Device and method for measuring six degrees of freedom
A laser tracker system for measuring six degrees of freedom may include a main optics assembly structured to emit a first laser beam, a pattern projector assembly structured to emit a second laser beam shaped into a two-dimensional pattern, and a target. The target may include a retroreflector and a position sensor assembly. A center of symmetry of the retroreflector may be provided on a different plane than a plane of the position sensor assembly. A method of measuring orientation of a target may include illuminating the target with a laser beam comprising a two-dimensional pattern, recording a position of the two-dimensional pattern on a position sensor assembly to create a measured signature value of the two-dimensional pattern, and calculating an orientation of the target based on the measured signature value. |
| US08670105B2 |
Immersion photolithography system and method using microchannel nozzles
A liquid immersion photolithography system includes an exposure system that exposes a substrate with electromagnetic radiation and includes a projection optical system that focuses the electromagnetic radiation on the substrate. A liquid supply system provides liquid flow between the projection optical system and the substrate. A liquid confinement structure of the liquid supply system confines the liquid to a space adjacent the substrate at least during projection of the pattern, the liquid confinement structure including an extractor to remove liquid from the space, the extractor including a two dimensional array of extraction openings. |
| US08670102B2 |
Display panel
A display panel includes an active device array substrate, an opposite substrate, and a liquid crystal layer. The active device array substrate includes a substrate and further includes a pixel array, signal lines, and first and second repairing lines all disposed on the substrate. The signal lines electrically connect the pixel array. The first repairing line includes first and second line segments respectively located on first and second sides of the pixel array. The first side is substantially perpendicular to the second side. The first and second line segments are electrically connected. The second repairing line includes third and fourth line segments respectively located on third and second sides of the pixel array. The third side is substantially parallel to the first side. The fourth and third line segments are electrically connected. The opposite substrate above the active device array substrate does not cover the first and third line segments. |
| US08670101B2 |
Display device
A display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes: a substrate, a plurality of gate lines formed on the substrate, a plurality of data lines formed on the substrate, a plurality of switching elements connected to the gate lines and the data lines, a plurality of clock signal transmitting lines formed on the substrate, and a gate driver connected to the gate lines and the clock signal transmitting lines. A direction of each of the clock signal transmitting lines is changed approximately ninety degrees in a first region and a second region. The regions are disposed between an edge of the substrate and the gate driver. A symmetry is present between portions of the clock signal transmitting lines arranged in the first region and the second region. |
| US08670098B2 |
Liquid crystal display panel and manufacturing method of the same
A fringe field type liquid crystal display panel that increases an aperture ratio of a pixel area includes: a gate line disposed on a substrate; a data line disposed to cross the gate line, wherein a gate insulating film is disposed the gate line and the data line; a thin film transistor disposed at an intersection area of the gate line and the data line; a pixel electrode disposed on the gate insulating film and directly connected to the thin film transistor; a passivation film disposed on the gate insulating film to cover the pixel electrode and the thin film transistor; and a common electrode disposed to overlap the pixel electrode and the data line on the passivation film to form a fringe field for aligning liquid crystal together with the pixel electrode. |
| US08670094B2 |
Resin composition and image display apparatus
A thin image display apparatus capable of high luminance and high contrast display of a display part, which does not produce display defects resulting from deformation of the image display part. The thin image display apparatus has an image display part and a light-transmitting protective part arranged on the image display part. A cured resin layer is arranged between the image display part and the protective part. The cured resin layer has a transmittance in the visible region of 90% or higher and a storage modulus at 25° C. of 1.0×107 Pa or less. The cured resin layer is formed from a resin composition which has a curing shrinkage ratio of 5.0% or less. |
| US08670093B2 |
Liquid crystal display device
Disclosed is an LCD device which facilitates to realize a high aesthetic sense by obtaining a colorful and entirely-unified color screen under the circumstance that an image is not displayed in a turning-off state, wherein the LCD device comprises: a liquid crystal module which comprises a liquid crystal panel for displaying an image; a set cover which supports the liquid crystal module; and a color realization film which selectively transmits light with a predetermined wavelength when the liquid crystal module is turned-off, wherein the color realization film comprises a cholesteric liquid crystal layer (CLC), a quarter wave plate (QWP), and a first adhesive layer formed between the cholesteric liquid crystal layer (CLC) and the quarter wave plate (QWP). |
| US08670091B2 |
Display device having stack of polarizers with wavelength distribution of extinction coefficient
An object of the invention is to provide a display device having a high contrast ratio. Another object of the invention is to manufacture such a high-performance display device at low cost. In a display device having a display element between a pair of light-transmissive substrates, polarizer-including layers, which have different wavelength distributions of extinction coefficients, are stacked so that absorption axes are in a parallel nicol state, over each light-transmissive substrate. Absorption axes of one of a pair of stacks of polarizers and the other together which interpose the display element are deviated from a cross nicol state. A retardation plate may be provided between the stack of polarizing plates and the substrate. |
| US08670087B2 |
Light emitting module and display device having the same
A light emitting module including a board, a plurality of light emitting devices on the board, a resin disposed on the plurality of light emitting devices, and a phosphor film on the resin and extending along areas between the light emitting devices, wherein the light emitting devices are spaced from each other by a predetermined distance, wherein the phosphor film is divided into parts, the parts having different phosphors being one of a red phosphor, a green phosphor or a blue phosphor and corresponding respectively to the light emitting devices, and wherein the divided phosphor films are connected to each other and makes a continuous phosphor film layer. |
| US08670085B2 |
Display device having decreased bezel width
Disclosed is a display device with small thickness and good aesthetic exterior appearance, which comprises a liquid crystal display panel for displaying images; a backlight unit for supplying light to the liquid crystal display panel; and a support member for supporting the liquid crystal display panel and the backlight unit, wherein the support member comprises a set cover for receiving the liquid crystal display panel and the backlight unit, the set cover functioning as an external cover; and a guide frame for guiding the position of the liquid crystal display panel and backlight unit, wherein the guide frame and liquid crystal display panel are connected with each other by a connection member provided therebetween. At this time, the lower and lateral sides of the display device are covered without using upper and external cases to cover the upper edge of display device. Thus, the entire thickness of the display device is decreased; the bezel width of the display device is also decreased; and the entire step coverage of the display device is removed, whereby the front of the display device is recognized as one structure, to thereby allow the good aesthetic exterior appearance of the display device. |
| US08670081B2 |
Array substrate for liquid crystal display device and method of fabricating the same
An array substrate for a liquid crystal display device includes a data line formed on a substrate including a pixel region; a source electrode extending from the data line; a drain electrode separated from the source electrode; a pixel electrode contacting the drain electrode and formed of a transparent conductive material in the pixel region; an organic semiconductor layer on the source and drain electrodes; a first gate insulating layer of an organic insulating material on the organic semiconductor layer; a second gate insulting layer of an inorganic insulating material on entire surface of the substrate including the first gate insulating layer; a gate line formed on the second gate insulating layer and crossing the data line to define the pixel region; and a gate electrode on the second gate insulating layer extending from the gate line and corresponding to the organic semiconductor layer. |
| US08670075B2 |
Image interpolation for motion/disparity compensation
Methods of image interpolation disclosed herein include a method of irregular-grid expanded-block weighted motion compensation (IEWMC) and a method of block-wise directional hole interpolation (BDHI). The IEWMC can be used with unidirectional motion or disparity trajectories. The IEWMC can be applied in both forward and backward directions, and the interpolated images resulting from IEWMC application can be superimposed, or averaged, to reduce the blocking artifacts and handle the holes and overlaps. The BDHI takes into account the orientation of local edges and textures when filling the holes, which results in a sharper interpolated image. |
| US08670072B1 |
Method and apparatus for streaming media data processing, and streaming media playback equipment
The present invention provides a streaming media data processing method. The method includes: based on a stream index in streaming media data, separating the streaming media data stream into audio stream data and video stream data and respectively buffering them in an audio stream data queue and a video stream data queue; respectively decoding audio data buffered in the audio stream data queue and video data buffered in the video stream data queue; based on a play callback timestamp of the decoded audio data and a system time of a streaming media playback equipment, determining an audio/video synchronization time; based on a comparison result between a video frame timestamp and a sum of the determined audio/video synchronization time and a video refresh time, processing and displaying each frame in the decoded video stream data according to a predetermined processing method in accordance with the comparison result. The method may avoid the asynchrony between video and audio steams resulted from the asynchrony between audio time and the system time and, at the same time, the synchronization between the video time and the system time when displaying the stream data, which may greatly reduce the repeated video pauses in the video display. |
| US08670071B1 |
Method and apparatus for de-interlacing video
A method for de-interlacing interlaced video includes receiving a first video field and a second video field, generating a first video frame by inserting the first video field in the first video frame on every second line of the first video frame, and by inserting a first synthesized video field on the lines of the first video frame not populated by the first video field. The video data of the first synthesized video field is based on video data of the first and second video fields. A second video frame is generated by inserting the second video field in the first video frame on every second line of the second video frame and by inserting a second synthesized video field on the lines of the second video frame not populated by the second video field. Two de-interlaced video frames are output for every received interlaced video frame. |
| US08670070B2 |
Method and system for achieving better picture quality in various zoom modes
A method and system are provided in which a video image may be scaled from a first to a second video format. The scaling may be a non-uniform scaling such as an anamorphic scaling. When panning associated with the scaled video image is detected, one or more end portions of a current frame of the scaled video image may be adjusted, the adjustment being based on one or more frames of the scaled video image that are previous to the current frame. The adjustment may result from combining information from the corresponding end portion of previous frames with the information of the current frame. One or more end portions that are opposite to the ones adjusted may also be adjusted based on one or more frames of the scaled video image that are subsequent to the current frame. The panning detected may be horizontal, vertical, or a combination thereof. |
| US08670068B2 |
Protective cover, camera module, and electronic device employing the same
An electronic device includes a housing, a circuit board, and a camera module. The camera module includes a camera unit, a flash device, and a protective cover. The camera unit records and stores images, and the protective cover protects the camera unit and the flash device. The protective cover includes an opening, a light hole, and a separation portion located between the opening and the light hole. The light from the flash device is diffused and passes through the light hole. The camera unit and the flash device are separated by the separation portion to prevent the light of the flash device from entering camera unit through the opening. |
| US08670066B2 |
Method of acquiring an image in a transparent, colored container
A vision system useful in acquiring images includes: a light dome having a window and a perimeter; an annular light curtain positioned within and radially inwardly from the perimeter of the light dome such that an annular gap is formed between the light dome and the light curtain; and a light ring positioned to illuminate the gap between the light dome and the light curtain. The light curtain and window are sized and positioned such that no direct light from the light ring reaches the window. The system further comprises a camera having a lens facing the window to acquire images of an object on a side of the window opposite the camera. The images acquired by the camera can then be compared to stored images to determine whether the identity of the objects (which may be pharmaceutical tablets) is as expected. |
| US08670065B2 |
Methods and systems for cameras with a disposable housing
The present disclosure comprises a camera that includes a plurality of technical components including an optical system, an actuator device, and an energy source. The camera also includes a disposable housing for receiving said technical components. |
| US08670055B2 |
Image pickup lens, camera module using the same, image pickup lens manufacturing method and camera module manufacturing method
An image pickup lens is provided that includes a substrate; resin layers formed on both respective opposite surfaces of the substrate; a lens portion formed on at least any one of the surfaces of the substrate; and a spacer formed on at least any one of the surfaces of the substrate at an area surrounding the lens portion. |
| US08670048B2 |
Apparatus and methods for reducing blur in camera images
An image-pickup apparatus includes an image-pickup section that picks up images to obtain picked-up-image-data items, a temporarily retaining section that temporarily retains the picked-up-image-data items, a storage-process section that performs a storage process on the picked-up-image-data items, a movement-detecting section that detects a movement of the image-pickup apparatus, an operation section that performs a shutter operation, and a control section that causes the temporarily retaining section to retain picked-up-image-data items in a shutter-operation period, that selects, on the basis of detection results obtained by the movement-detecting section in the shutter-operation period, a picked-up-image-data item from among the retained picked-up-image-data items, and that causes the storage-process section to perform the storage process on the selected picked-up-image-data item. |
| US08670042B2 |
Blinking-signal detecting device
A blinking-signal device 1 includes a light receiving section 10, a row selecting section 20, a readout section 30, a detecting section 40, and a control section 50. By the row selecting section 20, charge generated in its photodiode of each pixel unit P2i-1,n of the (2i−1)-th row in the light receiving section 10 is accumulated in its charge accumulating section during a first period, and charge generated in its photodiode of each pixel unit P2i,n of the 2i-th row in the light receiving section 10 is accumulated in its charge accumulating section during a second period. With the detecting section 40, it is detected whether or not light reaching the pixel units P2i-1,n and P2i,n is a blinking signal on the basis of a difference between data D2i-1,n and D2i,n of the pixel units P2i-1,n and P2i output from the readout section 30. |
| US08670041B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling a camera module to compensate for the light level of a white LED
A method and an apparatus enabling use of a light source emitting a light of changing intensity and changing spectrum as a flash with a camera module having a white-balance routine and an exposure routine, wherein an initial value representative of a color spectrum emitted by the light source is transmitted to the camera module, the light source is turned on, and the camera module is signaled to scan a plurality of images of the scene while the light source is turned on, allowing the white-balance and exposure algorithms to be employed with each image scanned to refine the first initial value to refine the degree of compensation employed in correcting a color and a light level in the last one of the images of the plurality of images scanned. |
| US08670038B2 |
Projection display device and method of controlling the same
A projection display device adapted to display a projection image based on external image data input externally, includes: a projection section; an image data storage section adapted to store projection image data; an image control section adapted to execute an image data obtaining process; an image capturing section adapted to capture a projection area including the projection surface to generate a captured image; and a correction amount determination section adapted to execute a correction amount determination process for determining a correction amount, wherein the image control section halts the image data obtaining process during a period in which the correction amount determination section is executing the correction amount determination process, and after the correction amount determination process is terminated, makes the projection section display a temporary projection image obtained by correcting an image data previously stored in the image data storage section, and resumes the image data obtaining process. |
| US08670034B2 |
Image processor and camera
An image processor outputs an image containing relatively much information of a central area in the horizontal direction. A mask composed of an upper mask and a lower mask is superimposed on the image. The upper mask is concave on the lower side thereof and disposed along the upper side of the image. The lower mask is concave on the upper side thereof and disposed along the lower side of the image. When the image is masked with this mask, the peripheral portion of the image that is prone to be distorted becomes invisible. Therefore, discomfort a user feels because of distortion can be reduced. In addition, the user can view the image with the much information of the central area of the image in the horizontal direction. |
| US08670033B2 |
Momentum balance optical scanning for wide field of view optical sensors
A compact momentum-balanced internal optical scanning mechanism is provided for a wide angle camera used in photo reconnaissance and the like, in which a large high resolution but not fully populated array is used to provide full scene coverage with high pixel densities, in which sharpness is maintained and in which the image can be scanned without vibration due to momentum compensation so that the image may be shifted on the focal plane array in such a manner that images focused on a dark portion of the array will move to an active portion of the array, with the sequential read out of the information concatenated into high resolution full scene image data. |
| US08670032B2 |
Device and method for inspecting bottles or similar containers
A container inspection device includes at least two cameras displaced from each other in a container's direction of travel and camera axes perpendicular to that direction. Each camera records an image of the same container region when the container is directly in front it. A difference between the images indicates a defect in form of the container. A device moves the container and records these images by some combination of rotating and/or pivoting. An electronic evaluation system compares the images and ascertains a defect in the form of the inspected container if they are different. |
| US08670029B2 |
Depth camera illuminator with superluminescent light-emitting diode
A depth camera illuminator with a superluminescent light-emitting diode (SLED) in a motion tracking system. One or more SLEDs have a sufficient power, such as 75-200 milliwatts, to extend in a field of view in an area such as a room in a home. To correct for chromatic aberration which would otherwise exist due to the wider range of wavelengths which are emitted by an SLED compared to a laser, an achromatic diffractive optical element is used to disperse the light over the field of view. The achromatic diffractive optical element can have a stepped multi-level profile with three or more levels, or a continuous profile. Based on a tracked movement of a human target, an input is provided to an application in a motion tracking system, and the application performs a corresponding action such as updating a position of an on-screen avatar. |
| US08670028B2 |
Image pickup device and endoscope
An image pickup device includes: an image pickup element; a spacer surrounding a light receiving surface of the image pickup element; a cover glass attached to the spacer, the cover glass being disposed opposing to the light receiving surface; and an insulative resin configured to thermally couple the image pickup element with the cover glass, and to have a thermal conductivity of not less than 8 W/mK. An endoscope includes: the image pickup device; an image pickup optical system; a drive circuit; a light guide configured to radiate light from a illumination light source; a tubular body configured to accommodate the image pickup device, the image pickup optical system, the drive circuit, the light guide, and a forceps opening; and a first insulative resin having a thermal conductivity of not less than 8 W/mK, and adapted to thermally couple the image pickup device with the drive circuit. |
| US08670025B2 |
Display device and control method
A stereoscopic video display system includes a display device for displaying stereoscopic video, an image pickup element for generating image data, a position determiner for processing the image data received by the image pickup element to determine position information of at least one object identified in the image data, and a plurality of light output sections each having one or more light transmitters. Each light transmitter is configured to output timing signals having a signal strength based on the determined position information. The stereoscopic video display system also includes at least one set of shutter eyeglasses including a light receiving section for receiving timing signals output from at least one of the light transmitters of the light output sections. |
| US08670024B2 |
Camera objective and camera system
A camera objective for a camera includes a mask having a plurality of masking sections which are permeable for radiation of a first spectral range and are impermeable for radiation of a second spectral range different from the first spectral range. A camera system includes a digital camera for taking images. The camera system includes such a camera objective and an optoelectronic sensor arrangement having a plurality of sensor elements for generating exposure-dependent received signals which form a respective image. The plurality of sensor elements includes a first group of sensor elements for generating received signals in dependence only on radiation of the first spectral range and a second group of sensor elements for generating received signals in dependence on radiation of the second spectral range. |
| US08670022B2 |
Mobile terminal and method for controlling operation of the mobile terminal
A mobile terminal and a method for controlling the operation of the same are provided. In the method, a screen including a preview image of a camera is displayed on a display module. Then, a preview window is set in a region of the screen and a predictive image of a three-dimensional (3D) stereoscopic image, which can be generated using images of a subject corresponding to the preview image, is displayed on the preview window. Thus, when images are captured to obtain a 3D stereoscopic image, the user can easily operate the camera using such a 3D stereoscopic image preview function. |
| US08670019B2 |
System and method for providing enhanced eye gaze in a video conferencing environment
An apparatus is provided in one example and includes first and second cameras configured to capture image data associated with an end user involved in a video session. The can further include a display configured to interface with the cameras, and a shaft coupled to a rotor. The cameras are secured to the shaft, and the shaft receives a rotational force such that during rotation of the shaft, the cameras pass over the display in order to capture particular image data associated with the end user's face in such a way as to improve eye gaze alignment. |
| US08670017B2 |
Remote presence system including a cart that supports a robot face and an overhead camera
A tele-presence system that includes a cart. The cart includes a robot face that has a robot monitor, a robot camera, a robot speaker, a robot microphone, and an overhead camera. The system also includes a remote station that is coupled to the robot face and the overhead camera. The remote station includes a station monitor, a station camera, a station speaker and a station microphone. The remote station can display video images captured by the robot camera and/or overhead camera. By way of example, the cart can be used in an operating room, wherein the overhead camera can be placed in a sterile field and the robot face can be used in a non-sterile field. The user at the remote station can conduct a teleconference through the robot face and also obtain a view of a medical procedure through the overhead camera. |
| US08670013B2 |
Light scanning device, light scanning device production method, and color image forming apparatus
A light scanning device includes a semiconductor laser which emits a laser beam in response to an image forming signal, an optical deflector which scans the laser beam emitted from the semiconductor laser in a main scanning direction, and a liquid crystal deflecting element which changes the scanning position of the laser beam emitted from the semiconductor laser while desynchronized with output of the image forming signal, thereby to correct the scanning position of the laser beam in a sub-scanning direction. |
| US08670008B2 |
Organic light emitting display device and driving method thereof
An organic light emitting display device includes: pixels connected to corresponding scanning lines and corresponding data lines; a scanning driver for supplying scanning signals to the scanning lines; a data driver for supplying data signals to the data lines; and a data processor for generating a luminance look-up table corresponding to a likelihood of burn-in for the pixels, for generating output data from input data corresponding to the look-up table, and for supplying the output data to the data driver. |
| US08670007B2 |
Display apparatus driving method, display apparatus driving device, program therefor, recording medium storing program, and display apparatus
A control section divides a display screen into small regions, evaluates the relative brightness of each of the small regions in accordance with color data to be inputted as color data by which each pixel is displayed, and determines whether or not the display screen has a first small region that is brighter than the other small regions by a predetermined degree. Furthermore, the control section causes a first generating means to generate gradation data for use in the first small region, and causes a second generating means to generate gradation data for use in the other small regions. Even if the second generating section receives the same color data as the first generating section does, the second generating section limits the luminance of a W sub-pixel as compared to the first generating section. With this, the first small region can be displayed more strikingly brightly, so that a clearer, more realistic, and more appealing image can be displayed. This makes it possible to realize a display apparatus capable of displaying a clearer, more realistic, and more appealing image. |
| US08670001B2 |
System and method for converting a fish-eye image into a rectilinear image
A system and method are disclosed for converting a region of a Fish-Eye or other wide-angle image into a rectilinear image. According to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, a Fish-Eye to rectilinear image conversion block is defined for use in a block diagram of a diagrammatic programming environment. The Fish-Eye to rectilinear image conversion block may use any of a variety of models for Fish-Eye systems, and thus is “model-independent.” Further, intuitive zoom, pan, tilt, and attitude adjustment parameters may be used with the image conversion block, to allow control of the conversion by users lacking advanced understanding of optics. |
| US08670000B2 |
Optical display system and method with virtual image contrast control
A method includes generating a light pattern using a display panel and forming a virtual image from the light pattern utilizing one or more optical components. The virtual image is viewable from a viewing location. The method also includes receiving external light from a real-world environment incident on an optical sensor. The real-world environment is viewable from the viewing location. Further, the method includes obtaining an image of the real-world environment from the received external light, identifying a background feature in the image of the real-world environment over which the virtual image is overlaid, and extracting one or more visual characteristics of the background feature. Additionally, the method includes comparing the one or more visual characteristics to an upper threshold value and a lower threshold value and controlling the generation of the light pattern based on the comparison. |
| US08669999B2 |
Alpha-to-coverage value determination using virtual samples
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for converting alpha values into pixel coverage masks. Geometric coverage is sampled at a number of “real” sample positions within each pixel. Color and depth values are computed for each of these real samples. Fragment alpha values are used to determine an alpha coverage mask for the real samples and additional “virtual” samples, in which the number of bits set in the mask bits is proportional to the alpha value. An alpha-to-coverage mode uses the virtual samples to increase the number of transparency levels for each pixel compared with using only real samples. The alpha-to-coverage mode may be used in conjunction with virtual coverage anti-aliasing to provide higher-quality transparency for rendering anti-aliased images. |
| US08669990B2 |
Sharing resources between a CPU and GPU
A technique to share execution resources. In one embodiment, a CPU and a GPU share resources according to workload, power considerations, or available resources by scheduling or transferring instructions and information between the CPU and GPU. |
| US08669989B2 |
Parallel image processing system
System and method for a parallel image processing mechanism for applying mask data patterns to substrate in a lithography manufacturing process are disclosed. In one embodiment, the parallel image processing system includes a graphics engine configured to partition an object into a plurality of trapezoids and form an edge list for representing each of the plurality of trapezoids, and a distributor configured to receive the edge list from the graphics engine and distribute the edge list to a plurality of scan line image processing units. The system further includes a sentinel configured to synchronize operations of the plurality of scan line image processing units, and a plurality of buffers configured to store image data from corresponding scan line image processing units and outputs the stored image data using the sentinel. |
| US08669988B2 |
High data rate interface apparatus and method
A data interface for transferring digital data between a host and a client over a communication path using packet structures linked together to form a communication protocol for communicating a pre-selected set of digital control and presentation data. The signal protocol is used by link controllers configured to generate, transmit, and receive packets forming the communications protocol, and to form digital data into one or more types of data packets, with at least one residing in the host device and being coupled to the client through the communications path. The interface provides a cost-effective, low power, bi-directional, high-speed data transfer mechanism over a short-range “serial” type data link, which lends itself to implementation with miniature connectors and thin flexible cables which are especially useful in connecting display elements such as wearable micro-displays to portable computers and wireless communication devices. |
| US08669985B2 |
Assessment results viewer
An assessment results viewer displays the results of assessments that quantify the performance of an aspect of a computing device. The viewer presents both an overview of the collected data and mechanisms for displaying ever-increasing details, including raw data itself. The viewer further provides actionable information to the user that can offer the user guidance, or otherwise suggest potential courses of action. The viewer automatically aggregates multiple iterations of the same assessment to generate derivative overview data, and automatically aligns data collected by the same assessment across multiple job files. Such aggregation and alignment is performed by reference to metadata, including identifying information. Data can be presented in tabular form, and users can pivot along different axis to focus on groupings of data. |
| US08669981B1 |
Images from self-occlusion
A method for generating a self-occlusion surface for an image. The method includes receiving the image, receiving a selection of a material with which to construct the self-occlusion surface, and receiving calibration data associated with the material. A plurality of pits is determined, based on the image and calibration data, to define within the self-occlusion surface. A preview of the self-occlusion surface is rendered based on the plurality of pits and the material. |
| US08669979B2 |
Multi-core processor supporting real-time 3D image rendering on an autostereoscopic display
A multi-core processor system may support 3D image rendering on an autostereoscopic display. The 3D image rendering includes pre-processing of depth map and 3D image wrapping tasks. The pre-processing of depth map may include a foreground prior depth image smoothing technique, which may perform a depth gradient detection and a smoothing task. The depth gradient detection task may detect areas with large depth gradient and the smoothing task may transform the large depth gradient into a linearly changing shape using low-strength, low-pass filtering techniques. The 3D image wrapping may include vectorizing the code for 3D image wrapping of row pixels using an efficient single instruction multiple data (SIMD) technique. After vectorizing, an API such as OpenMP may be used to parallelize the 3D image wrapping procedure. The 3D image wrapping using OpenMP may be performed on rows of the 3D image and on images of the multiple view images. |