| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08720909B2 |
Quick-release bit adapter
A quick-release bit adapter includes a body having first and second ends spaced along a longitudinal axis. The body includes a driving hole extending from the first end towards the second end along the longitudinal axis. The body further includes a sliding groove in communication with the driving hole and intermediate the driving hole and the second end along the longitudinal axis. A through-hole extends from an outer periphery of the first end through the sliding groove. A bit received in the driving hole abuts and is stopped by at least one protrusion extending inward from an inner periphery of the driving hole towards the longitudinal axis. A magnetic device is slideably received in the sliding groove and controllable by a user through the through-hole to slide along the longitudinal axis between two positions to engage with or disengage from the bit. |
| US08720908B2 |
Vehicle component and sealing member
A vehicle component includes a sealing member that is sandwiched between the vehicle component and a vehicle body to seal a gap between the vehicle component and the vehicle body. The sealing member includes an adhering/separating member that is adhereable to and separable from a wall of the vehicle body, and an elastic compressing member that is elastically compressible and stacked on the adhering/separating member. The adhering/separating member adheres to the wall of the vehicle body when the sealing member is present between the vehicle component and the vehicle body. |
| US08720904B2 |
Static sealing device for wheel hub assemblies connected to constant velocity joints
A static sealing device for a wheel hub assembly, an inner ring operatively associated with a constant velocity joint, an outer ring coupled with the wheel hub, including a first sealing assembly arranged between the inner ring and an outer ring for protecting respective rolling bodies, and a second sealing assembly integrally carried by the inner ring, arranged straddling the wheel hub and the outer ring of the joint; wherein the first sealing assembly includes a shield anchored to the inner ring of the bearing and provided, on the first side of the joint, with a flange portion carrying an annular signal generating element towards the joint which leaves an annular radially inner area of the flange portion uncovered, defining an annular seat between it and the inner ring in which an edge radially folded on the outside of a tubular core of the second sealing assembly is coupled. |
| US08720901B2 |
Seal ring
A seal ring that seals an annular gap formed between a shaft and a housing that has a shaft hole into which the shaft is inserted. The seal ring is configured such that one of both the ends and has a projection projecting in the direction of the circumference of the seal ring. The other end has a recess used in combination with the projection. The seal ring is characterized in that the recess has an inclining side face, which inclines from the direction of the circumference, and the projection and the recess form a sliding part so that a part of the edge of the leading end of the projection slides over the inclining side face of the recess, and portion of the sliding part is formed as a linear sliding portion. |
| US08720897B1 |
Timer controlled building and demolition game apparatus
Toy and game methods and apparatus including rectangular block elements layered to form a tower with upper and lower layers held by frictional coupling between the layers. The tower height increases during game play by removing blocks from one or more lower layers to build up successive upper layers upon an assembly platform. An upsetting element at the base transforms the blocks by dislodging the block elements with respect to the assembly platform by moving or traversing the assembly platform. A shifting mechanism may be provided in mechanical communication with the assembly platform for moving the platform between positions. A timer element establishes a predetermined time period from which the upsetting element transforms the block elements assembled atop the platform at an expiration of the set period of play time. |
| US08720895B2 |
Portable archery target support
A portable archery target support having at least three legs that can be arranged asymmetrically, the legs being dowels or simple tubes; with a non-rigid target suspension feature and stabilizers to prevent the target from swinging or turning excessively after an arrow strike. |
| US08720894B2 |
Ground preparation apparatus
The present invention is a ground preparation apparatus for use in maintaining substantially uniformly soft and smooth soil while providing a movable roping target. The apparatus is usefully in avoiding the need to separately maintain ground to be used in roping practice while at the same time providing a moving roping target. |
| US08720888B2 |
Image forming apparatus with a feeding unit including a plurality of ribs
An image forming apparatus is provided that includes a turn-around mechanism, and a re-feeding unit that includes a first feeding unit having a guide curved to bulge in such a direction as to be farther from an image forming unit, the guide defining an outer side of a curved first feeding route for feeding a sheet received from the turn-around mechanism, and a second feeding unit defining a second feeding route for feeding the sheet fed via the first feeding route, the guide including a first section on a first side thereof in the width direction of the sheet, and a second section around a second side opposite to the first side thereof in the width direction, the second section being curved to bulge more than the first section in such a direction as to be farther from the image forming unit. |
| US08720884B2 |
Sheet loading device and image forming apparatus equipped with the same
A sheet loading device positioned in an image forming apparatus includes a frame and a loading plate located on an upper surface portion of the frame. The loading plate, in association with, the upper surface portion allows the sheet to be loaded on thereon. The loading plate includes a sheet loading member that supports a downstream side of the sheet in a sheet feed direction, and can be raised and lowered with respect to a sheet transportation path, and a cover member that is located between the sheet loading member and the upper surface portion. The cover member covers a gap formed between the sheet loading member and the upper surface portion when the sheet loading member is in a raised position. |
| US08720882B2 |
Sheet feeding device and image forming apparatus
A sheet feeding device includes a stacking unit configured to allow sheets to be stacked thereon; side end regulating members configured to make contact with both side ends of the stacked sheets so that positions of the side ends are regulated; a feeding unit configured to feed one sheet at a time from the stacked sheets; an air supply unit; and an air blow unit including a blow port from which air supplied from the air supply unit is blown against a side end of the stacked sheets, the air blow unit being housed in each of the side end regulating members. Each side end regulating member has an opening for exhausting the air that is blown from the blow port unit to the stacked sheets. An orientation of the blow port is adjustable about an axial line perpendicular to a plane corresponding to a surface of the stacked sheets. |
| US08720881B2 |
Image forming apparatus and method of controlling same
An image forming apparatus is provided that can efficiently reduce power consumption. The image forming apparatus includes a power supply portion that brings, into a power saving state, a paper feed device holding a sheet of a sheet size whose paper feed frequency does not reach a threshold value and a notification portion that provides a notification that a paper feed device holding the sheet of the sheet size whose paper feed frequency reaches the threshold value is encouraged to be the paper feed device that is closer to the print portion than the paper feed device holding the sheet of the sheet size whose paper feed frequency does not reach the threshold value. |
| US08720879B1 |
Food preparation cutting board and associated method
A food preparation cutting board for cutting and storing food stuff in isolated compartments adjacent to the cutting board preferably includes a cutting board including a plurality of openings formed along a perimeter thereof, and a plurality of food containers removably interfitted within the openings respectively such that the food containers are juxtaposed adjacent to the perimeter of the cutting board. The food containers are fixedly engaged with the cutting board when the food containers are disposed within the openings respectively. Such food containers are capable of may be interchangeably oriented at an upright position and an inverted position relative to the cutting board. In this manner, the food containers are adapted to receive food stuff directly from the cutting board. Furthermore, a user is able to expand the surface area of the cutting board and/or conveniently slide food stuff into the food containers directly from the cutting board. |
| US08720878B2 |
Positioning device
A positioning device includes a base, a supporting member, a fixing member, a first electromagnetic clutch, an engaging member, and at least one guide member. The base defines at least one hole. The supporting member is configured to support a workpiece. The supporting member and the fixing member are at the opposite sides of the base. The first electromagnetic clutch is disposed on a side of the base adjacent to the fixing member. The engaging member configured to be attracted by the first electromagnetic clutch is disposed on a side of the fixing member adjacent to the base and corresponds to the first electromagnetic clutch. An end of the at least one guide member is fixed to the fixing member, and an opposite end of the fixing member passes through the at least one hole and is fixed to the supporting member. |
| US08720877B2 |
Oscillation controller for an oscillating body capable of adjusting acceleration thereof
In oscillating an oscillating body, a control unit obtains a load torque due to the gravity acting on a drive motor at least at one angular position defined about an axis of rotation. The control unit calculates a specified maximum acceleration depending upon if the load torque Q is acting in a direction in which it hinders the acceleration or deceleration of the drive motor 15 or is acting in a direction in which it assists the acceleration or deceleration. An acceleration for the oscillating body is set so as not to be greater than the calculated specified maximum acceleration. The control unit adjusts the acceleration of the oscillating body depending upon the load torque of when the oscillating body 13 is accelerating or decelerating. |
| US08720865B2 |
Winch assembly
A winch assembly is described and shown herein. The winch assembly may include a first housing member having a first retaining member formed therein and a second housing member having a second retaining member formed therein, the second housing member secured to the first housing member forming a winch housing. The winch assembly may further include a drive system generally positioned within the winch housing, and a winch drum operatively coupled with the drive system and rotationally secured with the first and second retaining members. |
| US08720863B2 |
Apparatus for stringing a line underneath a cross member
A stringing apparatus for stringing a sock-line, optionally a phase line, within a closed framed opening of a power line tower of H-frame, portal or corset type uses a helicopter for pulling the sock-line where the stringing apparatus is suspended from the helicopter by a tow-line and the sock-line is fastened to it. The stringing apparatus comprises an arcuate channel which is attached to the sock-line and a rotating open spoke star-wheel defining legs the ends of which travel inside the channel and allows a continuous revolution of the star wheel thus allowing the closed frame cross member to travel through one of the gaps between the legs while the sock-line passes to the underside of the cross member and the tow line passes over the cross member. |
| US08720855B2 |
Ball valve having multiple moveable seats
Embodiments and methods are disclosed herein that relate to a valve assembly. The valve assembly includes a housing having a passage formed therethrough, and a valve ball having a through hole and disposed in the housing, in which the valve ball is rotatable between an open position that has the through hole aligned with the passage and a closed position that has the through hole misaligned with the passage. The valve assembly further includes a first seat having a first sealing surface and disposed in the housing adjacent to the valve ball, and a second seat having a second sealing surface and disposed in the housing adjacent to the first seat such that the first sealing surface of the first seat is disposed adjacent to the second sealing surface of the second seat. At least one of the first sealing surface of the first seat and the second sealing surface of the second seat comprises an arcuate surface. |
| US08720854B2 |
Floating ball valve seal with dynamic C-seal and static C-seal
A seal assembly is provided for a rotary ball valve having a top-mounted bonnet, thereby allowing the seal assembly to be installed and removed without removing the valve from the pipeline. In an embodiment, the seal assembly may include a seal ring disposed within the valve interior and biased toward the ball element of the valve. A seal carrier may be disposed between the seal ring and the valve body, and the seal carrier may be removably secured to the valve body by a plurality of bolts disposed in the valve interior. A primary leak path may exists between the seal ring and the seal carrier and a secondary leak path may exists between the seal carrier and the valve body. A first and second auxiliary seal may prevent fluid flow through the primary and secondary leak path, respectively. |
| US08720853B2 |
Container treatment machine and delivery pipe section
A container treatment machine with a tank and spaced-apart valve housings, wherein a pressure-resistant delivery pipe having a curved section is provided between the tank and each valve housing directly or via an intermediate flow regulator, the delivery pipe being composed, at least in its curved section, of a hard plastic which is pressure- and temperature-resistant, and is acid- and alkali-resistant and permissible for foodstuffs, in particular polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE or Teflon). |
| US08720852B2 |
Procedure for positioning the actuating drive in a fuel injector and device for performing the procedure
The positioning of the actuating drive in a fuel injector with a piezoactuator (2) that is screwed into the housing (1) of the fuel injector is performed by applying a voltage (U) to the piezoactuator (2) that corresponds to a given idle stroke (h), and the surface grinding of the housing (3) and base plate (4) of the piezoactuator (2) when voltage is applied. Between the housing (1) of the fuel injector and the housing (3) of the piezoactuator (2), there is also provided a compensation collar (9) of a suitable thickness. |
| US08720848B2 |
Apparatus for securing a portable electronic device
A securing device for securing portable electronic devices and the method of using the securing device are disclosed. The securing device has a plate assembly, a post assembly and a main bar. A portable electronic device is inserted in-between the plate assembly and the main bar. Thereafter, the post assembly is rotated from a first position to a second position which is perpendicular to the length of the plate assembly. While in the second position, the post assembly prevents the rearward movement of the portable electronic device. The main bar prevents the upward movement of the portable electronic device. The plate assembly has a recessed profile that allows airflow through the bottom portion of the portable electronic device while being secured with the securing device. |
| US08720847B2 |
External articulation mechanism with a noise-dampening support element
An external articulation mechanism for pivotably holding the backrest of a vehicle seat on the vehicle. A receiving element can be secured to the vehicle and has a support opening and side walls defining an introduction slot that opens into an open side of the support opening. A pivot member securable to the backrest can be inserted into the support opening via the introduction slot. An arresting mechanism on the receiving element extends over the open side of the support opening and is pivotable between release and arresting positions. A support element disposed on the pivot member has an extension that juts into the introduction slot and that on both sides has deformable projections for resiliently engaging recesses of the side walls of the receiving element. |
| US08720845B2 |
Wear compensator for a pivoting detent joint
A wear compensator for a pivoting detent joint comprising a carrier base having a bearing housing and a bearing ring disposed in an interior channel of the bearing housing. A pivot cylinder is carried in the interior channel bearing against the bearing ring. An inner cone slidably carried in a cylinder recess of the pivot cylinder. A biasing element forcing the inner cone into the cylinder recess to biases the cylinder wall against the bearing ring. A support arm pivotally mounted to the bearing housing including a lower pivot block receiving and supporting the pivot cylinder in the interior channel, and an upper pivot block having an arm detent ring engaging a base detent ring carried by the bearing housing. Accordingly, the pivot cylinder rotates on the bearing ring and the arm detent ring rotates on the base detent ring to adjust the position of the support arm. |
| US08720844B2 |
Structure for coupling items such as signs and cameras to a fixed support structure
A structure is provided for coupling items such as signs, birdhouses and cameras to a fixed support structure is disclosed. Various mechanisms for attachment to a variety of supporting structures are described. The structure firmly holds an item in place, and the structure is capable of secure attachment to a variety of supporting structures. |
| US08720843B1 |
Protective cover
A protective cover structure includes a bottom plate, a coupling plate and a top lid. Two opposite edges of the coupling plate are respectively connected to the bottom plate and a top lid. The bottom plate, coupling plate and top lid are foldable with respect to one another. The bottom plate includes a first bottom board and second bottom board being foldable to each other. A buckling tongue for holding an electronic device is disposed on the first bottom board, and a covering element covering and positioning the electronic device is disposed on the second bottom board. An electronic device can be covered and positioned through the arrangement of the buckling tongue and covering element. When intending to operate the electronic device, a user lifts the top lid and folds and positions it under the bottom plate, or disengage the buckling tongue to release the electronic device, thereby supporting the electronic device in a standing-up use. |
| US08720841B2 |
Clamp assembly
A clamp assembly including a base member, wherein the base member includes a top surface and a bottom surface, and wherein at least one of the top and bottom surfaces is adapted for fixed or releasable association with a substrate; a first support arm, wherein the first support arm includes an inner surface and an outer surface, and wherein the first support arm is displaceable along a first axis, a second support arm, wherein the second support arm includes an inner surface and an outer surface, and wherein the second support arm is displaceable along the first axis, and wherein the first and second support arms are biased such that the inner surfaces of the support members contact each other at a first contact point. |
| US08720840B2 |
Container-supporting apparatus
A container-supporting apparatus includes a housing, a holder, a cup-supporting body, a flap, an elastic member for urging the flap in a direction of an insertion hole, a shaft part provided on either (for example, the flap) of the holder or the flap, and a shaft-bearing part provided on the other (for example, the holder) and provided with a shaft-bearing part capable of receiving the shaft part. When the holder is stored in the housing, the cup-supporting body contacts the flap whereby the shaft part moves inside the shaft-bearing hole of the shaft-bearing part. |
| US08720839B2 |
Connector for panel members
Aspects of the invention are directed to a connector that connects a first flat member and a second flat member. The connector can include a support portion, a first arm, connected to the support portion, and defining a first arm channel. The connector can also include a second arm, connected to the support portion, and defining a second arm channel, the second arm being apart from the first arm. An opening is defined, in part, by an edge of the support portion, and edge of the first arm and an edge of the second arm. Also, the first arm channel an the second arm channel and the support portion are shaped and configured such that the first flat member can be positioned, in part, within the first arm channel, and extend through the opening, and the second flat member can be positioned, in part, in the second arm channel. |
| US08720838B2 |
Articulating monitor arm with chain and spring
The present application teaches an extension arm including an articulating portion that approximately counterbalances the mass of the articulating portion and any objects connected thereto, for example an electronic device, throughout the positional range of the articulating portion, via the operation of a counter-balancing mechanism. In some embodiments according to the disclosed inventive concepts, the counter-balancing mechanism employs a spring coupled to a chain at a first end, the chain being connected at its opposite end to a pivoting member with which it interacts to support the articulating portion of the extension arm and any objects connected thereto. |
| US08720837B2 |
Support frame for electronic device
A support frame for supporting an electronic device includes a fixing base for grasping the electronic device, two support assemblies, an angle adjusting mechanism connecting the fixing base to the support assemblies, and an adjusting plate. The angle adjusting mechanism includes a connecting member, a mating member, and an adjusting assembly. The connecting member is connected to the support assembly. The adjusting assembly includes an adjusting shaft and an adjusting cap engaged with the adjusting shaft. The connecting member and the mating member are sleeved on the adjusting shaft. The adjusting plate is sleeved on the adjusting shaft, and positioned between the connecting member and the mating member. |
| US08720834B2 |
Bag support and holding device
A hoop for holding a bag comprises a hoop strip having a first end, a second end and a central portion between the first and second ends. The hoop strip being comprises a resilient material. A first loop member attaches to the first end of the hoop strip, defining a channel which receives slidably therein the central portion of the hoop strip. A second loop member attaches to the second end of the hoop strip, defining a channel which receives slidably therein the central portion of the loop strip. The first and second loop members keep the hoop strip generally circular, but it can be adjusted so as to have a plurality of circumferences by sliding the central portion of the hoop strip within the first and second loop members. The hoop may also comprise a handle for holding the hoop, and a base. |
| US08720833B2 |
Lawn bag apparatus
A lawn bag apparatus to stabilize an opening of a lawn bag is disclosed, comprising a frame comprising a plurality of sidewalls arranged to approximate the opening, each sidewall comprising a midwall portion extending approximately vertically, an upper wall portion extending upwardly and outwardly from the midwall portion, and a lower wall portion extending downwardly and inwardly from the midwall portion, a first clamp positioned along one of the sidewalls, and a second clamp positioned along a sidewall opposite the first clamp, the first and second clamps being movable between an open, disengaged position and a closed, engaged position for detachably securing the frame to the lawn bag. |
| US08720832B2 |
Fastening element for elongated material
A fastening element for fastening elongated materials in a motor vehicle with an anchoring part, which engages in the wall, to which the fastening part is attached, is proposed. The anchoring part has two spreading arms and a seal which circularly surrounds the anchoring part. |
| US08720829B2 |
Closable counter-measure compartments for a dispenser unit
A dispenser unit including a plurality of compartments, each being adapted for storing and launching a payload and including an opening through which the payload is launched by a control unit/. A door is associated with the opening and is driven by a driver. The dispenser unit includes one common door being arranged in such way that it is drivable to cover the openings of the compartments from which the payloads have been launched. |
| US08720828B2 |
Extended plug cold plate
Heat exchange systems, devices and methods are provided. A particular heat exchange device includes a housing defining an inlet and an outlet. The heat exchange device also includes at least one ceramic foam member inside the housing. The at least one ceramic foam member defines a plurality of pores. The heat exchange device also includes a plurality of extended plugs that extend from a first side of the housing through the at least one ceramic foam member to a second side of the housing. The first side of the housing is spaced apart from the at least one ceramic foam member by first ends of the plurality of extended plugs. |
| US08720824B2 |
Joining arrangement for the lateral boxes of a horizontal tail stabiliser with a tubular central box and manufacturing method for said box
Joining arrangement for the lateral boxes (11, 11′) of a horizontal tail stabilizer with a central tubular box and manufacturing method for said box. The boxes (11, 11′) are joined using an intermediate joining part (31) that comprises a central box (33, 63, 73), upper (35, 35′) and lower (37, 37′) lateral flaps, fitting plates (A) for the trimming device and fitting plates (B) for the pivoting device, the join being made with rivets between the skins (15, 15′; 17, 17′) of the lateral boxes (11, 11′) and said flaps (35; 35′; 37; 37′). The method for manufacturing the intermediate joining part (31) comprises steps to: a) Provide preforms suitable for forming said part (31); b) Form and cure the part (31) made from said preforms using an RTM method. |
| US08720822B2 |
Wing load alleviation structure
A wing load alleviation structure for use on an aircraft, comprising a front spar, wherein the front spar includes a plurality of alternating rigid spar structures and inflatable spar structures; and a rear spar, wherein the rear spar includes a plurality of alternating rigid spar structures and pivot joints, such that when a load is applied to the front and rear spars, deflection of each of the front and rear spars continues at a first rate until a critical load is reached, and then as the loading increases, deflection of each of the front and rear spars continues at a second rate. |
| US08720819B2 |
Passenger seat, in particular aircraft passenger seat
The invention relates to a passenger seat, in particular an aircraft passenger seat, comprising seating components such as a seat section (3) and a backrest (1), which is located on a backrest frame (7) and has at least one support section (15) that supports the relevant part of the body of the seat occupant, said section being displaceable in relation to the backrest frame (7) by means of an adjusting device (25). Said seat is characterized in that a web (15) constitutes the displaceable support section, said web extending between the lateral edges (5) of the backrest frame (7) and being suspended by its upper edge (17) from the backrest frame (7) and engaging at its lower end (23) that adjoins the seat section (3) with the adjusting device that is configured as a tensile device (25). The tensile device is used to exert a tensile force on the lower end of the web (15), in order to pull the web (15) forwards by said lower end (23) from a position in which it lies longitudinally against the backrest (1). |
| US08720816B2 |
Unmanned aerial vehicle
The present invention relates to an aircraft with a surveillance system characterized in that the direction of flight towards a target is achievable by shifting the center of gravity of the vehicle towards the target. The center of gravity is shifted towards the target by pointing the surveillance system at the target. |
| US08720814B2 |
Aircraft with freewheeling engine
An aircraft may have a fuselage, a left wing extending from the fuselage, a right wing extending from the fuselage, a tail section extending from a rear portion of the fuselage, and a first engine and a second engine operably connected by a common driveshaft, wherein the first and second engines are configured for freewheeling such that if one of the first and second engines loses power the other of the first and second engines continues to power the aircraft. |
| US08720808B2 |
Systems and methods for preparation of medications
A pill is divided using a pill splitter and crusher device having a first member coupled to a second member. The first member comprises a pill-receiving cavity and the second member comprises a blade and an anvil. In some contemplated embodiments, the anvil is configured to crush a pill placed within the cavity and the blade is configured to split the pill within the cavity. Furthermore, the anvil is coupled to the second member, such that the anvil could move from a crushing position to a non-crushing position, which allows for crushing and splitting of the pill, respectively. |
| US08720805B1 |
System and method for cooling a densifier
Exemplary embodiments relate to a system for cooling a compression screw that includes a compression screw. The system may include a hollowed shaft, a tubular body extending through a proximal end portion to a distal end portion of the hollowed shaft, at least one flight, including a chamber in fluid connection with the tubular body, and a rotary union connected with the compression screw shaft, which is adapted to allow fluid to flow from a relatively stationary inlet into the compression screw such that fluid is adapted to be circulated through the tubular body and the at least one flight for cooling the compression screw. |
| US08720803B1 |
Multiple-line irrigation system and method
A multiple-line irrigation system includes a plurality of spans extending from a central pivot, a first pipeline for carrying water, and a second pipeline for carrying chemicals. Each span includes a distribution assembly which draws water and chemicals from the first and second pipelines independently of distribution assemblies in the other spans so as to distribute the water and chemicals as a mixture onto a field according to the requirements of the field under each span. Auxiliary lines coupled to the pipelines in the distribution assembly in each span include valves to regulate the supply of water and chemicals from the pipelines. |
| US08720802B2 |
Fuel injection valve for internal combustion engines
The invention relates to a fuel injection valve for internal combustion engines having a valve body in which a blind hole is formed, with at least one injection opening proceeding from said blind hole. A longitudinally displaceable needle in the valve body has a valve sealing face formed at its end which faces towards the blind hole. The valve sealing face is formed from one or more conical faces, and the valve needle interacting, by means of a body seat, with said valve sealing face to control a fuel flow to the at least one injection opening. A needle tip adjoining the valve sealing face dips into the blind hole when the valve needle bears against the body seat, the needle tip being curved in a concave fashion directly adjacent to the valve sealing face. |
| US08720798B2 |
Drywall spray gun
The present invention is a drywall spray gun that disperses drywall material that includes a funnel-shaped hopper, a casing that houses a flip lever and a fan, a slide lock trigger and a trigger shield that protects the slide lock trigger from being struck or touched unintentionally and a rechargeable battery pack. The spray gun also includes a removable motor, a forearm rest, an adjustable nozzle and a corresponding stand with a bottom base, an upright vertical backing and a c-shaped top that secures the drywall spray gun in place while the drywall material is poured into the hopper. |
| US08720797B2 |
Rotary atomizing head, rotary atomization coating apparatus, and rotary atomization coating method
A rotary atomizing head 1, which has an inner peripheral surface 2 whose diameter increases from a bottom 21 of the inner peripheral surface toward a tip thereof, and atomizes and releases paint by applying a centrifugal force generated by rotation to the paint supplied to the bottom of the inner peripheral surface, includes a paint supply nozzle 11 for supplying the paint and a cleaning solution to the bottom of the inner peripheral surface, and the paint supply nozzle has a nozzle hole 10a for discharging the paint and the cleaning solution from a rotation center O portion of the rotary atomizing head in a direction substantially perpendicular to a rotation axis of the rotary atomizing head. The rotary atomizing head 1 also includes a dam portion 4 that is provided in an intermediate portion between the bottom and the tip of the inner peripheral surface and dams the paint and the cleaning solution supplied from the paint supply nozzle to the bottom and flow along the inner peripheral surface toward the tip. |
| US08720796B2 |
Rotary atomizing head type coating device
A rotation restricting mechanism is provided between a mounting shaft section of a rotational shaft and a mounting tube section of a rotary atomizing head. The rotation restricting mechanism includes a male spline member provided on the outer peripheral side of the mounting shaft section, and a female spline member provided on the inner peripheral side of the mounting tube section. By meshing engagement of the male spline member with the female spline member, the rotation restricting mechanism restricts rotational displacements of the rotary atomizing head relative to the rotational shaft. |
| US08720792B2 |
Ballast retaining structure, tool jig, and bedded track
A ballast retaining structure according to the present invention is a ballast retaining structure in which ballast laid on the roadbed is tamped to thereby retain a track bed extended in an extending direction of the roadbed from a transverse direction thereof, and includes a layered body formed by a plurality of bag-like objects, each being formed in a bag shape and containing the ballast, which are stacked from a toe of slope to a top of slope of the track bed such that each of the bag-like objects is tilted to decline from an outer end portion to an inner end portion thereof. |
| US08720791B2 |
Utility-driven energy-load management with adaptive fan control during load-control events
An adaptive-fan-control (AFC) communicating thermostat for controlling an electrical load and controlling an HVAC circulation fan during a load control event. The thermostat interrupts and overrides an occupant-selected fan setting of the thermostat. The AFC communicating thermostat includes a controller in communication with a temperature sensor and the occupant-selectable fan control. |
| US08720787B2 |
Composite RF tag, and tool mounted with the composite RF tag
The present invention relates to a composite RF tag for transmitting and receiving information using an electromagnetic induction method, comprising a magnetic antenna mounted with an IC, and a resin layer formed around the magnetic antenna, wherein the magnetic antenna comprises a central core formed of a magnetic material and a coil-shaped electrode material disposed around the core. The RF tag according to the present invention comprises the magnetic antenna surrounded by the resin, and therefore can provide a composite magnetic RF tag which can minimize adverse influence by surrounding water or metals in view of maintenance of tools or parts to which the composite RF tag is mounted, and is free from occurrence of any failure or cracking. |
| US08720783B2 |
Device and system for processing image data representing bar codes
A device for processing image data relating to bar codes is described. In one embodiment a bar code verification device is provided having an ergonomic form factor characterized by a domed hand held trigger and a viewing window. The verification device may be disposed in a network that includes a host processor system and other bar code reading devices which may include other bar code verification devices. Processing circuitry for processing image signals corresponding to printed bar codes may be partially disposed within the hand held verification device and partially disposed within a host processor system spaced apart from and associated with the hand held verification device. The hand held verification device may be in wireless communication with the host processor system to which it is associated. The bar code verification system may include signal enhancement modules which interpolate constructed pixel values from actual pixel values and which correct for signal degradation resulting from high frequency spatial sampling. |
| US08720781B2 |
Image reader having image sensor array
An image reader can include an image sensor array. An image reader in one embodiment can include an optical system capable of directing light reflected from a target onto the image sensor array. An image reader can be used for reading a dataform. |
| US08720780B2 |
Systems, devices, and methods for displaying a barcode at a computing device
Embodiments of the systems, devices, and methods described herein generally facilitate the display of a barcode at a computing device for capture by another computing device. In accordance with one example embodiment, a barcode is generated at a first computing device, the barcode is displayed on a display screen associated with the first computing device, and one or more display properties of the barcode are dynamically modified while it is displayed at the first computing device until the barcode is successfully captured (e.g. by a camera) at a second computing device. |
| US08720773B2 |
Method and apparatus for distribution of money transfers
A method for performing transactions comprises receiving registration information and money transfer transaction specifications, generating a distribution profile based on the registration information, and storing the money transfer transaction specifications in the distribution profile. The distribution profile is identified based on an initiation instruction and associated user authentication data, and one of the money transfer transaction specifications in the distribution profile is identified based on the initiation instruction. Payment source status is verified according to the identified money transfer transaction specification, and a staged send transaction is initiated, based on the payment source status at the time the send transaction is initiated. |
| US08720772B2 |
Tube verifier
There is provided a tube connector for connecting between a fluid sampling tube and a fluid analyzer, the tube connector includes an end face adapted to identify the tube connector, said end face comprising a reflecting surface having one or more reflective regions adapted to reflect light at a predetermined range of wavelengths. |
| US08720771B2 |
System and method for facilitating secure self payment transactions of retail goods
Disclosed herein are various embodiments for systems and methods for self-payment and verification of the purchase of retail goods and services. According to an embodiment of the invention, a method for verifying the purchase using a mobile electronic device in wireless communication with a payment verification system and a code generating system is provided, the method comprising the steps of: receiving from a consumer information identifying an item for purchase; receiving from a consumer information identifying payment means for purchasing the item for purchase; processing the information identifying the item for purchase and information identifying payment means and generating a unique QR code indicating a purchase of the item; sending the unique QR code to a mobile device for display by a consumer to the vendor of the item for purchase. |
| US08720770B2 |
Box partition set
A partition set for reinforcing a container's handles, the partition set including at least one interlocking subcomponent without hand holes and at least one interlocking subcomponent with two end panels with hand holes; the hand holes alignable with the container's hand holes; thereby providing reinforcement to the container's handles. Also, a container with hand hole reinforcement provided by the partition set. |
| US08720766B2 |
Surgical stapling instruments and staples
A surgical staple including a crown and a deformable member extending from the crown, the deformable member having a notch configured to cause the deformable member to bend at the notch when the staple is deformed from a first shape into a second shape. The crown of the surgical staple, in various embodiments, further includes a forming surface, or anvil, which is configured to deform the deformable member and/or guide a distal end of the deformable member when the distal end contacts the crown. |
| US08720761B2 |
Roof rack for a vehicle and method for fastening said roof rack
The invention relates to a roof luggage rack (2) for a motor vehicle, comprising at least one roof drip molding (3) provided with a fastening device (5) for the detachable installation on the roof of the motor vehicle. It is provided that the fastening device (5) is a sliding fastening device (6). The invention furthermore relates to a corresponding method for fastening the roof luggage rack (2). |
| US08720757B2 |
Low-profile storage apparatus for a motorcycle
Disclosed is a low-profile storage apparatus for a motorcycle. The low-profile storage apparatus comprises a base attachable to a motorcycle. The low-profile storage apparatus also comprises a shell supported about the base, and movable between a stowing position and an open position. The low-profile storage apparatus further comprises at least one storage compartment supported by an underside of the shell, the at least one storage compartment having an opening accessible upon the shell being positioned in the open position. |
| US08720755B2 |
Lockable holster retention system
A holster having a lever with a finger button portion and an engagement portion, wherein the engagement portion of the lever includes a locking projection extending from a second side of the engagement portion; wherein the lever is pivotally attached to the holster, approximately between the finger button portion and the engagement portion, such that the finger button portion is positioned above the frame/slide portion of the cavity and the engagement portion is positioned above the trigger guard portion of the cavity; one or more ridge segments positioned around at least a portion of the lever; and a lockout lever pivotably attached to the first side wall such that the lockout lever is able to be rotated between a locked position and an unlocked position, and wherein the lockout lever is positioned beneath the finger button portion of the lever when the lockout lever is in the locked position. |
| US08720754B2 |
Locking and quick release mechanism for handgun holsters
A mechanical mechanism which allows a holster to firmly support and hold steady a pistol or revolver, allowing a smooth and quick release of this locking mechanism when required on the draw. This mechanical mechanism can grip the gun only on the trigger guard area, achieving a solid grip and smooth release by means of a sliding block formed around the shape of the front end of the trigger guard, which slides sideways out of the way as the gun is drawn upwards. Tension adjustment is achieved by applying more or less pressure on this sliding block as it moves up in its track, while the gun is drawn upwards. Total locking is achieved by means of a rotating lever, which locks the sliding block in place, preventing it from moving up at all, when securing the gun is required. |
| US08720753B2 |
Handgun holster
A handgun holster has a shaped holster body with through cavity for inserting and withdrawing the gun, which is furnished with a support for attaching the holster to the user, with a trigger safety catch and with a security system against removal of the gun from the holster where, in each of the two side walls of the holster body, in the area designed for ensuring the position of the inserted gun, there is a specularly arranged recess in which a safety catch is lodged. This recess has an opening for passage of the functional part of the safety catch into the cavity of the holster in the area designed for positioning the trigger guard of the gun. The outer covering of the safety catch, in the resting position, fits against the outer peripheral surface of the recess, while the functional part of the safety catch is a flat projection whose outer perimeter is smaller than the outer perimeter of the covering of the safety catch, so that this covering bears against the shoulder formed along the inner perimeter of the recess. Each safety catch is positioned on a pin fastened into the corresponding side wall of the body of the holster. |
| US08720752B2 |
Carrying assembly and electronic device using the same
A carrying assembly which may be detachably secured to a housing of an electronic device is disclosed. The carrying assembly includes a body and a positioning member. The body includes an opening and a first positioning portion positioned on a first surface of the body. The positioning member includes a second positioning portion and a top portion connected thereto. The second positioning portion detachably engages with the first positioning portion. The top portion protrudes from a second surface of the body through the opening, the second surface being opposite the first surface. When the top portion is pressed, the second positioning portion is separated from the first positioning portion, and a relative position between the body and the positioning member may be adjusted, thereby adjusting the length of the belt. |
| US08720748B2 |
Full open disk dispensing closure
A dispensing closure is provided that includes a body portion and a flap portion. The body portion can include an end wall, a skirt that depends from end wall, and an opening about the same size as the end wall. The flap portion can include a lid having at least one dispensing opening and a disk that has one or more dispensing orifices. The disk is in rotatable contact with the lid. A lock portion can include a surface area formed on the flap portion. The lock portion can also include a first substantially vertical piece formed on a first side of surface area, a second substantially vertical piece formed on a second side of surface area, and a substantially horizontal piece formed at a bottom of the first substantially vertical piece and the second substantially vertical piece. |
| US08720742B2 |
Sales kiosk
This disclosure is directed to a sales kiosk, a kiosk system and a process for dispensing or ordering one or more target products or samples of the target products. This disclosure is further directed to a kiosk system having a plurality of the sales kiosks connected via wired or wireless connections. The sales kiosks can be particularly useful for dispensing samples of sales products, such as furniture, typically not suitable to dispense at the sales location; or customized products that need to be customized. The sales kiosk can further be useful for ordering sales products. The sale kiosks can provide advantages for seeing and experiencing the sales products even the sale products cannot be directly displayed or dispensed. The kiosk can be modular and can comprise one or more modules. |
| US08720740B2 |
Reclosable closure of a liquid container
The invention relates to a reclosable closure (100) of a liquid container, in particular a beverage can (200), comprising a lid (300) that closes the liquid container by way of a flanged edge (310) and comprising a cover (400), with the lid (300) having an outlet opening (320) which can be exposed by twisting the cover (400) arranged on the lid (300), and the lid (300) comprises at least one recess (360, 361) for accommodating at least one sealing means (430) between the lid (300) and the cover (400). |
| US08720739B2 |
Beverage can holder and cooler technology
A cooler for holding two cans, particular beverage cans containing beer, soft drinks or the like, in a stacked or tandem arrangement. The cooler holds the cans snuggly, keeping them safe from bumps and the like, and also insulates the cans to preserve cold or hot temperature of can contents as long as practicable. The cooler has a cylindrical configuration including a body with an open top, a closed bottom, and an interior space. The body has a cylindrical sleeve and a bottom, which is either in the form of a separate panel or unitary with the sleeve. The bottom has an aperture for preventing or reducing vacuum on the inside of the cooler. |
| US08720736B2 |
Storage box
A stackable and collapsible storage box (100) comprising a foldable wrapper (10) having side wall and end wall panels which are releasably retained within a peripheral channel (30a) on a separate base portion (30). The wall panels have lower extension portions (11, 12) that are folded upwardly to provide a double thickness and these lower extension portions have an upper edge (12a) or apertures (37) that engage with short protrusions (33) formed on an inner wall (32) of the channel to retain the panels. The end wall panels have upper first and second extensions portions (14a, 16) that are respectively folded inwardly and upwardly to provide a support edge (16a) to support hangers for hang files. The support edge can be strengthened with a channel section (19). The box can have a lid (50) has a ridge (53) to compliment channel (36) on the base portion to allow stacking. |
| US08720733B2 |
Cooking device with a cooking surface defined by a plurality of vertically moveable members
A cooking device includes a cooking surface defined by a plurality of vertically adjustable members. Each vertically adjustable member of the plurality of vertically adjustable members is independently movable between a retracted position and an extended position. In certain applications, the cooking device may further include a cooking base and a sidewall upwardly extending from the cooking base. |
| US08720731B2 |
Packaging container
A packaging container includes an outer container, a packaging bag, and an inner packing member. The outer container has a box-like shape and has a containing space and a passage opening. The packaging bag is contained in the outer container in a state in which the packaging bag contains an object. The packaging bag includes a containing portion, an opening portion formed in the containing portion and allowing the object to pass therethrough, and a handle portion graspable by a user. The inner packing member is disposed between the object and the passage opening and contained in the containing space. At least part of the handle portion is disposed on the passage opening side of the inner packing member, and the handle portion moves toward the passage opening together with the inner packing member when the inner packing member is being removed from the outer container. |
| US08720730B2 |
Lid saver and method
A device for flexibly retaining lids or tops to containers or receptacles. Flexible coil chord secures a container or receptacle to its lid or top. The device allows for flexibly securing a lid to its container or receptacle to reduce loss or damage that could be avoided by retaining them in proximity to each other. |
| US08720717B2 |
End closure with full panel opening
A container for food and beverages with a fully opening end panel is provided. An end closure of the container has a generally circular end panel defined by a score line. A rotational opening tool is providing for contacting the end panel and separating the end panel from the score line upon rotation of the tool. |
| US08720716B2 |
Closure with spring loaded tether docking
A closure for a container has an integral tether section of the closure skirt attached to a tamper band at frangible sections. In the open position, the tether section has a free length providing for a plurality of resiliently docked closure positions retaining the closure on the container and not interfering with the transfer of contents therefrom. |
| US08720715B2 |
Closure cap for a medicine container
A closure cap for medicine containers and the like, having a bowl-shaped outer part made of PE or PP having at least one exposable penetration opening and a sealing element made of a soft plastic covering said opening. In order to obtain a reliable tight connection between the outer part and the sealing element, the sealing element is tightly connected all around to a socket encompassing the circumference thereof by injection into the same, and .the socket is tightly welded around the entire circumference thereof to the outer part or otherwise tightly connected thereto. |
| US08720714B2 |
Combined beverage container opener and cover
A multi-purpose device is disclosed for opening beverage containers, such as glass bottles, plastic bottles and/or cans and for covering some open beverage containers having a neck, such as beverage bottles. The device includes a housing. The housing can represent various decorative forms of headgear. The housing includes a bottle cap remover and bottle retainer. For twist-off caps, a twist-off bottle cap remover can be provided that includes a cup-like guide member that can receive the cap of a beverage container. Ridges formed on and projecting outward from the surface of the cup-like guide member's inner circumference can be received by indentations between ridges typically found on the outer circumference of beverage container caps (e.g., bottle caps). By twisting the guide member, the twist-off cap becomes loosened for easy removal. The housing provides a user with the necessary leverage to facilitate application of twisting torque onto a twist-off bottle cap, or leverage necessary to pull a pop-off cap off of a bottle or cause a can-tab to perforate the upper surface of a can. The device can include at least one bottle cap opener (e.g. twist-off or pop-off) and a lift tab opener for standard soda can. The bottle retainer can be integrated within the decorative housing, should be formed of a flexible material that will enable the device to be retained at the neck of an opened beverage bottle, thereby enabling cover for an opened bottle. |
| US08720705B1 |
Ribbon rack
A ribbon rack includes a retention base and a removable member. The retention base preferably includes an elongated base, a first hook plate and a second hook plate. The first hook plate extends downward from a first end of the elongated base and the second hook plate extends downward from a second end of the elongated base. The first and second hook plates are bent upward to form first and second hook ends. The first and second hook ends are sized to receive the elongated member. At least one figurine preferably extends upward from the elongated base. At least two holes are preferably formed through the elongated base to attach thereof to a flat surface. A second embodiment of the ribbon rack includes the retention base and an offset removable member. A third embodiment of the ribbon rack includes the retention base and an offset pivoting member. |
| US08720704B2 |
Modular storage and display system
The present invention provides a modular system for at least one of displaying and storing at least one article. The modular system includes at least a pair of elongated support brackets; at least one elongated cross member and means for positioning each of the at least one elongated cross member and the at least said pair of elongated support brackets in a generally horizontal plane during use of the modular system. The at least a pair of elongated support brackets are disposed in a spaced apart parallel relationship with each other. The at least one elongated cross member is sized to at least span a distance between the at least pair of elongated support brackets. Additionally, the at least one elongated cross member may at least rest on a top edge of each of the at least the pair of elongated support brackets during use of said modular system. |
| US08720703B1 |
Apparatus for holding and drying brushes
Apparatus for holding and drying brushes includes two brush holder components alternatively connectable to form a first configuration wherein brushes are held with the applicator portions thereof above the handles and a second configuration wherein the applicator portions are below the handles. |
| US08720700B2 |
Server rack
A server rack includes an upper frame, a lower frame, and a support leg. The support leg connects the upper frame to the lower frame. An area is defined in the support leg. Each support leg includes a first outer wall, a second outer wall substantially perpendicular to the first outer wall, a first connecting wall extending perpendicularly from the first outer wall, a second connecting wall extending perpendicularly from the second outer wall. The first connecting wall is connected to the second connecting wall. A first recessed reinforcing portion is located in the first outer wall, and a second recessed reinforcing portion is located in the second outer wall. |
| US08720698B2 |
Seafood grading apparatus
A seafood grading apparatus that includes a first roller supported from the frame; a drive motor for rotating the first roller about a longitudinal axis thereof; a second roller also supported from said frame and constructed and arranged in juxtaposition to the first roller. The first roller has a helical outer surface, and the second roller is for driving about a longitudinal axis thereof and in unison with the first roller. An inlet port receives pieces of seafood for the purpose of the grading thereof and arranged relative to the rollers to dispose the seafood between the rollers. At least two receiving trays are disposed downstream of the inlet port for receiving different respective size seafood pieces. |
| US08720697B2 |
Screen securing device
A securing device for securing a screening panel to a support frame of a vibrating screen assembly. The securing device has a body with a securing means at one end and a stub at the lower end. The securing means is shaped to mate with a complementary securing cavity in the screening panel and has a hole that receives a pin located in the securing cavity. The stub may be threaded to engage the support frame. |
| US08720695B2 |
Grader with feed trough
A roller-type grader having adjustable, widening gauging passages between consecutive rotating grader rollers and an associated method for adjusting the gauging passages. A drive rotates all the rollers in the same direction on their axes. The ends of the rollers at each end are rotatably and pivotally suspended from adjustment yokes that are movable laterally in unison along tracks by an adjustment shaft. Positioning the yokes positions the ends of the rollers relative to each other. Minimum and maximum widths of the gauging passages at opposite ends of the rollers are adjusted by rotating the adjustment shafts. |
| US08720693B2 |
Semiconductor wafer storing container
A main body may have a cavity for storing a plurality of parallel semiconductor wafers and an opening for transferring one or more semiconductor wafer into or from the cavity. A covering body may be mounted detachably to the opening in order to close the opening. A gasket may seal between an edge portion of the covering body and an edge portion of the opening. The gasket may be configured such that, when the opening is closed by the covering body, a size of a deformation margin of the gasket is formed to be smaller in a region that seals a vertical edge portion of the opening orthogonal to the face of each semiconductor wafer than in a region that seals a horizontal edge portion of the opening parallel to the face of each the semiconductor wafer. |
| US08720689B2 |
Multi-tiered cupcake container
Tray includes a first base portion having an upper surface defining a first tier and a second portion having an upper surface defining a second tier. The first tier and the second tier are separated by a height. The upper surface of the first portion and the upper surface of the second portion each have a plurality of spaced-apart wells defined therein. Each well is sized and shaped to receive a food item and has an upper edge with an engagement recess formed therein. The engagement recess is sized to allow a food item within the well to be gripped for removal. The tray can further include a trapping feature to secure a lid, and thus form a container. |
| US08720687B2 |
Bakery tray
A tray includes a base having opposed front and rear walls and opposed side walls. The front and rear walls are shorter to provide access to products stored on the tray when in a stacked configuration. The tray includes reinforced intersections between the front and rear walls and side walls. |
| US08720683B2 |
Protective shell applicable to a handheld electric apparatus
A protective shell applicable to a handheld electric apparatus includes a back plate and a supporting plate. The back plate has a fixing portion and a first figure layer disposed opposite to the handheld electric apparatus. The supporting plate has a second figure layer, a connecting portion and a bendable portion. The second figure layer is disposed on the supporting plate. The connecting portion is disposed on the supporting plate for connecting with the fixing portion. The bendable portion is disposed on the supporting plate. In a first state, the supporting plate is provided to shield the first figure layer and the second figure layer is revealed to form a first expression figure. In a second state, the bendable portion is bent to reveal the first figure layer, so that the first figure layer and the supporting plate are combined to form a second expression figure. |
| US08720681B1 |
Quiet opening and closing binocular pouch
A quiet opening and closing clam shell pouch with a bag and a hinge connected lid, each of the pouch and lid having a peripheral wall, a soft compressible sleeve on the peripheral wall of the bag and surrounding an open mouth of the bag and on a peripheral wall of the lid; a solid shape defining and shaping member in each soft compressible sleeve shapes and holds open the mouth of the bag and shapes the periphery of the lid so that the lid can be pivoted to close the mouth of the bag; cooperating surfaces of magnets, enrobed in a soft net mesh, are spaced around the peripheral walls and alongside each soft compressible sleeve to pull the padded sleeves together and to compress the sleeves and soft strands of the net mesh that extend across the cooperating surfaces of the magnets. |
| US08720677B2 |
Bags partially filled with stimuli-responsive highly absorbent superabsorbent polymers for water management and replacement of dams and canals
Stimuli-responsive highly absorbent superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) are used to harness water to augment water supply and solve water crisis. Rain water, dew or sea water is harnessed in fabric-based sachets or bags partially filled with the polymers. The hydrated polymers are used to store water in warehouses for an extended period of time and the invention may obviate the need to construct controversial huge dams and canals or drill wells. The stored water in superabsorbent polymers is released at the point of use by any stimulus which may be light-induced, electrical, thermal or chemical treatment. SAPs with 2000 g/g of absorbency can yield 99.95% pure water in solid/gel form. An ultra SAP with absorbency of 10,000 g/g of the polymer could hold 10 billion cu·m. of water in one million tonnes of the polymer. This is more than the capacity of a typical large dam over a river. |
| US08720675B2 |
Belt as a traction mechanism for belt conveyors of agricultural machines
A belt as traction mechanism for conveyor bands of agricultural machines. A belt member of polymer reinforced with fabric plies has an upper step and a lower step that are interconnected in a region of overlap via connection locations that are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the belt. An inwardly disposed polymer layer is entirely absent in the region of overlap. The inner fabric plies of lower step and/or upper step extend into the region of overlap in a partial region that includes at least one connection location. The remaining fabric plies of upper step and lower step extend over the entire region of overlap, so that in the partial region the lower step and/or the upper step is provided with all of the fabric plies. Complementary tooth elements are provided on fabric plies that are disposed directly opposite one another in the region of overlap, and mesh with one another to effect interconnection of upper step and lower step. |
| US08720665B2 |
Coin feeding machine and coin handling machine
In a coin feeding machine 26 which uses a rotary disk 41 rotated at an inclined posture, a removal projection 59 for removing a smaller diameter coin is provided between a feeding projection 52 and a coin support portion 53 which are provided on a surface 41a of the rotary disk 41. The removal projection 59 is disposed to be positioned on the slightly outer side of the outer edge of a coin C when the coin C whose diameter is a lower limit value of a handling target range is brought into contact with the feeding projection 52 and the coin support portion 53. The side surface of the removal projection 59 is inclined relative to the surface of the rotary disk 41. When the coin is brought onto the inclined surface of this removal projection 59, the coin drops away from the surface 41a of the rotary disk 41. A coin C1 which is smaller than the lower limit value of the handling target range is brought onto the removal projection 59, so as to be dropped from the surface 41a of the rotary disk 41 and removed. |
| US08720663B2 |
Bill jam troubleshooting
A bill jam troubleshooting employed in a bill acceptor used in a consumer system includes the step of displaying an error message when a fake bill is identified by a sampling and validation module, the step of driving the transmission mechanism to carry the inserted bill back and forth over a validation zone repeatedly twice when a bill jam is detected, and the step of controlling the transmission mechanism to return the inserted bill to the bill slot. Thus, the invention improves the function and effect on the overall use of the product, and enhances the advantages and opportunities of commodity sales channels to increase product competitiveness. |
| US08720661B2 |
Clamping-roller freewheel for an adjustment device in a motor vehicle
A clamping-roller freewheel for an adjustment device in a motor vehicle includes a housing, a cylindrical lateral surface that defines an axis, at least one roller, an output shaft that is central to the axis, and a clamping contour which is located on the side of the roller opposite from the cylindrical lateral surface and rotationally connected to the output shaft. The clamping contour is a double clamping contour. The roller is allocated to the double clamping contour. The double clamping contour has a left and a right clamping area. A clamping action arises due to the cooperation of the roller with the left or right clamping area, depending on the direction of rotation, and the cylindrical lateral surface. |
| US08720660B2 |
Parking lock mechanism of power transmission apparatus
Disclosed is a parking lock mechanism of a power transmission apparatus which can stably supply lubrication oil to the sliding surface of a parking cam to decrease the sliding resistance of the parking cam. The parking lock mechanism 52 includes a support portion 73 for positioning a sleeve 71 with respect to an extension housing 6, and a first guide rib 74 provided on the support portion 73 for catching oil circulating in a transaxle case 4 to supply the oil to the support portion 73. The sleeve 71 has an upper portion formed with a notch 71c for allowing a parking pawl 62 to be held in abutment with a parking cam 61. The oil caught by the first guide rib 74 is supplied through the support portion 73 and the notch 71c of the sleeve 71 to the sliding surface of the parking cam 61, viz., the sliding surface between the parking pawl 62 and the parking cam 61 and the sliding surface between the parking cam 61 and the sleeve 71. |
| US08720659B2 |
Overrunning coupling and control assembly including an electromechanical actuator subassembly
An overrunning coupling or clutch and control assembly including first and second coupling members and an electromechanical actuator subassembly having an electromagnetically inductive coil which creates a magnetic flux when the coil is energized is provided. A control force caused by the magnetic flux is applied to an armature member of the subassembly to move the armature member and cause the coupling members to be either coupled to or uncoupled from each other by means of struts. |
| US08720658B2 |
Starting device and damper device for use therein
A starting device includes: a lock-up clutch mechanism; a fluid coupling; a spring damper including a spring, a power transfer portion transferring power from the lock-up clutch mechanism to the spring, and a power output portion transferring power from the spring to an input shaft; and a pendulum damper including a pendulum and a pendulum power transfer portion transferring power from the spring damper to the pendulum. The output portion of the lock-up clutch, the pendulum damper, the spring damper, and the fluid coupling are arranged sequentially in this order from a motor in the axial direction. The lock-up clutch mechanism output and the spring damper output are connected to each other on the outer circumferential side of the pendulum damper, and the spring damper output and the pendulum power transfer portion are connected to each other on the inner circumferential side of the pendulum. |
| US08720657B2 |
Rewindable electrical cable extension device
A rewindable electrical cable extension device includes a housing having first and second exit ports, and a cable having first and second ends defining opposing extremities of first and second contiguous cable sections having a common junction anchored to a rotating spool. The first end protrudes through the first exit port, and the second end is fixedly mounted in association with the second exit port. The first cable section is wound on a spool that is configured to rotate within the housing. The second cable section is wound in an opposite direction to the first section so that pulling on the first end unwinds and extracts the first cable section from the housing and uncoils the second cable section within the housing without rotating the second end of the cable. |
| US08720650B2 |
Hub assembly for a wheelchair
A hub assembly for a wheelchair has a hub device and a switch device. The hub device has a hub shell, an axle, a ring and a ratchet. The ratchet has a cylinder section. The cylinder section has a recess formed in an outer surface of the cylinder section. The switch device has a pin and a wire. The pin is capable of being selectively inserted into the recess. The wire is securely connected with the pin. Because the pin is inserted into the recess and the ratchet engages the ring, the hub shell along with a wheel cannot be moved unintentionally backward on a ramp. |
| US08720647B2 |
Bearing grease packer
A bench top bearing packer tool includes supply means for delivering a controlled amount of grease, support means for locating a bearing in a position where a bearing cage and rollers of the bearing may be lubricated with the grease delivered by the supply means, the supply means having a grease delivery outlet communicating with a grease delivery inlet of the support means by a grease flow passageway, and means for controlling the passage of grease through the inlet to the bearing cage and rollers of the bearing. |
| US08720645B2 |
Step stool and method
A folding step stool includes a front rail assembly. The step stool includes a rear rail assembly, pivotally connected to the front rail assembly, having a crossbar. The step stool includes a step pivotally attached to the front rail assembly having notches which fit over the crossbar when the stool is in an open position. The step stool includes a linkage assembly pivotally and fixedly attached to the step and pivotally and fixedly attached to the crossbar. The linkage assembly compresses to allow the notches to fit over the crossbar and the linkage assembly exerting a force to maintain the crossbar in the notches when the stool is in the open position. A method for securing a step stool includes the steps of moving the notches of a step against a crossbar of a rear rail assembly pivotally connected to a front rail assembly of the step stool. There is the step of compressing a linkage assembly pivotally and fixedly attached to the step and pivotally and fixedly attached to the crossbar to allow the notches to fit over the crossbar. There is the step of exerting a force with the linkage assembly to maintain the crossbar in the notches when the stool is in the open position. |
| US08720644B2 |
Aboveground pool child ladder safeguard device
A safety device designed to attach to a ladder used for accessing an aboveground pool to prevent small children from entering the pool unattended. The safety device is also designed for use as an emergency rescue flotation device. The safety device comprises a body portion made of a light weight floating material and an attachment portion for temporarily engaging the ladder and holding the safety device in place over a plurality of ladder rungs. In the event of a water emergency, the safety device may be used to extend the reach of a rescuer from a safe position without the need for the rescuer to enter the water. |
| US08720641B2 |
Metal panel assembly
A metal panel assembly that may be used in a number of different applications, particularly those that are concerned with improved stiffness and/or reduced vibration and noise. According to an exemplary embodiment, the metal panel assembly has a multi-layer or sandwich construction and includes a metal body layer, a sound damping adhesive layer, and a metal outer layer. The outer layer is bonded to the body layer via the adhesive layer and improves the stiffness and/or reduces vibrations in the metal panel assembly. The outer layer may include a number of contact sections that confront the body layer through the adhesive layer, as well as a number of raised sections that are spaced from the body layer and increase or otherwise improve the stiffness of the metal panel assembly. In one embodiment, the raised sections resemble channels and are generally arranged in a column-like pattern; in another embodiment, the raised sections resemble ribs and are generally arranged in a grid-like pattern. |
| US08720636B2 |
Motor vehicle having an electromotive unit and the power supply module thereof arranged in the vicinity of a running gear of the vehicle
A vehicle, particularly a motor vehicle, comprising at least one electromotive drive unit and a power supply module capable of supplying the electromotive drive unit, a running gear mechanically coupled to the electromotive unit, and a chassis attached to the body of the vehicle, in the vicinity of the running gear, onto which the electromotive unit and the power supply module are attached, characterized in that the chassis defines a platform attached below the body of the vehicle, between the body of the vehicle and a floor separating a useful space of the vehicle which is part of the passenger compartment or adjacent to the passenger compartment, and in that the chassis is capable of receiving and supporting the electromotive unit and the power supply module, wherein the electromotive unit and the power supply module are arranged on either side of the chassis. |
| US08720635B2 |
Vehicle having two generators
A vehicle includes an engine having a crankshaft, a charging generator disposed on the crankshaft, a power-supplying generator driven by the engine and including a rotating shaft misaligned from the crankshaft, and a vehicle power generating apparatus. The power generating apparatus includes a clutch unit and a driving unit. The clutch unit includes a clutch disposed on the crankshaft, a driving gear disposed on the clutch, and a switching mechanism operable for driving the clutch. The motion transmitting unit includes a driven gear meshing with the driving gear, and an input shaft driven by the driven gear and connected to and co-rotatable with the rotating shaft of the power-supplying generator. |
| US08720632B2 |
Two-wheeled motor vehicle
A motorcycle having high durability and a large space below a seat includes an internal space at least a portion of which is located between an engine unit and a seat provided in a cover member. The engine unit is pivotally suspended on a body frame. A center axis of a cylinder extends obliquely upward from a crankcase and forwardly. Oil reservoirs and provided in a bottom of a crank chamber and a bottom of a portion of a transmission chamber located in a front portion of a transmission case, respectively. The oil reservoirs are communicated with each other by a communication path. A bottom surface of the transmission chamber in the portion in which portion the oil reservoir is provided is located downward of the bottom surface of the portion rearward of the oil reservoir of the transmission chamber. |
| US08720627B2 |
Battery arrangement structure of vehicle
A battery is arranged at a specified position which is located on an outside of a front side frame in a vehicle width direction and between a front wheel and a crush can in a vehicle longitudinal direction. Accordingly, the battery can be positioned properly at a front portion of a vehicle so that the battery may not receive any improper thermal influence from an engine or a motor and not hurt the function of impact absorption in a vehicle frontal collision. |
| US08720625B2 |
Cooling system for electric apparatus
A vehicle includes a cooling system for electric apparatus that includes a lower cell, an upper cell that is disposed above the lower cell, and a converter that is disposed above the lower cell and that converts a voltage of electric power input to or output from the lower cell and the upper cell, in which the lower cell, the upper cell, and the converter are cooled by refrigerant, and the refrigerant inlets of the converter are disposed in the vicinity of a refrigerant outlet of at least one of the upper cell and the lower cell. |
| US08720621B2 |
Electrically driven vehicle
An electrically driven vehicle equipped with a battery usable for running in which a power generation unit of engine driven type that charges the battery is detachably mounted on a vehicle body, includes including a first connection part that brings a high-voltage system in which the battery and the power generation unit are electrically connected together into a connected state in a state in which the power generation unit is mounted in a mounting position and brings the high-voltage system into a disconnected state in a state in which the power generation unit is dismounted from the mounting position, whereby the first connection part switches a connection state of the high-voltage system in accordance with installation or removal of the power generation unit. The first connection part includes a connector on the vehicle side and a connector on the power generation unit side. |
| US08720620B1 |
Fuel cell powered vehicle that generates purified hydrogen gas on-demand from traditional liquid fuels
An automobile assembly and a method of producing hydrogen gas within an automobile assembly. An automobile is provided that contains a fuel cell. The fuel cell produces electricity from purified hydrogen gas. The vehicle also has a standard fuel tank that holds liquid fuel and a water tank that holds water. A fuel reformation system is carried by the vehicle. The fuel reformation system reacts water with liquid fuel to produce hydrogen gas and exhaust gases. The hydrogen gas is separated and is supplied to the fuel cell as needed by the fuel cell. The fuel cell produces electricity that drives electric motors to power the wheel of the vehicle. The vehicle, therefore, uses traditional liquid fuel to produce the hydrogen needed to operate the fuel cell and power an otherwise electric vehicle. |
| US08720618B1 |
Retrofitting a vehicle to transfer mechanical power out of an engine compartment
A vehicle is retrofitted with a secondary power generation system having a Mechanical Power Transfer System (MPTS) and an electrical generator. The MPTS transfers power from an engine crankshaft within an engine compartment to a generator shaft of the electrical generator disposed outside of the engine compartment. Retrofitting the vehicle with the MPTS allows the electrical generator to be attached to a portion of a chassis of the vehicle that is outside of the engine compartment. Attachment of the electrical generator outside the engine compartment avoids the tight space constraints and harsh operating conditions (high operating temperatures) within the engine compartment. Thus a larger, more powerful generator that requires less maintenance is realized. Additionally, the MPTS does not include any Power Take-Off mechanism, clutch system, or disengagement mechanism resulting in more efficient power transfer and in an overall increase in the amount of electrical energy generated than in conventional techniques. |
| US08720616B2 |
Wheeled object of the type adapted to be operated by a walking person
A wheeled object or vehicle, such as a hospital bed (10) comprises a main chassis or frame (12) supported by a plurality of supporting wheels or rollers (11), which define the vertices of a polygonal supporting surface (21). The bed, which is usually moved by a walking person, is provided with at least one motor driven driving device (15), including at least one driving wheel or roller (18), positioned within said polygonal supporting surface. The driving device is rotatable about a substantially vertical axis (14) in relation to the chassis or frame so as to change the angular position of the driving wheel (18) in relation to the chassis or frame. Biasing means, such as a compression spring or a pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder (22, 34) is provided for biasing the driving device (15) in a direction away from the main chassis or frame (12) and towards the supporting surface (21). The biasing force is controlled such that the driving device (15) id kept in close non-skidding contact with the ground or floor surface (21) without lifting the supporting wheels (11) out or contact with the supporting surface. |
| US08720607B2 |
Downhole tool having a friction stirred surface region
A method for hardening a portion of the outer surface of a downhole tool body includes friction stirring the vulnerable surface of the tool. Such friction stirring generally includes rotating a friction stir weld tool in contact with the surface until a portion of the tool penetrates the tool. The friction stir weld tool is then translated (while rotating) across a predetermined region of the surface thereby creating a friction stir zone. The friction stir zone is generally considerably harder, and therefore more wear resistant, than the parent material that makes up the tool body. The resulting downhole tool includes at least one surface with a hard friction stir zone. |
| US08720605B2 |
System for directionally drilling a borehole with a rotary drilling system
This disclosure relates in general to a method and a system for directionally drilling a borehole with a rotary drilling system. More specifically, but not by way of limitation, methods and system provide for controlling motion of the rotary drilling system in the borehole when a side force is applied to the drilling system to bias or focus the motion so that the drilling system directionally drills the borehole through an earth formation. In certain aspects, side cutting of a sidewall of the borehole by a drill bit under an applied side force is controlled by a geostationary element to provide for directional side cutting and, as a result, directional drilling of the borehole through the earth formation. In other aspects, a non-concentrically coupled gauge pad assembly may rotate with the drilling system and bias or focus the applied side force. |
| US08720602B2 |
Pulse generating device and a rock drilling rig comprising such a device
The present invention relates to a pulse generating device for inducing a shock wave in a tool, wherein the said pulse generating device comprises an impact means (201; 301) for transferring energy to a drill string (202) connected to the said tool, and wherein the energy transfer gives rise to the said shock wave, in which the said energy is mainly constituted by elastic energy stored in the impact means (201; 301) and/or an energy store. The device comprises control means for controlling the interaction of the impact means (201; 301) with the drill string (202), wherein the said control means for controlling the interaction of the impact means (201; 301) with the drill string (202) comprises a motor (207; 307), and wherein the said motor (207; 307) is designed to, through rotation, alternately open ducts for pressurization and depressurization of at least one drive surface (205) acting upon the said impact means. The invention is characterized in that the rotation axis of the said motor (207; 307) is arranged substantially coaxially with the drill string (202). |
| US08720601B2 |
Pressurised air pick device with variable control
Pressurized air pick device with variable control that comprises a cylinder and piston assembly for actuating a picking member, and a distribution portion with variable control of the pressurized air to said cylinder and piston assembly, the distribution portion including an upper body, a lower ring and a movable fluid-distribution slider capable of sliding between the body and the ring, characterized in that the distribution portion is housed in the cylinder of the cylinder and piston assembly at the upper portion thereof and coaxially therewith, the variable control for the fluid is housed in the head of the cylinder closing the upper portion of the cylinder connected to a fluid-supply section, and said upper portion of the cylinder includes two channels for conveying pressurized air in tight communication with the distribution portion through the radial channels thereof. |
| US08720597B2 |
Roller assembly for agricultural machinery
A roller assembly for agricultural machinery is disclosed. The roller assembly includes at least one tube onto which tires are threaded, and two arms adapted to support the tube in rotation at both its ends. Each arm carries a suspension lever housed inside the tube and acted upon by a resilient recoil member. The suspension lever is mounted on the arm so as to be pivotable about a first rotation axis and supporting a shaft end which carries a flange fixed to the inside of the tube for the rotation of this tube about a second rotation axis parallel to the first rotation axis. The roller assembly applies particularly to the rollers of seed drills. |
| US08720595B2 |
Depth limiting of ripper attachment by electronically limiting cylinder length
A ripper depth limit system and method that includes a lift input for operator controls to raise and lower the ripper, a depth limit input, a lift sensor input that senses the ripper lift cylinder position, and a controller that processes the inputs to generate, execute and revise ripper lift cylinder commands that keep the ripper above the ripper depth limit. The depth limit input can select the ripper depth limit from a plurality of predefined depth limits, or between minimum and maximum ripper depths, or by some other method. The ripper depth limit system can also include a pitch input for operator controls of ripper pitch, and a pitch sensor that senses ripper pitch cylinder position, and the controller can process the pitch inputs to generate, execute and revise ripper pitch and lift cylinder commands that keep the ripper above the ripper depth limit. |
| US08720584B2 |
Laser assisted system for controlling deep water drilling emergency situations
There is provided a high power laser riser blowout preventer system and controller for operation thereof. The system utilizes high power laser cutters that are associated with the riser and the blowout preventer to provided an integrated operation to quickly weaken or cut tubulars to address potential emergency and emergency situations that can arise during deep sea drilling. |
| US08720579B2 |
Emergency blowout preventer (EBOP) control system using an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) and method of use
An autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) may be programmed and launched to interface with an emergency blowout preventer which has been fitted, either when new or retrofitted, with an emergency BOP control system (EBOP). The EBOP is a “black box” drop-in solution for projects such as emergency well control that can be retrofitted to existing BOP systems or added to new BOP systems and comprises one or more control docking stations, each adapted to receive autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV); one or more interface units connected to the control docking station and used to provide an interface between the control docking station and a BOP; and the AUV which is dimensioned and configured to autonomously mate with the control docking station and effect controls of the BOP. |
| US08720576B2 |
Mounting a module on an underwater structure
A method of mounting a subsea control module (1) on a mounting plate (10) of an underwater tree of a subsea hydrocarbon well comprises lowering the module to the plate and attaching the module to the plate with an adapter (6) between it and the plate and with portions of the module being coupled with portions of the mounting plate. |
| US08720575B2 |
Shear laser module and method of retrofitting and use
There is provided a high power shear laser module, which can be readily included in a blowout preventer stack. The shear laser module as the capability of delivering high power laser energy to a tubular within a blowout preventer cavity, cutting the tubular and thus reducing the likelihood that the tubular will inhibit the ability of the blowout preventer to seal off a well. |
| US08720569B2 |
Iodide stabilizer for viscosified fluid containing iron
A composition of a treatment fluid and method for treating a zone of well. In an embodiment, the composition includes at least: (i) an aqueous phase; (ii) at least 5 ppm iron ion in the aqueous phase; (iii) a source of at least 5 ppm iodide ion to be dissolved in the aqueous phase; (iv) a water-soluble viscosity-increasing agent dissolved in the aqueous phase; and (v) a source of an oxidative breaker to be dissolved in the aqueous phase. In an embodiment, a method of treating a zone of a subterranean formation of a well includes at least the steps of: (a) forming a treatment fluid according to the composition; and (b) introducing the treatment fluid into the zone. |
| US08720566B2 |
Slot perforating tool
An apparatus including a body, a mandrel disposed at least partially within the body, and a spring. The spring maintains the mandrel in a retracted position within the body until a predetermined pump rate is applied. The spring allows the mandrel to move to an extended position when the predetermined pump rate is applied. The spring returns the mandrel to the retracted position within the body when the predetermined pump rate is removed. |
| US08720564B2 |
Tubular severing system and method of using same
Techniques for severing a tubular of a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation are provided. A blade is extendable by a ram of a blowout preventer positionable about the tubular. The blade includes a blade body having a front face on a side thereof facing the tubular. At least a portion of the front face has a vertical surface and at least a portion of the front face has an inclined surface. The vertical surface is perpendicular to a bottom surface of the blade body. The blade body includes a loading surface on an opposite side of the blade body to the front face. The loading surface is receivable by the ram. The blade also includes a cutting surface along at least a portion of the front face for engagement with the tubular, and a piercing point along the front face for piercing the tubular. The piercing point has a tip extending a distance from the cutting surface. |
| US08720562B2 |
Wellbore cementing compositions and methods of making and using same
A method of cementing a wellbore comprising preparing a wellbore cementing composition comprising a cementitious materials and a modified biopolymer additive wherein the modified biopolymer additive is the reaction product of a process comprising contacting a biopolymer and an organic carbonate to form a reaction mixture and subjecting the reaction mixture to a temperature of from about 100° F. to about 250° F. and placing the wellbore cementing fluid in the wellbore. A method of cementing a wellbore comprising contacting a modified biopolymer additive with a cementitious slurry to produce a wellbore cementing composition having an initial viscosity, v0; placing the wellbore cementing composition to a desired depth in a subterranean formation wherein the wellbore cementing composition has a transitional viscosity, vt, during placement in the subterranean formation and a final viscosity, vf, at the desired depth wherein vf≧vt>v0; and allowing the wellbore cementing composition to set. |
| US08720556B2 |
Methods for initiating new fractures in a completed wellbore having existing fractures present
Fracturing operations can be problematic in completed wellbores containing at least one existing fracture, since it can be difficult to seal an existing fracture and initiate a new fracture within a reasonable timeframe due to the presence of particulate materials in the wellbore. Methods for fracturing a completed wellbore can comprise introducing a treatment fluid comprising a plurality of degradable sealing particulates into a completed wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation having an existing fracture therein; sealing the existing fracture with at least a portion of the degradable sealing particulates, thereby forming a degradable particulate seal; after sealing, allowing any degradable sealing particulates remaining in the treatment fluid to degrade, such that the treatment fluid becomes substantially particulate free; and after the treatment fluid becomes substantially particulate free, fracturing the subterranean formation so as to introduce at least one new fracture therein. |
| US08720553B2 |
Completion assembly and methods for use thereof
A completion assembly for operation in a subterranean well having multiple production zones. The completion assembly includes a lower completion assembly operably positionable in the well. The lower completion assembly includes first and second zonal isolation subassemblies. An upper completion assembly is operably positionable at least partially within the lower completion assembly to establish fluid communication between first and second fluid flow control modules, respectively, with the first and second zonal isolation subassemblies. A first communication medium having a connection between the upper and lower completion assemblies extends through the first and second zonal isolation subassemblies. A second communication medium is operably associated with the first and second fluid flow control modules. Data obtained by monitoring fluid from the production zones is carried by the first and second communication media and is used to control production through the first and second fluid flow control modules. |
| US08720551B2 |
Well fluid leak detection and response systems
Embodiments of the inventive technology may provide a leaked fluid detection and response system in one aspect, and in another aspect, an environmental enclosure for at least a component of such leaked fluid detection system. Various embodiments of the leaked fluid detection and response system may provide wireless communication of detected leaks and a PLC that automates response and provides information regarding the presence of a leak. Enclosures may, in various embodiments, comprehensively surround enclosed components, thermally insulate enclosed components, include a leaked fluid capture basin, be aerodynamically streamlined, and/or be vermin-tight. |
| US08720544B2 |
Enhanced penetration of telescoping fracturing nozzle assembly
A fracturing jet nozzle assembly has nested telescoping sections that each have nozzles in them. The outermost stage makes for a large perforation as it and the adjacent stages begin extension. As the stage adjacent the outermost stage continues to extend into the perforation and reaches maximum extension the nozzles in the outermost stage are cut off from fracturing fluid flow and that flow is in turn redirected to the remaining stages that have not yet fully extended. The innermost stage preferably does not get cut off from jet fluid flow even at its full extension. |
| US08720543B2 |
Device for passive pressure sealing
A sealing system between a relatively rotating element and a stationary element has at least three sealing elements arranged between the rotating element and the stationary element and arranged in series between a process fluid and an environment, and a barrier fluid arrangement to provide a barrier fluid to spaces formed between the sealing elements. The barrier fluid arrangement has at least two compensator devices where under use the pressure in the process fluid is acting on one side of a piston in the compensator device and the pressure in the barrier fluid is acting on the opposite side of the piston. There is a difference between cross sectional areas of the two sides of the piston and the difference varies between the at least two compensator devices. |
| US08720538B2 |
Cold energy storage system for vehicle
A cold energy storage system for a vehicle includes an air-conditioning unit that includes an evaporator and a heater core. The system stores cold energy during a cooling operation and supplements the cooling operation by using the stored cold energy after stoppage of the cooling operation. A cold energy storage tank (50) connects in parallel to an engine cooling circulation circuit to the heater core. The storage tank (50) has a liquid storage layer (50A) for engine coolant and a refrigerant layer (50B) in which refrigerant from the evaporator flows. A mode switcher switches between a storing cold energy mode and a cooling supplement mode. In the storing cold energy mode, engine coolant stored in the liquid storage layer (50A) is refrigerated during the cooling operation. In the cooling supplement mode, refrigerated engine coolant from the liquid storage layer (50A) is introduced to the heater core. |
| US08720536B2 |
Heat exchanger having flow diverter
A heat exchanger including a tank with first and second ends defining a length and a cross-sectional area transverse to the length. An inlet orifice defined at the first end through which fluid flows in a first direction into the tank, the inlet orifice having a cross-sectional area transverse to the first direction. A voluminous region defined by boundaries which extend generally linearly from the circumference of the cross-sectional area of the inlet orifice to the circumference of the cross-sectional area of the tank. A plurality of conduits providing an outlet for fluid flow from the tank in a second flow direction at a non-parallel angle to the first flow direction. A flow diverter positioned within the voluminous region to direct a portion of fluid flow out of the region and distribute the total volume of fluid flow from the inlet substantially uniformly between the plurality of conduits. |
| US08720534B2 |
Heat exchanger, particularly for a motor vehicle
The invention relates to a heat exchanger, particularly for a motor vehicle, comprising a plurality of exchanger tubes (3) attached to at least one floor for conveying a first fluid, wherein the exchanger tubes (3) are disposed in a housing through which a second fluid flows, wherein a holding member (5) is disposed inside the housing, wherein at least two of the exchanger tubes (3) are supported relative to one another by means of the holding member (5). |
| US08720532B2 |
Controllable flow resistance in a cooling apparatus
An airflow control apparatus includes a controllable airflow resistance aligned with an airflow path of a plurality of airflow paths, a sensor capable of detecting an airflow condition in at least one of the plurality of airflow paths, and a controller. The controller is coupled to the controllable airflow resistance and to the sensor, and can control the controllable airflow resistance to manage airflow recirculation based on the airflow condition detected by the sensor. |
| US08720528B2 |
Method and device for casting a piston for an internal combustion engine
In a method for casting a piston for an internal combustion engine, after solidification of the surface layer in the region of the piston-pin bores (12), at least one mandrel provided there is withdrawn and the region of at least one piston-pin bore (12) is cooled by coolant supplied through at least one mandrel. A device for casting pistons for internal combustion engines has at least one mandrel which can be withdrawn from the region of a piston-pin bore (12) and through which a coolant for cooling the region of the piston-pin bores (12) can be supplied. |
| US08720527B1 |
Method for manufacturing a cast product having a photographic relief image; and, cast product
A method for manufacturing a cast product having a photographic relief image thereon is disclosed. The method includes steps of capturing a photographic image as a digital grayscale image, converting the digital grayscale image to a series of instructions for operating a laser engraving machine; laser engraving a pattern material to provide a pattern having a photographic relief image therein corresponding to the digital grayscale image and having a relief depth of about 0.030 inch to about 0.080 inch, wherein the relief depth refers to the maximum relief distance within the photographic relief image, and wherein the photographic relief image exhibits a true resolution corresponding to at least about 80 dpi; creating a mold cavity in sand using the laser engraved substrate; and casting a metallic material in the mold cavity to provide a cast product having the photographic relief image therein. |
| US08720518B2 |
Apparatus for bonding ribbon in a nonlinear pattern to a web
A ribbon applicator configured to guide ribbon to a web includes a support structure and a cantilever arm supported by the support structure. The cantilever arm is moveable through a range of motion relative to the support structure. A guide roller guides the ribbon onto the web. The guide roller is pivotally mounted on the cantilever arm for pivotal movement of the guide roller with respect to the cantilever arm. |
| US08720511B2 |
Run flat tire
A run flat tire which comprises a ply layer (4) disposed extending toroidally between a pair of bead cores and comprising ply coating rubber and ply cords, an inner liner layer (5) disposed circumferentially at an inner side of the ply layer, side reinforcing rubber layers (6) having an approximately crescent-shaped cross section and disposed in side portions of the tire between the ply layer and the inner liner layer and rubber sheets (7) disposed extending at interface of the ply layer and the side reinforcing rubber layer, wherein relations of t90>tp10 and t10 |
| US08720509B2 |
Tension device for a nonskid chain
In a tension device for a nonskid chain, a winding reel is supported, so that it can rotate about its axis inside the housing and is prestressed in the winding direction and has a gear rim with teeth arranged along its circumference. A tension line that can be retracted into the housing can be connected to the winding reel, such that a ratchet in a first position blocks a rotational movement of the winding reel in the tension direction by engagement of the ratchet in the teeth. Areas free of teeth on the circumference of the gear rim of the winding reel alternate with areas with teeth. |
| US08720508B2 |
Tread having a gradient of properties for improving irregular wear
This invention relates generally to treads having a configuration and/or properties for improving or preventing irregular wear on the tread of a tire, and, more specifically, to a tire that has a tread with a gradient of properties that helps to prevent or improve irregular wear, especially suitable for tires that are free rolling such as steer or trailer tires used on trucks. |
| US08720504B2 |
System for non-pneumatic support of a vehicle
A non-pneumatic tire includes a plurality of springs. Each spring includes a first end portion, a second end portion, and an arching middle portion. Each spring is interwoven with at least one other spring thereby forming a toroidal structure extending about an entire circumference of the non-pneumatic tire. The toroidal structure is at least partially coated with an elastomer. One end portion of at least one spring is wrapped around a first bead structure adjacent a rim. |
| US08720503B2 |
Apparatus and method for producing barrel staves
The present invention therefore provides an improved apparatus and integrated method for producing barrel staves. The apparatus measures the profile of unfinished stave workpieces and based on the width and shape of the stave, as well as other parameters such as the type of barrel that is required, the edges of the stave are trimmed accordingly. This ensures fewer rejected staves, less waste in that the width of the unfinished stave is continuously measured across its entire length with minimum depth of cut required, and most importantly, barrel staves having extremely accurate jointed edges ensuring superior finished barrels have an internal surface that is free from undesirable spacing between the staves, utilizing less labor than hitherto known apparatus. |
| US08720502B2 |
Nozzle for a refuelling probe
A nozzle includes a nozzle body having a nozzle tip for engaging a fuel hose coupling, the tip extending from the body, and a valve sleeve for opening and closing a fuel path between the tip and the body. The tip is mounted within the body on a flexible shaft, so as to accommodate misalignment between the nozzle and the fuel hose coupling. This eliminates the need for a bearing at the end of the shaft, which causes a pressure drop in the nozzle. The shaft is axially slidable in the mounting in a first portion of the nozzle body. The first and second portions of the body are joined with a weak link, which is frangible in the event of excessive load, to release the abutment and allow the nozzle tip to travel towards the body and close the fuel path. Thus a separate shut-off valve is not required. Also a pressure regulator sleeve moves out of the nozzle body towards the nozzle tip in the event of excessive fuel pressure. |
| US08720500B2 |
Electrical architecture for passive controller wake-up during refuel
A system and method for waking up a vehicle controller during a hydrogen gas refueling process for a high pressure hydrogen storage tank on a fuel cell vehicle. The system includes a first temperature switch mounted to the high pressure tank and enclosed within an insulation housing for monitoring the temperature within the tank and a second temperature switch for monitoring the temperature of the hydrogen gas at the refuel receptacle, where the second temperature switch is also enclosed within an insulation housing. If the temperature within the tank increases above a predetermined temperature, the first switch will close, and if the temperature at the refueling receptacle falls below a predetermined temperature, then the second switch will close, which causes a wake up signal to be provided to the controller to allow the controller to monitor the temperature of the tank. |
| US08720499B2 |
Automated fuel quality detection and dispenser control system and method, particularly for aviation fueling applications
A fuel quality monitoring system and method to automatically and/or continuously monitor quality of fuel dispensed and control the operation of the fuel dispenser. The control system monitors fuel quality to prevent unsafe refuelings when the fuel quality is unacceptable. In one embodiment, a combination of a differential pressure sensor, a water detector, and/or a particle monitor is employed inline the fuel flow path of a fuel dispenser, and in particular an aviation refueling truck, to monitor the quality of the fuel. If fuel quality is at an acceptable level although not ideal, the control system can allow fueling with the generation of reports and alarms. If the fuel quality is unacceptable, fuel flow can be stopped. If the differential pressure across the filter indicates a high degree of debris and/or water retention, the control system can automatically lower the flow rate to reduce the risk of filter breakdown without completely preventing fueling until the filter can be replaced. |
| US08720497B2 |
Direct fill dry powder systems with dosing heads configured for on/off controlled flow
Apparatus for dispensing a defined amount of dry powder concurrently to a plurality of spaced apart dose receiving containers include: (a) a dosing head comprising a support body with a plurality of spaced apart elongate channels having a channel length with an upper end defining an entry orifice and a lower end defining an exit port; (b) a dry powder bed residing above and in communication with the dosing head; and (c) at least one vibration source in communication with the dosing head channels configured to controllably apply a vibration flow signal, wherein, when the vibration flow signal is applied to the dosing head channels, dry powder from the dry powder bed flows through the elongate channels and out the exit port and when the flow signal is removed, dry powder does not flow through the dosing head elongate channels. |
| US08720493B2 |
Filling a food product into container on a slat conveyor
The invention relates to the filling of a frozen dessert product in a container, by performing the steps of: arranging at least one container to be filled on a slat conveyor, moving the container on the slat conveyor towards a dispensing nozzle, vertically displacing at least one slat supporting the container, and horizontally displacing the slat supporting the container in a direction perpendicular to the transport direction of the slat conveyor, while dispensing the product from the dispensing nozzle into the container. |
| US08720492B2 |
Selection device for the shed-forming device of a weaving machine
A selection device for a shed-forming device of a weaving machine has an electromagnetic selector (11) with at least two poles (P1), (P2), . . . (Pn) and a selection element (1), (2); (25), (26); (40), (41) which is located in a cooperating position with a zone (50) alongside at least two poles (P1), (P2), . . . (Pn) and is retained at a holding distance (A) from this zone (50), in which the selector (11) with each adjacent pole (P1), (P2) can exert a magnetic force on the zone (50), and in which the zone (50) extends over a distance (Z) that is shorter than the coil length (S), while the holding distance (A) is at least equal to half the positionable length (L) of the selection element. |
| US08720491B1 |
Tube liner
A tube liner for repairing a damaged or worn out auger tube or pneumatic conveyor tube. The tube liner includes an elongated liner body with a longitudinally extending gap and expandable seam assembly positioned in the gap. Once the liner is inserted into the auger tube or pneumatic conveyor tube, the expandable seam forces the liner against the inside wall of the auger tube or pneumatic conveyor tube to provide a tight seal. |
| US08720490B1 |
Device for reducing deep sea off-shore oil pipe leaks and related method of use
A tubular assembly to engage a leaking pipe under water includes an insert, a triangular shaped front guide, an outer annular sleeve, and a fluid supply assembly. The insert is hallow, tubular in shape and construction, and includes a first end, second end and an exterior surface containing a plurality of inflatable bladders and flanges. The front guide attaches to the first end of the insert, and includes a retarder tube to collect fluid from the leaking pipe. The outer annular sleeve is sized to surround both the insert and the leaking pipe, and includes retaining bolts capable of engaging the leaking pipe. The fluid supply assembly fills each inflatable bladder and includes a supply line, a distribution tube, a plurality of feed lines that communicates with each inflatable bladder via an injector, and check valves placed between each inflatable bladder and each feed line. |
| US08720480B2 |
Flush water supply device, flush water tank assembly with flush water supply device, and flush toilet with flush water tank assembly
A flush water supply device includes: a water supply valve for switching between a water supplying state and a water stopping state with respect of an inside of the flush water tank; a refill water system on a downstream side of the water supply valve and adapted to allow flush water to be supplied to the flush water tank, and further supplied to a toilet main body as refill water, wherein the refill water system includes a common passage-forming portion which forms a common passage having: an inlet port for allowing inflow of the flush water therethrough; a tank-side outlet port for allowing the flush water to flow out toward the flush water tank therethrough; a main unit-side outlet port for allowing the flush water to flow out toward the toilet main body therethrough; and a vent port; and a vacuum break valve in the common passage-forming portion. |
| US08720479B2 |
Lockout device for manually operated selector valve
A one piece valve lockout device for use with a quarter turn, rotary selector valve that is closed at the one-eighth turn position and is mounted on a common assembly with a manually operated pump. The device includes parallel ears configured in a U shape, used to secure the device to the pumping assembly. The ears are oriented 45 degrees from a locking arm. The locking arm has two parallel plates extending downward around a valve handle. The parallel plates have pairs of aligned holes in which a padlock can be inserted, preventing unauthorized removal of the device. |
| US08720477B1 |
Drain assembly
A drain assembly includes a closing element having a lower surface and one or more floating elements extending from the lower surface. A receiver element has an inner ring and an outer ring and one or more receptacles disposed between the inner ring and outer ring. The receptacles receive corresponding floating elements and the receiver element has one or more inlet openings associated with the outer ring and one or more outlet openings associated with the inner ring. The one or more inlet openings receive a liquid to fill the receptacles to provide a lifting movement to the one or more floating elements within the corresponding one or more receptacles to lift the closing element. As the closing element lifts, the one or more receptacles fill with the liquid and drain the liquid from the one or more outlet openings. |
| US08720476B2 |
Portable ram block changer
An apparatus for engaging and moving a ram block. In some embodiments, the apparatus, or ram block changer, includes a support bracket coupled to a blowout preventer and an articulated arm releasably coupled to the ram block. The ram block changer may further include a pivot coupling assembly having a first axis of rotation. The pivot coupling assembly extends through the support bracket and the articulated arm, wherein the articulated arm is rotatable about the first axis of rotation relative to the support bracket. The articulated arm may include a first member receiving the pivot coupling assembly therethrough, a second member coupled to the ram block, and a second pivot coupling assembly having a second axis of rotation spaced apart from the first axis of rotation and extending through the first and second members. The second member is rotatable about the second axis of rotation relative to the first member. |
| US08720475B2 |
Air valve connector for connecting different valves
An air valve connector is threadly engaged to a nozzle head of an air pump, which is eccentrically and pivotally connected with a cam lever. The cam lever is adapted to press against a plug and an airtight ring disposed in the nozzle head to compel the valve connector to connect with different types of air valves such as a French type valve, a German type valve, an English type valve, and an American type valve. The air valve connector is reversed easily between first and second positions to be adapted to connect with the different type valves by the user. |
| US08720474B2 |
Attachment for different air valves
An air valve connecting device or attachment includes a housing having an inlet mouth, a gasket engaged into the housing for engaging with an inflation valve, a casing engaged in the housing for compressing the gasket to grasp the inflation valve to the housing, and the casing includes a compartment communicative with the gasket for engaging with a valve piece which selectively blocks the casing, a spring biases the valve piece to engage with the casing, an actuator is engageble with the casing for compressing the gasket to grasp the inflation valve to the housing, and the actuator includes a valve member for preventing an air leaking problem from being occurred by the inflation valves. |
| US08720472B2 |
Fuel cutoff valve
A fuel cutoff valve comprises a casing main body with a connecting hole and a valve chamber, a cover forming the tube member, and the float housed in the valve chamber. The valve comprises, above the casing main body, the liquid closure member forming the retaining chamber for temporarily retaining liquid fuel flown out of the connecting hole and the partition member formed in plurality in a ridge form on the upper surface of the upper wall within the retaining chamber. Each partition member is arranged radially so as to be connected to the liquid closure member from the near center of the connecting hole, and configured in such a way that the retaining chamber is divided into multiple divided chambers. |
| US08720471B2 |
Fuel cutoff valves
A fuel cutoff valve has a housing defining therein a float chamber and a float disposed in the float chamber. The housing defines a connection passage positioned above the float chamber and fluidly connecting the float chamber with outside of the housing and a hole positioned below the fluid chamber fluidly connecting the float chamber with outside of the housing. The float has a valve part that is configured to close the connection passage and defines therein a first passage passing through the float in a vertical direction and a second passage extending from a part of the first passage to an outer surface of the float in a substantial horizontal direction. |
| US08720466B2 |
Process for accessing underground pressurized gas main
A process is provided for accessing an underground pressurized gas main for retirement of replacement of the connection of a gas service pipe thereto. A gas main fixture that has a service tee adaptor and a pressurized chamber connected thereto is mounted onto the gas main with the tee adaptor above a tee plug on the gas service pipe. The chamber is closed against gas discharge and the tee plug is unscrewed from the gas service pipe while the pressure chamber is closed. The tee plug is removed through the service tee adapter and pressure chamber while minimizing gas discharged to atmosphere. The plug hole is preferably reamed through the pressure chamber while the chamber is closed to atmosphere, tapped for a straight fine thread, and a main plug with the fine thread is screwed into the tapped hole while limiting its depth of engagement. |
| US08720464B2 |
Method for controlling water supply amount and refrigerator using the same
A method for controlling a water supply amount and a refrigerator using the same are disclosed. The method includes receiving information regarding a water supply amount selected by a user, counting a duration after starting water supply, and checking whether an error in a water supply amount measurement unit exists. When the water supply amount measurement unit is normal, an actual water supply amount is determined based on a signal from the water supply amount measurement unit, and, when a fault exists, a water supply amount is determined based on correlation between a stored water supply amount for normal operation and a water supply duration. Water supply is stopped when the selected water supply amount and the determined water supply amount are equal. When the water supply amount measurement unit is normal, the signal from the water supply amount measurement unit and information regarding a water supply duration are stored. |
| US08720448B2 |
Sterile interface apparatus
A robotic surgical system configured to perform minimally invasive surgical procedures. In one variation, this robotic surgical system includes an instrument driver configured to steer an elongate instrument of an instrument assembly in one or more degrees of motion. A drape is disposed between the instrument driver and the instrument assembly. A drive interface apparatus is operatively coupled to the drape. The drape and drive interface apparatus may form a fluid barrier between the instrument driver and the instrument assembly. Drive interface apparatus may be disposed on a top surface of the instrument driver and on a bottom surface of the instrument assembly. The drive interface apparatus may transmit torque from the instrument driver to the instrument assembly. The input torque drives a pulley in the instrument assembly that operates one or more control wires to steer an elongate instrument of the instrument assembly for performing minimally invasive surgical procedures. |
| US08720447B2 |
Suspended back pillow for sustaining a side sleeping position
A device and method for enabling an individual located on a bed to sustain a side-sleeping orientation on either a left or right side. The device comprises a light weight, elongate pillow having a longitudinal axis and being configured to concurrently rest at a back side of the individual and an adjacent surface of a bed when reclined in a side-sleeping orientation on the bed. The pillow includes a flexible attachment structure which is positioned along a longitudinal edge of the pillow to secure the pillow to the individual's bed clothing. The attachment structure provides sufficient flexibility to allow the pillow to rotate with respect to and rest against the individual's back to a laterally offset and suspended, partial captured configuration in general alignment with the individual's spine and in concurrent contact with the bed surface to prevent a supine sleeping position. |
| US08720446B2 |
Sacrocolpopexy support and method of implantation
A method of treating prolapse of a vagina includes securing a base of a support to tissue by inserting an anchor into the tissue, the anchor coupled to the support via an interconnecting member, securing a leg of the support that extends from the base of the support to a cuff of the vagina, and adjusting elevation of the cuff of the vagina relative to a patient's sacrum by sliding the interconnecting member relative to the anchor. |
| US08720444B2 |
Breathing assistance apparatus having floating function
A breathing assistance apparatus includes a main body unit, a head strap unit, a nasal prong unit, and an intake unit. The main body unit has a rearwall, a frontwall, a connecting wall connected between the rearwall and the frontwall to define a chamber thereamong. The connecting wall has a rearwall-connecting portion connected to the rearwall, and a frontwall-connecting portion connected between the frontwall and the rearwall-connecting portion and having a thickness smaller than that of the rearwall-connecting portion so as to allow for floating movement of the frontwall relative to the rearwall. |
| US08720441B2 |
Determining patient-ventilator breath contribution index in spontaneously breathing, mechanically ventilated patients
The present invention relates to a system and method for determining a patient-ventilator breath contribution index in a spontaneously breathing, mechanically ventilated patient. A patient's efficiency to generate an inspiratory volume without mechanical ventilatory assist and a patient's efficiency to generate an inspiratory volume with mechanical ventilatory assist are calculated and used to determine the patient-ventilator breath contribution index. |
| US08720440B2 |
System and method of administering a pharmaceutical gas to a patient
A method and system for delivering a pharmaceutical gas to a patient. The method and system provide a known desired quantity of the pharmaceutical gas to the patient independent of the respiratory pattern of the patient. The preferred pharmaceutical gases are CO and NO, both of which are provided as a concentration in a carrier gas. The gas control system determines the delivery of the pharmaceutical gas to the patient to result in the known desired quantity (e.g. in molecules, milligrams or other quantified units) of the pharmaceutical gas being delivered. Upon completion of that known desired quantity of pharmaceutical gas over a plurality of breaths, the system can either terminate any further delivery of the pharmaceutical gas or can activate an alarm to alert the user that the known quantity has been delivered. The system also has alarm functions to alert the user of possible malfunctions of the system. |
| US08720434B2 |
Medicine ejection device and controlling method thereof
The invention provides a medicine ejection device which provides stable ejection even when a reservoir with high sealability is used and can eject an appropriate amount of medicine. A medicine ejection portion 1 includes an ejection nozzle 1a for ejecting a medicine and an element 1b which generates energy for ejecting the medicine from the ejection nozzle 1a, and is connected to a medicine storing portion 2 for storing the medicine. The medicine storing portion 2 is blocked from the outside air except a path through the ejection nozzle 1a, so that when the medicine is ejected from the ejection nozzle 1a, a pressure difference is formed between the outside and the inside of the medicine storing portion 2. A pressure unit 3 which is a feature of the present invention pressurizes a movable wall 5 when ejecting a medicine, which is displaced so that the volumetric capacity of the medicine storing portion 2 decreases due to the pressure difference. |
| US08720433B2 |
Dose counter with lockout mechanism
A medicament dispenser, in particular a metered dose inhaler, which is able to count the number of time the dispenser is activated and then disable the device, which then prevents any additional medicament from being dispensed. Additional embodiments include a medicament dispenser which are adapted to display either the number of activations that have occurred or the number of activations remaining. |
| US08720431B2 |
Mounting frame for supporting sheet-type solar panels
The invention relates to a mounting frame for supporting sheet-type solar panels (12) comprising, fitted substantially vertically for anchoring by its lower end (13a) in the ground or by a fixed anchoring location (13b), a supporting mast (13) at which the solar panels (12) resting on a plane panel support (8-11) are supported by means of a supporting structure (14) and which are rotatable about the axis of the mast for azimuthal tracking. |
| US08720428B2 |
Arrow mounted blind or decoy
An arrow mounted blind or decoy offers portability, flexibility, and minimum weight while always being mounted to a bow. The arrow mounted blind or decoy can be quickly deployed and easily folded against the arrow to which it is affixed and stowed out of the way. A mount is attached to an arrow with clamp screws. Spars are attached to the mount with an internal shock cord that runs through the mount. Fabric having camouflage properties and various colors is attached to the spars. In a deployed position, a view hole in the fabric allows an arrow to be drawn in the bow and through the view hole, allowing the hunter to see through to observe game while concealing the hunter from the game. The internal shock cord will stretch allowing the spars to be removed from the mount and folded over and attached to the arrow with a clamp. |
| US08720425B2 |
Two-track system for dual cam compound bow
The present invention comprises a two-track cam assembly wherein the cam assembly has a bowstring component for housing the bowstring and a power cable component that allows for the take up and let out of the power cable on opposing ends of the power cable component, effectively creating a two-track cam assembly. The efficiency rating of the device achieves 95.8%. The cam assembly can come in a unitary or modular form and further each component (i.e. the bowstring or power cable component) can be in a circular or non-circular form. |
| US08720421B2 |
Turbo-charging apparatus for vehicle engine
The disclosure provides a turbo-charging apparatus for a vehicle engine, which includes a first and second turbocharger, an inter-turbine passage connecting a discharging port of a first turbocharger turbine with an introducing port of a second turbocharger turbine, a bypass passage connecting an introducing passage of the first turbocharger turbine with the inter-turbine passage, and a control valve for opening and closing the bypass passage. The inter-turbine passage extends substantially straight from the discharging port of the first turbocharger turbine toward the second turbocharger when viewed from a direction parallel to turbine shafts of the first and second turbochargers, which are arranged substantially parallel to each other, so that the inter-turbine passage connects with an outer circumferential part of the second turbocharger turbine so as to extend in a direction tangent to an outer circumference direction of the second turbocharger turbine. |
| US08720419B2 |
Internal combustion engine efficiency
The technique disclosed increases the energy conversion efficiency by means of substantial reduction of friction between the cylinder walls and the associated piston rings. The result is achieved by eliminating the unwanted carbonaceous deposits on cylinder walls and associated piston rings by means of vapor nitric acid (HNO3) delivered to the combustion chambers of an engine. Nitric acid is produced by means of chemical reaction between oxygen (O2) and water vapor (H2O) in air and nitric dioxide (NO2) generated throughout an electrical discharge in the air intake path. |
| US08720416B2 |
Methods and apparatus to detect and inhibit low-speed pre-ignition in an engine
The disclosure provides a method of detecting and inhibiting an abnormal combustion event in an internal combustion engine, comprising operating the internal combustion engine to produce exhaust gas from the cylinder at a break mean effective pressure greater than or equal to 10 bars at a speed less than or equal to 2,000 revolutions per minute; monitoring the exhaust gas from the cylinder with an oxygen sensor while the internal combustion engine undergoes a pre-ignition combustion event; obtaining an output from the oxygen sensor, the output from the oxygen sensor providing an indicator of the pre-ignition combustion event; and adjusting at least one operating parameter of the internal combustion engine in response to the output of the oxygen sensor, wherein the at least one operating parameter is adjusted to inhibit an occurrence of a subsequent pre-ignition combustion event. |
| US08720412B2 |
Control apparatus for direct injection type internal combustion engine
A control apparatus for a direct injection type engine is provided for reducing an amount of fuel that adheres to and that remains on a crown surface of a piston so as to suppress the increase of Number of particles as well as advancing the first injection as much as possible when plural fuel injections are carried out in one cycle in the direct injection type engine. The first injection timing is set based on a pulse width of at least the first injection among each of injections split plural times, and when the pulse width of the split first injection is short, the injection timing of the first injection is more advanced as compared with a case of a longer pulse width of the split first injection. |
| US08720409B2 |
Oil squirter with damping vent
An oil squirter for an engine includes a piston-type valve having a damping vent configured to damp oscillations of the valve piston during opening and closing. The valve piston may be spring biased and the valve may opened by oil pressure exerted on the piston at or above a cracking pressure. The damping vent controls displacement of the valve piston by creating delta pressure in oil contained in a piston chamber in opposition to axial piston movement during opening and closing of the valve, to stabilize the axial movement of the piston thereby damping valve oscillation during valve opening and closing. The damping vent operates to increase cracking stability and eliminate cyclic contact of the valve piston and valve seat to prevent noise, wear, binding, and oil system pressure fluctuations due to squirter valve instability. |
| US08720408B1 |
Oil filtering and cooling system for a vehicle compression ignition engine
An oil distribution system for a vehicle diesel engine having a replacement oil cooler block which directs oil to a remote oil filter block. Filtered oil is routed across the supply passage of a thermostat to an oil-to-air oil cooler. Oil from the cooler is directed via a return passage to the oil cooler block for distribution to the engine. The thermostat will bypass oil directly to the return passage when the oil temperature is below a preset level. The system may be an OEM system or a retrofit modification to existing engines. The system may include multiple oil-to-air heat exchangers and may be adapted to retain existing components such as a stock oil-to-coolant oil cooler. |
| US08720407B2 |
Internal combustion engine
In an engine crankcase including a crankshaft supported at its front end by a crankshaft bearing having a crankshaft bearing cover including a bearing top part and a bearing bottom part and a front end gear drive arranged in front of the crankcase for driving auxiliary component and including a first drive gear mounted onto the crankshaft, a second gear mounted to the auxiliary component and an intermediate gear in meshing engagement with the first and second gears and supported on a support plate, the support plate is screwed onto the crankcase, the bearing top part and the bearing bottom part. |
| US08720405B2 |
Piston with improved side loading resistance
A piston including a crown and a skirt extending generally axially away from the crown. The skirt includes a pair of opposed skirt panel portions and a band spaced away from the crown and extending generally around a perimeter of the piston. The piston further includes a pair of strut assemblies, each strut assembly including a pair of struts which converge in a radially outward direction. Each strut terminates at or adjacent to one of the panel portions. |
| US08720403B2 |
Having a crankshaft and two balancer shafts
A balancer shaft of an engine includes a pair of journal portions, a first stage balance weight and a second stage balance weight. The first stage balance weight is formed between the journal portions and eccentrically arranged with respect to an axis. The second stage balance weight is formed on a center part of the first stage balance weight in the axial direction and projects outward from the first stage balance weight in a radial direction. The balancer shaft has a recess portion on the opposite side of the eccentricity direction. |
| US08720396B2 |
Split-cycle engine
A compression-ignition “split-cycle” engine (100) having: a cylinder block with an expansion cylinder having an expansion piston that moves alternatively between a top dead center (ETDC) and a bottom dead center (EBDC) by a crankshaft mechanism that causes a predetermined position of the expansion piston to correspond to a predetermined crankshaft angle; a compression cylinder having a compression piston adapted to move alternatively between a CTDC and a CBDC according to a predetermined angular phase shift in delay to the expansion piston; a cylinder head that closes the cylinders and comprises a crossover passageway with an opening in constant communication towards compression cylinder and an opening having a transfer valve towards expansion cylinder, an intake valve and an exhaust valve; means for opening/closing the transfer valve; means for opening/closing exhaust valve at predetermined moments of the alternative cycle of the pistons, and a fuel injector in the crossover passageway. |
| US08720393B2 |
Engine structure having conjugate cam assembly
An engine structure having a conjugate cam assembly is provided and includes a piston which can be used to push or pulled by the conjugate cam assembly mounted on a camshaft through a connection rod, a roller rocker and two rollers. The conjugate cam assembly has two cams with cam profiles and relative arrangement angle which can be varied according to actual operational desire, so as to vary the ratio of intake/exhaust strokes and the ratio of compression/power strokes. Thus, the combustion efficiency and the exhaustion efficiency can be enhanced. When the camshaft finishes four strokes of an operational cycle, the camshaft only rotates one circle (i.e. 360 degree), so that the rotation speed of the camshaft can be lowered. |
| US08720386B2 |
Pet protective collar with stays
A flexible pet protective collar having stays formed of a more rigid material than flexible sheets of the collar, the stays being disposed inside channels located at seams of the collar. |
| US08720381B2 |
Pet grooming tool
A pet grooming tool includes a plurality of tine members and dematting members juxtaposed with one another along a shaft axis of a mounting shaft to be secured to a handle assembly. Each tine member has front and rear edge surface extending to join with each other to form a tine tip. Each dematting member has a dematting blade region extending to terminate at an inclined distal edge surface, and having a blade cutout portion which extends from the inclined distal edge surface to form a dematting blade tip that is disposed rearward from the tine tip for preventing injury to a user or a pet. The pet grooming tool will rake or comb a pet by means of the tine members while cutting tangles and mats of the undercoat of the pet by means of the dematting members. |
| US08720379B2 |
Shipping containers for livestock
Shipping containers and systems for transporting livestock on shipping vessels over extended periods including features for water distribution, feed distribution, temperature control, air movement, and waste management and partitions for separating livestock from feed throughout shipment. |
| US08720377B1 |
Container and method for acclimating animals or plants
An aquarium transfer container has an inner container with holes therein. A double siphon is created from the aquarium to the transfer container and then from the transfer container to drain. When all the foreign water in the transfer container has been replaced with aquarium water, the inner container is lifted out and set inside the aquarium to release the transferred fish/plant. |
| US08720376B2 |
Coral cultivation method, manufacturing method for coral-growth substrate precipitated with electrodeposited minerals, and coral-growth substrate
A coral cultivation method includes: an electrodeposited-mineral precipitating procedure for precipitating electrodeposited minerals on a coral-growth substrate for growing coral, which is placed in seawater, by applying an electric current between the coral-growth substrate and a first anode that is electrically connected to the coral-growth substrate and placed in the seawater; a coral-larvae growing procedure for growing coral larvae on the coral-growth substrate precipitated with the electrodeposited minerals; a coral-cultivation-structure configuring procedure for configuring a coral cultivation structure from a plurality of the coral-growth substrates on which the coral larvae are grown; and a coral cultivating procedure for cultivating coral by applying an electric current between the coral-growth substrate on which the coral larvae are grown and a second anode. |
| US08720371B2 |
Method for milking an animal, and milking arrangement
A method of and arrangement for automatically milking an animal by use of an automatic milking system including a plurality of teat cups, a robot arm for automatic attachment of the teat cups and a control system arranged to control the milking system, wherein the teat cups are used, until a defect is established with respect to a teat cup. In that case, milking of the non-milked teat is automatically taken over by a different teat cup. |
| US08720365B2 |
Method for fabricating displays, and apparatus and process for producing displays
A method for fabricating a display is provided. The method includes providing a substrate having a pixel area, forming a plurality of patterned first electrodes on the pixel area, forming a plurality of partitions on both sides of the patterned first electrodes, respectively filling in spaces between the partitions with various colored material to cover the patterned first electrodes by a depositing process, and forming a cover on the partitions and the colored materials. |
| US08720363B2 |
Water activated buoyancy device
A water activated device having a lower casing with a cavity into which a spring is received, followed by a plunger and a bobbin. The lower casing attaches to an upper casing which houses a floatation member and includes a central aperture sized to allow the plunger to pass. The bobbin is sandwiched between the floatation member and the plunger. The floatation member defines a line holding dispensing spool such that one end of a line is attached to the spool and the opposite end of the line is attached to the device. The bobbin is the water sensitive trigger: when the water comes in contact with the bobbin, the bobbin starts to disintegrate losing its structural integrity, allowing force to enable the spring, forcing the plunger against the floatation member which discharges the floatation member from the upper casing. Once the floatation member is discharged, the floatation member floats to the water surface. |
| US08720358B2 |
Rudder stock
In order to achieve improved properties in a rudder stock for rudders for water vehicles, at least the lower end area of the rudder stock to be inserted into the rudder and to be mounted in the rudder has a non-metallic material. |
| US08720357B2 |
Passenger-rotatable boat
A boat configured for rotating in response to passenger inputs such as rotation of a wheel or pumping a hand pump. The boat includes a hull with an upper portion for receiving at least one passenger and a lower portion comprising a bottom contact surface. Further, the boat includes a rider interface, provided on the upper portion of the hull, that is configured for receiving physical input from the passenger. The boat also includes a torque producing assembly with a boat-to-water interface provided on the lower portion below a waterline region and above bottom contact surface. The boat-to-water interface applies a force to water adjacent to the lower portion of the hull in response to the received physical input, whereby the boat rotates due to a resistive force applied by the water in response to the applied force. |
| US08720344B2 |
Thermal management system and method
A system includes an interior duct, a blower, a vent coupling, and a secondary duct. The interior duct is fluidly coupled with the inlet and with an energy storage device disposed in a vehicle. The blower draws cooling fluid received through the inlet and through the interior duct to cause a first portion of the cooling fluid to flow over and/or through the energy storage device. The vent coupling directs the first portion of the cooling fluid that flowed over and/or through the energy storage device into a vented area. The secondary duct directs a second portion of the cooling fluid from the interior duct into the vent coupling to mix with the first portion of the cooling fluid after the first portion of the cooling fluid flows over and/or through the energy storage device. |
| US08720342B1 |
Low collateral damage fragmentation warhead
A fragmentation warhead includes a cylindrical body, and an explosive charge disposed within the innermost part of the warhead body comprised of slidable positionable explosives, their times of detonation controllable by an operator. The apparatus can produce numbers and sizes of fragments ranging from relatively large to relatively small. |
| US08720338B2 |
Process for controlling the quantity of ink applied to a material being printed and corresponding device
A process for controlling the quantity of ink applied to a material being printed includes the stages of: driving an inking roller and a printing roller at first inking and printing speeds, changing the printing speed to a second printing speed, changing the inking speed to a second inking speed on the basis of a speed correction index, measuring a first and a second quantity of ink, calculating the difference in the quantities of ink applied, and altering the speed correction parameter on the basis of the difference in the quantity of ink printed. The process may be applied to offset presses. |
| US08720336B2 |
Plate for magnet cylinder
A plate for a magnet cylinder includes a main body, a nonmagnetic portion, and a magnetic piece. The main body is formed of a flexible thin plate-like magnetic material to be magnetically mounted on the outer surface of a magnet cylinder. The nonmagnetic portion is projected from one end of the main body. The magnetic piece magnetically sandwiches the nonmagnetic portion against the outer surface of the magnet cylinder. |
| US08720331B2 |
Screen printing apparatus and method for printing of circuit board including a mask having two different patterns for printing different parts of the circuit board in separate printing steps
A screen printing device and screen printing method in which, in screen printing which is to be applied to a cavity circuit board configured by bonding board members together, printing misalignment hardly occurs. A mask member has a cavity-portion corresponding mask region MRC where a mask pattern MPC corresponding to cavity-portion electrode patterns is formed on the bottom faces of fitting portions to be fitted into cavity portions CV; and a flat-portion corresponding mask region MRF where a mask pattern MPF corresponding to flat-portion electrode patterns is formed as separate regions. Positioning between the cavity-portion corresponding mask region MRC and the cavity-portion electrode patterns is performed, and screen printing is applied. Positioning between the flat-portion corresponding mask region MRF and the flat-portion electrode patterns is performed, and screen printing is applied. |
| US08720328B2 |
Control device of servo press and method for controlling servo press
A control system of a servo press and a control method are provided for preventing an overload on a pressure capability of a press and a torque capability of a drive system. A control device of a servo press for pressing by transferring a drive force of a servomotor to a slide via a drive mechanism includes: a motion calculation unit for calculating slide target position data; a torque calculation unit for calculating process torque for pressing and control torque for speed change of the servo motor on the basis of slide target position data; a process system limit unit for limiting the calculated process torque to predetermined process limitation torque; and a drive system limit unit for limiting combined torque of the limited process torque and the control torque to predetermined drive limitation torque. The servo motor is driven on the basis of a command of drive limitation torque. |
| US08720322B2 |
Barbeque smoker with heated reverse flow exhaust
A barbeque smoker has an angled front with a heated exhaust that increases draft and air circulation, resulting in a more even heat and smoke distribution than conventional smokers. By heating an internal chimney directly over the smoker's fire, the temperature in the exhaust is higher than it is inside the cooking chamber, thus increasing draft/air circulation. The chimney intake is positioned below the cooking grates and runs on an upward angle through the cooking chamber. The chimney terminates outside the top of the smoker. This configuration forces the chamber to uniformly fill with heat and smoke before any heat or smoke can exit the cooking chamber. The increased draft aids efficient circulation of the heat and smoke, creating a very uniform cooking environment. |
| US08720318B2 |
Actuator
An actuator is equipped with a cylinder body in the interior of which a piston is disposed for displacement therein. A piston rod connected to the piston projects outwardly to the exterior from an end of the cylinder body. A guide unit, having a guide body that is attached to the cylinder body, and a pair of guide rods, which are disposed displaceably with respect to the guide body, are disposed detachably on the cylinder body. Additionally, by mutually interconnecting the guide rods of the guide unit and the piston rod through a connecting plate, when the piston rod is displaced in an axial direction, the piston rod is guided by the pair of guide rods. |
| US08720316B2 |
High-pressure fuel pump
A high-pressure fuel pump includes a housing and a swash plate which is mounted in the housing and is arranged in an oil space of the housing. A drive shaft is connected to the swash plate and passes through a housing opening, and with a seal for the drive shaft, which seal is mounted in the housing in the region of the housing opening. The high-pressure fuel pump has a plurality of pump elements for sucking up, compressing and ejecting fuel, which pump elements can be acted upon consecutively by the rotatable swash plate. In a pump of this type, the fuel pump has at least one magnet, the magnetic force field of which acts on the oil space of the housing. Premature wear of the pump, in particular premature wear of the seal, is avoided since the magnet separates off iron-containing dirt particles found in the oil. |
| US08720313B2 |
Window covering cutting machine
A window covering cutting machine is disclosed that has a support table, a cutting mechanism adjacent the support table and a plurality of moveable stops moveably connected to at least one of the cutting mechanism and the support table. The support table has a surface on which at least a portion of a window covering work piece can be placed. The cutting mechanism has a housing with a plurality of openings sized to receive at least a portion of a window covering work piece. The cutting mechanism also has at least one cutting device configured to cut portions of a window covering that extend through any of the openings. One stop is aligned with each opening and is independently moveable relative to the housing and the other stops. |
| US08720312B2 |
Hands-free quick-change air tool configuration
A hands-free quick-change air tool configuration for a machining apparatus includes a tool holder configured to receive a normally hand-held air operated tool. The air manifold is operably receptive of the tool holder. A plunger-type seal configuration is operably interconnected to an air supply and is in operable communication with the air manifold. A method for deburring a part in a machining apparatus is included. |
| US08720309B2 |
Ratchet wrench having easily assembling structure
A ratchet wrench having easily assembling structure includes a body, a D-head, a loose ratchet, a heart-shaped spring, a disc and a ring. The body has a head portion. The head portion has a through hole. A plurality of teeth is uniformly defined on the through hole. The D-head is rotatably disposed in the through hole and has a connecting member and a threaded member. The loose ratchet is disposed on the D-head. The heart-shaped spring has a closed tip. The disc is disposed on the head portion. A shouldered hole is opened on the disc. A ring is disposed onto the shouldered hole. The ring is disposed onto the shouldered hole. Under this arrangement, a user engages a tool bit with the connecting member of the present invention to lock a bolt by repeatedly rotating the body of the present invention clockwise/counterclockwise. |
| US08720307B2 |
Ratchet screwdriver
A ratchet screwdriver includes an adjusting assembly. The adjusting assembly is selectively changable between a first position, a second position, and a third position. When the adjusting assembly is in the first position, a rib is located between the first and second ends of a slanting slot. First and second pawls are engaged with a ratchet portion. A position assembly is engaged in a first bore. A shank is able to drive the screwdriver bit in a clockwise direction or a counterclockwise direction. When the adjusting assembly is in the second position, the shank is able to drive the screwdriver bit in the clockwise direction. When the adjusting assembly is in the third position, the shank is able to drive the screwdriver bit in the counterclockwise direction. |
| US08720304B1 |
Bicycle crank assembly
A bicycle crank assembly of bicycle cranks and axle includes a first crank having a first hole which has a first open end and a second open end opposite the first open end. A first protrusion extends from the inner periphery of the first open end and a second protrusion extends from the first protrusion. The second protrusion has a first restriction face. An axle extends through the first crank and has a third end and a fourth end opposite the third end. The third end has a fixing portion on the outside thereof. The fixing portion has a recessed portion defined in the connection area with the axle. The recessed portion has a second restriction face which is matched with the first restriction face so as to evenly share the stress. |
| US08720303B2 |
Pivoting structure for a brake lever
A pivoting structure for a brake lever includes a connector having one end connected to a handle of a bicycle and another end having a assembling space opened thereon; a brake lever having one end which is assembled to the assembling space; and a pivoting set having a horizontal shaft and a vertical shaft, one end of the horizontal shaft inserted through a wall of the assembling space, the vertical shaft passing through one end of the brake lever, another end of the horizontal shaft connected to the vertical shaft. Therefore, the brake lever is vertically and horizontally pivotable on the connector via the pivoting set. |
| US08720302B2 |
Anchoring means for the sheath of a bowden cable
An anchoring device for anchoring an elongate member to a fixed member having a slot leading to an edge thereof, wherein the elongate member passes through the slot; the anchoring device comprising a sleeve which is fixable coaxially around said elongate member and which is provided with a peripheral groove that has an axial length sufficient to accommodate the thickness of the fixed member at said slot and has an outer dimension being less than the inner dimension of the slot; the anchoring device further comprising a collar member which is carried by, and axially moveable along, said sleeve, said collar member having a leading edge which extends into said groove and engages the edge of the slot when the anchoring device is located within said slot, the collar member being arranged such that the leading edge of the collar is withdrawn from the groove by moving the collar member along the sleeve in an axial direction away from the slot. |
| US08720293B2 |
Shift lever device
A shift lever device for operating a vehicle mounted transmission by pivoting operation of a shift lever about a predetermined axis is disclosed, and in this shift lever device, a housing is configured by a first housing member that is disposed on one side of the shift lever in a predetermined direction and a second housing member that assemblable to the first housing member along the predetermined direction from the side of the shift lever opposite to the side facing the first housing member with the shift lever therebetween, and the shift lever is axially supported inside the housing such that the shift lever is pivotable about an axis whose axial direction is the predetermined direction. |
| US08720289B2 |
Loading machine for feeding a receiver
A loading machine for feeding a receiver includes, but is not limited to, a drum cam that is configured to rotate. The drum cam includes, but is not limited to, a first cam path, and a second cam path. A rammer subassembly is positioned proximate the drum cam. The rammer subassembly includes, but is not limited to, a first member that is configured to engage the first cam path and to move longitudinally with respect to the drum cam upon a rotation of the drum cam, and a second member that is configured to telescopically engage the first member and further configured to engage the second cam path and telescopically move with respect to the first member upon the rotation of the drum cam. |
| US08720287B2 |
Gas trap
The gas trap collects formation gases from oil well fluid flow in real time. Gases are released by the fluid when agitated by an agitating pipe which stirs the fluid flow; the gases are then collected and separated from the fluid to be analyzed. The gas trap does hinder the flow of formation cuttings in the drilling fluid flow line, but allows the formation cuttings to flow around the agitator pipe and out to the sample box. |
| US08720283B2 |
Variable torque-rate test joint
The invention provides a variable torque-rate test joint for the performance testing of rotary tools for threaded fasteners. In a typical test routine a nut is repeatedly tightened by the tool and after each tightening the nut must be released and run back to its start position. The invention provides a means for rapidly releasing the pressure on the tightened nut so that it can be run back quickly and easily. The variable joint is supported by a reaction surface that is the operative face of a piston and cylinder assembly seated on a shoulder fast to a shank of the threaded fastener. A hydraulic control is provided for the piston and cylinder assembly including means for hydraulically extending the piston from the cylinder to a fixed maximum extension which defines a test position of the reaction surface, and means for hydraulically retracting the piston back into the cylinder to remove the pressure from the nut at the end of the test. During tightening the piston is extended and preferably hydraulically locked. |
| US08720278B1 |
Method of detecting inconsistencies in composite structures and stress sensitive coatings used therein
A coating system includes at least one polymeric coating layer comprising at least one fluorescent dye, wherein an optical behavior of the fluorescent dye changes as a function of a stress of the at least one polymeric coating. |
| US08720277B2 |
Process fluid pressure measurement system with improved coupling
A process pressure measurement system includes a remote seal assembly configured to couple to a process. The system has a remote seal diaphragm with a first side adapted to contact a process fluid and a second side adapted to contact a fill fluid. A first capillary conduit has a first coupling and is coupled to the remote seal and is filled with the fill fluid. A second capillary conduit is coupled to a process fluid pressure transmitter. The second capillary conduit is filled with the fill fluid. A second coupling is coupled to the second capillary conduit and to the first coupling to provide fluidic communication from the remote seal diaphragm to the pressure inlet of the process fluid pressure transmitter. At least one of the first and second couplings is sized to pass through a penetration in a process containment barrier. |
| US08720276B2 |
Moment fraction computation for sensors
An implantable medical sensor system provides signals representative of a magnitude of moment fraction applied to a sensor module at a selected site. A sensor module includes a first transducer producing a first signal having an associated first response to pressure and strain applied to the sensor module and a second transducer producing a second signal having an associated second response to pressure and strain applied to the sensor module. A moment fraction is computed in response to the first signal and the second signal. In various embodiments, the moment fraction is used to guide positioning of the sensor module, indicate a need for repositioning the sensor module, report loading of the sensor module during normal operation for use as sensor design information and in setting sensor calibration ranges. |
| US08720274B2 |
Device and method for studying a study area by means of an acoustic wave
A device includes a substrate 5, an emission source 1 emitting an acoustic beam from the first surface 7 of the substrate 5 towards the second surface 6 of the substrate 5, first reflection element 11 arranged so that, after reflection, the beam has a propagation direction substantially parallel to the second surface 6 and through a study area 3, and second reflection element 12 for reflecting the beam after crossing the study area 3 in the direction of the first surface, towards a receiver 10. The device is useful in the field of bioMEMS and labs-on-a-chip, and in particular makes it possible to leave one of the surfaces of the substrate free, for example for observation of the study area in parallel by element of an optical microscope. Moreover, the device facilitates the production of elements for the focussing or divergence (lenses) or reflection (mirror) of the acoustic beam. |
| US08720273B2 |
Scanning acoustic microscope with an inverted transducer and bubbler functionality
A scanning acoustic microscope includes a transducer mounted in a cup below a particular elevation and a coupling fluid source disposed below the particular elevation and which is adapted to introduce coupling fluid into the cup. A controller is operable to control the transducer and the coupling fluid source during testing such that ultrasonic energy can be directed upwardly through coupling fluid disposed between and contacting the transducer and a first surface of a part to be inspected. The part is disposed at the particular elevation and a second surface of the part is not contacted by coupling fluid during testing. |
| US08720271B2 |
Electromagnetic disc drive wheel balancer
A device to balance a disc, comprising a shaft disposed for rotation about an axis having one end adapted to coaxially receive the disc and an opposite end including rotor structure stator structure to magnetically drive the rotor structure, shaft and disc about the axis; and structure for determining imbalance in the disc. |
| US08720267B2 |
Partial stroke testing system coupled with fuel control valve
A system for on-line testing of an emergency shut-off valve includes a first emergency shut-off valve (first valve) and a flow control valve (second valve), with the system being configured to allow the second valve to serve as a combination flow control and second emergency shut-off valve. A subsystem is also provided for testing the first valve without fully closing the first valve in response to a signal from the control. In this subsystem, a solenoid valve bleeds off pressurized fluid to move the first valve from a fully opened to a partially closed position. A bypass around the second valve allows it to be tested as the second emergency shut-off valve, allowing the second valve to close completely without shutting down the process. The use of the two emergency shut-off valves in series wherein either valve can shut down the process provides a level 3 safety integrity level. |
| US08720266B2 |
Measuring device
A measuring device for measuring the torque of a torsion spring, includes a base, an electronic scale secured to the base, a supporting plate fixed to the base, and a holding mechanism slidably secured to the supporting plate. The holding mechanism includes a screw slidably secured to the supporting plate, two nuts engaging with the screw and arranged at opposite sides of the screw, and a holding portion for holding the torsion spring. The nuts are operated to adjust the height of the screw relative to the supporting plate, to drive the torsion spring to depress the electronic scale. The electronic scale displays a weight value for calculating the torque of the torsion spring when depressed by the torsion spring. |
| US08720265B2 |
Spring testing fixture and measuring assembly thereof
A spring testing fixture and measuring assembly thereof are described. The spring testing fixture includes a measuring assembly, an upper cover and a lower cover. The measuring assembly further includes a contact plate, a containing space and a buckling unit. The contact plate of the measuring assembly is correspondingly adapted to the configuration (or profile) of the spring for effectively restricting the exerted force on the spring to precisely measure the practical reliability and the life span of the spring. |
| US08720261B2 |
Jig for crash test of brake pedal
The jig may include a base plate having mounting surfaces, upper mounting holes formed in the mounting surfaces and disposed symmetrically, lower mounting holes formed through both of the mounting surfaces, respectively, and disposed under the upper mounting holes, an upper support bracket having one end connected to both of the upper mounting holes and another end fixed and connected to one mounting surface, a lower support bracket having one end connected to both of the lower mounting holes and another end fixed and connected to another mounting surface, a first sample fixing rod connected and supported across the upper support bracket at both sides, and a second sample fixing rod connected and supported across the lower support bracket at both sides. |
| US08720256B2 |
Off-axis imaging for indentation instruments
Modifications to the indenter probe tips and transducer, and proper selection of optics in an indentation system allow straight down or slightly angled optical viewing of the sample surface under the indentation tip by a microscope, by providing an optical path through the transducer from the sample surface under the tip to a microscope objective, thereby simplifying alignment of the tip to features on the sample. |
| US08720255B2 |
Water uptake measurement system
A water uptake measurement system for measuring uptake of a fluid by a sample includes a sample chamber, a suspension component and a supply interface. A suspension aperture is located at a first end of the sample chamber and extends from an outer surface of the sample chamber to an inner surface of the sample chamber. The suspension component passes through the suspension aperture and is configured to support the sample within the internal cavity such that the sample is spaced apart from the inner surface of the sample chamber. The supply interface is configured to deliver the fluid to the internal cavity of the sample chamber. |
| US08720254B2 |
Device for detecting micro-leaks
Micro-leaks are detected by means of a sniffer device including, in an original manner, a flat suction capsule (11) with divergent channels where the flow is regular, a resonant optical cavity (15) as a means of detection and a pump (16) with a low flow rate, which is insufficient to create a vacuum which would be required with other means of detection. Much fainter micro-leaks can be detected. |
| US08720252B2 |
Quality control apparatus for gas diffusion layer for fuel cells
A quality control apparatus for a gas diffusion layer includes a support, at least one first pressure device, a plate provided below the first pressure device and supporting the pressure applied to the gas diffusion layer sample, a first controller controlling the compression of the first pressure device, a thickness gauge measuring the thickness of the gas diffusion layer sample, a flow channel formed in the sample compressing portion to discharge a gas to the gas diffusion layer sample, a gas supply controller, a gas supply source, a pressure gauge, two fixing devices, a third controller controlling the compression of the fixing devices, two second pressure, a second controller controlling the compression of the second pressure device, a stopper, a protrusion, and a load cell. |
| US08720251B2 |
Gas sensing system
A gas detection system comprising a gas sensor having a detection surface for detecting an analyte gas, the accuracy of detection being degraded by the presence of an unwanted gas at the sensor, and a thermal scrubber layer directly adjacent said detection surface of the gas sensor defining a diffusion path for the analyte and unwanted gases to traverse through to the detection surface, the diffusion path having a sufficient length and the thermal scrubber being heated by the heater to a sufficient temperature capable of at least partially thermally decomposing the unwanted gas prior to contacting the detection surface to thereby improve the accuracy of the sensor. The system further comprises a heater that is preferably arranged to heat both the detection surface and the thermal scrubber. The invention is particularly useful for improving the performance of an NO2 gas sensor in the presence of ozone (O3). |
| US08720249B2 |
Non-invasive sensor calibration device
A calibration device according to embodiments of the disclosure is capable of being used with a non-invasive sensor. Certain embodiments of the calibration device simulate a human pulse by varying the volume of blood being measured by the optical sensor. Further, embodiments of the calibration device allow the generation of calibration curves or data for measured parameters over larger ranges of measured values compared to patient-based calibration. |
| US08720248B2 |
Hot stretch forming die having distortion-minimizing characteristics
A hot stretch wrap forming die typically includes a rigid backing section, a series of spaced ribs extending forward from the backing section, and an elongated face sheet secured to the ribs forward of the backing section with a convex forward-facing die face. The ribs elastically deflect during thermal expansion of the face sheet when a heated metal bar is forced against the die face so that the metal bar transfers heat to the face sheet. The die typically includes stiff ribs secured to the backing section and the face sheet which provide substantially fixed points for the face sheet during its thermal expansion. The face sheet may include several face sheet segments which together from the die face. The face sheet may also include contour plates which form respective portions of the die face and which may be used to adjust the specific contour of the die face. |
| US08720247B2 |
Method for bending process and processing machine
Multiple movable die portions (press punches) are respectively opposing to multiple fixed die portions (block members). Each of the press punches is sequentially pushed down with a predetermined time difference to the corresponding block member to continuously carry out press work to a material inserted into a press-work area between the press punches and the block members. A clearance is formed between a forward end of the press punch and a forward end of the block member at a position shortly before a press-work operating position in order to control a pulling force of the material, so that a shape distortion can be avoided. |
| US08720244B2 |
Method of supplying lubrication oil in cold rolling
The present invention provides a method for supplying lubricant to various kinds of steel sheets with different qualities in cold rolling without any restrictions, such as lubricant supplying apparatus or lubrication conditions. This method comprises storing two or more kinds of lubricant such as A and B, having different compositions, selecting one lubricant or a mixture lubricant of the above A and B in accordance with the friction coefficient between the steel sheet to be cold rolled and a work-rolls, and supplying an emulsion comprising a mixture of the lubricant A and/or B and heated water. |
| US08720243B2 |
Switching device, especially floor switch, for a production device
The invention describes a switching device which can be variably positioned (45), in particular a foot switch (47), which is connected, preferably wirelessly, to a control device (46) optionally co-operating with a production unit (1), in particular a press brake (2), for transmitting signals and/or data. A positioning system (50) is provided as a means of changing the position when necessary, which comprises at least a detection unit (51) and a drive system (52) in the form of a bogie provided with a drive mechanism and at least one drive member. |
| US08720240B2 |
Arrangement for transmitting movement between, in particular, a vehicle door catch and lock
A rotary output member that is a motor vehicle door catch and a rotary input member of a mechanism that is a motor vehicle door lock is disclosed. The arrangement includes a movement transmitting device that is inserted between the two rotary members, the transmission shaft of the two ends of which, together with the rotary output and input members, form articulated universal joints allowing some degree of axial misalignment. Each end of the shaft is ball shaped, collaborating with a complementary rotary member part. The ball at the door catch end of the transmission shaft is a faceted ball, the number of facets of which is defined according to the angle between the door catch and the door lock. |
| US08720239B2 |
Tool box locking mechanisms for remote activation
An improved method of rotating the lockrod of a tool storage unit to the “locked” or “unlocked” position by use of a linear actuator to rotate the lockrod actuator, where the linear actuator operates electrically, allowing for control by any remotely or automatically operated system. The tool storage unit locking mechanisms include a center-neutral key position that rotates 90 degrees in either direction from center to lock and unlock the unit. This design allows a standard key to operate the locking mechanism, but also allows a secondary mechanism (such as an electromagnetically driven mechanism) to directly operate the lock. Due to its specifics, the design would also allow for retrofitability. |
| US08720237B2 |
Rotary latch
A rotary latch mechanism is provided for securing the lid of a container in a closed position wherein a mechanical advantage is employed to facilitate latching and unlatching of a latch plate of the rotary latch mechanism. |
| US08720234B2 |
Laundry treating apparatus
The laundry treating apparatus includes a cabinet forming an external appearance of the laundry treating apparatus, the cabinet having a laundry entrance opening for introducing laundry therethrough, a door rotatably coupled to the cabinet for opening and closing the laundry entrance opening, a hook provided at the door, and a door switch provided at the cabinet such that the hook can be latched to the door switch to prevent the door from being opened. The door switch separates the hook for opening the door. |
| US08720232B2 |
Continuous glass filaments manufacturing equipment
An apparatus is provided for producing continuous glass filaments by spinning molten glass through nozzles of a bushing and cooling the thus-spun filaments with fins joined to one or more cooled manifolds and arranged in a proximity of the nozzles. Each manifold is provided at at least three locations thereof with at least one inlet port and at least one outlet port for coolant, respectively, with a proviso that the total number of the inlet and outlet ports is the same as the number of the locations of the manifold. Without using a complex construction, this invention makes it possible to provide the fins with improved durability and to produce the glass filaments with improved quality. In particular, the present invention can be applied to large bushings each of which is equipped with a number of nozzles. |
| US08720231B2 |
Method and apparatus for optical fiber coloring
An apparatus for coloring optical fibers, includes: a first reservoir for containing a natural coating material to be applied onto an optical fiber being drawn; a second reservoir for containing a colorant to be mixed with the natural coating material; a mixer in fluid communication with the first and second reservoirs to receive a first flow of natural coating material and a second flow of colorant and to mix the first and second flows to obtain a colored coating material; a coating die in fluid communication with the mixer to receive the flow of colored coating material and to apply it onto the optical fiber being drawn. A first gas pressure source is associated with the first reservoir, exerting on the natural coating material a first gas pressure variable as a function of at least one optical fiber drawing parameter, and a second gas pressure source is associated with the second reservoir, exerting on the colorant a second gas pressure variable as a function of at least one optical fiber drawing parameter. The first and second lines have relevant pressure drop in a ratio corresponding to the ratio of natural coating material and colorant providing the colored coating material. |
| US08720230B2 |
Method for fabricating an optical fiber preform
The present invention relates to a method and an apparatus for fabricating a preform (1,10,100) that can be used for drawing an active optical fiber (8). The present invention further relates to an active optical fiber (8), designed for amplification or attenuation purposes, drawn from said preform (1,10,100) and to an optical amplifier (600, 601) using a laser active optical fiber. |
| US08720229B2 |
Vacuum degassing apparatus, apparatus for producing glass products and process for producing glass products
A vacuum degassing apparatus having a throughput of at least 200 tons/day without causing problems such as a stagnation of molten glass flow in the molten glass flow path, an increment of flow rate of the molten glass flow in a local area, an excessive increment of pressure loss of the molten glass flow.A vacuum degassing apparatus comprises a vacuum degassing vessel, and an uprising pipe and a downfalling pipe which are connected with the vacuum degassing vessel, wherein the vacuum degassing vessel includes a wide portion for providing a molten glass flow path, and in the wide portion, the proportion W1/L1 of the breadth of molten glass flow path W1 to the length of molten glass flow path L1 is at least 0.2 and that in the vacuum degassing vessel, the breadth of molten glass flow path W2 of the portion connected with the uprising pipe and the breadth of molten glass flow path W3 of the portion connected with the downfalling pipe are narrower than the breadth of molten glass flow path W1 in the wide portion, and the position of the bottom of molten glass flow path of the portion connected with the uprising pipe and the position of the bottom of molten glass flow path of the portion connected with the downfalling pipe are lower than the position of the bottom of molten glass flow path of the wide portion. |
| US08720227B2 |
Conveyance assisting device of glass ribbon
In a glass-ribbon conveyance assisting device which is applied to a glass-ribbon conveyance device configured to convey a glass ribbon on a plurality of rotating glass-conveyance rolls, the glass-ribbon conveyance assisting device includes a rotary drive section, a plurality of rolls configured to be rotated by the rotary drive section, an annular belt configured to rotate while running with flexion under a state where the rolls have been inserted into the belt, and a wheel configured to press the glass ribbon which is conveyed on the belt. The glass ribbon is conveyed on the belt by a drive of the belt under a state where width-directional both end portions of the glass ribbon are sandwiched between the belt and the wheel. |
| US08720222B2 |
Higher efficiency appliance employing thermal load shifting in refrigerators having horizontal mullion
An appliance includes a cabinet; a first compartment; and a second compartment. The first compartment and the second compartment are separated by a horizontal mullion. The cabinet also typically includes a coolant system that has: a single compressor for regulating a temperature of the first compartment and a temperature of the second compartment operably connected to at least one evaporator; a shared coolant fluid connection system; and a coolant fluid spaced within the shared coolant fluid connection system used to regulate both the temperature of the first compartment and the second compartment. The compressor can provide the shared coolant at at least two different pressures to at least one evaporator using the shared coolant fluid connection circuit. The ratio of the substantially steady state heat gain for the first compartment to the substantially steady state total heat gain for the overall cabinet is about 0.65:1 or greater. |
| US08720220B2 |
Air convection warmer with noise reduction filter
To reduce the noise level of air convective warmer, the air filter of the warmer is fitted with an air intercept mechanism to disrupt the flow of air that traverses inside the interior cavity of the air filter. By thus disrupting the air flow, the noise that otherwise would have been generated due to a non-interrupted air stream flow is lowered. The air intercept mechanism may be in the form of at least one partition positioned inside the interior cavity of the air filter. Alternatively, double-ended open tubes may be used, so long as the interior cavity of the filter is sealed, with only the tubes providing the passages for air to output from the air filter. Yet a third embodiment of the air reduction filter has an air impermeable material covering at least one portion of the surface area of the filtering material to prevent the inflow air from directly entering into the interior cavity of the air filter through the covered surface area. |
| US08720219B1 |
All solid state optical cryocooler using intracavity optically pumped semiconductor lasers and a method of making the same
A device and corresponding method for cooling electronics is disclosed. The device is an all-solid-state optical cryocooler and can include an optically pumped semiconductor laser (OPSL); a cavity configured to receive and control absorption of the optically pumped semiconductor laser, the cavity having a high reflection (HR) surface and an anti-reflection (AR) surface; and a doped crystal housed within the cavity, the doped crystal configured to cool in response to input of the optically pumped semiconductor laser. The method can include supplying an intracavity optically pumped semiconductor lasers to a doped crystal within a cavity; and configuring the cavity to include a high reflection (HR) surface and an anti-reflection (AR) surface, the HR surface and AR surface formed on or in connection with the doped crystal to increase pump light absorption at the crystal within the cavity. |
| US08720218B2 |
Pressure activated recharging cooling platform
A cooling platform for cooling an object is provided. The cooling platform comprises a temperature regulation, a support layer, and a channeled covering layer. The temperature regulation layer is adapted to hold a composition. The temperature regulation layer has a plurality of angled segments, wherein angled segments within a sealed perimeter of the temperature regulation layer are formed by a top side and a bottom side at a predefined distance, and channels, wherein the channels substantially form sides by contacting the top side with the bottom side at a distance lesser than the predefined distance. The support layer is substantially bonded to the bottom side of the temperature regulation layer and is comprised of material sufficiently pliable to deform and sufficiently rigid to withstand collapse in response to the weight of the object. The channeled covering layer encompasses the support and temperature regulation layers. |
| US08720205B2 |
Advanced hypersonic magnetic jet/electric turbine engine (AHMJET)
With turbine segments controlled electrically in a shaftless design, the turbine of the present invention creates high propulsion efficiencies over a broader range of operating conditions through the integration of gas turbine, electric and magnetic power systems, advanced materials and alternative petroleum-based combustion cycles. |
| US08720204B2 |
Resonator system with enhanced combustor liner cooling
A combustor liner has a plurality of resonators formed thereon. Each resonator has a radially outer wall and at least one side wall. The outer wall can be free of holes. Each resonator has an inner cavity defined between the outer wall, the at least one side wall and the outer peripheral surface of the liner. The at least one side wall of each resonator surrounds a subset of a plurality of holes that extend substantially radially through the liner. A plurality of cooling passages extends generally longitudinally within the liner. Each cooling passage has an inlet in fluid communication with the exterior of the liner and an outlet in fluid communication with the inner cavity of a respective one of the resonators. A coolant, such as compressor air, can enter and flow along the cooling passages to thereby cool the liner and purge the inner cavity of the resonator. |
| US08720201B2 |
Method of monitoring an electronic engine control (EEC) to detect a loss of fuel screen open area
A method of sensing a reduction in fuel screen area in a fuel system. The method includes detecting an engine shutdown, initiating an electronic engine control (EEC) built in test, shifting a metering valve from a first position to a second position, determining a travel time of the metering valve, and sensing a reduction in fuel screen area based on the travel time of the metering valve. |
| US08720200B2 |
Multistage supercharging system control apparatus
In the case where a low-pressure-side supercharging pressure acquired value corresponding to the pressure of inlet gas at the outlet of a low-pressure compressor operated in a twin supercharging mode is less than a target supercharging pressure in a single supercharging mode, changeover from the twin supercharging mode to the single supercharging mode is prohibited. Meanwhile, in the case where the low-pressure-side supercharging pressure acquired value is equal to or greater than the target supercharging pressure, the changeover from the twin supercharging mode to the single supercharging mode is permitted. Alternatively, in the case where a supercharging pressure during operation in the single supercharging mode is less than a target value of the pressure of supply gas at the outlet of the low-pressure compressor in the twin supercharging mode, changeover from the single supercharging mode to the twin supercharging mode is prohibited. Meanwhile, in the case where the supercharging pressure is equal to or greater than the target value, the changeover from the single supercharging mode to the twin supercharging mode is permitted. |
| US08720197B2 |
Flow management system for hydraulic work machine
A flow management system capable of providing adjustable hydraulic fluid flow or pressure at a common line to supply bidirectional pumps in electro-hydrostatic actuation systems and conditioning re-circulated hydraulic fluid. The system enables flow sharing between multiple actuation systems and minimization of energy consumption by a power-on-demand approach and/or electrical energy regeneration while eliminating the need for an accumulator. The system has particular application to electro-hydrostatic actuation systems that typically include bi-directional electric motor driven pumps and unbalanced hydraulic actuators connected within closed circuits to provide work output against external loads and reversely recover energy from externally applied loads. |
| US08720196B2 |
Controller of hybrid construction machine
Disclosed is a controller of a hybrid, construction machine wherein electric power is generated by utilizing the standby flow rate of first and second main pumps, and the standby flow rate is converted into energy. Pilot channels are connected to the upstream side of on/off valves which are closed when first and second main pumps ensure a standby flow rate, and a controller unit judges that the first and second main pumps are discharging at the standby low rate based on pressure signals from first and second pressure sensors, and brings first and second solenoid valves to an open position. |
| US08720195B2 |
Exhaust assembly
An exhaust assembly includes an exhaust pipe, a first venturi member at the inlet end of the pipe and a second venturi member at the outlet end of the pipe. A diffuser/mixer is mounted at the outlet end of the exhaust pipe. A shield pipe surrounds a portion of the exhaust pipe. A shield member is mounted to the shield pipe and covers a portion of the first venturi member. The first and second venturi members operate to combine ambient air with exhaust gases. |
| US08720193B2 |
Hybrid catalyst radiant preheating system
A catalyst heating system includes a monitoring module, a mode selection module and an electrically heated catalyst (EHC) control module. The monitoring module monitors at least one of (i) a first active volume of a catalyst assembly in an exhaust system of an engine and (ii) a first temperature of a non-EHC of the catalyst assembly. The mode selection module is configured to select a non-EHC radiant heating mode and generate a mode signal based on the at least one of the first active catalyst volume and the first temperature. An EHC control module increases temperature of the EHC to an elevated temperature that is greater than a stabilization temperature based on the mode signal. The stabilization temperature is greater than a catalyst light off temperature. |
| US08720192B2 |
Engine off particulate filter (“PF”) regeneration using a plurality of secondary energy storage devices
An exhaust gas treatment system for an internal combustion engine is provided. The internal combustion engine has an engine off condition. The exhaust gas treatment system includes particulate filter (“PF”) device in fluid communication with an exhaust gas conduit, an electric heater, a primary energy storage device, a plurality of secondary energy storage devices, and a control module. The PF device has a filter structure for removal of particulates in the exhaust gas, and is selectively regenerated based on an amount of particulates trapped within the filter structure of the PF device. The electric heater is disposed upstream of the filter structure and is selectively energized to provide heat for regeneration of the PF device. The plurality of secondary energy storage devices are selectively connected to the primary energy storage device. The secondary energy storage devices selectively energize the electric heater. |
| US08720190B2 |
Method for predicting SOx stored at DeNOx catalyst and exhaust system using the same
A method for predicting sulfur oxides (SOx) stored at a denitrification (DeNOx) catalyst may include calculations of the mass flow of SOx poisoned at the DeNOx catalyst, the mass flow of SOx released from the DeNOx catalyst, and the SOx amount poisoned at the DeNOx catalyst by integrating the value obtained by subtracting the released mass flow of SOx from the poisoned mass flow of SOx. An exhaust system using the method may comprise an engine having a first injector, an exhaust pipe, a second injector mounted at the exhaust pipe and injecting a reducing agent, a DeNOx catalyst mounted at the exhaust pipe and reducing SOx or nitrogen oxides (NOx) or both contained in the exhaust gas by using the reducing agent, and a control portion electrically connected to the system and performing the calculations and controls. |
| US08720188B2 |
Purification system for variable post injection in LP EGR and control method for the same
A purification system for variable post injection in LP EGR, the system includes a turbo charger disposed downstream of a diesel engine, a DPF (catalyzed particulate filter) disposed downstream of the turbo charger, a NOx reduction apparatus disposed upstream or downstream of the DPF, a bypass line diverged from the DPF for mixing exhaust gas and air inflowing the turbo charger, a exhaust gas control portion disposed downstream of the DPF for controlling flowing of the exhaust gas and a lean/rich controlling portion for controlling lean/rich of the exhaust gas. |
| US08720187B2 |
Exhaust diagnostic control system and method with selective disablement of NOx reduction efficiency diagnostic
An exhaust diagnostic control system comprises a test enabling module, an exhaust gas temperature management module in communication with the test enabling module, and a component management module configured for executing a test for determining a reduction efficiency associated with the after-treatment component. The test enabling module is configured for assessing a reliability of an estimated level of reductant load on an after-treatment component, and, based on the reliability, selectively facilitating disablement of a subsequent test for determining an efficiency of NOx reduction in the after-treatment component. The exhaust gas temperature management module is configured for selectively adjusting a temperature of the after-treatment component to a predetermined temperature range using intrusive exhaust gas temperature management. The test for determining reduction efficiency comprises determining a NOx reduction efficiency of the after-treatment component. |
| US08720183B2 |
Thrust reverser translating sleeve assembly
A translating sleeve assembly for use with an aircraft engine thrust reverser broadly comprises a slider track, a lifting bolt, and a hinge. The slider track may include a tubular sidewall and a guide channel formed therein that follows a curved path along a length thereof. The lifting bolt may be slidably positioned within the slider track. The hinge may include a first hinge element with a base coupled to an outer cowl shroud, a second hinge element with a hinge rod slidably positioned within the guide channel, and a pin about which the first hinge element and the second hinge element pivot. During deployment of the thrust reverser, the lifting bolt slides aftward and the hinge rod slides within the guide channel, urging the lifting bolt to pivot and the hinge to open, thereby lifting the outer cowl shroud away from the center of the aircraft engine. |
| US08720180B2 |
Turbine engine for vehicle
A turbine engine includes an air inlet fluidly coupleable with an air compressor subassembly. The air compressor subassembly is fluidly coupleable with a combustion subassembly. The combustion subassembly generates and combusts ionic hydrogen, and is fluidly coupleable with a mid-turbine subassembly. The mid-turbine subassembly is fluidly coupleable with a rear turbine subassembly. The rear turbine subassembly is fluidly coupleable with an exhaust outlet for exhausting combustion products from said mid-turbine subassembly. The combustion subassembly includes an electrostatic subassembly fluidly coupleable with a combustion chamber subassembly. The combustion chamber subassembly is fluidly coupleable with the mid-turbine subassembly. The air compressor subassembly can compress and humidify air. The electrostatic subassembly can generate ionic hydrogen from the compressed and humidified air, the combustion chamber subassembly can combust the ionic hydrogen, and the mid-turbine subassembly and rear turbine subassembly can rotate with the flow of combustion products therethrough. |
| US08720178B2 |
Component for a line routing system including at least one line routing device, as well as a corresponding line routing device and line routing system
A component for a line routing system including at least one line routing device having at least one section of the surface of the component that is flocked. The component of line routing device is at least one of a chain link, a chain link plate of a chain link, a transverse web of a chain link, a cover of a chain link, a dividing web of a chain link, a guide element, a housing, a line, and a hose. |
| US08720177B2 |
Method and device for producing a three-layer cord
Method of manufacturing a metal cord with three concentric layers (C1, C2, C3), of the type rubberized in situ, i.e. during its manufacture comprising a first, internal, layer or core (C1), around which there are wound together in a helix, at a pitch p2, in a second, intermediate, layer (C2), N wires of diameter d2, N varying from 3 to 12, around which second layer there are wound together as a helix at a pitch p3, in a third, outer, layer (C3), P wires of diameter d3, P varying from 8 to 20, the said method comprising the following steps: a sheathing step in which the core (C1) is sheathed with a rubber composition named “filling rubber”, in the uncrosslinked state; an assembling step by twisting the N wires of the second layer (C2) around the core (C1) thus sheathed in order to form, at a point named the “assembling point”, an intermediate cord named a “core strand” (C1+C2); an assembling step in which the P wires of the third layer (C3) are twisted around the core strand (C1+C2); a final twist-balancing step. |
| US08720172B2 |
Helical acting straight snap roll flutes for corn header
A helical-acting snap roll for a harvesting header having straight flutes which are free of a formed twist. The snap roll includes elongated straight flutes that extend substantially the entire length of the snap roll but that are parallel misaligned with a central axis of rotation of the snap roll. A pair of opposing and counter-rotating snap rolls of the present invention chops and pulls crop stalks passing therebetween downward toward the ground while also creating a helical action such that the crop stalks are conveyed rearward. |
| US08720170B2 |
Header height control with tire flex compensation
A header height control system (208) includes a header height sensor (108) and a tire compression sensor (212) coupled to an electronic control unit (210). The two signals are combined by the electronic control unit (210) to derive a compensated header height signal that compensates for the transient flexure of the pneumatic tires of the vehicle. This compensated header height signal is then used in a header height control algorithm executed by the electronic control unit (210) to control the height of the header (104). |
| US08720167B2 |
Device for sub-dividing tubular packaging into packaging units
The invention relates to an apparatus for subdividing a fed tubular packaging sleeve into packaging units, having two displacer groups which are intended for constricting the tubular packaging sleeve, it being possible for the rear displacer group, as seen in respect of the movement of the tubular packaging sleeve, to be moved in the longitudinal direction of the tubular packaging sleeve, and the apparatus comprises a supporting element which is connected to the rear displacer group and is intended for supporting the tubular packaging sleeve. The supporting element allows the tubular packaging sleeve to be transported away reliably. |
| US08720161B2 |
Mast for a wind turbine
The invention relates to a mast (10) for a wind turbine, which mast tapers towards the top and comprises at least two superposed annular mast sections (12, 14, 16, 18, 20). Every annular mast section consists of a plurality of prefabricated wall parts (A, B, C, D, E, F), wherein at least a part of which has a curved section, at least the curved sections of prefabricated wall parts in different annular mast sections having at least identical cross-section. |
| US08720160B1 |
Process for forming concrete walls and other vertically positioned shapes
A method for forming a vertical wall cavity above a raised foundation having multiple vertical rigid re-enforcement members linearly arrayed and protruding therefrom, the method utilizing spacers secured to re-enforcement members positioned between opposing wall formation panels secured in position, and semi-annular dams supported by center and edge dam supports, the cavity bounded by wall formation panels on two opposing sides and the dams and dam supports on the other two opposing sides. |
| US08720156B2 |
Wall panel attachment system
A panel hanger for flush mounting a wall panel to drywall. The panel hanger includes a cylindrical mounting body adapted for being inserted into a drywall sheet. A control member is rotatably carried by the mounting body. A clamp arm is rotatably carried by the control member. Rotation of the control member draws the clamp arm toward the mounting body and rotates the clamp arm to extend beyond a diameter of the mounting body for engaging the drywall sheet to secure the mounting body to the drywall. A hanger slot is disposed within the mounting body for receiving a hanger member carrying a drywall sheet. |
| US08720153B2 |
Tapered spiral welded structure
A method for creating a tapered spiral welded conical structure where the overall shape of the cone is first graphically slit axially and unwrapped, and then a series of construction arcs and lines are created to form the edge lines of a strip that can then be wrapped (rolled) to form a tapered conical structure. The edges of the spirally wound strip can be welded together, and a very large conical structure can thus be achieved. Various construction options are presented from a constant width strip to strip made from straight segments. Equations are given for the formation of the strips to enable those skilled in the art of spiral welded tubing to practice the invention. |
| US08720152B2 |
Truss hinge with angular variability
A truss hinge that allows hinging between truss parts, and also allows configuration into a different size. |
| US08720150B2 |
Panel
The invention relates to a panel with complementary locking means provided in pairs on opposite panel edges. One of the locking means is hook profiles with a receiving hook and a locking hook. The free step end of the locking hook is designed narrower than the width of the receiving opening of the receiving hook. The locking contour of the locking hook protrudes at least partially past the plane of the joint surface of the receiving hook so that the free step end fits into the receiving opening far enough at first that a part of the horizontal locking surface of the locking hook makes contact with the horizontal locking surface of the receiving hook during a joining motion without elastic deformation of the hook profiles, and that the receiving hook bends so that the width of the receiving opening can be expanded so that the locking step can be inserted entirely into the receiving recess and the locking contour of the locking hook is further inserted into a form-fit contour of the receiving hook. |
| US08720143B2 |
Tile spacer
In an embodiment, a tile spacer for providing spacing between adjacent tiles during installation on an installation surface includes a body portion defining a substantially planar surface, a flange portion extending outward from the body portion along the planar surface and at least one arm member extending from the flange portion substantially perpendicular to the planar surface and configured for insertion between adjacent tiles |
| US08720142B2 |
Stabilized lath and method of manufacture
A lath and method to produce a lath may include furring strand wires with furring bends, transverse wires joined to the furring strand wires to not overlap a furring bend, and a stabilization wire arranged along a serpentine path and joined to the transverse wires. |
| US08720141B2 |
Wall structure with enhanced cladding support
A building structure includes a framework of: (a) metal studs having walls that define an interior channel; (b) a cellular backing material extending lengthwise within the interior channel of at least a portion of the metal studs; (c) a thermally insulating layer extending over multiple metal studs; (d) fasteners extending through the thermally insulating layer, through a wall of a metal stud and into the cellular backing material within the interior channel of the metal stud; and (e) a cladding attached to the framework of metal studs by means of the fasteners. |
| US08720138B2 |
Fire barrier
A fire barrier operable to be placed within a gap formed between two surfaces. The fire barrier may generally include a first intumescent section, a first foam section coupled with the first intumescent section, and a second intumescent section coupled with the first foam section generally opposite the first intumescent section. In some embodiments, the fire barrier may include a plurality of intumescent sections and a plurality of foam sections with each foam section being positioned between at least two of the intumescent sections. |
| US08720132B2 |
Electrical wiring systems for use in roofing applications
The present invention relates generally to electrical systems. The present invention relates more particularly to electrical wiring systems suitable for use in roofing applications. One aspect of the invention is a wiring system on a roof comprising a roof deck having a slope and one or more roofing elements disposed on the roof deck, the wiring system including one or more wires extending along the roof on top of the roofing elements; and a wire covering disposed over the one or more wires. |
| US08720131B2 |
Installation system for PV modules
A mounting system for photovoltaic modules includes at least two profile-shaped cross rails arranged parallel to each other and configured to hold several PV modules. Each cross rail includes plane supporting surfaces. The PV module is mounted by placing it onto the at least two cross rails so that the at least two holders lay flat on the plane supporting surfaces of the at least two cross rails. The PV module is then moved in a joining direction perpendicular to the cross rails while lying on the plane supporting surfaces so that either a recess engages with an integrated protrusion or a protrusion engages with an integrated recess. A retaining safety device is disposed between at least one cross rail and its corresponding holder and is configured to counteract a move against the joining direction. |
| US08720124B2 |
Wall element for repairing a cabin wall structure
A wall element for repairing a wall structure of a sanitary unit of a cabin comprising at least an inner metal sheet, an outer metal sheet and an insulator layer between the inner and outer metal sheets. |
| US08720123B1 |
Rain gutter system for mounting atop a roof
A new rain gutter system includes a set of interlocked segments that are placed about perpendicular to the roof atop the roof. The segments create a channel that is angled from one edge of the roof to the other. The segments also create a non-permeable barrier at the intersection of the segments with the roof which causes the rain runoff running down the slope of the roof to be redirected into the channel and passed to one edge of the roof where it is deposited into a drain. The non-permeable barrier is established by laying a skirt that extends from the bottom of each segment upwards against the slope of the roof. The skirt can be inserted underneath the shingles, sealed with a sealant, or the end of the skirt can be thin enough to rest bare atop the roof and still provide a sufficient barrier. |
| US08720122B1 |
Rain gutter screen assembly
A rain gutter screen assembly is fixed in place over a rain gutter system mounted on a building to prevent the entry of debris into the gutter system. The screen assembly has plural gutter screens with each of the gutter screens having a bead of a water phobic substance engaged on its bottom surface with the bead extending to edges of the screen. The screens are arranged in side-by-side positions such that a bead termination of each one of the beads of each one of the gutter screens is in contact with another bead termination of another one of the beads of another one of the gutter screens so that rain water is unable to bridge the screens but is forced to fall into the gutter system. |
| US08720121B2 |
Fascia gutter system and coverings using the same
A covering employing a fascia gutter is disclosed. The fascia gutter includes a front member, bottom member, a rear member, a ledge, a guiding groove, a protrusion and a receiving space. The bottom member connects the front member to the rear member. The receiving space is defined by the front member, the bottom member, and the rear member. The ledge is connected to the rear member, and the guiding groove is defined in the ledge. An opening is defined by the ledge and the protrusion. |
| US08720119B2 |
Blocking closure of a passageway
A device includes a base attachable to a first side of a door; a swing arm coupled to the base, the swing arm including a bracket flange configured to extend across an edge of the door between the first side of the door and a second side of the door opposite the first side of the door; and a biasing member coupled between the swing arm and the base and configured to urge the swing arm from a retracted position in which the bracket flange is adjacent the edge to an extended position in which the bracket flange is apart from the edge. |
| US08720116B1 |
Hands-free door opener assembly
The hands-free door opener assembly permits a person to open, close and lock a door by employing a forearm or elbow. The system comprises respective push handle members disposed on both the interior and exterior surfaces of the door. Pushing either handle member functions to pivot a latch out of engagement with a latch plate positioned in the door frame. A door opening spring-biased plate is mounted on the latch plate to provide an assist to open the door when the latch is disengaged. The door is provided with a hands-free locking structure on the interior surface. An occupancy alert is disposed on the exterior surface of the door. |
| US08720113B1 |
Non-handed swing door operator
A non-handed door operator comprising a motor connected to a mounting plate; at least one gear assembly coupled to the motor and having a driven gear and a driving gear; a gear coupled to the at least one gear assembly; a shaft fixed to the gear and rotatable around an axis in a first rotational direction, the shaft having a first end and an opposing second end; at least one cam positioned on the shaft and having a shell of revolution about the shaft axis; at least one switch intersecting the shell of revolution of the at least one cam; and an arm attachable to the first end and the second end of the shaft. |
| US08720108B2 |
Optimum density termite bait composition
A composition in compacted form for use for termite monitoring and control comprises a cellulose material which may be purified cellulose or micro-crystalline cellulose as a base bait, the composition being compacted to an optimum density of not less than approximately 1.033 g/cc. Also disclosed is a method for monitoring and controlling termite infestations which comprises the steps of a) preparing such a composition; b) placing the composition in a bait station; c) monitoring the station at periodic time intervals for termites; and d) upon observing termite infestation in the bait station, replacing the above composition with a bait composition containing a termite killing agent. |
| US08720106B2 |
Electrified bird deterrent device with cavity
An animal deterrent device includes an elongated carrier having an internal cavity. A conductive trace can be coupled to the carrier by a first fastener that extends from the conductive trace to the cavity, which prevents water from contacting the fastener and shorting the conductive trace. |
| US08720104B2 |
Customizable fishing lure system and accompanying apparatus
A customized fishing lure system having a lip and a body. The lip being adapted to provide resistance when said fishing lure is moved within water. The body having a keyway adapted to receive, engage and lock the lip. The lip being adapted to releasably engage with the body without the need of another structural element or hand-tool. The lip further having a stem portion and a protrusion portion being adapted to releasably engage within the keyway. The lip is not capable of being releasably disengaged from the body by merely apply a longitudinal tensile force to the lip. The lip is releasably engaged within the keyway by applying a rotational force no greater than 360 degrees. |
| US08720100B1 |
Dual handgun assembly for close combat
A weapon system includes a first handgun, a second handgun and a clamp removably connecting the first handgun and the second handgun. The clamp includes a bracket securing to the first handgun over the grip and above the magazine butt plate. The clamp has a ball joint connected to the bracket below the magazine butt plate. The clamp includes a beam connected to the ball joint. The clamp includes an attachment brace connected to the distal end of the beam. The attachment brace releasably holds the second handgun. The attachment brace is tighten-able to the second handgun such that the muzzle of the second handgun can be adjusted to a rotatable position in three dimensions. The second handgun can also be fired when in such rotatable position. |
| US08720099B1 |
Multi-axis adjustable buttstock
A multi-axis adjustable buttstock is taught that incorporates a buttstock, having, a grip neck, and a butt along with an interfaced set of two serrated grip retainers attached onto the buttstock grip neck, for buttstock tilt adjustment. A plurality of selectable flat and tapered grip spacers engage the grip serrated retainers for trigger grip length, cast and drop adjustment of the buttstock. A flanged stock bolt is disposed through a portion of the buttstock retaining the spacers and grip retainers while being embraced tightly by a first lock ring. A threaded rod is inserted into the buttstock a desired distance for length of pull adjustment and a second threaded lock ring is positioned on the threaded rod for securement. A recoil pad adapter plate, having a plurality of concentric holes, is attached to the threaded rod, for recoil pad slant adjustment, and a recoil pad is attached to the adapter plate aligned with selected recoil pad holes for recoil pad height and angle adjustments. |
| US08720093B2 |
Recoil reducing buffer and stock adaptor for firearms
A recoil reducing buffer and stock adaptor having a front portion adapted to fit into and connectively engage with the backplate of an H&K-style rifle and a rear portion comprising an aperture adapted to accept and connectively engage with an AR-15/M16 buffer tube. The adaptor attaches to an H&K-style rifle between the action or receiver and the buttstock and allows the rifle to accept and function with a larger and/or stronger H&K-style rifle buffer than its original factory-installed buffer. The adaptor reduces the recoil of an H&K-style rifle by allowing the rifle to function with a larger and/or stronger H&K-style recoil buffer than its original factory-installed buffer. The adaptor also makes substantially all existing H&K-style rifles compatible with substantially all current and existing H&K-style rifle stocks and AR-style rifle stocks and stock accessories. |
| US08720092B2 |
Electronic device for a firearm
The invention relates to a an electronic device for the location of a firearm, comprising a processing module, a storage module operatively associated with the processing module, a detection module of a shot fired from a firearm operatively associated with the processing module, a transmit/receive module, operatively associated to the processing module, to allow the processing module to transmit/receive information representative of the electronic device position. The processing module results configured to transmit information representative of a shot fired from the firearm by means of the transmit/receive module. |
| US08720089B1 |
Ultra-thin retractable label holder for rack-mounted electrical chassis
A label holder for a chassis having: a frame having a window therein and a flat, label holding member disposed within the window. The label holding member includes an integrally formed: frontal handle portion projecting outwardly from an outer edge of the chassis; label mounting surface portion disposed rearward of the handle; and flexible, serpentine spring portion disposed between the label mounting surface portion and a rearward end portion of the label holding member. The label holding member slides forward and rearward within the window. The spring portion has a plurality of elongated members traversing sides of the frame and interconnected at edges thereof by curved interconnecting sections, and wherein material forming the interconnecting sections is reduced progressively from a rearward portion of the spring towards a frontal portion of the spring. |
| US08720083B2 |
Waterproof vapor-permeable shoe
A waterproof vapor-permeable shoe, including an upper part that delimits a foot insertion region; a sole, made mainly of plastic material, provided with at least one region which is diffusely perforated with through holes in the direction of a walking surface; a vapor-permeable or perforated flat element, rigidly coupled to the lower part of the sole on which the tread of the sole is formed or rigidly coupled, the flat element adapted to limit the formation of hollows in the foot insertion region at the projection of the holes of the diffusely perforated region; and a waterproof vapor-permeable membrane associated with the upper part and/or with the sole; the membrane being arranged above the flat element so as to be superimposed on the diffusely perforated region. |
| US08720079B2 |
Modular aeration assembly for grain bins
A grain aeration assembly is provided for a hopper bottom bin, and includes a plurality of curved wall segments sized to pass through the manhole of the bin. The wall segments are assembled inside the bin to form a cylindrical tower extending upwardly. The wall segments include an internal frame and inner and outer screens. The tower is supported above the sloped floor of the bin by a plurality of legs. An air conduit extends between the tower and an exterior fan, which provides forced air into the space between the inner and outer screens of the wall segments. The air flows outwardly through the screens, while grain or stored material is prevented from passing through the screens into the wall segments. |
| US08720077B1 |
Photographic aid measuring tape
A photographic aid measuring tape is formed of a flexible, tearable substrate having regularly spaced markings on the top side and an adhesive on the back side to allow the invention to be temporarily affixed to an object or item, such as a wall, ceiling or floor. The invention has markings of sufficient size to be readable in a photograph taken of the event using a digital camera and the image viewed using standard software on a conventional computer. |
| US08720075B2 |
Power takeoff gasket selection tools and methods
Devices and methods to facilitate proper installation of a power takeoff on a transmission are disclosed. Embodiments include gauges and methods that enable users to properly select the thickness of the gasket between the power takeoff and the transmission housing to minimize gear backlash and gear interference while installing a power takeoff on a transmission. In one embodiment, the gauge is of unitary construction with at least one surface adapted to contact the transmission housing and another surface adapted to avoid contact with the transmission gear by at least 2/1000 inches and at most 3/100 inches when the gasket thickness is proper for minimizing gear backlash and interference. Alternate embodiments include cutouts that aid in aligning the gauge within the transmission housing and can assist in determining the appropriate gasket thickness. |
| US08720072B2 |
Razor with three-axis multi-position capability
A razor includes a handle and detachable blade cartridge. The end of the handle has a pivot sphere upon which the blade cartridge is rotatably mounted, with freedom to pivot around three axes of the handle, and otherwise holds its orientation relative to the handle. The blade cartridge is held to the pivot sphere by a clevis having recesses defined in at least the inner side surfaces of its legs. The recesses, together with the clevis, are sized to admit the pivot sphere between them and to hold the sphere therein once admitted. The clevis and/or the pivot sphere can be formed of a resilient injection molded plastic. The range of motion of the blade cartridge can be limited by forming one or more stops on the pivot sphere to interact with the clevis and thereby interrupt its free rotation. |
| US08720071B2 |
Weed trimmer with accuracy shield
A weed trimmer having an accuracy shield. The accuracy shield is a generally planar, circular configuration that is attached to a weed trimmer at a location in a plane generally parallel to the plane of the rotating line and in close proximity thereto between the rotating line and the housing having a debris shield. The accuracy shield protects the line from being severed too short and also provides a convenient guide for edging wherein the cut is uniform and easy to control. |
| US08720065B2 |
Valved sheath introducer for venous cannulation
A valved sheath introducer for venous cannulation, including a valve, sheath, handle and cap. The valve is configured to permit safe introduction and removal of medical instruments through the sheath introducer. The valve may have one or more anchoring members and a thickened central portion through which a slit is formed. The central portion may have one or more concave surfaces and the slit can be angled with respect to the top surface of the valve. The cap is attached to the handle, compressing a portion of the valve therebetween. |
| US08720062B2 |
Molding method for a thin-profile composite capillary structure
A molding method for a thin-profile composite capillary structure includes the steps of preparing a metal grid and metal powder separately; attaching a liquid medium onto the metal grid by means of spraying or brushing or steeping; attaching uniformly the metal powder onto the grid with the liquid medium; and fixing the metal powder onto the surface of the grid by means of sintering, such that a sintered powder layer is formed onto the surface of the grid. The structure includes a metal grid, which is of planar grid pattern made of woven metal wires. A sintered powder layer is sintered onto a lateral surface of the metal grid from the metal powder. The thickness of the sintered powder layer is 0.1 mm-0.7 mm. The total thickness of the thin-profile composite capillary structure is 0.2 mm-0.8 mm, thus presenting flexibility. The thin-profile composite capillary structure is particularly suitable for a heat pipe. |
| US08720060B2 |
Transition duct
A transition duct is provided for coupling a combustor and a turbine section of a gas turbine. The transition duct includes a transition duct skin. The transition duct skin comprises a first surface section, a second surface section, and a clinch welded joint connecting the first surface section and the second surface section. Also provided is a method for manufacturing such a transition duct. |
| US08720059B2 |
Apparatus and method for aircraft engine core exchange
A method and ground support equipment (GSE) for attaching an engine core to an engine fan module on an aircraft pylon. The GSE may comprise GSE supports and lifting components attached to the pylon, two suspension rails attached to the lifting components, two translating rails translatably attached to the two suspensions rails and fixedly attached to opposite sides of the engine core, and two alignment fittings fixed to the engine fan module. The method of using the GSE may comprise lifting the engine core vertically using the lifting components and anchoring the suspension rails to the alignment fittings. The translating rails and engine core may then be translated in an aft-to-forward direction such that portions of the translating rails engage portions of the alignment fittings to cooperatively guide the translating rails into a final forward position in which the engine core is aligned relative to the engine fan module. |
| US08720058B2 |
Method of repairing a wind turbine blade
A method of repairing a wind turbine blade while mounted on a tower without removing the blade from the tower is provided. The method may begin by positioning the wind turbine blade in a substantially vertical orientation. Next, a containment structure is suspended from a nacelle via a hoisting system that positions the containment structure at a damaged portion of the blade. The damaged portion is enclosed within the containment structure and the temperature of the air within the containment structure is controlled. The blade is repaired by removing a damaged portion of the blade, and installing a repair portion to the blade where the damaged portion was removed. The method may conclude by operating the hoisting system to remove the containment structure from the blade. |
| US08720052B2 |
Method for continuous sintering on indefinite length webs
A method of applying a conductive pattern of metal onto a web of indefinite length material. This method includes applying a metal containing composition onto the web in a predefined pattern, providing a roll having a very low thermal mass, and conveying the patterned web around the roll while simultaneously applying heat energy to the metal containing composition thereby converting the metal to a conductive pattern. This allows for flexible circuitry to be fabricated in an inexpensive roll-to-roll process. |
| US08720047B2 |
Method for making microstructured objects
Described herein are casting and molding methods useful for making microstructured objects. By including a plurality of microfeatures on the surface of an object, other characteristics may be imparted to the object, such as increased hydrophobicity. Some of the casting and molding methods described herein further allow for manufacture of objects having both microfeatures and macro features, for example microfeatures on or within macro features or selected macro feature regions. |
| US08720046B2 |
Production system general-purpose cell
In a production system general-purpose cell for general-purpose use in processing and transportation of a received workpiece in a production system of processing and delivering the workpiece, the production system general-purpose cell includes a base unit having a planar shape of quadrangle and supporting at least a robot for use in transportation of the workpiece such that the robot is movable on the planar area of quadrangle, a parts supply unit for supplying parts of the workpiece to the robot supported by the base unit, and a processing area extending outside the base unit. The robot supported by the base unit having a motion range set in a range from inside to outside the base unit in a form including at least part of the processing area. |
| US08720044B1 |
Method for manufacturing a magnetic recording transducer having side shields
A method for manufacturing a magnetic transducer is described. The method includes providing a negative mask having a bottom, a plurality of sides, and a top wider than the bottom. The method also includes depositing a nonmagnetic layer on the negative mask. The nonmagnetic layer has a plurality of portions covering the plurality of sides of the negative mask. The method also includes providing a first mask having a first trench therein. The negative mask resides in the first trench. The method further includes depositing side shield material(s), at least a portion of which resides in the first trench. The method further includes removing the negative mask to create a second trench between the plurality of portions of the nonmagnetic layer and form a pole, at least a portion of which resides in the second trench. |
| US08720043B2 |
Method of allocating resources in a rack system
A method of allocating resources in a rack system includes establishing a budgeted amount of a resource for a defined amount of rack space in a rack system. Electrical modules are deployed in a particular space in the rack system having the defined amount of rack space such that the amount of the resource used by the electrical modules in the particular rack space is maintained within the budgeted amount of the resource. |
| US08720038B2 |
Method and device to remove pipe
A pipe removal method includes navigating a flexible element through a first pipe. At least a portion of the flexible element is coupled with the first pipe. The flexible element and the first pipe are pulled as a composite assembly, and the flexible element reinforces the tensile strength of the first pipe. In one example, the first pipe is at least pulled in compression between the point of coupling between the flexible element and the first pipe and a proximal end of the flexile element. In another example, the method includes wrapping the composite assembly around a spool. The composite assembly is thereby removed from the ground surrounding the first pipe. |
| US08720034B2 |
Head assembly attaching method, cylindrical jig, and caulking ball
A method of attaching a head assembly having an annular hollow boss to an arm having a through hole of a carriage is provided. The head assembly includes a load beam of a head suspension and a base plate fixed to a base part of the load beam. The boss is formed on the base plate. The method includes steps of, inserting the boss into the through hole, thereby setting the head assembly to the arm of the carriage, supplying lubricant along the cylindrical jig to the caulking ball and pushing the caulking ball with the cylindrical jig to pass the caulking ball through an inside of the boss and diametrally expand and plastically deform the boss, thereby fixedly fitting the boss of the head assembly to the through hole of the arm of the carriage. The method causes no deformation of a flange formed on the base plate during caulking and is achievable at low cost. |
| US08720030B2 |
Blown cable apparatus and method
Apparatus for installing a cable into a tube with the assistance of a fluid drag acting on the cable within the tube with an installation device, the apparatus including a driving mechanism comprising a driving surface arranged to contact the cable substantially along the full driving surface length, for driving the cable into the tube, a first measurement device for obtaining a first value indicative of a rate at which the installation device is driving the cable into the tube, a second measurement device for obtaining a second value indicative of a rate at which the cable is travelling through the apparatus, a processor for detecting when the first value exceeds the second value, and for reducing the rate at which the installation device is driving the cable into the tube for the duration when the first value exceeds the second value. |
| US08720021B2 |
Method for increasing thickness of non-woven fabric and apparatus for implementing the same
The present invention utilizes jet streams of hot gas at a high efficiency and thereby to increase a bulk of non-woven fabric. Non-woven fabric containing thermoplastic synthetic fibers is subjected to jet streams of hot gas in a thickness direction of the non-woven fabric. A temperature of the jet streams of hot gas used for this process is set to a level lower than the temperature at which a resinous ingredient forming the surface of the thermoplastic begins to be melted. The jet streams of hot gas are directed to penetrate fiber interstices in the non-woven fabric and then to strike on a means serving to divert the jet streams of hot gas. |
| US08720017B2 |
Locking mechanism
A locking mechanism for joining an elongate member to an assembly may include a frame, clamp, actuator and link between the clamp and actuator. Stop surfaces on the clamp and actuator cooperate to secure the elongate member. A pin and the force transmitted by a compression spring may further be provided for additional security. The link between the clamp and actuator retracts the clamp permitting the elongate member to be detached from the assembly. A linear actuator may be operatively disposed between the frame and the actuator for opening and closing the clamp about the elongate member. |
| US08720013B2 |
Trigger grip
A trigger grip (100) includes a body (10) including an upper jaw (11) extending laterally, a pivot section (12) depending from one end of the upper jaw (11), and a sleeve section (13) depending from another end of the upper jaw (11), the sleeve section (13) having a slot (131) and an extension (132) depending from the slot (131); a pivotal link (20) pivotably secured to the pivot section (12); a lever (30) having a first hole (31) at one end, a second hole (32) at the other end, and a protuberance (33) depending from the other end, the lever (30) being inserted through the slot (131) with its first hole (31) pivotably secured to the pivotal link (20); and a bifurcated gripping seat (40) pivotably secured to the pivotal link (20) and having a jaw member (41) engaged with the upper jaw (11) from below in an inoperative position. |
| US08720012B2 |
Fastener for document folder
A fastener for a document folder includes a base plate, a hook bracket and torsion springs. The front end of the base plate is extended upwards and curled to form a bending section. A slot is formed by the surrounding of the bending section. Rotating shafts on two sides of the front end of the hook bracket are respectively arranged at two ends of the inside of the slot. The torsion springs are respectively sleeved on the rotating shafts on two sides of the front end of the hook bracket. Some ends of the torsion springs are fixed on the rotating shafts and the other ends of the torsion springs are fixed on the base plate. End sections of the rotating shafts are bent upwards to form retaining sections. Clamp holes are engaged with the retaining sections and used for fastener opening formed on the front of the bending section. |
| US08720010B2 |
Damping device, furniture hinge and furniture
A damping device for damping a relative movement of device parts of a device for pivoting and/or displacing a furniture part guided movably on a furniture body is proposed, the damping device comprising a damper housing with an inner volume and an inner part accommodated in the inner volume, the damper housing and the inner part executing a relative movement during a damping action, so that, during the relative movement, wall portions delimiting the inner volume and an at least essentially cylindrical portion of the inner part can be moved past and opposite one another. According to the invention, the wall portions have an essentially hollow-cylindrical basic shape, guide means portions projecting in regions into the hollow-cylindrical basic shape, which guide means portions are in bearing contact against the cylindrical portion of the inner part during the relative movement. |
| US08720008B2 |
Horizontally adjustable hinge for use with heavy insulated doors
A hinge for use with an insulated door of a walk-in freezer, refrigerator or cooler including a hinge base adapted to be attached to the frame of said freezer, refrigerator or cooler, a hinge blade pivotally coupled to the hinge base and a wall that extends across the hinge base which has a U shaped clearance opening. Fastening screws located in clearance openings in the hinge blade and threadedly coupled to a door mounting plate adapted to be securely attached to the insulated door for slidably or securely coupling the hinge blade to the door mounting plate, and a micro adjust screw having a threaded shaft located in the U shaped clearance opening and threadedly coupled to the door mounting plate, wherein turning the micro adjust screw slides the door mounting plate horizontally along the hinge blade to provide door lift or rotation to compensate for frame or mounting misalignment. |
| US08720004B2 |
Floor tool
A floor tool for a cleaning appliance includes a head for engaging with a floor surface, a connecting arm pivotally connected to the head about a first axis and a supporting body pivotally connected to the head about a second axis. The head includes a suction opening which lies in a suction plane. The connecting arm includes an outlet in communication with the suction opening and adapted to connect to the cleaning appliance. The connecting arm is adapted and arranged to engage with the supporting body so that when, in use, the floor tool is pushed forwardly across the floor surface, the connecting arm applies a force to the head in a direction away from the floor surface. This allows the floor tool to be of reduced depth than was achievable hitherto while still being able to achieve the desired “rocking” motion to improve cleaning performance. |
| US08720002B2 |
Handle assembly for a cleaning appliance
A handle assembly for a cleaning appliance such as a vacuum cleaner includes a flexible hose having a first end that is connectable to a main body of the cleaning appliance and a second end, a handle portion for maneuvering the handle assembly during use and a tubular wand. The second end of the flexible hose is connected to the handle portion, and the tubular wand is slidably mounted in the handle portion so as to be movable between a first position in which the tubular wand extends beyond the handle portion inside the flexible hose and a second position in which the tubular wand extends beyond the handle portion away from the flexible hose. |
| US08719999B2 |
Method and apparatus for cleaning surfaces with high pressure electrolyzed fluid
A mobile surface cleaner includes a mobile body, a least one wheel, a source of a fluid, a pump, a sprayer hose connectable to a fitting on the mobile body, a high pressure spray gun connectable to the sprayer hose, and a functional generator. The functional generator includes first and second electrode chambers, which are separated by an ion exchange membrane. A flow path extends from the fluid source to the fitting and passes through the functional generator. The flow path is configured to combine all the fluid produced in the first and second electrode chambers to form a combined fluid on the cleaner. A control circuit is coupled to the pump and the functional generator and is configured to energize the pump to pump the fluid along the flow path and energize the functional generator to electrochemically activate the liquid that is passed through the functional generator. |
| US08719996B1 |
Systems and methods for cleaning and conditioning a moving surface
A cleaning apparatus is disclosed for processing a moving surface. The cleaning apparatus includes a pad that is attached to a support structure, wherein the pad includes a plurality of pad apertures and the support structure includes a plurality of support structure apertures. A vacuum is provided proximate the plurality of support structure apertures for removing debris from a moving surface during use as well as for facilitating cooling of the pad during use. |
| US08719994B2 |
Connector for installing and articulating a windscreen wiper on the end of a drive arm
A connector between a windscreen wiper and a drive arm, with the wiper extending in a longitudinal direction, and the connector being capable of being installed in a free end of the arm, includes an attachment part equipped with a housing open towards a bottom and allowing removable attachment according to a vertical direction of the wiper with the connector, and elastically deformable locking means having a portion that is capable of ensuring locking in the longitudinal direction of the connector in an installed position thereof in the free end of the arm. The attachment part is designed to cooperate with an installation element other than the locking means and is permanently fixed to the wiper. The locking means comprise a tab that extends in the longitudinal direction. |
| US08719991B2 |
Cleaning implement
Novel cleaning implements and novel components of cleaning implements are provided. Aspects relate to novel wringers having convex regions with a plurality of drain exits. In some embodiments, concave regions are also provided. The concave regions are substantially devoid of any drain exits. An upper portion of the wringer may be substantially cylindrical or conic-cylindrical and a lower portion may be neither cylindrical nor conic-cylindrical. The bottom perimeter of the bottom may define a square-like shape. Further aspects relate to novel connection assemblies. Certain assemblies may have a top portion with a vertical wall that is configured to position mop fibers along a vertical axis. |
| US08719984B2 |
Segmented air foam mattress
An air foam mattress system includes a foam top component, and a foundation component including a plurality of segmented, individually wrapped, inflatable air cells allowing for a plurality of pivot points, a segmented perimeter, and individual pressure adjustment of the segments for maximum patient comfort in all articulated bed positions. In an embodiment, the air cell contains a u-shaped insert providing segmented perimeter sections integral to the air cell. In another embodiment, the air cell contains a trapezoidal shaped insert with multiple segments having different degrees of foam stiffness. |
| US08719983B2 |
Inflatable body contour support cushion
An inflatable body contour support cushion comprises a bladder comprising a flexible material. Said bladder is configured to retain a quantity of material to maintain said bladder in a flaccid state in which the material flows freely within said bladder. Said bladder is further configured to support a body contour by filling the space between the body contour and a surface against which the body contour is resting. A valve mechanism is configured to enable addition and removal of the material from said bladder in which a user can adjust a level of the support. |
| US08719981B2 |
Pillow with neck support
A pillow having a bladder for containing fluid or gas and on top of which compressible fill is to float. The pillow includes an elongate neck support mat atop an upper surface of the bladder, under the compressible fill, and extending along the substantially the length of one side of the bladder. The elongate mat provides upwards neck support when a user's head displaces fluid or gas by applying a downwards force near the center portion of the bladder. |
| US08719979B2 |
Patient positioning support structure
A patient support system includes independently adjustable end columns supporting a centrally hinged, jointed or breaking patient support structure. At least one column includes a powered rotation assembly. The patient support includes at least two sections. A coordinated drive system provides for both upwardly and downwardly breaking or jointed orientations of the two sections in various inclined and tilted positions. Cable, cantilevered and pull-rod systems are included. |
| US08719978B2 |
Patient support apparatus and medical imaging apparatus comprising the patient support apparatus
A patient support apparatus, in particular for a medical imaging apparatus, has a table for supporting a patient, and a support unit, wherein the table is arranged at the support unit such that the table may be displaced along a longitudinal extension of the support unit. Further, the patient support apparatus has a protective wall element which closes off a region for receiving fluids on the table and/or on the support unit in a fluid-tight manner. |
| US08719973B2 |
Portable toilet
A portable toilet with mechanism that causes the toilet to flush as the door to the toilet enclosure is opened. |
| US08719971B2 |
Lavatory dispensing devices
The present invention relates to improved toilet dispensing devices for use in conjunction with a sanitary appliance, particularly a toilet. |
| US08719968B2 |
Adjustable facial protector
A head gear assembly for protecting a user's head, the assembly having an upper head portion; a facial protector connectively attached to the upper head portion; and a movable armature for movable engagement to at least a portion of the facial protector, wherein engagement between the movable armature and the least a portion of the facial protector forms at least one gap a gap further comprising a gap size, and wherein the gap size is adjustable from a first size to a plurality of other sizes. |
| US08719967B2 |
Helmet
A helmet, especially a cricket or other sports helmet, comprises an outer shell member and, disposed adjacent its inner surface, a layer comprising an inflatable element operatively connected with inflation mechanism. The layer comprising the inflatable element preferably comprises a plurality of individual cells or pockets defined by a fluid-impermeable plastics membrane material, the individual cells or pockets being mutually in communication for pressurization and pressure-release purposes and connected to the inflation mechanism. The cells or pockets may contain impact-absorption or cushioning materials which are preferably porous to allow absorption and desorption of the inflation fluid. |
| US08719965B2 |
Apparel incorporating a protective element
An article of apparel may include may include a garment portion and at least one protective element. The garment portion and the protective element have a configuration that forms a gap, separation, or pleat structure through, for example, folding or overlapping of a textile element of the garment portion. The gap, separation, or pleat structure may permit the protective element to move independent of other portions of the apparel, thereby enhancing a range of movement of the individual and the overall comfort of the apparel. |
| US08719964B2 |
Thin-wall polymer coated articles and gloves and a method therefor
The present invention relates to articles and gloves having a polymer coating on at least a portion of the article or gloves's surface, wherein the polymer coating comprises a polyurethane dispersion made from the reaction product of an isocyanate functional prepolymer, a chain extender, and a chain terminator; and methods for making the same. The articles and gloves of the present invention have improved flexibility, breathability, dexterity and feel, and provide self-sanitizing and self-deodorizing capabilities and improved non-slip grip performance in dry, wet, humid and lubricated conditions. |
| US08726411B1 |
Charged probe and electric fields measurement method thereof
A charged probe and an electric field measuring method are provided. The probe can be charged with single electricity on single nano particle attached on the top of the probe tip being a charged probe and the probe is applicable for measuring the electric fields of object in the nano scale. The probe comprises an insulating tip base, a cantilever and a single nano-particle. The cantilever is arranged for supporting the insulating tip base and the single nano-particle is configured on the erosion plane. After conducting contact electrification method to charge the electric nano particle, the single nano-particle will be charged with fixed number of single electrical charge. Then, the amount of the fixed number of single electrical charge is calculated by the virtual image charge calculation method. The charged probe can be used to measure the electric fields distribution by tapping mode or f-d curve measurement. |
| US08726409B2 |
Method for driving a scanning probe microscope at elevated scan frequencies
A method for operating a scanning probe microscope at elevated scan frequencies has a characterization stage of sweeping a plurality of excitation frequencies of the vertical displacement of the scanning element; measuring the value attained by the reading parameter at the excitation frequencies; and identifying plateau regions of the response spectrum of the reading parameter. The reading parameter variation is limited within a predetermined range over a predefined frequency interval, thereby defining corresponding fast scanning frequency windows in which the microscope assembly is sufficiently stable to yield a lateral resolution comparable to the one obtained during slow measurements. The measurement stage includes driving the scanning element along at least a scanning trajectory over the surface of the specimen at a frequency selected among the frequencies included in a fast scanning frequency window. |
| US08726407B2 |
Authentication of computing and communications hardware
A method for authenticating a computing device or hardware component includes computer-implemented process steps for assigning a unique identifier to the hardware component, generating a baseline fingerprint for the hardware component using algorithm-processing characteristic configuration data determined from the hardware component as input, wherein the baseline fingerprint is capable of being regenerated from the hardware component so long as configuration of the hardware component is not changed, transmitting the identifier in association with the baseline fingerprint for storage in a computer-readable data structure, and generating a data signal, in response to a query comprising the assigned identifier, indicating whether the stored baseline fingerprint for the assigned identifier matches a second fingerprint regenerated from the hardware component at a time after the baseline fingerprint is generated. |
| US08726406B2 |
Controlling a usage of digital data between terminals of a telecommunications network
A method and control of using a content data object associated to a content controlling terminal of a communications network, and receiving a request from a content receiving terminal to get a digital rights data object associated to the content data object, that is required to use the content data object, and initiating a transmission of the digital rights data object from the content controlling terminal to the content receiving terminal, and a control supporting server thereto. Also generating the digital rights data object, receiving a notification to send the digital rights data object to the content receiving terminal, and sending the digital rights data object to the content receiving terminal, and a content, controlling terminal thereto. |
| US08726402B2 |
Media processing system supporting different media formats via server-based transcoding
Systems and methods that reformat media are described. In one embodiment, a system may include, for example, a server, a first communications device and a second communications device. The server, the first communications device and the second communications device may be operatively coupled to a network. The second communications device may receive, from the first communications device, a device profile relating to the first communications device and may send the device profile and media content to the server. The server may reformat the media content based on the device. |
| US08726400B1 |
Ex post facto review of claims made against proprietary content in a live data stream
Systems and methods for detection and dispute management of claims made against proprietary content in a live data stream are provided in this disclosure. The system includes a reference stream generation component that updates a set of reference data streams based on an identification of data that is associated with non-live content (e.g., advertisements, flashbacks, etc.). Moreover, user generated content is compared with the set of reference data streams to facilitate identify the claims and a partner-defined policy is applied to the user generated content to facilitate dispute management and/or resolution. |
| US08726399B1 |
Method and apparatus for thwarting spyware
A trusted apparatus including an input filter, security mode indicator working with a proxy node thwart the possibility of spyware being able to observe user input when a security mode signal indicates security mode asserted. The trusted apparatus may further include any combination of the user input device, the proxy node, and a router. A personal computing device may include the trusted apparatus. The proxy node may include the router. The proxy node operates to create an authentic response based upon the authentic input from the input filter, and may be operated to create revenue, which is also a product of these processes. |
| US08726390B1 |
Controlling network access based on application detection
This specification generally relates to controlling access of a device to a network based on detection of a network application running on the device. One example method includes maintaining one or more application profiles, each application profile associated with one or more network activities in a network; detecting one or more network activities associated with a device connected to the network; determining that the one or more detected network activities associated with the device substantially match network activities associated with a first application profile; and associating the device with a restricted network profile upon determining that the one or more detected network activities substantially match network activities associated with the first application profile, the restricted network profile configured to deny access by the device to one or more first resources on the network, and configured to allow access by the device to one or more second resources on the network. |
| US08726387B2 |
Detecting a trojan horse
A method and apparatus for detecting a Trojan horse in a suspicious version of a software application in the form of at least one electronic file. A computer device determines a source from which the suspicious version of the software application was obtained. A comparison is then made between the source from which the suspicious version of the software application was obtained and a source from which an original, clean version of the software application was obtained. If the sources differ, then it is determined that the suspicious version of the software application is more likely to contain a Trojan horse than if the sources were the same. |
| US08726386B1 |
Systems and methods for detecting malware
A computer-implemented method for detecting malware may include 1) identifying an application configured to use a permission on a mobile computing platform, the permission enabling the application to access a feature of the mobile computing platform, 2) determining that the application is configured to use the permission while executing as a background application on the mobile computing platform, 3) determining that the use of the permission is suspect based on the application being configured to use the permission while executing as the background application, and 4) performing a remediation action in response to determining that the use of the permission is suspect. Various other methods, systems, and computer-readable media are also disclosed. |
| US08726385B2 |
Distributed system and method for tracking and blocking malicious internet hosts
Disclosed are systems and methods to perform coordinated blocking of source addresses, such as an Internet Protocol (IP) addresses, across a plurality of network appliances (e.g., gateways). In one disclosed embodiment the method and system temporarily alter a configuration of one or more network appliances (based on user defined configuration parameters) to allow communication from a “blocked” IP address for a period of time. A network appliance can then “receive” an email and perform analysis and provide results of the analysis to a reputation service. Thereby, the temporarily allowed communication can be used to learn information about a threat which would not have been available if all communication from that IP address had actually been blocked at the network appliance. |
| US08726382B2 |
Methods and systems for automated detection and tracking of network attacks
Methods for tracking attacking nodes are described and include extracting, from a database, an instance of each unique packet header associated with IP-to-IP packets transmitted over a time period. The method includes determining from extracted headers, which nodes have attempted to establish a connection with an excessive number of other nodes over a period, identifying these as potential attacking nodes, determining from the headers, which other nodes responded with a TCP SYN/ACK packet indicating a willingness to establish connections, and a potential for compromise. Nodes scanned by potential attacking nodes are disqualified from the identified nodes based on at least one of: data in the headers relating to at least one of an amount of data transferred, and scanning activities conducted by the nodes that responded to a potential attacking node with a TCP SYN/ACK packet. Any remaining potential attacking nodes and scanned nodes are presented to a user. |
| US08726380B2 |
Methods, devices, systems, and computer program products for edge driven communications network security monitoring
An edge monitoring approach can be utilized to detect an attack which includes a plurality of relatively low bandwidth attacks, which are aggregated at a victim sub-network. The aggregated low bandwidth attacks can generate a relatively high bandwidth attack including un-solicited data traffic directed to the victim' so that the aggregated attack becomes more detectable at an edge monitor circuit located proximate to the victim. Related systems, devices, and computer program products are also disclosed. |
| US08726375B2 |
Method and device for preventing domain name system spoofing
A method for preventing Domain Name System (DNS) spoofing includes: performing uppercase/lowercase conversion for letters of a DNS question field in a DNS request packet according to a preset rule; sending the DNS request packet; receiving a DNS response packet; obtaining uppercase/lowercase distribution of the letters of the DNS question field in the DNS response packet; and forwarding the DNS response packet to a target DNS client if the uppercase/lowercase distribution of the letters of the DNS question field in the DNS response packet complies with the preset rule. Corresponding to the method, a device for preventing DNS spoofing is disclosed. The method and device reduce occupation of storage resources of the device. |
| US08726374B2 |
Tampering monitoring system, control device, and tampering control method
A management device detects whether any normal monitoring module that has not been tampered with exists by referring to monitoring results received from an information security device and selects, when existence is detected, one of the monitoring modules and assumes that the selected monitoring module has been tampered with. The monitoring device then successively applies a procedure to monitoring modules other than the selected monitoring module by referring to the monitoring results, starting from the selected monitoring module, the procedure being to assume that any monitoring module determining that a monitoring module assumed to have been tampered with is normal has also been tampered with. As a result of the procedure, when all of the monitoring modules are assumed to have been tampered with the management device determines the selected monitoring module to be a normal monitoring module that has not been tampered with. |
| US08726370B2 |
Controlling image forming function
An apparatus, method, system, computer program and product each capable of controlling addition of a printing function or controlling use of the printing function are disclosed. |
| US08726369B1 |
Trusted path, authentication and data security
In some embodiments, techniques for computer security comprise presenting a data field in a spoof-resistant manner, receiving field data, and securing field data. In some embodiments, the integrity of an input device may be verified.In some embodiments, techniques for computer security comprise hashing a credential and a characteristic associated with a data recipient, and performing password-authenticated key agreement using the hashed value.In some embodiments, techniques for computer security comprise monitoring an input, determining that the input is associated with confidential information, and enabling secure data entry. |
| US08726365B2 |
Multi mode operation using user interface lock
A system and a method are disclosed for a computer implemented method to unlock a mobile computing device and access applications (including services) on a mobile computing device through a launcher. The configuration includes mapping one or more applications with a guest access code. The configuration receives, through a display screen of a mobile computing device, an access code, and determines whether the received access code corresponds with the guest access code. The configuration identifies the mapped applications corresponding to the guest access code and provides for display, on a screen of the mobile computing device, the identified applications. |
| US08726360B2 |
Telecommunication method, computer program product and computer system
The invention relates to a telecommunication method having the following steps: establishing a first connection (101) between a first ID token (106) and a first computer system (136) via a second computer system (100) for reading at least one first attribute from the first ID token, generating a first soft token, wherein the first soft token comprises the at least one first attribute and a time specification, and wherein the first soft token is signed by the first computer system, sending the first soft token from the first computer system to a third computer system (150), wherein the first connection is a connection with end-to-end encryption. |
| US08726359B2 |
Method and system for content distribution management
A method of managing content related to a plurality of social networking websites. The method comprises accessing a first account that stores user's authentication information of the plurality of the networking websites and connecting to the plurality of social networking websites. Content associated with a second account is obtained from each of the plurality of social networking websites and service capabilities of each of the plurality of social networking websites are tracked. The obtained content from all the social networking websites is displayed on a single page and service information applicable to content is provided. |
| US08726352B2 |
Administration of access control keys in a virtual world
A system and method for access control key administration in a virtual world that includes identifying an action to be performed on a key provided to a user controlling an avatar in a virtual world. The key provides the avatar access to a virtual space, a service, or an item in the virtual world. The action is applied to the key. The action is applied to the key to modify one or more access parameters on the key. The action applied to the key may be, for example, an update action, a revalidate action, or a remove action. |
| US08726344B1 |
Methods, systems, and products for measuring trust scores of devices
Methods, systems, and products are disclosed for measuring trust. A device is encountered. A trust score for the device is calculated and compared to a threshold. The threshold may be a minimum trust score associated with the function. If the calculated trust score equals or exceeds the threshold, then the function is executed. If the calculated trust score is less than the threshold, then the function is denied. |
| US08726340B2 |
Apparatus and method for expert decisioning
According to one embodiment, an apparatus may store at least one subject token associated with a user and a device, at least one resource token associated with the resource, and at least one network token associated with a network. The apparatus may determine various access values associated with these stored tokens. The apparatus may then determine the value of a first access value based on the values of these various access values. The apparatus may determine that the value of the first access value is insufficient to grant access to the resource and determine that access by at least one of the user and the device to the resource over the network should be denied. |
| US08726339B2 |
Method and apparatus for emergency session validation
According to one embodiment, an apparatus may store a plurality of token-based rules. A token-based rule facilitates access to a resource. The apparatus may further store a plurality of tokens. The plurality of tokens may include a session token. The session token may be associated with access to the resource by a user. The apparatus may receive a first token indicating that an emergency has been declared. The emergency may be associated with the user. The apparatus may determine, based at least in part upon at least one token-based rule from the plurality of token-based rules, that access to the resource should be terminated in response to receiving the first token and terminate the session token in response to the determination that access to the resource should be terminated. |
| US08726331B2 |
System and method for the broadcast dissemination of time-ordered data
A stream of time-ordered data, such as a movie, is divided into multiple fragments of equal length, which are repetitively transmitted at different respective repetition rates. The fragments are reordered for transmission so that those which occur near the beginning of the original data stream are transmitted more frequently than those which occur later in the data stream. When a user enters a request to utilize the data, the individual fragments are stored upon receipt at the user's premises, and reassembled into a contiguous stream. The ordering of the fragments is such that the wait time required before utilization of the data can begin is limited to a predetermined maximum, and at least one copy of every fragment becomes available by the time it is needed. |
| US08726330B2 |
Intelligent digital audiovisual playback system
Payment-based audiovisual playback system characterized by comprising a microprocessor device associated with a payment device primarily including means for storing, inter alia, in digital format the visual and sound information to be used. The system is associated through interfaces with display means and sound playback means for providing a multimedia environment. The system is controlled by a multitask operating system including a tool and service library integrated into the storage means. The system, which is also associated through an interface with a telecommunications modem, is optionally connected to an audiovisual data distribution network by a telecommunications modem and telecommunications links, said telecommunications function also being controlled by said multitask operating system. |
| US08726324B2 |
Method for identifying image capture opportunities using a selected expert photo agent
An apparatus and method for identifying image capture opportunities. Expert photo agents (526) that process metadata extracted from a captured image are obtained (706) at a user-device (102). Metadata (214) characterizing visual content of a captured image is produced (310) by processing the visual content of the captured image. Image capture opportunities are selected (410) based upon processing of the metadata with the at least one expert photo agent. The image capture opportunity selection specifies content to capture in a subsequent image. |
| US08726323B2 |
System and method for presenting support services
A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, system having a controller to receive from a set-top box (STB) a request for assistance, identify a subscriber account associated with the STB, identify from the subscriber account a subscription grade, select one of a plurality of subscriber support services according to the subscriber grade, and establish communications between the STB and the selected subscriber support service. Other embodiments are disclosed. |
| US08726321B2 |
Method and apparatus for video on demand asset management
A master scheduler system and method automatically operate and/or coordinate operation of a plurality of relatively independent systems, including manual systems, to function as an NVOD system to provide automating diverse operations for supporting and maintaining an NVOD system. The master scheduler system and method may also be applied to automate manual processes of analog-based and digital broadcast based service. The master scheduler receives, processes, and disseminates NVOD schedule-related information for end-to-end NVOD service; that is, sending video from a back-end which stores video data to a head-end for viewing by a user. The master scheduler also provides operations support for the NVOD system, such as maintaining the head-end configuration, allocating channels, performing asset management, performing content management, etc. The master scheduler provides validation of scheduling information by comparing information such as programmed schedules, asset metadata, and data obtained by measuring asset parameters, for example duration. |
| US08726317B2 |
Optical-to-millimeter wave conversion
A method of converting a modulated optical signal to an encoded electrical signal is provided. The method utilizes a device comprising an electrooptic sideband generator, an optical filter, and an optical/electrical converter. Initially, the modulated optical signal, which carries encoded optical data, is directed to an optical input of the electrooptic sideband generator. The electrooptic sideband generator is driven to generate frequency sidebands about a carrier frequency of the input optical signal. The optical filter is utilized to discriminate between the frequency sidebands and the carrier frequency and combine sidebands-of-interest to yield at least one frequency-converted optical signal comprising a millimeter wave modulation frequency. The frequency converted optical signal carries the encoded optical data and the modulation frequency is a function of the spacing of the sidebands-of-interest. The frequency-converted optical signal is directed to the optical/electrical converter where it is converted to an encoded electrical signal. Additional embodiments are disclosed and claimed. |
| US08726315B2 |
Method and server side and terminal for finding interactive electric service guide
A method and a service side and a terminal for finding an interactive electronic service guide. Said method comprises: the server side down-issuing the information corresponding to the finding interactive ESG service to the terminal through the broadcast channel, and the terminal acquires the information for finding the interactive ESG service in the broadcast channel. Said server side comprises a sending module of the related information for finding interactive ESG service and a down-issue module for the ESG supplier list. The terminal comprises a receiving module of the related information for finding the interactive ESG service and a receiving module for the ESG supplier list. |
| US08726314B2 |
System and method for extending recording time for a digital video record (DVR)
A system and method for extending recording time over an allocated time slot for a A/V recording device including receiving, at a programming content server, a request for one or more programs and transmitting, via the programming content server, the request for one or more programs to at least one of a linear content system and a digital content system. Also, the system and method may include receiving, at the programming content server, the one or more requested programs from at least one of the linear content system and the digital content system; and transmitting, via the programming content server, one or more programming content identification messages to a set-top box in the event that the one or more requested programs extend over an allocated time slot. |
| US08726309B2 |
Methods and apparatus for presenting substitute content in an audio/video stream using text data
Various embodiments of apparatus and/or methods are described for skipping, filtering and/or replacing content from an audio/video stream using text data associated with the audio/video stream. The text data is processed using location information that references a segment of the text data of the first audio/video stream to identify a location within the first audio/video stream. The location within the first audio/video stream is utilized to identify portions of the audio/video stream that are to be skipped during presentation. The portions of the audio/video stream that are to be skipped are filtered from the audio/video stream, and some of the skipped portions of the audio/video stream are replaced with substitute content. The filtered video stream, including the substitute content, is outputted for presentation to a user. |
| US08726306B2 |
Device-specific pre-provisoining access-limiting for a modem and a consumer premise equipment device
A method of initializing, provisioning, and managing a cable modem and a customer premise equipment device includes, prior to receiving the configuration file for the cable modem, providing an equipment identification message containing a description of the customer premise equipment device connected to the cable modem. In the case where the cable modem has yet to be provisioned, the configuration file received from the network server is a particular access-limiting configuration file that is selected from a group of access-limiting configuration files. The selection of the particular access-limiting configuration file is based on the description of the customer premise equipment device in the equipment identification message. This allows different devices to have different network restrictions or different walled gardens. |
| US08726303B2 |
Microchips with an internal hardware firewall that by its location leaves unprotected microprocessors or processing units which performs processing with a network
A microchip comprising an internal hardware firewall located between a protected portion of the microchip that is protected by the internal hardware firewall and a network portion that is configured to connect to a network of computers. The internal hardware firewall is configured to deny access to the protected portion from the network. The microchip may also include one or more of a network communications, graphics, video, sound, hard drive, optical disk drive and flash memory component in the network portion and one or many microprocessors that are not network communications components and are in the network portion and are separate from the internal hardware firewall. The location of the internal hardware firewall permits unrestricted access by the network to the network portion so that processing operations other than network communications and firewall operations conducted by the microchip with the network are executed by the microprocessors in the network portion. |
| US08726302B2 |
Spindle motor
A spindle motor is disclosed, characterized by: a rotation shaft rotated by a stator and a rotor; a turn table rotated by the rotation shaft and accommodated by an optical disk; and a center cone moved along an axial direction of the rotation shaft for being brought into contact with an inner periphery of the optical disk to align a rotation center of the optical disk with a rotation center of the rotation shaft, wherein the center cone contacting the inner periphery of the optical disk is formed with a rise prevention unit configured to reduce a contact area with the inner periphery of the optical disk and to tightly contact the optical disk to the turn table. |
| US08726299B1 |
Image-oriented, plugin-based API to storage server appliances
A system and method for managing data storage. A computer system comprises a data storage application and an API. The API presents a logical storage model to the data storage application for storing data on one or more storage appliances and accepts first and second plugins coupling first and second storage appliances, respectively, to the API. The first and second storage appliances store data according to different physical storage models. The API receives an access request from the data storage application targeting a portion of the logical storage model. In response to the access request, the API identifies a plugin and a corresponding storage appliance associated with the portion of the logical storage model and utilizes the identified plugin to map the portion of the logical storage model to a corresponding portion of the selected storage appliance's physical storage model. |
| US08726295B2 |
Network on chip with an I/O accelerator
Data processing on a network on chip (‘NOC’) that includes IP blocks, routers, memory communications controllers, and network interface controllers; each IP block adapted to a router through a memory communications controller and a network interface controller; each memory communications controller controlling communication between an IP block and memory; each network interface controller controlling inter-IP block communications through routers; each IP block adapted to the network by a low latency, high bandwidth application messaging interconnect comprising an inbox and an outbox; a computer software application segmented into stages, each stage comprising a flexibly configurable module of computer program instructions identified by a stage ID with each stage executing on a thread of execution on an IP block; and at least one of the IP blocks comprising an input/output (‘I/O’) accelerator that administers at least some data communications traffic to and from the at least one IP block. |
| US08726294B2 |
Cross-environment communication using application space API
A mobile computing device with a mobile operating system and desktop operating system running concurrently and independently on a shared kernel without virtualization. The mobile operating system provides a mobile user experience while the desktop operating system provides a full desktop user experience when the mobile computing device is docked to a secondary terminal environment. Applications of the desktop operating system communicate with applications and services of the mobile operating system through a cross-environment communication framework. The cross-environment communication framework may include application programming interfaces through which categories of applications can communicate across a multiple operating system computing environment through category-specific remote communication calls. The mobile computing device may be a smartphone running the Android mobile operating system and a full desktop Linux distribution on a modified Android kernel. |
| US08726285B2 |
Method and apparatus for triggering workflow deployment and/or execution
A system and method for triggering deployment of a workflow are provided. The method includes issuing, to a first device (e.g., a server) from application software executing on a second device (e.g., a client computer), an instruction to execute a workflow previously deployed at the first device. The workflow is formed as a function of information associated with a graphical representation of the workflow. The application software may be, for example, software for one or more word-processing, spreadsheet, database, email, instant messenger, presentation, browser, calendar, organizer, media, image-display applications; file management programs and/or operating system shells. Alternatively, the application software may be or include a module associated with such application software. This module may include or be formed as or from one or more plug-ins, add-ons, applets, shared libraries, and/or extensions. |
| US08726284B2 |
Managing requests based on request groups
A request management component receives requests to perform an operation. Each of the requests is assigned, based on one or more criteria, to one of multiple different request groups. Based at least in part on execution policies associated with the request groups, determinations are made as to when to submit the requests to one or more recipient. Each of the multiple requests is submitted to one of the recipients when it is determined that the request is to be submitted. |
| US08726283B1 |
Deadlock avoidance skid buffer
Under some conditions, requests transmitted between different devices in a computing system may be blocked in a way that prevents the request from being processed, resulting in a deadlock condition. A skid buffer is used to allow additional requests to be queued in order to remove the blockage and end the deadlock condition. Once the deadlock condition is removed, the requests are processed and the additional buffer entries in the skid buffer are disabled. |
| US08726280B2 |
Method and system for autonomic application program spawning in a computing environment
A method and system for self-managing an application program in a computing environment, is provided. One implementation involves spawning a primary application for execution in the computing environment; the primary application monitoring status of the primary application and the computing environment resources while executing; and upon detecting a first status threshold, the primary application spawning a secondary application in the computing environment, wherein the secondary application comprises a lower functionality version of the primary application, and the primary application terminating. |
| US08726279B2 |
System for multi threaded multi processor sharing of asynchronous hardware units
Methods and system for sharing a hardware resource in a computer system running at least one software process having multiple threads. A lock_indicator is provided in data structures within the computer system. A request is received to use the hardware resource by one of the threads that is defined to be a requesting tread. Based on the lock_indicator, it is determined whether the hardware resource is available for use by the requesting thread. If this indicates that the hardware resource is available, the lock_indicator is set under control of the hardware resource to instead indicate that the hardware resource is unavailable, and a go_indicator signals to indicate that use of the hardware resource for the request can now proceed. |
| US08726278B1 |
Methods and system for registering callbacks and distributing tasks to technical computing works
A method and system is disclosed for providing a distributed technical computing environment for distributing technical computing tasks from a technical computing client to technical computing workers for execution of the tasks on one or more computers systems. Tasks can be defined on a technical computing client, and the tasks organized into jobs. The technical computing client can directly distribute tasks to one or more technical computing workers. Furthermore, the technical computing client can submit tasks, or jobs comprising tasks, to an automatic task distribution mechanism that distributes the tasks automatically to one or more technical computing workers providing technical computing services. The technical computing worker performs technical computing of tasks and the results of the execution of tasks may be provided to the technical computing client. |
| US08726272B2 |
Extensibility for business accelerator authoring tools
Embodiments of the present invention provide for updating an application such as an authoring tool for defining one or more customized configurations of a software package. According to one embodiment, a base package including the application and information defining a base configuration for the application can be received and installed. Instructions to create a custom configuration of the application can be received and information defining the custom configuration can be saved separate from the application and the base configuration. An update package including an update to the authoring tool can be received and installed. The information defining the custom configuration can be read and compared to the update to the authoring tool to determine whether the update affects the custom configuration. If the update to the authoring tool affects the custom configuration, elements of the custom configuration that are found to be affected can be reported. |
| US08726268B2 |
Computer-readable medium, information processing apparatus, display control method
A computer-readable medium causes an information processing apparatus capable of performing a plurality of setting processing for making a setting in accordance with a predetermined sequence to perform processing including a first display control process including displaying a corresponding setting image for each of the plurality of setting processing, an information acceptance process including accepting information required to perform the setting processing through the displayed setting image, a shift command acceptance process including accepting a shift command for making a shift toward another setting processing from setting processing corresponding to the setting image displayed in the first display control process, and a second display control process including displaying an input completion image showing information accepted in the information acceptance process in addition to the setting image corresponding to the setting processing to be shifted by the shift command when the shift command is accepted in the shift command acceptance process. |
| US08726262B2 |
Firmware update system and information apparatus, and program
The present invention provides a firmware update process capable of realizing both recovery from an interruption of update and saving of a capacity of nonvolatile memory used for backup and storing difference data. Thus, intermediate data is included for always holding a status of firmware in rewriting in addition to the new and old firmware. In a case of updating all blocks configuring the firmware in an arbitrary order, the process successively compares blocks of the intermediate data and new firmware with each other; calculates an address of data for recovery from an interruption of update and a backup capacity required therefor; extracts difference data to be distributed, calculates a capacity thereof and creates an update procedure; and derives a processing order whose total of the backup capacity and the difference data capacity is the minimum (see FIG. 2). |
| US08726261B2 |
Zero downtime hard disk firmware update
An embodiment includes determining which disks need an update, then copying user data from a disk to be updated to a spare disk. New data is written to both the disk to be updated and the spare disk, and a zone map is maintained for all volumes of the disk to be updated. The firmware on the disk is updated, and changed data is copied from the spare disk to the newly updated disk based on the zone map. New data is written to both the newly updated disk and the spare disk. Once the changed data has been copied to the newly updated disk, data is written to the newly updated disk. |
| US08726260B2 |
Techniques for providing software patches to a computer system
A technique for providing a software patch to an associated computer system includes receiving, at a wireless communication device, a communication. Next, it is determined, at the wireless communication device, whether the communication is associated with a software patch available for the associated computer system. When the communication is associated with the software patch, a notification is sent from the wireless communication device to the associated computer system that the software patch is available. |
| US08726256B2 |
Unrolling quantifications to control in-degree and/or out-degree of automaton
Apparatus, systems, and methods for a compiler are disclosed. One such compiler parses a human readable expression into a syntax tree and converts the syntax tree into an automaton having in-transitions and out-transitions. Converting can include unrolling the quantification as a function of in-degree limitations wherein in-degree limitations includes a limit on the number of transitions into a state of the automaton. The compiler can also convert the automaton into an image for programming a parallel machine, and publishes the image. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed. |
| US08726254B2 |
Embedded annotation and program analysis
Program source code is annotated to support dataflow analysis or other program analysis, without requiring changes to compilers. Annotation statements are embedded inside comments or other non-code-generative portions of the source code. The annotations can be used to express contracts at routine boundaries, allowing an analyzer to check the global correctness of the source code through modular (local) analysis, with performance that is linear in the number of routines. In particular, annotated SQL source code may be analyzed to identify SQL injection vulnerabilities. |
| US08726248B2 |
Method and apparatus for enregistering memory locations
One embodiment of the present invention provides a system that improves program performance by enregistering memory locations. During operation, the system receives program object code which has been generated to use a specified number of registers that are available for a given target hardware implementation. Next, the system translates this object code to execute on a second hardware implementation which includes more registers than the first hardware implementation. The system uses these additional registers to improve the performance of the translated object code for the second hardware implementation. More specifically, the system identifies a memory access in the object code, and then rewrites an instruction associated with this memory access to access an available register instead of the original target memory location. To preserve program semantics, the system subsequently moderates accesses to the memory location to ensure that no threads access a stale value in the enregistered memory location. |
| US08726245B2 |
Static analysis of computer software applications having a model-view-controller architecture
Preparing a computer software application for static analysis by identifying a control flow within a model portion of a computer software application having a model-view-controller architecture, where the control flow passes a value to a controller portion of the computer software application, analyzing a declarative specification of the controller portion of the computer software application to identify a view to which the controller portion passes control based on the value, and synthesizing a method within the computer software application, where the method calls the view. |
| US08726243B2 |
Method and system for automatically testing performance of applications run in a distributed processing structure and corresponding computer program product
Performance of applications run on a distributed processing structure including a grid of processing units is automatically tested by: running at least one application on the distributed processing structure; loading the application with processing workload to thereby produce processing workload on the distributed processing structure; sensing the operating status of the processing units in the distributed processing structure under the processing workload and producing information signals indicative of such operating status; collecting these information signals; providing a rule engine and selectively modifying, as a function of the rules in the rule engine and the information signals collected, at least one of: the processing workload on the application, and the operating status of the processing units in the grid. |
| US08726238B2 |
Interactive iterative program parallelization based on dynamic feedback
Interactive iterative program parallelization based on dynamic feedback program parallelization, in one aspect, may identify a ranked list of one or more candidate pieces of code each with one or more source refactorings that can be applied to parallelize the code, apply at least one of the one or more refactorings to create a revised code, and determine performance data associated with the revised code. The performance data may be used to make decisions on identifying next possible ranked list of refactorings. |
| US08726236B2 |
Determining context specific content
In one illustrative embodiment, a computer-implemented method for identifying program components, generates, by a processor unit, associations between the program components stored in a computer usable storage medium to create a first set of relationships, and assigns, by the processor unit, a probability to each relationship in the first set of relationships to create a second set of relationships, wherein the probability indicates a strength of the associations between the program components. |
| US08726230B1 |
Generating a user interface for sending data among resources
A method performed by one or more processing devices includes receiving a request to generate a computer program; generating, in response to receiving the request, a first user interface that when rendered on a display device renders: one or more first visual representations of one or more first fields of the first resource; and one or more second visual representations of one or more second fields of the second resource; receiving, through the first user interface, a selection of: at least one of the one or more first visual representations; and at least one of the one or more second visual representations; receiving, through a second user interface, data specifying the one or more operations; and updating, based on the received data, the computer program with one or more third instructions to perform the one or more operations. |
| US08726226B2 |
Integrated work lists for engineering project change management
A tool supports management of engineering project changes using a current design diagram with links to implementation components, a proposed design diagram, and a work list of tasks for transforming the current design into the proposed design. Tasks recite intended changes such as add, remove, or refactor, with reference to implementation components to be changed, and tracking information. Work list tasks may be automatically generated based on design model differences correlated with project code, automatically generated based on tracked user design actions correlated with project code, and/or manually generated by users. Work lists may be exported. Users can mark a relationship for removal and view a corresponding updated work list. Users can trace impact of a work list on project context such as testing coverage, database structures, and user scenarios. |
| US08726222B1 |
Method and system for routing optimally between terminals through intermediate vias in a circuit design
A system and method are provided for establishing an automated routing environment in an electronic design automation (EDA) work flow for the routing of a circuit design. A user may merely specify a flow via pattern, a flow via location, and a start and end terminal and thereby, the auto router or path finder will automatically find the least-cost paths between each of the start terminals through at least one intermediate via of the flow via and ending at an end terminal. Upon successful routing of all needed terminals, an at least partially routed circuit design may be output. |
| US08726219B2 |
Analysis of digital circuits with time division multiplexing
Methods and apparatuses to design and analyze digital circuits with time division multiplexing. In one embodiment, the method for designing a digital circuit comprises determining signal timing for a portion of the digital circuit, and automatically replacing nets for a plurality of connections in the digital circuit with a Time Division Multiplexing (TDM) channel in response to a determining of routing congestion. |
| US08726217B2 |
Methods for analyzing cells of a cell library
Methods and systems are provided for analyzing cells of a cell library used to generate a layout. One exemplary method involves determining a routed connection location utilized in the layout for a pin of the cell for each instance of the cell in the layout. The method continues by determining a utilization metric for the pin of the cell based on the plurality of routed connection locations and a plurality of possible connection locations for the pin, and displaying the utilization metric on a display device. |
| US08726213B2 |
Method and apparatus for decomposing functions in a configurable IC
Some embodiments of the invention provide a configurable integrated circuit (“IC”). The configurable IC includes a set of multiplexers that each has a set of input terminals, a set of output terminals, and a set of select terminals. The set of multiplexers includes a group of multiplexers, where at least one input terminal of each multiplexer in the group is a permanently inverting input terminal. During at least a set of cycles during the operation of the configurable IC, several multiplexers in the group of multiplexers are used to implement a particular function. |
| US08726210B2 |
Optimizing timing critical paths by modulating systemic process variation
Systems and methods are provided to optimize critical paths by modulating systemic process variations, such as regional timing variations in IC designs. A method includes determining a physical location of an element in the semiconductor chip design within the critical path. The method further includes modulating a systemic process variation of the semiconductor chip design to speed up the critical path based on a polysilicon conductor perimeter density associated with the element. |
| US08726209B1 |
Method and system for automatically establishing a component description format (CDF) debugging environment
A system and method are provided for establishing a debugging environment in an Electronic Design Automation work-flow. A user-interface is provided for interfacing with users by displaying a list of debuggable parameters, accepting a selection thereof, and automatically locating both the callback function which sets the selected parameter, and the source code file which contains the callback function. Additionally, it is determined whether the callback function sets solely the selected parameter, or several different parameters, and an automatic breakpoint is set accordingly to break only responsive to the selected parameter. On execution of the modified callback function, execution will be arrested by the automatically-set intelligent breakpoint and a debugging user-interface will be generated for the user to display the relevant source code, callback function, parameter names and values, system state, and the like. Upon completion of the debugging process, the automatically-set breakpoint will be removed. |
| US08726207B2 |
On-the-fly device characterization from layouts of circuits
A design system includes a layout module and a user interface. The layout module includes a computing unit, which is configured to extract layout parameters of an integrated circuit device in a circuit during a layout stage of the circuit, and calculate circuit parameters of the device using the layout parameters. The user interface is configured to display the circuit parameters of the device in response to a user selection of the device. |
| US08726202B2 |
Mitigation of mask defects by pattern shifting
An image of a mask pattern is overlaid on an image of a mask blank annotated with the center location and dimensions of each measured mask defect. Design clips centered at the measured defects are generated with lateral dimensions less than allowable movement of the mask pattern over the mask blank. Each design clip is converted into a binary image including pixels corresponding to defect-activating regions and pixels corresponding to defect-hiding regions. Each pixel region representing the defect-activating region is expanded by laterally biasing peripheries by one half of the lateral extent of the defect located within the corresponding design clip. Biased design clips are logically compiled pixel by pixel to determine an optimal pattern shift vector representing the amount of pattern shift. |
| US08726192B2 |
Computer-readable storage medium having activation control program stored therein and activation control apparatus
A system is disclosed including: a first display control section 218 for selectively displaying, in a first display area, a second predetermined number of first objects among first objects, corresponding to a first predetermined number of game programs, for which an order is set; a second display control section 219 for displaying a position designation image at a position corresponding to a position, of subject software, in an order set for the first predetermined number of pieces of software; a display change section 217 for designating a first object to be displayed in the first display area, based on an operation input received by using the position designation image; and an activation execution section 220 for activating software corresponding to one first object which is selected from among the second predetermined number of first objects displayed in the first display area, based on the operation input. |
| US08726191B2 |
Ephemeral object selections and fast-path gesturing for device control
A device may be controlled by: detecting a first user input associated with an element of a graphical user interface associated with at least one controllable device; detecting at least one second user input; and transmitting at least one device control signal to the at least one controllable device associated with the element of the graphical user interface when the first user input and the second user input are at least partially contemporaneous. |
| US08726190B2 |
Automatically transformed graphical user interface
Automatically transformed graphical user interface techniques and implementations are described, including displaying a graphical user interface in a first position, the graphical user interface having a composition having an interface element, detecting an input to change the composition, and transforming the graphical user interface in response to the input comprising adjusting at least one edge of the graphical user interface and orienting the graphical user interface to a second position relative to a point in a display. |
| US08726187B2 |
Building macro elements for production automation control
A macro element template is replicated to build a macro element library. A macro element is associated with executable instructions for controlling a plurality of production devices to produce a special effect or segment of a media production. One or more automation control objects are positioned onto a control interface to build a macro element template. Build information is associated with each automation control object to assign a variable name, device type, property page field(s), and variable naming table. A replicator control interface allows a range of sources to be assigned to the macro element template, and is associated with executable instructions for building the macro element library. The macro element library includes user-defined filenames that enables a director to quickly search and select a desired macro element. Changes in production values ripple throughout the macro element library to dynamically update the macro elements. |
| US08726184B2 |
Systems, apparatus and methods for a messaging system
An embodiment relates generally to a method of messaging. The method includes providing a message activation widget on a lock dialog box of a screen saver application and activating the message activation widget. The method also includes displaying a message user interface configured to accept a message and displaying a screen saver image in response to saving an entered message in the message user interface. |
| US08726179B2 |
Method and system for providing in-line scheduling in an on-demand service
In accordance with embodiments, there are provided mechanisms and methods for providing in-line scheduling in an on-demand service in a database system. These mechanisms and methods for providing in-line scheduling can enable embodiments to provide a multi-tenant database that stores client scheduling information, client customer contact information, and enables drag and drop event scheduling. In a multi-tenant database, a system for managing client customer contact information and event scheduling is established, which may be useful for a tenant that is a salesperson or that employs salespersons. The multi-tenant database may include a combined view application that provides for the simultaneous display of a calendar view and list view of contact information. The multi-tenant database may further include drag and drop functionality, allowing list view information to be dragged and dropped onto the calendar view for event scheduling. The ability of embodiments to provide drag and drop inline event scheduling can enable efficient calendaring of events by rapidly transferring relevant information onto a calendar. |
| US08726176B2 |
Active business client
Methods and apparatuses enable generation of and consumption of business context data. A server generates business context data that describes a resource, a view, and actionable context data related to a business scenario. The business context data is not specific to any particular UI capability of the client device, and may include tittle or no UI information. The server transmits the business context data to a client device that has an active client. The active client identifies one or more UI capabilities of the client device and generates a UI component based on the business scenario and the UI capabilities. The UI component enables functionality in the client device related to execution of the actionable context data. In one embodiment, the active client enables predictive deployment of services on the client device based on an understanding of the business scenario. |
| US08726175B2 |
User interface generation apparatus
A user interface generation apparatus is provided with a user interface generation unit for generating a user interface, a display unit for displaying the user interface generated by the user interface generation unit, and a memory unit for storing a definition file including object definition information which defines an object, which is a component of the user interface. If being instructed to generate a plurality of user interfaces, the user interface generation unit makes a selection from object definition information included in the definition file stored in the memory unit and executes processing to generate a compound user interface based on the object definition information selected. |
| US08726170B2 |
Delivery of contextual information
A communication is initiated between a first user and a second user via a collaboration channel. Thereafter, an identification of the second user relating to the collaboration channel is associated with a business entity (also referred to sometimes as a business partner). A service is automatically initiated that retrieves contextual information associated with the business entity in response to the initiation of the communication. A scope of the retrieved contextual information is based on a business partner type for the business entity. Subsequently, the first user is presented with at least a portion of the retrieved contextual information concurrently with the communication between the first user and the second user via the collaboration channel. Related apparatus, systems, techniques and articles are also described. |
| US08726166B2 |
System and method for a remote console preview of a server
A device and a method for a remote console preview of a remote server are disclosed. A preview image corresponding to a remote console image of the remote server is displayed. The preview image is updated at a predetermined time interval. A first selection of the preview image is received, and a remote console session of the remote server is initiated in response to receiving the first selection of the preview image. |
| US08726165B1 |
Methods for auto-completing contact entry on mobile devices
Methods for implementing an auto-complete feature for contact entry on mobile devices are described. In some embodiments, a mobile device downloads from a server a number of contacts associated with a user, wherein the number of contacts is a subset of contacts in a contact list of the user. Upon receiving a partial contact entry from the user that includes a string of one or more characters, the mobile device identifies contacts from the downloaded contacts matching the partial entry. The mobile device displays no more than a preset number of matching contacts on the display of the mobile device at any one time, in a particular order, with an option for the user to display and fetch for more matching contacts. Other embodiments are also described. |
| US08726158B2 |
User interface generation apparatus
A user interface generation apparatus is provided, the apparatus being capable of switching over between a compound user interface and a stand-alone user interface by simple operations. When an input unit receives a second input while a control unit controls to display a compound user interface object group, the control unit controls to display a stand-alone user interface object group of a user interface displayed correspondingly to a reception position of the second input in the compound user interface object group. |
| US08726157B2 |
Digital living network alliance (DLNA) client device with thumbnail creation
An item of audio and video (A/V) content is identified stored in association with a DLNA server that does not have a thumbnail image associated with it. The item of A/V content is streamed at a DLNA client device. Intra-coded frames (I-Frames) are selected from the streamed A/V content. The selected I-Frames are presented to a user of the DLNA client device. A selection is received from the user identifying one of the selected I-Frames. The identified I-Frame is stored in association with the item of A/V content. This abstract is not to be considered limiting, since other embodiments may deviate from the features described in this abstract. |
| US08726151B2 |
Comparing encrypted documents having structured data
The present disclosure is directed to comparing a first structured data document to a second structured data document, including receiving the first and second structured data documents as first and second encrypted documents, respectively, comparing nodes of the first encrypted document to nodes of the second encrypted document, a content and a location of each of the nodes remaining confidential during the comparing, generating matched pairs of nodes based on the comparing, and storing the matched pairs in computer memory, each matched pair comprising a node of the first encrypted document and a corresponding node of the second encrypted document, determining one or more edit operations based on the matched pairs, and generating an edit script comprising the one or more edit operations, the edit script being executable to transform the first encrypted document to provide a transformed encrypted document that is isomorphic to the second encrypted document. |
| US08726150B2 |
Web page distribution system
Provided is a web page distribution system capable of distributing web pages that satisfy the output condition of a distribution target. The web page distribution system comprises a plurality of mobile phones and a web page distribution server. The mobile phones can communicate with Internet and have individually set output conditions for outputting all web pages including text data and image data referred to from the text data. The web page distribution server specifies, based on the reception of the distribution request for the web pages, the output conditions of the mobile phones and determines whether the web pages satisfy the specified output conditions or not. When it is determined that the output conditions are not satisfied, the web page distribution server converts the web pages that do not satisfy the output conditions into the ones that satisfy the output conditions and performs a process for distributing the web pages. |
| US08726144B2 |
Interactive learning-based document annotation
A document annotation system includes a graphical user interface used by an annotator to annotate documents. An active learning component trains an annotation model and proposes annotations to documents based on the annotation model. A request handler conveys annotation requests from the graphical user interface to the active learning component, conveys proposed annotations from the active learning component to the graphical user interface, and selectably conveys evaluation requests from the graphical user interface to a domain expert. During annotation, at least some low probability proposed annotations are presented to the annotator by the graphical user interface. The presented low probability proposed annotations enhance training of the annotation model by the active learning component. |
| US08726142B2 |
Selecting social networking system user information for display via a timeline interface
The invention provides a display interface in a social networking system that enables the presentation of information related to a user in a timeline or map view. The system accesses information about a user of a social networking system, including both data about the user and social network activities related to the user. The system then selects one or more of these pieces of data and/or activities from a certain time period and gathers them into timeline units based on their relatedness and their relevance to users. These timeline units are ranked by relevance to the user, and are used to generate a timeline or map view for the user containing visual representations of the timeline units organized by location or time. The timeline or map view is then provided to other users of the social networking system that wish to view information about the user. |
| US08726138B2 |
Methods and systems for modified maximum-likelihood based TBCC decoding
A method and apparatus for decoding of tailbiting convolutional codes (TBCC) are disclosed. The proposed modified maximum-likelihood TBCC decoding technique preserves error correction performance of optimal maximum-likelihood based TBCC decoding, while the computational complexity is substantially decreased since a reduced number of decoding states has been evaluated. Compare to other sub-optimal TBCC decoding algorithms, modified maximum-likelihood TBCC decoding achieves improved packet error rate performance with similar computational complexity. |
| US08726136B2 |
Systems, methods, apparatus and computer program products for highly reliable file delivery using compound and braided FEC encoding and decoding
Systems, methods, apparatus and computer program products provide highly reliable file delivery using a combination of packet-level FEC on source data packets which are arranged in matrices, where encoding is performed on both rows and columns or on rows, columns and diagonals. |
| US08726123B2 |
Bit error correction for removing age related errors in a bit pattern
A bit error corrector includes an aging bit pattern memory operable to store at least one aging bit pattern which conveys aging-related effects within a succession of uncorrected bit patterns, a bit pattern modifier operable to modify a current, uncorrected bit pattern using the at least one aging bit pattern and generate a modified bit pattern, and a bit pattern comparator operable to compare the current uncorrected bit pattern with a corrected bit pattern which is based on the modified bit pattern and determine a corresponding comparative bit pattern. An aging bit pattern determiner is operable to recursively determine a new aging bit pattern based on the at least one aging bit pattern and the comparative bit pattern, and store the new aging bit pattern in the aging bit pattern memory for use during modification of a subsequent uncorrected bit pattern by the bit pattern modifier. |
| US08726120B2 |
Storing encoded data slices in a dispersed storage unit
A method begins with a processing module receiving an access request for the data object. The method continues by ascertaining that the data object is divided into a plurality of data segments and that plurality of data segments are dispersed storage error encoded to produce a plurality of sets of encoded data slices. The method continues by ascertaining batching of the plurality of sets of encoded data slices, wherein the plurality of sets of encoded data slices are arranged into a set of batched encoded data slices. The method continues by outputting a set of access requests for the set of batched encoded data slices to storage units of the DSN. |
| US08726119B2 |
Fast stochastic decode method for low density parity check code
Provided is a fast stochastic decoding method for a low density parity check (LDPC) code. The decoding method may include decoding the LDPC code based on an LDPC decoding scheme, using a message expressed by a log-likelihood ratio (LLR) value. |
| US08726115B2 |
Uplink H-ARQ signalling mechanism in a wireless communication system
A method in a wireless communication system that includes a user equipment, an anchor network station and at least one assisting network station, where the user equipment transmits the same data to the network stations and the network stations each transmit an acknowledgement of the data to the user equipment in response. The at least one assisting network station also forwards the data to the anchor network station. |
| US08726112B2 |
Scan test application through high-speed serial input/outputs
Methods and devices for using high-speed serial links for scan testing are disclosed. The methods can work with any scheme of scan data compression or with uncompressed scan testing. The protocol and hardware to support high speed data transfer reside on both the tester and the device under test. Control data may be transferred along with scan data or be partially generated on chip. Clock signals for testing may be generated on chip as well. In various implementations, the SerDes (Serializer/Deserializer) may be shared with other applications. The Aurora Protocol may be used to transport industry standard protocols. To compensate for effects of asynchronous operation of a conventional high-speed serial link, buffers may be used. The high-speed serial interface may use a data conversion block to drive test cores. |
| US08726098B2 |
Diagnostic method, diagnostic code generation system, and program for the same
The operator terminal 150 receives input in relation to a setting status check item being a setting item desired to be checked in the diagnostic code generation terminal, and generates a status check code, so that the status check code indicates the setting status check item received in the input. Then, the diagnostic code generation terminal 10 acquires the setting status of the diagnostic code generation terminal 10 in response to receiving the input of the status check code, the setting status corresponding to the setting status check item, and generates a diagnostic code indicating the setting status based on the acquired setting status. Then, the setting status of the diagnostic code generation terminal 10 is reproduced by inputting the diagnostic code to an operator terminal 150. |
| US08726096B2 |
Controller and control method for a controller
A controller and a control method for a controller can simplify application development and can improve the performance of device control processes. When a request is received from an application 1 and the received process request is an initialization request, whether or not the received request is the first initialization request received after the application 1 started running is determined. If the received initialization request is the first initialization request, the request is passed to the device driver 3 and initialization settings information describing the configuration of the device driver 3 after the initialization process ends is stored. If an error has occurred in the device driver 3 when the device driver 3 status is detected, an error handling process is executed according to the device driver 3 state. When the device driver 3 has recovered, a request for setting the device driver 3 state to the state based on the initialization settings information is asserted. |
| US08726094B2 |
Communication monitoring apparatus, communication monitoring method, and storage medium storing communication monitoring program
A communication monitoring apparatus that is capable of preventing determination of communication error due to communication shutdown accompanying the communication speed change so as not to inspire a user with unnecessary uneasiness. The communication monitoring apparatus monitors a connecting condition of communication between a terminal that can change a communication speed and a host apparatus through a network. A check unit periodically checks whether the connecting condition of communication between the terminal and the host apparatus through the network is normal or abnormal at first set time, and determines that a communication error occurs when the checked result shows abnormal connecting condition. A control unit detects a communication speed change in the terminal, and stops the check by the check unit before the communication speed change concerned. |
| US08726092B1 |
Identifying causes of application crashes
The subject matter of this specification can be implemented in, among other things, a computer-implemented method for identifying causes of application crashes. The method includes receiving crash reports from multiple computing devices resulting from a problem that occurs in an application in operation at the computing devices. The crash reports include sets of properties that describe system states of the computing devices where the problem occurred. The method further includes identifying similarities between one or more properties in the sets of properties from the crash reports. The method further includes identifying differences between one or more properties in the sets of properties from the crash reports. The method further includes identifying one or more candidates for a cause of the problem in the application based on a clustering of the similarities and the differences. The method further includes generating a report that includes the one or more candidates. |
| US08726088B2 |
Method for processing booting errors
A method for processing booting errors for a computer having multiple voltage regulator downs (VRDs) includes reading a boot sequence including multiple power-on stages, and each power-on stage corresponds to a boot voltage and one of the VRDs; performing the power-on stages according to the boot sequence, and determining whether an output voltage of the VRD corresponding to each power-on stage is equal to the corresponding boot voltage; and when the output voltage of any one of the VRDs is not equal to the corresponding boot voltage, performing a debugging procedure. |
| US08726087B2 |
System and method for curing a read inability state in a memory device
A system and method for correcting a boot error is disclosed. The system comprises a solid-state nonvolatile memory device, the solid-state nonvolatile memory device storing a boot loader at a predetermined block having a first address on the solid-state nonvolatile memory device. The system further comprises a main controller that retrieves the boot loader from the predetermined block upon powering up. The system also includes a monitoring module configured to monitor an initial boot sequence of the main controller and to determine when the predetermined block has a read inability error. The main controller obtains a backup boot loader from a backup block when the monitoring module determines that the predetermined block is corrupted. |
| US08726085B2 |
Anomaly detection to implement security protection of a control system
An anomaly detection mechanism is provided that detects an anomaly in a control network, and includes an identifying unit to receive event information on an event that occurs, and to identify a group including a resource related to the event information by referring to a configuration management database for retaining dependence relationships between processes and resources including a control system; a policy storing unit to store one or more policies each of which associates one or more actions with a condition defining a situation suspected to have an anomaly; an adding unit to acquire group-related information needed for application to the one or more policies, and to add the acquired information to the event information; and a determining unit to apply the event information to the one or more policies and to determine the one or more actions associated with the matched condition as one or more actions to be taken. |
| US08726084B2 |
Methods and systems for distributed diagnostic reasoning
A method for distributed diagnostic reasoning is provided. The method includes establishing a computing node monitoring the operation of a component of a complex system and populating at least one of a processor and the memory of the computing node with one or more standardized executable application modules (SEAMs) and a workflow service. The method further includes creating a configuration file in combination with several SEAMS to create a distributed diagnostic reasoner (DDR) associated with the component. The method also comprises installing the configuration file in the computing node for execution by the processor; and initializing the one or more SEAMS, the configuration file and the workflow service, wherein the workflow service facilitates data flow between the one or more SEAMS and the static data associated with a fault condition resident in the configuration file. |
| US08726077B2 |
Method and system for partitioning data files for efficient processing
An approach is provided for fast processing of data files. A plurality of records are received from a source system. The records are validated against a predetermined data source. An error notification is generated based on the validation. The validated records are partitioned based on a unique parameter. The partitioned records are transformed according to a format specified by a target system. The transformed records are selectively corrected. |
| US08726076B2 |
Operator state checkpoint markers and rehydration
A checkpoint marker can be received at a first operator. The first operator can process the checkpoint marker by sending the checkpoint marker to a second operator and sending state checkpoint information representing a state of the first operator to a checkpoint writer. The checkpoint information can be used to rehydrate the state of one or more operators. For example, after a system failure, system shutdown, etc., checkpoint information can be received from a reader unit at a checkpoint information input queue of the first operator. A state of the first operator can be rehydrated using the checkpoint information. Processing of information in a data input queue of the first operator can be suspended while the checkpoint information is used to rehydrate the state of the first operator. Other operators in a system with the first operator (e.g., the second operator) may be checkpointed and rehydrated in the same manner as the first operator. |
| US08726074B2 |
Handling device and method for voltage faults
A handling device and method for voltage faults applicable for using in a computer system. The handling method includes acquiring a signal of voltage fault. According to the signal of voltage fault and by looking up at tables, an operating status of the computer system corresponding to the signal of voltage fault is acquired, and generating a control signal according to the operating status. Then, the computer system according to the control signal is restarted. |
| US08726073B2 |
Control apparatus and control method
A control apparatus controls a first and a second power supply units having a redundant configuration and converters connected to respective outputs of the power supply units. The power supply units generate a plurality of voltages and supply a storage device with the generated voltages through the respective converters. The control apparatus includes a determination unit for determining whether an abnormality occurs in a first voltage that the first power supply unit generates, upon the second power supply unit failing, and an instruction unit for instructing the converter connected to the first power supply unit to generate the first voltage on the basis of a second voltage that the first power supply unit generates, upon the abnormality occurring in the first voltage of the first power supply unit. |
| US08726067B1 |
Utilizing both application and storage networks for distributed storage over asynchronous distances
A system for responding to a failure in an active/active system is provided. It may be determined that a failure has occurred in connection with a first site and a second site. A winning site and a losing site may be determined from among the first site and the second site. It may be determined whether to perform at least one of: a push operation, a pull operation or both to obtain or identify data from the losing site in order to maintain I/O operations on the data at the winning site. A message may be sent to the losing site concerning the data. The message may depend on whether to perform the push operation, the pull operation or both. A response to the message may be received. |
| US08726066B1 |
Journal based replication with enhance failover
A method, system, and computer product for data replication comprising enabling a second site to receive I/O from a first site; wherein the second site stores the I/O in a journal until transferring the I/O to an image, regulating, at the first site, an application by delaying acknowledgements of I/O requests from the application, and controlling the size of a do stream in the journal by slowing a response of a splitter. |
| US08726065B2 |
Managing failover operations on a cluster of computers
Managing failover operations on a cluster of computers, including: identifying, by a failover hold module, a failure to access data storage in the cluster of computers; preventing the execution of all read operations directed to the data storage that were received after the failure to access data storage was identified; executing all write operations directed to the data storage that were received after the failure to access data storage was identified, including writing data to a cache; identifying that a failover to alternative data storage is complete; executing the held read operations, including reading data from the alternative data storage; and copying, from cache to the alternative data storage, the data written to the cache as part of the write operations. |
| US08726062B2 |
Data recovery architecture (CDR) for low-voltage differential signaling (LVDS) video transceiver applications
The present invention discloses data recovery architecture (CDR) to improve a multi-link system's tolerance to delay mismatches (or skewing effect) in its different links. The architecture is entirely digital and usable in any multi-link transceiver implementation that makes use of a separate clock link and requires timing synchronization between the different data links. |
| US08726056B2 |
Clock control device, clock control method, clock control program and integrated circuit
An instruction detecting section (235) detects whether or not there is any succeeding instruction executable regardless of an order based on a data dependency relationship between a presently executed instruction and a succeeding instruction following the presently executed instruction. A clock switch judging section (236) receives notification of the start and end of a memory stall, determines whether or not a memory stall is occurring, and judges whether to switch a clock signal to be supplied to a CPU (200) to a low clock signal (239) or to stop the clock signal based on a detection result of the instruction detecting section (235) if it is judged that the memory stall is occurring. A clock switching section (237) switches the clock signal based on judgment by the clock switch judging section (236). By this construction, power consumption can be reduced without reducing performance. |
| US08726055B2 |
Multi-core power management
The disclosed embodiments provide a system that operates a processor in a multi-core processor system. During operation, the system detects the creation of an asynchronous wakeup event for the processor. In response to detecting the creation of the asynchronous wakeup event, when the processor is subsequently placed into an idle state, the system configures the processor to resume operation at a reduced frequency that is a fraction of an operating frequency for the multi-core processor system, wherein the reduced frequency allows more power to be allocated to other processors in the multi-core processor system. |
| US08726054B2 |
Cloud-based energy-saving service system and method
A cloud-based energy-saving service system and method are disclosed. The service system and method of this invention use the strong computation capabilities of the cloud computing technology and systems to determine the power consumption policies of the mobile devices and provide the policies to the mobile devices, whereby the mobile devices implement the power consumption policies to save its power consumptions. In one aspect, the invented system and method calculate and determine the backlight level polices for a particular video stream, then provide the policies information to the mobile devices for implementation. The policies information may be provided to the mobile devices independently or along with the video stream. The calculation of the backlight illumination levels may be done in advance or on remand. |
| US08726053B2 |
Method for processing a request by selecting an appropriate computer node in a plurality of computer nodes in a storage cluster based on a calculated bid value in each computer node
Each node and volume in a fixed-content storage cluster makes an independent decision whether to reduce power consumption based on lack of requests from client applications and nodes over a configurable time period. Node configuration parameters sleepAfter and wakeAfter respectively determine how long to wait until idling a node or volume, and how long to wait while idle before again performing integrity checks. A bid value is calculated by each node and reflects how much it will cost for that node to write a file, read a file, or keep a copy of the file. A node with the lowest bid wins, and nodes that are idle have a premium added to each bid to help ensure that idle nodes are kept idle. Normally, nodes with more capacity will submit a lower bid to write a file. In an archive mode, writes bids are reversed meaning that nodes with less capacity submit lower bids, meaning that fuller nodes fill up faster and are then idled, while empty or near empty nodes may remain idle for some time before winning a write bid. |
| US08726052B2 |
Battery life extending power supply system
A power supply system includes a battery and a power management system. The power management system is coupled to the battery and to an external power source that is operable to charge the battery using a first charge level. The power management system is operable to determine that a battery power level of the battery is greater than a first predetermined level that depends on a battery storage option and, in response, disable power from being supplied from the external power source such that power is supplied from the battery until the battery power level is below the first predetermined level. The power management system is also operable to determine that the battery power level of the battery is less than the first predetermined level and, in response, charge the battery with a second charge level that is less than the first charge level until the battery power level is above a second predetermined level that depends on the battery storage option. |
| US08726048B2 |
Power management coordination in multi-core processors
Systems and methods of managing power provide for issuing a first operating requirement from a first processor core and issuing a second operating requirement from a second processor core. In one embodiment, the operating requirements can reflect either a power policy or a performance policy, depending upon the factor that is currently most important to software. Hardware coordination logic is used to coordinate a shared resource setting with the operating requirements. The hardware coordination logic is also able to coordinate the shared resource setting with independent resource settings of the first and second processor cores based on the operating requirements. |
| US08726037B2 |
Encrypted memory access
Various systems and methods for encrypting data are disclosed. In one aspect, the method includes receiving a memory address and a value to be written in the memory address. The method also includes encrypting the value using the memory address as an initial value for an encryption process. The method also includes storing the encrypted value in the memory address. |
| US08726036B2 |
Identifying peers by their interpersonal relationships
According to this disclosure, a user is identified (and selectively granted access to protected resources) by using information that describes the user's interpersonal relationships. This information typically is stored in a datastore, such as a digital address book, an online profile page, or the like. The user's digital address book carries an “acquaintance pattern” that changes dynamically in time. This pattern comprises the information in the user's contact list entries. In this approach, the entropy inherent in this information is distilled into a unique acquaintance digest (or “fingerprint”) by normalizing the contact list data, and then applying a cryptographic function to the result. |
| US08726034B2 |
Cryptographic accumulators for authenticated hash tables
In one exemplary embodiment, an apparatus includes a memory storing data and a processor performing operations. The apparatus generates or maintains an accumulation tree for the stored data—an ordered tree structure with a root node, leaf nodes and internal nodes. Each leaf node corresponds to a portion of the data. A depth of the tree remains constant. A bound on a degree of each internal node is a function of a number of leaf nodes of a subtree rooted at the internal node. Each node of the tree has an accumulation value. Accumulation values of the root and internal nodes are determined by hierarchically employing an accumulator over the accumulation values of the nodes lying one level below the node in question. The accumulation value of the root node is a digest for the tree. |
| US08726032B2 |
System and method for protecting secrets file
A method for protecting a first secrets file. The method includes an n-bit generator generating a secrets file name for the secrets file and generating a decoy file names for decoy files. The secrets file includes a secret. Each of the decoy files includes decoy file contents, are a same size as the secrets file, and is associated with a modification time within a range of modification times. The modification time of the secrets file is within the range of modification times. The secrets file and decoy files are stored in a secrets directory. |
| US08726030B2 |
Terminal device, server device, content recording control system, recording method, and recording permission control method
A terminal device recording content onto a recording medium device, a permission to record the content onto the recording medium device being granted by a server device, the terminal device comprising: a generation unit generating a value calculated so as to represent subject content for which permission to record is requested; an information transmission unit requesting the permission from the server device by transmitting information indicating the value generated by the generation unit to the server device; a signature reception unit receiving subject content signature data from the server device, the subject content signature data being transmitted by the server device upon granting the permission; and a recording unit recording the subject content onto the recording medium device as one of plain-text data and encrypted data, as well as the subject content signature data received by the signature reception unit. |
| US08726026B2 |
End-to-end encryption method and system for emails
An end-to-end encryption method for emails sent from a sender (1) to a recipient (6) is disclosed. According to the method, the sender requests from an encryption system (16) a certificate corresponding to the recipient (6), and the encryption system (16) returns to the sender (11) a first, proforma certificate corresponding to the recipient (6). The sender (1) sends with his email client (11) an outgoing email to the recipient encrypted with the proforma certificate, and the email is forwarded through the encryption system (16). The encryption system (16) decrypts the email using a private key corresponding to the certificate and also makes the content of the email available to the recipient (6). |
| US08726019B2 |
Context limited shared secret
In a communication system in which two communication entities seek to have a private or confidential communication session, a trust relationship needs first be established. The trust relationship is based on the determination of a shared secret which in turn is generated from contextual information. The contextual information can be derived from the circumstances surrounding the communication session. For example, the contextual information can include topological information, time-based information, and transactional information. The shared secret may be self-generated or received from a third party. In either event, the shared secret may be used as key material for any cryptographic protocol used between the communication entities. |
| US08726013B2 |
Anti-keylogger computer network system
An anti-keylogger computer network system includes a servo-side host computer, with a servo software which requires the user to enter confidential data. An application-side host computer is provided and a keyboard is connected to the application-side host computer. The keys on the keyboard are divided into a data key and control key. An application software is installed in the application-side host computer to receive the instructions from the servo software, and to determine when the anti-keylogger function of the keyboard module shall be started and closed. A connection network is provided for connecting the servo-side host computer to the application-side host computer. A Translate Table program is installed in the application-side host computer and a Translate Table translation program is installed in the servo software of servo-side host computer. |
| US08726012B2 |
Method and apparatus for external organization path length validation within a public key infrastructure (PKI)
A method for external organization path length (EOPL) validation is provided. A relying party node of an organization receives an authentication request from a subject node of an external organization. The relying party node then obtains and evaluates certificates from a chain of certificates that link the subject node to a trust anchor of the relying party node wherein, at least one certificate from the chain of certificates comprises an enabled external organization flag (EOF) and/or an external organization path length constraint (EOPLC). The relying party node invalidates authentication of the subject node when the relying party node determines that a total number of enabled EOFs from certificates in the chain of certificates exceeds the lowest EOPLC value from certificates in the chain of certificates. |
| US08726009B1 |
Secure messaging using a trusted third party
A system and method to send a secure message from a sender to a recipient using strong encryption protocols without the need for the recipient to create a public/private key pair and by using a third party to appropriately identify the recipient without revealing actual identification information to the third party. Upon successful identification, the third party is able to provide a recipient with information that enables recipient to create and use the actual decryption key without revealing the actual decryption key to the third party. |
| US08726007B2 |
Techniques for packet processing with removal of IP layer routing dependencies
Techniques for packet processing with removal of Internet Protocol (IP) layer routing dependencies are presented. Encrypted packets associated with network communications occurring via a VPN and IP tunnel are grabbed off the network stack before being processed by an IP layer of the network stack. Next, an IP header is generated for the encrypted packets and the encrypted packets are sent to a socket application. The socket application provides the encrypted packets back to the network stack at the data link layer for delivery to the VPN over the IP tunnel. |
| US08726005B2 |
Website matching based on network traffic
A website fingerprint is generated that characterizes network traffic associated with a website as a website traffic fingerprint that includes size description(s), order description(s), and timing description(s) of packet traffic for the website. A website monitor generates website trace(s) of packet statistics. A correlation processor correlates a sequence of packet statistics from the website trace(s) with the size description, the order description, and timing description found in the website traffic fingerprint(s). |
| US08726003B2 |
Reconfigurable operation apparatus, data compression apparatus, reconfigurable operation method and computer-readable medium
A reconfigurable operation apparatus includes a reconfigurable circuit, a storage unit and a control unit. The reconfigurable circuit has a plurality of small circuits and reconfigures a circuit using the small circuit selected from the plurality of small circuits based on recorded circuit information. The storage unit stores first and second circuit information which corresponds to first and second compression circuits, respectively. The control unit reconfigures the reconfigurable circuit into the first or second compression circuit by recording the first or second circuit information in the reconfigurable circuit in accordance with an input data string. |
| US08726001B2 |
Option-based reverse configuration system by selecting an individual component
A configurator is provided with the ability to enable a customer to configure a system based upon selection of components to reside within the system. Based upon selected components, the customer is presented with systems in which the selected components can reside. |
| US08725999B2 |
Booting an integrated circuit
An integrated circuit is disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the integrated circuit includes: a processor; a plurality of external pins operatively coupled to the processor; and a permanently written memory operatively coupled to the processor, the memory having a plurality of regions each storing one or more respective boot properties for booting the processor. The processor is programmed to select one of the regions in dependence on an indication received via one or more of the external pins, to retrieve the one or more respective boot properties from the selected region, and to boot using the one or more retrieved boot properties. |
| US08725996B2 |
Boot mode
A method for launching a boot mode of a device including detecting an input in response to a user accessing a power button of the device, identifying at least one characteristic of the input and a corresponding boot mode which can be launched in response to at least one of the characteristic of the input, and configuring the device to launch the corresponding boot mode. |
| US08725995B1 |
Systems and methods for updating system-level services within read-only system images
A computer-implemented method for updating system-level services within read-only system images may include (1) executing, during initialization of a mobile computing device, an update service stored within a read-only system image located on the mobile computing device, (2) identifying, via the update service, a writable partition located on the mobile computing device, (3) identifying, via the update service, a digitally signed update within the writable partition for at least one system-level service stored within the read-only system image, and (4) executing, via the update service, the digitally signed update within the writable partition instead of the system-level service stored within the read-only system image. Various other methods, systems, and computer-readable media are also disclosed. |
| US08725993B2 |
Thread transition management
Various systems, processes, products, and techniques may be used to manage thread transitions. In particular implementations, a system and process for managing thread transitions may include the ability to determine that a transition is to be made regarding the relative use of two data register sets and determine, based on the transition determination, whether to move thread data in at least one of the data register sets to second-level registers. The system and process may also include the ability to move the thread data from at least one data register set to second-level registers based on the move determination. |
| US08725992B2 |
Programming language exposing idiom calls to a programming idiom accelerator
A programming language may include hint instructions that may notify a programming idiom accelerator that a programming idiom is coming. An idiom begin hint exposes the programming idiom to the programming idiom accelerator. Thus, the programming idiom accelerator need not perform pattern matching or other forms of analysis to recognize a sequence of instructions. Rather, the programmer may insert idiom hint instructions, such as an idiom begin hint, to expose the idiom to the programming idiom accelerator. Similarly, an idiom end hint may mark the end of the programming idiom. |
| US08725991B2 |
Register file system and method for pipelined processing
The present disclosure includes a multi-threaded processor that includes a first register file associated with a first thread and a second register file associated with a second thread. At least one hardware resource is shared by the first and second register files. In addition, the first thread may have a pipeline access position that is non-sequential to the second thread. A method of accessing a plurality of register files is also disclosed. The method includes reading data from a first register file while concurrently reading data from a second register file. The first register file is associated with a first instruction stream and the second register file is associated with a second instruction stream. The first instruction stream is sequential to the second instruction stream in an execution pipeline of a processor, and the first register file is in a non-adjacent location with respect to the second register file. |
| US08725988B2 |
Pre-fetching data into a memory
Systems and methods for pre-fetching of data in a memory are provided. By pre-fetching stored data from a slower memory into a faster memory, the amount of time required for data retrieval and/or processing may be reduced. First, data is received and pre-scanned to generate a sample fingerprint. Fingerprints stored in a faster memory that are similar to the sample fingerprint are identified. Data stored in the slower memory associated with the identified stored fingerprints is copied into the faster memory. The copied data may be compared to the received data. Various embodiments may be included in a network memory architecture to allow for faster data matching and instruction generation in a central appliance. |
| US08725986B1 |
System and method for volume block number to disk block number mapping
The present invention provides a system and method for virtual block numbers (VBNs) to disk block number (DBN) mapping that may be utilized for both single and/or multiple parity based redundancy systems. Following parity redistribution, new VBNs are assigned to disk blocks in the newly added disk and disk blocks previously occupied by parity may be moved to the new disk. |
| US08725981B2 |
Storage system and method implementing online volume and snapshot with performance/failure independence and high capacity efficiency
A storage system for storage of data written from a computer, and when a write request of data to a first logical volume is received, the data on request is stored into the first logical volume. When a first-generation snapshot creation request is received, the data stored in the first logical volume at the time of receiving the first-generation snapshot creation request is written into a pool region as data corresponding to a first-generation snapshot, and when a second-generation snapshot creation request is received, any portion of the data updated after the first-generation snapshot creation request is received but before the second-generation snapshot creation request is issued is read from the first logical volume for writing into the pool region. Such a storage system favorably implements snapshot backup with no dependency with a positive volume in terms of performance and failure, and with high capacity efficiency. |
| US08725978B2 |
Using symbol information for categorization of dynamic memory allocations
A programming and debugging system identifies one or more statically-allocated symbols in a symbol table for an inferior process. The statically-allocated symbols pertain to one or more structures for the inferior process. The inferior process has dynamic memory allocations in an inferior process memory space. The symbol table comprises data used to categorize the statically-allocated area of memory. The system locates the structures in the inferior process memory space and determines whether an address of the structures in the inferior process memory space matches an address of a block of the dynamically allocated area of memory. The system categorizes the block of dynamically allocated memory based on the determination of whether an address of the structures matches an address of a block of the dynamically allocated area of memory. |
| US08725975B2 |
Progressive memory initialization with waitpoints
A method includes initializing a counter value of a hardware counter. The method further includes iteratively adjusting the counter value and storing an initialization value to a memory location using a memory address based on the counter value. The method also includes generating an interrupt request based on a comparison of the counter value to a waitpoint value concurrent with iteratively adjusting and storing. A memory device includes a memory array and an initialization module. The initialization module includes a counter, a register to store a waitpoint value, write logic configured to write an initialization value to a memory location of the memory array associated with a memory address that is based on a counter value of the counter, and interrupt logic configured to generate an interrupt request based on a comparison of the counter value of the counter to the waitpoint value. |
| US08725974B2 |
Page-protection based memory access barrier traps
A method, apparatus and computer program product for providing page-protection based memory access barrier traps is presented. A value for a user-mode bit (u-bit) is computed for each extant virtual page in an address space, the u-bit indicative that an object on the virtual page is being moved by a Garbage Collector process. An instruction is executed which causes an access protection fault. The state of the u-bit for the virtual page associated with the access protection fault is consulted when the access protection fault is encountered. Additionally, the access protection fault is translated into a user-trap (utrap) and the utrap is serviced when the u-bit is set. |
| US08725973B2 |
Systems and methods for management of virtualization data
Described in detail herein is a method of copying data of one or more virtual machines being hosted by one or more non-virtual machines. The method includes receiving an indication that specifies how to perform a copy of data of one or more virtual machines hosted by one or more virtual machine hosts. The method may include determining whether the one or more virtual machines are managed by a virtual machine manager that manages or facilitates management of the virtual machines. If so, the virtual machine manager is dynamically queried to automatically determine the virtual machines that it manages or that it facilitates management of. If not, a virtual machine host is dynamically queried to automatically determine the virtual machines that it hosts. The data of each virtual machine is then copied according to the specifications of the received indication. |
| US08725972B2 |
Incremental backup of source to target storage volume
Various method, system, and computer program product embodiments for performing a backup of a source storage volume to a target storage volume are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a flashcopy of the source storage volume to the target storage volume is initiated. The content of the source storage volume is stored on the target storage volume in a space efficient manner. The space requirement of the stored content on the target storage volume is monitored. The flashcopy is terminated when the space requirement reaches a predetermined level. The stored content on the target storage volume is copied to a backup storage medium. A new flashcopy of the source storage volume is initiated. |
| US08725965B2 |
System setup for electronic backup
Systems and methods are provided for storing and restoring digital data. In some implementations, a method is provided. The method includes detecting a remote storage device, prompting the user to use the detected remote storage device for backup operations, receiving a user input to use the detected remote storage device for backup operations, and automatically configuring backup operations using the remote storage device. Other embodiments of this aspect include corresponding systems, apparatus, computer program products, and computer readable media. |
| US08725964B2 |
Interface systems and methods for accessing stored data
A modular data and storage management system. The system includes a time variance interface that provides for storage into a storage media of data that is received over time. The time variance interface of the modular data and storage management system provides for retrieval, from the storage media, of an indication of the data corresponding to a user specified date. The retrieved indication of the data provides a user with an option to access specific information relative to the data, such as content of files that are included in the data. |
| US08725963B1 |
System and method for managing a virtual swap file for virtual environments
A computer system has a random access memory (RAM) that stores currently used memory pages and SWAP storage for storing memory page that is not in use. If the process requires memory page stored on the SWAP storage, a corresponding page is loaded to RAM. If the page in RAM is not currently in use, it is moved to the SWAP storage. The computer system has a number of Virtual Environments (i.e., Containers) that run their own processes, a VE/Container RAM and a virtual SWAP storage. The Container processes have access to a VE/Container RAM. When the Container process request OS for memory, the memory manager allocates memory pages in the RAM and also allocates memory pages for the Container process in the VE/Container RAM. If no free virtual RAM is available, the process data is moved to the virtual SWAP storage. |
| US08725960B2 |
Techniques for providing data redundancy after reducing memory writes
A storage subsystem receives writes from a computer via a storage subsystem interface. The storage subsystem reduces a number of the writes. A single drive of the storage subsystem has primary and redundant storage devices with storage device interfaces. A disk controller of the single drive implements a data redundancy scheme by storing data associated with the reduced number of writes in the primary storage devices and by storing computed redundancy information in the redundant storage devices. The disk controller is operable without a loss of data in the presence of at least a single failure of any of the storage devices. Optionally the storage devices are flash memory devices. Optionally the disk controller is operable without a loss of data in the presence of at least two failures of any of the storage devices when a number of the redundant storage devices is at least two. |
| US08725957B2 |
Reducing access contention in flash-based memory systems
Exemplary embodiments include a method for reducing access contention in a flash-based memory system, the method including selecting a chip stripe in a free state, from a memory device having a plurality of channels and a plurality of memory blocks, wherein the chip stripe includes a plurality of pages, setting the ship stripe to a write state, setting a write queue head in each of the plurality of channels, for each of the plurality of channels in the flash stripe, setting a write queue head to a first free page in a chip belonging to the channel from the chip stripe, allocating write requests according to a write allocation scheduler among the channels, generating a page write and in response to the page write, incrementing the write queue head, and setting the chip stripe into an on-line state when it is full. |
| US08725949B2 |
Asynchronous data binding
The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for asynchronously binding data from a data source to a data target. A user interface thread and a separate thread are used to enable the user interface thread to continue execution rather than blocking to obtain updated data, to which elements of a user interface that the user interface thread is managing, are bound. The separate thread obtains updated data from a data source, stores the updated data in a local cache, and notifies the user interface thread of the updated data's presence in the local cache. The user interface thread, upon detecting the notification, accesses the updated data in the local cache and populates the updated data into the user interface. |
| US08725948B2 |
Opcode length caching
A computer system caches variable-length instructions in a data structure. The computer system locates a first copy of an instruction in the cached data structure using a current value of the instruction pointer as a key. The computer system determines a predictive length of the instruction, and reads a portion of the instruction from an instruction memory as a second copy. The second copy has the predictive length. Based on the comparison of the first copy with the second copy, the computer system determines whether or not to read the rest of the instruction from the instruction memory, and then interprets the instruction for use by the computer system. |
| US08725943B2 |
Method and system for secure data storage
A method and system for secure data storage and retrieval is provided. A sequence of data units is divided into multiple subsets of data units corresponding to multiple data channels. The multiple data channels are assigned to multiple data writers based on a key code. Then, each subset of data units is transferred to a writer via an assigned channel for writing to storage media. Thereafter, to securely retrieve the stored data, each subset of data units is read from the storage media using a data reader. The original sequence of data units can only be reassembled using the key code for properly reassembling the subsets of data units into their original sequence. |
| US08725937B2 |
Fault-tolerant non-volatile integrated circuit memory
Apparatus and methods are disclosed, such as those that store data in a plurality of non-volatile integrated circuit memory devices, such as NAND flash, with convolutional encoding. A relatively high code rate for the convolutional code consumes relatively little extra memory space. In one embodiment, the convolutional code is spread over portions of a plurality of memory devices, rather than being concentrated within a page of a particular memory device. In one embodiment, a code rate of m/n is used, and the convolutional code is stored across n memory devices. |
| US08725936B2 |
Storage system with flash memory, and storage control method
A storage system has: one or more flash memory chips, each of which has a storage region configured by a plurality of blocks; and a device controller that controls access to data corresponding to the storage regions of the flash memory chips. The device controller manages for each of the blocks the number of determination readings for determining read disturb on the basis of a read request with respect to data of each block from a higher-level device, and, when there is a block for which the number of determination readings becomes equal to or larger than a threshold represented as a standard indicating a predetermined state related to read disturb, transmits, to the higher-level device, notification information that includes information indicating that read disturb of the block enters the predetermined state. |
| US08725935B2 |
Balanced performance for on-chip folding of non-volatile memories
A non-volatile memory system receives and stores host data. As the memory system receives host data, it initially writes the data in a binary format and then subsequently performs an on-chip folding operation on the data, storing the data in a multi-state format. The memory system interleaves the phases of the folding operations, where the host stores data according to allocation units. The memory system also can perform the binary and subsequent on-chip folding operations on multiple memory planes in parallel, where the controller also balances the operations. When the memory system needs a memory block for the writing of data, it selects blocks from a free block list, where the free block list includes a reserve portion that is only accessible for a specified set of commands. |
| US08725934B2 |
Methods and appratuses for atomic storage operations
A method and apparatus for storing data packets in two different logical erase blocks pursuant to an atomic storage request is disclosed. Each data packet stored in response to the atomic storage request comprises persistent metadata indicating that the data packet pertains to an atomic storage request. In addition, a method and apparatus for restart recovery is disclosed. A data packet preceding an append point is identified as satisfying a failed atomic write criteria, indicating that the data packet pertains to a failed atomic storage request. One or more data packets associated with the failed atomic storage request are identified and excluded from an index of a non-volatile storage media. |
| US08725933B2 |
Method to detect uncompressible data in mass storage device
Described are embodiments of methods, apparatus, and systems for detecting incompressible data and selectively compressing compressible data without compressing the incompressible data. A method may include determining a first compressibility value of first data of a plurality of input data and a second compressibility value of second data of the plurality of input data, determining that the first data is incompressible based at least in part on the first compressibility value relative to a compressibility threshold, and compressing the second data of the plurality of input data. Other embodiments may be described and claimed. |
| US08725931B1 |
System and method for managing the execution of memory commands in a solid-state memory
Embodiments of the invention are directed to a storage subsystem comprising a non-volatile solid-state memory array and a controller. In one embodiment, the controller includes a system operation module configured to manage system memory operations and a queue configured to receive memory commands from a host system and the system operation module. The controller is configured to execute, in the memory array, memory commands from the queue in a sequence that is based at least in part on a throttling ratio provided by the system operation module. |
| US08725929B1 |
Adaptive read and write systems and methods for memory cells
Adaptive memory read and write systems and methods are provided that may compute estimated means and variances of multi-level memory cells to facilitate writing and reading of data to and from the multi-level memory cells are described herein. The systems may include an apparatus comprising multi-level memory cells, and an estimation block configured to compute estimated means and variances of level distributions of the multi-level memory cells by processing signal samples provided by at least a subset of the multi-level memory cells, the estimated means and variances to be used to facilitate writing and/or reading of data to and/or from at least selected ones of the multi-level memory cells, the multi-level memory cells having M-levels where M is an integer greater than 1, and each of the level distributions is associated with a corresponding level of the M-levels. |
| US08725922B2 |
Data processor and control system
Provided are a data processor, and a control system, in which an interrupt controller and an event link controller are adopted. The event link controller responds to a generated event signal to output a start control signal for controlling start of an operation of a circuit module. The circuit module is able to generate an event signal. The event link controller generates the start control signal according to the correspondences between event signals and start control signals which are defined by event control information. The links between the event signals and start control signals can be prescribed by the event control information. Therefore, operations of circuit modules prescribed by such links can be controlled sequentially. The control neither involves save and return processes by CPU as in the interrupt processing, nor needs priority level control as executed on competing interrupt requests. |
| US08725916B2 |
Host side implementation for HID I2C data bus
In embodiments of host side implementation for HID I2C data bus, a computing system includes a human interface device (HID) software stack that implements device software, such as for embedded devices, that interfaces the computing system to a peripheral device via HID over I2C. An HID I2C driver interfaces the HID software stack with the peripheral devices that each include an HID I2C interface to a device that communicates data in the computing system via an I2C data bus. The HID I2C driver is compatible and interfaces with I2C controller drivers and GPIO controller drivers of the devices, where the I2C controller drivers and the GPIO controller drivers may each have a different implementation configuration. |
| US08725914B2 |
Message signaled interrupt management for a computer input/output fabric incorporating platform independent interrupt manager
An apparatus, program product and method dynamically bind Message Signaled Interrupt (MSI) resources shared by a plurality of clients to an interrupt facility in an MSI-capable computer. In addition, management of such bindings may be implemented using a platform independent interrupt manager capable of managing multiple MSI bindings between MSI resources to an interrupt facility, and interfaced with an underlying hardware platform of a computer through platform-specific encapsulation program code. |
| US08725913B2 |
Numa I/O framework
A method for binding input/output (I/O) objects to nodes includes an subsystem receiving a request to use an I/O device from a process, determining a first resource to service the request, generating a first I/O object corresponding to the first resource, wherein the first I/O object is unbound, and sending the first I/O object to a Non-Uniform Memory Access (NUMA) I/O Framework. The method further includes the NUMA I/O Framework selecting a first NUMA node of a plurality of NUMA nodes, to which to bind the first I/O object and binding the first I/O object to the first NUMA node. The method further includes servicing the request by processing, on the first NUMA node, the first resource corresponding to the first I/O object. |
| US08725912B2 |
Dynamic balancing of IO resources on NUMA platforms
A method for binding input/output (I/O) objects to nodes. The method includes receiving, by an I/O Subsystem, a request to use an I/O device from a process, determining a first resource to service the request, and generating a first I/O object corresponding to the first resource. The method includes sending the first I/O object to a NUMA I/O Framework, obtaining a first I/O object effective load from the first I/O object, and obtaining a first I/O load capacity of a first NUMA node of a plurality of NUMA nodes. The method includes comparing the first I/O load capacity and the first I/O object effective load, selecting the first NUMA node based on a determination that the first I/O load capacity is greater than the first I/O object effective load, binding the first I/O object to the first NUMA node, and processing the first resource corresponding to the first I/O object. |
| US08725911B2 |
Automatic access and control of media peripherals on a media exchange network
Methods are disclosed for automatically monitoring and controlling at least one media peripheral device in a media exchange network. A communication link is established between a media management system (MMS) and a media peripheral (MP) device in the media exchange network and an operation of the MP device is automatically selected via the MMS over the communication link. Finally, the operation of the MP device is automatically carried out (i.e., performed). Also, after establishing a communication link between a media management system (MMS) and a media peripheral (MP) device in the media exchange network, at least one status parameter of the MP device may be automatically monitored via the MMS over the communication link. The status parameter may be automatically stored and/or displayed via the MMS. |
| US08725909B2 |
Method for identifying host operating system by universal serial bus (USB) device
A method for identifying a host operating system by a Universal Serial Bus (USB) device is disclosed, which pertains to the field of information security. The method includes: A) the USB device is powered on and initiated; B) it is determined whether the first setup packet is a first preset command, if yes, C is performed, if not, D is performed; C) it is determined whether the seventh byte of the first preset command is a second preset value, if yes, an operating system identification is set as a first preset identification, and F is performed, otherwise, E is performed; D) it is determined whether the first setup packet is a second preset command, if yes, the operating system identification is set as a second preset identification, and F is performed, otherwise, E is performed; E) information interaction with the host is performed according to a default operating system identification until the last setup packet is received, and it is determined whether the last setup packet is a third preset command, if yes, the operating system identification is set as a third preset identification, if not, the operating system identification is set as a fourth preset identification; F) information interaction with the host is performed according to the present operating system identification, and then it waits to receive the instructions issued by the host. |
| US08725901B2 |
Analysis tool for intra-node application messaging
A method and apparatus for transforming message events between applications running on a computing device into a form that appears as network events between multiple virtual network access devices. These “network events” may then be processed by known network software protocol analyzers. |
| US08725900B2 |
Method and apparatus for processing data in a pipeline, in which processing the length of information contained in the data packet and/or the position of the information in the data packet is altered
The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for pipelined processing of data. When a data packet containing information is received by a processor operating according to pipelined processing, bits are added to the data packet and an intermediate packet, comprising more bits than the received data packet, is generated. To the intermediate packet is associated information reference, the information reference comprising information regarding the length and position of the information in the intermediate packet. As the intermediate packet is processed, changes to the intermediate packet resulting in changes of the length or the position of the information in the intermediate packet will trigger changes of the information reference. When the intermediate packet exits the processor, superfluous bits are removed. |
| US08725893B2 |
Method and system for configuring a plurality of network interfaces that share a physical interface
Certain aspects of a method and system for configuring a plurality of network interfaces that share a physical interface (PHY) may include a system comprising one or more physical network interface controllers (NICs) and two or more virtual NICs. One or more drivers associated with each of the virtual NICs that share one or more Ethernet ports associated with the physical NICs may be synchronized based on controlling one or more parameters associated with one or more Ethernet ports. One or more wake on LAN (WoL) patterns associated with each of the drivers may be detected at one or more Ethernet ports. A wake up signal may be communicated to one or more drivers associated with the detected WoL patterns. One of the drivers may be appointed to be a port master driver. If a failure of the appointed port master driver is detected, another driver may be appointed to be the port master driver. |
| US08725888B2 |
Systems and methods for providing content and services on a network system
Systems and methods for managing and providing content and services on a network system. Aspects of the invention include location-based determination of network content and services that may be provided to client computers. Other aspects of the invention include authorization and authentication components that determine access rights of client computers. Additional aspects include systems and methods for redirecting client computers to different network content. The disclosed systems and methods may be used in numerous network system applications. |