Document Document Title
US08845028B2 Infant supporting device
An infant supporting device incorporates a central member on either side of a seat frame that houses a reclining mechanism along with mounting locations for the seat frame, a bounce wire, a carry handle, and a seat support wire. With one movement of a recline driving mechanism, a sliding member in the seat frame pushes a second gear to disengage from a first gear of the central member, and a main body of the seat frame is then rotatable with respect to the central members within a range of recline angles. The design provides an economical, smaller, and lighter weight solution to house the main features of the infant supporting device.
US08845024B2 Chair back with lumbar and pelvic supports
An office chair is provided having a back assembly which is configured to provide supplemental support to the back of a chair occupant in addition to the support provided by the primary support surface of the chair back. The chair back includes a lumbar support unit having a lumbar support pad wherein asymmetric support is provided to the left and right halves of the lumbar pad. As such, the asymmetric support loads are independently adjustable to more comfortably support a chair occupant. The chair back also includes a pelvic support pad which is disposed vertically adjacent to the lumbar support.
US08845020B2 Vehicle seat
A cushion is arranged on a frame member and covered by a cover. Also, a support member is attached to the frame member and extends in a vertical direction when a seat back is in an upright position, and an attaching portion to which a portion of the cover attaches is provided on the support member. The support member supports the cushion on the frame member, and the portion of the cover is attached tucked in to the attaching portion.
US08845019B2 Folding type seat
A folding type seat of the present invention includes a body section supporting bracket, supporting a body section of a reclining mechanism, and a passive section supporting bracket, supporting a passive section of the reclining mechanism, which are located inward of external surfaces of a seat cushion or a seat back at positions spaced therefrom by predetermined distances. At least one of the brackets is provided with an impact absorbing section, which is caused to deform for absorbing impact energy imparted to a vehicle.
US08845010B2 Hood assembly for a vehicle and method of aligning front end assembly components for a vehicle
A hood assembly for a vehicle includes a hood having a top side and an underside. Also included is a hood latch-striker reinforcement plate operably coupled to the underside of the hood and having a retaining recess. Further included is at least a portion of a centering tool removably disposed within the retaining recess and extending downwardly away from the underside of the hood. Yet further included is a centering bracket operably coupled to a top support member of a positioning and reinforcement structure and having an aperture configured to receive the centering tool therein for locating the positioning and reinforcement structure to the hood.
US08845008B1 Wind deflector for a tank trailer
A wind deflector assembly formed about or part of a hatch assembly surrounding an access port of a tank trailer to control wind flow about the hatch assembly to reduce wind drag on the tank trailer. The wind deflector assembly includes a first downwardly forwardly directed smooth surface extending from the hatch assembly toward the front end of the tank trailer and preferably includes a second smooth surface extending downwardly rearwardly from the hatch assembly toward the rear end of the tank trailer. An intervening opening is formed between the spaced wind deflecting surfaces for receiving the access port therein and maybe covered by a smooth closure member.
US08845007B2 Drag reducing device
A drag reducing device includes an air flow turning component having a curved surface adapted to turn air flow passing over the curved surface, a first mounting component for connecting the air flow turning component to a rear door of the vehicle, and a second mounting component for connecting the air flow turning component to one of the opposite side walls of the vehicle. The mounting components are configured so that the air flow component is automatically in a deployed position when the rear door is closed, so the air flow turning component turns air flow passing along the side the vehicle inward to thereby reduce drag. The mounting components are further configured so that the air flow component is automatically stowed between the rear door and the vehicle side wall when the door is fully opened. The air turning component is sized for a minimal prominence when stowed.
US08845003B2 Snap-in fastener
A snap-in fastener is provided for securing a vehicle component to a vehicle structure. The fastener comprises a base having a longitudinal axis, a first leg extending downwardly and outwardly from the base and configured to apply a force to the vehicle structure in a first direction, and a second leg extending downwardly from the base and configured to apply a force to the vehicle structure in a second direction that is substantially opposite the first direction. The first leg may have a first portion extending from the base at a first angle relative to the longitudinal axis and a second portion extending from the first portion at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axis that is different than the first angle. The first leg may also have a foot having a contact surface with an inwardly extending profile for engaging an edge of the vehicle structure.
US08845000B2 Vehicle sun visor
A vehicle sun visor includes a sun visor body, a support shaft mounted on a ceiling surface of a vehicle cabin and configured to support the sun visor body at a turning center position of the sun visor body such that the sun visor body is turnable between a storage position at which the sun visor body is oriented along the ceiling surface of the vehicle cabin and a use position at which the sun visor body is able to block light, a damper configured to apply braking force at the time when the sun visor body turns, and a slide mechanism configured to hold the sun visor body such that the sun visor body is slidable in an axial direction of the support shaft with respect to the support shaft.
US08844992B1 Vehicle, a clip assembly for the vehicle, and a method of manufacturing the clip assembly
A vehicle, a clip assembly for the vehicle and a method of manufacturing the clip assembly are disclosed. The clip assembly includes a first housing and a second housing attached to the first housing to define a pre-deployed position and detached from the first housing to define a deployed position. The clip assembly also includes a strap formed of a plurality of strands braided together. The strap is affixed to the first and second housings to tether together the first and second housings in both the pre-deployed and deployed positions. The clip assembly further includes an attachment member attachable to the first housing and detachable from the first housing to adjust the attachment member relative to the first housing.
US08844991B2 Device for securing and carrying a cooler and for optionally repairing a lid of the cooler
A device includes first straps configured to be secured around a container in a first direction, second straps configured to be secured around the container in a second direction, and third straps configured to be placed partially around the container in a third direction. The device also includes first handles coupled to the third straps, where the first handles are configured to be raised above the container during lifting of the container. The device further includes second handles coupled to one of the first straps, where the second handles are configured to remain secured to the first straps during lifting of the container. The device may also include multiple grommets configured to receive multiple connectors for securing the second straps to a body of the container and to a lid of the container. Lengths of at least the first and second straps may be adjustable.
US08844990B2 Advertising device for an improved golf ball retriever with magnetic element
An advertising device for an improved golf ball retriever is provided. The golf ball retriever includes a hollow shaft made of a clear plastic material wherein an advertising slip can be placed into the hollow shaft by the use of a pole. The shaft may include a grip on one end for secure maneuvering of the golf ball retriever during retrieval. The shaft includes a suction cup with a hollow center on the opposite end where the grip may be located for retrieving a golf ball. The top end of the shaft also includes apertures in the shaft that allow a hanging device to be removably affixed to the shaft of the golf ball retriever. The top end of the shaft also has an end cap removably attached to the shaft to enclose the top end of the hollow shaft.
US08844983B2 Connection support device and refrigerator having the same
A refrigerator including a storage container that may be selectively coupled to a refrigerator body or to a door by a storage container support device is provided. The refrigerator may include a refrigerator body having a storage compartment formed therein, a rotatable door to open or close the storage compartment, a gasket provided between the door and the refrigerator body, a storage container that may be selectively coupled to the door or to the refrigerator body, a storage container support device provided at the door, the refrigerator body or the storage container to allow the storage container to be selectively coupled to and supported by the refrigerator body or the door, and a control device provided in the door to selectively control operation of the storage container support device from an exterior of the door.
US08844977B2 Suction connection for connecting a suction pipe to a dry installed centrifugal pump
A suction connection, including a first flange that includes a centrally located through hole and is arranged to be connected to an outlet of a suction pipe and a second flange that includes a centrally located through hole and that is arranged to be connected to an inlet of a dry installed centrifugal pump. The suction connection includes a first pipe socket, which is displacable in the axial direction between an operative position in which said first pipe socket disengageably connects the first flange and the second flange and thereby puts the through hole of the first flange in fluid communication with the through hole of the second flange, and a service position in which the first pipe socket is located at a distance from the second flange and thereby admit access to the through hole of the second flange.
US08844976B2 Seal assembly including a multilayered sliding member
A seal designed, in particular, to connect together two ducts for carrying fluid or gas, including: a female endpiece having a first end, a male endpiece having a second end, the male endpiece being received in the female endpiece. The seal includes a sliding element situated between the first end of the female endpiece and the second end of the male endpiece, the sliding element including a stack of at least two layers of an intermetallic material, making it possible to prevent the propagation of a crack from one layer to the next layer.
US08844975B2 Hose intervention clamp and clamp system for field repair
A hose intervention clamp is provided for clamping a hose/connection nipple assembly, wherein the hose/connection nipple assembly has a hose and a connection nipple having a locking slot. The hose intervention clamp includes a locking ring, an upper clamp portion, and a lower clamp portion pivotally connected to the upper clamp portion. The upper and lower clamp portions are pivotally moveable relative to each other from a first at least partially open position to a second locking position, and in the second locking position the upper and lower clamp portions define a recess for receiving the hose/nipple assembly. The locking ring is configured to be received in the locking slot when the upper and lower clamp portions are in the second locking position. A hose intervention clamp system includes a hose/connection nipple assembly having a hose and a connection nipple having a locking slot, and the described clamp.
US08844965B2 Airbag tear seam shapes
A vehicle interior panel for use over an airbag includes a substrate having an airbag door region and a decorative covering disposed over the airbag door region. A tear seam is formed in the decorative covering along a path having an end portion that is non-orthogonal with respect to a hinge side of the airbag door region. The tear seam path may include a central portion that lies along a side of the airbag door region opposite the hinge side, along with end portions that form obtuse included angles with the central portion. In some cases, the end portions diverge from a perimeter of the airbag door region and may generally extend along high deployment stress regions of the covering. Tear seams formed along such a path may reduce airbag inflation energy losses associated with tearing the covering material(s) during airbag deployment.
US08844964B2 Convertible tandem stroller with a double seat transfer mechanism
A convertible tandem stroller with a double seat transfer mechanism includes a wheeled rack, a pair of extension arms and a pair of chairs. The stroller is featured with the wheeled rack having a swivel mount, the pair of extension arms being connected to the swivel mount, and the pair of chairs being swivelly mounted on the pair of extension arms. The extension arms are capable of swiveling relative to the wheeled rack and positioning on a longitudinally oriented position and a transversely oriented position so as to convert the stroller from a tandem style to a side-by-side double seat style, and vice versa.
US08844961B2 Stand-up unit for stand-up wheelchairs and chairs, particularly therapy chairs
The stand-up unit comprises a support a stand-up frame, which is articulated on the support and has a seat carrier carrying a seat, and a backrest carrier carrying a backrest. Furthermore, a first lever parallelogram is provided in order to maintain the backrest upright in any position. The backrest can be displaced by the first lever parallelogram by means of a rod, in order to ensure that no undesirable relative movement occurs between the backrest and the back of the user when getting up or sitting down. A second lever parallelogram controls the movement of the seat when getting up and sitting down to ensure that no relative movement develops between the seat and buttocks of the user. The stand-up unit may be provided with a base to serve as a chair, particularly a therapy chair. The stand-up unit, however, may also serve as a stand-up wheelchair, when connected to an undercarriage. Spring joint elements support the standing up.
US08844958B2 Saddle-ride type vehicle
A saddle-ride type vehicle prevents attachment accuracy from causing influence on assembly especially in a case of attaching lid opening levers to grab rails and attaching lid opening mechanisms to a vehicle body frame side separately from the lid opening levers Each lid opening lever is pivotally attached to a grab rail through a pivot center shaft. Each lid opening mechanism is bolted to a stay on an upper pipe 9a. The lid opening lever is provided with an engagement portion. A curved surface portion provided on an upper end portion of a bent protrusion a projecting upward from the lid opening mechanism is inserted in the engagement portion to vertically engage the lid opening lever and the lid opening mechanism with each other. In this way, the assembly can be done without being influenced by the attachment accuracy.
US08844947B1 Mobile chair
A mobile chair (10) includes a seat (11), and a tray (12) having a front edge (17) that is shorter than its rear edge (18). A caster assembly (14) is carried by the tray (12) at the front and rear corners of the tray (12). A brace assembly (13) attaches the seat (11) to the tray (12) and includes a tube portion (27) attached to the tray (12) between the caster assemblies (14) at the front corners of the tray (12) and tube portions (34) attached to the tray (12) near the rear corners.
US08844946B2 Rotating assembly
A synchronized rotating wheel assembly for a recreational device having wheels is disclosed. The assembly includes a base plate having top and bottom surfaces, the top surface of the base plate adapted to be attached to a portion of the recreational device, a gear assembly joined with the bottom surface of the base plate, and first and second wheel assemblies respectively joined with the first and second interconnected gears. The gear assembly includes first and second interconnected gears, a mechanism for rotating the first and second gears in unison and in the same direction, and a bias spring mechanism for returning the first and second interconnected gears to a default position when the gear assembly is not under stress. The mechanism may include a third gear between the first and second interconnected gears or a belt having teeth that cooperate with both the first and second interconnected gears.
US08844942B1 Quick-load connector for a surgical tool
A mechanical connector designed to connect an orthopedic tool to a handle or motor. The connector includes a locking ball and spring-load sleeve mechanism that compresses a ball into an annular groove of the tool drive shaft, locking the shaft in the connector. The tool drive shaft is released from the connector by applying a force to the housing in a proximal direction. A portion of the housing removes the locking ball from the groove of the tool drive shaft, unlocking the shaft from the connector as the housing travels in a proximal direction.
US08844940B2 Dual Size tool-bit holder
A tool-bit holder (10) for varying tool-bit shank profiles comprising a hub (12) having a longitudinal bore (28) adapted for receiving a tool-bit shank (66, 70, 80). The hub (12) has a plurality of radial slots (38) communicating with the first section (30) of the longitudinal bore (28). The tool-bit holder (10) has a collar (14) fixedly attached to the hub (12) adjacent the open (29) and disposed annularly about the hub (12). A sleeve (16) is axially slidably mounted and disposed annularly about the hub (12). The sleeve (16) has a plurality of radial bores (48), each being in communication with a respective radial slot (38) of the hub (12) with a detent ball (18) disposed within each. A spring (20) is provided for biasing the sleeve (16) towards the open end (29) wherein the detent ball (18) engages an inner ramp face (46) of the collar (14).
US08844939B2 Adapter for a power tool
An adapter for a power tool is disclosed which comprises a drive shaft that can be connected to an output shaft of the power tool in a rotationally fixed manner. There is a receiving connector on the power tool. On the adapter there is provided an assigned sleeve that can be pushed onto the receiving connector, and which comprises a clamping ring, which acts together with locking members in order to effect locking of the sleeve on the receiving connector when in a closed position, the clamping ring being held so as to be movable in the axial direction and being preloaded in the direction of the closed position. The locking members act together with the clamping ring in such a way that locking is effected automatically in the closed position when the adapter is pushed onto the power tool as far as the closed position, and a release of the adapter from the closed position can be effected through an axial movement of the clamping ring against its preload.
US08844938B2 Emergency sacrificial sealing method in filters, equipment, or systems
A system seals a filter or equipment component to a base and will continue to seal the filter or equipment component to the base in the event of hot air or fire. The system includes a first sealing material between the filter or equipment component and the base; and a second sealing material between the filter or equipment component and the base and proximate the first sealing material. The first sealing material and the second seal material are positioned relative to each other and relative to the filter or equipment component and the base to seal the filter or equipment component to the base and upon the event of fire the second sealing material will be activated and expand to continue to seal the filter or equipment component to the base in the event of hot air or fire.
US08844937B2 Sealing device
An annular sealing device for a shaft and housing that can maintain sealing properties under fluid pressure load when creep occurs in a cut portion due to thermal expansion and the perimeter is shortened. The sealing device includes a seal ring unit configured to fit within an annular groove in the shaft, and has, on the side thereof where the outer periphery is located, a sliding surface on which the seal ring unit slides on the housing; and a lip portion on the inner periphery of the seal ring. The lip portion of tip is disposed on the side of the annular groove where a groove bottom thereof is located, in such a way that the tip thereof is deformable in a direction in which the tip increases the distance between the seal ring unit and the groove bottom of the annular groove when under pressure.
US08844930B2 Method for shuffling and dealing cards
A card shuffler that moves cards one-at-a-time from the bottom of a group that may be a deck in a deck-crib, to randomly designated single-card receptacles in a receiving or dealing rack, and a method for shuffling and for dealing cards. Either the deck-crib or the receiving rack is moved by a motor to align a single-card receptacle, randomly selected from among remaining empty single-card receptacles, with an outfeed slot of the deck-crib to receive each card to be moved from the deck-crib. A space is provided in the dealing rack in one embodiment, where a dealer's hand can reach cards and remove them from the dealing rack. A controller can cause the dealing rack to move so as to allow a selected number of cards to be removed by the dealer for dealing as a player hand or a dealer hand. A card reader may be included, and positions in the receiving or dealing rack of cards identified by the card reader can be stored in memory in the controller.
US08844929B2 Virtual gaming machine
A gaming method includes repetitive plays simulating rolls of virtual dice by a player and at least one of a bonus feature and a progressive feature. A gaming method includes scoring dice.
US08844928B2 Dual-profile foosball foot
A foot for a foosball man having a convex center portion along the operative region of the front surface of the foosball foot, and substantially straight edges, or flat planes, along the outer portions. This dual-configuration enables the foot to take advantage of the greater control in trapping, controlling and hitting the ball forward using the convex portion, and the improved control of hitting angled and bank shots using the straight edge, or flat plane, outer portions.
US08844927B2 Sheet loading apparatus, erasing apparatus, and sheet loading method
A sheet loading apparatus includes a loading member which loads the sheet discharged by the discharge member, a tip support member which abuts against the leading edge of the sheet discharged by the discharge member in the sheet discharge direction, a rotation member which abuts against an upper surface of the sheet discharged to the loading member, and is rotated to transport the sheet to the stopper side, and a control section which controls a transport amount of the sheet through the rotation member based on a loading amount of the sheet loaded on the loading member.
US08844926B1 Controlling recharging to restore electrostatic holding force
A method is described for controlling a printer including a transport belt having an electrically non-conducting surface adapted to provide an electrostatic holding force for transporting a receiver medium along a transport path from an upstream position to a downstream position. A charging subsystem is controlled to add charge to the transport belt or the receiver medium, thereby providing an initial electrostatic holding force. An inking subsystem positioned downstream of the charging subsystem is controlled to deposit a pattern of ink on the receiver medium. A level of charge on the receiver medium is sensed using a charge sensing device positioned downstream of the inking subsystem. A recharging subsystem is controlled responsive to the sensed level of charge on the receiver medium to restore at least some charge dissipated while the receiver medium is transported between the charging subsystem and the recharging subsystem.
US08844924B2 Sheet feeding devices, image reading devices and image forming devices
A sheet feeding device configured to feed sheets, the sheet feeding device including a tray configured to receive the sheets; a separation portion configured to separate the sheets one by one; a guide portion configured to guide feeding of the sheets while regulating a position of the sheets in a width direction that is orthogonal to a feed direction of the sheets, the guide portion comprising an upstream side end portion, in the feed direction of the sheets, which is disposed above the tray and a downstream side end portion, in the feed direction, which extends further to the downstream side, in the feed direction, than the separation portion.
US08844918B1 Micro adjustable stop
A micro adjustable stop is provided for use with wood working tools. The micro adjustable stop includes a base having a first adjustment rod, a support rod and a base plate, wherein the support rod and first adjustment rod coupled to a wood working tool on one end of the support rod and the first adjustment rod and the base plate coupled at an opposing end of the support rod and the first adjustment rod. The micro adjustable stop includes a second adjustment rod with a stop coupled at one end of the second adjustment rod. Additionally, the micro adjustable stop has an adjustment mechanism having a first end and an opposing second end, the second end comprising a micro adjustment device, wherein the first end of the adjustment mechanism is operatively coupled to the first adjustment rod and micro adjustment device is operatively coupled to the second adjustment rod.
US08844912B2 Shock absorber having compressible fluid
A shock absorber for a vehicle, having a bellows piston, bellows, and a fluid as the damping medium. The shock absorber has a first partition wall, which is situated on the bellows piston, and is implemented to separate a volume area of the bellows piston from a volume area of the bellows. The first partition wall has a first opening, which is implemented to limit a fluid flow between the volume area of the bellows piston and the volume area of the bellows. The shock absorber further has a sprung mass, which is situated inside the shock absorber to influence the fluid flow inside the shock absorber.
US08844910B2 Gas strut assembly with an internal detent module
A gas strut assembly includes a housing defining an interior space. A rod is coupled to the housing, and is slideably moveable between an extended position and a retracted position. A flexible member is secured in position relative to the housing. A rigid member is coupled to and moveable with the rod. The flexible member includes at least one displaceable member that moves radially away from the central axis in response to a second radial force component of a closing force when engaged by the rigid member moving from the extended position into the retracted position. The flexible member includes a multi-layered structure that changes shape in response to a change in temperature to affect the magnitude of the second radial force component required to move the displaceable member.
US08844909B2 Gasification systems and methods for making bubble free solutions of gas in liquid
Embodiments disclosed herein can introduce low amounts of gas in a liquid with fast response time and low variation in concentration. In one embodiment, a gas is directed into an inlet on a gas contacting side of a porous element of a contactor and a liquid is directed into an inlet on a liquid contacting side of the porous element of the contactor. The liquid contacting side and the gas contacting side are separated by the porous element and a housing. The gas is removed from an outlet on the gas contacting side of the porous element at a reduced pressure compared to the pressure of the gas flowing into the inlet of the contactor. A liquid containing a portion of the gas transferred into the liquid is removed from an outlet on the liquid contacting side of the porous element, producing a dilute bubble free solution.
US08844908B2 Humidifier
A humidifier includes a base having a sound machine module and a humidifier module, a water reservoir in fluid communication with the humidifier module, a user interface supported by the base, and a controller in communication with the user interface, the humidifier module, and the sound machine module. The controller is configured to operate the humidifier module to provide humidified air using water contained in the water reservoir in response to a humidifier input to the user interface. The controller is also configured to operate the sound machine module to provide sound in response to a sound input to the user interface.
US08844900B2 Activation element of an electromagnetic actuating unit of a hydraulic valve
An activation element of an electromagnetic actuating unit of a hydraulic valve which has an armature that is essentially cylindrical and which is arranged in a slidable fashion in the actuating unit. Also, a method for manufacturing an activation element of an electromagnetic actuating unit of a hydraulic valve. The activation element has at least one substantially cylindrical armature, one plunger rod and one magnet cone. The plunger rod and the magnet cone are embodied in one piece with the armature.
US08844899B2 Control valve
A control valve includes a signal pressure passage that transmits a pilot pressure in first and second pilot chambers as a signal pressure of another device, and first and second connecting grooves that connect the first and second pilot chambers to the signal pressure passage when a spool is in a neutral position. When the pilot pressure is led into the first pilot chamber such that the spool moves, the first connecting groove connects the first pilot chamber to the signal pressure passage while the second connecting groove separates from the signal pressure passage. When the pilot pressure is led into the second pilot chamber such that the spool moves, the second connecting groove connects the second pilot chamber to the signal pressure passage while the first connecting groove separates from the signal pressure passage.
US08844891B2 Slide apparatus for vehicle and rolling element circulation unit for the same
A slide apparatus for a vehicle includes first and second rails and a rolling element circulation unit including first and second cases and a plurality of rolling elements accommodated within a receiving portion that includes first and second annular receiving portions accommodating the rolling elements annularly arranged in a rolling and circulating manner. The second case includes elongated bores connected to the first and second annular receiving portions in a state where the second case is mounted at the second rail. A portion of the rolling elements is exposed from the elongated bores while being inhibited from disengaging from the elongated bores. The rolling elements exposed from the elongated bores make contact with an operating surface of the first rail and inner surfaces of the first and second annular receiving portions, and roll and circulate in association with a relative movement between the first and second rails.
US08844885B1 Fabric suspension system
A suspension system for hanging fabric articles such as quilts or the like from a vertical surface such as a wall or partition. A C-shaped bar is passed through a sleeve of the fabric article which is conventionally provided for accommodating a hanger. A mounting bracket has a projecting tab which enters the opening of the bar and engages the sleeve. The article is pinned in place by its own weight in a manner which avoids making or needing holes in the sleeve, while concealing of the mounting apparatus. The mounting bracket engages the wall by adhesive or fasteners, or alternatively is suspended from a wall mounted rod from above. Optionally, an integral motion detector operates an alarm.
US08844880B1 Two-place, collective pitch and throttle control
A heliplane operates with a fixed wing at high velocities, and particularly at high advance ratios, while using a rotary wing maintained in motion at all speeds. At high advance ratios, the rotor wing eventually may be rotated primarily to maintain its stability, rather than depending upon the majority of lift. Meanwhile, a collective pitch control is provided and located between pilot and copilot. A single control provides control of both collective pitch and throttle by both pilots. One pilot will have to operate the control with the left hand, while the other may use their right hand. Nevertheless, both throttles push away from the pilot, regardless of which one is in control of the aircraft, while a single collective lever is relied upon.
US08844878B2 High lift system for an aircraft
A high lift system for an aircraft includes: a main wing, a flap disposed on the main wing of the aircraft that can be adjusted between a retracted position and several extended positions relative to the main wing by way of a flap actuating mechanism and a drive device, a carrier part disposed on the main wing to which the flap actuating mechanism is coupled and relative to which the flap actuating mechanism for adjusting the flap can be moved, where the carrier part is disposed on the main wing by way of a bearing device including an adjusting device with which the orientation of the carrier part relative to the orientation of the main wing can be adjusted.
US08844876B2 Simplified reusable module for launcher
A recoverable module for a propulsion module configured to launch a craft into space, the recoverable module including a central body, a propulsion system configured to launch the craft, systems for commanding and controlling the propulsion system, at least one propulsion engine in subsonic flight, lift surfaces for the subsonic flight and landing gear, the lift surface including two substantially flat wings fixed with respect to the central body, arranged on either side of the central body of the module, and a stabilizer mounted articulated for rotation on a downstream end of each wing, each stabilizer including at least one pair of lower wing surface and upper wing surface flaps mounted articulated on the stabilizer or any other flap fulfilling a dynamic function.
US08844870B2 Fuselage segment, and method for the production of a fuselage segment
A fuselage segment of an aircraft fuselage is provided with an outer skin and an inner skin that are spaced apart from one another by a core, wherein conduits for system installations are integrated into the core, as well as a method for manufacturing such a fuselage segment.
US08844869B2 Aircraft structural assembly and associated assembling method
An assembly includes a structural wall and a composite wall extending in the extension of the structural wall and defining a second section positioned facing a first section of the wall. The assembly includes an elongated traction element received in a first passage made in the structural wall, the first passage opening out into the first section and into a cell made in the structural wall. The composite wall defines a second passage opening out into the second section and receiving the elongated element. The assembly includes a locking member added onto the elongated element. The composite wall delimits an access cavity connecting an outer surface of the composite wall to the second passage. The locking member is received into the access cavity.
US08844867B2 Baggage compartment for an aircraft and aircraft having the baggage compartment
A baggage compartment for an aircraft is provided. The compartment has a housing and a baggage holder swivel-mounted in the housing. The baggage holder is moveable from a closed position into an open position with a first swivel movement to open the baggage. The baggage holder is moveable from the open position into the closed position with a second swivel movement to close the baggage. The compartment also has a swiveling device for moving the baggage holder into the open or closed position by performing the first or second swivel movement.
US08844866B2 Assemblies for external attachment of airborne sensor pods to an aircraft fuselage
Sensor pod attachment assemblies are provided for attaching a sensor pod containing airborne sensor equipment to an aircraft fuselage. The sensor pod assemblies may include fore and aft pairs of attachment pylon assemblies each having a lower end attached to the aircraft fuselage and an upper end attached to the sensor pod. The fore pair of attachment pylon assemblies can include port and starboard pylon structures, and a cross-support base connected to upper ends of the port and starboard pylon structures. The aft pair of attachment pylon assemblies may include a lengthwise adjustable spar assembly.
US08844864B2 Main landing gear with rigid rear stay
A main landing gear assembly for an aircraft comprising: an elongate beam pivotally coupled about its longitudinal axis to the aircraft such that the axis of rotation of the elongate beam is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aircraft fuselage; a shock strut pivotally coupled at a first end to the elongate beam and coupled at a second end to a wheel assembly; a folding forward stay pivotally coupled at a first end to the elongate beam and pivotally coupled at a second end to the shock strut; and a rigid rear stay pivotally coupled at a first end to the aircraft and pivotally coupled at a second end to the shock strut, the rigid rear stay being arranged to restrain the path of the shock strut when moving between a deployed and a retracted position such that the wheel assembly is located forward and inboard in the retracted position in comparison with its location in the deployed position.
US08844860B2 Foldable rise and stare vehicle
A Foldable Rise and Stare Vehicle with a single engine assembly that contains a pair of inline counter-rotating propellers. Two inline counter-rotating engines are directly connected to the propellers. Gimbal mounting the engine assembly permits thrust to be directed forward to back and left to right to control the vehicle position in the horizontal plane, when hovering. Varying the relative engine speeds controls yaw. The Foldable Rise and Stare Vehicle is adaptable as an unmanned vehicle.The vehicle collapses into a flat assembly similar to a foldable beach chair, allowing for convenient transportation.
US08844850B2 Dynamic self-cleaning downhole debris reducer
A debris reducer for reducing debris within a fluid flow line having a lower screen that is secured within the flow line, the lower screen having a lower screen cage with a lower cutting portion. A debris reducer element is retained within the flow line and is moveably disposed with respect to the lower screen. The debris reducer element has an upper screen cage with an upper cutting portion. The upper and lower screen cages overlap and move the upper and lower cutting portions with respect to each other to reduce debris within fluid flowing through the flow line.
US08844845B2 Volume adjustable blow gun
A blow gun includes a body with a top path and a bottom path, and a volume adjustment device is installed between the top and bottom paths. The volume adjustment device is in contact with a press rod which has one end pivotably connected to the body. The opening of the press rod is controlled by operation of the volume adjustment device so as to change the volume of the pressurized air. The press rod can also be locked at a position so that it is not activated unintentionally.
US08844844B2 Misting nozzle
A misting nozzle includes a body having a hole centrally defined therein and a flange radially extending therefrom to divide the body into a connecting section and a mounting section. At least two ditches are longitudinally and equally defined in the mounting section, and each laterally communicates with the hole. A distal end of the smooth portion is formed with an abutment and a round recess centrally defined in the abutment. At least two grooves are respectively equally defined in the abutment, wherein each groove is defined along a corresponding one of the tangents of the round recess and has two opposite ends respectively communicating with the round recess and a corresponding one of the ditches. A cap is airtightly mounted onto the mounting section of the body. A funnel-shaped hole is defined in a bottom of the cavity and communicates with the recess.
US08844843B2 Spray button
A spray button which is capable of spraying a content widely and decreasing the diameter of a sprayed particle. In the spray button comprising a spray button body and a nozzle body and having a rotation chamber, a spray orifice, and a plurality of spray grooves, assuming a diameter of the rotation chamber to be (D), a diameter of the spray orifice to be (Da), a width of a connection portion with the spray grooves and the rotation chamber to be (Dd), and a length from a stem-side sidewall of the nozzle body to a tip of the spray orifice to be (L), the relationships of D/Da>1, D/Dd≧5, D/L≧3 are satisfied.
US08844839B1 Sprinkler donut and method of making
An accelerated cure method for making a strong, high durometer, reduced brittleness hydrated sprinkler protection device shaped like a donut by mixing water with a dry mixture of sand; Portland cement; pigment; and polypropylene homopolymer fibers.
US08844835B2 Method and system for reliably detecting structure and water system leaks
A method and system for reliably detecting structure and water system leaks incorporates motion-sensing for determining whether there is activity in a building is occupied and measures humidity of the inside of the building. If there is no activity in the building, and an unexpected level of humidity or sudden change in humidity is detected, an alarm is generated and the building water system can be disabled by an electrically controlled valve. Current consumed by water-consuming and/or water vapor generating appliances can be detected and used to qualify the generating of an alarm or interruption of the water system, so that false alarms are not generated and the water supply is not interrupted due to operation of those appliances.
US08844832B2 Production process of non-contact information recording medium
The non-contact information recording medium is made by forming the antenna circuit and connecting it to the IC module through connection terminals at the same time. This provides a high degree of freedom of patterning of the antenna circuit. The antenna circuit is formed on a recording substrate, in which an IC module has been embedded. A foil-bonding resin layer is formed on the connection terminals of the recording substrate, with a toner containing a binder resin by an electrophotographic method. Then a conductive foil is brought into contact with the foil-bonding resin layer to bond the foil to the resin layer, to connect the antenna circuit to the connection terminals and form the antenna circuit composed of the conductive foil.
US08844826B2 Integrated circuit transponder, method of producing an integrated circuit and method of producing a transponder
In a method of producing an integrated circuit (1, 91, 131) for a transponder (2, 112) a photoresist layer (11) is applied on a first surface (8) of a semiconductor device (3). A patterned mask (14, 94) is generated by lithographically patterning the photoresist layer (11), so that the photoresist layer (11) comprises at least one first via (12, 13). The patterned mask (14, 94) comprises a second surface (17) facing away from the first surface (8). The first via (12, 13) is filled with a first bump (15, 16) by depositing the first bump (12, 13) on the first surface (8). A conductive structure (18, 19, 98, 99, 132) is formed on the second surface (17) of the patterned mask (14, 94). The conductive structure (18, 19, 98, 99, 132) is electrically connected to the first bump (15, 16).
US08844821B2 Multi-layer barcode for print on demand document management
A document management method, including the steps of gathering data of a multi-page document for a first layer barcode, encoding the gathered data for the first layer barcode, writing the first layer barcode on at least one page of the document, deriving key information of the document from the gathered data; and for at least one other page of the document, gathering data of the at least one other page for a second layer barcode, encoding key information of the document and the data of the at least one other page for the second layer barcode, and writing the second layer barcode on the at least one other page of the document, such that the at least one other page of the document has its respective second layer barcode.
US08844820B2 Multi-directional optical reader for a patient support
A patient support apparatus includes a patient support, a multi-directional optical reader, and a control system. The multi-directional optical reader is secured to the patient support and configured to detect a first indicia having a predetermined pattern. The control system includes a processor in communication with the multi-directional optical reader, a transmitter in communication with the processor, and a memory in communication with the processor. The memory stores an identifier associated with the patient support apparatus. The processor receives a signal from the multi-directional optical reader indicative of data from the first indicia detected by the multi-directional optical detector. In response to receiving the signal, the processor performs a set of instructions. The set of instructions performed by the processor include (i) linking the data from the first indicia with the identifier, and (ii) communicating the linked data from the first indicia and identifier to a network external to the patient support apparatus.
US08844814B2 Radio frequency identification automatic detecting system with antenna net
A radio frequency identification automatic detecting system with an antenna net includes a radio frequency identification module, an enhancing surface wave-guide coaxial cable structure including a coaxial cable having at least one aperture region without an outer conducting layer, a receiving apparatus having a plurality of receiving spaces and a plurality of extension wires disposed adjacent to the receiving spaces and coupled or connected to the outer conducting layer of the coaxial cable. The electromagnetic field is formed in nearby regions adjacent to the receiving spaces because the electromagnetic wave caused by the current generated from the radio frequency identification module is transmitted by the outer conducting layer and extension wires. The radio frequency identification electronic tag on the object is triggered automatically when the object is moved toward or moved out from the respective receiving space such that the automatic detecting effect is achieved.
US08844811B1 System and method for controlling locks
A system and method for opening locks, primarily door locks like the locks on hotel room doors using a handheld mobile device and a QR code. A mobile user can be provided with a QR code either via email or from a mobile phone application (App.). The QRC will be their room key. The handheld mobile device will display the QRC on its display. A QRC scanner is connected to the door lock through a processor that can decode the QRC. The processor sends a command to the door lock to open when the proper QRC is decoded.
US08844809B2 Check cashing banking system
A card actuated automated banking machine (152, 198, 200) includes a plurality of transaction function devices. The transaction function devices include a card reader (170), a printer (174), a bill dispenser (176), a display (182), a check imaging device (186), and at least one processor (190). The machine is operative, responsive to receiving a check and certification data, to dispense cash in exchange for the check. The person presenting the check to the machine need not provide user identifying inputs through input devices of the machine in order to receive cash for the check. Furthermore, prior to accepting the check as a payment, the person can communicate with at least one computer (204) through at least one consumer interface device (208) to verify that the check is payable for the check amount.
US08844808B2 Cash till load cell
A cash till having a drawer (2) with a plurality of compartments (4) for storing coins, notes or vouchers. Each compartment (4) has an associated load cell (6), which produces a signal that is proportional to the weight of the compartment contents. The signal is provided to a monitoring apparatus (10) that takes readings from the load cell (6) while the till drawer (2) is closed. If a preceding reading is within a threshold amount of the current reading, then the preceding reading is stored as a verified value. The method removes jitter and drift in the signals produced by the load cells (6) of the cash till.
US08844801B2 Identification and trace of items within an assembly or manufacturing process
An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for identifying and tracing of items within an assembly or manufacturing process. An individual item identifier (“ID”) is assigned to an item during one or more of an initial assembly step and a manufacturing step. A surface of the item is read to determine a first surface profile of the item which is associated with the individual item ID. The first surface profile and the individual item ID are stored in a database. The surface of the item is read to determine a second surface profile of the item after each manufacturing or assembling process step in which the surface of the item is manipulated. The second surface profile is compared with the first surface profile and the second surface profile is associated with the individual item ID in response to a mismatch between the first surface profile and the second surface profile.
US08844799B2 Cup insulating insert and method
An cup insulating insert is provided that is adapted for placement between a container and an outer base sheet. The insert includes a plurality of spaced-apart fingers for separating the container from the base sheet and creating an air gap therebetween. The insert has void spaces or air gaps between the fingers that are sized such that, when a plurality of inserts are formed from a single sheet, the fingers of one insert are formed from the void spaces of an adjacent insert. Multiple inserts can be formed from a single sheet of recyclable material with substantially no waste material being created.
US08844798B2 Dual reclosable dispenser carton
A dispenser carton having more than one dispenser opening, permitting two different modes of access to products or articles contained within the carton. Preferably, the dispenser openings are oriented to permit the optimal orientation of products for dispensing from each of the dispenser openings. In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, separate and independent from the first aspect yet complementary thereto if desired, the dispenser openings are provided to permit loading of articles therein in an oriented manner corresponding to automated carton-loading equipment and optionally also to permit dispensing through at least one of the openings in a desired dispensing orientation.
US08844794B2 Jig for welded bulkhead fitting
Jig (10, 10′, 10″) for welded bulkhead fitting (18) to a steel material which is to be penetrated by the fitting, said jig comprising a foot (11), a holder (14) for the fitting, a connecting piece (13) between the foot and the holder. The foot (11) is provided with an on and off switchable magnet (12) and the holder (14) is height adjustable and replaceable. The angle between the holder (14) and the foot (11) is preferably adjustable.
US08844793B2 Reducing formation of oxide on solder
In certain embodiments, a system includes a deposition system and a plasma/bonding system. The deposition system deposits a solder outwardly from a substrate of a number of substrates. The plasma/bonding system comprises a plasma system configured to plasma clean the substrate and a bonding system configured to bond the substrates. The plasma/bonding system at least reduces reoxidation of the solder. In certain embodiments, a method comprises depositing solder outwardly from a substrate, removing metal oxide from the substrate, and depositing a capping layer outwardly from the substrate to at least reduce reoxidation of the solder.
US08844791B2 Electrical surgical instrument with optimal tissue compression
A surgical device, comprising a tissue compression device having a pair of opposing compression surfaces, a mechanical binary-output electrical switch having open and closed electrical switching states initiated and changed solely by mechanical movements, and an adjustable biasing device mechanically coupled to the switch and retaining the switch in one of the switching states until a force at least as great as a force imposed by the biasing device is imparted to the switch, wherein the switch is disposed in line with the tissue compression device to cause a proportional amount of force that is placed upon compressed tissue disposed between the opposing compression surfaces to be placed upon the switch, and the biasing device is set to an amount of force that is proportional to an optimal tissue compression force of the compressed tissue when disposed between the opposing compression surfaces.
US08844790B2 Anvil-mounted dissecting tip for surgical stapling device
A surgical stapling device including a handle assembly, an endoscopic portion and an end effector is disclosed. The endoscopic portion extends distally from the handle assembly and defines a first longitudinal axis. The end effector defines a second longitudinal axis and includes an anvil assembly and a cartridge assembly. The anvil assembly is supported adjacent a distal end of the endoscopic portion and includes a dissecting tip extending therefrom. The cartridge assembly is pivotably mounted adjacent the distal end of the endoscopic portion. The cartridge assembly is mounted for pivotal movement in relation to the anvil assembly between open and approximated positions.
US08844789B2 Automated end effector component reloading system for use with a robotic system
A surgical instrument. The surgical instrument includes an end effector that comprises a staple channel and an anvil that is movably translatable relative to the staple channel. A tool mounting portion is configured to interface with a robotic system and operably communicate with the end effector. The instrument further includes a first sensor that has an output that represents a first condition of a portion of the robotic system. A second sensor has an output that represents a position of the anvil. A third sensor has an output that represents a position of a reciprocating knife within the end effector. An externally accessible memory device communicates with the first, second and third sensors.
US08844787B2 Fastener driving tool
A spring-type fastener driving tool includes a plunger having a blade that drives in fasteners, a spring that urges the plunger downwards and is capable of being compressed upwards, a spring compression mechanism unit that includes a drum that causes the plunger to move in a compression direction of the spring based on rotational force of a motor, a reduction mechanism unit, and a one-way clutch than prohibits reverse rotation of the motor. Reverse rotation of the drum due to the urging force of the spring is prevented by providing the one-way clutch between an input side rotating shaft of the reduction mechanism unit and a rotation output shaft of the motor.
US08844783B2 Vertical core slot dispenser and adapter for a bin
A vertical core slot dispenser supports a roll of film bags wound on a hollow central core. An adapter for a bin provides mounting for at least one of the dispensers. An optional bracket has fixtures to connect lower portions of the platforms to a mounting system. A core pin has first and second ends, fits slidably within the central core and has at least one notch that extends across one of the ends. First and second guide slots are sized, shaped and located to fit slidably about the first and second ends of the core pin. At least one guide rail is located between outer edges of the guide slots. The rail is sized and shaped to slidably engage and retain the at least one notch in the core pin. At least one bag stream guide, pair of side constraints and snagging hook are attached to the bag dispenser.
US08844780B2 Convertible strap
A strap for bearing the load of an object is disclosed. The strap includes a loop assembly rotatably attached to each end of a connector. Each loop assembly is a continuous loop of material, or two or more pieces of material joined together. The connector allows the strap to be placed on the shoulder of a user when transporting the object in a single-shoulder configuration. Each loop is connected to an object at a point opposite the elongated connector by an attachment having an aperture, thereby allowing the loop to move freely therethrough. The strap converts from a single-shoulder configuration to a dual-shoulder configuration, without needing to disconnect the strap from the object or removing the strap from the user, by the user extending an arm through each of the loops thereby transitioning the load of the object from the connector on one shoulder to a loop on each shoulder.
US08844779B2 Storage apparatus for vehicle
A storage apparatus for a vehicle may include a rear bumper having a back beam mounted under an inner space thereof, a storage case provided in a space above the rear bumper and drawn-out/drawn-in by being sled to the outside in the state in which a load is supported by the top of the back beam, and a bumper door rotatably provided on an end of the storage case so as to open and close the storage case and formed so that a portion exposed to the outside coincides with an outer surface of the rear bumper.
US08844773B2 Water reservoir provided with a volute pump cavity and a motor support
A booster pump for a coffee beverage dispenser's water inlet source, in one example, a “city water” inlet. A chamber is formed which has the diluent/water inlet and a bottom surface and a top end covered by a removable lid. The removable lid has a hole large enough for a motor to be partially seated within the chamber and the motor has a shaft with supports that is connected to a cover plate that has through holes, and a rotor below the cover plate with a set of radially oriented vanes. The hole in the lid is bigger than the cross section of the cover plate and so the motor, shaft, supports, rotors and cover plate can be pulled out as desired for easier maintenance. When the motor is seated properly in the hole of the lid, the cover plate seats properly along the edge of a cylindrically shaped pump cavity. The cover plate and the edge form a seal. The inlet for the pump cavity has a smaller cross section than its outlet and the pump cavity can have a deflection body. The outlet for the diluent or water leads to the coffee beverage dispenser device.
US08844765B2 Aerosol spray texture apparatus for a particulate containing material
An outlet assembly for an aerosol assembly comprises a valve assembly and a metering member. The valve assembly comprises a valve housing, a valve stem defining a stem inlet and a stem outlet, a valve spring, and a valve seal. Movement of the valve stem from a first stem position to an intermediate stem position disengages the valve stem from the valve seal such that fluid is allowed to flow into the stem inlet and out of the stem outlet. The valve stem displaces the metering member from a first metering position to a second metering position as the valve stem moves from the first stem position to the intermediate stem position. Movement of the valve stem causes the valve stem to move relative to the metering member such that the metering member covers the stem inlet to prevent flow of fluid into the stem inlet and out of the stem outlet. The spring member displaces the valve stem such that the valve stem carries the metering member while the metering member covers the stem inlet to prevent flow of fluid into the stem inlet and out of the stem outlet.
US08844761B2 Resealable beverage containers and methods of making same
Resealable beverage containers include caps that are twisted to impart translational motion of the cap to push a tear panel into the container. Cam elements are used to convert rotational movement to translational movement. The caps are preferably made of molded plastic material, and include cam elements formed on the sidewalls of the caps that engage cam followers or projections formed on the inner cylindrical surface of a socket which is formed in the lid of the beverage container. Methods of manufacturing resealable beverage containers avoid the need to form rivets and to attach pull tabs, thus saving costs and making the beverage containers more easily recycled.
US08844760B2 Storage vessel for compressed fluids
A vessel for storing pressurized gas. The storage vessel may be manufactured in a variety of predetermined shapes. Plural frame members are interconnected with each other, collectively forming a lattice frame. A network of internal supports is disposed within the interior of the lattice frame, the internal supports being made of a carbon-reinforced composite material. The storage vessel has an outer shell made up of layers of carbon-reinforced composite material sheets enveloping the exterior of the lattice frame.
US08844758B1 Interlocking assembly of containers, closures, holding apparatus and methodology
A comprehensive storage and packaging system solution includes designs for container, closure, and holding apparatus. Container, closure and holding apparatus are interlocked together in mated combinations with interlocking connectors at connection hubs. This storage and packaging system includes design and methodology for secure and convenient collection, sorting, storage, presentation, and flexible transport of reclosable containers and the container's content. A plurality of container portability and secure transport is enhanced with the implementation of interlocking connection hubs. A single closed container joins into an interlocking container assembly at connection hubs. Container assemblies range from a single column, row or tube to an entire three dimensional spatial interlocking matrix. Use of the connection hubs with holding apparatus devices such as tote trays and carousel disks provide capabilities for the integration of containers, container assemblies, and holding apparatus or devices within this storage system solution. Modular design of holding apparatus provides for the controlled, organized, and flexible growth of this storage system solution. Together, functionally integrated containers, closures, and holding apparatus for this storage system solution provide for a well organized, convenient, portable, and user reconfigurable collection and worksite presentation of container contents including nuts, bolts, electrical connectors, tooling, hardware, and other collectables.
US08844756B2 Portable consumables organizer
The present invention is generally related containers for storing and organizing consumable and non-consumable goods.
US08844753B2 Rigid outer container for aseptic fluid transport
The present invention relates to the storage and transportation of fluids, and more particularly to a rigid outer container for aseptic transport of pharmaceutical fluids. In one embodiment, a system for aseptic storage and/or transport of a fluid includes a rigid outer container including a front wall and a back wall, a main cavity inside the outer container, and an inner wall dividing the main cavity into first and second compartments. The first compartment is located between the front wall and the inner wall, and the second compartment is located between the inner wall and the back wall. The second compartment may carry a biocontainer, and ancillary equipment for the biocontainer may be stored in the first compartment.
US08844749B2 Fastening devices for explosion-proof enclosures
A fastening device for fastening a cover to a body of an explosion-proof enclosure can include a bracket having a back side mechanically coupled to a bottom side at a first angle and to a top side at a second angle, where the top side includes an engagement portion, where the first angle is substantially parallel to an under side of the body flange, and where the second angle is substantially parallel to a top side of the cover flange. The fastening device can also include a cam fixedly coupled to an outer surface of the cover flange and hingedly coupled to the engagement portion. The fastening device can further include a lever fixedly coupled to the cam and having a closed position and an open position.
US08844748B2 Clamshell closure for metal drum
Closure ring to retain a lid in contact with a metal drum in central C-section conforming to the contact area between a lid and the rim of a drum and further having a radially inwardly directed flange and a vertically downwardly directed flange attached to the opposite ends of the C-section. The additional flanges reinforce the top of the drum by reducing deformation when the drum is dropped and maintain the lid in contact with the drum. The invention is particularly valuable in transportation and storage of fissile material.
US08844745B2 Dispenser with a wide lid-activation button having a stabilizing rib
A lid structure for use with a container for storing personal care products is disclosed. The lid structure includes a lid-activation button that when pressed allows the lid top to rotate about the lid base giving a consumer access to the contents of the container. Additionally, the lid-activation button functions so that the lid top is released independent of where the lid-activation button is pressed by the consumer. To create better and more consistent opening of the lid top portion, an inner longitudinal edge of the lid-activation button may be attached to the lid bottom via a living hinge that is formed integrally with the lid base. A strengthening rib is attached to the living hinge that keeps the main body side of the living hinge immobile and encourages the button side of the living hinge to flex when the lid-activation button is depressed.
US08844743B2 Container cap
A compressible container (200) has a cap (100) configured to engage therewith. The cap (100) includes a first valve (150), preferably in the form of first and second disks (112,120), one above another, each disk having at least one hole (113,122) therethrough. The disks are rotatable with respect to one another The holes (113,122) of the first and second disks (112,120) align in a first position to create channel therethrough and misalign in the second position to close the channel. The cap (100) may also include a second valve (130) connected to the channel. The second valve (130) may comprise a ball (134) inside a conic section tube (132). The ball (134) is designed to float on the liquid (300) so that any liquid (300) attempting to exit the container cap (100) will be prevented from doing so as the second valve (130) will be closed when the liquid forces the ball (134) into engagement with the conic section tube (132).
US08844742B2 Beverage container
A drinking mouth portion pointing upward is provided on a plug body of a container main body having a sealed structure. A down-pointing beverage cylindrical member is built into the container main body and has a front edge side thereof communicated with the drinking mouth portion. Provided inside a fluid passage of the beverage cylindrical member is a valve movable in accordance with a pressure difference therein. The valve is not manually opened and closed, but reacts to a suction force in the fluid passage. An up-pointing cut-out section is provided on a lower edge of the beverage cylindrical member, thus allowing one to drink up a content fluid remaining in an inner bottom section. Therefore, a relatively small number of additional parts are needed to address the spewing of a content fluid and the occurrence of a residual liquid at the time of opening the drinking mouth portion.
US08844733B2 Plate stand
An inventive dish support assembly utilizes slots in a pair of panels to support dinnerware including a plate or dish. The dish support assembly may include a third member support which supports the pair of panels pivotably. The third member support may be supported by the pair of panels and another support structure. A set of equations define the most preferable shapes of the slots including an upper curved surface opposite a lower generally straighter surface with consideration of several sources of relaxation from a geometric description of the most preferable shapes. To insure a conforming capture of the supported structures, the respective slots or cut-outs may be covered with a resilient covering.
US08844731B2 System for performing a magnetic separation procedure
Methods, systems, and apparatus are provided for automated isolation of selected analytes, to which magnetically-responsive solid supports are bound, from other components of a sample. An apparatus for performing an automated magnetic separation procedure includes a mechanism for effecting linear movement of a magnet between operative and non-operative positions with respect to a receptacle device. A receptacle holding station within which a receptacle device may be temporarily stored prior to moving the receptacle to the apparatus for performing magnetic separation includes magnets for applying a magnetic field to the receptacle device held therein, thereby drawing at least a proton of the magnetically-responsive solid supports out of suspension before the receptacle device is moved to the magnetic separation station. An automated receptacle transport mechanism moves the receptacle devices between the apparatus for performing magnetic separation and the receptacle holding station.
US08844730B2 Device and method for magnetic separation of a fluid
A device for the magnetic separation of a fluid including first particles to be separated of magnetic or magnetizable material and second particles of non-magnetic or non-magnetizable material may include at least two magnet arrangements for generating a magnetic induction B, which are arranged in line with one another with regard to a center axis M, wherein neighboring magnet arrangements have an opposing pole arrangement and are arranged at a distance d from each other for the generation of a cusp field. The device may also include at least one conveying line for transporting the fluid, the line having a longitudinal axis extending, at least in the region of the magnet arrangements, on a plane aligned perpendicularly in relation to the center axis M between neighboring magnet arrangements. The conveying line(s) may have at least one branch downstream of the center axis M, along the transporting direction of the fluid.
US08844728B2 Shipping and display container and blank for forming same
A container formed from a blank of sheet material includes, in an exemplary embodiment, opposing side walls, a front end wall, a back end wall, a top wall, and a bottom wall. An opening lip extends from a portion of the bottom of the front wall. Perforation lines extend diagonally from each end of the lip. Each perforation line extends to a side wall. Each side wall includes a perforation line extending from one of the front wall perforation lines to the upper corner of the sidewall adjacent the back end wall. Access holes are located in each side wall adjacent to the side wall perforation line. Another perforation line extends the width of the back end wall and intersects each of the perforation lines of the side walls.
US08844723B2 Child resistant package having pivoting component
A multi-layered blister package includes a first panel having at least one blister pocket receiving aperture defined therein, wherein a blister pocket protrudes through the at least one blister pocket receiving aperture and retains an article therein. A second panel has at least one exit aperture defined therein, wherein the at least one exit aperture aligns with the at least one blister pocket receiving aperture when the first panel is disposed over the second panel. A third panel having at least one intermediate aperture defined therein, wherein the at least one intermediate aperture aligns with and is between the at least one exit aperture and the at least one blister pocket receiving aperture when the third panel is pivoted to a first position.
US08844713B2 Conveyor belt link with wear resistance features
A conveyor belt is provided that includes a link having a leg formed of a link leg material, wherein the leg includes an outer link surface configured to face the drive surface, the link leg being configured to receive a rod. The conveyor belt may include an aperture extending through the leg, wherein the rod is disposed within the aperture. Also, the conveyor belt may include a first weld that attaches the free end of the rod to the outer link surface, the first weld comprising a first weld material and a second weld made of a second weld material, wherein the second weld covers at least a portion of the first weld and forms an outermost surface of the conveyor belt. The second weld material may be different from the first weld material, and may be more resistant to wear than the first weld material.
US08844712B2 Link or a conveyor chain, a conveyor chain made up of said links and a method for operation of said conveyor chain
A conveyor chain link a main body, a top plate to which a handling product or part thereof is restable thereupon; said main body having a front portion and a rear portion; said front portion and rear portion having means to be interconnected such that one link can be connectable to another in order for the establishment of a multi-linked conveyor chain; a first guide member arrangement including a pair of rotably-supported laterally extending on opposing sides of an underneath side of said top plate, adapted to roll in the direction of movement of said conveyor chain, wherein said rollers of the first guide member arrangement are adapted to rest and rotate along a corresponding top face of a wear strip as part of a conveyor assembly support structure for the conveyor chain; a second guide member arrangement, including two rotably-supportable guide members on opposing sides of said main body, rotably about a longitudinal axis, perpendicular to the top plate, wherein the peripheral edge of the respective guide members are adapted to engage a side edge of a wear strip face of the conveyor support assembly or a similar such configured structure arrangement of said conveyor support assembly; a third guide member arrangement, including a roller member adapted to rest and rotate upon a conveyor bed of the conveyor assembly support or other similar structure of the conveyor support assembly, wherein said roller of the third guide member arrangement is laterally rotatably-supported by an axis substantially in parallel to the top plate; such that the first, second and third guide member arrangements can work independently or in combination to reduce frictional force between the contact positions of the conveyor chain with the conveyor chain support assembly, resulting in a reduced level of power required to drive the conveyor chain upon the conveyor support assembly during operation, along with reduced wear and tear of the link against the conveyor support assembly.
US08844711B2 Chain wheel arrangement for mining machines
A chain wheel arrangement for chain drives of mining machines, with a chain wheel shaft, with a chain wheel, with bearing shells receiving bearings for the chain wheel shaft, with a chain wheel-side sliding ring seal and with a bearing-side sliding ring seal. In order to improve the service life of the chain wheel arrangement, at least one of the bearings, preferably that of the movable bearing system, is arranged in a bearing bush which is arranged between the bearing shell and outer bearing ring and received in the bearing shell in an axially displaceable manner. The additional bearing bush allows the necessary gap between the rotating parts and the non-co-rotating, bearing shell-side parts to remain substantially constant and to this extent to become independent of the bearing play of the respective bearings.
US08844710B2 Conveyor belt and pipe conveyor
Provided is a conveyor belt (2) that includes a body rubber (21) extending in a longitudinal direction of the belt; a plurality of tension bodies (22) that extend in the longitudinal direction of the belt, are disposed in a width direction of the belt, and are embedded in the body rubber (21); and a reinforcement layer (23) that extends in the longitudinal direction of the belt and is embedded in at least one of portions within the body rubber (21), which is located between the tension bodies (22) and each of top surface and bottom surfaces of the body rubber (21), wherein the reinforcement layer (23) is formed in which a plurality of fabric members (24) extending in the longitudinal direction of the belt are continuously provided in the width direction of the belt, the side end sections (24a) of the fabric members (24) among the fabric members (24), which are adjacent to each other in the width direction of the belt are connected to each other to form a fabric joint section (25), and the fabric joint section (25) is disposed on the inner side in the width direction of the belt rather than the both side end sections in the body rubber (21), and is disposed on an intermediate section (21c) that includes the center in the width direction of the belt.
US08844706B2 Permanent magnet air heater
A permanent magnet air heater has a housing with an internal chamber accommodating an electric motor rotating a fan to move air through the housing. A non-ferrous member having bores for cylindrical magnets and a steel member with a copper plate secured to the steel member are rotated relative to each other by the motor whereby the magnetic field between the magnets and copper plate generates heat which is transferred to air in the housing moving through the housing by the fan.
US08844703B2 Locking apparatus for parking brake
A locking apparatus for a parking brake includes a parking lever, a parking lever spring applying a restoring force to the parking lever, a cylinder of which an oil hole is formed therein, a piston comprising a piston rod connected to the parking lever and a piston main body disposed within the cylinder, and the piston movable along length direction of the cylinder according to supplying or releasing of oil through the oil hole, a solenoid valve, a locking unit disposed within the cylinder for locking the piston when the solenoid valve is supplied electric power and for locking the piston when the solenoid valve is not supplied electric power and an emergency parking device which is connected to the locking unit and selectively forcibly moves the locking unit.
US08844701B2 Rotational coupling device with improved drive key retention structure
A rotational coupling device for use as a clutch and/or brake is provided with improved retention of a drive key during shipping, assembly, and operation of the device. The device includes a rotor disposed about an input shaft. The input shaft is disposed about a rotational axis and the rotor and input shaft define opposed keyways. A key is disposed in the keyways and rotatably couples the rotor and input shaft. An armature is disposed about the axis and coupled to an output member and configured for selective engagement with the rotor. In one embodiment, the key and a support member in the device are shaped in a complementary fashion to limit radial and axial movement of the key. In another embodiment, an axial end of the key or rotor is deformed to axially align the axial ends of the key and rotor and limit axial movement of the key.
US08844697B2 Clutches
A clutch assembly is disclosed having a driving plate arranged in communication with a thermal transfer medium for use in cooling the driving plate. The disclosed thermal transfer medium can include at least one conductive brush that is mounted with the driving plate and arranged between the driving plate and a separate cooled part of the clutch assembly for cooling the driving plate. The brush may also be resiliently biased for contact with the cooled part of the clutch assembly so that it brushes against it.
US08844693B2 Coupling assembly having an overrun mode and ratcheting reverse strut or radial ratchet for use therein
A coupling assembly having an overrun mode and a ratcheting reverse strut or radial ratchet for use in the assembly are provided. The size and shape of the strut or ratchet and corresponding notches (i.e. geometry) of a notch plate of the assembly are specifically configured so that the strut or ratchet “ratchets” during the overrun condition. The strut or ratchet will not engage the notch plate until relative notch plate speed drops below a predetermined speed.
US08844691B2 Three-pass torque converters
A torque converter includes a cover for receiving torque from a prime mover, an impeller fixed to the cover to form a housing for the torque converter, a turbine disposed in the housing for receiving torque from the impeller, and a clutch backing plate fixed to the housing and arranged to receive a force, in an axial direction, from the turbine during operation of the torque converter. In some example embodiments, the turbine includes a thrust plate for thrust engagement with the clutch backing plate. In an example embodiment, the turbine includes a turbine shell and the thrust plate is attached to the turbine shell.
US08844689B2 Carry-on wheeled luggage for photographic equipment
The invention provides a carry-on wheeled luggage (1) for photographic equipment that has an interior compartment (80) deep enough to accommodate a large article of photographic equipment such as at least a 400 mm 2.8 f-stop aperture telephoto lens.
US08844682B2 Electromechanical aircraft brake with tiltable actuators
The invention relates to an electromechanical brake, in particular for aircraft, the brake comprising a support carrying at least one electromechanical actuator comprising a pusher that is axially displaceable towards friction elements in order to apply a braking force to the friction elements, selectively, wherein the actuator is mounted on the support via a connection member allowing at least a portion of the actuator carrying the pusher to tilt angularly.
US08844681B2 Device for oil or fluid grease lubrication
A device for oil or fluid grease lubrication, including a reservoir able to house a determined quantity of lubricant, a pump arranged to draw the lubricant from the reservoir and to feed it under pressure to a delivery port to which a lubricant distribution pipe can be connected, a control unit arranged to regulate the pump operation, and a sensor for sensing the lubricant level within the reservoir. The level sensor is an infrared sensor.
US08844679B2 Pump having venting and non-venting piston return
Apparatus and method for supplying lubricant to a plurality of lubrication sites. Embodiments include a pump with venting and non-venting piston return, a pump with stirrer and direct feed mechanism, a pump with CAN system and self-diagnostics, a pump with heated housing and reservoir and a pump with stepper motor and overdrive control.
US08844676B2 Optionally extendable, runged tire-mount platform device
A ladder-like access device is suited for securing to a tire of a vehicle by way of a strap, rope, chain, cable or similar structure. The device may include extendable legs to adapt its length to a range of wheel and tire sizes. A variety of structures, materials and construction methods are described and claimed.
US08844675B2 Portable ladder with a stand off device
A portable ladder has two stiles interconnected by rungs. The ladder is provided with a stand off device, including two stand off arm assemblies, each being telescopically inserted into a receiving space. Each stand off arm assembly has a base part and a stand off arm interconnected by a hinge that allows the stand off arm to be pivoted between a position in alignment with the base part and an angled stand off position. The stand off arm assemblies are each configured such that—in extended position—the hinge is located outside the receiving space with the base part being located within said receiving space, and also such that—in retracted position—the base part, the hinge, as well as at least a portion of the stand off arm are located within the receiving space.
US08844674B2 Assault ladder
A dual-purpose assault ladder and bridging apparatus includes a right frame and a left frame both including upper and lower frame tubes. Assault steps are connected between the right and left frames. Spanning supports connect upper frame tubes. Truss brackets secure one end of an assault step to the frame elements. Assault step support tubes are located to support the assault steps. Bridging steps are connected between the right and left frames and the assault steps. A top portion is mounted at an oblique angle slanting the top portion to position the angled assault steps substantially parallel to the ground when the ladder is leaned against a wall.
US08844673B2 Muffler for internal combustion engine
A muffler for an internal combustion engine includes an outer shell, an inlet pipe, an outlet pipe, and at least one constricted part. The at least one constricted part is provided in at least one of the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe on an open side thereof opening toward an inside of the outer shell. The at least one constricted part has a cross-sectional area smaller than a cross-sectional area of the at least one of the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe, which is provided with the at least one constricted part.
US08844671B2 Apparatus for damping sound in the optical beam path of a microscope, and microscope having a corresponding apparatus
An apparatus for damping sound in the optical beam path of a microscope, having an acoustic insulation housing for encapsulating a sound-emitting component, preferably a rapidly moving or oscillating beam deflection means, in particular a resonantly oscillating mirror, the housing comprising at least one optical entrance/exit opening, is characterized in that the housing, preferably the opening of the housing, is embodied and/or configured in such a way that the sound otherwise emerging from the housing is largely extinguished by destructive interference without thereby influencing the optical beam. A microscope having a corresponding apparatus is furthermore claimed.
US08844669B2 Portal wheel end
A modular portal wheel end system for connection to a plurality of different axles for vehicles. The portal wheel end system includes a housing configure to be selectively coupled with any one of the plurality of different axles. A plurality of input gears are configured to be interchangeably connected to the housing about a first rotational axis. A plurality of output gears are configured to be interchangeably connected to the housing about a second rotational axis offset from the first rotational axis. Each of the gears having a different predetermined width along their respective axis. The housing includes an inner portion at least partially supporting the input and output gears and an outer ring coupled to the inner portion with the outer ring having a width corresponding to the predetermined width of the input and output gears to define a cavity surrounding the input and output gears.
US08844666B2 Motorcycle having evaporating fuel treatment apparatus
A motorcycle includes a vehicle body frame having a head pipe axially supporting a steering shaft and a main frame extending rearwardly and downwardly therefrom. A down tube extends downwardly. An internal combustion engine is supported by the vehicle body frame with a cylinder extending upward from a crankcase. A fuel tank is arranged on the upper side of the main frame. An air-intake apparatus is configured to supply air to the internal combustion engine wherein an evaporable fuel storage container is configured to store evaporating fuel generated in the fuel tank and supply the evaporating fuel to an air-intake apparatus when the internal combustion engine is in operation is arranged in a space on the rear side of an upper portion of the down tube, the lower side of the fuel tank, and on the front side or on the upper side of the cylinder of the internal engine.
US08844664B1 Powered snowboard
An apparatus for propelling a user over a surface. In one embodiment a rear located propulsion unit is elastically linked to a forward user platform, such as a snowboard, skis, or skateboard. Preferably, the elastic interconnection includes one or more springs.
US08844663B2 Twin engine for improving fuel efficiency and method of operating engine using the same
A twin engine improves fuel efficiency in a low-load section and generates sufficient output in a high-load section by selecting a specific bank or operating all of the banks in accordance with necessity of required load. The twin engine may include a plurality of engine banks that independently operates in a unit of a cylinder block equipped with a plurality of cylinders, transmissions that are provided at the same number of engine banks and disposed between output ends of engine banks, a power controller that selectively collects the power output from the output ends of transmissions and transmits the power to driving wheels, and a driving controller that controls the operations of the engine banks and the power controller, such that the engine banks are selectively or simultaneously operated in accordance with traveling conditions.
US08844661B2 Road vehicle with an operating device housed inside a door sill of the frame
A road vehicle having: a plurality of operating devices, and a frame comprising two door sills, which are oriented longitudinally, are arranged laterally on opposite sides of the frame, and have an internally hollow tubular shape, so that a seat is defined inside each door sill, in which at least one operating device is arranged inside at least one door sill in the corresponding seat.
US08844660B2 Hybrid working machine
A hybrid working machine includes an engine, an assist motor configured to assist the engine, a hydraulic pump driven by the engine, an electric power accumulating unit configured to feed the assist motor with electric power, an electric-discharge electric motor configured to perform power running with electric power of an electric power accumulator of the electric power accumulating unit, an electric-discharge hydraulic motor connected to the electric-discharge electric motor, and a hydraulic circuit configured to control driving of the electric-discharge hydraulic motor. The hydraulic circuit includes a circulation circuit configured to be connected to a hydraulic feed port and a hydraulic discharge port of the electric-discharge hydraulic motor and a selector valve configured to perform such switching as to connect the electric-discharge hydraulic motor to the circulation circuit at a time of performing an electric discharge operation.
US08844659B2 Motor vehicle with electric motor
A motor vehicle comprising an electric motor, at least one battery, and an electronic regulation unit connected to a potentiometer of the accelerator to regulate the power supply of the electric motor. The stator of the electric motor is rotatably mounted on two fixed supports joined to the frame of the vehicle, an axle shaft of a wheel is connected to the stator and the axle shaft of the other wheel is connected to the rotor. The vehicle additionally comprises a rotation reversing device to reverse the rotation of one of the two axle shafts of the wheels with respect to the rotation of the rotor or stator, respectively, an endothermic motor, an electric generator connected to the battery and a three way clutch to couple the endothermic motor to the generator and/or stator of the electric motor.
US08844657B2 Stand on mower with traction drive pedals
A stand on mower includes a left foot pedal and a right foot pedal. Each foot pedal is spaced from the other and is dimensioned to support one of the operator's feet. Each foot pedal is biased to a neutral position generally parallel to a horizontal surface of a foot platform located generally between or behind a pair of traction drive wheels. The left foot pedal and the right foot pedal pivot independently forwardly and rearwardly to forward and reverse traction drive positions, and are connected to a pair of wheel motors respectively that rotate each of the traction drive wheels in either forward or reverse based on the traction drive positions of the foot pedals.
US08844655B2 Drill string tooling joint
A joint connecting a pair of members rotatable about a common axis end to end includes a first member having a threaded end portion and a non-circular exterior surface rearwardly of the threaded end portion, a second member having a threaded socket wherein the threaded end portion of the second member can be engaged, and a non-circular exterior surface, a ground engagement sleeve having a non-circular profile on an inner surface thereof whereby the sleeve can be slidably mounted on the non-circular exterior profiles of the first and second members when such profiles are brought into alignment by rotation of one member relative to the other in a manner effective to pass torque from one member to the other by means of the non-circular profiles, a first pair of alignable holes in the sleeve and first member to receive a fastener to secure the sleeve to the first member and a hole in the second member penetrating the threaded socket and positioned to receive a fastener to secure the second member to a third member in place of the first member, the third member having a hole in a threaded end portion thereof alignable with the hole in the second member.
US08844654B2 Instrumented drill string element
A drill string element including an elongate tubular body delimiting an interior surface longitudinally including at least one portion of revolution and including a first hole provided in the elongate tubular body. That first hole includes a first end opening at the portion of revolution, and in a vicinity of the first end a longitudinal axis intersecting the interior surface at an intersection location. The longitudinal axis, in projection into a first plane passing through the central axis of the portion of revolution and containing the intersection location, forms a first angle of a value that is not zero and in projection into a second plane tangential to the interior surface at the intersection location forms a second angle of a value that is not zero.
US08844652B2 Interlocking low profile rotating control device
A system and method is provided for a low profile rotating control device (LP-RCD) and its housing mounted on or integral with an annular blowout preventer seal, casing, or other housing. The LP-RCD and LP-RCD housing can fit within a limited space available on drilling rigs. An embodiment allows a LP-RCD to be removably disposed with a LP-RCD housing by rotating a bearing assembly rotating plate. A sealing element may be removably disposed with the LP-RCD bearing assembly by rotating a seal retainer ring. Alternatively, a sealing element may be removably disposed with the LP-RCD bearing assembly with a seal support member threadedly attached with the LP-RCD bearing assembly. The seal support member may be locked in position with a seal locking ring removably attached with threads with the LP-RCD bearing assembly over the seal support member. Spaced apart accumulators may be disposed radially outward of the bearings in the bearing assembly to provide self lubrication to the bearings.
US08844646B2 Integrated cylinder and reversing assembly of a reciprocating pneumatic tool
An integrated module of a cylinder and reversing assembly of a reciprocating pneumatic tool is arranged between an air pressure control module and a guide outlet of a piston rod in a groove of the reciprocating pneumatic tool. The integrated module has a cylindrical body, an air pressure guiding seat positioned in the cylindrical body, a reversible actuating slot recessed into the seat body, a reversing brake block movably positioned into the reversible actuating slot, and a partition board fixedly assembled between the seat body and the cylindrical body.
US08844642B2 Automatic flow restrictor for firefighting apparatus
An automatic flow restrictor includes a movement sensor that detects undesired movement of a firefighting apparatus relative to a support surface and automatically reduces the flow of fluid through the apparatus to thereby reduce reaction forces acting upon the apparatus. The sensor may be a slidable member or an actuatable lever, for example, that detects movement of the apparatus along or away from a support surface, and actuates an adjuster to restrict the flow of fluid until the forces are balanced and the apparatus stops moving relative to the support surface.
US08844640B2 Extensible and ground support fire curtain
A ground supported and upwardly extensible firewall curtain, such as for use in containing fires. A plurality of ground anchored and elongated housing are arranged in end-to-end interconnected fashion, such as in an advance position of an approaching fire. Each housing assembly includes an interiorly stored and upwardly extended curtain constructed of a fire resistant material. The curtains are likewise interconnected in end-to-end and inter-structurally supported fashion and so that a continuous fire wall is created to prevent or retard the advance of the fire in a given direction, such as toward residential or other populated areas.
US08844639B2 Pentane-hexane solvent in situ recovery of heavy oil
An integrated thermal recovery process using a solvent of a pentane or hexane or both as an additive to, or sole component of, a gravity-dominated process for recovering bitumen or heavy oil from a reservoir. A pentane-hexane specific solvent fraction is extracted at surface from a diluent stream. That pentane-hexane solvent fraction is then injected into the reservoir as part of a gravity-dominated recovery process within the reservoir, and when that solvent fraction is subsequently produced as part of the oil or bitumen blend, it is allowed to remain within the blend to enhance the subsequent blend treating and transportation steps. Meanwhile, the remainder of the diluent from which the solvent stream had been extracted is utilized at surface as a blending stream to serve as an aid in treating of produced fluids and also to serve as a means of rendering the bitumen or heavy oil stream pipelineable.
US08844636B2 Hydraulic assist deployment system for artificial lift systems
A well conveyance system couples to an uphole end of an artificial lift system and operates to push the artificial lift system through a tubing string for deployment in a wellbore. The well conveyance system includes a wellbore tractor adapted to push the artificial lift system through the tubing string and a swab cup assembly having a swab cup and a perforated nipple extending therethrough. The perforated nipple includes a nipple passage allowing for fluid flow from an area downhole from the swab cup to an area uphole from the swab cup when the wellbore tractor operates. A valve selectively blocks the perforated nipple to permit a hydraulic pressure to be applied to the tubing string uphole of the swab cup, exerting a downhole force on the swab cup to aid in deployment of the artificial lift system.
US08844631B2 Debris removal system for downhole closure mechanism, and method thereof
A debris removal system includes a tubular. A closure mechanism arranged to at least partially close an interior of the tubular. An injector mechanism having an exit arranged downhole of the closure mechanism; wherein debris removing material ejected from the injector mechanism is directable towards the closure mechanism. Also included is a method of removing debris in a downhole tubular.
US08844628B2 Self-adaptive cements
A self-adaptive cement formulation includes cement, water and asphaltite-mineral particles. The set cement demonstrates self-healing properties when exposed to methane, and is particularly suited for well-cementing applications. After placement and curing, the self-healing properties help maintain zonal isolation should bonding be disrupted between the set cement and the formation or a casing string, should cracks or defects appear in the set-cement matrix, or both.
US08844625B2 Perforating gun spacer
Perforating gun connectors are provided with a small diameter inner tube to house the detonating cord and an outer load-bearing tube that is ported to be in pressure balance. The inner tube controls the volume in the gun for the well fluids to enter after the guns are fired and the initial pressure surge dissipates. The smaller diameter also increases pressure rating and diminishes the chance of plastic deformation. Since the inner tube is inset even some deformation is tolerated without distorting the outer tube due to the space between the tubes. A bored rod is used as a housing member or a layered single outer wall.
US08844624B2 Rigid centralizer
Embodiments of the disclosure provide a rigid centralizer having at least one annular band with radially extending embossed flutes spaced around an outer surface of the at least one annular band and a plurality of elongated connecting posts welded to an inner surface of the at least one annular band to form a tubular receiving annulus.
US08844623B2 Method and system for one-trip hanger installation
There is provided a system and method for installing a wellhead component in a single trip. Generally, a wellhead component may be run into a wellhead using a running tool. The running tool may then be retrieved from the wellhead and replaced with a locking tool, which is also run into the wellhead. Additional tools may be used to over-pull the wellhead component and to cementing the wellhead component in place. The process of retrieving and running tools into the wellhead is both time-consuming and costly. Accordingly, the disclosed embodiments include a one-trip tool configured to run a wellhead component into a wellhead, engage an internal coupling to lock the wellhead component in place, over-pull the wellhead component to ensure the internal coupling was properly engaged, and cement the wellhead component in place within the wellhead.
US08844622B2 Wellbore cleaning method and apparatus
A method of drilling and cleaning a wellbore includes providing a drill string having a drill bit and a cleaning tool with selectively activatable cleaning members; drilling a wellbore using the drill bit while maintaining the cleaning members in a deactivated position; and pulling the drill string from the wellbore with the cleaning members in an activated position, to thereby clean the wellbore. A corresponding cleaning tool includes a body having a bore running therethrough, a sleeve located within the bore, the sleeve including a ball seat and the sleeve being biased in a first direction, and a plurality of selectively activatable cleaning members mounted for repeated movement relative to the body between activated and deactivated positions.
US08844620B2 Side-tracking system and related methods
A sidetracking tool includes a setting tool having an expandable anchor, a whipstock connected to an upper end of the setting tool, the whipstock having a ramp face along an axial length thereof, and a drilling assembly including a drill bit disposed on an end thereof, wherein the drill bit is configured to interface with the ramp face of the whipstock.
US08844609B2 Cooling manifold
Apparatus including cooling manifold, having metal cooling body and metal cooling block. Metal cooling body has internal passageway. Metal cooling block extends away from metal cooling body. Metal cooling block has surface oriented for being placed adjacent to and in substantially direct thermal communication with an electronic component located at distance away from metal cooling body. Cooling manifold is configured for circulating a working fluid through internal passageway and for precluding passage of the working fluid from metal cooling body into metal cooling block. Method that includes providing electronic component and cooling manifold. Provided cooling manifold includes metal cooling body and metal cooling block; metal cooling body has internal passageway; metal cooling block extends away from metal cooling body; metal cooling block has surface oriented adjacent to and in substantially direct thermal communication with electronic component being located at distance away from metal cooling body. Method also includes causing working fluid to be circulated through internal passageway while precluding passage of working fluid from metal cooling body into metal cooling block, such that heat is transferred from electronic component to working fluid.
US08844607B2 Method and apparatus for production of a cast component
A system for producing cast components from molten metal. One form of the present invention includes a system for the precision pouring of molten metal within a casting mold. The precision pouring system is driven by a pressure differential.
US08844605B2 Single cord operated clutch for roller blind
A clutch for a roller blind. The clutch comprises a drive shaft operatively connected to a drive mechanism, an idle shaft releasably coupled to the drive shaft, and a drive spring. The drive mechanism imparts rotational movement to the drive shaft. The idle shaft is operatively connected to the tube of the roller blind such that rotation of the idle shaft causes rotation of the roller blind tube. The drive spring is operatively associated with the idle shaft and with the drive shaft such that rotation of the drive shaft in a first direction causes the drive spring to impart rotational movement to the idle shaft, thereby causing rotation of the roller blind tube. When the drive shaft is rotated in a second opposite direction the drive spring permits the drive shaft to rotate independently of the idle shaft.
US08844599B2 Configurable tooling and molding method using the same
Configurable layup tooling used to fabricate reinforced composite parts having a common shape but varying features are disclosed herein. An example apparatus disclosed herein includes a common tool body. A first mandrel is received by the common tool body to form at least a first portion of a common shape and a first profile of a first part to be formed via the common tool body. A second mandrel is received by the common tool body to form the first portion of the common shape and a second profile of a second part that is different from the first part.
US08844598B2 Fusion welding socket
A fusion welding socket for coupling together double walled plastic conduits including an inner pipe, an outer pipe surrounding the inner pipe and an annular space arranged between the inner and outer pipes. The fusion welding socket includes a main body comprising a first end portion, a second end portion and an intermediate portion. The intermediate portion has at least one inner diameter which is smaller than the inner diameters of the first and second end portions. Three heating coils are embedded in the first end portion, the second end portion and the intermediate portion, respectively, for fusing together the first and second end portions with a respective outer pipe of a first and second conduit and the intermediate portion with a respective inner pipe of the first and second conduit. A passageway includes an annular space is arranged to connect the annular spaces of the first and second conduit after fusion.
US08844596B2 Central tire inflation wheel assembly, valve and central tire inflation system
The present invention is a valve for use in a central tire inflation system including a casing securable to the rim of a vehicle in communication with the tire that houses a main body connectable to a pressurized fluid supply of the central tire inflation system, and a valve member moveable within the main body to control the flow of air through the valve. The valve can be mounted flush on the exterior surface of the rim or in a recessed position within the rim, and can be connected to a manifold that is able to control the flow of pressurized fluid from the central tire inflation system to each valve and tire connected to the valve. The operation of the manifold and pressurized fluid supply can be controlled utilizing a controller operably connected to the manifold and fluid supply, and to sensing devices that supply information regarding the operational conditions of the vehicle to the controller to assist in adjusting the inflation of the tires as necessary.
US08844592B2 Pneumatic tire
A pneumatic tire improved in on-ice performance and on-snow performance in good balance. The pneumatic tire includes a tread portion extending in a tire circumferential direction and forming a ring shape, a pair of sidewall portions on both sides of the tread portion, respectively, and a pair of bead portions on inner sides of the sidewall portions in a tire radial direction, respectively. The tread portion includes a plurality of longitudinal grooves extending in the tire circumferential direction and a plurality of lateral grooves extending in a tire width direction. The longitudinal and lateral grooves define a plurality of block rows each including a plurality of blocks. Each of the plurality of blocks included in at least one of the block rows includes at least three closed grooves including at least one first closed groove and at least one second closed groove.
US08844589B2 Motorcycle tyre
Motorcycle tire suitable for mounting on the rear wheel of a motorcycle, including a tread band having a tread pattern includes a module which is repeated in a direction of circumferential extension of the tire, the module having: at least two substantially longitudinal first grooves which are inclined opposite to each other with respect to the equatorial plane of the tire; and at least two substantially longitudinal second grooves which are inclined opposite to each other with respect to the equatorial plane. Each substantially longitudinal first groove alternates with a second longitudinal groove. The substantially longitudinal first grooves have, in a direction axially away from the equatorial plane of the tire, two substantially consecutive curvilinear sections, the first section of which has a convexity and the second section of which has a concavity directed in the rolling direction of the tire. The first curvilinear section defines along its extension with the equatorial plane angles smaller than or equal to 90°.
US08844587B1 Locking fuel pump dispenser
The present invention relates to a locking fuel pump fuel dispenser nozzle and especially to a locking fuel pump fuel dispenser nozzle having a locking mechanism for automatically locking a fuel nozzle spout in the vehicle filler tube whenever fuel is being pumped into the vehicle filler tube and fuel tank and which can be unlocked only when fuel pressure from the fuel pump is cut off.
US08844586B2 Retaining brace having a clamp for grasping bottle necks
A retaining bracket used in bottle processing includes a clamp having clamp arms that pivot in a horizontal plane for grasping bottle necks, a sliding sleeve for receiving a hinge pin entering therein from an upward direction, the hinge pin having a magnetizable or magnetically free end, a first permanent magnet disposed in a lower region of the sleeve for interacting with the free end of the hinge pin, a pivotable sleeve for receiving a second pin parallel to the hinge pin, the second pin having, at a free end thereof, a permanent magnet or magnetically influenced region that exerts an attractive force tending to center and restore the clamp, and a brace-like projection that engages below the clamp when the clamp is in a locked position.
US08844585B2 Apparatus and method of filling containers with cleaning device
An apparatus for filling containers with a liquid and, in particular, with a beverage, with a plurality of filling elements which in each case have an outlet in order to pour the beverage into the containers, as well as a valve device in order to control the supply of the liquid into the containers, with a conveying device which conveys the containers along a pre-set conveying path at least for a time during the filling thereof with the liquid, and with a cleaning device which acts with a cleaning medium upon at least one region contacted by the liquid to be filled. At least one filling element is designed in such a way that the cleaning medium is freely discharged out of this filling element during a cleaning operation.
US08844576B2 Exhaust pipe
An object of the present invention is to provide an exhaust pipe in which a peeling of a constituent member does not occur and reliability thereof is excellent, and an exhaust pipe allowing exhaust gases to flow through the exhaust pipe of the present invention includes a heat-releasing layer containing a crystalline inorganic material and an amorphous inorganic material and having infrared emissivity higher than infrared emissivity of a base, wherein irregularities are formed on a surface of the base on which the heat-releasing layer is to be formed.
US08844573B2 Valve arrangement for controlling brake devices and auxiliary devices of a pneumatic brake system of a vehicle
A valve arrangement controls brake devices and auxiliary devices of a pneumatic brake system of a vehicle, and includes pneumatic control valves which are detachably arranged on at least one common support module containing compressed air channels, for carrying out braking functions or auxiliary braking functions of the brake system. The valve arrangement also includes several adjacently arranged block-shaped support modules having at least the same height and depth measurements and including channel sections forming common longitudinal channels when all of the support modules are adjacently arranged in a row. At least one unit hole receives a control valve embodied as a cartridge valve and arranged on a front side of each support module to enable switching the compressed air flow between inner channels.
US08844572B2 Drain pipe waste water closure protection device
An embodiment includes a drain pipe waste water closure protection device which allows passage of fluids through a drain into a pipe waste water closure and a waste water pipe while preventing backflow of fluid or gas from the waste water pipe and pipe waste water closure, as well as preventing evaporation of a water-containing pipe waste water closure located below the drain pipe waste water closure protection device in the waste water pipe. Embodiment drain pipe waste water closure protection devices are easily installed in existing or new drains. Embodiments have two radial disc seals which insure a strong seal between the drain pipe waste water closure protection device and the drain wall. Embodiments include a reinforcing band embedded below the radial disc seals which prevents failure of the radial disc seals.Embodiments include a quadruple pressure accumulating seal which protects against the flow of gas or fluid from the waste water pipe.
US08844571B2 Fluid actuator for producing a pulsed outlet flow in the flow around an aerodynamic body, and discharge device and aerodynamic body equipped therewith
A fluid actuator for influencing the flow along a flow surface by ejecting a fluid flowing through the fluid actuator is described. The fluid actuator has at least two outlet lines with outlet openings at the respective ends thereof, and a feed line connected to the outlet lines for feeding fluid at a supply pressure, a flow direction diverting device into which the feed line opens and out of which the outlet lines open, and an adjusting device coupled to the flow direction diverting device to control the latter. The adjusting device is configured so the fluid is conducted successively in a cyclic sequence into each of the outlet lines. A discharge device for discharging a fluid out of a flow body, and a flow body having a multiplicity of discharge openings and a discharge device of said type are also described.
US08844570B2 Generating binary states using a microfluidic channel
Methods and devices for using one or more fluidic channels for generating binary states are described. In particular, the present teachings relate to incorporating such fluidic channels into devices that use the generated binary states in various applications.
US08844566B2 Vitrectomy probe with adjustable cutter port size
Vitrectomy probes and system related thereto are disclosed herein. The disclosure describes various example vitrectomy probes having an adjustable cutting port size. Various example features are described for adjusting the size of the cutting port. Further, the disclosure provides examples for adjusting the size of the cutter port while the vitrectomy probe is in operation.
US08844563B2 Dual plate check valve
A check valve in which a stop pin assembly is situated so as to prevent the movement of a flapper beyond a predetermined position. In a preferred embodiment the check valve has two flappers with the stop pin assembly situated therebetween to prevent either one of them from pivoting beyond an essentially vertical position. The stop pin assembly is configured such that it can be inserted and locked in place when the check valve is inserted within a valve body that contains the check valve. The stop pin assembly can comprise three elements including a central portion and first and second end portions, although the stop pin assembly could instead comprise a single element. The stop pin assembly is inserted between two holders and in a preferred embodiment is rotatable to a locking position where it is affixed in place by fasteners.
US08844561B2 Isolation valve with integrated sensor
An isolation valve has an electrically-actuated solenoid valve, at least one port having a port extension, and a sensor assembly coupled to the port extension. The sensor assembly includes a printed circuit board, an integrated circuit disposed on the circuit board, and at least one pressure sensor coupled to the port extension to measure a vapor pressure in the port extension. In one embodiment, a single sensor assembly can monitor pressure at two or more ports. By integrating the sensor assembly into the isolation valve, the valve has a compact assembly that is easy to install in a vapor control system.
US08844559B1 Cleanout protector
A cleanout protector includes a hollow sleeve having an upper end, a lower end and at least one outer wall. The lower end includes a plurality of piercing members for penetrating surrounding soil. Any one of a plurality of fixtures, such as a solar lamp or a decorative design element, is removably mounted on the upper end of the sleeve. Accordingly, a user superimposes the sleeve on a cleanout and inserts the piercing members into the soil as far as possible. A desired fixture is mounted on the sleeve thereby protecting and decoratively concealing the cleanout.
US08844558B2 Adjustable operating rod for a hydrant
An adjustable operating rod assembly is provided. In one embodiment a telescoping rod and tube are provided such that the length of the operating rod can be selectively adjusted in order to accommodate fluid inlet pipes of various lengths and regardless of manufacturer.
US08844557B2 Float valve device
A space in a housing is defined into a lower space and an upper space by a partition wall, and an opening portion is provided in the partition wall. A vertically slidable float is housed in the lower space of the housing and on an upper portion of the float, a movable valve is mounted so as to be movable relatively to the float in a vertical direction and a lateral direction. A protruding portion is provided on the upper portion of the float, and a receiving portion on which the protruding portion abuts is provided on a lower surface of the movable valve. A center hole is provided in a center of the receiving portion. When the float comes up, a peripheral portion of a top portion of the protruding portion of the float is adapted to abut on an inner circumference periphery of the center hole.
US08844552B2 Slug mitigation
Method and apparatus for mitigating slug formation in a multiphase fluid stream flowing through a conduit. The method includes (a) determining the pressure in the conduit upstream of a slugging zone, (b) determining the pressure in the conduit downstream of the slugging zone, (c) determining the actual pressure difference across the slugging zone by subtracting the downstream pressure from step (b) from the upstream pressure from step (a), (d) determining the error between a target pressure difference and the actual pressure difference, (e) producing a signal having a first component which is proportional to the error and a second component which is proportional to the rate of change of the error over time, and (f) using the signal produced in step (e) to control the position of an adjustable choke valve located downstream of the slugging zone so as to stabilize variations arising in the actual pressure difference over time.
US08844550B2 Craft dome
The quickly erectable dome shelter includes an extendible perimeter truss assembly with link members connected between adjacent legs, a central truss assembly of link members, and a roof framework, including pairs of curved upper and lower peak truss members, that is movable between a lowered, collapsed configuration and a raised, upwardly arching position. The shelter also includes telescoping peak pole members coupled to the central truss assembly of link members and the roof framework, and may also include telescoping peak truss brace members connected between a peak truss member and a link member of the perimeter assembly of link members.
US08844546B2 Apparatus and method for cleaning semiconductor substrate using pressurized fluid
Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to an apparatus and a method for cleaning a semiconductor substrate after a polishing process. Particularly, embodiments of the present invention relates to an apparatus and method for cleaning a substrate using pressurized fluid. One embodiment of the present invention comprises two rollers to support and rotate a substrate in a substantially vertical orientation, a pressure wheel to apply a force to engage the substrate with the two rollers, and a swinging nozzle configured to dispense a pressurized fluid towards the substrate.
US08844545B2 Treatment liquid supply apparatus and substrate treatment apparatus including the same
A treatment liquid supply apparatus supplies a treatment liquid to a predetermined object for treatment of a substrate, and recovers the supplied treatment liquid for reuse. The apparatus includes: a first tank in which the treatment liquid to be supplied to the object is stored; a second tank in which the treatment liquid recovered from the object is stored; a transfer unit which transfers the treatment liquid from the second tank to the first tank; a first temperature regulating unit which regulates the temperature of the treatment liquid to be supplied from the first tank to the object; and a second temperature regulating unit which regulates the temperature of the treatment liquid to be transferred from the second tank to the first tank by the transfer unit.
US08844543B2 Concave-convex roller assembly
A dual-ended applicator is provided. The applicator includes a handle, a first roller having a broad concave surface at one end of the handle, and a second, ball-like roller having a convex surface, at the opposite end of the handle. The first roller, having a greater axial length and surface area than does the second roller is intended for applying a cosmetic to broader convex areas of the skin. The second roller, having a lesser axial dimension and surface area as compared with the first roller is intended for distributing a cosmetic to the narrower, concave areas of the skin. The first roller is mounted on the applicator so as to rotate about a fixed axis lateral to the longitudinal axis of the applicator, and will move in straight paths along the skin, in line with the longitudinal axis of the applicator. The second, ball-like roller is mounted on the applicator so as to travel along both straight and curved paths, automatically adjusting between positions as the applicator is moved along the skin surface.
US08844539B2 Nipple cover
One aspect of the present application relates to a covering member for a protruding portion of a patient's body. This cover is flexible and collapsible so that it conforms to the shape of the encased portion of the body.
US08844536B1 Locking apparatus for a head fixation device
A locking apparatus for use with a head fixation device allows for a stabilizing fixture, such as a rocker arm having a pair of skull pins, to be selectively secured so that the stabilizing fixture can be adjustably rotated to a desired position. In some version the locking apparatus includes a connector that is retained within an opening in a portion of the head fixation device. The connector can translate within the opening and is restricted from rotation. The translating of the connector permits the connector to engage an arch member that retains the stabilizing fixture. The engagement of the connector and arch member is accomplished, in some versions, by way of matching axial oriented toothed portions or starburst features. In some versions the teeth on the starburst features include a chamfer surface.
US08844528B2 Breathing circuits to facilitate the measurement of cardiac output during controlled and spontaneous ventilation
A breathing circuit for sequential gas delivery of a first gas set (FGS) and a second gas set (SGS) employs an arrangement of conduits and active or passive valves to prevent mixing of the FGS and SGS including a valve triggered by depletion of FGS that makes the SGS available for inspiration after the FGS is depleted.
US08844524B2 CPAP mask and system
A continuous positive air pressure (“CPAP”) or ventilator system includes a mask and an air flow generator. The air flow generator is mounted or provided to the mask's wearer. In one embodiment, air flow generator is mounted on the mask.
US08844522B2 Power management in respiratory treatment apparatus
A respiratory treatment apparatus provides respiratory treatment with improved power management control to permit more efficient power consumption and power supply units, such as battery powered operation. In one embodiment, power management prioritizes the flow generator (104) over other accessories such as the heating elements (111, 135) of a humidifier (112) and/or a delivery tube. The flow generator may control operations of the heating elements as a function of a detected respiratory cycle. For example, the timing of operation of the heating elements may be interleaved with the portion of an inspiratory phase of the respiratory cycle to permit the flow generator to operate during a peak power operation without a power drain or with a lower power drain from these components. Operations of distinct sets of components of the system (e.g., different heating elements) may also be interleaved to prevent simultaneous peak power operations.
US08844520B2 Nebulizer apparatus and method
A nebulizer for efficiently and reliably delivering aerosolized fluid to an inhaling patient is disclosed. The nebulizer includes a fluid channel air inlet and fluid channel air inlet valve responsive to either a manual force external of the nebulizer, or a patient's breathing, to begin the nebulization process. Also provided is a method of providing nebulization including the steps of moving a fluid channel air inlet valve against a fluid channel air inlet so that a negative pressure may build up over the fluid in the fluid channel to draw fluid from the fluid reservoir and begin nebulization during inhalation.
US08844519B2 Torque transfer between trough collector modules
A system for transferring torque between modules in a concentrating solar collector array. A trough collector system includes at least two modules, each module including a reflector having a reflective surface shaped to concentrate incoming radiation onto a linear tube, and a structural lattice attached to the reflector. The modules are constrained to rotate about a common axis. A torque transfer connection directly connects the three-dimensional structural lattices of the two modules at a location removed from the axis of rotation. Torque is thus transmitted between the modules by a force couple acting on the module. Also described are a method of transferring torque between adjacent trough collector modules, and a three-dimensional structural lattice configured for use in the system and method. Mechanisms for accommodating thermal expansion and contraction of the array are described. A drive system is described that imparts torque to a module near an edge of the module.
US08844518B2 Solar receiver absorber and solar receiver comprising at least one such absorber
A solar power tower solar receiver absorber including: an enclosure; at least one panel configured to be illuminated by solar flux; a core made of at least one material with heat conductivity at least partially encompassed by the enclosure; and a plurality of tubes passing through the core and extending substantially in a parallel direction with respect to the panel configured to be illuminated. The tube is configured for circulation of a fluid to be heated, for example a gas for operating a gas turbine.
US08844516B2 Heating apparatus using solar energy and method of heating using solar energy
This relates to a heating device including a solar energy collector, the solar energy collector transferring collected solar energy to outside air. First collector panels are used to heat outside air which heated air is led to a heater, for example a space heater. Second collector panels are used to transfer solar energy to air led to a heat exchanger of a heat pump. The heat pump transfers the extracted heat to heat storage. The stored heat is added to the air coming from the first collector panels if the temperature of the air coming from the first collector panels is below a predetermined temperature.
US08844515B2 Carousel heliostat having louvered horizontal mirrors for solar tower systems
A low profile heliostat with elongated louvered mirror segments is provided. Its envelope of revolution has the shape of a flat disc to enable heliostat fields with very high ground coverage ratio. The heliostat's disc-shaped footprint rotates around a substantially vertical axis (akin to a carousel). The short dimension of the mirror segments is drastically shorter than the disc's diameter. Embodiments are described in which the motion relies on two concentric rings, which are individually rotated around a vertical axis. The lower ring acts as a platform providing mainly azimuth tracking, carrying the upper ring. The differential rotation between the upper ring and the lower ring is translated into a rotation of the mirror segments around a second, perpendicular, axis and used for elevation tracking. Disc-shaped heliostat with D-shaped cut-offs are described, to facilitate the required maintenance access even in highly dense heliostat fields.
US08844512B2 Combustion air supply apparatus for an oven appliance
An oven appliance is provided with an apparatus that supplies combustion air (i.e. primary air) to gas burner(s) of the oven appliance. The apparatus includes an air channel that provides for a flow of fresh, combustion air from the exterior of the oven appliance to a gas burner and, more particularly, to the shutter of a gas burner. The air channel can also be provided with a flame arrestor.
US08844510B2 Riser of compound bow
A riser of a compound bow includes a lower section and an upper section. The upper section has an end section and a connection section which is connected to the lower section by engagement of pins and pin holes of the two respective connection ends. The connection is further reinforced by way of welding. The end section is further connected with the connection section by engagement of pins and pin holes of the two respective connection ends. The connection is further reinforced by way of welding. The riser is strong and saves material.
US08844505B2 Method for managing the exhaust gas circulation circuit of a petrol thermal engine and corresponding recirculation system
The invention relates to a method for managing an exhaust gas recirculation circuit of a petrol thermal engine, the engine including at least one combustion chamber connected to an inlet line and an exhaust line between which extends said recirculation circuit, the recirculation circuit including a flow-rate adjustment valve, wherein said method comprises the step of adjusting flow-rate adjustment valve based on a flow-rate setpoint, said method further comprising the steps of: detecting an operation parameter representative of a pressure difference between an upstream pressure and a downstream pressure relative to the flow-rate adjustment valve, and, after comparing the parameter with a threshold corresponding to a minimum pressure difference, adjusting the flow-rate in at least one of the lines in order to increase the pressure difference.
US08844501B2 Control and regulation method for an internal combustion engine having a common rail system
The invention relates to a control and regulation method for an internal combustion engine having a common rail system, wherein a rail pressure is regulated in normal operation in that a first actual rail pressure is determined via a first filter from the rail pressure, an offset is calculated from a target rail pressure and the first actual rail pressure, a variable is calculated via a pressure regulator from the offset and a PWM signal having a first PWM frequency (f1) for activation of a control process is determined in dependence on the variable. A second actual rail pressure (pCR2(IST) is determined via a second filter, a load rejection is recognized if the second actual rail pressure (pCR2(IST)) exceeds a first threshold value (GW1), upon exceeding the first threshold value (GW1) the PWM signal switches over from the first PWM frequency (f1) to a second PWM frequency (f2) and the rail pressure is controlled upon exceeding a second threshold value in that the PWM signal is temporarily set to a PWM value that is higher than that of normal operation.
US08844491B2 Laser spark plug
A laser spark plug, e.g., for an internal combustion engine of a motor vehicle or a heavy-duty gas engine, has an antechamber for receiving an ignitable medium and a combustion chamber window which separates the antechamber from a part of the laser spark plug facing away from the combustion chamber. At least one flow-guiding element is provided in the antechamber and is situated in such a way that it deflects a fluid flow, which occurs in the antechamber and moves toward the combustion chamber window, into a radially inner direction.
US08844490B2 Corona igniter having controlled location of corona formation
A corona igniter 20 includes an insulator 28 surrounding a central electrode 24 and a shell 30 surrounding the insulator 28. The shell 30 presents a shell gap 38 having a shell gap width ws between a shell lower end 34 and a shell inner surface 90 or shell outer surface 92. The shell 30 has a shell thickness ts decreasing toward the shell lower end 34 allowing the shell gap width ws to increase toward the shell lower end 34. The shell gap 38 is open at the shell lower end 34 allowing air to flow therein, and the shell gap width ws is greatest at the shell lower end 34. The increasing shell gap width ws enhances corona discharge 22 along the insulator 28 between the central electrode 24 and shell 30.
US08844485B2 Valve timing controller
A valve timing controller includes a lock mechanism that locks a rotation phase at a main lock phase when an internal combustion engine is started with an ambient temperature more than or equal to a preset temperature. The main lock phase represents a rotation phase set for closing an intake valve at a later timing later than a timing when a piston reaches a bottom dead center of a cylinder in the internal combustion engine. The lock mechanism locks the rotation phase at a sub lock phase representing a rotation phase advanced rather than the main lock phase in the internal combustion engine when the internal combustion engine is started with an ambient temperature lower than the present temperature.
US08844481B2 Variable valve apparatus for internal combustion engine
A variable valve apparatus for an internal combustion engine includes a control shaft, a camshaft having first and second camshaft members rotatable relative to each other, a rotary cam rotating together with the second camshaft member for opening and closing of an exhaust valve, an eccentric drive cam rotating together with the first camshaft member, a rocker arm caused to swing with rotation of the eccentric drive cam, a swing cam caused to swing by the rocker arm for opening and closing of an intake valve, a control cam formed on the control shaft to change an operating position of the rocker arm according to a rotational phase of the control shaft and vary the amount of swinging movement of the swing cam, a phase control mechanism adapted to control a relative rotational phase of the first and second camshaft members and an actuator for rotating the control shaft.
US08844480B2 Internal-combustion engine having a system for variable actuation of the intake valves, provided with three-way solenoid valves
An internal-combustion engine with two intake valves for each cylinder is provided with a system for variable actuation of the intake valves, comprising a single solenoid valve for each cylinder that controls communication of the pressurized-fluid chamber of the system with an exhaust channel. The solenoid valve is a three-way, three-position solenoid valve, comprising an inlet permanently communicating with the pressurized-fluid chamber and with the hydraulic actuator of an intake valve, and two outlets communicating, respectively, with the actuator of the other intake valve and with said exhaust channel. The solenoid valve has a first position, in which the inlet communicates with both of the outlets, a second position, in which the inlet communicates only with the aforesaid outlet connected to the actuator of an intake valve and does not communicate, instead, with the outlet connected to the exhaust channel, and a third position, in which the inlet does not communicate with any of the two outlets.
US08844479B2 Variable compression ratio engine
In a variable compression ratio engine with a connecting mechanism including a first control shaft to control the compression ratio of a variable compression ratio, a second control shaft to be rotated/retained by an actuator, and a lever interconnecting the first control shaft and the second control shaft, a speed reduction ratio from the actuator to the first control shaft through the rotation power transmission path is set to be maximum at the maximum compression ratio, at a preset compression ratio (i.e. at any given compression ratio between the minimum compression ratio and the maximum compression ratio) the speed reduction ratio is set to be minimum, and the reduction ratio is set higher at the maximum compression ratio as compared to the intermediate compression ratio.
US08844477B2 Hand-held work apparatus powered by internal combustion engine
A hand-held work apparatus includes an engine housing (200). An internal combustion engine (202) is arranged in the engine housing (200) and includes a cylinder (204) and a crankshaft. A fan wheel (214) is driven directly or indirectly by the crank shaft, such that the fan wheel (214) rotates about an axis A. A fan housing (216) surrounds and cooperates with the fan wheel (214). A combustion air inlet (224) is located radially outside of the fan wheel (214) for leading air to the internal combustion engine (202). Further, the combustion air inlet (224) includes a combustion air inlet port (226) and a combustion air duct (228). The combustion air inlet port (226) is provided with a first edge (230), which first edge (230) is located radially adjacent to the periphery (220) of the fan wheel (214). An angle X between a first line L1 extending radially from the axis A in a direction parallel to a main direction of the cylinder (204) and a radius L2 extending radially from the axis A in a direction such that it intersects with the first edge (230), is less than 70° and preferably less than 66°, and even more preferably less than 62°.
US08844476B2 Motor-driven implement having switchable summer-winter operating function
A motor driven implement having an internal combustion engine having at least one cylinder and at least one carburettor, which is disposed in a carburettor chamber, which is separated by an intermediate wall from an engine compartment, wherein a fan wheel is further provided by which means air from the engine compartment can be introduced through an engine compartment opening in the intermediate wall into the carburettor chamber. A warm air opening is provided in the intermediate wall, through which the air heated over the cylinder can be introduced into the carburettor chamber and wherein an adjusting element is provided which can be brought into a summer position in which the engine compartment opening is open and the warm air opening is closed and which can be brought into a winter position in which the engine compartment opening is closed and the warm air opening is open.
US08844473B2 Gradual oxidation with reciprocating engine
Described herein are embodiments of systems and methods for oxidizing gases. In some embodiments, a reaction chamber is configured to receive a fuel gas and maintain the gas at a temperature within the reaction chamber that is above an autoignition temperature of the gas. The reaction chamber may also be configured to maintain a reaction temperature within the reaction chamber below a flameout temperature. In some embodiments, heat and product gases from the oxidation process can be used, for example, to drive a turbine, reciprocating engine, and injected back into the reaction chamber.
US08844468B2 Aquarium landscape system
An aquarium landscape system that includes an aquarium that contains a combination of one or more aquatic animals and water, a base gravel mold with a top surface with 4 corners and a plurality of eye hooks that each have a threaded vertical insert portion and a circular eye portion that expose the circular eye portion of the eye hooks above the top surface of the base gravel mold. The system also includes one or more air hose connector valves that perpendicularly protrude from the top surface of the base gravel mold, a plurality of air valves that perpendicularly protrude from the top surface of the base gravel mold, the air valves emit the incoming air received by the air supply source into the aquarium and a pair of removable handles to remove the system from the aquarium for cleaning.
US08844464B2 Systems, methods, and devices for applying fluid composites to a carrier sheet
Systems, method and devices for applying a fluid composite to a carrier sheet are presented herein. An aspect of this disclosure is directed to a fluid-administering apparatus for applying a fluid composite, such as resins, epoxies, and adhesives, to a carrier sheet, such as a cloth tape. The apparatus includes a support frame with a container buttress, and a container removably received within the container buttress of the support frame. The container has a basin for holding the fluid composite, a lid covering the basin, and first and second scraping surfaces for scraping the carrier sheet. The container also has first and second slots, each of which is defined through a respective opposing side of the container. The carrier sheet passes through the first slot, traverses down into the basin through the fluid composite, slides over the first scraping surface then under the second scraping surface, and passes out through the second slot.
US08844457B2 Quick method for building boats
Method for building boats comprising a plurality of panels (11, 12) attached at the bottom and at the side to a hull (13) and at the top to a deck (14) suitable for defining a plurality of watertight compartments in the underdeck area, the method comprising the steps of attaching together the panels (11, 12) according to predetermined angles through fitting elements (20, 20′, 20″) of the type provided with at least two pathways for receiving the panels (11, 12), mutually arranged according to predetermined angles, and a pathway for receiving adhesive from outside and for distributing it in the pathways for receiving the panels (11, 12), anchoring the panels (11, 12) to the deck (14) and to the sides (13′) of the hull (13).
US08844450B2 Systems, components and methods for delivering liquid substances
A product reservoir is provided that includes a flexible bag and a carton to receive and retain the flexible bag. The bag may contain liquid chemical substances that are dispensed from the bag through a bag spout. The product reservoir may serve as a component to a fluid delivery system, such as a direct injection system employed by agricultural seed planting machines. When the bag is connected to the direct injection system, the liquid substance is placed in fluid communication with a delivery device whereby the substance can be dispensed to a selected area for treatment. The liquid substance may be mixed in-line with water received from a water reservoir prior to being dispensed by the delivery device. The planting machine may be equipped with a plurality of product reservoirs. A method of applying a liquid pesticide to a selected area is also provided.
US08844448B2 Neck harness sling hand free reversible desk
A device relates generally to a portable support plane, and more particularly to a neck harness sling that goes on a user's neck and suspends a rectangular reversible plane that provides a hands free, stable surface that supports portable electronic devices including but not limited to tablets and smartphones, or legal pads about a user's neck for convenient writing, typing or texting while walking, sitting, standing or reclining.
US08844439B2 Liquid transfer method and liquid transfer apparatus
A liquid transfer method includes the steps of conveying a sheet by holding the sheet by a transport cylinder, and transferring a liquid to one surface of the sheet by a transfer cylinder opposing the transport cylinder and transferring the liquid to the other surface of the sheet by the transport cylinder. The step of transferring includes the step of positioning an edge of a region on one surface of the sheet, downstream in a sheet convey direction, where the liquid is to be transferred, upstream in the sheet convey direction of an edge of a region on the other surface of the sheet, downstream in the sheet convey direction, where the liquid is to be transferred. A liquid transfer apparatus is also disclosed.
US08844437B2 Process and system for aligning printed images with perforated sheets
A system and process for aligning printed images on a rolled product with perforation lines being formed into the product is disclosed. According to the process, the position of printed images are sensed as the images are being printed onto a substrate, such as a tissue strip. The images are printed onto the substrate using a printing device including at least one rotating print roller. In order to maintain the printed images in alignment with perforation lines being formed into the substrate, the speed of the print roller is adjusted in order to adjust the length of the printed images.
US08844435B2 Compression-type wastebasket
A compression-type wastebasket includes: a body which has an opened upper part and a space formed therein in order to accommodate a garbage bag; a body cover which is configured to cover the upper part of the body, wherein an opening unit for connecting the inside and the outside of the body is formed on the central part thereof, a bag fixing unit is formed along the outer girth of the opening unit to fix the girth of an inlet end portion of the garbage bag, and a gripping unit is formed on a part of the opening unit; and a compression member which has a compression surface capable of entering the opening unit in order to compress the waste contained within the body, and is configured to be gripped on the gripping unit while rotating at a predetermined angle on the basis of a compression direction in the opening unit.
US08844429B2 Beverage maker with pump noise attenuator
A beverage maker, such as a pump espresso machine, comprises a noise attenuator reducing pump noise. The noise attenuator has a housing with an inlet chamber receiving inlet flow from an inlet port, the inlet chamber having compliant walls permitting volumetric expansion. An outlet chamber in the noise attenuator housing has an outlet port and spheroidal walls. A flow-restrictor is disposed between the inlet and outlet chambers. An elastomeric insert in the housing forms the inlet chamber and at least part of the outlet chamber.
US08844428B2 Extraction system for the preparation of a beverage from a cartridge
Extraction system for preparing a beverage from a cartridge using a fluid injected under pressure into the cartridge. The system includes a cartridge and an extraction device intended to accept the cartridge. The extraction device includes an injection cage and a cartridge support being arranged in such a way as to be moved relative to one another in the pre-injection mode of closure around the cartridge by a closure device. The injection cage has a base and a closure piston unit which is mounted such that it can be moved axially with respect to the base. The closure piston unit can be moved relative to the base by the pressure exerted by the fluid upon injection.
US08844427B2 Brewing head of a hot beverage dispenser based on dimensionally stable beverage capsules
The present invention concerns a brewing head (1) of a hot beverage dispenser operating on the basis of dimensionally stable beverage capsules, containing a base plate (2), a capsule receptacle (3), a lid (4) and at least one locking device for forming a watertight brewing chamber between the base plate (1) and lid (4), characterised in that the capsule receptacle (3) has at least one raised area (8) that can be brought into contact with one surface of a beverage capsule.
US08844425B2 Recoil apparatus for firearm
A recoil mechanism for an auto-loading firearm, having a gas-operated action bar assembly. One or more compression springs are used, mounted on associated retaining rods contained in a stationary orientation on the firearm. The springs are linked to the firearm's gas system at one end, and bear against stops affixed to ends of the spring retaining rods. The entire mechanism is contained within a forward grip mounted on the firearm, the grip optionally being provided with mounting rails.
US08844423B1 Blowback bolt upper receiver and barrel assembly
Disclosed herein is a modified upper receiver assembly and method of assembly, which in one form is operatively configured to be fitted to a conventional lower receiver of a rifle so the user can use their normal lower receiver having a pistol grip, trigger assembly and butt stock. The upper receiver is configured to provide a blowback bolt assembly of larger mass than would be possible with similar density materials of a bolt fitted within an upper receiver conventionally made for said lower receiver.
US08844421B2 Small glass cutting wheel
A small glass cutting wheel for producing a scribed predetermined breaking line, wherein the cutting wheel has a radial peripheral line which defines an outer periphery of the wheel and which lies in a main plane of the wheel and at least partially forms a cutting edge. The cutting edge includes cutting teeth which are circumferentially spaced from each other by intermediate tooth spaces and the height and/or circumferential extension of the cutting teeth exceeds a surface roughness. A small glass cutting wheel for manufacturing flat displays can be manufactured with an improved edge quality so that rejected glass plate pieces can be reduced. At least a part or preferably all intermediate tooth spaces include a cutting edge. Preferably, the cutting edges of the intermediate tooth space and the cutting edges of the teeth are arranged approximately in the same main plane of the small wheel.
US08844416B2 Lattice cutting machine
A lattice cutting or slicing machine includes a multi-knife lattice cutting plate mounted in-line along an hydraulic flow path through which vegetable products such as potatoes are propelled in single file by a hydraulic fluid such as water. The lattice cutting plate is orbitally driven for engaging in succession each of the multiple knives thereon with the vegetable product to form lattice cut slices wherein successive generally corrugated cuts are angularly oriented typically perpendicular to each other, and further wherein the depths or troughs of the corrugated cuts on opposite sides of each slice intersect in the preferred form to define a pattern of corrugations interrupted by small openings.
US08844411B2 Apparatus for machining shaft-shaped workpieces
A machining apparatus for a shaft-type workpiece has a housing or frame defining a pair of spaced and upright side walls and a vertical front wall bridging the side walls. Vertical guides on one of the side walls carry a vertically shiftable headstock and tailstock capable of rotating a workpiece about an upright axis. Horizontal guides on the front wall carry a turret adapted to hold first machining tools and horizontally shiftable for engagement of the first tools with a workpiece held and rotated by the headstock and tailstock. A holder on the other of the side walls can hold a workpiece with an end of the workpiece exposed so that a second tool can engage and machine the exposed end of the workpiece.
US08844402B2 Crank handle apparatus with fold-away handle
A crank handle apparatus with a fold-away handle and a rotation locking mechanism. The apparatus includes an arm, a fold-away handle attached to a first end of the arm, and a crank wheel attached to a second end of the arm. The fold-away handle in a stored position can be moved to an operating position by un-folding the handle. The handle further includes a ring that can be pulled after un-folding the handle so that an index pin located inside the second end of the arm along a first axis enables rotation of the crank wheel along a second axis. The ring can be pulled to move the index pin along with the fold-away handle to secure the fold-away handle against folding back during operation of the crank handle apparatus.
US08844398B2 Three-axis robotic system with linear bearing supports
A three-axis robotic system. On the first and second axes, respective linear bearings have movable carriages, and backbone-free linear bases acting as exclusive support or linear bearing supports. A first motor is mounted to the first linear bearing support and coupled to the first carriage. The second linear bearing support is attached at one end to the first carriage and may be orthogonal to the first linear bearing support. A second motor is mounted to the second linear bearing support and coupled to the second carriage. A third axis member is attached to the second carriage. The third axis member may be orthogonal to the first and second linear bearing supports. A third carriage is slidable on the third axis member. A third motor is mounted to the third axis member and coupled to the third carriage. Each respective motor and carriage may be coupled by a belt or leadscrew.
US08844384B2 Pressure-sensitive sensor production method and pressure-sensitive sensor
Two electrode wires longitudinally provided along the inner surface of an elastic insulating member having a hollow portion are exposed from said elastic insulating member, the resistive element comprising a resistor body and the resistive element's lead wires is formed into a U-letter shape, said two electrode wires exposed from said elastic insulating member and said resistive element's lead wires are electrically connected via one metal plate, and a portion wherein one of said two electrode wires and one of the lead wires extending from both ends of said resistor body are electrically connected and a portion wherein the other one of said two electrode wires and the other one of the lead wires extending from both ends of said resistor body are electrically connected are separated by cutting said one metal plate.
US08844383B2 Pressure detection device
A pressure detection device includes a connection seat, a pressure transducer connected to the connection seat, and an overload protection member connected to the connection seat. The pressure transducer includes a housing and a detection sleeve received in the housing. The housing is mounted on the connection seat. The overload protection member is positioned above the detection sleeve. A buffering space is formed between the overload protection member and the detection sleeve, so that the overload protection member can bear an amount of exerted pressure when being overloaded.
US08844380B2 Torque sensor
A torque sensor has a magnetic sensor, which is composed of a first magnetic detecting element, a second magnetic detecting element and a comparator. The first magnetic detecting element outputs an output signal of a provisional detection value, while the second magnetic detecting element outputs an output signal of a reference value. The comparator compares the provisional detection value and the reference value and outputs the provisional detection value as an authorized detection value, when a difference value between the provisional detection value and the reference value is smaller than a predetermined threshold value.
US08844378B2 Load weight determining apparatus and load weight determining method for electric chain block
A load weight determining apparatus and method for an electric chain block having a lifting-lowering motor and an inverter controller. The lifting-lowering motor rotates a sheave to wind up and unwind a chain engaging the sheave. The load weight determining apparatus has a current detecting element detecting a motor current supplied to the lifting-lowering motor from the inverter controller, and a load weight determining unit. A torque current is calculated from the motor current detected by the load weight determining unit, and a variation cycle of the torque current is calculated. An average torque current value over a period of time corresponding to the variation cycle is calculated, and the average torque current value is compared with a set threshold to perform load weight determination.
US08844376B2 Multi-degree of freedom transducer
A multi-degree of freedom transducer for converting manually applied forces and torques into electrical signals, and configured to be fixed to a base object. The transducer comprises a handle bar having two ends and a first longitudinal direction, and a supporting assembly suitable for fixing the two ends of the handle bar to the base object. The supporting assembly comprising a frame structure at each of the ends of the handle bar, wherein each of the frame structures comprises at least two measuring beams. At least one of the measuring beams includes a second longitudinal direction and at least one other of the measuring beams includes a third longitudinal direction. Each of the at least two measuring beams comprises two strain gauges configured to sense strain in the third longitudinal direction and arranged on two different, non-parallel side surfaces of each of the at least two measuring beams.
US08844375B2 Mechanical force components sensing system and an associated method thereof for a magnetically encoded device
A system includes a device and a contactless inductive force sensing system. The device includes a first band having a first magnetically encoded region with a first magnetic polarity spaced apart from a second magnetically encoded region having a second magnetic polarity. The device further includes a second band having a third magnetically encoded region with the second magnetic polarity spaced apart from a fourth magnetically encoded region having the first magnetic polarity. The contactless inductive force sensing system is used for measuring one or more mechanical force components of the device and generating a mechanical force component signal.
US08844372B2 Vortex flow meter
A vortex flow meter that senses the alternating pressure variations generated by a fixed vortex shedding generator. The alternating pressure variations of the vortices within the rows on each side of the vortex shedding generator act upon flexible elements producing forces on long columns that are transmitted to remotely located piezoelectric force sensors. The alternating forces upon the two columns are used to determine the passage of a vortex and thereby the flow. Improved output signal by minimizing loss of parasitic energy. 97% of the available signal is applied to the piezoelectric force sensors as compared to conventional 60%. Process influences such as vibration in all planes and pumping pulsations are equal and opposing and are rejected by the sensor. A capability of operating at extreme process temperatures is assured for the high temperature of the process is dissipated to the environment along the long columns. Reliability of operation is assured for the sensor has no process seals and is easily replaced by technicians, without interrupting flow or venting process. Improved process containment is realized with construction having a high safety factor and multiple stages of process containment. Wafer form reduces installation costs and an optional redundant sensor improves reliability of operation, decreases pumping losses, and only requires one K-factor. Process up-time is assured with an economical redundant sensor.
US08844370B1 Electromagnetic flow meter having a driver circuit including a current transducer
An electromagnetic flow meter (EMFM) accurately measures both the complete flow rate and the dynamically fluctuating flow rate of a fluid by applying a unipolar DC voltage to excitation coils for a predetermined period of time, measuring the electric potential at a pair of electrodes, determining a complete flow rate and independently measuring the dynamic flow rate during the “on” cycle of the DC excitation, and correcting the measurements for errors resulting from galvanic drift and other effects on the electric potential. The EMFM can also correct for effects from the excitation circuit induced during operation of the EMFM.
US08844369B2 Concentration independent modulation of local micromechanics in a fibrin gel
An apparatus and method for providing a gradient strain to an extracellular matrix to induce mechanotransduction. The gradient strain can be produced by adhering the extracellular matrix to a post and the walls of a sample holder, and then rotating the post and the sample holder. This strain can result in increased stiffness of the extracellular matrix with very little loss of pore size.
US08844365B2 Measuring biological tissue
A tissue measurement system includes a clamp, a measuring head, and a deflection sensor. The clamp includes a first plate and a second plate releasably engageable with one another to secure a substantially planar biological tissue. In the engaged position, the first and second plates define at least a portion of a test section along which a portion of the secured substantially planar biological tissue is disposed. The measuring head is movable toward the test section and into contact with the portion of the substantially planar biological tissue disposed along the test section. The deflection sensor is responsive to movement of the biological tissue contacted by the measuring head.
US08844364B2 Quality management method, quality management gauge, and quality management gauge set for screw component
A management torque value smaller than a specified torque value is defined beforehand, and a screw ring-form, plug management gauge (11), which is capable of being screwed with plug (3), is prepared. Gauge (11) is provided with marked lines (14a, 14b) showing upper and lower limit positions of tolerance of the orientation of ground electrode (33) when plug (3) and gauge (11) have been screwed with each other. When plug (3) and gauge (11) have been screwed with each other and tightened at the management torque value, suitability of the phase position in the rotational direction is evaluated and managed by whether or not ground electrode (33) of plug (3) is in a range of marked lines (14a, 14b) showing the upper and lower limit positions of the tolerance. With this, it becomes possible to conduct a phase management with consideration of the crushing deformation characteristics of the gasket even with a torque lower than the specified tightening torque.
US08844359B2 Apparatus for noninvasive measurement of properties of a fluid flowing in a tubing having a smaller inner diameter passage
Apparatus for non-invasive measuring of the sound velocity of a fluid flowing in a tubing having a small internal diameter for the fluid passage as compared to the tubing wall thickness and having points of two different and known transverse length with a sensor mounted at each point and a delay line adjacent to the tubing at each point. Each sensor is connected to a circuit that provides ultrasonic energy signals that are transmitted through the tubing walls, the flowing fluid and the delay line to be reflected back to the sensor from which the round trip transit time of the signals is measured and the sound velocity calculated from the two measured round trip transit times and the differential between the known transverse lengths.
US08844358B2 Hearing-test method
The usefulness and sensitivity of a hearing-test method that can be performed over the Internet should be improved. To this end, it is proposed that meaningless syllables, so-called logatomes, are presented to a test person in fluctuating interference noise. Hence, the test can be offered internationally without change and there is no need to calibrate a computer used by the test person.
US08844357B2 Yaw-rate sensor and method for operating a yaw-rate sensor
A yaw-rate sensor includes: a substrate having a main extension plane for detecting a yaw rate about a first axis extending parallel to the main extension plane; a first Coriolis element; a second Coriolis element; a third Coriolis element; and a fourth Coriolis element. The first Coriolis element and the fourth Coriolis element are drivable in the same direction parallel to a second axis extending parallel to the main extension plane and perpendicularly to the first axis. The first Coriolis element and the second Coriolis element are drivable in opposite directions parallel to the second axis. The first Coriolis element and the third Coriolis element are drivable in opposite directions parallel to the second axis.
US08844348B2 Gas flow rate measurement device
Provided is a highly accurate, highly reliable gas flow rate measurement device that provides an enlarged temperature range over which the resolution at a high temperature and at a low temperature can be increased to achieve high accuracy no matter whether the characteristics of a gas temperature detection element are nonlinear. The gas flow rate measurement device includes a plurality of resistors that are disposed in a gas flow path, a gas flow rate detection circuit that outputs a gas flow rate detection signal in accordance with the flow rate of a gas flowing in the gas flow path by detecting a current flowing in the resistors or by detecting a voltage generated in accordance with the current, and a gas temperature detection element 1 that detects the temperature of the gas in the gas flow path. The gas flow rate detection circuit includes signal conversion means for converting a signal output from the gas temperature detection element to a signal that has a predetermined maximum output and a predetermined minimum output and is linear within a predetermined temperature range.
US08844343B2 Apparatus for diagnosing exhaust gas recirculation and method thereof
An exhaust gas recirculation diagnosis device may include an EGR module that supplies an intake manifold with exhaust gas from an exhaust manifold, a MAP (manifold absolute pressure) sensor that measures pressure of the intake manifold, and a control portion that controls the EGR module such that the flow rate of the exhaust gas that is supplied from the exhaust manifold to the intake manifold is controlled by stages and monitors the value of the MAP sensor in a fuel cut off condition to diagnose whether the EGR module is faulty. The exhaust gas recirculation diagnosis device uses MAP sensor to perform exhaust gas recirculation and to diagnose the fault of the exhaust gas recirculation device.
US08844342B2 Air flow measuring device
An air flow measuring device includes a housing, a sensor, and a throttle that is provided on an outer wall surface of the housing. The throttle merges together a bypass-passing flow and an outside-passing flow, and guides the merged flow toward the downstream side with the merged flow narrowed. The throttle includes two raised portions and a cover that bridges between the two raised portions and is opposed to the outer wall surface of the housing. The cover includes an inner surface exposed to the throttle, and an outer surface exposed to outside of the throttle. A peripheral border of the cover includes an upstream edge which defines the outer surface on the upstream side. At least a region of the outer surface including the upstream edge is swollen more outwardly in a shape of a projecting curved surface further on the downstream side.
US08844332B2 Device for the superplastic forming of a blank
A device for the superplastic forming of a blank, in a mould with a lower and an upper mould, into a component. The blank in the mould can be subjected to pressure and temperature, and the blank has perforations, at least in some regions. The lower mould is formed at least partly with a permeable, in particular a gas permeable, drainage layer. As a consequence of the drainage layer, a blank with perforations can be formed directly, i.e., without further aids such as, e.g., a means of sealing, etc. and/or supplementary production operations, in the course of a superplastic forming process into a component, in particular into a suction component for an active aerodynamic surface of an aircraft, with a complex three-dimensional spatial shape. A simple, cost-effective and reliable process is enabled suitable for large production runs of components, which may be spherically curved in at least some regions.
US08844329B2 Security device for electronic components
A locking cable device which inhibits the theft of computer equipment. The security device combines a scissor clip designed to connect to the built-in security slot in computer equipment, a cable, and a lock. They are combined by way of a dual-action lock, with the first action capable of engaging and disengaging the scissor clip from the computer equipment, and the second action capable of separately disengaging the security cable to allow it to pass through other equipment or fasteners to allow the device to secure multiple pieces of computer equipment.
US08844328B2 Door of a household electrical appliance
An improvement in the door of a household electrical appliance which comprises a bipartite rotary door containing an outer door (10), an intermediary door (20) disposed behind the outer door (10), and an inner rotary door (30). In the second embodiment, the improvement in the door of a household electrical appliance comprises a bipartite tilt door containing an outer door (10), an intermediary tilt door (60) disposed between the outer door (10) and am inner door (70).
US08844327B2 Control method of a laundry machine
A laundry machine and a control method thereof are provided in which laundering ability may be improved while also improving efficiency and noise/vibration. The laundry machine employs a plurality of drum motions by varying drum rotational speed, drum rotational direction, and drum starting and stopping point, to provide different motion of laundry items in the drum.
US08844318B2 Coaxial economizer assembly and method
A coaxial economizer for use in a chiller system comprising an inner housing and an outer housing having a common longitudinal axis. The outer housing has an inlet for receiving a fluid from a upstream compressor stage of a multistage compressor and an outlet for conveying a fluid to a downstream compressor stage of a multistage compressor. A flow chamber forms a fluid flow path about the inner housing. A flash chamber is coterminous with the flow chamber and flashes fluid in a liquid state to a gas state. A flow passage between said flash chamber and the flow chamber for conveying a flashed gas from the flash chamber to the flow chamber; wherein the flashed gas conveyed from the flash chamber and the fluid received from the inlet of the outer housing mix along the fluid flow path toward the outlet of the outer housing.
US08844317B2 Compressor and refrigerating machine having the same
Disclosed are a compressor and a refrigerating machine having the same, wherein a bearing member (ball bearing) is installed between both thrust bearing surfaces and an elastic member is disposed between the bearing member and at least one of the thrust bearing surfaces so as to allow a rolling contact between the ball bearing and the thrust bearing surface or a washer, thereby reducing a frictional loss at the thrust bearing surface and enhancing the performance of the compressor.
US08844314B2 Clear ice making system and method
A clear ice making system and method utilizes an ice tray including a plurality of ice forming cavities extending into a fluid supply cavity. Fluid supplied to the fluid supply cavity flows into each of the plurality of ice forming cavities and out through respective fluid outlets located in a bottom portion of the ice forming cavities to a fluid outlet chamber below. Cooled ice forming members extend into respective ice forming cavities. Fluid is continuously cycled through the ice forming cavities and around the ice forming members during an ice making event such that clear ice pieces gradually form on each of the ice forming members. During an ice harvest event, ice forming members are heated to release formed ice pieces, and the ice pieces are transferred from a fresh food compartment of a refrigerator to an ice storage bucket located in a freezer compartment of the refrigerator.
US08844312B2 Method of operating ice making machine
A method of operating an ice making machine efficiently provides clean ice blocks. A special water-discharge operation which is performed when an ice storage switch (TS) provided at an ice storage chamber (16) storing ice blocks (M) separated in a deicing operation detects that the ice storage chamber (16) is full of ice discharges the ice-making water from the ice-making water tank (20) via water discharge means (44) by releasing a water discharge valve (DV) provided at the water discharge means (44). Then, the special water-discharge operation is terminated by closing the water discharge valve (DV) when a preset duration time (T) passes after a float switch (FS) provided at the ice-making water tank (20) detects an ice-making completion water level (LWL) of the ice-making water in the ice-making water tank (20) after discharge of the ice-making water to outside is started.
US08844308B2 Cascade refrigeration system with secondary chiller loops
A refrigeration system includes a first portion having a primary loop and a secondary loop operably coupled by a first chiller, The primary loop circulates a refrigerant through the first chiller to provide cooling to a coolant in the secondary loop. The secondary loop has a supply portion and a return portion, the supply portion circulates the coolant to one or more temperature-controlled storage devices operating at a first temperature. A second portion has a primary loop and at least one secondary loop operably coupled by the second chiller. The primary loop circulates a refrigerant through the second chiller to provide cooling to coolant in the secondary loop. The secondary loop has a supply portion and a return portion, the supply portion circulates the coolant to one or more temperature-controlled storage devices operating at a second temperature. The return portion of the secondary loop of the first portion and the return portion of the secondary loop of the second portion share a common return header.
US08844307B2 Appliance with a water filtration system
An appliance includes a main body, and a door movably attached to the main body. The door includes a front, a back, a side surface extending from the front to the back, and a recess formed on the side surface. The appliance further includes a water filtration system including a filter that is disposed in the recess.
US08844304B2 Pool heating system and method
A pool heating system is disclosed. The pool heating system includes, in some embodiments, an immersed condenser coil. In some embodiments, the immersed condenser coil is immersed in a pool of water receiving hot refrigerant gas at high pressure from an outdoor unit, transferring heat to water in the pool, condensing the gas and transmitting condensed refrigerant to the outdoor unit. The system also includes an outdoor unit. In some embodiments, the outdoor unit includes a compressor, an expansion valve, an evaporator, and a fan.
US08844300B2 Refrigerant pipe washing method, air conditioner updating method, and air conditioner
A method is disclosed that makes it possible to reduce the amount of refrigerant used and shorten the amount of time over which the new air conditioner must be run in a refrigerant pipe washing mode when an air conditioner that used a mineral-oil-based refrigerant oil is updated to or replaced with an air conditioner using an HFC refrigerant as the working refrigerant and the existing refrigerant piping is reused as is. Thus, the existing refrigerant piping of the air conditioner that used a mineral-oil-based refrigerant oil is reused in the air conditioner that uses an HFC refrigerant as the working refrigerant, the by washing the refrigerant piping using a cleaning agent comprising an HFC refrigerant containing at least 40 wt % of R32 to remove residual refrigerant oil in the refrigerant piping.
US08844297B2 Gas turbine and method for maintaining and inspecting the same
A gas turbine includes a gas turbine body in which a rotor is rotated with the energy of combustion gas produced by combustion of fuel to take out rotational energy from the rotor, an inlet casing that is attached to the gas turbine body and that guides the air to a compressor section compressing the air, an air intake chamber that is connected to the inlet casing and that guides the air taken in from the atmosphere to the gas turbine body, and a notch so formed in the air intake chamber as to cover the entire range where the rotor passes or exists when the rotor is moved.
US08844296B2 Main engine start by means of an aircraft air conditioning system
An air conditioning system in an aircraft is provided. The system comprises at least one air cycle air-conditioning pack with a compressor comprising a bleed air outlet and with a compressed-air line connected to the bleed air connection, which compressed-air line is connectable to a starter turbine for a main engine. With the use of air from a compressor of an air conditioning pack it is not necessary to switch off the air conditioning pack; bleed air removal from the auxiliary power units becomes obsolete; and, since there is no unnecessary discharge of compressed air from a bleed air system, noise pollution on the ground is reduced.
US08844294B2 Gas turbine engine having slim-line nacelle
A gas turbine engine according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, a nacelle assembly that includes an inlet lip section and an inlet internal diffuser section downstream of the inlet lip section. A variable area fan nozzle is positioned near an aft segment of the nacelle assembly, the variable area fan nozzle adaptable to move between a first position having a first discharge airflow area and a second position having a second discharge airflow area greater than the first discharge airflow area. At least one boundary layer control device is positioned near one of the inlet lip section and the inlet internal diffuser section. A controller is configured to move the variable area fan nozzle from the first position to the second position and to actuate the at least one boundary layer control device to introduce an airflow in response to an operability condition.
US08844293B2 Fuel system for gas turbine engine
A method and apparatus for heating fuel in an aircraft gas turbine engine, for example to provide fuel anti-icing to the fuel, comprises directing a fuel flow through a heat exchanger associated with a generator power conditioning unit as a sole means for providing anti-icing heating to fuel supplied for engine combustion. The method and apparatus permits the heat exchanger to heat the fuel sufficiently so that other dedicated heating means may be unnecessary.
US08844285B2 Two-stage supercharging exhaust turbocharger
A two-stage supercharging exhaust turbocharger includes: a high-pressure-stage supercharger having a high-pressure turbine driven by exhaust gas discharged from an exhaust manifold of an engine; a low-pressure-stage supercharger having a low-pressure turbine driven by the exhaust gas used to drive the high-pressure-stage supercharger, the high-pressure-stage supercharger and the low-pressure-stage supercharger being arranged in series in an exhaust gas passageway; and an exhaust gas control valve configured to selectively change flow rates of the exhaust gas passageways of the high-pressure-stage supercharger and the low-pressure-stage supercharger, wherein an exhaust manifold incorporating casing is configured by integrally forming the exhaust manifold, a high-pressure turbine housing of the high-pressure-stage supercharger, and a valve casing accommodating the exhaust gas control valve.
US08844277B2 Compressed air energy storage system utilizing two-phase flow to facilitate heat exchange
A compressed-air energy storage system according to embodiments of the present invention comprises a reversible mechanism to compress and expand air, one or more compressed air storage tanks, a control system, one or more heat exchangers, and, in certain embodiments of the invention, a motor-generator. The reversible air compressor-expander uses mechanical power to compress air (when it is acting as a compressor) and converts the energy stored in compressed air to mechanical power (when it is acting as an expander). In certain embodiments, the compressor-expander comprises one or more stages, each stage consisting of pressure vessel (the “pressure cell”) partially filled with water or other liquid. In some embodiments, the pressure vessel communicates with one or more cylinder devices to exchange air and liquid with the cylinder chamber(s) thereof. Suitable valving allows air to enter and leave the pressure cell and cylinder device, if present, under electronic control.
US08844276B2 Exhaust muffler for general-purpose engine
An exhaust muffler disposed in proximity to a cylinder of a general-purpose engine is provided, in which an exhaust muffler for a general-purpose engine is formed from a muffler main body connected to a cylinder of a general-purpose engine via an exhaust pipe and disposed adjacent to the cylinder, a partition member that divides the interior of the muffler main body into a first muffler chamber communicating with the exhaust pipe and a second muffler chamber communicating with an exhaust outlet of the muffler main body, and an exhaust cooling pipe exposed outside the muffler main body while providing communication between the first muffler chamber and the second muffler chamber. This enables exhaust gas to be cooled effectively by passing though the exhaust cooling pipe when moving from the first muffler chamber to the second muffler chamber, thus enhancing muffling by reducing the pressure of the exhaust gas.
US08844272B2 Particulate filter regeneration during engine shutdown
Various systems and method are described for controlling an engine having an exhaust system which includes a particulate filter. One example method comprises, after shutting down the engine and spinning down the engine to rest, operating a vacuum pump to draw fresh air through the exhaust system to an intake system, and regenerating at least a portion of the particulate filter during the engine rest.
US08844269B2 Aftertreatment system and method for pre-decomposed reductant solution
There is disclosed a method and system for pressurizing a reductant solution from a reductant storage device and superheating the pressurized reductant solution. The superheated pressurized reductant solution at least partially decomposes in the heat exchanger and/or a decomposition chamber before it is released into an exhaust system. The at least partially decomposed reductant solution is delivered to the exhaust system upstream of the SCR catalyst.
US08844268B2 Abnormality detection apparatus for exhaust gas purification apparatus and abnormality detection method for exhaust gas purification apparatus
It is determined quickly whether there is a shortage in reducing agent supplied to an NOx selective reduction catalyst. After it is determined that a quantity of reducing agent equal to or larger than a predetermined quantity is absorbed in the NOx selective reduction catalyst on the assumption that there is no abnormality in reducing agent supply unit, the supply of a quantity of reducing agent needed to reduce a quantity of NOx flowing into the NOx selective reduction catalyst is started. A determination of an abnormality in the reducing agent supply unit is made based on the NOx removal rate after the lapse of a predetermined period of time since the start of the supply of reducing agent. The NOx removal rate becomes lower when there is an abnormality in the reducing agent supply unit.
US08844265B2 Turbine section of high bypass turbofan
A turbofan engine has an engine case and a gaspath through the engine case. A fan has a circumferential array of fan blades. The engine further has a compressor, a combustor, a gas generating turbine, and a low pressure turbine section. A speed reduction mechanism couples the low pressure turbine section to the fan. A bypass area ratio is greater than about 6.0. The low pressure turbine section airfoil count to bypass area ratio is below about 170.
US08844263B2 Aircraft turbine engine and use of such a turbine engine
An aircraft wing turbine engine is designed to increase the ground clearance for larger modernized engines mounted under the wings of an airfoil. To this end, the aircraft wing turbine engine includes a hot flow generator with a turbine engine rotating about a first central axis, a cold flow blower rotating about a second central axis, and a pod surrounding the hot flow generator and cold flow blower. The first and second central axes are offset and non-collinear with each other such that the cold flow blower can be moved farther away from the ground to increase the ground clearance of the turbine engine.
US08844262B2 Exhaust for a gas turbine engine
A gas turbine engine is provided having an offtake passage that in one form is capable of extracting a bypass flow from the engine. The airflow traversing the offtake passage is introduced to an exhaust flow of the gas turbine engine through an offtake outlet. The offtake outlet includes an airflow member that is moveable. A nozzle is also provided for exhaust from the gas turbine engine. In one form the nozzle includes moveable duct members. Flows exiting the offtake outlet and the nozzle can be combined after passing the airflow member and the moveable duct members, respectively.
US08844260B2 Low calorific fuel combustor for gas turbine
A low calorific value fuel-fired can combustor for a gas turbine include a generally cylindrical housing, and a generally cylindrical liner disposed coaxially within the housing to define with the housing a radial outer flow passage for combustion air, the liner also defining inner combustion and a dilution zone, the dilution zone being axially distant a closed housing end relative to the combustion zone. A nozzle assembly disposed at the closed housing end includes an air blast nozzle and surrounding swirl vanes. An impingement cooling sleeve coaxially disposed in the combustion air passage between the housing and the liner impingement cools the portion of the liner defining the combustion zone. The combustion liner has an L/D ratio of in the range 1≦L/D≦4, and a ratio of the combustion zone volume (m3) to heat energy flow rate Q (MJ/sec) in the range 0.0026≦V/Q≦0.018.
US08844256B2 Device for transmitting a force, in particular a carrying handle
A device for transmitting a force, in particular for carrying a load, including two curved arch segments which lie opposite each other and which are connected to each other by two straight limbs that are equally long is provided. The curved arch segments and the straight limbs are produced continuously from one material at the transition points of the arch segments and limbs. A force application and exertion occurs via two bolt-like structural elements which have an outer contour that is adapted to the corresponding curved arch segments and which are to be arranged within the two arch segments in order to transmit the force. The transition of the curvature at the transition points from the limbs to the arch segments and along the respective arch segments is constant.
US08844253B2 Front baffle assembly for a lawn mower
A front baffle assembly (1) for a lawn mower (30) is provided. The front baffle assembly (1) is adapted for attachment to a lawn mower chassis (2), and comprises a stopper (5a, 5b) configured to abut against an upper side of the chassis (2) and a front baffle (4) configured to abut against a lower side of the chassis (2). The front baffle assembly (1) comprises a catch element (6a, 6b) which protrudes downwardly from the stopper (5a, 5b) and is arranged to extend through the chassis (2) and beyond a lower side of the front baffle (4). The front baffle assembly (1) comprises a front axle (7) arranged to be received between the catch element (6a, 6b) and the lower side of the front baffle (4) to clamp the chassis (2) between the stopper (5a, 5b) and the front baffle (4).
US08844250B2 Sealing device and method for producing sealed packages of a pourable food product
A sealing device for producing sealed packages from a tube of packaging material fed along a path and filled with a pourable food product, comprising: a frame; a pair of jaws movable cyclically with respect to the frame and along part of the path to grip the tube; ultrasonic sealing means carried by a first jaw to seal the tube; and power means including a primary winding fixed to the frame and connectable to an electric energy source, and a secondary winding carried by the first jaw, supplying the sealing means, and receiving electric energy by electromagnetic induction from the primary winding as the first jaw travels past the primary winding; and the device having transformer means supplied by the electric energy source with a first voltage value, and supplying the primary winding with a second voltage value lower than the first voltage value.
US08844243B1 Method of connecting structural insulated building panels through connecting splines
An arbitrary structural insulated panel and an adjoining structural insulated panel, which include magnesium oxide boards as the exterior panels, can be connected together by a first spline and a second spline. The arbitrary structural insulated panel is first connected to a building floor foundation. Then the first spline and the second spline are adhered into the arbitrary structural insulated panel. The adjoining structural insulated panel is then secured to the arbitrary structural insulated panel as the first spline and the second spline engage with the adjoining structural insulated panel. A plurality of fasteners is used as the final step to further secure the arbitrary structural insulated panel and the adjoining structural insulated panel.
US08844241B2 Methods and apparatus for providing linings on concrete structures
Methods and apparatus are provided for lining one or more surfaces of concrete structures during fabrication thereof. A structure-lining apparatus comprises a plurality of structure-lining panels and a plurality of concrete-anchoring components. The panels, which may extend in longitudinal and transverse directions, are interconnected to one another in edge-to-edge relationship at their transverse edges to line at least a portion of the interior of the structural form. The concrete-anchoring components extend in an inward/outward direction from the panels. The concrete-anchoring components may: be integrally formed with the panels; connect to the panels via suitably configured connector components; and/or connect edge-adjacent panels to one another. The concrete-anchoring components may comprise concrete-anchoring features which may extend in the longitudinal and transverse directions (e.g. in a plane parallel to the panels) to provide concrete-anchoring surfaces. In particular embodiments, the concrete-anchoring features comprise a stem which extends in the inward/outward and longitudinal directions and, at a distance spaced apart from the panels in the inward/outward direction, one or more leaves which extend in the longitudinal and transverse directions to provide anchoring surfaces. Concrete is then poured into the form on an interior of the lining panels and allowed to solidify in the form. As the concrete solidifies, the concrete-anchoring components bond the lining panels to the resultant concrete structure.
US08844240B2 Method for treating soil
A method of effecting a stabilization and effecting a lifting of a portion of a footing of a building which includes the steps of effecting an introduction of water resistant plastics into soil and openings in the soil in the vicinity of the footing to seal these areas, then introducing a slow setting plastics catalysed monomer to beneath the footing at a very high pressure.
US08844233B2 Foam insulation board with edge sealer
Disclosed herein are embodiments of foam backing panels for use with lap siding and configured for mounting on a building. Also disclosed are lap siding assemblies and products of lap sidings. One such embodiment of the foam backing panel comprises a rear face configured to contact the building, a front face configured for attachment to the lap siding, alignment means for aligning the lap siding relative to the building, means for providing a shadow line, opposing vertical side faces, a top face extending between a top edge of the front face and rear face and a bottom face extending between a bottom edge of the front face and rear face. At least one of the faces includes a pre-installed adhesive for joining adjacent panels together.
US08844231B2 Shim device and method of floor leveling
A shim device and method of using the same are described in which the shim device includes a horizontal flange, a vertical web and a ledge web. The vertical web of the shim device includes a bottom end, a middle portion and a top end in which the bottom of the vertical web is attached to the horizontal flange such that the vertical web is aligned substantially perpendicular to the horizontal flange. The ledge web of the shim device is attached to the middle portion of the vertical web such that the ledge web is aligned substantially perpendicular to the vertical web and aligned substantially parallel to the horizontal flange. The method of using the same includes the steps of steps of applying, mounting and finishing the leveled floor.
US08844230B2 Building insulation system
A building insulation system for roofs and walls supported from the interior side of the building, which eliminates thermal bridges and bottom side ceiling fasteners to support the insulation system materials during the insulation and exterior sheeting process of the building construction. The insulation system creates an air gap space layer in roofs and in walls between the exterior wall and roof sheeting panels and the interior sheet material, which supports the insulation material layer. An air gap space enables active solar energy collection and its use to reduce the overall purchased energy for operation of the building. The insulation system preferably includes a support sheet material, a sheet material tensioning devices, an insulation material layer, insulation hanger retention devices, heat and air collection and distribution ducts, dampers, louvers, pipes, dehumidification and condensate collection devices used in the air gap layers of the building to improve the building energy efficiency.
US08844229B1 Channel anchor with insulation holder and anchoring system using the same
A channel anchoring system for cavity walls is disclosed and includes a channel anchor and veneer tie. The anchoring system is used in conjunction with building structures that have a masonry construction veneer anchored to a steel stud frame or a masonry backup wall. The channel anchoring system secures both the veneer and the insulation to the framing or backup wall. The channel anchor includes a pocket compartment for the insulation that provides a non-invasive means for securing the insulation, thereby maintaining the insulation integrity.
US08844225B2 Safety surfacing tile support
One embodiment of a safety surfacing tile comprises a top surface; a plurality of series of first members supporting the top surface and extending across a transverse length of the safety surfacing tile; a plurality of series of second members supporting the top surface and extending across a length of the safety surfacing tile perpendicular to the transverse length; and a grid of voids formed by the intersecting first and second members on an underside of the top surface, wherein the grid of voids absorbs impact energy from an object impacting the top surface.
US08844219B2 Primary framing system and a method of installation
A window framing system has multiple pieces that are components of a primary frame. The pieces are pre-formed, and may be assembled so as to build the frame at a job site. The pieces include a sub-frame and a base. The sub-frame has a corner to receive a glazing unit. The base is to be assembled with the sub-frame so as to secure the glazing unit in the corner. Other embodiments are also described and claimed.
US08844218B2 Aerogel window film system
An insulated glazing unit with a nanotechnology enhanced film for improved IGU insulating capability. The present invention makes use of a layered film or sheet system to further provide a double or triple pane window glazing unit sound, vibration, and thermal insulation with the option of allowing users to still view through the unit clearly.
US08844216B2 Support structures on roofs
This invention provides upper diverters which are used on support structures on roofs. Such upper diverter has a lower flange which interfaces with the respective roof panel, and an upstanding wall which extends up from the lower flange. The upper diverter diverts water, flowing down the roof, laterally away from the respective roof panel.
US08844210B2 Upmount overhead brackets for office partition systems
Brackets for an office partition system permit the off-modular attachment of articles of furniture, such as cabinets, above the upper edges of panels in the partition system. The width of the furniture article may be either equal to, less than, or greater than the width of an underlying panel. Also, the location of the furniture article may be adjusted relative to the underlying panels such that the location of the furniture article is not determined by the size or position of an underlying panel to which the furniture article is attached.
US08844209B1 Anchor pier for manufactured building
An anchor pier for supporting a manufactured building, in which the anchor pier includes having a shaft with a connector and a helical flight proximate a driving tip, with a brace member attached to the connector and to the manufactured building with a connector, to transfer loading between the manufactured building and the ground. A method of supporting a manufactured building is disclosed.
US08844207B2 Portable dance floor panel with floating magnet retention system
A portable dance floor system comprises a plurality of floor panels removably couplable together to form a dance floor assembly, with each floor panel comprising a perimeter frame circumscribing a core, and a dance floor surface substantially covering the frame and core. The frame has an extrusion with an outwardly facing channel having an opening, and an elongated cavity behind the channel. A plurality of bores can extend into the extrusion from a back of the extrusion, into the channel, and to the opening. A plurality of magnets can each be disposed in a different one of the plurality of bores. A retaining strip can be disposed in the elongated cavity and can hold the plurality of magnets in the plurality of bores between the retaining strip and the opening. The panel can include the core having an aluminum honeycomb between aluminum skins.
US08844204B2 Security door system
A revolving security door includes a drum defining a secure zone between door openings controlled by a revolving door disposed within the drum and wherein light curtain sensors and active infrared sensors may detect an intruder moving from a non-secure side of the doorway to the secure side and detect objects left behind in a secure zone. Methods of operation prevent persons or objects from passing from the non-secure side to the secure side of the doorway.
US08844198B2 Multilayer window lift rail, and apparatus and method for making the same
A multilayer window guiderail is disclosed. The window guiderail includes a rail portion having an outer edge, a rail surface and an opposing rear surface. The rail portion includes a core and an integral rail cover layer disposed on the core. The core includes a first polymer material and the rail cover layer includes a second polymer material. An apparatus for making a multilayer guiderail includes a plurality of die portions having respective cavity portions. The cavity portions are configured to define a die cavity having the shape of the guiderail, at least one of the die portions being a slidable die portion and at least one of the die portions being a fixed die portion. The parting surface of the slidable die portion is configured for sliding translation of its parting surface over the parting surface of the fixed die portion along a translation path.
US08844195B2 Fire shutter
A fire shutter for protecting an opening 10, such as a window 12, having one or more (typically two) fire resistant panels 20 and 21. The panels are hinged along a horizontal portion of the opening such that at least one of the panels can be utilized as an awning when open. The panel(s) have an insulating core that typically provides thermal insulation from the elements and increases fire resistance from fires (such as bushfires) to provide a fire rated shutter that meets the highest building fire standards.
US08844193B2 Apparatus for killing and removing ticks
An apparatus for killing and removing ticks from the skin of mammals which includes an aerosol canister. An environmentally safe refrigerant HFO-1234yf is carried within the aerosol canister. A mechanism is for dispensing the environmentally safe refrigerant from the aerosol canister directly onto a tick to immobilize and kill the tick. Another mechanism is for safely removing the dead tick from the skin of a mammal.
US08844191B2 Composite termite barrier
A composite pest barrier (10) comprising mesh sheeting (13) and a pest deterrent associated with the mesh sheeting. The mesh sheeting (13) typically comprises woven mesh sheeting. The pest deterrent comprises a pest resistant material. The pest deterrent may be associated with the mesh sheeting (13) in any suitable way. In one arrangement, the pest deterrent comprises a membrane (15) applied to the mesh sheeting, the membrane (15) carrying pest resistant material. In another arrangement, the pest deterrent comprises pest resistant material applied to the mesh sheeting (15). In yet another arrangement, the pest deterrent is incorporated into the mesh sheeting (15) itself.
US08844187B2 Weapon barrel
A weapon barrel of an automatic firearm contains a muzzle that is set into flexural oscillations by firing, with a damping device for damping the flexural oscillations by frictional processes between a radially projecting friction ring disposed on the muzzle and at least one friction element loaded by of a spring element. Wherein at least one friction element loaded by a separate spring element acts on both sides of the friction ring respectively and is supported so as to be axially movable relative to the muzzle.
US08844185B2 Buttstock assembly
A modular firearm comprising an adjustable modular buttstock assembly. The buttstock assembly can include a frame with a central opening. A comb assembly having a cheek piece and a butt plate assembly having a recoil pad each can be mounted to the frame by an adjustment apparatus. Each adjustment apparatus can include of a guide post and/or a threaded adjustment post each received in respective bores in the frame to adjust the positions of the cheek piece and recoil pad. The adjustment apparatus also can include a locking or engagement feature that can selectively increase the friction between the frame and the guide post and/or adjustment post, to help prevent the translation of the guide post and/or adjustment post in the bore in the frame to fix the comb assembly and butt plate assembly in desired positions with respect to the frame.
US08844182B2 Bolt assembly for a firearm
A bolt assembly for a firearm, wherein the bolt assembly is intended to move inside an inner cavity of a receiver of the firearm and comprises a body, a removable bolt head, at least one protruding element that tends to protrude elastically from the body, so that when allowed to protrude elastically unhindered, the bolt assembly cannot be inserted inside the inner cavity of the receiver. The connection of the bolt head to the body causes the protruding element to elastically contract, enough to allow the bolt assembly to be inserted inside the inner cavity of the receiver. Thus, a single elastic protruding element enables the user to be warned if trying to assemble the body without the bolt head into the receiver.
US08844181B2 Back-loading product dispensing hook
A back-loading display hook for the dispensing of products having limited shelf life, where the products are supplied in containers having enlarged tops and narrower necks. Spaced apart support rods, extend forwardly, spaced to accommodate the necks, while suspending the products by their tops. The inner ends of the product rods are spaced apart a greater distance, sufficient to receive the enlarged tops of the products and form a loading position. The products are loaded by moving the tops upward in the loading position, and then sliding them forward onto the narrower portions of the support rods. A stop element is associated with the load position, and is displaceable to allow upward loading of the products onto the support rods, while preventing rearward movement of products back into the load position. Optionally, the display hook may be disposed horizontally, or inclined to cause the products to advance forward by gravity.
US08844180B2 Electronic display mounting system
An electronic sign having slotted frame cabinets whereby each slotted frame cabinet can conveniently be attached to one or more vertically or horizontally positioned adjacent slotted frame cabinets by using connecting components which are generally located around the periphery of one or more slotted frame cabinets. Connecting components, including splice bars, splice plates, and mounting clamps, are aligned in, positioned along and secured to backing bars which are co-located in backing bar slots in one or more of the slotted frame cabinets. Lift eyes can be variably located in one or more lift eye slots. The use of externally located connecting components, which do not extend through the cabinetry, minimize the entry of environmental elements into the interior of the electronic sign. Multiple slotted frame cabinets can be connected without the removal of LED display panels.
US08844175B2 Wear assembly for excavating equipment
Wear members for use in excavating include a socket having a front stabilizing end that includes a top surface, a bottom surface and side surfaces. At least one of these surfaces is formed with a transverse, inward projection and extends axially substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the socket. The socket may include surfaces that generally correspond to exterior surfaces of a nose on which it may be mounted and on which it may be connected to excavating equipment.
US08844171B2 Article of footwear with a ball contacting surface
An article of footwear with a ball contacting surface is disclosed. The ball contacting surface includes a raised peak member at the top and gripping members along a medial side. The ball contacting surface enhances the ability of a wearer to kick a ball with a low trajectory and to control the ball.
US08844166B2 Insole having a vibrating device
Insole (1) intended to be placed removably in a shoe (8), said insole comprising a long and thin body (2) and a vibrating device (4) embedded in said body (2), said vibrating device (4) comprising an electric accumulator (12), a control system (14) and a vibration generator (16).
US08844164B2 Foldable protective overshoe and method of manufacturing
A protective overshoe has a collapsible upper portion attached to a stretchable lower portion with a collapsible sole. The collapsible sole may be coated directly on the lower portion of a fabric overshoe body. The coating may be applied by dipping the lower portion of the fabric overshoe body into a bath of liquid rubber. Separate toe and heel outsole portions may be provided on the rubber coated lower portion of the fabric overshoe body. The lower portion may further comprise a reinforcing heel insert which is adapted to clip on the heel of the wearer's shoe while providing the required form holding properties to maintain an unobstructed heel opening when the lower portion of the overshoe is longitudinally stretched.
US08844162B2 Device and method for removing fluids and/or solids
A device for removing fluids from particulate materials, including a container having a circular process chamber with a cylindrical external contour, an input device for inputting the materials into the process chamber, a discharge device for discharging the particulate materials freed of the fluid from the process chamber, a feed device for feeding a fluidizing agent from below into the process chamber, and at least one conditioning device for conditioning the fluidization agent in the direction of flow prior to the feed device.
US08844155B2 Hopper of injection molding machine
The invention relates to a hopper of an injection molding machine, which comprises a combined hopper, an electric heating air-blasting system and a temperature control system, wherein the combined hopper comprises two or more than two sub-hoppers; each sub-hopper is provided with an independent sub-feed inlet, an independent sub-discharge outlet and a branch air-blasting port capable of being controlled independently; all the sub-discharge outlets of the sub-hoppers are communicated with a thermostatic chamber arranged below the sub-discharge outlets; a main discharge outlet and a main air supply port are arranged at the lower part of the thermostatic chamber; and the thermostatic chamber and each sub-hopper are provided with independent temperature control systems respectively.
US08844153B2 Micrometer
A micrometer includes: a displacement detector that detects a displacement of a spindle; a display device that is rotatably attached to a fixed sleeve; and a control device that controls the display device. The display device includes: an image display section that displays an image including a measurement value based on the displacement detected by the displacement detector; a surface member that faces the image display section and has a touch surface; a position sensor that detects a position pressed on the touch surface; and a support member that supports the image display section, the surface member and the position sensor while the touch surface is exposed to an outside, the support member being rotatably attached to the fixed sleeve.
US08844151B2 Articulated arm
An articulated arm CMM comprises a plurality of transfer members, a plurality of articulation members connecting at least two transfer members to each other, a coordinate acquisition member at a distal end, and a base at a proximal end. At least two of the articulation members can include at least one encoder and the at least two encoders can both be enclosed within a single monoblock housing.
US08844150B2 Measuring machine provided with a block of concrete having the function of foundation or machine bed, and method for compensating the measuring errors due to deformations of the block
A co-ordinate measuring machine comprising a block of concrete with function of foundation or machine bed, and a plurality of linear deformation sensors embedded in the block or applied thereto and configured for detecting the deformations of the block itself for compensating the measuring errors of the machine resulting from said deformations.
US08844148B2 Direction determining method and apparatus using a triaxial electronic compass
A method of determining a direction of a triaxial electronic compass oriented in a specific direction by using the triaxial electronic compass and an inclination sensor, the method includes obtaining an elevation angle of the specific direction from the inclination sensor to switch a selection of two output values from the three output values to another selection of two output values therefrom; determining a geomagnetic aspect from the two output values; obtaining a rotational angle about an axis extending in the specific direction from the inclination sensor; calculating a deviation angle of the direction of the triaxial electronic compass which is caused by the selection switching, in accordance with the elevation angle, the geomagnetic aspect and the rotational angle; and correcting the direction of the triaxial electronic compass in accordance with the deviation angle.
US08844145B2 Razor handle for a retractable shaving cartridge and a razor comprising such a razor handle
A razor handle for a retractable shaving cartridge that includes an elongated body having a hollow housing provided with an opening at the front end of the body, and a shaving cartridge carrier movable between a shaving position and a non-shaving position. A release mechanism that includes an actuating member is provided to actuate the release mechanism so as to release a shaving cartridge. In addition, a control mechanism includes a control member for controlling the actuating member only when the shaving cartridge carrier is in the shaving position. The elongated body further includes a guide adapted for guiding the control member.
US08844142B2 Adjustable comb assembly for hair cutting appliance
An adjustable comb assembly, which is attachable to an electric hair cutting appliance of the type including opposing cutting blades defining a cutting edge margin for cutting hair, includes a plurality of teeth for regulating a haircut length resulting from the hair being cut by the cutting edge margin of the electric hair cutting appliance. The teeth are selectively movable relative to the cutting edge of the electric hair cutting appliance to any one of a substantially infinite number of different haircut length positions within a range from a maximum haircut length position, in which the comb assembly facilitates cutting hair to a maximum haircut length, to a minimum haircut length position, in which the comb assembly facilitates cutting hair to a minimum haircut length.
US08844138B2 Method for manufacturing dental prosthesis
A method for manufacturing a dental prosthesis is disclosed. The method includes a first step of photographing a patient's mouth with a dental cone beam CT, a second step of converting CT data photographed at the first step into a CAD file, a third step of designing a shape of the dental prosthesis with the CAD file using CAD software, a fourth step of correcting the shape of the designed prosthesis using occlusion simulation software, a fifth step of converting the shape of the prosthesis which is designed finally into manufacturing data, and a sixth step of transmitting the manufacturing data to a dental prosthesis manufacturing machine, thus manufacturing the dental prosthesis.
US08844136B2 Filling body
A filling body, comprising a plurality of plastic foils, which are undulated, wherein a plastic foil has a plurality of connecting elements for connecting a plastic foil to other plastic foils via a plurality of form-fitting connections. The filling body is configured such that two plastic foils are connected to a plastic foil pair, and plastic foil pairs are connected to other plastic foil pairs. The connecting elements are positioned on the plastic foils such that upon joining two plastic foils to a plastic foil pair, the still unconnected connecting elements can be joined into connecting element pairs on opposite sides of the two plastic foils. The connecting element pairs are located exclusively in the vicinity of the edges of the two plastic foil pairs.
US08844131B2 Leaf seal
A process is provided for forming a leaf-spacer pair for use in a leaf seal which effects a seal between two components. The process includes the steps of: (a) providing a leaf section which maintains, in the leaf seal, wiping contact with one of the components, and a root section from which the leaf section extends and which, in the leaf seal, is fixed relative to the other component, the leaf section and the root section being formed from a first sheet of material of substantially uniform thickness; (b) providing a spacer formed from a second sheet of material, the spacer being physically separate from the leaf section and the root section; and (c) fastening the spacer to the root section to form a leaf-spacer pair in which the spacer overlays the root section and remains fixed relative thereto on handling of the leaf-spacer pair.
US08844128B2 Method for manufacturing electrophoretic display device
A method for manufacturing an electrophoretic display device includes forming partition walls for defining a plurality of pixel regions on a lower substrate; filling charged particles into the plurality of pixel regions; filling a pixel solvent in the plurality of pixel regions having been filled with the charged particles; and attaching the lower substrate and an upper substrate to each other.
US08844127B2 Apparatus having a connector with isolated conductive paths
An apparatus includes a pair of connectors, two or more conductive paths formed in each connector in the pair of connectors, and a shroud encompassing at least a portion of the pair of connectors. The pair of connectors includes a first connector and a second connector. The first connector is substantially more flexible than the second connector, and each connector in the pair of connectors includes a bulkhead. Each of the two or more conductive paths in each connector in the pair of connectors is electrically isolated from all other conductive elements in the pair of connectors. The shroud is located between the bulkheads and disposed about the pair of connectors when the pair of connectors are coupled together electrically.
US08844126B2 Method of manufacturing an electrical connector
Electrical resistance between a male part and a female part through a canted spring is disclosed using mathematical modeling. Increase or decrease in resistance can be quickly analyzed by looking at the equivalence resistance and the number of contacts at the input side, the output side, or both. The number of contacts may also be created by forming a dimple having a discontinuity.
US08844124B2 Operation instruction display technique for an electronic component mounting system
An electronic component mounting system and method is disclosed that can provide accurate operation instruction to a machine operator. The electronic component mounting system comprises a plurality of machines interlinked in series. A main screen, making up an operation instruction screen, is displayed on a display panel belonging to an operation target machine to be operated by the machine operator while a first sub-screen and a second sub-screen of the operation instruction screen are respectively displayed on display panels belonging to two adjacent machines placed adjacently on both sides of the operation target machine among the plurality of machines. Thus, even when a unit device has a small width such that a size restriction is imposed a display panel, accurate operation instruction, with a sufficient amount of information, can be provided by displaying the operation instruction screen on multiple display panels.
US08844122B2 Assembly fixture
An assembly fixture is disclosed. The assembly fixture is utilized for assembling a back combined pogo pin which comprises a barrel, a pin head, an elastic element, and a rear stopper. Said assembly fixture comprises a retaining member and a pressing member. The retaining member has an accommodating hole disposed thereon for accommodating the pogo pin that is not assembled yet. The pressing member is mounted on an upper fixing plate and disposed opposite to the retaining member. The pogo pin is assembled all together when the pressing member pushes the unassembled pogo pin. The assembly fixture is simple and can assemble the back combined pogo pin steadily and quickly.
US08844120B1 Method for providing a magnetic recording transducer including an assist pole having surfaces angled with respect to the ABS
A method for providing a magnetic transducer including an underlayer is provided. The method comprises providing a recessed region in the underlayer. The recessed region includes a front having an angle from horizontal. The angle is greater than zero and less than ninety degrees. The method further comprises providing an assist pole layer in the recessed region, providing a main pole layer, a portion of the main pole layer residing on the assist pole layer, and defining a main pole from the assist pole layer and the main pole layer.
US08844116B2 Method of manufacturing a buoyancy control device
A method of manufacturing a harness for a buoyancy control device, and a harness manufactured by such method. There is provided a method of manufacturing a harness for a buoyancy control device for use in a diving application, the method including the steps of: providing polymeric material; molding the polymeric material into separate components of the harness; and connecting the components to one another so as to form the harness. A harness including a plurality of molded polymeric components interconnected is also described.
US08844111B1 Barbed metal insert overmolding using crosslinked polymers
The invention described herein relates to method by which a leak-proof connection may be made to a refrigeration device using shape memory characteristics of crosslinking and overmolding to affect the leak-proof connection.
US08844103B2 Methods for making feedthrough assemblies including a capacitive filter array
Methods for making feedthrough assemblies including a capacitive filter array are disclosed. Methods disclosed include attaching a perimeter wall of the capacitor filter array to an interior wall of a ferrule, depositing a thick film conductive paste within at least one passageway to form a conductive pathway, and heating the ferrule, capacitor filter array and the thick film conductive paste to convert the paste to a relatively solid material.
US08844098B2 Apparatus for gripping handheld devices
An apparatus for gripping a handheld device is provided. The apparatus includes a base for affixing the apparatus to a first surface of the handheld device; at least one extension extending from the base at a first end of the extension; and a grip extending from the at least one extension at a second end of the extension, wherein the grip is oriented substantially parallel to the first surface of the handheld device, and wherein the apparatus is adapted to receive a portion of at least one finger inserted between the grip and the handheld device.
US08844096B2 Caster device with a directional mechanism
The present invention discloses a caster device comprising a column, a wheel module and a directional mechanism. The wheel module is pivoted on the column. The directional mechanism includes a directional component movably disposed inside the wheel module and detachably engaged with the column. A moving direction of the directional component is intersected with a pivoting axis of the wheel module. Because the moving direction of the directional component of the present invention is intersected with the pivoting axis of the wheel module, the column is locked well, so as to result in a better orientation effect by using the directional mechanism. The directional component is movably disposed inside the wheel module, so that the directional component is intersected with the pivoting axis of the wheel module rapidly, so as to increase an operating efficiency for orientation.
US08844089B2 All surface cleanroom mop
A cleanroom mop for cleaning all critical surfaces within a cleanroom. The cleanroom mop includes a mop head frame with at least one hollow area within the mop head frame that is accessible by at least one opening located on the top of the mop head frame, a handle attached to the mop head frame, and a mop head that is attachable to the mop head frame which has opposing sides and at least one snap fastener on each of the opposing sides where the snap fasteners can be snapped together to connect the opposing sides of the mop head.
US08844084B2 Post and hand rail assembly for modular ramp
A hand rail to post connector assembly for use with a modular ramp. The assembly includes a post cap configured for mounting to a post, a saddle that is received by a slot in the post cap, and a rail insert that is secured to the saddle. The post cap includes a support surface configured to support a hand rail, and the post cap substantially constrains the saddle from moving vertically. The rail insert has a clamping surface that engages an inner surface of the hand rail for clamping the hand rail between it and the saddle.
US08844083B2 Adjustable, modular handicap-access-ramp system
An adjustable, modular handicap-access-ramp system enables transport of wheelchairs and temporarily or permanently physically handicapped individuals and no-step access thereof into and out of a structure. The system comprises a plurality of core modules and at least one additional module adapted to be combined with each other and the core modules to configure a customized ramp. At least one combined locating and support pin is adapted to connect to each other those of the core and additional modules disposed adjacent to each other. At least one substantially infinitely adjustable column assembly allows movement of predetermined core and additional modules up or down and to a desired angle. At least one connector allows attachment to each other of adjacent core and additional modules that require a change in grade with respect to each other.
US08844081B2 Method of controlling the opening of door of laundry treatment machine
A method of controlling the opening of a door of a laundry treatment machine is provided. According to the method, when a door opening signal is detected during an operation of a laundry treatment machine, the temperature and the water level in a tub are reduced, and then the door of the laundry treatment machine is opened. Thus, it is possible to prevent a user from being burned by hot air or water in the tub and thus to improve the safety of a laundry treatment machine. Also, it is possible to enhance the convenience of a laundry treatment machine by allowing a user to open the door of the laundry treatment machine during an operation of the laundry treatment machine and to additionally put laundry in the laundry treatment machine. In addition, according to the method, wash water is discharged from a tub according to the temperature and the water level in the tub, and then cold water is supplied into the tub. Since the amount of wash water to be discharged from the tub is determined in consideration of the amount of cold water to be supplied into the tub, there is no need to additionally discharge wash water from the tub after the supply of cold water into the tub because the water level in the tub is controlled not to exceed a reference water level after the supply of cold water into the tub. Therefore, it is possible to reduce waiting time of a user.
US08844074B2 Bed wedge
A triangular prism-shaped wedge, fashioned of a sturdy foam core with soft and malleable properties, fashioned to occupy the space that commonly exists between the head of a mattress and the wall or headboard that the mattress is binding against. It is configured to occupy this space, aided via the force of friction, to ensure that items such as pillows, remote controls, and other bedside items do not fall behind the mattress, and onto the floor. It may be configured with an assortment of interchangeable pockets, as well as an embedded stereo speaker system.
US08844073B2 Apparatus for supporting and monitoring a person
A person-support structure includes a control system, an input configured to communicate a first input signal to the control system, and a sensor configured to sense a physiological characteristic of a person supported on the person-support structure. The sensor communicates a second input signal corresponding to the physiological characteristic to the control system. The control system calculates a condition score as a function of the first input signal and the physiological characteristic of the person and compares the condition score to a predetermined threshold. The control system scales at least one of the physiological characteristic of the person and the predetermined threshold as a function of the first input signal.
US08844072B2 Infant supporting apparatus
An infant supporting apparatus includes a base frame, a support frame and a resting support. The base frame includes a first and a second leg frame portion pivotally connected with each other about a first pivot axis, wherein the first and second leg frame portions have foot portions. The support frame is assembled with the base frame, and includes a first and a second support frame portion pivotally connected with each other about a second pivot axis spaced apart from the first pivot axis, the first and second pivot axes being vertically aligned with each other. The resting support is suspended from the first and second support frames for receiving the placement of a child.
US08844067B2 Toilet fill valve water leak and overflow notification device
A device to shut-off a water supply to a toilet diverts water from a toilet fill valve to a shut-off valve that has a housing that includes a valve mechanism, a trip mechanism, and a trip circuit. The trip mechanism includes a rotational spring that urges closing of the valve mechanism. A trip latch is adapted to prevent closing of the valve mechanism except when withdrawn from the valve mechanism by a solenoid that is electrically connected to the trip circuit. The trip circuit includes at least one trip sensor input and a power source, such that when the trip circuit detects a fault condition on any of the trip sensors, the trip circuit connects power to the solenoid to withdraw the solenoid to close the valve mechanism. A rest knob may then be rotated to reset the valve mechanism into a valve-open position.
US08844065B2 Single knot hairnet
A hairnet suitable for retaining a person's hair in a desired position while providing comfort to the person when wearing a tight-fitting helmet or other headgear that comes into contact with the hairnet. The hairnet may include a net portion with a band connected along one edge of the net portion. The ends of the band then may be brought together, along with portions of the net portion, to a cinch point and bound with a cinch structure. The resulting cinch point may be advantageously worn at the nape of the neck, thus avoiding pressure points on other parts of the person's head. Methods of constructing the hairnet and using the hairnet with a helmet are also disclosed. Embodiments of the present hairnet may be made with materials used in the construction of conventional hairnets because of their familiarity, breathability, and generally disposable nature.
US08844062B2 Garment for ballistic protection and carrying equipment
The invention relates to a garment for ballistic protection and carrying equipment, including: a carrying harness including a back portion suitable for covering the back of a user, the back portion including a cover for accommodating a back-protecting pack and straps suitable for being placed over the shoulders of the user in order to hang the harness from the shoulders; and two abdominal portions suitable for covering the torso of the user, each abdominal portion being designed to be removably attached onto a respective suspender of the carrying harness, the abdominal portions including a closing device for connecting the abdominal portions together in order to close the vest.
US08850611B1 Simultaneous topographic and elemental chemical and magnetic contrast in scanning tunneling microscopy
A method and system for performing simultaneous topographic and elemental chemical and magnetic contrast analysis in a scanning, tunneling microscope. The method and system also includes nanofabricated coaxial multilayer tips with a nanoscale conducting apex and a programmable in-situ nanomanipulator to fabricate these tips and also to rotate tips controllably.
US08850607B2 System and method for capacity licensing
A method and system for capacity licensing are disclosed. According to one embodiment, a computer implemented method comprises receiving a capability request from a device, sending a capability response to the device, the capability response comprising a serving of license rights. A deduction record is stored, the deduction record deducting a license from a license pool. An information request is received from the device, and an information response is sent.
US08850606B2 Computer readable medium storing program, information processing apparatus, and information processing method for document security
A computer readable medium storing a program causing a computer to execute a process for information processing, the process includes: receiving a first characteristic value calculated on the basis of first document information for use in detecting whether the first document information is tampered with or not; receiving a second characteristic value calculated on the basis of second document information for use in detecting whether the second document information is tampered with or not; and calculating a third characteristic value for use in detecting whether third document information is tampered with or not on the basis of the first characteristic value, the second characteristic value and the third document information related to integration of the first document information and the second document information.
US08850602B2 Method for protecting application and method for executing application using the same
An application protection method and an application execution method using the same are provided. The application protection method generates a key needed to execute the application which is provided to a user terminal using information on the user terminal, information on the application, and a part of text; and transmits the generated key to the user terminal. Therefore, the application is executed on the device which has a legal right for the application, thereby preventing the illegal use of the application.
US08850601B2 Systems and methods of determining a trust level from system management mode
Systems and methods of determining a trust level from system management mode are disclosed. One such method includes: responsive to a system management mode interrupt (SMI), determining a trust level associated with code invoking the SMI; and responsive to determining that the trust level is untrusted, granting or denying a request made by the code invoking the SMI based at least in part on a type of the request.
US08850587B2 Network security scanner for enterprise protection
A method of monitoring levels of security conformity and preparedness of a plurality of network connected computing machines, obtains a report by remotely scanning the machines in segments. The machines might already be connected to commercial security software and a patch dispenser. The report includes definition dates and any files quarantined by the commercial security software, patch-management-software communication present and the patches received. The method uses the report and software (not installed on the scanned machines) to produce a Network Security Scanner for Enterprise Protection output to perform a security-preparedness audit of the scanned machines. The audit non-intrusively ascertains. If the scanned machines conform to user-defined fields and policies, and assists in selective security updating of the machines. The scanning, unrecognized by the scanned machines may be configured to suit their OS, and done periodically as desired. A computer readable medium executing the method is included.
US08850583B1 Intrusion detection using secure signatures
A method and device for intrusion detection using secure signatures comprising capturing network data. A search hash value, value employing at least one one-way function, is generated from the captured network data using a first hash function. The presence of a search hash value match in a secure signature table comprising search hash values and an encrypted rule is determined. After determining a search hash value match, a decryption key is generated from the captured network data using a second hash function, a hash function different form the first hash function. One or more of the encrypted rules of the secure signatures table having a hash value equal to the generated search hash value are then decrypted using the generated decryption key. The one or more decrypted secure signature rules are then processed for a match and one or more user notifications are deployed if a match is identified.
US08850582B2 Security monitoring system and security monitoring method
The objective of the present invention is to provide a security monitoring system and a security monitoring method which is capable of a quick operation when an unauthorized access, a malicious program, and the like are detected, while the normal operation of the control system is not interrupted by an erroneous detection. The security monitoring system 100 obtains communication packets in segments 3 which constitutes a control system 1, and extracts a communication packet which has a characteristic value different from a normal value among the obtained communication packets to generate communication event information 150. The security monitoring system 100 predicts a degree of influence on the control system 1 by the communication packet extracted as the communication event information 150 by verifying the communication event information 150 with event patterns which indicate characteristics of the unauthorized access and the like.
US08850581B2 Identification of malware detection signature candidate code
A region of HTML or PDF file bytecode run on a virtual machine is identified as possible malware, allowing a detection signature to be generated. A determination is made, based on code behavior, that malware may be present. Variables visible in this identification start state can be found by mapping the start state to scopes in an abstract syntax data structure. Searching previously executed states of the virtual machine for any assignment of a variable that belongs to the set of variables of interest provides a set of assignments of interest, even in obfuscated code. Nonterminated assignments of interest will lead in turn to other variables of interest and assignments of interest, until all assignments of interest are terminated. At that point, a region of code defined by the assignments of interest is identified as a malware detection signature generation candidate, and submitted to a human or automated analyst.
US08850578B2 Network intrusion detection
A method of detecting network communications includes monitoring network devices for communication data; generating an output file including the communication data correlated with a communication type; computing network metrics based on the correlated data; comparing the network metrics with a policy threshold; and determining a network violation event based on the comparing.
US08850560B2 Mobile device and control method thereof
This specification relates to a mobile terminal capable of executing a lock state of restricting a touch input and a control method thereof. The control method for the mobile terminal, which displays a lock screen in the lock state of restricting an input of a control command for an application, includes displaying an execution screen of an application on the lock screen, and controlling the lock screen based upon a touch input detected in the lock state.
US08850559B2 Security method of a portable device
An application program of the portable device receives a command of an owner when the portable device is powered on. The application program notifies a basic input/output system to set a protection variable, and notifies the owner to set a password in a setup menu of the basic input/output system after the application program receives the command of the owner. A keyboard controller turns off the portable device to enable the protection variable after the basic input/output system sets the protection variable and the setup menu of the basic input/output system stores the password. After the protection variable is enabled, whenever the portable device is powered on, the basic input/output system checks a password inputted to the portable device at least once and the basic input/output system executes a corresponding operation according to a check result.
US08850558B2 Controlling access to a process using a separate hardware device
A method and apparatus for automatic user authentication are described. The method includes receiving information at a device, the device including a credential container; storing the information at the credential container and performing cryptographic calculations on the received information and providing the encrypted information upon request.
US08850557B2 Processor and data processing method with non-hierarchical computer security enhancements for context states
Disclosed are a processor and processing method that provide non-hierarchical computer security enhancements for context states. The processor can comprise a context control unit that uses context identifier tags associated with corresponding contexts to control access by the contexts to context information (i.e., context states) contained in the processor's non-stackable and/or stackable registers. For example, in response to an access request, the context control unit can grant a specific context access to a register only when that register is tagged with a specific context identifier tag. If the register is tagged with another context identifier tag, the contents of the specific register are saved in a context save area of memory and the previous context states of the specific context are restored to the specific register before access can be granted. The context control unit can also provide such computer security enhancements while still facilitating authorized cross-context and/or cross-level communications.
US08850555B2 System and method for controlling access to an electronic message recipient
A system for, and method of, generating a plurality of proxy identities to a given originator identity as a means of providing controlled access to the originator identity in electronic communications media such as e-mail and instant messaging.
US08850549B2 Methods and systems for controlling access to resources and privileges per process
To control privileges and access to resources on a per-process basis, an administrator creates a rule that may be applied to modify a token of a process. The rule may include an application-criterion set and changes to be made to the groups and/or privileges of the token. The rule may be set as a policy within a group policy object (GPO), where a GPO is associated with one or more groups of computers or users. When a GPO containing a rule is applied to a computer, a driver installed on the computer may access the rule(s) anytime a logged-on user executes a process. If the executed process satisfies the criterion set of a rule, the changes contained within the rule are made to the process token, and the user has expanded and/or contracted access and/or privileges for only that process.
US08850548B2 User-portable device and method of use in a user-centric identity management system
A user-portable computing device configured as a smart card enables a user to carry identification information and to generate security tokens for use in authenticating the user to a service provider. The device includes memory for storing user identities as information cards that are exported to a host computer, presented to a user in visual form, and then selected for use in the authentication process. A security token service installed on the device issues a security token in response to a token request sent from the host computer that references the selected user identity. The security token service uses user attribute information stored on the user device to compose the claim assertions needed to issue the security token. The token is returned to the host computer and used to facilitate the authentication process.
US08850547B1 Remote access service inspector
A method, system, and computer program product for providing protected remote access from a remote access client to a remote access server over a computer network through a plurality of inspections. A remote access configuration file is created for the remote access client. A digital hash of the configuration file is then generated. The digital hash is compared with a configuration file stored at a predefined web location. If the comparison results in a match between the digital hash and the stored configuration file, a digital hash comparison is performed between an encrypted remote access configuration file and an encrypted configuration file stored at the predefined web location. If the plurality of inspections are passed, the remote access client is released from a quarantine state and a virtual private network (VPN) connection to the remote access server is established.
US08850544B1 User centered privacy built on MashSSL
The present invention provides a new method for user centered privacy which works across all 3rd party sites where users post content, or even for encryption of emails. Users have an identity with a Hyde-It Identity provider (HIP) which authenticates the user to a Hyde-It Service (HITS) which performs key distribution. The functionality can be invoked through a user toolbar, built into the browser or be downloaded on demand via a bookmarklet.
US08850539B2 Adaptive policies and protections for securing financial transaction data at rest
A system for challenge-response authentication is provided by receiving, from an external terminal over a communication network, a request for access to a service. A plurality of objects is presented to a user via a display. A plurality of codes is received over the communication network, each of the plurality of codes corresponding to one of the plurality of objects. The plurality of codes are matched to a plurality of alphanumeric characters according to a predetermined table. An alphanumeric string is generated from the plurality of alphanumeric characters and the alphanumeric string is compared to a user identifier stored in a database. Based on the comparing, a determination is made as to whether to grant the user access to the service.
US08850536B2 Methods and systems for identity verification in a social network using ratings
The disclosed embodiment relates to identity verification and identity management, and in particular, to methods and systems for identifying individuals, identifying users accessing one or more services over a network, determining member identity ratings, and based on member identity ratings that restrict access to network-based content and certain user-to-user interactions. Further, the user experience in performing identity management is simplified and enhanced as disclosed herein.
US08850535B2 Methods and systems for identity verification in a social network using ratings
The disclosed embodiment relates to identity verification and identity management, and in particular, to methods and systems for identifying individuals, identifying users accessing one or more services over a network, determining member identity ratings, and based on member identity ratings that restrict access to network-based content and certain user-to-user interactions. Further, the user experience in performing identity management is simplified and enhanced as disclosed herein.
US08850531B1 System and method for targeted messaging, workflow management, and digital rights management for geofeeds
The disclosure relates to systems and methods for targeted messaging, workflow management, and digital rights management for geofeeds, including content that is related to geographically definable locations and aggregated from a plurality of social media or other content providers. The system may facilitate targeted messaging to users who create content. The targeted messaging may be based on the content (or location related to the content) such as a request for additional information or a promotional message. The system may generate workflows that allow management of the content with respect to operational processes of an entity that wishes to use the content and facilitates the management of usage rights related to the content as well as payments related to such usage rights. For example, the system may store whether content requires permission to use the content and/or whether such permission was obtained and facilitates payment.
US08850525B1 Access control center auto configuration
Methods and systems provide indirect and temporary access to a company's IT infrastructure and business applications. The methods/systems involve establishing an access control center (ACC) to control the access that technical support personnel may have to the company's IT infrastructure and business applications. Thin client terminals with limited functionality may then be set up in the ACC for use by the technical support personnel. The thin client terminals connect the technical support personnel to workstations outside the ACC that operate as virtual desktops. The virtual desktops in turn connect the technical support personnel to the IT infrastructure and business applications. An ACC application may be used to automatically establish the connection between the thin client terminals to the virtual desktops, and the virtual desktops to the IT infrastructure and business applications. The ACC application may include an auto configuration module for automatically configuring a root privilege manager and jump server.
US08850523B2 Watermarks for roaming
A watermarking process is contemplated to facilitate branding and other message communication operations, such as to facilitate notifying a user associated with a home service provider of a watermark or communicating advertisements and/or personal messages to the user while accessing services through a visited service provider. The contemplated watermarking process may be particularly beneficial with devices having capabilities to roam between multiple service providers.
US08850522B2 Participant authentication and authorization for joining a private conference event via a conference event environment system
Concepts and technologies are described herein for a mechanism by which participants who have been invited to attend a conference event and who are physically present within a conference event environment, such as a meeting room, can provide authentication credentials to join the conference event via a conference event environment system. When an individual attempts to join a conference event via a conference event environment system, the individual is prompted to provide his or her authentication credentials to join the conference event via the conference event environment system to participate in the conference event. The conference event environment system may inherit the individual's permissions, such as in regards to whether or not the individual has been permitted to present content during the conference event. A conference event roster may be used to indicate that the individual has joined the conference via the conference event environment system.
US08850519B2 Methods and systems for graphical image authentication
Systems and methods for providing authentication using an arrangement of dynamic graphical images. The graphical images can be arranged as a grid or matrix for presentation on a device display for authentication of a user. The kinds of graphical images can be derived from a designated authentication category and non-authenticating categories. A series of password elements corresponding to the graphical images can be displayed with the graphical images. The user may enter the series of one or more password elements corresponding to graphical images from the authentication category which combine to form a password entry. An authentication server can compare the password entry to an authentication password corresponding to the particular arrangement of dynamic graphical images. The selection of graphical images, their arrangement and their corresponding password elements, may dynamically change in between authentication processes.
US08850515B2 Method and apparatus for subject recognition session validation
According to one embodiment, an apparatus may store a plurality of token-based rules. A token-based rule may facilitate access to a resource. The apparatus may further store a plurality of tokens. The plurality of tokens may include a session token associated with access to the resource by a user. The apparatus may receive a first token indicating at least one of the detection of a face other than the user's and the detection of a voice other than the user's. 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.
US08850513B2 System for data flow protection and use control of applications and portable devices configured by location
The present invention relates to a system for implementing a firewall service on portable devices such as mobile phones, tablets or notebooks, which has changed their security settings depending on the location where they are. More specifically, the invention relates to a method of protecting data flow and control of use of devices and functional applications present in a portable device and configured from their location.
US08850509B2 Multiple frequency channel data distribution
An enhanced multimedia over coax alliance (MoCA) implementation having a single Receive (Rx) physical (Phy) module that is arranged to receive data via one of at least two Rx radio frequency (RF) modules, which are arranged to be in communication with a coaxial cable, and at least two transmit (Tx) Phy modules respectively arranged to be in communication with two Tx RF modules, which are also arranged to be in communication with the coaxial cable.
US08850507B2 Method and apparatus for browsing using alternative linkbases
Systems and methods for navigating hypermedia using multiple coordinated input/output device sets. Disclosed systems and methods allow a user and/or an author to control what resources are presented on which device sets (whether they are integrated or not), and provide for coordinating browsing activities to enable such a user interface to be employed across multiple independent systems. Disclosed systems and methods also support new and enriched aspects and applications of hypermedia browsing and related business activities.
US08850504B2 Method and system for comparing media assets
A computer-implemented method and system that features retrieving, with a comparator module, a first characteristic of a first media asset and associated with a first media asset identifier from a media server storing a plurality of media assets. A second characteristic of a second media asset associated with a second media asset identifier from an archive server is retrieved with the comparator module. The comparator module is utilized to compare the first characteristic to the second characteristic based on an association of the first media asset identifier and the second asset media identifier. A report that includes an indication of the result of the comparison of the first characteristic and the second characteristic is generated by the comparator module.
US08850492B2 Method, system and apparatus for delivering data to a mobile electronic device
According to embodiments described in the specification, a method, system and apparatus for delivering Non-Real-Time (NRT) data to a mobile electronic device are provided. The method comprises: storing the NRT data in a memory of a server, the NRT data comprising a multimedia file; storing at least one network identifier in the memory, the at least one network identifier identifying at least a portion of the multimedia file and a storage location of the multimedia file; formatting the NRT data using a processor of the server, wherein the formatting comprises generating header data including the at least one network identifier, and appending the multimedia file to the header data; and providing the formatted NRT data to broadcast equipment for broadcasting.
US08850487B2 Display device and method for providing content using the same
A display device and a method for providing content using the display device are disclosed. A controller receives a search term and searches for at least one content including a video frame associated with the received search term. A display displays a list of the searched content.
US08850485B2 System and method for providing enhanced data for visual displays
A method and system providing enhanced data for visual displays are provided. A remote selector identifies a plurality of objects and sends at least one request to retrieve data about the objects. A server receives the request from the remote selector and retrieves the data about the objects using one or more unique index keys from a database. A display device displays the data provided by the server, and the data concurrently appears with the objects on the display device.
US08850482B2 Method and apparatus for creating dynamic webpages in a media communication system
A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, an Internet Protocol Television system having a controller to create a template defining a format of presentation of an webpage or HTML page using an iTV or IPTV application system, receive a request for the page from a subscriber of the iTV or IPTV system. The system can access application system subscriber data for the subscriber and a presentation of the page is dynamically adapted according to the application system subscriber data. In one alternative at, the page can be dynamically adapted by changing in content or by changing a look and feel of an HTML page or webpage. In another alternative, the webpage or HTML page can be dynamically adapted by modifying graphic user interface elements based on the application system subscriber data. Other embodiments are disclosed.
US08850478B2 Multimedia systems, methods and applications
Systems and methods according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention provide a user interface including an electronic program guide and scrollable visual directories.
US08850477B2 Systems and methods for linking television viewers with advertisers and broadcasters
The present invention provides systems and methods for providing television schedule information to a viewer, and for allowing the viewer to link, search, select and interact with information in a remote database, e.g., a database on the internet. The television schedule information can be displayed on a variety of viewer interfaces, such as television screens, computer monitors, PCTV screens and the like. The television schedule information may be stored on the viewer's computer, television, PCTV, or a remote server (e.g., a website), or the television schedule information may be downloaded from a remote database to the viewer's computer, television or PCTV.
US08850476B2 Backwards guide
A receiver determines to transmit an EPG that includes schedule information regarding content available from a provider, determines that content is stored and is not currently available from the provider, incorporates information regarding the stored content in the EPG, and includes indicators indicating that the stored content is stored rather than available from the provider. The stored content may be recorded as part of recording a plurality of content received via a broadcast that are all included in the same frequency band and encoded with the same code word. The EPG may be divided into portions that include information regarding available content and portions that include information regarding previously available content and may include indications of which are stored. The EPG may be configured in a calendar arrangement based at least on the information regarding the available and information regarding when stored content were previously available from the provider.
US08850474B2 Virtual content store in interactive services architecture
A virtual content store may be provided. Upon receiving a request for a content stream from a subscriber at a regional headend, a central content vault may be examined to determine whether the content stream is available. Once the content stream is determined to be available in the central content vault, a streaming session may be established to the subscriber from the regional headend. The content stream may be retrieved from the central content vault and provided to the subscriber via the streaming session.
US08850473B2 Targeting content based on location
Assets of broadcast network content are targeted to network users of interest based on location information regarding user equipment devices. Asset providers can specify location targeting criteria via a graphical user interface displaying mapping information. This location targeting criteria can then be compared to location information regarding user equipment devices so that assets are delivered to appropriate devices. The comparison of the location targeting criteria to the device location information can be performed at the user equipment devices or at another location. In the latter case, the assets can be addressed to appropriate user equipment devices or appropriate user equipment devices can be directed to select the asset, which is broadcast via the network. In this manner, assets can be targeted to individual network users on a basis independent of network topology.
US08850470B2 Personal base station system with wireless video capability
A personal base station (PBS) having wireless video capability. The PBS authenticates a mobile device within range for cellular services, and authenticates the user for a level of service for cable television. The PBS operates in accordance with a dual-purpose subscriber identity system (SIS) includes a subscriber mobile identity component (SMIC) and a video security component (VSC) such that the cellular and television services can be authenticated. Mobile devices incorporating the disclosed innovations, as well as the PBS, can access video content from a cable television provider through any available broadband link, regardless of the mobile device's physical location.
US08850468B2 Method and system for auxiliary data detection and delivery
A method and system for auxiliary data detection. Data is received on a hand-held device from a display of a signal on a monitor. The signal is visually displayed on the monitor at a frequency. A modulated video signal is received on the hand-held device from a display device. The modulated video signal contains auxiliary data modulated within a video signal in a substantially invisible way. The modulated video signal is demodulated to obtain the auxiliary data. At least one of the data or the auxiliary data is processed to identify a promotional opportunity available through the hand-held device. The user of the hand-held device is notified of availability of the promotional opportunity through the hand-held device.
US08850461B2 Optical disc drive and disc determination method thereof
An optical disc drive comprises a flash memory, an optical pick-up head, a spindle motor and a control unit. The control unit generates a determination result according to whether the optical disc drive has a disc loaded therein, and stores the determination result into the flash memory when the optical disc drive receives a power. The control unit reads the determination result from the flash memory after receiving the power again, and determines whether to control the optical pick-up head and the spindle motor to execute the disc detection procedure according to the determination result. If the determination result is negative, whether the optical disc drive has a disc loaded therein is determined according to a rotation speed of the spindle motor. If the rotation speed is larger than a threshold value, the control unit determines that no disc is loaded in the optical disc drive.
US08850460B1 Techniques for performing a remote procedure call using remote procedure call configuration information
Described are techniques for performing remote procedure calls (RPCs). An RPC API is described which provides for using an optimized technique and an unoptimized technique for performing RPCs. The optimized technique includes a client container performing a call to obtain RPC configuration information which is then stored by the client container and may be used by the client container in connection with multiple RPC invocations. Techniques are also described for communicating parameter information between containers executing in different address spaces by forming parameter information on the client side using embedded lists, encoding the parameter information on the client side prior to transmission to the server, and transmitting the encoded parameter information to the server which determines output parameters and returns the output parameters to the client.
US08850451B2 Subscribing for application messages in a multicast messaging environment
Methods, systems, and products for subscribing for application messages in a multicast messaging environment as disclosed that include: requesting, by a message receiving device, a stream administration server to initialize a message subscription for application messages from a message sending device; receiving, in the message receiving device from the stream administration server, a data communications endpoint of a multicast message stream from the message sending device; beginning to listen, by the message receiving device, for the application messages at the data communications endpoint; and notifying, by the message receiving device after beginning to listen for the application messages, the message sending device to publish the application messages at the data communications endpoint.
US08850449B2 Method and apparatus for providing resource allocation policy
A method and apparatus for providing a resource allocation policy in a network are disclosed. For example, the method constructs a queuing model for each application. The method defines a utility function for each application and for each transaction type of each application, and defines an overall utility in a system. The method performs an optimization to identify an optimal configuration that maximizes the overall utility for a given workload, and determines one or more adaptation policies for configuring the system in accordance with the optimal configuration.
US08850440B2 Managing the processing of processing requests in a data processing system comprising a plurality of processing environments
Processing requests may be routed between a plurality of runtime environments, based on whether or not program(s) required for completion of the processing requests is/are loaded in a given runtime environment. Cost measures may be used to compare costs of processing a request in a local runtime environment and of processing the request at a non-local runtime environment.
US08850439B2 Storage subsystem device driver scheduling I/O servicing according to priority of identified process
Systems, methods, and apparatus to identify and prioritize application processes in one or more subsystems. Some embodiments identifying applications and processes associated with each application executing on a system, apply one or more priority rules to the identified applications and processes to generate priority information, and transmit the priority information to a subsystem. The subsystem then matches received requests with the priority information and services the processes according to the priority information.
US08850438B2 Managing the processing of processing requests in a data processing system comprising a plurality of processing environments
Processing requests may be routed between a plurality of runtime environments, based on whether or not program(s) required for completion of the processing requests is/are loaded in a given runtime environment. Cost measures may be used to compare costs of processing a request in a local runtime environment and of processing the request at a non-local runtime environment.
US08850430B2 Migration of virtual machines
To migrate two or more virtual machines in a source hypervisor to a target hypervisor, a list of active and connected virtual machines in the source hypervisor is acquired. Connections between the source virtual machines are rerouted to a buffer so that data flowing between the source virtual machines is captured. The source virtual machines are migrated to a target hypervisor and are connected in the same manner as in the source hypervisor. The buffered data is migrated to the respective migrated virtual machines, and the target virtual machines are activated. The virtual machines can be migrated in order of data flow dependency such that the least dependent virtual machine is migrated first.
US08850428B2 User transparent virtualization method for protecting computer programs and data from hostile code
A secure computing environment that prevents malicious code from “illegitimately” interacting with programs and data residing on the computing platform. While the various embodiments restrict certain programs to operate in a virtualized environment, such operation is transparent to the user from the operational point of view. Moreover, any program operating in the virtualized environment is made to believe that it has full access to all of the computing resources. To prevent a user from unknowingly or inadvertently allowing the program to adversely affect the computer, the user is also presented with “feel” that the program is able to perform all operations in the computing environment.
US08850418B2 System and method for business function reversibility
The invention may provide “undo” (e.g., rollback) features, along with data management simplification features, to an update package model of software suite development/evolution. New functions, which may have disruption effects for customers, may be installed into the core configuration data with inactive switches. Upon activation, a switch status may change, and a query filter may use the activated function (e.g., as associated with the switch ID). Original functions may be maintained, giving the user the ability to deactivate an activated function, and thereby reverting the system back to the prior configuration status.
US08850417B2 Method and framework for invisible code rewriting
This invention relates to a method and framework for invisible code rewriting. A method, system, and computer program for allowing modification of executable program code in a computer platform comprising: providing a virtual address space on the platform, said virtual space comprising a first and second address space; identifying a program into the first address space; identifying an enhancement to the program; copying the program into the second address space; modifying the program copy in the second address space to provide the enhancement; and configuring the platform to execute the program and executing the enhanced program in second address space.
US08850414B2 Direct access of language metadata
Method and system for direct access of language metadata are disclosed. In an implementation, the method includes receiving commands from a user to modify language metadata of a programming language. The metadata is modified based on the command and the modified metadata is utilized as a feature in the programming language at runtime.
US08850413B2 Compiling multi-threaded applications for targeted criticalities
Methods are disclosed of compiling a software application having multiple functions. At least one of the functions is identified as a targeted function having a significant contribution to performance of the software application. A code version of the targeted function is generated with one of multiple machine models corresponding to different target utilizations for a target architecture, specifically corresponding to the one with the greatest of the different target utilizations. The generated code version of the targeted function is matched with an application thread of the target architecture.
US08850411B2 Compiler system, method and software for a resilient integrated circuit architecture
The exemplary embodiments provide a compiler for a reconfigurable integrated circuit having reconfigurable computational elements with a plurality of contexts. An exemplary compiler generates a compilation comprising a designation of a first type of reconfigurable computational element, the data input linkage or the data output linkage for a first action, and a portion of a first configuration for the first type of reconfigurable computational element comprising a first task identifier and the first action identifier. The reconfigurable integrated circuit utilizes the first task identifier and a run status designation in enabling and disabling corresponding contexts for execution by the reconfigurable computational elements. The first configuration, typically generated in a binding process, further comprises a first input data source address from the first data input linkage or a first output data destination address from the first data output linkage.
US08850410B2 System using a unique marker with each software code-block
A system and method for improving software maintainability, performance, and/or security by associating a unique marker to each software code-block; the system comprising of a plurality of processors, a plurality of code-blocks, and a marker associated with each code-block. The system may also include a special hardware register (code-block marker hardware register) in each processor for identifying the markers of the code-blocks executed by the processor, without changing any of the plurality of code-blocks.
US08850407B2 Test script generation
Disclosed herein are techniques for generating an automated testing script. A request for a performance evaluation of a computer program is accessed. Predetermined rules are used to determine which objects defined in the computer program should be triggered by a script executable by a testing application. The script is generated in accordance with the predetermined rules.
US08850406B1 Detecting anomalous application access to contact information
A client device may install an application. The client device may also maintain a shared set of contact information separate from the application. If the client device determines that, within a fixed time period, the application has read from the shared set of contact information, but has not written a threshold extent of data to the shared set of contact information, the client device may indicate to at least one of the user interface of client device and a server device that the application is exhibiting anomalous behavior. If the server device receives such indications from at least a threshold number of client devices, the server device may instruct the client device to disable or uninstall the application.
US08850405B2 Generating sound and minimal security reports based on static analysis of a program
A method is disclosed that includes, using a static analysis, analyzing a software program to determine a number of paths from sources accepting information to sinks using that information or a modified version of that information and to determine multiple paths from the number of paths. The determined multiple paths have a same transition from an application portion of the software program to a library portion of the software program and require a same downgrading action to address a vulnerability associated with source-sink pairs in the multiple paths. The analyzing includes determining the multiple paths using a path-sensitive analysis. The method includes, for the determined multiple paths, grouping the determined multiple paths into a single representative indication of the determined multiple paths. The method includes outputting the single representative indication. Computer program products and apparatus are also disclosed.
US08850403B2 Profiling data snapshots for software profilers
Implementations of the present disclosure provide methods including executing a profiling session to profile one or more applications running on a virtual machine executed on a server, collecting profiling data over a first time interval during the profiling session, receiving user input generated at a client device, the client device being in communication with the server, in response to the user input, generating a snapshot corresponding to a subset of the profiling data, the snapshot being identified based on a second time interval that is within the first time interval, and transmitting the profiling data to generate a snapshot view for display on a client device, the snapshot view corresponding to the subset of the profiling data.
US08850401B2 Monitoring a software system using an interpretation rule of an ontology
Monitoring a software system based on a service oriented architecture (SOA). The method may involve system components communicating with each other via sending messages. The method may include receiving a monitoring message by a monitoring component where the monitoring message may be sent from a system component of the software system. The method may further include providing an ontology including at least one interpretation rule for the message by the monitoring component. The method may also include reacting of the monitoring component in accordance with the at least one interpretation rule.
US08850400B2 System and method for providing an implementation accelerator and regression testing framework for use with environments such as fusion applications
A system and method for providing a regression testing framework for use with enterprise applications, such as Oracle Fusion Applications and Fusion Financials, by rapidly implementing applications according to a customized configuration, and subsequently performing regression tests on an implemented application instance. In accordance with an embodiment, the system comprises a plurality of automated, e.g., Fusion Financials application setups; automation services which can be consumed by setups and regression tests as per requirement; multiple automated regression tests which can be executed by the regression testing framework, to test an implemented instance of the applications; and a central execution controller, which controls the runtime behavior of application setups and regression tests that subscribe to it.
US08850396B2 Performing software testing based on grouping of tests using test list entity
A mechanism for performing dynamic software testing on a computer system based on grouping of tests using a test list entity. A method of embodiments of the invention includes causing execution a first group of first tests based on a first set of configuration settings, and executing the first group includes enabling a test execution script to run the first tests according to the first set of configuration settings, and the test execution script is hosted at a test execution platform of a computer system. The method further includes facilitating creation, in runtime, a second group of second tests based on a second set of configuration settings that is different from the first set of configuration settings, and causing execution, in runtime, the second group of second tests, and executing the second group includes enabling the test execution script to run the second tests according to the second set of configuration settings.
US08850395B2 Managing graphical user interface (GUI) objects in a testing environment
A method, a system and a computer program product for managing graphical user interface (GUI) objects in a testing environment. GUI objects in the testing environment are uniquely identified and the GUI objects have corresponding test objects. The uniquely identified GUI objects in the test environment are sorted in response to the pre-defined hierarchy of properties belonging to the set of properties and the pre-defined hierarchy of properties includes at least one spatial property.
US08850394B2 Debugging system and method
A method and processor for debugging a target processor. The method comprises: executing code on the target processor to generate trace information for debugging; and during execution of that code, periodically incrementing a value of a counter on the target processor. The execution of the code includes executing a plurality of timestamp instructions on the target processor each to associate a respective timestamp with the trace information. The execution of each timestamp instruction comprises generating the respective timestamp by reading the value of the counter into a software accessible storage location and subsequently resetting the counter.
US08850390B2 Status management for phased implementation of configuration changes
The present disclosure involves systems, software, and computer implemented methods for providing status management for phased implementation of configuration changes. One process includes operations for receiving a selection for a modular software solution and identifying a partial implementation of the modular software solution comprising a subset of the plurality of model entities included in the modular software solution. After the model entities in the subset are activated, a particular model entity is identified to add to the partial implementation. A temporary phase-in state is assigned to the particular model entity, the temporary phase-in state providing an indication to at least one configuration service to perform at least one pre-activation task for the particular model entity. The particular model entity is activated after the pre-activation task is completed.
US08850387B2 Integrated service framework
Embodiments of the invention provide for methods, systems and computer program products for an integrated service framework with a suite of products that provide a development environment and common framework for programming within an operating system. The programmers write code to develop class plug-ins within that structure of the abstract class in order to perform services. The abstract class provides a standardized structure that may be utilized by all of programmers working within the integrated service framework to reduce redundant programs. The integrated framework also provides a service manager that identifies the class plug-ins, runs the services, logs information about the services, sends notifications to users about the services, configures itself to monitor the services, and provides communication between the services. Furthermore, the integrated service framework also provides a controller service that allows a programmer or an administrator to control, monitor, or query any issues that occur with the services.
US08850384B2 Creation and management of service candidates for a service model
An apparatus, system, and method to facilitate the creation and management of service candidates in a service-oriented architecture (SOA). In one embodiment, a method includes receiving a user request for an action concerning a service candidate associated with a SOA service model, and displaying a user interface corresponding to the requested action. The method further includes receiving user input for the service candidate via the user interface, and updating the SOA service model based on the requested action and the received user input for the service candidate.
US08850377B1 Back annotation of output time delays
A method of configuring an integrated circuit includes developing a circuit simulation model of a circuit having an output port to be configured in the integrated circuit. A number of simultaneously switched outputs (SSOs) are defined according to the circuit simulation model, and a propagation delay at the output port is characterized according to the number of SSOs. The circuit simulation model is back-annotated from the output port to add the propagation delay in a signal path of the output port to produce a second circuit simulation model. A configuration bitstream is generated according to the second circuit simulation model and the integrated circuit is configured according to the bitstream.
US08850376B2 Method, device, and a computer-readable recording medium having stored program for information processing for noise suppression design check
A computer-readable recording medium having stored therein a program for causing a computer to execute a process for information processing comprising: performing, for a plurality of noise countermeasure design checks for a plurality of nets provided on a substrate, an initial noise countermeasure design check on each of the plurality of nets in an execution order determined, when one of the checks is passed, on the basis of other noise countermeasure design checks that may be skipped; and performing, if it is determined on the basis of at least a check result of a noise countermeasure design check which has been performed immediately before a corresponding check that there is a next noise countermeasure design check that may not be skipped in the execution order, the next noise countermeasure design check for each of the plurality of nets.
US08850371B2 Enhanced clock gating in retimed modules
Embodiments of the invention may include receiving a design netlist representing a datapath operable to execute a function corresponding to an opcode combination. The datapath may include an input stage, a register stage, and an output stage and the register stage may include a plurality of registers. For a first function corresponding to a first opcode combination, a subset of unused registers in the plurality of registers may be automatically determined. Further, clock gating logic may be automatically inserted into the design netlist, wherein the clock gating logic is operable to dynamically clock gate the subset of unused registers contemporaneously when the datapath executes the first function corresponding to the first opcode combination.
US08850370B2 Method of manufacturing semiconductor circuit structure
A layout method of a semiconductor circuit is provided. The layout method is firstly putting a plurality of circuit patterns on a substrate, wherein a first distance is the largest distance between any one of the circuit patterns and one of other circuit patterns adjacent thereto. The layout method is then determining whether the first distance is larger than a first critical value. Later, when the first distance is larger than the first critical value, at least a closed loop dummy pattern is putted in one of the areas corresponding to the first distance between the pair of the circuit patterns. The closed loop dummy pattern is putted in a same layer with the circuit patterns, surrounds between the pair of circuit patterns and is insulated from the circuit patterns.
US08850368B2 Double patterning technology (DPT) layout routing
One or more techniques or systems for determining double patterning technology (DPT) layout routing compliance are provided herein. For example, a layout routing component of a system is configured to assign a pin loop value to a pin loop. In some embodiments, the pin loop value is assigned based on a mask assignment of a pin of the pin loop. In some embodiments, the pin loop value is assigned based on a number of nodes associated with the pin loop. DPT compliance or a DPT violation is determined for the pin loop based on the pin loop value. In this manner, odd loop detection associated with DPT layout routing is provided because a DPT violation results in generation of an additional instance of a net, for example. Detecting an odd loop allows a design to be redesigned before fabrication, where the odd loop would present undesired issues.
US08850360B2 Skipping through electronic content on an electronic device
Embodiments of the present invention disclose a method for skipping through electronic content displayed on an electronic device having a touchscreen display coupled to a processing engine. According to one embodiment, a multi-touch gesture is received from a user. Based on the user's multi-touch gesture, electronic content associated with digital media immediately advances to a subsequent section or immediately reverses back to a previous section of the digital media.
US08850357B2 System and method for cursor-based application management
A system and method of managing applications and event notifications using a cursor-based. GUI, wherein the cursor-based GUI is located adjacent to the cursor and provides a user with the ability manage and monitor a plurality of dynamically updated applications, commands and event notifications via a persistent and centralized interface. Since the cursor-based GUI is persistent in nature, the plurality of applications, commands and event notifications can be accessed regardless of the user's computer environment. The user can manage user authentication requirements and other configuration information for the cursor-based GUI.
US08850356B2 Information processing system and information processing apparatus
A controller may include first and second input operating sections to input an instruction, and a control unit to control selection of an object on a screen display based on an instruction input at the first and second input operating sections. When an enter instruction is input at one of the first and second input operating sections following input of a movement instruction at the other of the first and second input operating sections, the control unit may control start of a function of an object at a position indicated based on the input of the movement instruction at the other of the input operating sections.
US08850355B2 Systems and methods for communicating with media modules
Systems and methods for communicating with media modules associated with a computing device are provided. In this regard, a representative method, among others, includes receiving an input to execute at least one media module and determining a power state of a computing device. The computing device generally has multiple power states. The method further includes launching the at least one media module based on the power state of the computing device responsive to determining the power state of the computing device. The media module is configured to be launched from any one of the multiple power states of the computing device.
US08850352B2 Automated scrolling of browser content and automated activation of browser links
An automatic scrolling mechanism converts an information repository into media that can actively present and “push” information to the users/viewers while retaining existing “pull” and interactivity functions. Automatic scrolling can be controlled by placing a cursor on control icons, such as boxes, lines, and arrow clusters. While the cursor is on an icon, automatic scrolling brings into view content that extends beyond the field of view. The scrolled content is moved into the field of view of the display window in a predetermined direction designated by the icon. Sub-windows are also designed to be independently and automatically scrolled or floated with respect the main window. Links created in an information repository may be automatically activated to retrieve the linked information, and to automatically present and scroll the information. As the content is automatically scrolled, the repository is pushed and the user is allured to further navigate through the repository.
US08850351B2 Method and tool for virtual desktop management
A method for providing a desktop management tool includes displaying an active desktop having at least one application window representing an active application; storing data representing a virtual desktop in memory; while displaying the active desktop, receiving non-menu-based user input representing an application-move operation between the active desktop and the virtual desktop; and associating the active application with the virtual desktop. The method may also include displaying, as part of the active desktop, a visual representation of the virtual desktop. Other examples of the described method also include displaying an enlarged view of the contents of a virtual desktop in response to additional user input. An example apparatus for implementing the described methods is also described.
US08850348B2 Dynamic device-associated feedback indicative of responsible device usage
Methods and devices for controlling a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system by a thermostat are provided. Input can be received from a user via a thermostat, the input being indicative of an adjustment of an HVAC-related setting. On a real-time basis, the HVAC-related setting that is being adjusted can be compared against a feedback criterion designed to indicate a circumstance under which feedback is to be presented to the user. The circumstance can be indicative of an achievement of a HVAC-related setting of a predetermined responsibility level with respect to an energy usage of the HVAC system. Upon a real-time determination that the feedback criterion is satisfied, visual feedback can be caused to be presented to the user in real-time. The real-time feedback can include a visual icon having a visual appeal corresponding to a desirability of the satisfaction of the feedback criterion.
US08850347B2 User interface list control system
A user interface list control system having a supervisor user application providing tools to create, deploy, modify and monitor a multi-site enterprise of remote building management systems (BMS). BMS controllers may be configured to control or monitor similar entities across all sites. As site controller configurations are created, the user must identify each configuration item with a recognizable name and/or type tag that indicates function, definition, and/or location of the item. The user may be allowed or required to apply names and type string tags consistently across all multiple site configurations. Within the context of a single supervisor, multiple users may be allowed to utilize common lists of name and type tags. The user may apply an application-specific name and/or type tag to a configuration item, using a drop down list where the user can add a new string to a tag list or select a previously entered string tag.
US08850346B2 Method and device for upgrading a building control system
An integration tool is presented for integrating and/or commissioning a new device or system into a building control system. The integration tool is incorporated into the building control system and is operative to create one or more databases and/or applications for the new device that is then flashed to an appropriate building system controller. In one form, the present invention is a software tool for integrating a building control device into the building control system. In another form, the present invention is an integration tool for defining applications for new devices. In yet another form, the present invention is a seamless software tool that allows field personnel to create databases and define applications by simply following the defined point structure.
US08850345B1 Method for interacting with a system that includes physical devices interfaced with computer software
In a method for interacting with a system that includes physical devices that are interfaced with computer software, a graphical representation of a physical device that can be graphically interconnected with a graphical representation of a software module is generated. The graphical representation of the physical device is capable of being represented as either a graphical copy mode representation or a graphical ghost mode representation. On-screen interaction with functionality of the physical device is enabled when the graphical representation of the physical device is in the graphical copy mode representation. A true physical state of the physical device is tracked when the graphical representation of the physical device is in the graphical ghost mode representation. The tracking of the true physical state of the physical device disables on-screen interaction with functionality of the physical device. A dual-mode graphical user interface element for interfacing with a physical device also is described.
US08850342B2 Splitting avatars in a virtual world
Systems, methods and articles of manufacture are disclosed for splitting an avatar a split point in a virtual world. In one embodiment, a location in the virtual world may be designated as the split point. It may be determined that a first avatar has encountered the split point. The user may be prompted to specify whether to split the first avatar in a virtual world. Responsive to a request to split the first avatar, a second avatar may be created from the first avatar. The first avatar and the second avatar may be controlled independently in the virtual world and in response to user input. A user may also request to merge the first avatar and the second avatar. A third avatar may be created from the first avatar and the second avatar, responsive to the request to merge. The third avatar may include assets of both the first avatar and the second avatar.
US08850338B2 System and method for selection of anatomical images for display using a touch-screen display
A system for selecting an anatomical image for display includes a main image display displaying at least one anatomical image; a touch-screen display; a processing unit providing a selection of graphical directories of anatomical images; and a network configured to interface the main image display with the processing unit and configured to interface the touch-screen display with the processing unit. The system displays at least one of the selection of graphical directories of anatomical images on the touch-screen display and enables selecting at least one of the selection of graphical directories from the processor without removing the anatomical image from the main image display. The touch-screen display includes a button enabling interchangeable display of the anatomical image and the selection of graphical directories of anatomical images. The system enables selecting at least one anatomical image by touching the corresponding image in the directory displayed on the touch-screen display.
US08850336B2 Production of a graphic user and/or display surface for a motor vehicle
A method for producing a graphic user and/or display surface on a display for a man/machine interface of a motor vehicle is provided, whereby the user surface includes graphic elements that are arranged in a menu-type manner. A main group and at least one subgroup below the main group is produced and every graphic element is associated with the main group, for example the domain “com.bmw” or one of the subgroups, for example “com.bmw.entertainment”, “com.bmw.enterainment.cd” or “com.bmwentertainment.radio”, and the main group and the at least one subgroup indicate respective properties of the graphic elements associated therewith, for example their color. A graphic element of a subgroup has, in addition to the properties indicated in the subgroup, at least one for the most part also the properties indicated in the main group.
US08850332B2 Object selection in web page authoring
A method performed in a web page authoring system having a user input system and an editing screen display for displaying a representation of a tag associated with a display artifact represented on the editing screen display is disclosed. A user action input selecting a reference point on the editing screen display for a web page being authored is received. A reference area on the editing screen display enclosing the selected reference point is set. The display object closest to the reference point is selected as a reference display artifact from among display artifacts in the reference area. A tag associated with the reference display artifact is selected from among tags associated with the display artifacts. A first rectangle is drawn on the editing screen display artifact. A second, larger rectangle is drawn enclosing the first rectangle. A space between the first and second rectangles represents the selected tag.
US08850330B2 Editing repeating calendar events
Embodiments of the present invention provide a novel and non-obvious method, system and computer program product for editing an event in a C&S system. In one embodiment, a method for editing an event in a C&S system can include specifying a recurrence range before permitting editing of the event. The method further can include disposing an in-line disambiguating message in a calendar dialog for the C&S system indicating whether an event instance or whether all instances of the event are to be edited in the calendar dialog. The method yet further can include limiting actions in a user interface in response to limiting a core engine for the C&S system. Specifically, limiting actions in a user interface in response to limiting a core engine for the C&S system can include permitting only an editing of a single instance for the event in response to an attendee exception.
US08850327B2 Method and apparatus for dynamic sorting and displaying of listing data composition and automating the activation event
A Drop Down Menu Program having an Item Selection Program, a Sorting Program, and a Recall Program. The Item Selection Program eliminates the need for the user to hold down the shift key or the control key while making multiple selections. Instead, the user may activate a menu item to highlight it, and activate the menu item again to remove the highlight. The user may also open and close the drop down menu. The Sorting Program organizes the menu items in order of frequency of use. The Sorting Program also provides ascending and descending sort buttons that allow the user to sort the menu items in ascending or descending alphabetical, numeric, or chronological order. The Recall Program creates a recall list of selected menu items when the user activates a recall button. The recall list can be displayed and removed independent of opening and closing actions of the drop down menu.
US08850323B2 Electronic device, content reproduction method, and program therefor
An electronic device includes: a communication unit to connect to a different device on a network, the different device storing contents; an output unit to connect to a display apparatus; a control unit; an operation input unit; and a reproduction unit. The control unit searches for contents stored in the different device on the network, generates a list of thumbnail images indicating the searched contents, estimates an error rate when each of the contents is received and reproduced, and outputs the list to the display apparatus, the control unit changing a state of each of the thumbnail images in the list according to the estimated error rate. The operation input unit receives reproduction instruction operation with respect to the content indicated by each of the thumbnail images. The reproduction unit receives the content, which is subjected to the reproduction instruction operation, from the different device, and reproduce the content.
US08850322B2 Customized diagrammatic view of a network topology
A method includes receiving a request for network topology information for a network. The request includes an identifier for a requesting entity and an identifier for the network. The method also includes accessing network topology information for the network based on the identifier for the network. The network topology information identifies a plurality of network elements in the network and defines a relationship between the network elements. A diagrammatic view of the network topology is determined based on the network topology information for the network. The method includes determining one or more aspects of at least one network element based on the identifier for the requesting entity. The method further includes associating the one or more aspects to the at least one network element to form a customized diagrammatic view of the network topology. The method also includes providing the customized diagrammatic view of the network topology.
US08850321B2 Cross-domain business service management
Systems, methods, and machine readable and executable instructions are provided for cross-domain business service management. Cross-domain business service management can include receiving event indications from domains. The event indications can be standardized into standardized event indications independent of domain manager or domain-specific syntax. The standardized event indications can be aggregated into aggregated event indications. A number of domain-specific descriptive semantic attributes of the aggregated event indications can be runtime analyzed. The aggregated event indications can be mapped to respective health indicators based on the runtime analysis, where each of the respective health indicators represents a health aspect of one of the domains. The respective health indicators can be displayed on a user interface.
US08850320B2 Method, system and user interface for creating and displaying of presentations
A method and system for creating at least one presentation, comprising: at least one computer; at least one application operable on the at least one computer, the at least one application configured for: receiving a plurality of assets; and allowing at least one user to define the at least one presentation over the time that the at least one presentation is to be displayed, using at least two assets to be simultaneously presented for at least one selected point in time.
US08850318B2 Apparatus and method for low bandwidth play position previewing of video content
A computer readable storage medium includes executable instructions to display video content. A cursor associated with the relative position of the video content is provided. A new cursor position associated with a request for a new relative position of the video content is received. A thumbnail image of the video content corresponding to the new relative position is displayed. The thumbnail image is then transitioned to a full display image.
US08850316B2 Presenting community and information interface concurrent to a multimedia experience that is contextually relevant on a multimedia console system
A system architecture that predefines a unique schema around content or applications so that the actions of a user are understood outside a specific piece of content or application. Additionally, the application also reports to system applications what specific locations or actions are currently being undertaken by a user. With this data, the system application can build a system whereby it concurrently presents contextual information to users outside of the specific piece of content or application in a way that supports bringing users with similar contextual states together and allow other information services to be hosted and presented concurrently to the user outside the specific piece of content or application on the multimedia device.
US08850311B2 Word input method
The present invention provides a word input method including the steps of: selectively inputting one or more letters containing the first letter of the word to be inputted; extracting, as a first priority, a word having less letters than a predetermined number, and which coincides with the word to be inputted, in a sequence from the first letter, from words containing one or more letters, from a word storage unit; extracting, as a second priority, a word having less letters than the predetermined number, from words containing one or more letters, from the word storage unit; extracting, as a third priority, a word having more letters than the predetermined number, and which coincides with the word to be inputted, in a sequence from the first letter, from words containing one or more letters, from the word storage unit; extracting, as a fourth priority, a word having more letters than the predetermined number, from words containing one or more letters, from the word storage unit; dividing the words of the first priority to the fourth priority into the group having less letters than the predetermined number and the group having more letters than the predetermined number, and displaying the groups in the order of frequency on a word display window; and enabling the letters to be converted and completed into a selected word during inputting when the word is selected by a user from among the words displayed on the word display window.
US08850304B2 System and method for visually mapping and automatically completing electronic forms
A computer apparatus and method are provided for visually mapping fields of various electronic forms to a common object model. The forms may then be dynamically completed via a runtime engine that retrieves mapping data from a relational database and uses the mapping data to automatically populate corresponding fields of the forms without manual input by the user. Specifically, a visual mapping tool displays the objects of the common object model as well as the fields of a form to be mapped. A user drags and drops one or more of the displayed objects into a mapping area, and drags and drops a field to which the one or more objects are to be mapped. The user also identifies a type of association between the selected objects and the field. A mapping entry is then generated in a map file to map the selected objects to the field.
US08850301B1 Linking to relevant content from an ereader
Technologies are described for causing an eReader to automatically and dynamically parse a document rendered on the eReader and identify content of potential interest to a user, and, in response to identifying content of potential interest, receiving at a server, from the eReader, the identified content. The server performing heuristics on the identified content at the server in conjunction with searching a network communicatively coupled to the server to locate data contextually relevant to the identified content, and the server transmitting the contextually relevant data from the server to the eReader for presentation to a user through a user interface on the eReader. This Abstract is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.
US08850296B2 Encoding method and system, decoding method and system
A decoder, an encoder, a decoding method and an encoding method are provided. The encoding method includes receiving data; generating a set of first codewords by applying a first encoding process on the received data; and performing a second encoding process on a folded version of each first codeword to provide a set of second codewords, wherein a folded version of a first codeword is representative of a storage of the first codeword in a two dimensional memory space, wherein the second codeword comprises redundancy bits.
US08850294B1 Decoding apparatus for digital communications and method for using the same
A decoding apparatus and method for estimating a reliability value by detecting uncorrected packet errors. The decoding apparatus includes a hard-decision unit and a reliability determination unit. The hard-decision unit performs hard-decision on a soft-input of a code. The reliability determination unit generates a reliability estimation value of the hard-decision result according to whether a packet error exists in the hard-decision result. The hard-decision unit performs hard-decision in response to the reliability estimation value.
US08850292B2 Flash memory system and read method in flash memory system
Methods of operating nonvolatile memory devices include reading a first plurality of multi-bit nonvolatile memory cells in the nonvolatile memory device using a first plurality of read voltages to thereby generate first read data, and then rereading the first plurality of multi-bit nonvolatile memory cells using a second plurality of read voltages that differ, at least in part, from the first plurality of read voltages, to thereby generate second read data. An operation is then undertaken to perform first and second ECC decoding operations on the first and second read data, respectively, to thereby identify whether the first read data or the second read data more accurately reflects data stored in the first plurality of multi-bit nonvolatile memory cells during the reading and rereading.
US08850291B2 Data input and output method of NAND flash memory and embedded system using the same
A data input method of a NAND flash memory includes: determining whether a size of a writing-requested data is less than a reference value; calculating an error correction code (ECC) for the data using a software ECC method when the data size is less than the reference value; and writing the data and the ECC to a data region of the NAND flash memory. A data output method of the NAND flash memory includes: determining whether a size of a reading-requested data is less than a reference value; reading the data and an error correction code (ECC) from the NAND flash memory; calculating an ECC for the read data using a software ECC method when the data size is less than the reference value; and performing an error detection and correction by comparing the calculated ECC and the read ECC.
US08850290B2 Error rate threshold for storage of data
Embodiments of the invention relate to calculation of error rate for data storage which includes determining a completion status of a read operation of data stored in a storage device, the completion status being one of at least partially complete or not complete. The fault monitoring count is incremented based on the completion status being not complete. The fault monitoring count is decreased based on the completion status being at least partially complete. The fault monitoring count being decreased according to a value based on the number of bytes successfully read. The error rate indicator value is being calculated based on an exponential decay rate related to the number of bytes read. The fault monitoring count threshold is monitored every time the fault monitoring count is incremented and the storage device is identified as faulty once the threshold limit is exceeded.
US08850287B2 Methods and apparatus for zone group identifier replacement in fast context switching enhanced serial attached SCSI expanders
Methods and apparatus for enabling FCS and zoning operations in an enhanced SAS expander. Features and aspects hereof provide for enhanced logic within a SAS expander to detect receipt of an SAF in a zoning capable SAS expander and to modify the SAF to correct the zone group identifier and associated CRC to enable switching among a plurality of established connection (as provided by FCS enhancement) while maintaining accurate zoning information.
US08850286B2 Method and apparatus for encoding and decoding data
A method and apparatus for selecting interleaver sizes for turbo codes is provided herein. During operation information block of size K is received. An interleaver size K′ is determined that is related to K″, where K″ from a set of sizes; wherein the set of sizes comprise K″=ap×f, pmin≦p≦pmax; fmin≦f≦fmax, wherein a is an integer and f is a continuous integer between fmin and fmax, p takes integer values between pmin and pmax, a>1, pmax>pmin, pmin>1. The information block of size K is padded into an input block of size K′ using filler bits, if needed. Encoding is performed using the original input block and the interleaved input block to obtain a codeword block using a turbo encoder. The codeword block is transmitted through the channel.
US08850285B2 System and method for transmitting and receiving acknowledgement information
A system and method for transmitting and receiving acknowledgement information are provided. A method for communications device operations includes determining a hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) response for each component carrier (CC) in a set of CCs configured by higher layer signaling, thereby producing a set of HARQ responses; generating an information vector from the set of HARQ responses, encoding the information vector; and transmitting the encoded information vector. The information vector comprises one or more bits respectively corresponding to a CC in the set of CCs. A bit is assigned a fixed value if HARQ response of a corresponding CC is set to DTX in response to no transmission detected over the CC.
US08850281B2 Digital signatures
Technologies are generally described for secure digital signatures that employ hardware public physically unclonable functions. Each unique digital signature generator can be implemented as hardware such that manufacturing variations provide measurable performance differences resulting in unique, unclonable devices or systems. For example, slight timing variations through a large number of logic gates may be used as a hardware public physically unclonable function of the digital signature unit. The hardware digital signature unit can be parameterized such that its physical characteristics may be publicly distributed to signature verifiers. The verifiers may then simulate randomly selected portions of the signature for verification.
US08850280B2 Scan enable timing control for testing of scan cells
An integrated circuit comprises scan test circuitry and additional circuitry subject to testing utilizing the scan test circuitry. The scan test circuitry comprises at least one scan chain having a plurality of scan cells. The scan test circuitry further comprises scan enable timing control circuitry coupled between a scan enable input of the scan test circuitry and scan enable inputs of respective ones of the scan cells. The scan enable timing control circuitry is operative to control timing of a transition between a scan shift configuration of the scan cells and a functional data capture configuration of the scan cells so as to permit testing of the scan cells in the scan shift configuration.
US08850278B2 Fault tolerant scannable glitch latch
A fault tolerant scannable glitch latch for use with scan chains that enable reset, debug and repairability of machines and parts is described. A scan shift enable signal controls a switch such that a stuck-at zero fault on a data input line is prevented from driving voltage to a state node or pulling the state node high during a scan chain operation. Propagation of the stuck-at zero fault is therefore eliminated. The scan shift enable signal also controls a switch that enables a parallel path to ground for the scan data and state node which would otherwise have been driven high due to the stuck-at zero fault.
US08850273B2 Dynamic hardware watchpoint
An apparatus for monitoring changes to a block of data is disclosed. A first hardware watchpoint is set to monitor changes to the block of data at a current location of the block of data in memory and a second hardware watchpoint is set to monitor changes at a selected location in the memory where a reference to the block of data is located. Responsive to the second hardware watchpoint being triggered by a change at the selected location where the reference to the block of data is located, a new location of the block of data in the memory is identified based on the change that triggered the second hardware watchpoint. Subsequent to identifying the new location of the block of data, the first hardware watchpoint is reset to monitor changes to the block of data at the new location of the block of data.
US08850272B2 Method and system to measure preventability of failures of an application
Embodiments of the disclosure relate to a method and system for measuring preventability metric of an application. The preventability metric quantifies the extent to which bugs and failures, and the causes for failures are diagnosed in the application. Also, the extent to which appropriate preventive or corrective activities are deployed before deployment of the application is provided. Further, a framework to monitor and control the preventability metric systematically is disclosed. The methodology is to obtain the efficiency of the preventive techniques used on the application, use the obtained efficiency measures to arrive at a preventability metric that quantifies the preventability of failures of the application.
US08850270B2 Test selection
Computer-implemented method, computerized apparatus and a computer program product for test selection. The computer-implemented method comprising: obtaining a test suite comprising a plurality of tests for a Software Under Test (SUT); and selecting a subset of the test suite, wherein the subset provides coverage of the SUT that correlates to a coverage by a workload of the SUT, wherein the workload defines a set of input events to the SUT thereby defining portions of the SUT that are to be invoked during execution.
US08850268B2 Analysis of system test procedures for testing a modular system
The present invention relates to a method of determining an analyzing level for analyzing a system test procedure for testing a modular system having functional modules, comprising acquiring dependency data comprising dependency information describing at least one functional dependency of at least one functional module, acquiring change data comprising change information describing a change in a module test procedure for testing at least part of the at least one functional module located at a first system test level, acquiring impact data comprising impact information describing an impact of the change in the module test procedure on testing a functionality of the at least one functional module based on the dependency information and the change information, determining, based on the impact information, analyzing level data comprising analyzing level information describing an analyzing level being the system test level at which the system test procedure is analyzed.
US08850267B2 Middleware for multiprocessor software testing
An apparatus having a memory and multiple processors coupled to the memory is disclosed. The memory may be configured to store middleware. One or more processors may be configured to (a) generate initial test vectors to test one or more software modules executed on the processors and (b) generate modified test vectors by translating the initial test vectors in the middleware to a format that matches multiple hardware dependencies of the processors and multiple software dependencies of multiple operating systems. The test vectors generally have another format that is independent of (a) the hardware dependencies of the processors and (b) the software dependencies of the operating systems executed by the processors. The processors may be configured to generate a plurality of test results by exercising the software modules with the modified test vectors.
US08850265B2 Processing test cases for applications to be tested
The present invention discloses a method and system for processing test cases for applications to be tested. The method includes evaluating two applications to be tested; obtaining test cases for the two applications to be tested and determining resources and execution times needed by the test cases for the two applications to be tested. According to the compatibility relationship between the two applications to be tested, and the resources and execution times needed by the test cases for the two applications to be tested, the test cases for the two applications to be tested are clustered to a virtual machine instance to test the test cases for the two applications to be tested on the virtual machine instance.
US08850264B2 Information terminal and information processing method
An information terminal includes a start processing unit of a central processing unit which executes restart processing and a notification unit which outputs reason information indicating a reason for executing the restart processing.
US08850257B2 Device and method for preventing lost synchronization
A method and device for preventing a defect in a CDR circuit from hindering synchronization between connection nodes and for preventing connection failures. The CDR circuit generates a synchronization clock from received data. A connection failure processor performs a connection failure process if synchronization based on the synchronization clock between connection nodes is not established when a first predetermined time from when the reception of the received data is started elapses. A correction processor corrects operation of the CDR circuit if synchronization based on the synchronization clock between connection nodes is not established when a second predetermined time, which is shorter than the first predetermined time, from when the reception of the received data is started elapses.
US08850255B2 Storage system control apparatus and control method for utilizing a relay unit of an abnormal control unit
A storage system includes a storage and control units. In each of the control units: a relay unit relays access to the storage; an access controller accesses the storage through one of the relay unit in the control unit and the relay unit in another of the control units; and an operational-state controller determines whether or not the relay unit in the above-mentioned another control unit is usable when the operational-state controller detects occurrence of an abnormality in the above-mentioned another control unit, and makes the above-mentioned another control unit transition to a partially-operational state when the relay unit in the above-mentioned another control unit is usable. In the partially-operational state, at least the access controller in the above-mentioned another control unit is not in operation and the access controller in the control unit can access the storage through the relay unit in the above-mentioned another control unit.
US08850253B2 Information processing unit, power-saving management program, and storage medium stored with the power-saving management program
An information processing unit having an auto power-off function includes a mode setting means for setting one mode from a plurality of pre-prepared modes. The pre-prepared modes include a first power-saving mode and a second power-saving mode. Also included are a processing execution means for executing game application or contents replay as internal processing, and a power controlling means for controlling power of the information processing unit. The power controlling means continues power-on in the first power-saving mode and changes to power-off in the second power-saving mode when a non-operated state in which no input operation has been carried out by the user has continued for a predetermined time or longer during execution of the internal processing.
US08850247B2 Power management for a system on a chip (SoC)
In one embodiment, the present invention includes a method for sending a first link handshake signal between a first subsystem and a power management unit (PMU) of a system on a chip (SoC) to request entry into a power saving state for the first subsystem, sending a second link handshake signal between the first subsystem and the PMU to acknowledge the request, and placing the first subsystem into the power saving state without further signaling between the PMU and the first subsystem. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US08850246B2 Display apparatus and control method thereof
A display apparatus and a method thereof including: a display unit which displays an image based on a video signal; a battery unit which supplies battery power; and a controller which controls adjusts brightness of the image based on residual quantity of the battery unit when the battery power is supplied.
US08850243B2 Non-intrusive power management
A method and system for managing power consumption of a pool of computing devices that are logically grouped to provide a common set of functionality is disclosed. One aspect of certain embodiments includes predicting resource utilization for each device without installing customized software, firmware or hardware on the device.
US08850242B2 Self-powered devices and methods
The self-powered device is configured to be powered by energy collected from a surrounding environment. The self-powered device includes an energy collector, and a memory having instructions for selecting one of a plurality of modes of operation. The energy collector is configured to collect energy to power the self-powered device from a surrounding environment in which the self-powered device is located. The plurality of modes of operation include: (i) a low-power mode of operation in which the self-powered device consumes less than a pre-determined or adaptively-determined amount of power and the self-powered device uses less than its full capabilities, and (ii) and a high-power mode of operation in which self-powered device consumes more than the pre-determined or adaptively-determined amount of power and the self-powered device uses its full capabilities. The instructions for selecting one of a plurality of modes of are configured to (a) select the low-power mode of operation when available energy becomes insufficient to fully power the self-powered device, and (b) select the high-power mode of operation when sufficient energy again becomes available to fully power the self-powered device.
US08850241B2 Multi-stage power adapter configured to provide low power upon initial connection of the power adapter to the host device and high power thereafter upon notification from the host device to the power adapter
Multi-stage power adapter techniques are described in which a power adapter for a device is configured to selectively switch between a relatively low power supply and a relatively high power supply. The low power supply may be employed upon initial connection of the adapter to a host device to ensure that the adapter is safe when disconnected and does not supply full power before the device is ready to receive the high power supply. The low power supply may supply enough power for the host device to detect the connection of the adapter and establish initial communication with the adapter. A switch to the high power supply by the adapter may then occur in response to a notification from the host device that indicates the host device is ready for the high power supply. The switch to high power supply enables normal operation of the host device.
US08850238B2 Server rack system with integrated management module connected to first and second network switches to manage operations of rack internal device
A server rack system includes a first network switch, a second network switch, servers, a rack internal device, and an integrated management module (IMM). Management network ports of baseboard management controllers (BMCs) of the servers are connected to the first network switch. A management network port of the rack internal device is connected to the second network switch. A first management network port and a second management network port of the IMM are respectively connected to the first network switch and the second network switch. The IMM communicates with the BMCs of the servers through the first network switch, so as to obtain operation states of the servers, or control operations of the servers. The IMM communicates with the rack internal device through the second network switch, so as to obtain an operation state of the rack internal device, or control an operation of the rack internal device.
US08850237B2 Data processing system power distribution using UPS units selectively coupled to loads by reserve bus based on the load states
Some embodiments of the inventive subject matter provide a power distribution system for a data processing system. The power distribution system includes a plurality of uninterruptible power supply (UPS) units, respective ones of which are configured to be coupled to respective loads via respective load busses, at least one reserve bus, a switching circuit configured to selectively couple and decouple the UPS units and the load busses to and from the at least one reserve bus and a control circuit configured to control the switching circuit responsive to a state of the data processing system. The control circuit may be configured to cause the switching circuit to couple the first UPS unit to the at least one reserve bus concurrent with the first UPS unit being coupled to a first load via a first load bus.
US08850231B2 Data encryption using a key and moniker for mobile storage media adapted for library storage
Disclosed are a method and apparatus for a data storage library comprising a plurality of drives and a combination bridge controller device adapted to direct and make compatible communication traffic between a client and the plurality of drives. The combination bridge controller device is further adapted to encrypt a first data package received from the client. The combination bridge controller device is further adapted to transmit the encrypted first data package, a first moniker and a first message authentication code to one of the plurality of drives for storage to a cooperating mobile storage medium. The combination bridge controller device is further adapted to decrypt the first data package when used in combination with a first key associated with the first moniker and guarantee the decryption of the first data package was successfully accomplished with authentication of the first message authentication code.
US08850230B2 Cloud-based movable-component binding
This document describes tools capable of enabling cloud-based movable-component binding. The tools, in some embodiments, bind protected media content to a movable component in a mobile computing device in a cryptographically secure manner without requiring the movable component to perform a complex cryptographic function. By so doing the mobile computing device may request access to content and receive permission to use the content quickly and in a cryptographically robust way.
US08850224B2 Media-following encryption policy control
Example articles of manufacture, methods, and systems facilitate having encryption policy follow an article of manufacture like a tape cartridge. One example article of manufacture includes a media portion (e.g., tape) and a non-media portion (e.g., housing). The media portion is configured to store machine readable information. The article of manufacture could be a tape, a disk, a memory, and other computer readable media. The article of manufacture also includes an encryption policy information indicator. The encryption policy information indicator can be configured to store information that controls an encryption policy associated with the article of manufacture. Therefore, encryption policy can, for example, follow a tape cartridge rather than be resident solely in a controlling application (e.g., tape library).
US08850221B2 Protection against side channel attacks with an integrity check
The invention relates to a method for protecting a sensitive operation by checking the integrity of at least a subset of the data manipulated by the sensitive operation. Data to be checked are divided into blocks, an intermediate integrity check value being computed for each block, the intermediate integrity check values being computed in random order. The invention also relates to a cryptographic device wherein at least one sensitive operation of the cryptographic device is protected by a method according to the invention.
US08850220B2 Method and apparatus with chipset-based protection for local and remote authentication of booting from peripheral devices
Method and apparatus enabling a computing system to deter or thwart unauthorized boot-up from peripheral devices are disclosed herein. In various embodiments, a monitoring module and a managing module are employed cooperating with each other to authorize users in booting up the computing system from peripheral devices.
US08850213B2 Method for verifying an electronic signature and data processing device
A method for verifying an electronic signature is described including determining a residue class given by the signature; determining an integer having the residue class; determining a field element of a finite field such that the field element corresponds to the integer according to a predetermined mapping of the finite field to the set of integers; determining whether the field element fulfills a predetermined criterion and deciding whether the signature is valid based on whether the field element fulfills the predetermined criterion.
US08850211B2 Method and apparatus for improving code and data signing
Methods and computing devices enable code and/or data software on computer devices to be verified using methods and signatures which can be updated by a signing server after distribution. Updated verification methods and signatures may be provided in a second signature file. When a computing device unpacks an application for execution it may check whether a second signature file is associated with the application file. If not it may connect to a signing server to request a second signature file for the software. The signing server then may request information related to the software sufficient to determine if the software is trustworthy. If determined to be trustworthy, the signing server can send a second signature file to the computer device for use in verifying the software henceforth. The second signature file may include new or modified verification methods and a new signature.
US08850210B2 Authentication system, authentication device, terminal, and verifying device
An authentication system, including a service use device 1 which presents blurred information obtained by blurring certification information desired to be certified, service providing devices 3a to 3c which verify the validity of blurred information presented by the service use device 1, and an authentication device 2 which supports the service use device 1 to issue valid blurred information. The authentication device 2 adds a digital signature to information including certification information and blurred information, and generates authentication information including the obtained digital signature, certification information, and blurred information (S2). The service use device 1 generates, based on the authentication information generated in the authentication device 2, blurred authentication information including blurred information selected according to an instruction from a user, instruction information representing the instruction, and a digital signature (S4). The service providing devices 3a to 3c verify the validity of blurred information indicated by instruction information included in the blurred authentication information generated by the service use device 1, based on the digital signature included in the blurred authentication information (S6).
US08850209B2 Schema signing
In one embodiment, an object in a database schema may be verified as having a valid digital signature associated with a trusted entity. An application may be permitted access to the object of the database schema only when the object of the database schema is verified to have a valid digital signature associated with the trusted entity. In another embodiment, an object in a database schema may be verified as having a digital signature associated with at least one trusted entity. An application may be permitted access to the object of the database schema only when the digital signature for the object is verified to be associated with the at least one trusted entity.
US08850208B1 Certificate crosschecking by multiple certificate authorities
Embodiments relate to a method for generating a set of authentication certificates by a set of certificate authority devices. The method includes receiving, by the set of certificate authority devices, a set of certificate requests from a user device. The method includes generating, by the set of certificate authority devices, a set of crosschecked certificates, each crosschecked certificate of the set of crosschecked certificates being configured to cryptographically verify the remaining crosschecked certificate of the set of crosschecked certificates. The method includes transmitting, by the set of certificate authority devices, the set of crosschecked certificates to the user device, the set of crosschecked certificates configured to be utilized by the user device in establishing a secured communication channel over a network between the user device and a client device.
US08850205B2 Key distribution method and authentication server
A method of and an authentication server for distributing a key are disclosed. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the method of distributing a key, which is distributed by an authentication server connected with wireless terminals through a communication network, for encrypting and decrypting data in accordance with providing a service can include: obtaining characteristic information by decrypting encrypted characteristic information that has been received from each of n number of wireless terminals; generating a random key; generating a group key used for encrypting and decrypting data in accordance with providing a service; and generating a distribution key by using the random key, the group key and the characteristic information, and transmitting the distribution key to each wireless terminal.
US08850204B2 Multi-band/multi-link secure key generation and delivery protocol
A method is described for negotiating the use of multi-link ciphering and for the generation of unique keys for each of the links using a single 4-way handshake protocol exchange.
US08850203B2 Secure key management in multimedia communication system
Principles of the invention provide one or more secure key management protocols for use in communication environments such as a media plane of a multimedia communication system. For example, a method for performing an authenticated key agreement protocol, in accordance with a multimedia communication system, between a first party and a second party comprises, at the first party, the following steps. Note that encryption/decryption is performed in accordance with an identity based encryption operation. At least one private key for the first party is obtained from a key service. A first message comprising an encrypted first random key component is sent from the first party to the second party, the first random key component having been computed at the first party, and the first message having been encrypted using a public key of the second party. A second message comprising an encrypted random key component pair is received at the first party from the second party, the random key component pair having been formed from the first random key component and a second random key component computed at the second party, and the second message having been encrypted at the second party using a public key of the first party. The second message is decrypted by the first party using the private key obtained by the first party from the key service to obtain the second random key component. A third message comprising the second random key component is sent from the first party to the second party, the third message having been encrypted using the public key of the second party. The first party computes a secure key based on the second random key component, the secure key being used for conducting at least one call session with the second party via a media plane of the multimedia communication system.
US08850200B1 Method and apparatus for secure communications through a trusted intermediary server
A method and apparatus for a trusted intermediary server to assist with the secure exchange of data across a communications network, and in particular a packet-based network, such as the public Internet or an intranet. Communications are routed between private ports of the clients through the trusted intermediary server, with the private key transfer supported by a second type of communication medium. Although the trusted intermediary server negotiates the connection and is involved in the process, the communicants can perform their own key agreement and authentication for protecting data routed through the system.
US08850196B2 Methods for authentication using near-field
Authentication methods are used to authenticate, a device1 having an ESN1 (electronic serial number), a device2 having an ESN2, and/or a user of the devices. In one implementation, device1 receives the ESN2 in a near-field signal; derives an authentication result as a function of the ESN1 and ESN2; and sends the authentication result to an authenticator device to use in completing authentication. Authentication is confirmed when the device1 authentication result matches an authentication result independently generated by the authenticator device, which is provisioned with the ESN1 and ESN2. In a second implementation, device1 generates a RAND1 (random number) and sends the RAND1 to device2 over a near-filed link. An authenticator device confirms authentication upon receiving the same RAND1 from both device1 and device2.
US08850195B2 Tethered device systems and methods
Systems and methods are described for applying digital rights management techniques to tethered devices. In one embodiment, a host device is operable to translate a relatively sophisticated license into a simpler format for use on a relatively low-capability device. In another embodiment, a method of using extended SCSI commands to communicate over a USB connection is provided.
US08850191B2 Scalable groups of authenticated entities
Example embodiments provide various techniques for securing communications within a group of entities. In one example method, a request from an entity to join the group is received and a signed, digital certificate associated with the entity is accessed. Here, the signed, digital certificate is signed with a group private key that is associated with a certification authority for the group. The signed, digital certificate is added to a group roster, and this addition is to admit the entity into the group. The group roster with the signed, digital certificate is itself signed with the group private key and distributed to the group, which includes the entity that transmitted the request. Communication to the entity is then encrypted using the signed, digital certificate included in the group roster.
US08850185B1 Post attack man-in-the-middle detection
Technologies are described herein for post attack man-in-the-middle detection. A first computer receives and stores public key certificates when connections are established. The first computer also uploads the stored public key certificates associated with a domain to a second computer each time a connection is established with the domain. The second computer receives the public key certificates from the first computer. The second computer then determines whether any of the public key certificates provided by the first computer are fraudulent certificates by comparing the received certificates to known valid certificates. If the second computer determines that the first computer has received one or more fraudulent certificates, the second computer may cause action to be taken with regard to the fraudulent certificates.
US08850184B2 Transmission management apparatus, program, transmission management system, and transmission management method
A transmission management apparatus includes a receiving unit that receives, from a first transmission terminal 10, a communication request for a communication with a second transmission terminal 10; a fists storage unit that stores therein terminal identification information for identifying the transmission terminals 10 and relay device identification information for identifying a relay device 30 that relays data to be transmitted and received by the first transmission terminal 10, in an associated manner; a relay device selecting unit that selects the relay device 30 associated with the terminal identification information of the first transmission terminal 10 in the first storage unit; a second storage unit that stores therein the relay device identification information and encryption necessity information in an associated manner; and an encryption necessity determining unit that determines whether encryption is needed based on the encryption necessity information associated, in the second storage unit, with the relay device 30 selected by the relay device selecting unit.
US08850178B2 Method and apparatus for establishing safe processor operating points
A system and method is provided for establishing safe processor operating points. Some embodiments may include a tamper resistant storage element that stores information regarding one or more operating points of an adjustable processor operating parameter. Some embodiments may further include an element to determine what the current processor operating point is of the operating parameter, and an element to compare the current operating point of the operating parameter with the stored information.
US08850176B2 Electronic device and speed-up booting module and method thereof using heat pipes
A speed-up booting module of an electronic device includes a first heat pipe with two ends connected to a first component and a second component respectively, and the first heat pipe including a first working fluid, wherein when a booting process is performed at a first environmental temperature, the heat from the first component in operation is transferred to the second component so that a temperature of the second component reaches an operating temperature; and a second heat pipe with two ends connected to the first component and a third component respectively, and the second heat pipe including a second working fluid, a boiling point of the second working fluid is higher than the boiling point of the first working fluid; wherein at a second environmental temperature, a temperature of the second component reaches the boiling point, the heat from the first component is transferred to the second component.
US08850173B2 BIOS image manager
A machine and method to manage BIOS images.
US08850166B2 Load pair disjoint facility and instruction therefore
A Load/Store Disjoint instruction, when executed by a CPU, accesses operands from two disjoint memory locations and sets condition code indicators to indicate whether or not the two operands appeared to be accessed atomically by means of block-concurrent interlocked fetch with no intervening stores to the operands from other CPUs. In a Load Pair Disjoint form of the instruction, the accesses are loads and the disjoint data is stored in general registers.
US08850165B2 Method and apparatus for assigning thread priority in a processor or the like
In a multi-threaded processor, thread priority variables are set up in memory. The actual assignment of thread priority is based on the expiration of a thread precedence counter. To further augment, the effectiveness of the thread precedence counters, starting counters are associated with each thread that serve as a multiplier for the value to be used in the thread precedence counter. The value in the starting counters are manipulated so as to prevent one thread from getting undue priority to the resources of the multi-threaded processor.
US08850164B2 Microprocessor that fuses MOV/ALU/JCC instructions
A microprocessor receives first, second, and third program-adjacent macroinstructions. The first macroinstruction moves a first operand to a first register from a second register. The second macroinstruction performs an arithmetic/logic operation using the first operand in the second register and a second operand in a third register to generate a result, loads the result back into the first register, and updates condition codes based on the result. The third macroinstruction conditionally jumps to a target address. An instruction translator simultaneously translates the first, second, and third program-adjacent macroinstructions into a single micro-operation for execution by an execution unit. The micro-operation performs the arithmetic/logic operation using the first operand in the second register and the second operand in third register to generate the result, loads the result back into the first register, updates the condition codes based on the result, and conditionally jumps to the target address.
US08850163B2 Automatically routing super-compute interconnects
A mechanism is provided for automatically routing network interconnects in a data processing system. A processor in a node of a plurality of nodes receives network topology from neighboring nodes in the plurality of nodes within the data processing system. The processor constructs a system node map that identifies a physical connectivity between the node and the neighboring nodes. The processor programs a switch in the node with a connectivity map that indicates a set of point-to-point connections with the neighboring nodes. The set of point-to-point connections comprise locally-connected connections and pass-through connections.
US08850159B2 Method and system for latency optimized ATS usage
Methods and systems for latency optimized ATS usage are disclosed. Aspects of one method may include communicating a memory access request using an untranslated address and also an address translation request using the same untranslated address, where the translation request may be sent without waiting for a result of the memory access request. The memory access request and the address translation request may be made in either order. A translation agent may be used to translate the untranslated address, and the translated address may be communicated to the device that made the memory access request. The translated address may also be used to make the memory access. Accordingly, by communicating the translated address without having to wait for completion of the memory access, or vice versa, the requesting device may reduce latency for memory accesses when using untranslated addresses.
US08850156B2 Method and system for managing virtual machine storage space and physical host
A method for managing Virtual Machine (VM) storage space is provided. In the method, a Storage Balloon Agent (SBA) module deployed in a VM is adopted to directly acquire virtual storage free block information and deliver the acquired virtual storage free block information to a Storage Balloon Daemon (SBD) module deployed in a Virtual Machine Monitor (VMM) layer; and the SBD module releases a part or all of physical storage space corresponding to the virtual storage free block information, and marks virtual storage blocks corresponding to the released physical storage space as unavailable. A corresponding system and a physical host are further provided in the present invention. Through the method of an embodiment of the present invention, use condition of virtual storage space can be acquired in real time, and a large number of read and write operations of a storage system can be avoided.
US08850155B2 DDR 2D Vref training
A method is provided for performing memory operations in response to instructions to perform a double data rate (DDR) memory reference voltage training in the voltage domain by a processing device and determining a DDR memory reference voltage and a DDR memory delay time based upon the memory operation. Computer readable storage media are also provided. A circuit is provided that includes a communication interface portion coupled to a memory and to a processing device. The circuit also includes a circuit portion, coupled to the communication interface portion that has a hardware state machine or an algorithm. The state machine or algorithm provides instructions to the processing device to perform a double data rate (DDR) reference voltage training in the voltage domain.
US08850147B2 Deleting relations in multi-target, point-in-time-copy architectures with data deduplication
A method for deleting a relation between a source and a target in a multi-target architecture is described. The multi-target architecture includes a source and multiple targets mapped thereto. In one embodiment, such a method includes initially identifying a relation for deletion from the multi-target architecture. A target associated with the relation is then identified. The method then identifies a sibling target that inherits data from the target. Once the target and the sibling target are identified, the method copies the data from the target to the sibling target. The relation between the source and the target is then deleted. A corresponding computer program product is also disclosed and claimed herein.
US08850145B1 Managing consistency groups in storage systems
A method is used in managing consistency groups in storage systems. A consistency group is created from a set of snapshot mount points. A snapshot mount point is a logical object accessible for using a replica of a logical volume. An operation is performed on the consistency group.
US08850133B1 Using dynamic block sizes in data transfer operations
Dynamically adjusting a block size in a data transfer operation is disclosed. An indication that a data transfer operation has commenced is received. A first portion of data is read using a first read block size. A first throughput associated with the first read block size is determined. A second portion of data that is different from the first portion of data is read using a second block size that is different from the first read block size. One of the first and second read block sizes is used to complete the data transfer operation based on a comparison of the first throughput and a throughput of the second read block size. This process can be repeated several times as necessary.
US08850132B1 Method and system for providing a shared data resource coordinator within a storage virtualizing data processing system
A method and system for providing a shared data resource coordinator within a storage virtualizing data processing system is disclosed. According to one embodiment of the present invention, a first node of a plurality of nodes is configured to process requests to access a shared data resource on behalf of the plurality of nodes, where the plurality of nodes includes a logical volume configuration server configured to present a logical volume to one or more logical volume configuration clients. A second node is then selected from the plurality of nodes and configured to process requests to access the shared data resource on behalf of the plurality of nodes.
US08850131B2 Memory request scheduling based on thread criticality
A method includes scheduling a memory request requested by a thread executing on a processing system. The scheduling is based on at least one of a number of critical sections being executed on the processing system by the thread and a number of other threads executing on the processing system being blocked from execution on the processing system by execution of the thread. In at least one embodiment of the invention, the thread is associated with a first application of a plurality of applications executing on the processing system and the scheduling is further based on an indicator of application priority.
US08850127B2 Managing concurrent accesses to a cache
Various embodiments of the present invention allow concurrent accesses to a cache. A request to update an object stored in a cache is received. A first data structure comprising a new value for the object is created in response to receiving the request. A cache pointer is atomically modified to point to the first data structure. A second data structure comprising an old value for the cached object is maintained until a process, which holds a pointer to the old value of the cached object, at least one of one of ends and indicates that the old value is no longer needed.
US08850126B2 Exclusive access during a critical sub-operation to enable simultaneous operations
A method, apparatus, and system of exclusive access during a critical sub-operation to enable simultaneous operations are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method of a host device includes identifying a critical sub-operation of an operation associated with a storage system, applying a lock associated with the critical sub-operation based on a type of the sub-operation, providing exclusive access of the critical sub-operation to a first instance requiring the critical sub-operation, denying other instances access to the critical sub-operation during an interval comprising a period when the first instance executes the critical sub-operation, and releasing the lock when the critical sub-operation is no longer required by the first instance. The first instance and the other instances may originate on different host devices.
US08850124B1 Method, system, apparatus, and computer-readable medium for implementing caching in a storage system
A method, system, apparatus, and computer-readable medium are provided for performing read-ahead operations for sequential read operations. A method includes maintaining a bitmap including a plurality of bits, each bit corresponding to a sector of the disk cache and containing data indicating whether the corresponding sector is valid and can be used to satisfy read requests. The method includes receiving a request to read a sector of the disk cache, and in response, identifying a bit in the bitmap that corresponds to the requested sector. Further, the method includes determining whether the disk cache contains valid data for a sector previous to the requested sector by examining a bit in the bitmap previous to the bit that corresponds to the requested sector, and in response, reading sequentially into the disk cache sectors of the disk cache corresponding to bits in the bitmap following the bit corresponding to the requested sector.
US08850123B2 Cache prefetch learning
An apparatus generally having a processor, a cache and a circuit is disclosed. The processor may be configured to generate (i) a plurality of access addresses and (ii) a plurality of program counter values corresponding to the access addresses. The cache may be configured to present in response to the access addresses (i) a plurality of data words and (ii) a plurality of address information corresponding to the data words. The circuit may be configured to record a plurality of events in a file in response to a plurality of cache misses. A first of the events in the file due to a first of the cache misses generally includes (i) a first of the program counter values, (ii) a first of the address information and (iii) a first time to prefetch a first of the data word from a memory to the cache.
US08850119B2 Operating memory with specified cache address
Embodiments are provided for operating a memory device by issuing certain instructions to the memory device that specify a cache and/or memory array address where an operation is to occur. One such method may include loading data into a specified address of a cache of the memory device, in which the specified address of the cache of the memory device may be specified by a first program sequence received at an interface of the memory device from a host external to the memory device. The method may also include writing the data from the specified address of the cache of the memory device to a specified address of a memory array of the memory device, in which the specified address of the memory array of the memory device may be specified by a second program sequence received at the interface from the host.
US08850118B2 Circuit and method for dynamically changing reference value for address counter based on cache determination
A memory access determination circuit includes a counter that switches between a first reference value and a second reference value in accordance with a control signal to generate a count value based on the first reference value or the second reference value. A controller performs a cache determination based on an address that corresponds to the count value and outputs the control signal in accordance with the cache determination. A changing unit changes the second reference value in accordance with the cache determination.
US08850113B2 Data migration between a raid memory and a dispersed storage network memory
A method begins by a processing module determining whether to convert data between a redundant array of independent disks (RAID) format and a dispersed storage network (DSN) format. The method continues with the processing module retrieving the data from a RAID memory to produce retrieved RAID data when the data is to be converted from the RAID format to the DSN format. The method continues with the processing module converting stripe-block data of the retrieved RAID data into a plurality of sets of encoded data slices and outputting the plurality of sets of encoded data slices to at least one of the RAID memory and a DSN memory for storage therein.
US08850109B2 Content addressable memory data clustering block architecture
An apparatus having a first circuit and a second circuit. The first circuit may be configured to (i) parse a first data word into a first data portion and a second data portion and (ii) parse a first address into a first address portion and a second address portion. The second circuit generally has a plurality of memory blocks. The second circuit may be configured to store the second data portion in a particular one of the memory blocks using (i) the first data portion to determine the particular memory block and (ii) the first address portion to determine a particular one of a plurality of locations within the particular memory block. The data portion may not be stored in the memory blocks. The particular location may be determined independently of the second address portion.
US08850107B2 Memory system storing management information and method of controlling same
A memory system includes a management-information restoring unit. The management-information restoring unit determines whether a short break has occurred referring to a pre-log or a post-log in a NAND memory. The management-information restoring unit determines that a short break has occurred when the pre-log or the post-log is present in the NAND memory. In that case, the management-information restoring unit determines timing of occurrence of the short break, and, after selecting a pre-log or a post-log used for restoration, performs restoration of the management information reflecting these logs on a snapshot. Thereafter, the management-information restoring unit applies recovery processing to all write-once blocks in the NAND memory, takes the snapshot again, and opens the snapshot and the logs in the past.
US08850105B2 Method for controlling memory system, information processing apparatus, and storage medium
A method, to be executed by an application program according to an embodiment, for controlling a memory system provided with a nonvolatile memory includes: acquiring an unused memory area from an operating system installed in an information processing apparatus provided with the memory system; prohibiting the acquired unused memory area from being used by any application program other than the above application program; acquiring the address of the acquired unused memory area; and notifying the address of the acquired unused memory area to the memory system. In the method according to an embodiment for controlling a memory system, prohibition state put by the prohibiting is preserved until receiving a change instruction.
US08850101B2 System and method to reduce memory access latencies using selective replication across multiple memory ports
In one embodiment, a system comprises a plurality of memory ports. The memory ports are distributed into a plurality of subsets, where each subset is identified by a subset index. The system further comprises a first address hashing unit configured to receive a request including at least one virtual memory address. Each virtual memory address is associated with a replication factor, and the virtual memory address refers to graph data. The first address hashing unit translates the replication factor into a corresponding subset index based on the virtual memory address, and converts the virtual memory address to a hardware based memory address. The hardware based address refers to data in the memory ports within a subset indicated by the corresponding subset index.
US08850097B2 USB apparatus and embedded system incorporating same
USB apparatus suitable for interconnection with a USB host having a D− bus coupled to ground via a pull-down resistance, the USB apparatus including a microcontroller having a first port and a second port, the first port being coupled via a resistance to a voltage source and a switch, operated by the microcontroller via the second port, selectably interconnecting the first port and the bus of the USB host.
US08850093B2 Mouse with a replaceable sensing unit
A mouse with a replaceable sensing unit comprises a main body, a processor unit and a sensing unit. The main body has a containing slot and a first electrical interface. The first electrical interface is disposed in the containing slot. The processor unit is disposed in the main body, and coupled to the first electrical interface. The sensing unit is replaceably disposed in the containing slot of the main body, and the sensing unit is coupled to the first electrical interface when the sensing unit is disposed in the containing slot. The processor unit gets via the first electrical interface an input signal generated when the sensing unit senses the movement of the main body, and then relatively outputs a cursor control signal to a computer apparatus.
US08850089B1 Method and apparatus for unified final buffer with pointer-based and page-based scheme for traffic optimization
A method and apparatus for unified final buffer with pointer-based and page-based scheme for traffic optimization have been disclosed.
US08850087B2 Storage device and method for controlling the same
The present invention provides the function of dynamically switching the allocation of snapshot data in a pool according to the use status of the pool. More specifically, the present invention provides the function of dynamically switching a storage mode to be applied to the pool from a storage mode in which the snapshot data is aggregated in a specific pool volume to a storage mode in which the snapshot data is distributed to plural pool volumes, or from the storage mode in which the snapshot data is distributed to the plural pool volumes to the storage mode in which the snapshot data is aggregated in the specific pool volume, according to the use status of the pool.
US08850084B2 Data processing systems for audio signals and methods of operating same
A data processing system includes an audio processor with a main memory for storing data, first and second buffers for temporarily storing the data to input/output an audio signal, and a data input/output (I/O) unit for outputting the stored data. A direct memory access (DMA) controller is provided for transmitting data between the main memory and the first and second buffers according to a DMA transmission process. If transmission of the data stored in the first buffer ends and an interrupt signal is thus generated, the DMA controller increases sizes of the first and second buffers during transmission of the data stored in the second buffer.
US08850081B2 Method, system and apparatus for handling events for partitions in a socket with sub-socket partitioning
In one aspect, the issues of events that may impact one or more partitions of sub-socket partitioning in one or more sockets can be handled. Specifically, events for partitions can be handled in a socket with sub-socket partitioning, wherein the events may include reset, interrupts, errors and reliability, availability, and serviceability (RAS) management.
US08850080B2 Mobile media identification system for use with a storage device
Disclosed is a method and apparatus system to identify mobile media magazine for use with a storage device. The system comprises a random access memory magazine capable of comprising a plurality of random access memory devices. The magazine further comprising a magazine identifier label disposed to be externally viewable. The magazine also comprises at least one storage element cooperating with the magazine adapted to store an electronic magazine identifier that represents the magazine identifier label in non-volatile memory. Each of the random access memory devices can further comprise an individual random access memory device label. The storage device can be adapted to identify the magazine by the magazine identifier label, the electronic magazine identifier or both.
US08850076B2 Modular device component
A component of an electronic device comprises a network connection processor, which comprises a physical network connection block to receive data from and transmit data to a network and a first data processor configured to process data arriving at the network connection processor, and a second data processor configured to process data received from the network connection processor.
US08850074B2 Data synchronization method
The present invention provides a data synchronization method applied to a host and at least a client. First, the host transmits a request for synchronization operation to the client. The client replies at least a piece of connection information to the host. The host judges if the connection information contains operation flags. If not, the host transmits a request for data transmission to the client for driving the client to transmit the corresponding data of the connection information to the host. When the host completes receiving the data, the host stores an operation flag to the connection information and transmits it to the client for overwriting the connection information in the client.
US08850073B1 Data mirroring using batch boundaries
Provided are, among other things, systems, methods and techniques for controlling data synchronization. Local data-writing operations, made across a number of logical storage units on different data-storage devices, are divided into batches, the batches corresponding to different time segments. The data-writing operations, together with an indication of boundaries between the batches, are transmitted to a remote data-storage location. The boundaries between the batches are determined by at least one of: (1) identifying a period of time of sufficient duration during which no data-writing operations were performed and declaring a point during said period of time as one of the boundaries, (2) obtaining agreement from a plurality of entities, and (3) declaring the boundaries at pre-scheduled points in time.
US08850069B2 Systems and methods for dynamically adaptive multi-way message conversion
Multilateral, dynamic and coordinated message conversion between different messages composed using different protocols, e.g., Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) and Simple Object Access Protocol (SOAP) are described. For each message pattern or set of messages between coordinated peers, a conversion session is established. Incoming messages are correlated to their respective conversion sessions so that a common set of conversion rules can be used to convert messages within a particular session.
US08850062B2 Distributed connectivity verification protocol redundancy
In one embodiment, a connectivity verification protocol (CVP) session for a particular virtual interface (VI) may operate on a particular group of two or more line cards (LCs) on a network device. The group of LCs may then transmit CVP session packets, at a reduced rate that is sufficient to maintain the CVP session based on a negotiated CVP full rate, onto the particular VI through ingress path processing on the network device. Ingress path processing, in particular, takes transmitted CVP session packets and egresses them onto an appropriate LC of the network device currently responsible for the VI egress. Also, in response to receiving CVP session packets for the VI on an LC of the network device currently responsible for the VI ingress, the receiving LC may forward the received CVP session packets to the particular corresponding group of LCs, which may then process the received CVP session packets.
US08850060B1 Network interface within a designated virtual execution environment (VEE)
A system and method for managing network traffic provided to users includes a computer system and an operating system running on the computer system. A plurality of Virtual Execution Environments (VEEs) are executed on the computer system. Each VEE provides a set of services to remote users. A one or more designated VEE(s) provide network traffic handling services to other VEEs based on the needs of the remote users of the particular VEEs. The network traffic processing services are provided via a virtual network adapter(s) implemented within the designated VEE(s). The network traffic handling services are controlled and administered by each of the VEEs via control means of the designated VEE(s).
US08850059B2 Adaptive communication interface
Embodiments of the invention include a communication interface and protocol for allowing communication between devices, circuits, integrated circuits and similar electronic components having different communication capacities or clock domains. The interface supports communication between any components having any difference in capacity and over any distance. The interface utilizes request and acknowledge phases and signals and an initiator-target relationship between components that allow each side to throttle the communication rate to an accepted level for each component or achieve a desired bit error rate.
US08850056B2 Method and system for managing client-server affinity
In a computer communication network, affinity between a client and server is established dynamically. The client desiring affinity sends a request to establish affinity to an available server. The server can then respond by sending the client a redirect to an elected server, with which the client already has affinity. If there is no such elected server, the server establishes affinity between itself and the client.
US08850054B2 Hypertext transfer protocol live streaming
Illustrative embodiments disclose receiving a command to play a selected audio visual media on a client device. The client device determines portions of audio visual media from elected audio visual media and a sequence identifying each portion of the portions in a particular order for playing the portions. The portions and the sequence are determined according to a policy for playing each portion on the client device. The client device retrieves the portions to play in sequence and plays at least a partially retrieved first portion of the portions of the selected audio visual media on the client device. The first portion is identified based on the particular order in the sequence.
US08850053B2 System and method for providing information to users of a communication network
A plurality of multimedia data streams that are being provided via an internet protocol (IP) network is received, wherein each multimedia data stream carries multimedia content. Real-time metadata relating to the plurality of multimedia data streams is generated based on the multimedia content. The metadata is provided in real-time in a metadata stream to a plurality of user devices, via the IP network. The plurality of multimedia data streams may be multicast within the IP network. The metadata may be multicast in real-time in a metadata stream to a plurality of user devices, via the IP network.