| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08915371B2 |
Dual compartment dispenser
A dual compartment dispenser for pill or other item storage includes a larger outer compartment container and an auxiliary smaller pocket container configured to accommodate a predetermined daily dosage of items, which the user can carry in a clothing pocket, backpack or handbag, without having to carry the entire bottle container of items. The smaller auxiliary pocket container compartment nests on an interior collar ledge within the outer compartment container It is loosely supported by a ledge within the neck of a bottle neck container. The daily dose container gyrates and pivots upward when pushed against on one side of a top edge thereof, so that the daily dose container is up-ended and provides a portion extending upward above a top of the neck of the main housing container housing, for manual grasping without the need to invert the main housing container to release the smaller auxiliary pocket container therefrom. |
| US08915369B2 |
Jointed liquid crystal glass panel package box
The present invention provides a jointed liquid crystal glass panel package box, which includes a box body and a plurality of brackets mounted to the box body. The box body includes a frame and a hollow plate arranged inside the frame. The frame includes two opposite first frame members, two opposite second frame members, and four L-shaped connection members connecting between the first frame members and the second frame members. The first and second frame members are of a linear configuration. Each first frame member includes a plurality of first frame member units and a plurality of first couplers each connecting between two first frame member units. Each second frame member includes a plurality of second frame member units and a plurality of second couplers each connecting between two second frame member units. A plurality of water-resistant pads is arranged between the first couplers and the first frame member units. |
| US08915367B2 |
Loading container for transporting glass substrate
A zipper-type loading container for transporting glass substrates in which an increased number of glass substrates can be loaded for transport, thereby increasing the convenience of workers. The loading container for transporting glass substrates includes a loading frame having a loading surface, which supports the lower end of the glass substrates, and a backing surface, which supports the rear surface of a batch of the glass substrates. A cover frame is provided on the loading frame, and slides on the loading frame in forward and backward directions of the loading frame, and cover the upper end and the sides of the glass substrates. A zipper-type opening/closing sheet is provided on the front portion of the cover frame, and opens and closes the front portion of the cover frame. |
| US08915360B2 |
Case for holding portable digital devices
A case for holding a portable digital device is disclosed. The case includes a body comprising a first panel and a second panel which are fastened together. The first panel comprises a first pocket to hold the portable digital device, wherein the top cover of the first pocket is made using a transparent material, wherein the first panel flips open to enable a user to operate the portable digital device though the transparent or semi-transparent top cover. The second panel includes a flexible elongated segment to secure the case to an object on which the case is mounted. |
| US08915356B1 |
Key management system and organizer
Some embodiments of the present disclosure include a key management system and organizer for storing a plurality of keys. The key management system and organizer may include a first component and a second component, which together form a case. The first component may have a first clearance opening, a first magnet proximate to the first clearance opening, and a second magnet distal from the first clearance opening. The second component may have a second clearance opening, a first compatible magnet proximate to the second clearance opening, and a second compatible magnet distal from the second clearance opening. Each of the first component and the second component may have a pad adhered to an interior surface thereof. The first magnet and the second magnet may engage with the first compatible magnet and the second compatible magnet, creating a case having an interior configured to accommodate a plurality of keys. |
| US08915355B2 |
Flux applicator brush and flux container system
A system for applying a pipe joining agent, such as flux, primer or adhesive, to pipe structure surfaces. The system includes a male brush that cooperates with a female brush that is removably mounted on a container than contains the agent to be applied. The male brush can be inserted through the female brush and into the container to pick up the agent. As the male brush is withdrawn from the container, the female brush wipes excess agent from the male brush so that the female brush picks up agent thereon. The male brush can then be inserted into the end of a pipe structure to apply the agent to the interior surface of the pipe structure. Also, the female brush can be removed from the container and then inserted over the end of a pipe structure to apply the agent to the exterior surface of a pipe structure. |
| US08915354B1 |
Device for arranging and storing jewelry having organizing clasps
A foldable and collapsible jewelry storage device including a flexible substratum having a top portion and two opposing substantially planar surfaces, a plurality of pockets disposed on at least one of the surfaces, and an attachment clasp disposed adjacent to a top edge of at least one of the pockets. A hanger is attached to the top portion of the substratum to provide a point of attachment to a rigid body, such as a closet rod. Each of the pockets comprises a flexible translucent strip attached to the substratum along at least the lower edge and sides of the strip, leaving the top edge open, forming a storage pocket. The pockets are spaced apart and arranged in a matrix or grid. The attachment clasp provides enhanced organization for longer jewelry pieces and prevents kinking and tangling. The substratum may comprise two layers with a hanger disposed between the two. |
| US08915347B2 |
Attachment assembly for use with a self-propelled power unit
The invention relates to a self-propelled outdoor power equipment unit, an attachment for use with such a unit and associated methods. The unit may be in the form of a mower having a mower deck. The attachment includes a hopper and conveyor assembly for discharging particulate material from the hopper. The conveyor assembly has operational and stored positions, the latter of which provides a narrower profile of the attachment and unit. The attachment and mower deck may be mounted on the frame of the unit together or separately. The attachment is configured for rapid mounting and dismounting on the frame of the unit, and provides additional functionality to a mower or other unit on which the attachment is mounted. |
| US08915343B2 |
Method of controlling a dual clutch transmission
A method of controlling a hydraulic control system for a dual clutch transmission includes controlling a plurality of pressure and flow control devices in fluid communication with a plurality of clutch actuators and with a plurality of synchronizer actuators. The clutch actuators are operable to actuate a plurality of torque transmitting devices and the synchronizer actuators are operable to actuate a plurality of synchronizer assemblies. Selective activation of combinations of the pressure control solenoids and the flow control solenoids allows for a pressurized fluid to activate at least one of the clutch actuators and synchronizer actuators in order to shift the transmission into a desired gear ratio. |
| US08915342B2 |
Dual stage input lever transmission downshift system
A two stage clutch and shift actuation paddle assembly provides clutch disengagement through a first range of movement of a manually operated control lever or paddle and electronic shifting of a transmission upon movement through a second range. A return spring force generator causes a lower return force to be exerted on the generator paddle in a range of motion wherein the clutch is disengaged and a pronounced increased spring force to be exerted in advanced range of motion wherein the transmission shift actuation occurs. |
| US08915340B2 |
Actuator arrangement for active vibration isolation comprising an inertial reference mass
Actuator arrangement with an actuator (8), a reference mass (22), a spring (24) and a first sensor (26; 42, 43; 32, 36). The actuator (8) applies a force between a first object (2) relative to a second object (16; 54). The reference mass (22) is, in use, supported by a third object (16; 56) by means of the spring (24). The first sensor (26; 42, 43; 32, 36) generates a first distance signal that depends on a first distance (z2; z5,z6; z3,z4) between the reference mass (22) and the first object (2) and is provided to a controller (6) to actuate the actuator (8). |
| US08915335B2 |
Device for electrical braking of a drive shaft
The electrical braking device according to the present invention includes a braking element (2) which is formed, on the one hand, by electric jaws (7) and at least one sliding block (8) mounted in the proximity of the brake disk (3) in such a way that the latter passes at least partially through the electric jaws (7) and sliding block (8), and, on the other hand, by means (4) for fastening the electric jaws (7) and the sliding block (8) to the fixed frame (6) while providing the jaws and block with degrees of freedom obtained by the combination of different connections of the “flat plane contact” (FC), “point contact” (PC) and “annular linear contact” (AC) types, in order to compensate for the misalignments and defects in the shape of the brake disk (3) when the latter is driven in rotation. |
| US08915334B2 |
Controlling an elevator installation using a disadvantage parameter or a disablity indicator
A method of controlling a elevator installation with several elevator cages per elevator shaft, wherein a destination call to a desired destination story is actuated on a call input story by at least one passenger and at least one most favorable call allocation for transport of the passenger by the elevator cage from a start story to a destination story is determined for the destination call by at least one destination call control. If at least one disadvantage parameter is set, at least one disadvantage-free call allocation for transport of the passenger by the elevator cage from a start story to a destination story is determined by the destination call control, in which it is possible the start story and call input story or the destination story and desired destination correspond. |
| US08915330B2 |
Lubrication of positive displacement expanders
A method and system for lubricating a positive displacement machine operating as an expander of a compressed gas, comprising introducing into an expansion chamber of the machine a lubricant whose pour point temperature is greater than the operating temperature of the machine in the expansion chamber as determined by the expanding gas, which thus causes the lubricant to freeze-adhere to the internal surfaces of the expansion chamber, to become fluid under increased pressure at a point of contact of the working surfaces of the expander and then to refreeze when the surfaces separate. Considerable reduction in the quantity of lubricant is realized with the attendant advantage that dis-entrainment of lubricant from the gas exhausted from the machine is largely avoided. |
| US08915328B2 |
Construction machine
A construction machine including: a frame; an engine on a frame; a hydraulic pump; a guard panel disposed on the frame to surround an engine room and including a maintenance port for the hydraulic pump; an exhaust-gas-purification device inside the engine room; and a support member to support an exhaust-gas-aftertreatment device including the exhaust-gas-purification device just above the hydraulic pump. The support member includes a first portion to support the exhaust-gas-purification device and a second portion to support a NOx-reducing catalyst at a position closer to the maintenance port than the exhaust-gas-purification device. The catalyst supporting portion supports the NOx-reducing catalyst at a position higher than the exhaust-gas-purification device so as to form, over the hydraulic pump, a maintenance space having an upper end higher than an upper end of a space formed under the first portion and the exhaust-gas-purification device. |
| US08915327B2 |
System and method for operating a large single engine sweeper
A system and method for operating a large single engine sweeper includes a transfer case assembly inserted into the chassis drive train of the vehicle on which a package of sweeping equipment is mounted. In road mode operation, power from the chassis engine passes through a chassis automatic transmission, through a transfer case assembly to the differential and real wheel assembly. In sweep mode, power passes from a propel hydraulic motor into the transfer case assembly and then to the differential and real wheel assembly. |
| US08915326B2 |
Axle beam arrangement on a vehicle, in particular on a motor vehicle
An axle beam arrangement on a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, has two longitudinal beams and at least one cross beam connecting the two longitudinal beams. At least one of the beams has in an installation state of the vehicle a clearance between the beam stop region and a vehicle-side stop structure, in particular a body structure. The beam has in the beam stop region at least one stop and reinforcing element which reinforces the beam stop region and which is constructed and arranged so that it comes into supporting contact with the stop structure when the beam moves toward the stop structure. |
| US08915321B2 |
Device for removably attaching a battery of a motor vehicle
A device for the removable attachment of a battery of a motor vehicle includes a top portion including an attachment to a motor vehicle, a bottom portion including a connection with the battery, and a latch and a screw including a threaded portion so as to allow locking and unlocking, then the mutual tightening and loosening of the top portion and the bottom portion. |
| US08915315B2 |
Drill pipe and corresponding drill fitting
A drillpipe for a drill stem to drill a hole. The drill stem includes a drill string and a bottom hole assembly. The drillpipe includes a first end having a first inertia, a second end having a second inertia, a first intermediate zone adjacent to the first end, a second intermediate zone adjacent to the second end, and a central substantially tubular zone with an external diameter smaller than the maximum external diameter of at least the first or the second end. A casing is fixed on the pipe over a portion of the external surface thereof, at least one physical parameter sensor is disposed in the casing, and at least one data transmission/storage mechanism is connected to the sensor output, the casing being disposed at a distance from the first and second ends, the casing being integral with the central zone at a distance from the first and second intermediate zones and having a smaller inertia than the first and second inertias. |
| US08915311B2 |
Method and apparatus for drilling a zero-radius lateral
A jet drill coupled to a distal end of a flexible jet lance is lowered into a well casing and advanced through a curved passage formed in a deflection shoe oriented to direct the jet drill through an orifice milled in the well casing. The jet drill is actuated with a pressurized fluid produced by a pump on the surface that is conveyed through a high pressure hose that runs through the flexible jet lance. Force transmitted through a thrust liner of the jet lance advances the jet drill while the lateral bore is being drilled. The thrust liner comprises helical coils of steel wire providing a high elastic modulus and buckling resistance, even while passing through the curved passage. Tension cables in the jet lance maintain tension on the thrust liner and enable the assembly to be pulled from the lateral bore and well. |
| US08915310B2 |
Long lateral completion system and method
A completion system and method adapted for use in wells having long lateral boreholes includes a mast assembly, a pipe handling mechanism, a pipe arm, a pipe tub, a pump/pit combination skid, a rig carrier, and a control system. The control system can be used to automate operations of the completion system to facilitate rapid and safe make-up and breaking of tubular connections. |
| US08915307B2 |
Atomizing nozzle for a fire suppression system
A nozzle for a fire suppression system has a bonnet and a deflector base. An inlet port extends through the bonnet along the axis of symmetry of the bonnet. The inlet port receives an outlet end of a fire suppression delivery pipe to mount the bonnet to the pipe. The bonnet has a frustoconical surface which extends radially outward and downward from the inlet port. The deflector base is secured to and co-axially aligned with the bonnet at a predetermined distance to create a flow passageway therebetween. The flow passageway imparts a down angle to a suppressant flow discharging from the nozzle to better disperse the suppressant within the fire zone. A discharge port at the circumferential edge of the bonnet and deflector base constricts the suppressant flow to atomize the droplets of liquid suppressant discharged into the fire zone. |
| US08915306B2 |
Universal farrier's hoof and cradle support stand
The present invention is a combination of a hoof support stand and a cradle support stand that is to be used by a farrier. A hoof support and a cradle support are both attached to a multipurpose pivot mechanism. The multipurpose pivot mechanism is rotatably attached to an adjustable height stand. The rotatable capability allows a farrier to immediately switch between either the hoof support or the cradle support without needing to remove or attach additional components. The adjustable height stand is removably attached to a base support that is conical to provide optimal stability. A padded support is attached to the multipurpose pivot mechanism so that a horse's fetlock can comfortably and securely rest within the cradle support. The padded support is an improvement to slings used with conventional cradle support stands. |
| US08915305B2 |
Downhole packer tool with safety systems for preventing undue set and release operations
A packer tool has safety devices to prevent premature and reverse setting and release operations. The safety devices are independent of shear-pin safety systems. Confined annular segments prevent a setting actuator piston from moving absent tool-setting hydraulic pressure. The setting pressure first moves a cylinder in an opposite direction to unroof the segments allowing them to exit confinement and free the piston to set the packing and the anchor slips. Release safety pins extend radially inward from a packing-holder collar into short slots formed on a mandrel surface, preventing the mandrel from being turned. Previous set motion causes the pins to leave the slots thereby freeing the mandrel to turn only after the tool has been set. A third safety device comprises an expanded ring which is dragged by the release cone during release motion until it lodges in a circumferential groove in the mandrel, locking against reverse movement. |
| US08915304B2 |
Traversing a travel joint with a fluid line
A method of traversing a travel joint with a line can include, after the travel joint has been installed in a well, activating a connector which provides sealed fluid communication between sections of the line on respective opposite sides of the travel joint. A travel joint system for use with a subterranean well can include a travel joint comprising a releasing device which permits relative displacement between sections of the travel joint, and a connector which provides fluid communication between sections of a line. |
| US08915303B2 |
Method and apparatus for installing and removing an electric submersible pump
A method of servicing an electric submersible pump in a well with a positive wellhead pressure includes providing production tubing in the well casing, a coil tubing string within the production tubing having an electric submersible pump at a downhole end of the coil tubing string, and a pump-receiving housing above the injection port of the wellhead. With the injection port sealed and the pump-receiving housing opened, the electric submersible pump may be inserted or removed from the pump-receiving housing. With the pump-receiving housing closed and the injection port opened, the electric submersible pump may be moved to or from the production tubing in the well. |
| US08915301B1 |
Treatment of saline streams
This invention presents innovative methods to treat saline streams such as produced water, seawater, and the like. The invention can be used to: (1) de-NORM produced water; or (2) de-NORM and partially de-salt produced water; or (3) de-NORM and partially de-salt and de-ionize produced water; or (4) de-oil, de-NORM, de-salt and de-ionize produced water. The invention can also be used to de-sulfate seawater and the like in conjunction with desalting plants. |
| US08915299B2 |
Apparatus for use in top filling of tubulars and associated methods
Apparatus (100) for use in top filling of tubulars comprising an inlet (200) for fluid communication with a top drive for providing top filling fluid, and an outlet (300) for fluid communication with a tubular. The apparatus (100) comprises a filter configuration (120), in fluid communication with the inlet (200) and the outlet (300) and configured to remove debris from a top filling fluid flow flowing from the inlet (200) to the outlet (300) during top filling of a tubular. |
| US08915298B2 |
Slickline or wireline run hydraulic motor driven mill
A tool is run in with a bottom hole assembly that includes a seal and support within the tubing where a fish is to be milled. A ported sub allows pressurized fluid pumped from the surface to enter the bottom hole assembly above the sealed support location and to be directed to set an anchor and to a fluid driven motor such as a progressive cavity motor that is in turn connected milling tool at the rotor of the progressive cavity motor. The fluid exiting the stator goes through a debris removal device and can return to the surface through an annulus around the production tubing. A telescoping joint allows the mill to axially progress with a force applied to the fish generated by a tractor or a stack of Belleville washers. |
| US08915296B2 |
Apparatus and method for setting a tool in a borehole
Disclosed is an apparatus for setting an anchor in a borehole and milling a window in a side surface of the borehole in a single trip. The apparatus includes a mechanically-settable anchor initially forming part of the drill string, a plug member position below the anchor, and a milling assembly. When the drill string reaches a desired depth in the wellbore, the plug member may be activated from the surface, thus setting the plug member in position with respect to the wellbore. The anchor has an activation element which, when contacted in a predetermined manner, sets the anchor. The plug member has an operation element adapted so that, when the anchor and plug member come into contact with one another in a predetermined orientation, the activation element is operated by the operation element, thus setting the anchor. |
| US08915292B2 |
Exhaust gas heat exchanger and method of operating the same
An exhaust gas heat exchanger that includes a stack at least partially surrounded by a housing. The stack includes a first tube, a second tube, and a coolant duct between the first tube and the second tube. A fin is located within the coolant duct. The fin includes a first portion and a second portion and the first tube includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of the fin is fixed to the first portion of the first tube such that the first portion of the fin is coupled to the first portion of the first tube for movement with respect to the housing, and the second portion of the fin is supported in the housing for movement relative to the second portion of the first tube to permit movement of the second portion of the first tube with respect to the second portion of the fin. |
| US08915291B2 |
Plant for the continuous formation of grids for electric battery plates
Plant for forming grids for electric battery plates, which comprises a grid forming machine with continuous casting provided with a rotary drum, and a sliding block mounted fixed and slideably sealingly coupled with the external surface of the rotary drum and provided with means for distributing molten lead, in order to insert the molten lead within grooves provided on the external peripheral surface of the rotary drum during the rotation of the latter. The plant is also provided with an ultrasound generator placed to intercept a feed duct for the molten lead, connected to the distribution means and provided with at least one tip immersed in the pressurized flow of molten lead that moves through the aforesaid feed duct in order to transmit the waves produced by the ultrasound generator to the molten lead flow. |
| US08915289B2 |
Ceramic core with composite insert for casting airfoils
A multi-wall ceramic core for casting an airfoil with one or more internal cooling passages is made by preforming at least one fugitive core insert to have a joint-forming surface with a male and/or female joint feature and then forming at least one fugitive core insert in-situ adjacent and integrally connected and fused to the at least one preformed core insert at the joint-forming surface to form an interlocked, fused joint to form a composite core insert that includes features to form internal passage surfaces in the core when the composite core insert is removed. Another aspect involves preforming first and second fugitive core inserts to have respective joint-forming surfaces with respective snap-fittable joint features and assembling the first and second fugitive core inserts to form a composite core insert by snap fitting the snap-fittable joint features together to form an interlocked joint. The composite core insert is placed in a core molding die cavity, and a fluid ceramic material is introduced into the die cavity to form the ceramic core body incorporating the fugitive composite core insert therein. |
| US08915285B2 |
Bead seater apparatus and method for using the same
An apparatus for seating a bead of a tire adjacent a bead seat of a wheel is disclosed. |
| US08915281B2 |
System for manufacturing optical display unit and feed mechanism
Provided is a system for manufacturing an optical display unit and a feed mechanism, which can well prevent an optical film and a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer from being peeled from a release film. A pressure-sensitive adhesive type sheet material, wherein the optical film and the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer (film main body (F)) are cut without cutting a release film (F12, F22) which is laminated to the optical film with the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer in between, is fed along a feed path (12A, 22A). A press member (200) is arranged at a position opposed to a bent portion or a curved portion in the feed path (12A, 22A). Since the film main body (F) which is peeled from the release film (F12, F22) can be pressed to the release film (F12, F22) by the press member (200), the film main body (F) can be well prevented from being peeled from the release film (F12, F22). |
| US08915280B1 |
System and method for applying adhesive, buffer, and/or liner to I-joists
A system and method for automated application of adhesive, buffer, and/or liner to I-joists, whereby a controlled amount of adhesive, glue, buffer material, and/or a protective liner, are successively applied to the exposed flange of an I-joist. An air-activated side pressure wheel first pushes one flange of an I-joist against an opposing friction-reduced straight edge, then at least one adhesive/glue head extrudes adhesive and/or buffer material onto the opposing exposed flange of the I-joist. An overhead liner applicator may then place a protective liner upon the applied adhesive and/or buffer material. An applicator roller bearing and a pressure roller bearing press the adhesive/buffer/liner to the desired mil thickness, after which the liner applicator cuts the protective liner according to the cut pattern instructions received from a controller. A cooler can be used to cool the adhesive/buffer before release liner application. The system may comprise coordinated mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic components. |
| US08915277B2 |
Air maintenance tire and connector system
An air maintenance tire and connector system includes a tire carcass having an elongate integral air passageway contained within a flexible tire component of the tire carcass between an air inlet and an air outlet cavity and a connector assembly inserted within one or both of the cavities. A coupling post having an axial bore extends from the hollow body through a tire wall thickness to a tire central cavity. A remote end of the coupling post is operative for sequential alternative attachment to a punch device for penetrating in a pre-cure procedure through the tire wall thickness to the tire central cavity. |
| US08915274B2 |
Spindle for controlling wheel end endplay and preload
A spindle includes an inner bearing shoulder to seat an inner bearing and an outer bearing shoulder to seat an outer bearing. The inner and outer bearing shoulders are spaced apart by a controlled distance such that the outboard bearing is accurately positioned relative to the inboard bearing to control endplay and preload without requiring bearing adjustment. |
| US08915272B2 |
Noise reducing device, manufacturing method for the noise reducing device, and pneumatic tire having the noise reducing device
Provided are: a noise reduction device with an improved adhesion of a noise absorbing member formed of a porous material and with a reduced processing time; a method of manufacturing the noise reduction device; and a pneumatic tire including the noise reduction device. The noise reduction device of the present invention includes: a noise absorbing member formed of a porous material; a band member for attaching the noise absorbing member to the inner surface of a tire; and locking members formed of a thermoplastic resin. The band member is formed of a thermoplastic resin. The noise absorbing member is disposed between the band member and the locking members. The locking members are bonded to the band member through the noise absorbing member by thermal fusion. |
| US08915268B2 |
System and method for filling a portable liquefied gas storage/delivery system
A liquefied gas storage/delivery system and method that includes a liquefied gas storage system. The liquefied gas storage system includes a housing containing a storage vessel suited to contain a supply of liquefied gas, such as liquid oxygen (LOX). A rotatable turntable is provided on an exterior surface of the housing. An interface shaped to match the shape of at least a portion of a portable liquid storage/delivery device is provide in or on the turntable. A connector is disposed in the interface that couples to a corresponding connector on the portable liquid storage/delivery device. The two connectors are coupled by placing the portable liquid storage/delivery device in the interface and rotating the turntable. |
| US08915267B2 |
Device and method for filling syringes
A device and a method for filling syringes, which allows the filling of a syringe with exact dosage of different drugs, by using electronic guns or any other suitable device, without the necessity of using a needle and which may be disconnected from said electronic gun to connect a standard needle for the application of the fluid to a patient. |
| US08915265B2 |
Double walled tanks with internal containment chambers
A double-walled above-ground storage tank includes a primary tank and a secondary tank, and an interstitial space; an containment chamber formed by a primary chamber wall and a secondary chamber wall, forming a chamber interstitial space therebetween, and an exterior door assembly; and at least one pipe and valve assembly wherein the pipe originates in the tank interior volume and the valve is disposed within the chamber. |
| US08915262B2 |
Mass flow controller algorithm with adaptive valve start position
A mass flow controller (MFC), a method for calibrating an MFC, and a method for operating an MFC are disclosed. The MFC may include a valve that is adjustable between a closed position and an open position to control a flow rate of a fluid responsive to a control signal, a thermal mass flow sensor that provides an indication of the flow rate of the fluid, calibration data including data that relates the control signal to the flow rate of the fluid at a plurality of fluid flow rates, and a control system that provides, based upon the calibration data and run time data, an adjustable non-zero starting control signal to the valve when the valve is closed to more quickly respond to a set point signal. |
| US08915259B2 |
Fluid mixing and delivery in microfluidic systems
The specification generally discloses systems and methods for mixing and delivering fluids in microfluidic systems. The fluids can contain, in some embodiments reagents that can participate in one or more chemical or biological reactions. Some embodiments relate to systems and methods employing one or more vent valves to controllably flow and/or mix portions of fluid within the microfluidic system. Advantageously, fluid control such as a sequence of fluid flow and/or a change in flow rate, can be achieved by opening and closing one or more vent valves and by applying a single source of fluid flow (e.g., a vacuum) operated at a substantially constant pressure. This can simplify the operation and use of the device by an intended user. |
| US08915257B2 |
Water-carrying domestic appliance having a water-distribution mechanism
A water-carrying domestic appliance, especially a dishwasher or washer, which comprises a water diverter having at least one adjustable fluid distribution element, to which a fluid to be discharged through one or more fluid discharge lines can be supplied from a fluid supply line. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the fluid distribution element includes a plurality of passage openings respectively configured as funnel-shaped for sealing purposes such that a fluid pressure of the fluid flowing through a transition region between an outlet side of a respective passage opening and an inlet region into a respective fluid discharge line is lower than a pressure in a region surrounding the transition region. |
| US08915254B2 |
Method and system for vaporization of a substance
A smoking device for generating and releasing smoking vapor free from contamination into the mouth of a user comprising a mouthpiece for providing vapor for inhalation to a user including a tubular casing containing a heater for heating a smoking substance at a substantially constant low temperature by regulating the flow of fuel by a thermal regulator and further having means for visual indication of the operation of the device. |
| US08915253B2 |
Method and apparatus for treating gland dysfunction employing heated medium
A method and apparatus for treating gland dysfunction caused by gland obstruction in order to restore the natural flow of secretion from the gland comprises the application of a combination of energy, suction, vibration, heat, aspiration, chemical agents and pharmacological agents to loosen and thereafter remove the obstructive material. |
| US08915252B2 |
Implant systems and methods for treating obstructive sleep apnea
A system, method and kit for treating obstructive sleep apnea. The system includes a first implant adapted for implantation in an inframandibular region and having at least one aperture therethrough, and a ribbon-like element having first and second ends and a substantially uniform, non-circular cross section along its length. The ribbon-like element is adapted for implantation in a tongue with the first and second ends extending through the at least one aperture in the first implant for coupling the ribbon-like element with the first implant. |
| US08915239B2 |
Dual fuel heater with selector valve
A heater assembly can be used with a gas appliance. The gas appliance can be a dual fuel appliance for use with one of a first fuel type or a second fuel type different than the first. The heater assembly can include at least one pressure regulator, a housing, and an actuation member. The housing has a first fuel hook-up for connecting the first fuel type to the heater assembly, a second fuel hook-up for connecting the second fuel type to the heater assembly, and an internal valve. The actuation member can control the position of the internal valve based on whether the first or the second fuel hook-up is used. |
| US08915235B2 |
Mixing system for engine with exhaust gas recirculation
An air exhaust mixer assembly includes an upstream intake section with an upstream elbow and a downstream elbow. A mixing tube is configured to introduce exhaust gas into the upstream intake section at a location upstream of the downstream elbow. An internal combustion engine utilizing the air exhaust mixer assembly is also provided. |
| US08915231B2 |
Engine speed control system
An engine includes a carburetor, a governor assembly, and a vacuum actuator. The carburetor includes a throttle plate configured to control a fluid flow, a throttle lever coupled to the throttle plate, and an intake port in fluid communication with an engine vacuum pressure. The governor assembly includes a governor, a governor linkage coupled to the governor and the throttle lever, and a governor spring coupled to the throttle lever to bias the throttle plate towards the fully open position. The vacuum actuator includes an actuator housing, a pressure-sensitive member positioned in the actuator housing, an actuator linkage directly coupled to the governor spring and also coupled to the pressure-sensitive member for movement in response to the engine vacuum pressure, and an actuator spring coupled between a fixed attachment point and the actuator linkage to bias the actuator linkage to increase the tension on the governor spring. |
| US08915229B2 |
Engine
An engine includes a head cover covering an upper part of a cylinder head to accommodate a valve gear mechanism and an injector. The head cover is separatable into a lower cover body and an upper cover body detachable from and attachable to the lower cover body. The lower cover body includes a fuel pipe and a relay connector. Through the fuel pipe, fuel is supplied to the injector. The fuel pipe penetrates through the lower cover body. The relay connector is configured to relay power supply from outside the head cover. The relay connector is attached to the lower cover body. One end side of an injector harness disposed in the head cover is coupled to a terminal portion of the injector. Another end side of the injector harness is coupled to the relay connector. |
| US08915225B2 |
Rocker arm assembly and components therefor
A system for preloading a latch used in a variable valve actuation system for internal combustion engines is disclosed. It includes a rocker arm assembly having a first arm for operatively engaging the first cam for a first desired lift profile, and a second arm for operatively engaging the second cam for a second desired lift profile. A selectively-activatable latch to operatively latch the second arm with the first arm. An electronic control unit (ECU) communicates with an oil control valve that changes oil pressure to the latch to cause it to secure the arms together, or allow them to move independently. Due to the short time period required to operate the latch, the ECU provides a signal for the oil control valve to supply oil pressure or release oil pressure prior to the rocker arms being engaged with the base circle of the cams. This effectively preloads the latch causing it to react quickly and within the small time period allowed to latch. |
| US08915220B2 |
Variable valve actuation mechanism for overhead-cam engines with an oscillating/sliding follower
A finger follower apparatus to effect opening of an engine valve includes a first member with first and second opposite ends. The first member is pivotally fixed at the first end and operatively engaged with the engine valve at the second end. A second member is slidably engaged with the first member and carries a roller for engagement with a cam. |
| US08915214B2 |
Poultry feeder with level sensor
A feed level sensor for a poultry feeding system is positioned within the drop tube of a control feeder of the feeding system. The sensor comprise a first light emitter/light detector pair to detect when the level of feed in the drop tube falls below a predetermined “empty” level and a second light emitter/light detector pair to detect when feed in the drop tube is at a predetermined “full” level in the drop tube. The sensor emits a “start” signal to activate a drive to deliver feed to the feeders along a feed line when it is detected that feed in the control feeder drop tube falls below the “empty” level and emits a “stop” signal to deactivate the drive when it detects that feed within the drop tube is at the “full” level. |
| US08915213B2 |
Division mask and method of assembling mask frame assembly by using the same
In a division mask and a method of assembling a mask frame assembly by using the same, the division mask includes a stick body on which deposition patterns are formed, and a clamping portion which extends from the stick body outward along a longitudinal direction of the stick body, the clamping portion increasing in width from the stick body. By using this structure, since tight tension is exerted on the division mask during the assembly of a mask frame assembly due to an extension portion of the clamping portion, creases are prevented from being formed on the division mask, thus obtaining a precise mask frame assembly. |
| US08915206B1 |
T-step hull form for monohull planing vessels
A T-step hull form for monohull planing vessels includes a forward section, an aft section, a transom, a step, and a skeg. The step is transversely oriented and separates the forward section from the aft section, and the skeg extends longitudinally along the length of the hull form from the step rearwardly to the transom, dividing the aft section into a starboard tunnel portion and a port tunnel portion. The starboard and port tunnel portions are ventilated at their respective outboard sides, at the transom, or both. Vents may pass transversely through the skeg. Tunnel flaps may be disposed in each of the tunnel portions and are hingeably attached at the step to allow for adjustability of the step's geometry. The addition of the skeg, which extends from the step to the transom, provides additional longitudinal surface area for the hull form, and in turn increases lateral stability. |
| US08915200B2 |
Seeder with metering system having selectively powered metering sections
A metering system for a seeding machine is provided. The metering system includes selectively powered metering sections operable to individually allow or restrict seed dispensation. A damper arrangement is also provided so that pneumatic conveying of the particulate within the machine is consistently maintained when particulate flow is varied between the metering sections. |
| US08915197B2 |
Deck ledge table
A deck table is provided that includes a table section and a clamping mechanism that are attachable to a number of vertical posts in order to position the support surface on the posts in a horizontal position. The table section includes support surface and a bottom support that can be positioned against the posts and engaged by the clamping mechanism that extends between the posts. The clamping mechanism is rotatably attached to the table section and can be releasably engaged with the vertical posts to enable the table to be readily repositioned and/or removed from the posts, as desired, without disassembly of the component parts of the table. |
| US08915190B2 |
Launched smoke grenade
A launched smoke grenade has a body having a hollow interior that contains an active grenade material and a bullet trap element formed of an inert material, the body defining a muzzle receptacle bore that is adapted to receive a rifle muzzle, the active grenade material defining a cavity, and the bullet trap element having at least a forward portion received in the cavity. The active grenade material may include a smoke generation component and an ignition component. There may be a bullet suppressing material positioned between the rifle muzzle and the inert material. The bullet suppressing material and the inert material may be made of different materials. |
| US08915186B2 |
Method of and system for cleaning off ink in flexographic printing machine
It is an object is to improve the cleaning effect, to reduce the cleaning time, and to reduce the consumption of cleaning water during cleaning of an inside of an ink chamber of a flexographic printing machine. For cleaning an ink chamber 20, purge air “a” is supplied from pipes 46a-b to the ink chamber 20, and an ink “f” is collected from an ink supply pipe 26 and an ink recovery pipe 36 to an ink can 30. Subsequently, cleaning water “w” is supplied from the pipes 46a-b to the ink chamber 20, as well as defining a cleaning water circulatory passage 44 constructed from a three-way valve 24, an ink supply port 22, the ink chamber 20, excessive ink recovery ports 32, the ink recovery pipe 36, and a connecting pipe 40 for circulating cleaning water “w” through the circulatory passage 44 to clean inside the ink chamber 20. At the same time, compressed air “a” is supplied from a compressed air supply pipe 424 of an air gun 42 to generate bubbles in the cleaning water “w”, thereby improving the cleaning effect on the ink chamber 20 by the agitating action and the turbulent flow generating action of the bubbles. |
| US08915185B2 |
Assembly for axially aligning a print die
An assembly for axially aligning a print die, the assembly comprising an axle; at least a first expandable force ring receiving the axle; a roll having a circumferential outer surface and a hollow bore receiving the axle and the at least first expandable force ring; loading sleeves connected operatively to the axle for alternatively outwardly compressing the at least first expandable force ring against the roll's hollow bore, for resisting axial movement of the roll with respect to the axle, and for alternatively inwardly decompressing the at least first expandable force ring for permitting such axial movement; and print die mounting magnets fixedly attached to the roll's outer circumferential surface for attaching the print die to the roll. |
| US08915183B2 |
Screen printing screen
A screen printing screen, having: a screen printing stencil carrier which is configured as a film which is provided with first recesses which are configured in such a way that they reach from one upper side to the underside of the film, and a screen printing stencil which is configured as a nonmetallic masking layer which is connected fixedly to the underside of the screen printing stencil carrier, the masking layer being provided with second recesses which lie in congruence at least partially with the first recesses of the screen printing stencil carrier in such a way that a printing medium can pass through the first recesses of the screen printing stencil carrier from its upper side in the direction of the underside and through the second recesses of the masking layer to a substrate which can be placed underneath. |
| US08915180B2 |
Autonomously rotating cookware
An autonomously rotating cookware adapted to more evenly cook a food item within a cooking space presenting variable temperatures, includes a rotatable member and a thermally activated active material element, such as a shape memory alloy wire, drivenly coupled to the member, such that heat by-product during the cooking process causes the element to activate and activating the element causes the member to rotate, so that the food item is alternatively exposed to the variable temperatures. |
| US08915179B2 |
Muffin baker
A muffin maker comprises a support device, a main body and a collecting plate. A pedestal of the support device includes a first inserted portion. Two support arms of the support device include a rotary device. The main body is used for baking muffin and is connected to the rotary device. The collecting plate is mounted on the pedestal of the support device and includes a second inserted portion. The second inserted portion is connected with the first inserted portion and the normal line of the collecting plate is perpendicular to the normal line of the pedestal. |
| US08915176B2 |
Hydraulic blocking rotary actuator
In one embodiment, a hydraulic blocking rotary actuator including a stator housing having a through bore to position a rotor assembly. A rotor assembly includes an output shaft and at least one rotary piston disposed radially about the output shaft. The rotary piston includes an integral first vane element and an integral second vane element each with peripheral longitudinal faces substantially concentric to the other. A continuous seal groove is disposed in peripheral longitudinal faces and lateral end faces of the rotary pistons. A continuous seal is disposed in the continuous seal groove. The bore through the stator housing includes an interior cavity with surfaces adapted to receive the rotor assembly. With rotation fluid ports blocked the housing cavity is sealed with the continuous piston seal for hydraulic blocking, preventing actuator displacement by external forces. Other embodiments are disclosed. |
| US08915175B2 |
Pneumatic cylinder
A pneumatic cylinder includes a cylinder block, two piston rods, and two pairs of pistons. The cylinder block defines two receiving portions parallel to each other. Each receiving portion defines a first air chamber and a second air chamber; the second air chamber is in series with the first air chamber Each piston rod is partially received in one receiving portion. Each pair of pistons is sleeved on one piston rod, with two pistons received in the first air chamber and the second air chamber, respectively. |
| US08915174B1 |
Progessively ported gun barrel
The present invention is an improved barrel for a gun, wherein the gun barrel has an axis and a front face defined by a plane extending perpendicular to the axis. A plurality of ports is formed in the gun barrel. A first set of ports has a first spacing and a second set of ports is spaced apart from the first set of ports by a spacing distance greater than the first spacing. |
| US08915172B1 |
Magnetized fence with integral stock feeder for decked saws
The invention herein named “Magnetized Fence with Stock Feeder for Decked Saws” is in total manifestation a table saw fence or other saw fence magnetized for resistance to lifting, in combination with a stock feeder or powerful spring-loaded workpiece guide mounted directly on said fence. Thus the stock feeder, which advances workpieces over the cutting element of a saw, can be used without its mounting apparatus interfering with lateral travel of the fence.Said invention is comprised of a: 1) saw fence, which guides workpieces, 2) motorized feeder with mounting apparatus, or spring-loaded guide, and 3) mechanisms incorporated for switching the magnetic element. |
| US08915169B2 |
Adjustable driving tool
An adjustable driving tool includes a handle and a driving rod. The handle has a limiting portion disposed in the handle and a slot. The limiting portion has an inner space communicating with openings of a first sleeve portion and a second sleeve portion. The slot communicates with the inner space. The handle provided with a pin disposed through the inner space, and the first and second sleeve portions are disposed around the pin. The driving rod has a working end and a fixation end having an elongate through hole around the pin. The fixation end is disposed into the inner space through the slot. The driving rod is slidable relative to the pin, and the fixation end is controllably selectively inserted into the first sleeve portion or the second sleeve portion so that the driving rod is held. |
| US08915164B2 |
Tilt-type steering apparatus
A tilt-type steering apparatus includes a tilt lever, an expandable mechanism having a driving cam rotated by the tilt lever and a driven cam engaged with the driving cam, and a telescopic damper arranged to apply resistance against the rotation of the tilt lever in a direction allowing a position of a steering wheel to be adjusted. The telescopic damper is provided between a lever-side engaging portion which rotates together with the tilt lever and a cam-side engaging part of the driven cam. |
| US08915160B2 |
Group transmission device
In a group transmission arrangement, in particular a commercial vehicle group transmission arrangement, comprising a main group with a central synchronizing unit for synchronizing at least two main group shifting units for changing a main group transmission ratio, includes at least one auxiliary group with at least one auxiliary group shifting unit for changing an auxiliary group ratio, wherein a control unit is provided to actuate in a shifting operation the auxiliary group shifting unit and a central synchronizing unit in order to change an overall gear ratio, the control unit is adapted to actuate the auxiliary group shifting unit and the central synchronizing unit in parallel at least intermittently. |
| US08915156B2 |
Method for friction compensation in a device with force feedback provided with cable transmission
A method of compensating friction in a force-feedback device comprising a control member manipulated by a user and coupled to a tensioned cable that is actuated by a motor and gearbox unit. The method includes the steps of (1) detecting a variation in the sag of the cable caused by a manipulation of the control member, and (2) in response to such a detection, controlling the unit so that it develops a force (Fa) that compensates, at least in part, for the internal friction (Rsa) of the unit that opposes movement of the control member manipulated by the user. |
| US08915155B1 |
Method and device for monitoring integrity of wooden posts
A device (10) for monitoring the integrity of a wooden post (40) including an outer sleeve (11), a moveable pin (12), a spring (24) and a measuring rod (50). The outer sleeve (11) is adapted to be mounted in a pre-formed recess (41) of complementary size and shape extending from the outer surface (43) of a wooden post (40) substantially into the center (45) thereof. The moveable pin (12) is mounted within the outer sleeve (11) and has a head (18) arranged normally to bear against wood at the center (45) of the post (40). The spring (24) is arranged to urge the pin head (18) against wood at the center (45) of the post (40). The measuring rod (50) denotes any movement of the pin (12) further into the post (40). |
| US08915153B2 |
Double die sensor
One embodiment of the present invention relates to a device, such as a sensor device. The device includes a sensor die and a circuit die. The sensor die includes a sensor and a feedback component. The circuit die includes circuitry. The circuit die is varied from the sensor die, such as comprising a varied substrate material. The circuitry is coupled to the sensor and the feedback component. The circuitry and the feedback component can communicate correlation information. |
| US08915151B2 |
Active skin for conformable tactile interface
Disclosed is an active skin including: a tactile sensor substrate which includes a first film including a dielectric elastic material and formed with a plurality of sensing points, and a pair of first electrodes respectively formed on upper and lower sides of the sensing point; a tactile actuator substrate which includes a second film including a dielectric elastic material and formed with a plurality of actuating points, and a pair of second electrodes respectively formed on upper and lower sides of the actuating point; and an insulating layer which is interposed between the tactile sensor substrate and the tactile actuator substrate and couples the tactile sensor substrate and the tactile actuator substrate. With this, a tactile sensor and a tactile actuator are integrated, so that there is provided an interactive tactile interface to not only feel like a human's skin but also actively move like a muscle. |
| US08915149B1 |
Force measurement system
A dual force plate system having two independent measurement surfaces is disclosed herein. The dual force plate system includes a first plate component having a first measurement surface for receiving a first portion of a body of a subject, a second plate component having a second measurement surface for receiving a second portion of the body of the subject, a first force transducer element operatively coupled to the first plate component, a second force transducer element operatively coupled to the second plate component, and a third force transducer element operatively coupled to both the first plate component and the second plate component. A force plate system for computing a center of gravity of a subject is also disclosed herein. In addition, a method for determining the center of gravity for a subject disposed on a force measurement assembly is described herein. |
| US08915148B2 |
Motion conversion system
A motion conversion system is described. The motion conversion system comprises a first torsional member operative for rotating in a first direction. A second torsional member is offset a distance from the first torsional member, wherein the second torsional member is operative for rotating in a direction opposite from the first direction. And, a lateral member has a lower surface connected to the first and second torsional members. Wherein, translational movement of the lateral member results from rotational movement of the first and second torsional members. |
| US08915146B2 |
Magneto-inductive flow measuring device having a securement means to secure an electrode to the measuring tube
A magneto-inductive flow measuring device having a measuring transducer, which includes a measuring tube a magnet system for producing a magnetic field, and at least one electrode inserted into a bore of the measuring tube for registering an electrical voltage. A securement device is provided, which serves for securing the electrode on the measuring tube. The securement device is at least partially composed of plastic, and is connected with the measuring tube by a plastics welding technology. |
| US08915143B2 |
Combination ultrasensitive force transducer and grabbing device for force and strain measurement from single cells
The scientific characterization of cellular contractility and cell movement, such as muscle function in particular is, to a large extent, carried out on intact tissue preparations for example using whole intact muscles from animals. Typical indices of muscle function may include isometric force, contractility under external force (load) and spatio-temporal determination of internal calcium concentration under strictly controlled conditions of length and applied force. The major advance of the described apparatus is that the common characterization of cellular contractility can be performed on a single cell rather than an entire tissue or whole animal. As such the apparatus described improves on and eliminates known limitations of currently considered state-of-the-art approaches. |
| US08915141B2 |
Pressure sensor having a connection housing and a sensor housing
Pressure sensor unit for sealed attachment to a fluidic system comprising a mounting member, a membrane cavity extending through the mounting member with an opening in contact with the fluidic system when the sensor unit is attached thereto, a membrane formed at the distal end of the membrane cavity, and a membrane deflection sensor, wherein the membrane is separated from the mounting member by a stress insulating member arranged to isolate the membrane from stress and strain in the mounting member. |
| US08915140B2 |
Corrosion resistant isolator assembly for process devices
A process device has a process seal for coupling to an industrial process. The process device includes a process device body having an isolation cavity and an isolation passageway extending from the isolation cavity to a pressure sensor. The isolation cavity and isolation passageway filled with an isolation fluid. An isolation diaphragm is positioned to isolate the isolation cavity from process fluid. The isolation diaphragm has a process fluid side and an isolation fluid side. A weld ring is positioned around a periphery of the process fluid side of the isolation diaphragm. The weld ring is formed of a first material compatible with the isolation diaphragm and a second material compatible with the process device body. A weld secures the weld ring to the process device body. |
| US08915137B2 |
Yaw rate sensor, yaw rate sensor system, and method for operating a yaw rate sensor
A yaw rate sensor having a substrate which has a main plane of extension, and a Coriolis element is proposed. The Coriolis element is excitable to a vibration along a third direction which is perpendicular to the main plane of extension. A Coriolis deflection of the Coriolis element along a first direction which is parallel to the main plane of extension may be detected using a detection arrangement. The detection arrangement includes a Coriolis electrode which is connected to the Coriolis element, and a corresponding counterelectrode. Both the Coriolis electrode and the counterelectrode may be excited to a vibration along the third direction. |
| US08915135B2 |
Barometer
A barometer which is rotatable and a method of using a barometer which is rotatable is presented comprising a barometer tube retaining barometric fluid that is shorter than that required by non-rotatable barometers. The provision of a rotatable barometer allows the use of a barometric fluid of a density lower than that of mercury to be used, thereby enabling the use of mercury to be avoided. |
| US08915132B1 |
Visual warning device for weight bearing
An improved weigh bearing monitor determining weight or urge applied upon an impaired lower extremity when limited weight bearing is prescribed by a medical professional. The limited amount of weight borne on the affected limb visualized on gauge (3) attached to assistive walking device (4) with weight borne readable on gauge (3) located within visual range of the user or caregiver. The device consists of gauge (3) connected to assistive walking device (4) connected by hose or tube (2) to foot appendage component containing bladder (1) attached to user's (6) foot. When user (5) applies pressure upon bladder (1), then gauge (3) is in view of user (5) or caregiver monitoring weight applied to the affected limb. This device may also be wireless with elimination of the hose. This device may also be hydraulic or pneumatic in accordance with variation maintaining the visual ability of user or caregiver. |
| US08915128B2 |
Brake tools for inspecting a brake shoe, and related methods
A brake tool for inspecting a brake shoe having an anchor end and a cam end includes a first portion adapted to engage with an anchor aperture in the anchor end of the brake shoe, the first portion defining a first portion axis and having a length along the first portion axis sufficient to engage substantially an entire width of the anchor aperture; a second portion adapted to engage with a cam aperture in the cam end of the brake shoe, the second portion defining a second portion axis and having a length along the second portion axis sufficient to engage substantially an entire width of the cam aperture; and a connecting member connecting the first portion and the second portion with the first portion axis and the second portion axis substantially parallel to one another. |
| US08915126B2 |
Device for testing fuel injectors, and corresponding method
A device and a method for testing fuel injectors, in particular, of the piezo type. The device includes at least one, in particular, bidirectional interface for connecting an operator control unit, at least one outlet for connecting at least one fuel injector, at least one integrated circuit, as well as a microcontroller for controlling the integrated circuit, the integrated circuit and the microcontroller cooperating in a way that allows the fuel injector to be tested as a function of the type and/or subtype thereof, including at least the piezo type having the subtypes active high and active low. |
| US08915125B2 |
Cylinder internal-pressure sensor for engine
A cylinder internal-pressure sensor is provided with a housing unit 2 composed of an outer cylinder portion 2e and an inner cylinder portion 2i having elastic portions 2es and 2is having elasticity in an axial direction Fs formed on an intermediate portion Xm in the axial direction Fs; a pressure-receiving ring block portion 3 hermetically fixed between the outer cylinder portion 2e and the inner cylinder portion 2i located on the fronts of the elastic portions 2es and 2is and faced with the rear of the elastic portions 2e and 2i through the elastic portions 2e and 2i and having a front surface 3f as a pressure receiving surface; at least one or more pressure detection elements 5a, 5b, 5c, . . . in contact with one electrode portion 4 provided on a rear surface 3r of this pressure-receiving ring block portion 3, given the internal pressure Pc by the pressure-receiving ring block portion 3 and arranged at predetermined positions in a peripheral direction Ff; and a support ring block portion 6 fixed between the outer cylinder portion 2e and the inner cylinder portion 2i, having a front surface 6f as a support surface supporting the pressure detection elements 5a . . . and serving also as the other electrode 7. |
| US08915122B2 |
Sniffing leak detector
The invention relates to a sniffing leak detector comprising a sniffing line (11) and a feed line (33) that leads to a vacuum pump (16). A distribution point (24) from which a branch line (25) leads to a test gas sensor (15) is provided on the feed line (33). In order for the intermediate pressure (P2) at the distribution point (24) to be independent of feed fluctuations of the vacuum pump (16), a throttle (D2) comprising a supercritically operated orifice (20) is provided between the distribution point (24) and the vacuum pump (16). The pressure drop at the orifice (20) is greater than half the intermediate pressure (P2) at the distribution point (24). The flow at the orifice (20) is thus blocked, wherein the flow (Q) remains constant regardless of changes of the pump pressure (P3). Changes of the intermediate pressure (P2) are thus prevented so that the sensitivity and signal stability of the test gas sensor (15) is unaffected by changes of the pump pressure. |
| US08915105B2 |
Latch assembly
A compression latch is provided having a lock bolt operated via a codable cylinder lock. The lock bolt includes a guide having first and second inner surfaces. The lock includes a rotatable portion having a cam with a projection that is movable between the first and second inner surfaces. When the rotatable portion of the cylinder lock rotates via the key to cause the projection to move from a first position to a second position, the projection contacts the second inner surface and urges the lock bolt to engage a control member which prevents a handle of the compression latch from rotating. When the rotatable portion rotates via the key to cause the projection to move from the second position to the first position, the projection contacts the first inner surface and urges the lock bolt to disengage from the control member, which enables the handle to rotate. |
| US08915103B2 |
Washer/dryer with a light source inside a baffle for illuminating the drum
The present invention relates to a washer/dryer (1) comprising a drum (2) wherein the laundry is placed and at least one drum baffle (3) extending in the radial direction towards the center of the drum (2) for tumbling the laundry and wherein the interior of the drum (2) is illuminated effectively. |
| US08915094B2 |
Refrigerator and operating method thereof
A bypass device of a refrigerator connected to an inrush current preventing device bypasses an input power when the input power is applied to the refrigerator, and a controller controls the input power input through the inrush current preventing device in response to a voltage measured by a voltage measuring device, recovers a function of the inrush current preventing device, and drives a compressor. Therefore, a standby time to re-drive the refrigerator is decreased and convenience is enhanced. |
| US08915091B2 |
Thermoelectric-based thermal management system
Disclosed is a heating, ventilation and air conditioning system for a vehicle that operates in a heating mode, a cooling mode or a demisting mode. In some embodiments, the system includes a first circuit having first pump for circulating a first medium therein, a second circuit having a second pump for circulating a second medium therein and a thermoelectric module having a first surface in thermal contact with the first medium and a second surface in thermal contact with the second medium. |
| US08915088B2 |
Fuel control method for starting a gas turbine engine
A method for controlling a flow of fuel to a starting gas turbine engine includes controlling the flow of fuel to the engine by controlling fuel pressure to the engine, and modulating the flow of fuel to the engine if engine exhaust gas temperature approaches a given exhaust gas temperature to lower the engine exhaust gas temperature below the given exhaust gas temperature. |
| US08915087B2 |
Methods and systems for transferring heat from a transition nozzle
Methods and systems are provided for transferring heat from a transition nozzle. The transition nozzle includes a transition portion, a nozzle portion integrally formed with the transition portion, and at least one surface feature configured to transfer heat away from the transition portion and/or the nozzle portion. The transition portion is oriented to channel the combustion gases towards the nozzle portion. |
| US08915079B2 |
Brake actuator unit
A brake actuator unit capable of improving the pedal feeling. The brake actuator unit includes a housing, a master cylinder connected to one end of the housing and provided therein with first and second pistons arranged in parallel to each other, an operating fluid reservoir coupled to an upper portion of the master cylinder to store operating fluid, a simulator accommodated in the master cylinder to provide repulsive force to a pedal, an input shaft moving back and forth according to an operation of the pedal, a control plunger slidably moving back and forth together with the input shaft, first and second output shafts positioned corresponding to first and second pistons to move back and forth together with the control plunger, and a pedal displacement sensor connected to the input shaft. |
| US08915074B2 |
System and method for determining accumulator fill
A method for determining whether an accumulator is filled to a predetermined level with a hydraulic fluid includes commanding a current to a solenoid, providing pressurized hydraulic fluid to the accumulator, setting a timer to an initial value, incrementing the timer, determining if the timer is greater than a timer threshold value, measuring a current to the solenoid if the timer is greater than the timer threshold value, calculating a modified current as a function of the measured current, the timer value, and the commanded current, comparing the modified current to a threshold, and determining that the accumulator is filled to the predetermined level if the modified current is greater than the threshold. |
| US08915071B2 |
Exhaust gas purifying device
Provided is an exhaust gas purifying device which can improve handling work ability such as maintenance of an engine while it can improve a purifying performance of an exhaust gas of the engine. The exhaust gas purifying device is provided with a plurality of gas purifying bodies which purifies the exhaust gas discharged by the engine, a plurality of inside cases which are inward provided with the gas purifying bodies, and outside which are inward provided with the inside cases. An outlet end portion of an inside case in an exhaust gas upstream side and an inlet end portion of an in an exhaust gas downstream side are superposed as a double structure. Sensor boss bodies for supporting exhaust gas sensors are arranged in an outside surface of the outlet end portion or the inlet end portion of the double structure. The sensor boss bodies are extended to an outside direction of the outside case. |
| US08915069B2 |
Arrangement for introducing a liquid medium into exhaust gases from a combustion engine
Arrangement for introducing a liquid medium into exhaust gases from a combustion engine: an exhaust gas line (2), an injection chamber (3) bounded in radial directions by a tubular wall (8), an injector (13) injects the liquid medium into the injection chamber; a mixing duct (14) to which the injection chamber has an outlet (10) for delivering exhaust gases; a bypass duct (15) which has an outlet (17) via which it is connected to the mixing duct, and an endwall (7) at the injection chamber's downstream end and demarcating the chamber from the mixing duct, such that the chamber's outlet is situated at the periphery of the endwall. The outlet of the bypass duct is close to the outlet of the injection chamber so that the exhaust gases which flow into the mixing duct via the chamber's outlet will collide with the exhaust gases which flow into the mixing duct via the outlet of the bypass duct. |
| US08915068B2 |
Device for reducing pollutants in the exhaust gas flow of an internal combustion engine
A device (40) for reducing pollutants, in particular nitrogen oxides, in an exhaust gas flow of an internal combustion engine, includes a reducing agent (46), in particular a urea-water solution, which is stored in a storage tank (42), a metering module, in particular a nozzle (68), for injecting the reducing agent (46) into the exhaust gas flow, and a pump (56, 100) for delivering the reducing agent (46) from a suction point (62) in the storage tank (42) to the metering module via lines (58, 66). A pump (56, 100) lies beneath a reducing agent level (44) in the storage tank (42), and a non-return valve is provided. |
| US08915065B2 |
Particulate filter regeneration
In one example, a method of operating an engine having a diesel particulate filter in a vehicle, the particulate filter having a length and depth, includes performing particulate filter regeneration in response to temperature variation across the length and/or depth of the particulate filter. |
| US08915063B2 |
Method and device for estimating NOx emissions in combustion engines
The present invention provides for a system for controlling NOx emissions based on the calculation of an error given by the difference between a first measured value obtained from a NOx sensor (7) and a second one estimated from a NOx estimation. Said sensor (7) can be used in an adaptation loop, where an open-loop or closed-loop EGR control system is adapted such that the expected NOx emissions (from the EGR controller) match the ones measured with the NOx sensor under steady-state conditions. |
| US08915062B2 |
Method and apparatus for monitoring a reductant injection system in an exhaust aftertreatment system
An internal combustion engine operating at a lean air/fuel ratio includes a reductant injection system configured to dispense reductant into an exhaust gas feedstream upstream of a selective catalytic reduction device. The reductant injection system includes a reductant delivery system fluidly coupled to a reductant dispensing device that is configured to dispense the reductant. A method for monitoring the reductant injection system includes commanding the reductant dispensing device to dispense reductant at a prescribed reductant flowrate, controlling the reductant delivery system to a preferred operating state, monitoring operation of the reductant delivery system and estimating a reductant flowrate as a function of the monitored operation of the reductant delivery system, and diagnosing operation of the reductant injection system as a function of the prescribed reductant flowrate and the estimated reductant flowrate. |
| US08915060B2 |
Method of varying a fan duct throat area
A method of varying a fan duct throat area of a gas turbine engine may include non-pivotably moving a fan nozzle outwardly relative to a longitudinal axis of the gas turbine engine during axially aft translation of the fan nozzle without activating a thrust reverser. |
| US08915051B1 |
Method of loading a multi-dose blister card using a transfer fixture
A method of transferring a plurality of tablets of a product from a first blister card including a first plurality of blisters to a second blister card including a second plurality of blisters includes discharging the plurality of tablets from the first plurality of blisters of the first blister card. Then, each of the plurality of tablets are guided along one of a plurality of passageways defined by a transfer fixture positioned between the first blister card and the second blister card. Finally, the plurality of tablets are received in the second plurality of blisters of the second blister card. |
| US08915048B1 |
Optionally attachable, permanently fixed two piece cap and container apparatus
A pharmaceutical storing and dispensing device including a child resistant mode and a non-child resistant mode between the container and the closure. The closure comprises a non-child resistant cap shaped to removeably engage the container and a child-resistant cap shaped to be permanently fixed to the non-resistant cap. The non-child resistant cap and child resistant cap are provided in intentionally varying quantities such that the quantity of child resistant caps is less than the quantity of non-child resistant caps. |
| US08915047B2 |
Beverage bottle closing machine being configured and disposed to close tops of filled beverage bottles with screw-type and other caps
A beverage bottle closing machine being configured and disposed to close tops of filled beverage bottles with screw-type and other caps. |
| US08915044B2 |
Wall board clip and mount apparatus
A mounting clip for use in the construction industry. This device will be used to effectively and efficiently establish a gap under the bottom edge of a building wall board, such as sheet rock or gypsum boards. Hanging of building panels on wall assemblies in building construction projects is very common. The present invention is a gapping device which fits onto the bottom edge of sheet rock wall board like a shoe. The clip holds the sheet rock in position raised off of the floor while the sheet rock hanger permanently affixes the panel to the panel support area, typically a stud wall. The clip prevents moisture from wicking from the floor into the wall board material The clip is designed to become a permanent fixture in the final wall construction. |
| US08915042B2 |
Steel frame structure using U-shaped composite beam
A steel frame structure includes brackets connected to columns to allow the columns to be connected to a girder. Each bracket includes a U-shaped plate having a bottom plate, side plates extended upwardly perpendicularly from both ends of the bottom plate, and base plates extended outwardly from the side plates, a vertical plate welded perpendicularly to the center of the bottom plate of the U-shaped plate in such a manner as to be parallel to the side plates, and a horizontal plate welded to the top end of the vertical plate in such a manner as to be parallel to the bottom plate of the U-shaped plate. The girder has a generally U-shaped section. |
| US08915039B1 |
Solid-wood rigid block assemblies
In some embodiments, a durable solid-wood door or other rigid block assembly includes two generally-planar, mutually-parallel solid-wood boards each having a plurality of mutually-parallel dovetail-connection channels running generally along an internal surface of each of the boards, and a solid-wood central keying structure disposed between the two solid-wood boards. The central keying structure includes a plurality of two-sided sliding dovetails keys sized to slide within the dovetail-connection channels to secure the two-mutually-parallel solid-wood boards to each other via sliding dovetail connections to the central keying structure. Alternating wood grain orientations may be used to reduce warping. Each board may include multiple laterally-adjacent monolithic slabs interconnected via tongue-and-groove edge connections, with the dovetail connection channels extending across multiple slabs. An adhesive and/or fasteners secure the two boards in a fixed position relative to each other, creating a solid block structure. |
| US08915028B2 |
Stilt for elevating storage means in a roof space
A roof stilt for elevating flooring in a roof space comprising: a joist receptacle; a platform for affixing flooring to the stilt; and a support column extending between the joist receptacle and the platform for supporting the weight of elevated flooring. |
| US08915026B2 |
Wildlife barrier apparatus and system
A barrier for blocking access to an enclosed space so that wildlife cannot enter the space for either nesting or other habitation is disclosed. Plural resilient spikes extend outwardly in an array from a base. When the apparatus is inserted into a space, the spikes bend so that the tips engage the walls of the space to lodge the barrier in place and resist extraction. The spikes discourage wildlife from entering and nesting in the space. |
| US08915025B2 |
Cut and rigidified construction component and method of manufacturing the same
A method of creating a bend in a construction component for use in a transportation vehicle. The method comprises providing a plurality of cuts in the construction component so as to create a region of increased flexibility in the construction component. The method further comprises bending the construction component in the region of increased flexibility so as to cause the construction component to acquire a bent shape, and then rigidifying the construction component in the region of increased flexibility so as to cause said construction component to maintain the acquired bent shape. |
| US08915023B2 |
Safety hatch system
In one embodiment, an electronically controlled hatch system for safe ingress, egress, hazard detection, and methods thereof are provided to reduce or eliminate hazards to personnel, including protection of people above and below a scuttle hatch, access port, skylight or elevated deck. Said hatch system reduces the risk of falls while ascending or descending a ladder through an access port. In certain embodiments, severe weather, hazard, security, and other safety information are detected and transmitted to a central control unit for processing and regulating the opening and closing of a hatch covering the access port and/or raising and lowering a safety railing system based on said information and/or user input. Said hatch system may include an actuator and guides for automatically locking/unlocking and opening/closing a hatch, an actuator and guides for automatically raising/lowering a railing system, safety monitoring detectors/apparatuses, and a centralized controller. |
| US08915022B2 |
System and method for management of a roof
A system for management of a roof having first and second decks covering an unconditioned space in a building and a peak, the system having a first channel extending from proximate a lower end of the first deck towards the peak and a second channel extending from proximate a lower end of the second deck towards the peak. The system further includes a router positioned proximate the peak, the router enabling air flowing to the peak from the first channel to be selectively routed to one of a plurality of directions. |
| US08915019B2 |
Sliding door stopper system
A sliding door assembly for use with a tub or shower enclosure, said assembly comprising a rod, having a first end and a second end extending along said enclosure; at least one door, having a top, bottom, first end, second end, first surface and second surface; at least one roller attached to said door at a predetermined position and slidably engaging said rod; a stopper attached to said rod, at a predetermined position; a striker attached to said door, at a predetermined position; said striker further comprising at least one striking member; said stopper further comprising at least one striking member receiver; wherein when said door is in a first position, said at least one striking member and said at least one striking member receiver are not engaged and when said door is in a second position, said at least one striking member and said at least one striking member receiver are engaged, preventing said at least one door from substantial horizontal and vertical movement along said rod. |
| US08915018B2 |
Slider window assembly
A vehicular slider window assembly (10) includes upper and lower rails (22, 24), at least one fixed window panel (16, 18) and a movable window panel (20). The lower rail comprises a channel (26) and a guide element (28) received in and secured to the channel. The guide element extends at least partially along the fixed window panel and the opening and the channel extends at least partially along the fixed window panel and beyond an end of the guide element and receives a carrier (30) of the movable window therein during loading of the movable window. The movable window is received in the channel at a first depth during the loading process and is raised to a second depth to generally align the carrier with the guide portion (28a) of the guide element for insertion of the carrier into the guide portion for movement along the guide portion. |
| US08915015B1 |
Solar greenhouse
A solar greenhouse which may be modular, free-standing or erected against an adjacent structure such as the wall of a building, having s a frame including structural members such as extruded aluminum channels which support a glazing system of transparent or translucent panels. The transparent or translucent panels preferably are opaque to the transmission of infra red light rejected from the solar collector louvers and the interior of the solar greenhouse. Positioned within the solar greenhouse enclosure below the glazed roof or top are a plurality of rotatable solar collector louvers which may be individually positioned or preferably are rotated in unison by a drive system which may be manually controlled or controlled by a software program in a computer or microchip. The louvers are effectively flat plate solar collectors. Water is circulated through the tubular axle of the louvers and is heated by solar radiation when the louvers are in their solar collection positions. The louvers may be adjusted to various positions. |
| US08915014B1 |
Finger mounted insect dissuasion device and method of use
An insect dissuasion device that incorporates a miniature fly swatter adapted to be fixed onto an end of a human finger. An insect can be discouraged by simply flexing, slowly encroaching upon and then “flicking” the finger with the attached device to strike the insect. Devices of the present invention are designed to be removably attached to a finger by a ring-like structure. The ring-like structure is tailored to slip onto and engage a finger in various positions and remain attached to the finger when the finger is flicked. Joined to the ring-like structure is an extension shaft that terminates in an insect engagement head. The length and/or cross-sectional profile of the extension shaft can be altered as well as the shape of the head portion or ring-like structure. |
| US08915011B1 |
Mechanical fish hook assembly
A mechanical hook assembly for catching fish. The hook assembly comprises a hook having an elongated shank, bend, and point. A spring-biased trigger resides adjacent the hook and comprises an elongated distal point guard, an intermediate latch, a proximal spring shaft, and spring. The spring normally urges the hook assembly into an open spread condition, such that the spring shaft of the trigger extends outwardly at an angle to the shank of the hook and in a direction opposite the bend. A catch is located beside the shank of the hook. |
| US08915008B2 |
Fused optic
An optical sight is provided and may include an optics train having at least one prism with a first surface, a display associated with the first surface to selectively supply the first surface with an image, and a processor in communication with the display to provide the display with the image. An infrared camera may be in communication with the processor and may provide the processor with thermal-energy data for use by the processor in generating the image. |
| US08915007B1 |
Cartridge magazine loader
A magazine loader has an elongated bar shape with a top wall and four subtending side walls with a recessed portion in the top wall relative to the plane of the top wall. The recessed portion has an open top cartridge channel in a first portion with two opposed horizontal flanges that extend the length of two side walls, and an open top magazine cavity in a second portion with a bottom wall, three upstanding side walls, and a follower projecting member. The follower projecting member is positioned to fit between opposed retaining clips of a magazine to partially depress a follower. The cartridge channel at a first end has an inclined portion sloped from the top wall to a bottom wall. A strip of sticky tape material attached to a row of cartridges may be used to pull the cartridges through the cartridge channel and into the magazine. |
| US08915005B2 |
Foldable stock assembly
A folding stock assembly for a firearm includes a butt stock portion; a receiver interface portion; and a bidirectional hinge assembly configured to allow the butt stock portion to bidirectionally pivot with respect to the receiver interface portion. |
| US08915002B2 |
Self illuminated signage for printed graphics
Self illuminated back and front lit signage for a printed graphic. The signage includes a turning film having a structured surface for redirecting light, a diffuser providing for diffusion, and a printed graphic. The turning film receives light from an ambient light source and directs the light via the structured surface toward a viewer of the graphic in order to passively illuminate the signage. |
| US08915000B2 |
Greeting cards with optical fibers
The greeting card of the present invention includes a three-panel pocket with an internal cavity which contains a fiber optic bundle, various electronic components, fabric layer and a removable panel. A front face of the three-panel pocket contains a substantial opening thereon through which the fabric layer is visible. The fiber optic bundle contains various fiber optic strands. Each of the fiber optic strands is inserted through the fabric layer and is visible through the front face of the greeting card. A contact arm switch controls illumination of the fiber optic strands along with the insertion and removal of the removable panel. |
| US08914998B2 |
Sole assembly for article of footwear with interlocking members
An article of footwear includes a sole assembly with a rib that is resiliently flexible, and the rib has a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis. The transverse axis extends at an acute angle relative to the ground surface, and the rib includes a first longitudinal end, a second longitudinal end, and a middle portion disposed between the first and second longitudinal ends. A height of the first and/or second longitudinal end is greater than that of the middle portion. The rib is operable to axially support a first force applied substantially along the acute angle relative to the ground surface, and the rib transverse axis remains substantially straight in response to the first force. The rib resiliently bends about the rib longitudinal axis in response to a second force applied substantially normal to the ground surface to make the rib transverse axis non-linear. |
| US08914996B2 |
Antistatic insole
An antistatic insole is disclosed, which consists of one cover layer, one first layer body, one second layer body, one arch pad, and one heel pad. The insole is assembled with a cover layer on the surface of the first layer body and the second layer body below the first layer body and the heel pad and the arch pad are below the second layer body. The elasticity of the heel pad is more elastic and the arch pad less elastic than the first layer body. The contour of the surface of the first layer body follows that of the foot arch of a human body and acts coherently with that of the second layer body. The cover layer, the first layer body, and the second layer body are antistatic. The arch pad is equipped with antistatic and anti-fatigue functions according to various arch shapes of a human foot. |
| US08914994B2 |
Guitar-shaped bladder for footwear
An article of footwear includes an upper for securing the article of footwear to a wearer. The footwear also includes a sole assembly operatively coupled to the upper. The sole assembly includes a bladder that contains a fluid. The bladder has a posterior portion, an anterior portion, and a middle portion disposed between the posterior and anterior portions. The posterior portion has a heel recess that is approximately coincidental with a center of a heel of the wearer. The middle portion includes a neck chamber that extends between the posterior and anterior portions. The neck chamber is elongate and has a width that is less than both the posterior and anterior portions, and the anterior portion has a plurality of toe recesses that extend generally away from the neck chamber. |
| US08914992B1 |
Shoe sole with decorative insert
Provided are, among other things, systems, methods and techniques for manufacturing a shoe sole, in which a shoe sole is preliminarily assembled by bonding together a plurality of layers with a temporary insert disposed between two adjacent layers. Then, an outer edge of the shoe sole is ground and, following that, the temporary insert is removed and a permanent insert is bonded in place of the temporary insert, such that the permanent insert forms a portion of a side wall of the shoe sole. |
| US08914983B2 |
Measuring and testing device having segmented threads and thread segments adjustable with respect to each other
The invention relates to a measuring and/or testing device (1) comprising a segmented thread (2) having thread segments (3 to 6). A first thread segment (3) and a second thread segment (4) of the segmented thread (2) are adjustable with respect to each other. |
| US08914978B2 |
Application roller and manufacturing method of application roller
A manufacturing method of an application roller that applies a coating solution onto a surface of a substrate, wherein the application roller includes a roller body that includes a large diameter portion and small diameter portions coaxially extended from both ends of the large diameter portion, the manufacturing method includes: overlaying a resin layer on at least an outer periphery of each of the small diameter portions; forming a masking portion on the outer periphery of each of the small diameter portions by processing an outer periphery of the resin layer; and forming an application groove portion on an outer periphery of the large diameter portion. |
| US08914976B2 |
Turbine airfoil to shroud attachment method
Bi-casting a platform (50) onto an end portion (42) of a turbine airfoil (31) after forming a coating of a fugitive material (56) on the end portion. After bi-casting the platform, the coating is dissolved and removed to relieve differential thermal shrinkage stress between the airfoil and platform. The thickness of the coating is varied around the end portion in proportion to varying amounts of local differential process shrinkage. The coating may be sprayed (76A, 76B) onto the end portion in opposite directions parallel to a chord line (41) of the airfoil or parallel to a mid-platform length (80) of the platform to form respective layers tapering in thickness from the leading (32) and trailing (34) edges along the suction side (36) of the airfoil. |
| US08914975B2 |
Method for repairing a guide blade segment for a jet engine
A method for repairing a guide blade segment fashioned as a twin guide blade segment within a guide blade composite element, the guide blades being formed from a nose segment and a rear edge segment, the method having identification, within a guide blade segment, of a non-repairable guide blade to be separated from the guide blade composite structure; separation of a non-repairable guide blade from a one repairable guide blade in a first plane of division; division of at least one separated guide blade in a second plane of division between the nose segment and the rear edge segment; reconditioning of the at least one repairable nose segment and/or rear edge segment; joining of a reconditioned and/or new nose segment to a reconditioned and/or new rear edge segment to form at least one guide blade; and joining of at least two guide blades to form a guide blade segment. |
| US08914974B2 |
Method for integrating an electronic component into a printed circuit board
The invention relates to a method for integrating an electronic component into a printed circuit board, whereby the electronic component (4) comprising contacts (6) oriented towards an insulating layer (1) which is fixed to a laminate consisting of a conductive layer (2) and a insulating layer (1). Once the component (4) has been fixed to the insulating layer (1), at least one hole or perforation (8, 11) corresponding to the contacts (6) of the component (4) are formed in the conducting layer (2) and in the insulating layer (1), the contacts come into contact with the conducting layer (2), enabling a reliable integration or embedding of an electronic component (4) into a printed circuit board. |
| US08914973B2 |
Engine cylinder sleeve heater and method
A method for installing a heated piston into a cylinder sleeve that is initially smaller than the piston includes: receiving the engine block at a heating station, heating the engine cylinder sleeve with heated air for a predetermined time at a predetermined temperature such that a temperature of the cylinder sleeve is equal to or greater than a temperature of the piston, and inserting the piston into the heated cylinder sleeve. |
| US08914966B2 |
Die for molding honeycomb structure, and its production method
A die having large numbers of grooves for molding a material to a honeycomb structure, wherein a surface having the grooves has an outer periphery in a polygonal shape having 6 or more corners, and wherein the grooves are crossing the outer periphery at an angle of 30° or more. |
| US08914965B2 |
Processing method for brake rotor-equiped wheel bearing devices
An outer member and an inner member constituting a wheel bearing device are assembled and the brake rotor is fixed to the hub ring of the inner member. In this state, the pad slide surfaces of the brake rotor are lathed with the reference provided by a wheel pilot end surface. Alternatively, the wheel pilot end surface of the hub ring by chucking the knuckle pilot of the outer member with the wheel bearing device put in its assembled state, and the pad slide surfaces of the brake rotor are lathed with the reference provided by the wheel pilot end surface. |
| US08914964B2 |
Hemming working method and working apparatus
A moving die is held by a robot and made to approach a vehicle, and a positioning pin is inserted into a positioning hole of the vehicle. The moving die is brought into a floating state of being displaceable relative to the vehicle by reducing a force of the robot for maintaining an attitude thereof. In a state of holding the moving die by the robot, a surface of the moving die is brought into contact with the vehicle by an adsorbing mechanism including an adsorbing portion of an elastic member provided to the moving die. The moving die and the robot are cut to be separated. |
| US08914962B1 |
Buoy split key removal device
A buoy split key (“BSD”) removal apparatus, system, and method are disclosed. The BSD utilizes a power screw to apply a steady and controllable compressive load onto the split key. The BSD applies a compressive force or load to the bitter ends of the split key in order to maximize the use of the moment on the split key. The spread and/or twisted split key is compressed by a compression assembly and compression power screw as supported by a compression frame. The compression assembly provides steady and controllable compression on a buoy split key. A compression power screw and extrusion power screw should be threaded in the opposite direction for maximum torque to remove the buoy split key. Once the split key is fully compressed by the compression assembly, the compressive load from the power screw and split key are then removed. |
| US08914960B2 |
Tooth brush head removal device
A device (10) for removing the tooth brush head from the body of an electrical tooth brush is described. Device (10) includes a tooth brush head engaging member (12), a seat member (14) for seating against a body of an electrical-tooth brush and a screw-threaded member (16) positioned operatively between the tooth brush head engaging member (12) and the seat member (14), so as to cause the tooth brush head engaging member (12) to displace relative to the seat member (14) in response to angular displacement of the screw-threaded member (16). |
| US08914959B2 |
Apparatus and method of assembling a piston on a shaft over a lip seal
A method and apparatus for installing a piston over a lip seal on a shaft includes a cylinder or primary force and a weight member or secondary force. The primary force and secondary force are coupled by a resilient member, which will permit the secondary force to retract from the assembly process when the force needed to complete the assembly is above a predetermined value. |
| US08914956B2 |
Manufacturing method for monolithic ceramic electronic component
In a manufacturing method for a monolithic ceramic electronic component, a ceramic paste is applied by using an application plate to a side surface of each of a plurality of green chips arrayed in row and column directions which are obtained after cutting a mother block. In the applying step, the ceramic paste is transferred to the side surface by moving the green chips and the application plate relative to each other in the direction in which the side surface extends while separating the green chips from the application plate, in a state where the ceramic paste is connected to both the green chips and the application plate. |
| US08914955B2 |
Method for manufacturing piezoelectric element and method for manufacturing liquid ejection head
A method for manufacturing a piezoelectric element includes a process for forming a first conductive layer, a process for forming a piezoelectric layer having a region serving as an active region, a process for forming a second conductive layer, which overlaps with the region, a process for forming a third conductive layer, which overlaps with the region, on the second conductive layer, a process for forming an opening portion that divides the third conductive layer into a first portion and a second portion, a process for forming a resist layer that covers the opening portion and a peripheral portion at the side of the opening portion of the first portion and the second portion; a process for etching the third conductive layer to form a first conductive portion and a second conductive portion, and a process for etching the second conductive layer to form a third conductive portion. |
| US08914954B2 |
Method for making a core having built-in cross-linking fibers for composite material panels, resulting panel, and device
A process for the production of a core (10) with integrated bridging fibers (12) for the manufacturing of composite panels, includes producing the following stages: using a cake that is made of light material of the rigid foam type, forming the core (10); depositing excess bridging fibers (12) on at least one surface (18, 20) of the core; making a portion of these bridging fibers (12) penetrate into the core; and removing excess bridging fibers (12) that are not used. The panel that is obtained as well as the associated device are also described. |
| US08914950B1 |
Communication and/or electrical cord organizer and cover
The communication and/or electrical cord organizer and cover includes a tubularly-shaped member of an undefined length, which is outfitted with a fastening means that runs along the length so as to enable opening and sealing off of the tubularly-shaped member. The organizer and cover further includes at least one connector tube that can attach itself in perpendicular orientation to any location along the tubularly-shaped member in order to provide a branching effect for ingress or egress of any electrical or communication cord with respect to the tubularly-shaped member. The connector tubes each include a serrated collar member that pierces a hole through the tubularly-shaped member, and from which threadings are provided on both the serrated collar member and the respective connector tube for securement to the tubularly-shaped member. |
| US08914948B2 |
Scarf zipper
A scarf zipper with a scarf securing member, a medallion member and a medallion connector member. The scarf securing member is attached to the medallion member by the medallion connector member. The scarf securing member is a wire-form component. The scarf securing member having two halves, each terminating at one end in a locking mechanism and at the opposite end in an integral spring and loop. The spring causes the halves to be biased outward from each other until locked together by the locking mechanism. The locked halves retain two panels of a standard scarf. The scarf securing member is capable of being zipped up or down by pulling on the medallion member. The scarf securing member remains in place after being zipped and the medallion member ends up at the front portion of the scarf and acts as a decorative element. |
| US08914942B2 |
Attachment for a vacuum cleaning appliance
An attachment for a vacuum cleaning appliance, the attachment including a head divided into a first rotatable member and a second rotatable member, each rotatable member comprising means for sweeping dirt from a surface, a conduit connectable to a vacuum cleaning appliance for conveying an air flow from the head towards the appliance, a drive mechanism for rotating the head about a first axis while simultaneously rotating the first rotatable member about a second axis and the second rotatable member about a third axis, each of the second axis and the third axis being angled to the first axis, and means for dislodging dirt from the sweeping means with rotation of the head about the first axis so that dislodged dirt may become entrained within the air flow. |
| US08914941B2 |
Cyclone dust collecting apparatus and vacuum cleaner having the same
A cyclone dust collecting apparatus for a vacuum cleaner includes a first chamber; an entering passage disposed above the first chamber, the entering passage guiding outer air to form a downwardly whirling air current in the first chamber; a second chamber formed at a position higher than that of an outlet of the entering passage above the first chamber, the second chamber in which the outer air entering from the first chamber whirls; a contaminants-blocking member disposed to be spaced apart from a bottom surface of the first chamber at a center of the first chamber, the contaminants-blocking member preventing contaminants and water separated in the first chamber from moving into the second chamber; and a grill disposed inside the second chamber to be in fluid communication with an air discharging port through which clean air is discharged. |
| US08914940B2 |
Vacuum axle with a motor embedded therein and wheels
A vacuum cleaner base housing including a motor including a shaft and a wheel mount, wherein the motor is housed within the wheel mount described. In some embodiments, the cleaner base housing includes a first wheel mount including a substantially circular outer surface. In some embodiments, the cleaner base housing includes a second wheel mount including a substantially circular outer surface. In some embodiments, the cleaner base housing the first wheel mount and the second wheel mount are co-axial. |
| US08914932B2 |
Self adjusting ramp
A ramp may include a frame having first and second end portions and at least one rung extending substantially between the frame and being positioned between the first and second end portions, the at least one rung forming at least a portion of a ramp surface. The ramp may further include a plate extending substantially between the frame and being positioned adjacent to at least one of the first and second end portions, and a lip pivotally attached to the plate at a pivot axis, wherein the pivot axis is non-load bearing. |
| US08914931B2 |
Method for controlling a laundry machine using first and second rotations
A laundry machine capable of washing or drying laundry and a method for controlling the same are provided. The method includes a first rotation including rotating a stationary drum in a first rotating direction by a predetermined angle within ˜180 degrees, and a second rotation including rotating the drum, in a direction opposite to the first rotating direction, at least one revolution. |
| US08914928B2 |
Angle detection and control
An alternating pressure pad (1) comprises inflatable cells (9,10) supplied with air by supply lines (7, 8) from a compressor (2) via supply line (3). A pressure controller controls the output of the compressor. Also connected to supply line (3) is an angle detection valve (40) restricting flow of air to atmosphere with increase in its angular position and a pressure transducer (17). Any increase in pressure due to an increase in angle of the detection valve (19) results in back pressure in the detection line. The pressure controller (2) uses the pressure transducer (17) to detect this change in pressure and then acts to adjust compressor output to the cells (9, 10) accordingly. The angle detection valve (40) is positioned under the head section of the pad to move with the head rest section. |
| US08914924B2 |
Patient support with universal energy supply system
A patient support includes a patient support surface, a fluid movement system provided at the patient support, a port mounted at the patient support in selective fluid communication with the fluid movement system, and a device selected from the group consisting of an inflatable device, a conduit, an air operated device, an actuator, a ventilator, and a chamber, with the port adapted for coupling to the device for delivering fluid to the device from the fluid movement system when the device is coupled to the port. |
| US08914920B2 |
Patient lift and coupling therefor
A patient lift including a boom a spreader bar, and a friction coupling for securing the boom and the spreader bar. The friction coupling may include two friction washers disposed against respective inner faces of the boom. Two compression springs are disposed abutting the friction washers with a spreader bar support member in between. The compression springs urge the friction washers against the inner faces of the boom end. The spreader bar does not swing when the lift is moved without load. Also, the friction coupling reduces the swing of the patient, when transferred in the lift. This makes the lift easier to maneuver for the caregiver. |
| US08914917B1 |
Universal athletic pads with combination attachment means
Protective hip pads and tailbone pads formed of resilient padding material have a combination belt slot and snap faster attachment arrangement and can selectively attached to athletic pants having either snap fasteners in the waistband, or to athletic pants having a waistband with a number of exposed slots through which a belt extends. Thin stiff flexible support plates are affixed to the front and back side of the pads and laterally spaced slotted apertures extending through the pad and support plates have a vertical slot and an intersecting horizontal slot. Snap fasteners slidably mounted in respective horizontal slots can be moved to be aligned and pressed onto mating snap members in the waistband to secure the pads to the waistband or, alternatively, moved to expose the vertical slots to receive a pants belt laced through the waistband and vertical slots to secure the pads to the waistband. |
| US08914913B2 |
Pull away vest with detachable shoulders
A vest is disclosed that the user can remove without removing an outer garment such as a coat. The vest utilizes hook and loop fasteners at the shoulder to allow the back and front to be separated. In order to facilitate separation, a pull cord is attached at the rear shoulder and crosses the back of the vest and passes through a guide near the opposing hip. When the pull cord is pulled the opposing shoulder that has been separated is peeled back and down across the back allowing the user to remove the vest without removing an overcoat. |
| US08914912B2 |
Urination relief hatch for waterproof waders and foul weather gear
An improved fishing or hunting wader, exposure suit or foul weather pants/bib incorporates a novel waterproof connectable hatch to provide access for urination. The low profile and lightweight waterproof hatch is centered over the groin area and allows the wearer of a fishing wader, or similar foul weather gear pants, to be able to quickly open the hatch and urinate without removing the cumbersome garment. A hinged or connectable lid may swing upwards and downwards and features a hook-and-loop fastener, a magnetic, or mechanical fastener so that the lid is held up in place and out of the way. After urination, the lid may conveniently snap back into place against a seal or O-ring thereby forming a water tight seal. |
| US08918911B2 |
Connection device authentication
A method and apparatus are provided for a secure interconnect between data modules, including a security apparatus within a secured data interconnect apparatus installed with a security chip. The interconnect apparatus may be authenticated prior to enabling a stacking feature. Authentication of a interconnect apparatus may be used to ensure the quality and performance of the interconnect apparatus and the data modules. |
| US08918910B2 |
Method and system for software licensing under machine virtualization
A method and system implementing software licensing management under machine virtualization are disclosed. According to one embodiment, a system comprises a virtual platform running on a physical machine; a binding agent running on a host operating system of the virtual platform; a license enforcement module running on a virtual machine instance of the virtual platform. The license enforcement module is in communication with the binding agent. The binding agent enforces a mutex lock to ensure that only a specified number of license enforcement modules are running on the physical machine. |
| US08918907B2 |
Approaches for firmware to trust an application
Techniques for determining whether firmware should trust an application sufficiently so as to provide a service to the application. Firmware, executing on a device, receives an indication that an application, also executing on the device, is requesting a service provided by the firmware. The firmware obtains (a) an operating system signature associated with the application and (b) a firmware signature associated with the application. The operating system signature is a signature that is used by the operating system, executing on the device, to authenticate the application, while the firmware signature is a signature that is used by the firmware to authenticate the application. If the firmware determines that the operating system signature matches the firmware signature, then the firmware storing trust data that permits the application to access the service provided by the firmware. The firmware need not calculate a signature based on the in-memory image of the application. |
| US08918906B2 |
Communication service system
A communication service system includes a SNS server 1 that manages contents, and client terminals 10 to 30 that can make access to the SNS server 1 via a network 40. Each of the client terminals 10 to 30 includes a portion with which the client terminal can obtain an object. The SNS server 1 manages objects input by the client terminals 10 to 30, and allows a plurality of client terminals that are connected to the network 40 and browse the same content to share objects. |
| US08918904B2 |
Systems and methods for user identity verification and risk analysis using available social and personal data
A new approach is proposed that contemplates systems and methods to support user identity verification based on social and personal information of the user. Under the approach, customers/users are required to grant identity verifying party a degree of access to their social network information, including but not limited to, account data and social graph information on social networks. The identity verifying party then acquires information of a current or potential user's online presence in addition to other information of the user and utilizes such information to verify the user's identity in the real world and/or to assess the fraud risk of a specific financial transaction requested by the user. |
| US08918903B1 |
Systems and methods for performing authentication validation
A method may include identifying a computer-usage trend of a first user that reflects a history of computer-related activities engaged in by the first user. The computer usage trend may indicate at least one software program and/or website accessed by the user. The method may also include determining that a current user is logged into a computing system under a user account of the first user. The method may further include tracking activities of the current user while the current user is logged into the computing system as the first user, comparing the tracked activities of the current user with the computer-usage trend of the first user, and determining that the tracked activities of the current user do not correspond to the computer-usage trend of the first user. The method may additionally include, performing at least one remedial action. Various other methods, systems, and computer-readable media are also disclosed. |
| US08918901B2 |
System and method for restricting access to requested data based on user location
A system and method for restricting access to requested data based on user location are disclosed. The method comprises receiving a data request and determining origin location information of the data request from a source providing information having accuracy to a predetermined standard. The method further comprises retrieving one or more policies associated with the requested data, comparing the origin location information with the policies, and dynamically adjusting access restrictions to the requested data based on the comparison. |
| US08918900B2 |
Smart card for passport, electronic passport, and method, system, and apparatus for authenticating person holding smart card or electronic passport
A smart card authenticates a cardholder. The smart card includes a substrate, a sensor module, a wireless transceiver module, and a power circuit. The sensor module includes (a) a biometric sensor adapted to detect biometric information from a person's body, (b) a processor unit adapted to authenticate the person in response to the detected biometric information and generate an authentication signal representing an authentication result, and (c) a memory adapted to store biometric information of a specific individual associated with the smart card. The wireless transceiver module transmits signals received from the processor unit and receives a wirelessly-transmitted power signal. The power circuit generates at least one supply voltage from the received power signal and provides the supply voltage to the sensor module. An electronic passport is embedded with the smart card, and a terminal module is used for wirelessly transmitting power to and receiving signals from the electronic passport. |
| US08918895B2 |
Prevention of information leakage from a document based on dynamic database label based access control (LBAC) policies
In a method for preventing information leakage in a workflow environment, a computer system receives a request to access documents in a repository. In one aspect, the computer system identifies articles in the document against the access credentials of the requestor. Further, the computer system extracts protected information from rows and columns in the articles based on label access controls. In another aspect, the computer system generates protected values in the extracted protected information from the rows and generating protected patterns in the extracted protected information from the columns. The computer system redacts the generated protected value and the generated protected patterns based on the access credentials of the requestor. |
| US08918893B2 |
Managing a fault condition by a security module
A microcontroller is awakened from a lower power state in response to a trigger indication indicative of a fault condition. After the awakening, the microcontroller performs a security action with respect to secret information in the security module in response to the fault condition. |
| US08918890B2 |
Method of managing software license contracts, system and information processing apparatus therefor, and target software for license contracts
A URL, to launch a license contract registration process, in software which requires license registration is informed to a license contract information input server which executes a process of inputting information necessary for license registration. After input of the necessary information, the license contract information input server transfers a request for license registration to the informed URL. The information necessary for license registration is inputted in accordance with a format arbitrarily created by the license contract information input server. A Web browser used by a user to operate a license contract registration process and license management target software can run on different hosts. After distribution of the target software for a license contract, information to be input by the user at the time of license contract can be changed. |
| US08918889B2 |
Information processing apparatus and method
An information processing apparatus for determining whether or not to transmit a predetermined content to a reception apparatus connected to a network, in accordance with a response time taken to respond to a predetermined command, including: reception means receiving a response to a command; measuring means measuring the response time to the command; authentication means authenticating the reception apparatus; generation means generating authentication data to be inserted into the command; transmission means transmitting the command including predetermined one of the authentication data; storage means storing the authentication data contained in the command and the response data contained in the response; request means requesting the reception apparatus for transmission of the authentication data and the response data; and determination means determining whether the authentication data and the response data transmitted from the reception apparatus, and determining transmission permission/inhibition of a content to the reception apparatus. |
| US08918880B2 |
Plant security managing device, managing method and managing program
A technology is provided which ensures a high security without affecting a plant operation. A plant security managing device includes a determining unit that determines which one of control units multiplexed as a service system and a standby system associated with monitoring and controlling of a plant is the standby system, a security processing unit that performs a security process for detecting the presence/absence of a security abnormality on the control unit that is the standby system, and a change instructing unit that outputs an instruction for changing the control unit that is the standby system and the control unit that is the service system with each other after the completion of the security process by the security processing unit. |
| US08918878B2 |
Restoration of file damage caused by malware
In accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method including: detecting a malware in a computer system and in response to the detection of the malware in the computer system initiating a deactivation of malware; detecting a file altered by the malware in response to a successful deactivation of the malware; and initiating a restoration of the altered file in response to the detection of the file altered by the malware. |
| US08918877B1 |
Signature compilation on a security device
Signature compilation on a security device is disclosed. A first set of malware signatures is received. The first set of signatures is compiled at a first time. A second set of malware signatures is received. The second set of signatures is compiled at a second time that is different from the first time. A determination of whether a file is malicious is made based at least in part by performing a scan using the first and second compiled signatures. |
| US08918876B2 |
Deviating behaviour of a user terminal
The invention relates to a method, device (24) in a network node of a communication network (N) and computer program products for determining deviating behavior of a user terminal (10). According to the invention the device (24) obtains a first group of event data sets (EDS1) and a second group of event data sets (EDS2, EDS4), where each group includes at least one event data set. Each event data set in the first group includes user terminal generated event data related to events in a specific user terminal (10) and each event data set in the second group includes network generated event data related to the specific user terminal. The device then performs a comparison involving the first group of event data sets and the second group of event data sets and determines the existence of deviating behavior of the user terminal based on the comparison. |
| US08918873B1 |
Systems and methods for exonerating untrusted software components
The instant disclosure describes various exemplary systems and methods for exonerating an untrusted software component based solely on a trusted software component's non-optional or “hard” dependency on the untrusted software component. In one example, a method for exonerating untrusted software components in this manner may include: 1) identifying a dependent software component, 2) determining that the dependent software component is a non-optional dependent component of at least one trusted software component, and then 3) classifying the dependent software component as a trusted software component. As detailed herein, such a method may enable security software to quickly and efficiently exonerate untrusted components by association without having to scan or perform other intrusive and/or resource-intensive security operations on such untrusted software components. |
| US08918871B1 |
Blocking/unblocking algorithms for signaling optimization in a wireless network for traffic utilizing proprietary and non-proprietary protocols
According to one aspect, the subject matter described herein includes a method for signaling optimization in a wireless network utilizing proprietary and non-proprietary protocols. A first session is established between an application on a mobile device and a local proxy on the mobile device, a second session is established between the local proxy and a proxy server not located on the mobile device, and a third session is established between the proxy server and a content server. A byte stream present within the first and second sessions is monitored to identify patterns within the byte stream. If a pattern is found, the pattern is used to determine a behavior of the application. If that behavior is one that is a candidate for optimization, signaling optimization is performed between the application and the content server. Signaling optimization includes dismantling the second session, replaying the pattern to the application via the first session, and replaying the pattern to the content server via the third session. |
| US08918869B2 |
Methods and systems for implementing a self defending/repairing database
This disclosure describes, generally, methods and systems for self defending and repairing a database. The method includes monitoring, at a database server, code modifications to a database management application. The database management application is configured to maintain the database. The method further includes determining that a code modification has occurred to the database management application. The method further includes checking the code modification for the presence of an authorization key, and in response to an invalid or non-existent authorization key, determining that the code modification is unauthorized. Further, the method includes quarantining the modified code in a secure storage location, and automatically accessing original code of the database management application and replacing the modified code with code from the original code of the database management application. |
| US08918867B1 |
Information security implementations with extended capabilities
Systems, devices or methods provide for control of sensitive data in a computer system that includes at least one central server communicatively-coupled to a plurality of client computers. A particular method relates to the execution of software code on the at least one central server to monitor data communications of the plurality of client computers for sensitive data. A subset of the data communications is restricted when sensitive data is detected. Configuration data is provided to each of the plurality of client computers. Software code is executed on each of the plurality of client computers to detect accesses to sensitive data by one or more applications running on a client computer. Actions of the one or more applications running on a client computer are monitored to determine whether or not a trigger event has occurred. In response to determining that the trigger event has occurred, a notification is sent. |
| US08918864B2 |
System, method, and computer program product for making a scan decision during communication of data over a network
A system, method, and computer program product are provided for scanning data during communication of the data over a network. In use, a process is initiated for determining whether to scan data, during communication of the data over the network. Further, the data is conditionally scanned based on the determination. |
| US08918861B2 |
Marking one or more items in response to determining device transfer
A computationally implemented method includes, but is not limited to: determining that a computing device that was presenting one or more portions of one or more items and that was in possession of a first user has been transferred from the first user to a second user; and marking, in response to said determining, the one or more portions of the one or more items to facilitate the computing device in returning to the one or more portions upon the computing device being at least transferred back to the first user. In addition to the foregoing, other method aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure. |
| US08918854B1 |
Proximity-based system for automatic application initialization
A system and method provide automatic access to applications or data. A portable physical device, referred to herein as a Personal Digital Key or “PDK”, stores one or more profiles in memory. In one embodiment, a biometric profile is acquired in a secure trusted process and uniquely associated with a user that is authorized to use and associated with the PDK. The PDK wirelessly transmits identification information including a unique PDK identification number, and optionally the biometric profile and a profile over a secure wireless channel to a reader. A computing device is coupled to the reader. An auto login server is coupled to the reader and the computing device and launches one or more applications associated with a user name identified by the received profile. |
| US08918852B2 |
Method of authentication user using server and image forming apparatus using the method
A method of authenticating a user using a server and an image forming apparatus using the same, the method including: transmitting, from an image forming apparatus to a first server that functions as an authentication server, user authentication information; determining if the first server authenticates the user based on the user authentication information; and transmitting, to a second server that processes image data, the user authentication information if the first server authenticates the user, wherein the second server authenticates the user based on the transmitted user authentication information authenticated by the first server. Thus, the user of the image forming apparatus can be automatically authenticated by the second server by authenticating the user on the first server. |
| US08918850B2 |
Share cookie on native platform in mobile device without having to ask for the user's login information
Methods, apparatuses, and computer-readable media for obtaining a limited ID cookie for ad targeting are disclosed. A client requests a limited ID cookie from a cookie making module (CMM), which sends a personal cookie to a verification module for verification. After verification, verification module sends a user ID with user information to CMM. CMM creates the limited ID cookie, and the limited ID cookie is sent to the client. The limited ID cookie is sent to an ads server which utilizes the limited ID cookie to target ads towards the user. |
| US08918849B2 |
Secure user credential control
In some embodiments, a user has use a single universal text—or image-based secret for generating a service-provider specific identity credential, for example username plus password, for authentication is derived. A human (i.e., the user) must interpret an image to enter this universal text (or image) based secret. For example, an image based challenge is presented to the user, and a credential is obtained based on the user's response to the challenge. |
| US08918847B2 |
Layer 7 authentication using layer 2 or layer 3 authentication
A system and method for authenticating a layer 7 client application (application layer) based on a layer 2 (data link layer) or a layer 3 (network layer) authentication is provided. A request to authenticate to a network is received from a communication device. The request to authenticate to the network is for a layer 2 or layer 3 authentication. The communication device is authenticated to the network based on having the necessary credentials.A request is received to authenticate a layer 7 client application running on the communication device. The layer 7 client application running on the communication device requires a layer 7 authentication. The layer 7 client application running on the communication device is authenticated based on the layer 2 or layer 3 authentication. |
| US08918846B2 |
Method and system for secure mobile messaging
A system and method for securely storing, retrieving and sharing data using PCs and mobile devices and for controlling and tracking the movement of data to and from a variety of computing and storage devices. |
| US08918843B1 |
Detecting unauthorized tethering
In systems and methods of detecting unauthorized tethering by a wireless device, plurality of wireless devices in communication with an access node is detected, and a suspect device list of wireless devices which are not authorized for tethering is determined from among the plurality of detected wireless devices. Based on a resource usage pattern of the at least one wireless device, at least one wireless device is removed from the suspect device list. For each wireless device remaining on the suspect device list a software indicator is examined, and a list of wireless devices performing unauthorized tethering is created based on the examined software indicators. |
| US08918841B2 |
Hardware interface access control for mobile applications
Methods, articles of manufacture, and apparatus for hardware interface access control for mobile applications are disclosed. A disclosed example method includes restricting an application from accessing a set of hardware interfaces of a mobile device, and providing a virtual interface to the application via which the application is to access a first hardware interface in the set of hardware interfaces, the virtual interface provided by a program in a kernel layer of an operating system of the mobile device to control at least one of access or a method of access to the first hardware interface in the set of hardware interfaces, the first hardware interface that is accessible via the virtual interface being unknown to the application. |
| US08918839B2 |
System and method for providing multi-location access management to secured items
A system and method for providing access management to secured items through use of a plurality of server machines associated with different locations are disclosed. According to one embodiment, a local server can be dynamically reconfigured depending on a user's current location. Upon detecting that a user has moved to a new location, the local server for the new location can be reconfigured to add support for the user, while simultaneously, the local server for the previous location is reconfigured to remove support for the user. As a result, security is enhanced while the access management can be efficiently carried out to ensure that only one access from the user is permitted at any time across an entire organization, regardless of how many locations the organization has or what access privileges the user may be granted. |
| US08918834B1 |
Creating custom policies in a remote-computing environment
Techniques for crafting custom policies for entities (e.g., users, applications, etc.) based on past behavior of the entities are described herein. In one example, the techniques are implemented in a network-based environment. In this environment, a remote-computing service may include multiple different resources that provide different services to customers of the remote-computing service. For instance, the remote-computing service may provide a network-based storage service, a network-based compute service, a network-based payment service, or any other network-based resource. Users and/or applications of a particular customer may then access these resources via an interface provided by the remote-computing service. After tracking a user or application's access to these resources for a certain period of time, the remote-computing service may recommend or create a custom policy for the user or application based on the requests made by the user or application. |
| US08918831B2 |
Method and apparatus for managing a presentation of media content
A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a computer-readable storage medium having computer instructions to present a plurality of unassociated media programs from a single presentation device having overlapping presentation periods, and cause the single presentation device to present a user interface for one of the plurality of unassociated media programs responsive to detecting a request for the user interface. Each of the plurality of unassociated media programs can be viewable only with a viewing apparatus. The viewing apparatus can be configured for viewing one of the unassociated media programs at a time. Other embodiments are disclosed and contemplated. |
| US08918828B2 |
Private user data
An embodiment of the present invention includes a technique for extracting private user data. A data sequence in a packetized transport stream is parsed to obtain a user data identifier (UDI) associated with a pre-defined data structure. The UDI is registered with a registration authority and is different from a standard identifier that is defined by a standard organization in a published standard document. The UDI is recognized. The private user data is extracted from the data sequence according to the pre-defined data structure corresponding to the recognized UDI. |
| US08918826B2 |
Method of searching internet and video receiving apparatus to use the same
A method of searching the Internet and a video receiving apparatus, such as an Internet TV, to use the same to enable currently-displayed video to be transmitted to an external apparatus, such as a remote controller, and the video received from the external apparatus to be controlled, thereby increasing user convenience. Specifically, the video captured from the video receiving apparatus is transmitted to the external apparatus which receives coordinate data and performs an operation indicated by a menu of the currently-displayed video corresponding to the coordinate data received from the external apparatus so that websites having menus requiring user control can be used without requiring redesign even if the websites are not designed for use with the video receiving apparatus. |
| US08918824B2 |
Logical node identification in an information transmission network
A system for generating and sending a Logical Node identification signal as part of a data stream is disclosed. The system also includes subscriber stations capable of receiving and extracting Logical Node identification information from a data stream. The subscriber stations create new messages including the Logical Node identification signal and send the message to the transmission network system control, such that switching of data streams to an appropriate channel over the information transmission network is done consistent with the network topology. |
| US08918822B2 |
Displaying a synchronized instance of content on a portable electronic device
A method and system are described for displaying a synchronized instance of content on a portable electronic device. In the described embodiments, a selection of streaming content that is being displayed on a fixed display system is received by the portable electronic device. The portable electronic device then determines if the portable electronic device is compatible with the streaming content being received by the fixed display system. If the portable electronic device is compatible with the streaming content being received by the fixed display system, then the portable electronic device requests the synchronized instance of the streaming content and displays it. |
| US08918820B2 |
Video workflow automation platform
A method and system for a video workflow automation platform (VWAP) is described. |
| US08918815B2 |
Display control device, television receiver, method of controlling display, display control program and recording medium
The television (1) includes: an infrared radiation receiver (119) which receives from a user an instruction to select a program cell; and a CPU (118) which generates a user interface screen of an electronic program table to be displayed on an LCD (110). The CPU (118) generates the user interface screen of the electronic program table such that a time zone item column located in a left direction of a selected program cell and a time zone item column located in a right direction of the selected program cell are indicated with deep blue, and other time zone item columns are indicated with light blue. |
| US08918812B2 |
Method of sizing an embedded media player page
In a method of displaying video data using an embedded media player page, frame dimensional data for a first video file is received from a database. The database includes frame dimensional data indexed therein for a plurality of video files. The plurality of video files includes the first video file, and the plurality of video files is retrievable from at least one video server through a communications network. A media player is launched within the embedded media player page. A video display area of the media player is sized based upon the received frame dimensional data. The video data from the first video file is displayed within the video display area. |
| US08918811B2 |
Program guide system with video-on-demand browsing
An interactive television program guide system is provided in which a viewer may direct a television to simultaneously display a selected television program and a program guide display. A viewer may use the program guide display to browse available video-on-demand (VOD) while continuing to view a previously selected program in the background. The viewer may browse through video-on-demand programs on the program guide display using a variety of keys on a remote control unit. The viewer may direct the program guide to order a given video-on-demand program and set a desired broadcast time for that program. |
| US08918808B2 |
Method and apparatus for presenting media content
A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a set top box having a controller to obtain display parameters associated with a display device, adjust a format of media content at the set top box based at least in part on the display parameters where the adjustment is of one or more portions of a display of the media content, and transmit the media content from the set top box to the display device. Other embodiments are disclosed. |
| US08918802B2 |
Methods and apparatus to monitor media exposure
Methods and apparatus to monitor media exposure are disclosed. An example implementation includes transmitting a start signal from a mailable meter to at least one mailable meter to at least one wearable meter; receiving a first audio at the mailable meter upon transmission of the start signal; receiving a second audio at the at least one wearable meter upon reception of the start signal; deriving a signature of the first received audio at the mailable meter; deriving a signature of the second received audio at the at least one wearable meter; transmitting the signature of the second received audio and an identification number from the at least one wearable meter to the mailable meter; and storing the signature of the first received audio and the identification number at the mailable meter as audience measurement data if the signature of the first received audio and the signature of the second received audio correlate. |
| US08918800B2 |
Receiving apparatus and receiving method, broadcasting apparatus and broadcasting method, information processing apparatus and information processing method, bidirectional communication system and bidirectional communication method, and providing medium
When the user of a receiving apparatus presses a notice button provided for a remote controller to indicate the preference concerning the person or thing appearing on the screen of the program being viewed, the corresponding signal is transmitted to the receiving section of a set-top box. A view-log storage section stores an input operation command (including the signal indicating that the notice button has been pressed) together with the receiving time thereof as a view log. A view-information generating section reads the view log, generates a view-information packet, and outputs it to a bidirectional communication section. The bidirectional communication section transmits the view-information packet input from the view-information generating section to a broadcasting apparatus through a bidirectional communication network. |
| US08918799B2 |
Method to utilize cores in different operating system partitions
A system call utility may be provided on a first operating system managing a first hardware computing entity. The system call utility may take as an argument a pointer to a computer code a second operating system established to run on the first hardware computing entity. The first operating system is enabled to execute the computer code natively on the first hardware computing entity, and return a result of the computer code executed on the first hardware computing entity to the second operating system. |
| US08918794B2 |
Quality of service aware captive aggregation with true datacenter testing
Technologies are generally described for efficient datacenter management. In some examples, client jobs on a datacenter are subcontracted out to another datacenter so that the subcontracted jobs can be pulled back to the original datacenter when capacity becomes available again. A captive aggregator module combining network message, command management, data analysis on QoS effects of traffic relay, and strategic management decides whether it makes sense to keep tasks captively aggregated. A middleware system for testing true performance of an application or surrogate and optimizing among multiple datacenters based on true performance evaluates candidate datacenters prior to subcontracting jobs from the original datacenter. The middleware deploys the application to multiple candidate clouds to perform substantially similar tasks on resources that claim to be roughly equivalent in price/performance. The middleware receives data on actual cost and resource consumption, analyzes differences, and redistributes actual work tasks to take advantage of differences. |
| US08918793B2 |
Resolving resource contentions
A computer-implemented method for managing access to a shared resource of a process may include identifying a plurality of process steps, each process step of the plurality of process steps, when executed, accessing the shared resource at a same time. The method may also include rearranging at least one of the process steps of the plurality of process steps to access the shared resource at a different time. |
| US08918791B1 |
Method and system for queuing a request by a processor to access a shared resource and granting access in accordance with an embedded lock ID
A hardware-based method is provided for allocating shared resources in a system-on-chip (SoC). The SoC includes a plurality of processors and at least one shared resource, such as an input/output (IO) port or a memory. A queue manager (QM) includes a plurality of input first-in first-out memories (FIFOs) and a plurality of output FIFOs. A first application writes a first request to access the shared resource. A first application programming interface (API) loads the first request at a write pointer of a first input FIFO associated with the first processor. A resource allocator reads the first request from a read pointer of the first input FIFO, generates a first reply, and loads the first reply at a write pointer of a first output FIFO associated with the first processor. The first API supplies the first reply, from a read pointer of the first output FIFO, to the first application. |
| US08918790B2 |
Method and system for application profiling for purposes of defining resource requirements
Disclosed are a method of and system for profiling a computer program. The method comprises the steps of using a utility application to execute the computer program; and on the basis of said execution of the computer program, identifying specific performance requirements of the computer program. A profile of the computer program is determined from said identified performance requirements; and based on said determined profile, resources for the computer program are selected from a grid of computer services. |
| US08918788B2 |
Scheduling virtual CPU based on priority calculated using time statistics
The present invention provides a scheduling method for a data processing system comprising at least one physical CPU, and one or more virtual machines each assigned to one or more virtual CPUs, the method comprising: a first scheduling step in which one of said virtual machines is elected to run on said physical CPU; and a second scheduling step in which at least one of the virtual CPUs assigned to the elected virtual machine is elected to run on said physical CPU. The second scheduling step is applied to the virtual machine only. When a virtual machine instance is elected to run on a given CPU, the second level scheduling determines the virtual CPU instance to run. The second level scheduling is global and can cause a virtual CPU migration from one physical CPU to another. In order to ensure correct task scheduling at guest level, virtually equivalent (in terms of calculation power) virtual CPUs should be provided to the scheduler. This is achieved by the second level scheduler using a virtual CPU election criteria based on time statistics. |
| US08918784B1 |
Providing service quality levels through CPU scheduling
In this disclosure, a resource scheduler is described that allows virtual machine instances to earn resource credits during the low activity levels. Virtual machine instances that spend a predominant amount of time operating at low activity levels are able to quickly gain resource credits. Once these virtual machine instances acquire enough resource credits to surpass a threshold level, the resource scheduler can assign a high priority level to the virtual machine instances that provide them with priority access to CPU resources. The next time that the virtual machine instances enter a high activity level, they have a high priority level that allows them to preempt other, lower priority virtual machine instances. Thus, these virtual machine instances are able to process operations and/or respond to user requests with low latency. |
| US08918782B2 |
Software image distribution
Aspects of the subject matter described herein relate to image distribution. In aspects, portions of an installation image of an operating system may be distributed to one or more repositories. In conjunction with determining a distribution of the installation image, one or more factors may be received. Based on the factor(s), a distribution manager may determine one or more repositories over which the data of the installation image is to be distributed. An indication of this distribution may be persisted for use in obtaining the data from the one or more repositories for installing, configuring, and/or re-configuring the operating system. |
| US08918780B2 |
Automatic quality assurance for software installers
An approach for assuring quality of a software installer is presented. A first view of a system is recorded. The installer is executed to create installed components for an application, and subsequently, a second view of the system is recorded. Based on a recorded change between the first and second views, information about the installed components is recorded. The installation is determined to be successful or unsuccessful. If successful, selected installed components are removed. The installer is executed to reinstall the selected installed components. The reinstallation is verified. A third view of the system is recorded. An uninstaller is executed to uninstall the software application. A fourth view of the system is recorded. The uninstallation is verified. A report is generated using the first, second, third and fourth views. |
| US08918779B2 |
Logical migration of applications and data
Implementations are described of a computing device that migrates data and software applications from a first computing device to a second computing device, in order to preserve data and other application-related customizations. |
| US08918777B2 |
Schema specification to improve product consumability on installation, configuration, and/or un-installation activity
Provided are techniques for retrieving a universal schema specification file that defines a structure of a product specific data set, retrieving the product specific data set that defines a specific configuration for a version of a product, validating the product specific data set using the universal schema specification file, and using the validated product specific data set and a product specific installable to automatically install the version of the product with the specific configuration. |
| US08918775B1 |
Dynamic release control of software application version changes
Dynamic release control is performed by identifying a plurality of software application instances installed on a mainframe system, identifying a compatibility level for each software application instance, designating a common execution level based upon a lowest one of the identified compatibility levels, configuring each software application instance to conform to the common execution level, receiving a software update indication that at least one software application instance has been updated and performing a compatibility level switch across the plurality of software application instances after receiving the software update indication if a lowest one of the compatibility levels is different from the common execution level by adjusting the common execution level based upon the lowest one of the compatibility levels and by reconfiguring each software application instance to operate in a mode that constrains the corresponding software application instance to conform to the adjusted common execution level. |
| US08918774B2 |
Updating a computer system
A method, computer program product, and system for updating a computer system may include collecting data describing usage characteristics on a customer computer system. Available updates may be stored on a support system together with one or more relevant rules. A recommendation engine may be used to analyze the data describing usage characteristics and to recommend one or more changes based on evaluation of one or more relevant rules for each available update. Changes having one or more attributes and one or more successor relationships to recommend for installation in the computer system may be selected. |
| US08918773B2 |
Partially upgradable application and performing database operations with the application
A device provides, to a server device, a single request for user information associated with an application provided in the device. The device also receives, from the server device and based on the single request, one or more tables in a same format as stored in the server device, where the one or more tables are not joined by the server device. The device further stores the one or more tables in a database associated with the device, queries the one or more tables in the database for the user information, and provides, to the application, the user information retrieved based on the query. |
| US08918772B1 |
Statically analyzing program correctness for a dynamic programming language
One embodiment of the present invention provides a system that uses static analysis to determine program correctness for a program written in a dynamic programming language. During operation, the system receives executable code for a program written in the dynamic programming language. The system identifies a program method called in the executable code, and determines if the program method is implemented for the executable code. If not, the system signals that the program method is not implemented for the executable code. |
| US08918770B2 |
Compiler for X86-based many-core coprocessors
A system and method for compiling includes, for a parallelizable code portion of an application stored on a computer readable storage medium, determining one or more variables that are to be transferred to and/or from a coprocessor if the parallelizable code portion were to be offloaded. A start location and an end location are determined for at least one of the one or more variables as a size in memory. The parallelizable code portion is transformed by inserting an offload construct around the parallelizable code portion and passing the one or more variables and the size as arguments of the offload construct such that the parallelizable code portion is offloaded to a coprocessor at runtime. |
| US08918768B2 |
Methods and apparatus for correlation protected processing of data operations
A method and an apparatus for receiving a first source code having a code block to update the first source code with multiple copies of the code block to protect against correlation attacks are described. The code block can perform one or more operations for execution based on the first source code. The operations can be performed via a random one of the copies of the code block. A second source code based on the updated first source code can be generated to be executed by a processor to produce an identical result as the first source code. |
| US08918766B2 |
Analysis of propagated information using annotated forests
Annotation information associated with entities of a computing system can be added to a forest generated from the entities where the structure of the forest reflects relationships between the entities. Annotations associated with a child node can be propagated to all parent nodes of the child node all the way up to one or more root nodes of the annotated forest. Annotations associated with a child node can be propagated to a specified depth or place or at nodes with one or more particular characteristics or annotations. The propagation can be performed on-demand to all or some subset of nodes. The annotated forest can be analyzed to determine nodes to which a set of conditions apply. |
| US08918762B2 |
Generating test plans and test cases from service-oriented architecture and process models
Testing a system under test (SUT) having a service-oriented architecture includes generating a first test plan for an inbound interface for each service model, generating a second test plan for an outbound interface of each service model, and generating a third test plan for information consumed by the service models using a processor. Testing the system further includes generating a fourth test plan for a process model, wherein the process model utilizes the service models, generating a fifth test plan that maps service models and the process model to executables of the system, and concatenating the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth test plans into a complete test plan for the SUT using the processor. |
| US08918760B2 |
Test script generation for application image validation
Embodiments of the present invention provide a method, system and computer program product for automated test script generation for application image validation. In an embodiment of the invention, a method of automated test script generation for application image validation is provided. The method can include parsing different modules of an existing image of a customized form of a base application to identify graphical user interface (GUI) elements in different screens of each of the different modules and cataloguing in a GUI element catalog, different GUI elements identified during parsing. The method also can include generating test scripts from the GUI element catalog. Finally, the method can include applying the generated test scripts to a new image of the customized form of the base application. |
| US08918759B2 |
Memory model for a layout engine and scripting engine
Various embodiments provide an interface between a Web browser's layout engine and a scripting engine. The interface enables objects from the layout engine to be recognized by a memory manager in the scripting engine and interact in a streamlined, efficient manner. In accordance with one or more embodiments, the interface allows browser layout engine objects to be created as objects that are native to the scripting engine. Alternately or additionally, in some embodiments, the native objects are further configured to proxy functionality between the layout engine and the scripting engine. |
| US08918755B2 |
Enterprise performance management software system having dynamic code generation
An enterprise software system provides dynamic code generation techniques that facilitate quick and efficient resolution of multi-dimensional data demands. The system includes an object store that stores a first object that references multi-dimensional data and an object model that receives a request for multi-dimensional data referenced by the first object. The object model causes the first object to dynamically generate a portion of the executable software instructions for a second object in response to the request and instantiate the second object within the object store. The dynamically generated portion of the instructions enables the second object to calculate a memory address into the multi-dimensional data referenced by the first object. The second object utilizes the dynamically generated portion of the instructions to satisfy the request. Because the second object maintains direct access to the multi-dimensional data, it need not make costly and time consuming function calls to the first object. |
| US08918754B2 |
Software customization system and method
A system and method for the mass customization of software includes a software production line infrastructure, development environment, and actuator. The infrastructure organizes the software production line using a feature declarations component, a product definitions component, an automatons component, and a partition composition component. The development environment browses, displays, organizes, edits, and maintains the infrastructure. The actuator actuates the software production line to produce custom software products. |
| US08918747B2 |
Formal verification of a logic design
A method is provided for verification of a logic design for a processor execution unit which includes an instruction pipeline with one or more pipeline stages. The method includes: creating a design under test using at least a first and a second instance of the logic design; initializing the instruction pipeline using the first instance of the design under test with the same value in each instruction pipeline stage and the second instance with random values in its pipeline stages; selecting an instruction of the processor execution unit out of a plurality of instructions and simultaneously issuing the instruction to each instance of the design under test; providing a comparison between the outputs of the instruction pipeline executing the instruction for each instance; and if the instruction is verifiable by formal model checking, approving the correctness of the logic design if the comparison result is true. |
| US08918746B1 |
Cut mask aware contact enclosure rule for grating and cut patterning solution
Methodologies and an apparatus enabling a selection of design rules to improve a density of features of an IC design are disclosed. Embodiments include: determining a feature overlapping a grating pattern of an IC design, the grating pattern including a plurality of grating structures; determining a shape of a cut pattern overlapping the grating pattern; and selecting one of a plurality of rules for the feature based on the determined shape. |
| US08918742B2 |
Methods and systems for pattern design with tailored response to wavefront aberration
The present invention relates to methods and systems for designing gauge patterns that are extremely sensitive to parameter variation, and thus robust against random and repetitive measurement errors in calibration of a lithographic process utilized to image a target design having a plurality of features. The method may include identifying most sensitive line width/pitch combination with optimal assist feature placement which leads to most sensitive CD (or other lithography response parameter) changes against lithography process parameter variations, such as wavefront aberration parameter variation. The method may also include designing gauges which have more than one test patterns, such that a combined response of the gauge can be tailored to generate a certain response to wavefront-related or other lithographic process parameters. The sensitivity against parameter variation leads to robust performance against random measurement error and/or any other measurement error. |
| US08918736B2 |
Replay recommendations in a text entry interface
A method includes receiving a current set of characters in response to a sequence of user commands. The current set of characters includes a current sequence of words. A respective word in the current sequence of words includes one or more characters in the current set of characters. The user commands include character entry commands. Additional user commands that specify characters to delete from the current set of characters and characters to add to the current set of characters are received. Replay recommendations for additional words to be added to the current set of characters in accordance with one or more deleted words that correspond to the deleted characters are provided. |
| US08918734B2 |
Reduced keyboard with prediction solutions when input is a partial sliding trajectory
A reduced virtual keyboard system for text input on electronic devices is disclosed. Text input is performed by creating a tracing trajectory. Dynamic prediction solutions are created during the tracing process, thus avoiding the need for a user to complete the entire word trajectory. The system also allows a mixture of tapping actions and sliding motions for the same word. The system may comprise a Long Words Dictionary database having first letters corresponding to predetermined keys of the keyboard. Alternatively, the system uses a Dictionary and a database management tool to find long words. |
| US08918729B2 |
Designing electronic forms
A system and method enabling a designer to build electronic forms from hierarchical data is described. Displays of hierarchical data, facilitation of selection of a portion of the hierarchical data, and displays of one or more transformation-language components associated with a selected portion of hierarchical data are described. From the transformation-language components selected by a designer, generation of an electronic form is also described. |
| US08918727B2 |
Video messaging
Systems and techniques for transferring electronic data between users of a communications system by receiving, at an instant messaging host, a video file from a sender and intended for a recipient; authenticating the video file; and sending the video file to the intended recipient. |
| US08918726B2 |
Method and apparatus for implementing shared editing of document
The present invention provides a method for implementing shared editing of a document, including: dividing a document into multiple portions; when a user modifies the document, providing at least one portion of the multiple portions for the user to modify, wherein the at least one portion is prohibited to be modified by another user at the same time; and storing the modified by the user. Therefore, multiple users may edit a same document simultaneously by utilizing a docbase management system, and the modifications made by each user to the document can be stored wholly. Moreover, because the document is managed by one party, the security of the document can be guaranteed. |
| US08918725B2 |
Systems and methods to support real-time integrated mobile communication for social applications
A user interface on a mobile device includes an integrated communication region positioned within a viewable area of an application on the mobile device. The integrated communication region is configured to display a preview of content of a first message of a plurality of messages sent by a plurality of users. The first message is a most recent message of the plurality of messages. Visibility of the preview is persistent across a plurality of screens of the application. Across the plurality of screens of the application, (i) a position of the preview within the integrated communication region and (ii) the visibility of the preview remain unchanged until displaced by a second message. The second message is more recent than the first message. |
| US08918722B2 |
System and methodology for collaboration in groups with split screen displays
A system and methodology for collaboration. A plurality of computing appliances, each respective one of the plurality of computing appliances having a display apparatus and having a user input apparatus to provide respective annotation data as input for the respective user to permit the respective user to provide annotations which appear within a display presentation as an image for viewing and representative of the annotations. A first subset of the plurality of computing appliances is comprised of at least two of the computing appliances that form members of a group. Separate selective communication of the annotation data is provided among the members of the group. There is selective display of the annotation data to selected ones of the members of the group. The annotation data is selectively coupled for distribution to other ones of the plurality of computing appliances in the group for selective viewing at certain other ones of the plurality of computing appliances.Selection logic permits at least one of the users' to selectively choose which of the other users within the group are selected ones that are to have their corresponding annotations viewed as part of the display presentation for the at least one of the users.In one embodiment, a plurality of separate screen display presentations are provided in a split-screen combined presentation to each of the respective users at each said respective computing appliances. Coordinator logic selects which of the users' annotations are utilized in generated each of the display presentation for each of the respective users. |
| US08918720B1 |
List of most selected web based application documents
Methods, systems, and apparatuses, including computer programs encoded on computer-readable media, for receiving one or more keywords at a web application that are used to search for documents of a first type. The documents are accessible by a user via an account of the user based upon user permissions. Search results are provided based upon the keywords and include links to one or more documents of the first type. A selection one or more of the links is received. Selecting the links logs data that includes an indication that the documents were selected. A request for a list of most or recently selected documents of the first type for the user is received. The list of most or recently selected documents of the first type is based upon an aggregation of the logged data, and the list of most selected documents of the first type is provided. |
| US08918716B2 |
Context-based smart tags
A context-based action determiner is configured to facilitate the application of context-based smart tags. The context-based action determiner includes a type determining module configured to determine a type of a context object based on a context in which the context object is being used. The context-based action determiner also includes an action determining module configured to determine one or more context-specific actions that may be performed for the context object based on the type of the context object and to provide the context-specific actions to a user. The context-based action determiner further includes a selection receiving module configured to receive a selection from the user of a context-specific action to be performed and an action performing module configured to perform the selected context-specific action. The type of the context object and the action to be performed are determined based on a smart tag configuration. |
| US08918713B2 |
Module specification for a module to be incorporated into a container document
A computer readable medium, an electronic document or a system that uses one of these that includes particular code that specifies a first module selectively designated for inclusion in a personalized container document and additional code that specifies a second module selectively designated for inclusion in the personalized container document. The container document designates a plurality of modules included in the container document. Each module in the plurality of modules is adapted for rendering module data for presenting in the container document. The first module is adapted to render module data based at least in part on the particular code, the particular code including a first content type element, a first content element and one or more preference elements. The second module is adapted for rendering module data for presenting in the container document based at least in part on the additional code, the additional code including a second content type element, a second content element and one or more preference elements. The first content type element is different than the second content type element. |
| US08918712B2 |
Dynamically generating a mobile application
Methods and apparatuses, including computer program products, are described for dynamically generating a mobile application. A server receives a request from a mobile device to launch an application on the mobile device. The server generates a configuration file based on the launched application. The server transmits the configuration file to the mobile device for generation of a user interface of the launched application using the configuration file. The user interface includes a first display area using browser functionality of the mobile device to display one or more web page elements formatted by the server to appear as native to the mobile device. The user interface further includes a second display area having one or more interface elements that are native to an operating system of the mobile device. |
| US08918709B2 |
Object templates for data-driven applications
An object template system is described herein that allows an administrator of an IT management application to define templates that provide a streamlined mechanism for pre-populating IT objects with common values based on business logic and processes. The object template system addresses manipulation of objects both as part of a user interactive session as well as in programmatic workflows, while also allowing for referencing of existing objects to assume integrity of data. A metadata-driven schema allows for portable definitions of simple and complex extensible objects. The system validates these definitions against the extensible types that define the objects to ensure structural integrity. Users can then apply these definitions at runtime to both create and/or update simple and complex management objects. Thus, the object template system allows an administrator to define controlled processes for creating and modifying management objects within a flexible IT management application. |
| US08918708B2 |
Enhanced capture, management and distribution of live presentations
Techniques are provided for converting live presentations into electronic media and managing captured media assets for distribution. An exemplary system includes capture devices that capture media assets of live presentations comprising a session, including image data of sequentially presented visual aids accompanying the live presentations and audio data. Each capture device has an interface for real-time image data marking of the image data for identification of individual images and session marking of the image data for demarcation of individual presentations of the session. A centralized device processes the captured media assets and automatically divides the captured media assets into discrete files associated with the individual presentations based on the session markings. An administrative tool manages the processed media assets to produce modified presentations and enables modification of the visual aid images identified by the image data markings. A production device formats the modified presentations for distribution on distribution media. |
| US08918706B1 |
Methods and circuitry for performing parallel error checking
Integrated circuits with a memory array may include error checking circuitry for detecting, locating, and correcting soft errors in the memory array. The error checking circuitry may include row cyclic-redundancy-check (CRC) circuits each of which is operable to receive bits from respective groups of memory elements in the array and may also include an array CRC circuit. In one embodiment, the row CRC circuits compute CRC values based on bits stored in each of the memory elements in the respective groups of memory without the use of the array CRC circuit. After all of the columns have been read out, the array CRC circuit may be used to combine the CRC values from the different row CRC circuits. In another embodiment, the array CRC circuit may update the array CRC value each time the row CRC circuits update their CRC values in response to selecting a new column for readout. |
| US08918705B1 |
Error recovery by modifying soft information
One or more locations in a plurality of data bit sequences that do not satisfy parity and are associated with data bit sequences that are unable to be successfully error correction decoded are determined. Soft information associated with the determined locations is modified and error correction decoding using the modified soft information is performed. |
| US08918702B2 |
Semiconductor memory having non-standard form factor
A semiconductor memory chip including error correction circuitry configured to receive data words from an external device, each data word comprising a binary number of data bits, and configured to error encode each data word to form a corresponding coded word comprising a non-binary number of data bits including the data bits of the data word and a plurality of error correction code bits. At least one memory cell array is configured to receive and store the coded word and partitioned based on the non-binary number of bits of the coded word so as to have a non-binary number of wordlines and provide the memory chip with an aspect ratio other than a 2:1 aspect ratio. |
| US08918699B2 |
Non-volatile semiconductor storage apparatus
According to one embodiment, a non-volatile semiconductor storage apparatus is configured to decide determination periods respectively corresponding to each of management blocks based on rewrite count information items and a temperature, and to perform a determination processing for each of management blocks for each determination period. The determination processing includes determining whether first data read from a block in the blocks is normal based on the number of errors that are occurred in the first data. The apparatus is configured to perform a rewrite processing of rewriting the first data to second data which is error-corrected when it is determined that the first data is not normal. |
| US08918696B2 |
Implementation of LDPC selective decoding scheduling
A method for decoding data is disclosed. The method includes partitioning a low-density parity check (LDPC) matrix into a plurality of groups, each comprising one or more check node layers. The method further includes selecting one of the groups based at least in part on a cost function, the cost function based at least in part on information associated with a variable node, or information associated with a check node, or both. The method further includes performing LDPC layered decoding on the selected group. |
| US08918686B2 |
Determining data valid windows in a system and method for testing an integrated circuit device
Embodiments of a system and method for testing an integrated circuit device are described herein. Testing is complemented by a determination of characteristics of a data valid window that identifies components of a response data signal from a device under test where the data signal can always be expected to be stable. In at least one embodiment, the method comprises: for each individual data bit region of one or more data bit regions of a second data signal, sampling the second data signal at a plurality of points of the individual data bit region to produce a plurality of sampled values for the second data signal; for each sampled value of the plurality of sampled values, determining whether the sampled value matches an expected bit pattern value corresponding to the sampled value; determining one or more characteristics of the data valid window that defines conditions under which a valid sample can be expected to be taken; and outputting a test outcome based on one or more characteristics of the data valid window. In some embodiments, the second data signal may be sampled at the plurality of points of the individual data bit region concurrently. In some embodiments, the determination of whether each sampled value of the plurality of sampled values matches the expected bit pattern value may be performed concurrently for all of the plurality of sampled values. |
| US08918685B2 |
Test circuit, memory system, and test method of memory system
This technology relates to smoothly performing a test on a memory circuit having a high memory capacity while reducing the size of a test circuit. A test circuit according to the present invention includes a test execution unit configured to perform a test on a target test memory circuit, an internal storage unit configured to store data for the test execution unit, and a conversion setting unit configured to set a part of or the entire storage space of the target test memory circuit as an external storage unit for storing the data for the test execution unit. |
| US08918679B2 |
Apparatus and method for checking an error detection functionality of a data processor
An apparatus for checking an error detection functionality of a data processing circuit, comprising an arithmetic logic unit, which provides an output datum based on an input datum, and an error detection circuit that executes the error detection functionality and detects an error based on the output datum during correct execution of the error detection functionality, and generates an error signal, if an error is present, which comprises a control circuit that passes the error signal through to an error signal output in a normal operating mode, and blocks the error signal in a checking mode, does not let the error signal pass to the error signal output, influences the arithmetic logic unit, the error detection circuit or the input datum such that the error detection circuit detects an error during correct execution of the error detection functionality, and, if no error signal is received in response to influencing, outputs an alarm signal indicating an incorrect execution of the error detection functionality. |
| US08918678B2 |
Functional testing of a processor design
According to exemplary embodiments, a computer implemented method for functional testing of a processor design includes accessing a test template from a library of test templates, wherein the test template is configured to test a first selected function of the processor and inputting the test template to an automated test generation tool executed by a computer. The method further includes generating an instruction sequence based on the test template by the automated test generation tool and injecting an event instruction to the instruction sequence during the generating of the instruction sequence by the automated test generation tool, the injecting of the event instruction preserving testing of the first selected function of the processor and the event instruction being configured to test a second selected function of the processor. The method includes verifying a function of the processor by analyzing responses of the processor to the instruction sequence. |
| US08918674B2 |
Directory file system in a dispersed storage network
A method begins by a processing module receiving a data storage request, wherein the data storage request includes data and a data identifier (ID). The method continues with the processing module dispersed storage error encoding the data to produce a set of encoded data slices and determining a data dispersed storage network (DSN) address. The method continues with the processing module sending the set of encoded data slices to a DSN memory for storage at the data DSN address and updating a directory file with path information corresponding to the data ID and the data DSN address to produce an updated directory file. The method continues with the processing module dispersed storage error encoding the updated directory file to produce a set of encoded updated directory slices and sending the set of encoded updated directory slices to the DSN memory for storage at a directory DSN address. |
| US08918670B2 |
Active link verification for failover operations in a storage network
Systems and methods for active link verification for failover operations in a storage network are disclosed. An exemplary method includes issuing a command from a first port of a storage device to a local network device in the storage network. The method also includes receiving a response to the command at the first port of the storage device from the local network device in the storage network. The storage device fails over to a second port of the storage device if no response is received at the first port of the storage device. |
| US08918666B2 |
Apparatus for synchronizing a data handover between a first and second clock domain through FIFO buffering
An apparatus for synchronizing a data handover between a first clock domain and a second clock domain includes a calculator, a first-in-first-out storage, a synchronization pulse generator, a fill level information provider and a feedback path. The calculator is configured to provide a synchronization pulse cycle duration information describing a temporal position of synchronization pulses at a clock of the second clock domain. The first-in-first-out storage receives an input data value in synchronization with the first clock domain and provides an output data value in synchronization with the second clock domain in response to a current synchronization pulse. The fill level information provider provides fill level information describing a fill level of the FIFO. The feedback path feeds back the fill level information to the calculator to adjust the synchronization pulse cycle duration information. |
| US08918662B2 |
System timeout reset based on media detection
In embodiments of system timeout reset based on media detection, an electronic device includes an interface connection that couples the electronic device to a peripheral. A power manager application is implemented to timeout the interface connection if user interaction with the electronic device is not detected for a timeout duration. A media data monitor is implemented to detect audio data in an audio channel of the interface connection, and initiate a reset of the timeout duration responsive to the audio data being detected. Video can continue to be rendered by the peripheral if the audio data is detected to initiate the reset of the timeout duration. |
| US08918661B2 |
Method and apparatus for assigning storage resources to a power saving target storage pool based on either access frequency or power consumption
The present invention achieves appropriate power saving of the storage systems in accordance with the user's needs. In a storage system 1 including a storage apparatus 10 comprising a thin provisioning function and a management device 20, the management device 20 receives specification of a storage pool 93 as a power saving target and the specification of a power saving mode from a user and, when receiving the specification of prioritizing host access, selects the storage resource (RAID group 92) allocated to the storage pool 93 preferentially in ascending order of access frequency from the host computer 30 until a sum of a reduced amount of power saving exceeds the target value or, when receiving the specification of prioritizing power saving, selects the storage resources allocated to the storage pool 93 preferentially in descending order of power consumption until a sum of a reduced amount of power consumption exceeds a target value, and makes the power saving function of the selected storage resources operate. |
| US08918658B2 |
System and method for an interleaved multi-stage phase array voltage regulator
In accordance with the present disclosure, a system and method for an interleaved, multi-stage phase array voltage regulator is described. The interleaved, multi-stage phase array voltage regulator includes a first phase array with a plurality of first power stages and a second phase array with a plurality of second power stages. The interleaved, multi-stage phase array voltage regulator may also include a voltage control loop that at least partially controls a duty cycle of the first phase array and the second phase array. Also, the interleaved, multi-stage phase array voltage regulator may include a current control loop that at least partially controls which of the plurality of first power stages and second power stages are active. |
| US08918657B2 |
Systems, devices, and/or methods for managing energy usage
Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a system, machine, device, manufacture, circuit, and/or user interface adapted for, and/or a method and/or machine-readable medium comprising machine-implementable instructions for, activities that can comprise, based on a predicted non-zero future power requirement for performing one or more portions of an expected workload by a predetermined system, the predicted future power requirement based on a past power requirement for performing one or more portions of a known workload by the predetermined system, automatically causing a change from a first power state of the predetermined system to a second power state that does not violate a specification for performing the one or more portions of the expected workload. |
| US08918652B2 |
System and method for BIOS and controller communication
A system and method for BIOS and controller communication is provided herein. The system may include an information handling system that includes a central processing unit coupled to a memory. The memory may contain a basic input/output system (BIOS). The information handling systems may also include a controller coupled to a nonvolatile memory and a register coupled to the central processing unit and the controller. The controller may be operable to store a key in the nonvolatile memory; write the key to the register in response to a signal from the BIOS; receive a command from the BIOS; verify the command is from the BIOS using the key; and execute the command if the command is from the BIOS. |
| US08918648B2 |
Digital signature and key agreement schemes
A method is disclosed for performing key agreement to establish a shared key between correspondents and for generating a digital signature. The method comprises performing one of key agreement or signature generation, and using information generated in said one of key agreement or signature generation in the other of said key agreement or said signature generation. By doing this, computations and/or bandwidth can be saved. |
| US08918647B1 |
Authentication system
A device authentication system including one or more devices, child servers capable of communicating therewith, and a root server configured to enroll devices by: collecting device-specific tokens and creating a complete verification set (“CVS”) therefrom; creating a working verification set (“WVS”) by selecting a subset of the CVS; creating a limited verification set (“LVS”) by performing a derivation function on at least part of the WVS; and distributing part or all of the LVS to child servers. A device authentication system configured such that a PUF-containing device and a server communicating with the device can perform an extended BPV generation. A device authentication system that includes a device containing a PUF and is configured to perform error decoding on subsets of an authentication-related value multiple times. |
| US08918644B2 |
Imparting real-time priority-based network communications in an encrypted communication session
This specification describes technologies relating to imparting real-time priority-based network communications in an encrypted session. In general, aspects of the subject matter described can be embodied in methods that include establishing, based on cryptographic information in a reserved, random-data portion of a handshake communication, a session, receiving parameter values relating to a sub media stream, included in a header of a network communication, storing the parameter values, obtaining state information and a data payload included in a second network communication, identifying, from the state information, a purpose of the second network communication, and whether a header of the second network communication includes one or more new values corresponding to one or more of the parameters, updating one or more of the stored values based on the one or more new values, and processing the data payload based on the identified purpose and the stored parameter values. |
| US08918641B2 |
Dynamic platform reconfiguration by multi-tenant service providers
A manageability engine or adjunct processor on a computer platform may receive a request for activation and use of features embedded within that platform from a service provider authorized by the manageability engine's manufacturer. The manageability engine may initiate a request for authority through the service provider to a permit server. The permit server may provide, through the service provider, proof of the service provider's authority, together with a certificate identifying the service provider. Then the manageability engine may enable activation of the features on the platform coupled to the manageability engine, but only by the one particular service provider who has been authorized. |
| US08918640B2 |
Apparatus and method for using secure removable media (SRM) in digital rights management
An apparatus and a method for using a Secure Removable Media (SRM) in Digital Rights Management (DRM) are provided. The method for using the SRM in Digital Rights Management (DRM) includes determining, at a plurality of content service providers, an SRM usage rule and providing the determination to a trust authority using an eXtensible Markup Language (XML); receiving messages comprising the SRM usage rule from the content service providers and sending the messages to an apparatus together with an electronic signature; and receiving the messages comprising the SRM usage rule and changing an operation of the apparatus according to requirements of at least one content service provider. Thus, various content business models can be realized. |
| US08918628B2 |
Electronic device and method for starting applications in the electronic device
An electronic device sets run types and startup information for applications within the electronic device, where each run type is associated with a signal triggered by a hardware component of the electronic device and the startup information of each application comprises a run type and a starting time of the application. In response to detecting a signal triggered by a hardware component of the electronic device, and having an application having a run type associated with the signal, the electronic device further determines if a time of triggering the signal accords with a starting time of the application. The application is started if the time of triggering the signal accords with the starting time of the application. |
| US08918623B2 |
Implementing instruction set architectures with non-contiguous register file specifiers
There are provided methods and computer program products for implementing instruction set architectures with non-contiguous register file specifiers. A method for processing instruction code includes processing an instruction of an instruction set using a non-contiguous register specifier of a non-contiguous register specification. The instruction includes the non-contiguous register specifier. |
| US08918617B2 |
Defragmentation of storage class memory managed in extents
Embodiments relate to methods, systems and computer program products for defragmenting storage class memory by comparing a utilization rate of the storage class memory to a threshold value. If the utilization rate of the storage class memory is greater than the threshold value, the potentially wasted storage space is then compared to the combined storage capacity of the unclaimed extents of the storage class memory. If the potentially wasted storage space is greater than the combined storage capacity of the unclaimed extents of the storage class memory, a determination is made whether a defragmentation was recently performed. Based on determining that the defragmentation was not recently performed, or that it was recently performed and was productive, performing a defragmentation of the storage class memory. |
| US08918615B2 |
Information storage system including a plurality of storage systems that is managed using system and volume identification information and storage system management method for same
An embodiment of this invention is an information storage system comprising a plurality of storage systems connected to be able to communicate. Each of the plurality of storage systems includes default storage system identification information which is the same to the plurality of storage systems, common volume identification information for uniquely identifying volumes provided by the plurality of storage systems to a host computer among the plurality of storage systems, and a controller configured to return the default storage system identification information to the host computer in response to a request from the host computer and to process a read or write request to a volume accompanying the common volume identification information from the host computer. |
| US08918613B2 |
Storage apparatus and data management method for storage area allocation based on access frequency
Provided are a storage apparatus and data management method with which the usage ratio of each of the storage tiers is determined beforehand for each virtual volume and data can be managed by being migrated between storage tiers within a range of predetermined usage ratios.A storage apparatus 5, comprising storage devices 30 of a plurality of types of varying performance; and a controller 31 which manages each of storage areas provided by the storage devices 30 of a plurality of types by means of storage tiers ST of a plurality of different types respectively, and which assigns the storage areas in page units to virtual volumes VVOL from any storage tier among the storage tiers ST of a plurality of types, the controller 31 managing usage ratios of the storage tiers ST of a plurality of types and assigning the storage areas in page units to the virtual volumes VVOL based on the usage ratio managed. |
| US08918612B1 |
Method and apparatus for verifying memory contents
A system and method of verifying a content of a non-volatile reprogrammable memory communicatively coupled to a microprocessor is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of reading at least a portion of the data stored in the non-volatile reprogrammable memory via a second communication path secured by encryption, generating a computed integrity value according to at least a portion of the contents of the non-volatile reprogrammable memory, and reading an integrity value, and comparing the computed integrity value with the read integrity value. |
| US08918609B2 |
Storage apparatus and data management method to determine whether to migrate data from a first storage device to a second storage device based on an access frequency of a particular logical area
A storage apparatus for which a hierarchical data management system is adopted is designed so that when receiving a read request for a first logical area to which a first storage area of a first storage device in a virtual volume is allocated, whether or not to migrate data in a first storage area of the first storage device, to a storage area of a second storage device is decided according to an access frequency to the first logical area in synchronization with the read request. When it is decided that the data stored in the first storage area of the first storage device should be migrated to the storage area of the second storage device, the data is migrated to a second storage area of the second storage device and the second storage area thereof is allocated to the first logical area in the virtual volume. |
| US08918607B2 |
Data archiving using data compression of a flash copy
Embodiments of the disclosure relate to archiving data in a storage system. An exemplary embodiment comprises making a flash copy of data in a source volume, compressing data in the flash copy wherein each track of data is compressed into a set of data pages, and storing the compressed data pages in a target volume. Data extents for the target volume may be allocated from a pool of compressed data extents. After each stride worth of data is compressed and stored in the target volume, data may be destaged to avoid destage penalties. Data from the target volume may be decompressed from a flash copy of the target volume in a reverse process to restore each data track, when the archived data is needed. Data may be compressed and uncompressed using a Lempel-Ziv-Welch process. |
| US08918603B1 |
Storage of file archiving metadata
Computer file archiving systems and techniques are described. Various aspects include wide area high-availability file archiving, volume-level management capabilities of archiving systems, and methods and systems for storing file archiving metadata. The methods and systems described can be used individually or in combination. |
| US08918602B2 |
Dynamically altering time to live values in a data cache
A TTL value for a data object stored in-memory in a data grid is dynamically adjusted. A stale data tolerance policy is set. Low toleration for staleness would mean that eviction is certain, no matter the cost, and high toleration would mean that the TTL value would be set based on total cost. Metrics to report a cost to re-create and re-store the data object are calculated, and the TTL value is adjusted based on calculated metrics. Further factors, such as, cleanup time to evict data from a storage site, may be considered in the total cost. |
| US08918600B2 |
Methods for controlling host memory access with memory devices and systems
The present disclosure includes methods for controlling host memory access with a memory device, systems, host controllers and memory devices. One embodiment for controlling host memory access with a memory device includes receiving at least one command from a host and controlling execution of the at least one command with the memory device. |
| US08918599B2 |
Integrated storage platform system and method thereof
The present invention discloses an integrated storage platform system and a method thereof. The system comprises at least one adaption module respectively connecting with at least one storage space and each performing a plurality of adaption settings corresponding to one storage space; a storage administration module connecting with the adaption modules and processing the files of the storage spaces; and an access interface connecting the storage administration module, operated by a user to access the storage space through the storage administration module and the adaption module, and presenting access results to the user. The present invention establishes different adaption modules to enable the user to link to and access different types of storage spaces. |
| US08918597B2 |
Digital data inversion flag generator circuit
An integrated circuit includes an array of memory cells and a digital flag generator circuit configured to generate a data inversion flag based on whether a number of logical zero bits contained in a data word to be transmitted from the memory cells is greater than a threshold number. The digital flag generator circuit includes a first digital stage including a first plurality of binary logic circuits. Each of the binary logic circuits is configured to receive a subset of the data word. |
| US08918596B2 |
System and method for implementing NUMA-aware statistics counters
The systems and methods described herein may be used to implement scalable statistics counters suitable for use in systems that employ a NUMA style memory architecture. The counters may be implemented as data structures that include a count value portion and a node identifier portion. The counters may be accessible within transactions. The node identifier portion may identify a node on which a thread that most recently incremented the counter was executing or one on which a thread that has requested priority to increment the shared counter was executing. Threads executing on identified nodes may have higher priority to increment the counter than other threads. Threads executing on other nodes may delay their attempts to increment the counter, thus encouraging consecutive updates from threads on a single node. Impatient threads may attempt to update the node identifier portion or may update an anti-starvation variable to indicate a request for priority. |
| US08918595B2 |
Enforcing system intentions during memory scheduling
A memory controller receives memory access requests from a host terminal, the memory access requests from the host terminal including one or both of host read requests and host write requests. The memory controller generates memory access requests. Priorities are assigned to the memory access requests. The memory access requests are segregated to memory unit queues of at least one set of memory unit queues, the set of memory unit queues associated with a memory unit. Each memory access request is sent to the memory unit according to a priority and an assigned memory unit queue of the memory access request. |
| US08918589B2 |
Memory controller, memory system, semiconductor integrated circuit, and memory control method
A memory controller (101) according to this invention includes: a command generation unit (102) which generates access commands each including a physical address, based on an access request including a logical address indicating a rectangular area in image data; and a command issuance unit (105) which issues, to a memory (0), the access commands generated by the command generation unit (102). The command generation unit (102) includes a group determination unit (104) which determines a group to which a bank including data to be accessed belongs, based on the physical address corresponding to the access request. The command generation unit (102) generates a pair of a first and a second access commands which share a prefetch buffer between two banks belonging to different groups, when data to be accessed is continuous across two banks belonging to different groups. |
| US08918584B2 |
Refresh algorithm for memories
A method and apparatus for refreshing data in a flash memory device is disclosed. A counter is maintained for each memory block. When a memory block is erased, the counter for that erase block is set to a predetermined value while the remaining counters for other erase blocks are changed. When a memory block counter reaches a predetermined threshold value, the associated memory block is refreshed. |
| US08918583B2 |
Adapting behavior of solid-state drive using real usage model
An embodiment is a technique to adapt behavior of a solid-state drive (SSD) to extend lifespan of the SSD. Real environmental information is received from an environmental processor. The real environmental information corresponds to an environment of the SSD. A behavior model is selected based on a real environmental model and an internal data usage model. If a new behavior model is selected, the environmental processor is informed about the new behavior model. The environmental processor sends control commands to a power management module to apply new power policy to the SSD. Information on the new behavior model is made available for query. If current behavior model is selected, the current behavior model is maintained. |
| US08918582B2 |
Simulating EEPROM in virtual distributed switches
A virtual EEPROM driver is simulated for a virtual switch. A write function may be written to a shared memory device and designated as a virtual EEPROM driver. The virtual EEPROM driver may be duplicated into a non-volatile memory providing availability during a boot process. |
| US08918577B1 |
Three dimensional nonvolatile memory with variable block capacity
In a three-dimensional nonvolatile memory, physical levels in blocks are zoned and different zones store different numbers of bits per cell so that different blocks have different data capacities. Block data capacities are calculated and recorded, and may be updated as data capacities change. User data is mapped to blocks according to their respective data capacities. |
| US08918575B2 |
Method and system for securely programming OTP memory
A semiconductor chip may be operable to receive and copy an OTP programming vector presented by the semiconductor chip programming device into its memory after it boots up from the boot read-only memory (ROM). The OTP programming vector which is a computer program may comprise an encrypted data to be programmed into the one-time programmable (OTP) memory in the semiconductor chip and may be signed with an electronic signature. The semiconductor chip may be operable to authenticate the OTP programming vector in the memory. The authenticated OTP programming vector in the memory may be executed to decrypt the data and program the data in a random data format into the OTP memory and then report the status via one or more general purpose input/output (GPIO) pins on the semiconductor chip. |
| US08918572B2 |
Micro SD card adapter device for dynamically switching requests between a wireless transmission interface and an SD interface
A card adapter device includes a card slot for receiving a micro SD card therein; a SD interface for coupling electrically to a portable electronic device; a processing chip including a dynamic switch coupled electrically to the card slot and the SD interface, and a processor unit coupled electrically to the dynamic switch; and a wireless transmission/reception interface coupled electrically to the dynamic switch. Upon receiving a first signal from the wireless transmission/reception interface, the dynamic switch detects an operation mode of the SD interface and upon detecting that the SD interface is in an idle mode, the processor unit converts the dynamic switch to be coupled electrically to the wireless transmission/reception interface, thereby enabling the dynamic switch to transfer the first signal to the card slot, which, in turn, enables the wireless transmission/reception interface to access into the SD card. |
| US08918561B2 |
Hardware resource arbiter for logical partitions
A computer implemented method, data processing system, and apparatus for hardware resource arbitration in a data processing environment having a plurality of logical partitions. A hypervisor receives a request for a hardware resource from a first logical partition, wherein the request corresponds to an operation. The hypervisor determines the hardware resource is free from contention by a second logical partition. The hypervisor writes the hardware resource to a hardware resource pool data structure, as associated with the first logical partition, in response to a determination the hardware resource is free. The hypervisor presents the hardware resource to the first logical partition. The hypervisor determines that the operation is complete. The hypervisor release the hardware resource from a hardware resource pool, responsive to the determination that the operation is complete. |
| US08918558B2 |
Round robin priority selector
Method and structures for performing round robin priority selection receive an input vector into an input port. The methods and structures group the bits of the input vector into groups of bits and supply the groups of bits to round robin priority selectors. Then, the methods and structures simultaneously identify an individual group priority bit within each group of bits based on the starting bit location, using the round robin priority selectors. The methods and structures also choose, using the group selector, a round robin priority selector based on the starting bit location. The methods and structures then output, from the group selector to a multiplexor, the individual group priority bit of the selected round robin priority selector. Following this the method outputs, from the multiplexor, an output vector having a first value (e.g., 1) only in the individual group priority bit output by the group selector. |
| US08918553B2 |
Multithreaded programmable direct memory access engine
A mechanism programming a direct memory access engine operating as a multithreaded processor is provided. A plurality of programs is received from a host processor in a local memory associated with the direct memory access engine. A request is received in the direct memory access engine from the host processor indicating that the plurality of programs located in the local memory is to be executed. The direct memory access engine executes two or more of the plurality of programs without intervention by a host processor. As each of the two or more of the plurality of programs completes execution, the direct memory access engine sends a completion notification to the host processor that indicates that the program has completed execution. |
| US08918551B2 |
Storage system
A host I/F unit has a management table for managing an MPPK which is in-charge of the control of input/output processing for a storage area of an LDEV, and if a host computer transmits an input/output request for the LDEV, the host I/F unit transfers the input/output request to the MPPK which is in-charge of the input/output processing for the LDEV based on the management table, an MP of the MPPK performs the input/output processing based on the input/output request, and the MP of the MPPK also judges whether the MPPK that is in-charge of the input/output processing for the LDEV is to be changed, and sets the management table so that an MPPK which is different from the MPPK that is in-charge is to be in-charge of the input/output processing for the LDEV. |
| US08918549B2 |
Robust cable-type detection for USB power delivery
A system and method for detecting a USB cable-type. A USB PD device configured at a near end of a USB cable is configured to (i) receive and process a signal from a device at a far end of the USB cable to determine a power rating of the USB cable and (ii) adjustably establish power delivered by the first device to the USB cable as a function of the determined USB cable power rating. |
| US08918548B2 |
System method for accessory adapter with power supplying capabilities wherein power conductive element is either active or passive depending on placement of electrical contacts
An electronic device and an accessory are provided. The electronic device is installed on the accessory and identifies a type of the accessory. The electronic device includes a housing, a processor and an active sensing element. The processor and the active sensing element are disposed in the housing, and the active sensing element is electrically connected to the processor. The accessory includes a body and a passive sensing element, and the passive sensing element is disposed in the body. When the electronic device is installed on the accessory, the processor identifies the type of the accessory through that the active sensing element detects the passive sensing element, and the processor starts an operating mode relative to the accessory according to the type of the accessory. A method of operating an electronic device and an accessory is also provided. |
| US08918546B2 |
Apparatus and method for enabling digital and analog data communication over a data bus
An electronic apparatus such as an audio apparatus enables both digital and analog data to be communicated over a data bus such as a universal serial bus (USB) with a single low-cost connector such as a USB connector. According to an exemplary embodiment, the electronic apparatus includes a connector operative to couple the electronic apparatus to one of a digital device and an analog device. A controller is operative to determine whether the connector is coupled to the digital device or the analog device. A switch is operative to couple the connector to one of a digital element and an analog element responsive to the determination. |
| US08918544B2 |
Apparatus and method for configuration and operation of a remote-control system
A method for configuring a remote-control system includes querying via a bus a High Definition Multi-Media Interface (HDMI) display for an Extended Display Identification Data (EDID) for the HDMI display; receiving via the bus from the HDMI display the EDID for the HDMI display; and storing via a processor in a memory the EDID and a link between the EDID of the HDMI display a set of command codes configured for controlling the HDMI display. |
| US08918543B2 |
Changing device functionality using environment conditions
A computer implemented method, apparatus, and computer usable program code are provided for changing functionality for an electronic device. A set of signals is received from a set of sensors in the electronic device. Each signal in the set of signals includes a type of sensor from which the signal originated in the set of sensors and information detected by the set of sensors. An action is identified to be issued for the electronic device. The action is identified using the type of sensor and the information. The action is automatically initiated in the electronic device. The automatically initiated action changes the functionality for the electronic device. |
| US08918542B2 |
Facilitating transport mode data transfer between a channel subsystem and input/output devices
A computer program product is provided for performing an input/output (I/O) operation initiated by an I/O operation instruction at a host computer system configured for communication with a control unit. The computer program product includes a tangible storage medium readable by a processing circuit and storing instructions for execution by the processing circuit for performing: receiving, by the control unit, a transport mode command message from a channel subsystem of the host computer system, the command message include a command for data to be transferred between the host computer system and an I/O device controlled by the control unit; and sending a command retry message to the channel subsystem, the command retry message including a request that the command message be re-sent to the control unit and a reason code indicating a reason for the request. |
| US08918540B2 |
Unmanned air vehicle interoperability agent
A method of coordinating communications between a plurality of Unmanned Air Vehicles (UAVs) operating in connection with differing communication languages. A common language is provided which includes common language commands and common language data objects. Common language commands are communicated from a user to a plurality of UAVs through a UAV Interoperability Agent (UIA), which converts the common language commands to UAV-specific commands which can be understood by the specific UAV. Additionally, UAVs send data in a native platform format to the UIA, which converts the native platform data to common language format for collection and interpretation by the user. |
| US08918538B2 |
Automatic MEP provisioning in a link state controlled ethernet network
Ethernet OAM MEPs are automatically configured in a link state protocol controlled Ethernet network. A node operating in the link state protocol controlled Ethernet network receives a Link State PDU (LSP) containing a TLV having a MEP associated with the Ethernet MAC node ID of a second node in the link state protocol controlled Ethernet network, where the path between the first and second node includes a plurality of links. The node updates a forwarding table to indicate an association between the MEP ID and a Ethernet MAC node ID of the second node. An Ethernet OAM maintenance endpoint is produced in a link state protocol controlled Ethernet network by hashing a Sys-ID to produce a MEP; storing the MEP in a TLV; and forwarding the TLV over the link state protocol controlled Ethernet network in an LSP. |
| US08918536B1 |
Method and apparatus for optimizing computer network usage to prevent congestion
A method and apparatus for optimizing computer network bandwidth usage to prevent congestion is described. In one embodiment, the method comprises comparing a permissible bandwidth usage with a data transfer rate to produce a comparison result and adjusting the data transfer rate for performing at least one data transfer operation based on the comparison result. |
| US08918534B2 |
Writing data slices to ready and non-ready distributed storage units in a distributed storage network
A distributed storage network includes a distributed storage processing unit, which generates multiple data slices from a single data segment, and multiple different storage units to store the data slices. Each data slice is assigned to a particular storage unit for storage. The distributed storage processing unit determines which of the storage units are in a ready state, and sends data slices to the ready storage units. Data slices assigned to storage units that are not in a ready state are temporarily stored in a temporary memory, e.g. cache memory, until the storage unit becomes ready. If the intended storage unit remains in a non-ready status for too long, the slices stored in cache memory can be sent to a substitute storage unit, or discarded and reconstructed at a later time. |
| US08918531B2 |
Automated network device provisioning using dynamic host configuration protocol
In an embodiment, an electronic digital data packet router performs receiving a DHCP initiation message on a particular interface among a plurality of network interfaces,; modifying the DHCP initiation message by adding a particular DHCP option that signals a DHCP server to provide router configuration data, resulting in a modified DHCP initiation message; relaying the modified DHCP initiation message to the DHCP server; receiving, from the DHCP server, a DHCPOFFER message that comprises the particular DHCP option containing configuration data; configuring the router using the configuration data; relaying the DHCPOFFER message without the particular DHCP option on the particular interface toward another data packet router. |
| US08918530B2 |
Plug and play device redirection for remote systems
A remote access system connects a server computer with one or more client computers, where devices are connected locally at the client computers. The devices are recognized by the client computers and a device driver is provided for each connected and recognized device. A virtual driver is created at the server computer from information specific to the device, such that the virtual driver acts as an actual driver to an application on the server computer. The application through the virtual driver is able to recognize and provide commands to the connected device. |
| US08918524B2 |
System and method for flexible data transfer
A method and system for flexibly transferring data from one or more data sources to one or more data destinations within an information network where each of the one or more data sources have data in a particular source format and each of the one or more data destinations have data in the same or another particular destination format using a parameter database that includes parameters to control the transfer of data, a scheduler that initiates the transfer of data, and a data loader in communications with the parameter database and scheduler that, upon initiation by the scheduler, extracts data from the one or more data sources, manipulates the extracted source data into one or more destination formats associated with the one or more data destinations, and inserts the data into one or more data destinations according to the parameters within the parameter database. |
| US08918519B1 |
Delayed network interface selection
A user device may communicate registration information to a paging service system and receive a page message from the paging service system via out-of-band signaling. The page message may include a request to establish a communication session with a device, and out-of-band signaling may include a communication channel not dedicated for call session transmissions. The user device may select an in-band channel based on the page message, where the in-band channel comprises a communication channel dedicated for call session transmissions, and establish a communication session with the device using the in-band channel. |
| US08918517B2 |
Publish/subscribe mashups for social networks
Described herein is a mashing technology that facilitates mashup creation over a plurality of publish/subscribe social network data stream. These mashing techniques that are tailored to managing content from disparate social networks. As described herein, these techniques include creating and using a set of operations that facilitate the creation of “mashups” over multiple publish/subscribe social network data streams. |
| US08918513B2 |
Network resource deployment for cloud-based services
Techniques are described which simplify and/or automate many of the tasks associated with the configuration, deployment, and management of network resources to support cloud-based services. |
| US08918508B2 |
Method for transferring resource and method for providing information
Transmitting a resource and providing information in a resource in a Digital Rights Management (DRM) interoperable system includes: transmitting the resource in a transport session by using at least two handlers; and receiving from the handlers an event message including identification information of the transport session and information which indicates a transfer status of the resource. In addition, the information which indicates the transfer status of the resource may include: a resource index capable of identifying the resource; and information on a transfer status of a resource corresponding to the resource index. Accordingly, information related to transmission of resources can be easily provided in an event form. |
| US08918507B2 |
Dynamic grouping of enterprise assets
Embodiments relate to systems and methods for dynamic grouping of enterprise assets. A management engine can receive a query to interrogate a set of enterprise resources, such as servers deployed on a network. A user can transmit a query to the management engine, including a specification of attributes by which to group targeted machines to include in the query. The query can include at least a simple group query and a pivoted group query. A simple group query can include an identifier as a simple group expression, and the target can include attributes to match with resources. A pivoted group query can include compound terms or attributes to be used to group resources in the query, such as resources having a parent/child relationship or other hierarchical relationship. The processes of construction of queries and aggregation of resources identified by those queries can all be integrated by the management engine. |
| US08918504B2 |
Hardware based detection devices for detecting network traffic content and methods of using the same
A device for detecting network traffic content is provided. The device includes a first input port configured to receive one or more signatures, each of the one or more signatures associated with content desired to be detected, a second input port configured to receive data associated with network traffic content. The device also includes a processor configured to process the one or more signatures and the data to determine whether the network traffic content matches the content desired to be detected, and an output port configured to couple the device to a computer system of an intended recipient of the network traffic content. The output port passes the network traffic content to the computer system when it is determined that the network traffic content does not match the content desired to be detected. |
| US08918498B2 |
Data communication in an access network
A management device (100) for use in an access network (10, 19, 20, 30, 40, 100) including a plurality of data connections (18, 19, 20) between end user devices (10) and an aggregation transceiver device (20) where the connections (18, 19, 20) are aggregated for onward connection through the access network (20, 30,40), the access network storing in association with each data connection a Dynamic Line Management, DLM, profile which specifies a set of values for a plurality of parameters associated with the respective data connection, together with a stability level specifying a desired level of stability for the data connection. The device comprises means for receiving monitoring data specifying the stability of each respective data connection over a predetermined period of time; means for selecting a DLM profile to be applied to the connection in dependence on both the monitoring data and the stored stability level associated with the data connection; and means for requesting an OSS system of the access network to apply the selected profile to the data connection. |
| US08918495B2 |
Link tracking
Link tracking includes generating an electronic communication with links providing for a destination URL and a target URL. Upon selection of the active link, a destination site is accessed, based on the destination URL. In the destination site, the tracking information associated with the incoming data access request is parsed off. This tracking information may then be stored in a database or business warehouse for monitoring the response from the electronic communication. Also, a target site is determined based on the tracking information. The destination site thereupon redirects the access request to the target site, providing for the access to the target site to be to directed back to the user and not through the destination site. Therefore, the user may access the target web site based on the electronic communication and this activity can be tracked through the destination site. |
| US08918493B1 |
Methods and apparatus for automating service lifecycle management
Methods and apparatus to provide, in a cloud infrastructure environment having a compute layer, a network layer, a storage layer, and management layer, wherein the management layer has no knowledge of at least some of existing infrastructure services, selecting hosts containing host bus adapters and/or network adapters having unique identifiers, using the unique identifiers to analyze the storage layer for: storage groups having host initiators that match the unique identifiers of the host bus adaptors, and/or network file storage (NFS) exports exposed to the unique identifiers as client IP addresses. |
| US08918492B2 |
Field panel with embedded webserver and method of accessing the same
The systems, methods and devices disclosed herein provide for a field panel that includes a webserver. The field panel and webserver are arranged in communication with one or more automation components and/or field panels deployed for operation in connection with the building automation system. An information request may be directed to a master field panel for authorization. The master field panel may in turn query a node table containing address and/or communication information with the other field panels and/or automation components operable on the wired or wireless communication network. The information within the node table allows for direct communication to the other field panels and/or automation components operable on the network. In this way, authorized access to each of the field panels and/or automation components is achieved while any communications bottleneck at the master field panel may be significantly reduced or eliminated. |
| US08918489B2 |
Mobile device, storage medium, and method for automatically connecting the mobile device to server
In a method for automatically connecting a mobile device to a server, an update command is periodically sent to a first server wirelessly connected to the mobile device after the mobile device enters a sleep mode. The update command requires a network status of the first server. The mobile device is waken when the network status is not acquired within a predetermined time period. Alternate servers are searched for to generate a list of server names. A target server is selected from the list, and a connection command is sent to the target server for establishing a connection between the mobile device and the target server. Network setting information is acquired from the target server. The connection between the mobile device and the target server is established according to the network setting information. |
| US08918485B2 |
Digital downloading jukebox system with user-tailored music management, communications, and other tools
A digital downloading jukebox system including a mechanism for delivering custom services to a recognized user, including services for creating playlists, communicating with others, accessing other features, etc. is provided. In some exemplary embodiments, after a user is recognized, the jukebox system allows users to access a special front-end via an Internet-enabled device or on an actual jukebox. Then, the user may, for example, create playlists, share songs with friends, send messages to friends, and access other value-added content. Such a system preferably learns about networks of friends, and enables managers to send similar messages to regular customers and/or others known to the system. In some exemplary embodiments, changes via a first user interface on a first device are reflected on second user interface on other properly-configured devices. |
| US08918483B2 |
Method and system for synchronization and management of system activities with locally installed applications
The present invention will enable the user to follow a presentation while waiting for presentation files to download to the user's local machine. This invention provides a dynamic cloud based approach to local hand-off. A user will be able to view a cloud or other remotely-based (found via a URL) or screen-shared version of the presentation until source material has downloaded. |
| US08918480B2 |
Method, system, and device for the distribution of internet radio content
A network-enabled audio device that provides a display device that allows the user to select playlists of music much like a jukebox is disclosed. The user can compose playlists from disk files, CD's, Internet streaming audio broadcasts, online music sites, and other audio sources. The user can also select a desired Web broadcast from a list of available Web broadcasts. In addition, the user can play standard audio CD's and MP3 encoded CD's and have access to local AM/FM stations. Further, the software, the user controls, and the display in the network-enabled audio device are operably configured and connected such that the user can listen to playlists that include CD's and other audio sources just as the user would choose a playlist in a jukebox. The user accesses a server site via a PC and the Internet. From the server site, the user obtains a list of the devices in his or her Internet Personal Audio Network (IPAN) and what songs are on those devices. The IPAN includes an IPAN server, an IPAN client, and IPAN software stored on the network-enabled audio device. Thus, the network-enabled audio device provides people who are or are not comfortable with computers a way of taking music from various sources and putting it into one place for listening pleasure. In one embodiment, the Personal Computer (PC) is used to compose the playlists, but the user is able to listen to playlists and other audio sources without using the PC. |
| US08918478B2 |
Erasure coded storage aggregation in data centers
Embodiments of erasure coded storage aggregation are disclosed. The erasure coded storage aggregation includes storing a data file as erasure coded fragments in a plurality of nodes of one or more data centers. The erasure coded storage aggregation further includes monitoring an access frequency of the data file. Based on the comparison between the access frequency and a predetermined threshold, the data file is either reconstructed from the erasure coded fragments and stored in a storage node or retained as erasure coded fragments in the plurality of nodes of the one or more data centers. |
| US08918477B2 |
Inter-domain replication of service information
An automated conversion of service information between independent information technology (IT) management domains is performed using a federated gateway within each of the independent IT management domains that bridges the independent IT management domains. The automated conversion of service information allows at least one service consumer application executing within a first independent IT management domain to use a local service definition format to access at least one remote service provider application with a remote service interface defined using a different remote service definition format for execution in a second independent IT management domain. At least one service request is dynamically processed for the at least one remote service provider application via service provider application endpoint translation using the federated gateway within each of the independent IT management domains that bridges the independent IT management domains. |
| US08918475B2 |
Method of and computer program for managing one or more agricultural devices
A system and method for managing an agricultural device, including connecting the agricultural device to a network, collecting operational data relating to the agricultural device, granting an access right in respect of the collected operational data to an entity connected to the network, receiving data from the entity in response to the access right, and managing the agricultural device on the basis of the collected operational data and the data from the entity. The method may be implemented for managing multiple agricultural devices, and may be implemented in a computer readable medium. In one embodiment, the operational data relates to clinical mastitis detection. |
| US08918468B1 |
Processing social networking-based user input information to identify potential topics of interest
A method and apparatus of processing communications with end users are disclosed. One example method may include detecting a message or post on a website over the Internet that matches a monitoring company's keywords or rules and processing the message by parsing the message and performing a natural language interpretation of the message and processing the parsed message to determine the user's topic of interest. In response, the method may further provide generating a response to the message based on the user's requested objective and sending the response to the user acknowledging the user's topic of interest. Live agents may be notified to check the status of a message and continually override automated message responses to ensure the integrity of the responses. |
| US08918465B2 |
Authentication of service requests initiated from a social networking site
Described are computer-based methods and apparatuses, including computer program products, for authenticating user service requests from a social networking site. Data representing a selected message and an originator of the selected message is stored. Data representing a reply to the originator of the selected message is transmitted for posting at the social networking server, the reply including data that causes transmission of a service request to the server when actuated. Data representing the service request and a sender of the service request is received. Data representing a user profile of the sender of the service request is retrieved from the social networking server. One or more attributes of the user profile of the sender are compared against one or more attributes of the stored data representing the originator of the selected message in order to verify the one or more attributes of the user profile. |
| US08918464B1 |
Systems and methods for assigning conference attendees among multiple conference servers prior to a conference event
A method, device, system or article of manufacture is provided for social networking. In one embodiment, a method comprises hosting, by a master server, a plurality of client devices for a conference event, wherein each of the plurality of client devices is associated with a member of a community, wherein the master server is associated with a first computer program running on a first computer hardware system; identifying that a capacity of the master server is not sufficient to host the conference event; initiating, in response to identifying that the capacity of the master server is not sufficient for hosting the conference event, a secondary server, wherein the secondary server is associated with a second computer program running on a second computer hardware system; and assigning a portion of the plurality of client devices to the secondary server. |
| US08918458B2 |
Utilizing group statistics for groups of participants in a human-to-human collaborative tool
A method, system and apparatus for utilizing statistics in a human-to-human collaborative tool is provided. A method for utilizing group statistics for a group participating in a collaborative session can include collecting group statistics including a percentage of the participants in the set having a particular availability status for a grouped set of participants designated to participate in a collaborative session provided by a human-to-human collaborative tool executing in a computer system, generating a display of the percentage of the participants in the set having the particular availability status, and rendering the generated display of the percentage of the participants in the set having the particular availability status in a user interface in association with a hierarchical listing of participants in the collaborative session. |
| US08918455B2 |
Systems and algorithm for interfacing with a virtualized computing service over a network using a lightweight client
Systems and algorithm for providing a service to a client includes defining a virtual infrastructure in which a plurality of virtual machines are running on a virtualization layer with at least one of the virtual machine executing an image processor algorithm. The image processor algorithm is configured to access framebuffer data of a specific virtual machine that includes the service to be controlled, process the framebuffer data to generate image data packets with contextual information by scanning the framebuffer data to discern the image of the virtual machine display, evaluate the framebuffer data to identify contiguous areas of activity, extract data related to the contiguous areas of activity and package the extracted data into image data packets. The image data packets are transmitted to the client for presenting on a display device of the client. |
| US08918454B2 |
Managing rule sets as web services
Rule sets are managed as a web service. A web service request having at least a body and an endpoint address is received from a client. The endpoint address includes a service description parameter and a parameter identifying a path to a given rule set in a rule set. The body of the web service request is parsed to determine whether the body identifies a first type of method or a second type of method. If a first type of method is identified, a service description file is dynamically generated in a format specified by the service description parameter in the web service request. The service description file is based on the rule set path, information from the rule set database and model data. If a second type of method is identified, the identified rule set is executed. The first type of method may be a GET method while the second type of method may be a POST method. |
| US08918451B2 |
System and method for providing service component architecture (SCA) data transformation
A system and method for providing service component architecture (SCA) data transformation in a distributed transaction processing environment. In accordance with an embodiment, an SCA software component can be used to provide a service to transform data and requests from a service-oriented data format to a transactional data format, such as a Tuxedo or other format. In accordance with an embodiment, a configuration file, such as a schema file, is used to define the transformation between the service-oriented and transactional data formats. The SCA software components operate to communicate with a transaction component, perform the data transformation automatically, and support a transaction process on the transaction component. |
| US08918449B2 |
Terminal user-interface client for managing multiple servers in hybrid cloud environment
In one exemplary embodiment, a terminal user-interface (UI) client is configured to accept a user-scripted command from a user. The user-scripted command includes an operating system command or a user-customized command. The user-scripted command is passed to a distributed server management platform. A node tag input by a user is accepted. The node tag identifies at least one agent node in a server in the cloud-computing platform to execute the user-scripted command. A distributed server management platform that passes the user-scripted command to a group broker of an agent group comprising the agent node identified by the node tag, and to pass a command result to the terminal UI. A group broker to pass the user-scripted command to the agent node, and to pass a command result from the agent node to the distributed server management platform. |
| US08918445B2 |
Circuit which performs split precision, signed/unsigned, fixed and floating point, real and complex multiplication
An integrated multiplier circuit that operates on a variety of data formats including integer fixed point, signed or unsigned, real or complex, 8 bit, 16 bit or 32 bit as well as floating point data that may be single precision real, single precision complex or double precision. The circuit uses a single set of multiplier arrays to perform 16×16, 32×32 and 64×64 multiplies, 32×32 and 64×64 complex multiplies, 32×32 and 64×64 complex multiplies with one operand conjugated. |
| US08918443B2 |
Reducing bias in hardware generated random numbers
A random number generator of a processor comprises a whitener for reducing the bias in random numbers generated by the random number generator. The whitener receives a random number of a first length read by an array of latches with inputs from an array of oscillators. The whitener dynamically creates a mask of the first length based on a parity of at least one previous random number read from the array of latches during at least one cycle prior to reading the random number. The whitener applies a compare operation between the random number and the mask to generate a whitened random number of the first length, with reduced bias, without reducing randomness. |
| US08918441B2 |
NAF conversion apparatus
According to one embodiment, a NAF conversion apparatus which converts a binary representation of an integer into a w-NAF redundant binary representation includes an acceptance device, a storage device, a shift register, and an update device. The acceptance device accepts the binary representation of the integer for every bit from lower bits. The storage device stores a state value expressed by 1 bit. The shift register stores a state value expressed by (w−1) bits. The update device determines a state of the storage device and a state of the (w−1)-bit shift register at next time, and determines a w-bit parallel output at current time by referring to a 1-bit value accepted by the acceptance device, the state value in the storage device, and the state value in the (w−1)-bit shift register. |
| US08918440B2 |
Data decompression with extra precision
Methods and systems for decompressing data are described. The relative magnitudes of a first value and a second value are compared. The first value and the second value represent respective endpoints of a range of values. The first value and the second value each have N bits of precision. Either the first or second value is selected, based on the result of the comparison. The selected value is scaled to produce a third value having N+1 bits of precision. A specified bit value is appended as the least significant bit of the other (non-selected) value to produce a fourth value having N+1 bits of precision. |
| US08918438B2 |
Management system, management apparatus, and management method for electronic device
A collection unit collects attribute information of each of a plurality of electronic devices, and registers the collected attribute information in mounted device information correspondingly to a mounting position of the electronic device in a management system. A determination unit refers to device definition information in which attribute information of each electronic device mounted on the management system is registered correspondingly to a mounting position, determines as a comparison object position a mounting position in which the attribute information registered in the mounted device information is not matched with the attribute information registered in the device definition information and, when a plurality of comparison object positions are present, determines whether the attribute information of the mounted device information corresponding to one comparison object position is matched with the attribute information of the device definition information corresponding to another comparison object position. |
| US08918429B2 |
Database versioning system
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for identifying one or more rows in a relational database that have each been modified since a first point in time, wherein each of the rows is associated with a respective table in the relational database; for each of the identified rows, updating a respective file in an external representation of the table associated with the row to reflect the modification to the row wherein the respective file is not stored in the database; and creating a first version of the relational database in a version control system using the external representation including one or more of the updated files, wherein the first version of the database comprises one or more files in the version control system. |
| US08918428B2 |
Systems and methods for audio asset storage and management
Systems and methods for providing audio asset information using an audio asset information storage system are provided. The storage system includes a data store containing video program information associated with a video program that embeds the known audio asset. The storage system receives a number of requests to identify the known audio asset and stores an indication of each request within the data store. The storage system provides at least a portion of audio asset information associated with the known audio asset to user equipment. |
| US08918424B2 |
Managing homeowner association messages
For managing homeowner association messages, a communication module receives a message. A storage module stores the message. The communication module communicates the message to accounts through at least one of a plurality of communication channels in accordance with structured message restrictions. The structured message restrictions comprise full access, partial access, and no access restrictions. Each message comprises a message category of a plurality of message categories comprising a homeowner message, a confidential board member message, and a board member message. Each account is classified with an account class of a plurality of account classes. The account classes comprise a homeowner class, a board member class, and a property manager class. The structured message restrictions permit full access, partial access, or no access to the message for each account. |
| US08918423B1 |
Enterprise dynamic access control system and method using an object selection profile
A system and method are provided for determining object access to a resource by comparing reference inputs from an object profile, an object selection profile, an environmental status, and/or a complex outcome to one or more resource profile reference conditions contained in one or more resource profiles. The object profile reference input comparison to the resource profile reference conditions is based on a plurality of object profile categories each including a plurality of hierarchically linked object profile values. The object profile represents no more than one object profile value for each object profile category. The object selection profile reference input comparison to the resource profile reference conditions is based on a plurality of object selection profile categories each including a plurality of hierarchically linked object selection profile values. The object selection profile includes one or more object selection profile values for a particular object selection profile category. |
| US08918413B2 |
Method and system for cross-referencing and deduplicating objects in multiple map building blocks
A system and method for providing a digital map database wherein multiple instances of geocoded objects pertaining to points of interest (POI) and/or three-dimensional (3D) objects contained within one or more building blocks are compared to find undesirable duplicate geocoded objects. Cross-referencing information is stored and preference information about which geocoded object or object property/attribute should be used is assessed to determine priority for selection or presentation on the display screen (12) of a navigation device (10) or other suitable computing device. Cross-references can be pre-calculated at compile time or calculated on-the-fly by the navigation application at run time and may be persistently stored in dedicated data structures. When duplicate geocoded objects are found, only the most accurate information or a super set of (attribute) information is used by applications or presented to a user thereby preventing confusion. |
| US08918412B1 |
Query proxy system for client-specified models
A system for translating a query expression for a client-specified model (CSM) to a plurality of query expressions compatible with the object model(s) for a plurality of source systems. The source systems comprise a plurality of databases. The databases comprise source information and X sets of response data. The source information comprises mapping metadata and object model metadata. The X sets of response data is data response to a client query. The client comprises client-specified mapping metadata, a CSM, and a query proxy. The query proxy comprises an import module, a client interface module, and a translator module. The import module imports the source information from the plurality of source systems and determines the mapping metadata and the object model metadata. The client interface module receives the CSM, the client-specified mapping metadata, and a query from a client. The translator module parses the query expression and translates a plurality of query expressions compatible with the object model(s) for the plurality of source systems. |
| US08918409B2 |
System and method for determining affinity profiles for research, marketing, and recommendation systems
User affinity profiles are defined based upon analyzing the selection of users when they build personal expressions. A system is configured to display a plurality of user-selectable objects on each user system. Each user then selects and arranges the user-selectable objects to create a personal expression. The system analyzes the user selections across a number of personal expressions and defines the user affinity profiles based upon the analysis. The user affinity profiles can be useful for various purposes such recommending products, optimizing product packaging, and generating content that is meaningful to groups of users. |
| US08918402B2 |
Method of bibliographic field normalization
A method of normalizing a bibliographic field of a structured field relational database is disclosed. The method comprises weighting potential candidate records according to the value in the corresponding field in the records, together with other related fields in the candidate record and other related records in the database. Each of the candidate records is successively evaluated and compared against an acceptable threshold. If the weight exceeds the threshold, the candidate record is returned from the query. Otherwise, a new entry in the database is created. Optionally, before creating such a new entry, the highest weighted candidate record may be compared against a minimally acceptable threshold and if the weight exceeds such lower threshold, the candidate is returned from the query. |
| US08918393B2 |
Identifying a set of candidate entities for an identity record
Systems, methods, and computer program products are disclosed for matching an inbound identity record to existing entities. A composite generic key may be generated from multiple entity resolution (ER) candidate-building keys determined to be generic keys. A query may be generated based on the composite generic key and executed to retrieve candidate entities for an inbound identity record. |
| US08918392B1 |
Data storage mapping and management
A storage controller is implemented for controlling a storage system. The storage controller may be implemented using a distributed computer system and may include components for servicing client data requests based on the characteristics of the distributed computer system, the client, or the data requests. The storage controller is scalable independently of the storage system it controls. All components of the storage controller, as well as the client, may be virtual or hardware-based instances of a distributed computer system. |
| US08918389B2 |
Dynamically altered search assistance
Search-engine software displays a group of search results in a graphical user interface (GUI) for a search engine. The search-engine software captures positive feedback and negative feedback as to the search results from a user. Then the search-engine software determines a collective aboutness signature for the search results associated with the positive feedback and a collective aboutness signature for search results associated with the negative feedback. The search-engine software obtains a score of similarity to each of the collective aboutness signatures for a representation of each query suggestion in a group of query suggestions. Then the search-engine software separates the scored query suggestions into two or more groups, based on the similarity scores, and displays query suggestions from the groups in the GUI. |
| US08918387B1 |
Systems and methods for classifying applications configured for cloud-based platforms
A computer-implemented method for classifying applications configured for cloud-based platforms may include 1) identifying an online platform that hosts an online service and that is capable of hosting a plurality of third-party applications integrated with the online service and configured to operate on the online platform, 2) identifying at least one third-party application that is integrated with the online service and configured to operate on the online platform, 3) identifying metadata describing at least one characteristic of the third-party application, and 4) generating a classification of the third-party application based at least in part on the characteristic. Various other methods, systems, and computer-readable media are also disclosed. |
| US08918384B2 |
Decentralized web annotation
Annotations relating to web sites may be based on blog posts relating to the web sites. A user viewing a web site may concurrently view related blog posts about the web site. More particularly, in one implementation, a method includes detecting when a user visits a web page and receiving, in response to the detection, a group of blog posts that link to the web page. The method further includes displaying an indication of the group of blog posts to the user while the user is visiting the web site. |
| US08918381B1 |
Selection criteria diversification
Methods, systems, and apparatus for diversifying selection criteria. An example method includes accessing a first set of selection criteria for a content item; selecting, based on the first set of selection criteria, a second set of selection criteria, the second set of selection criteria being a proper subset of the first set of selection criteria, the selection of each of the criteria in the second set comprising: determining a collective performance measure based on criteria that have been selected from the first set of selection criteria for inclusion in the second set of selection criteria, determining, for each criterion that has not been selected from the first set, a performance contribution to the collective performance measure, and selecting from the first set a selection criterion with the highest performance contribution relative to the performance contributions of other selection criteria that have not been selected for inclusion in the second set. |
| US08918380B2 |
Methods, systems and devices for performing incremental updates of partial databases
Methods, systems and devices for performing incremental updates of a partial database stored on a client device from a computer system containing the database of which the partial database is a subset. A first database record which has been inserted into, deleted from or changed in the server database as a result of a database operation is identified in order to perform a corresponding operation on the client device. In addition, a second record that has not been inserted, deleted or changed, but that is related to the first record through a constraint, is identified. The second record is inserted into or deleted from the partial database through a database operation performed on the client device such that the constraint is fulfilled in the partial database. Identification of records is based on database logs and on the structured relationship between record types. |
| US08918379B1 |
Method and system for managing versioned structured documents in a database
A method for providing an index for a searching a versioned structured document includes providing a first plurality of vNodes representing a plurality of objects of a first version of a structured document. Each vNode includes versioning information associated with the first version of the structured document and collectively, the vNodes graphically represent the first version of the structured document in a vDOM node tree. In an embodiment, a vIndex key associated with a first vNode of the first plurality of vNodes is generated. The vIndex key includes index information based on at least a portion of the versioning information of the first vNode. Once generated, the vIndex key associated with the first vNode is stored in a vIndex associated with the structured document. |
| US08918378B1 |
Cloning using an extent-based architecture
An extent-based storage architecture is implemented by a storage server. The storage server generates a new extent identifier for cloning a source extent identified by a source extent identifier and stored at a source data structure that includes a length value providing a length of the source extent, an offset value and a reference count value that provides a number of data containers that reference the source extent identifier. The storage server updates a data structure for a cloned version of the data container for storing the new extent identifier that points to the source extent identifier and includes an extent length value and offset value different from length value and the offset value of the source data structure. |
| US08918367B2 |
Two phase commit emulation for non distributed transactions
A method is described that comprises executing a non distributed transaction by reading persistent data from a database and performing executions with the persistent data. A prepare command is sent to the database after a change to be made to the persistent data as a consequence of the non distributed transaction's execution is confirmed. A commit command is sent to the database to cause the database to commit the change to the database. |
| US08918365B2 |
Dedicating disks to reading or writing
A method of increasing the speed of disk reading and writing operations in a database by using nodes of memory and processors where the memory stores programs to be executed by the processors. The data in the database is separated into one or more buckets and at least two replicas of each bucket of data are stored in different storage devices of the nodes. Determining a subset of storage devices that will be dedicated to writing, while keeping at least one replica of each bucket dedicated to reading and dedicating at least a substantial portion of the remaining storage devices to reading. |
| US08918364B1 |
Online mirror state transitioning in databases
In a mirrored database system, good quality of service and high availability is afforded by minimizing the time required for suspension of operations to transition between mirror states, and by keeping track of changes made to a primary database while the mirror database was out of communications so that a later mirror resynchronization process can quickly catch up the mirror database by making only the lost changes. |
| US08918362B2 |
Replication processes in a distributed storage environment
Embodiments of the present invention relate to systems, methods, and computer storage media for replicating data in a distributed computing environment utilizing a combination of replication methodologies. A full-object replication may be utilized to replicate a full state of an object from a primary data store to a secondary data store. A checkpoint created after initiating the full-object replication may be parsed to identify changes to the object that have been entered since initiating the full-object replication. This replication process is referred to as a delta-checkpoint replication methodology. Additionally, in an embodiment, a log-based replication methodology may be utilized. The log-based replication may communicate data from a log of the primary data store to the secondary data store. It is also contemplated in an exemplary embodiment that when the log-based replication fails to maintain a throughput threshold, one of the other replication methodologies may be initiated, at least temporarily. |
| US08918360B2 |
Machine change history tracking process for ERP applications
An embodiment of the invention provides a method for recording, managing and tracking changes to objects in a computer system. A master record is created for the computer system; and, a transactional record is created for an object in the computer system. The master record includes the current status of the object and the current status for all objects associated to the object. The transactional record is updated in the electronic database; and, the master record is updated when the transactional record is updated. The master record is linked to all of the transactional records of the objects associated to the object with the processor. The master record is updated with the processor when a transactional record of the objects associated to the object is updated or added. |
| US08918359B2 |
System and method for data mining and security policy management
A method is provided in one example and includes generating a query for a database for information stored in the database. The information relates to data discovered through a capture system. The method further includes generating an Online Analytical Processing (OLAP) element to represent information received from the query. A rule based on the OLAP element is generated and the rule affects data management for one or more documents that satisfy the rule. In more specific embodiments, the method further includes generating a capture rule that defines items the capture system should capture. The method also includes generating a discovery rule that defines objects the capture system should register. In still other embodiments, the method includes developing a policy based on the rule, where the policy identifies how one or more documents are permitted to traverse a network. |
| US08918355B2 |
Determining a meal and/or meal plan
Methods, systems, apparatus and computer-readable mediums, storing sets of instructions, provide for determining at least one meal combination including receiving, at a server, information identifying at least one food item; accessing, from a storage device, a set of meal combination rules; applying, at the server, the accessed set of meal combination rules to a plurality of food items; determining at least one meal combination; and transmitting the determined at least one meal combination from the server to a computing device for display. Alternatively, for generating a meal plan, including accessing a set of meal plan rules; applying the set of meal plan rules to a plurality of food items; determining a plurality of meal combinations; and transmitting the determined plurality of meal combinations from a server device to a computing device. |
| US08918353B2 |
Methods and systems for feature extraction
A method and system for extracting feature utilizing an AHaH module (Anti-Hebbian and Hebbian). A sparse input data stream can be presented to a synaptic matrix of a collection of AHaH nodes associated with the AHaH module. The AHaH module operates an AHaH plasticity rule via an evaluate phase and a feedback phase cycle. A bias input line can be modulated such that a bias weight do not receive a Hebbian portion of the weight update during the feedback phase in order to prevent occupation of a null state. The input space can be bifurcated when the AHaH nodes fall randomly into an attractor state. The output of the AHaH module that forms a stable bit pattern can then be provided as an input to a content-addressable memory for generating a maximally efficient binary label. |
| US08918344B2 |
Habituation-compensated library of affective response
Generating a habituation-compensated library comprising a user's expected response to tokens representing stimuli that influence the user's affective state, the method comprising: receiving samples comprising temporal windows of token instances to which the user was exposed, wherein the token instances have overlapping instantiation periods; the samples further comprise data on previous instantiations of at least one of the token instances from the temporal windows; receiving target values corresponding to the temporal windows of token instances; the target values represent the user's response to the token instances from the temporal windows of token instances; training a machine learning-based user response model using the samples, the data on previous instantiations, and the corresponding target values; and analyzing the machine learning-based user response model to generate the habituation-compensated library, which accounts for the influence of the user's previous exposure to tokens. |
| US08918339B2 |
Associating an indication of user emotional reaction with content items presented by a social networking system
A social networking system user may associate an emoji representing the user's emotional reaction with a content item presented by the social networking system. The user is presented with one or more emoji maintained by the social networking system and selects an emoji for associating with the content item. If certain emoji are selected, the social networking system prompts the user for compensation or requests compensation from an entity associated with the selected emoji. The selected emoji is associated with the content item and a connection, or other information, between the user and the object identifying the selected emoji is stored by the social networking system. The selected emoji may be displayed with the content item to the user and to other users connected to the user. |
| US08918338B1 |
Method and system for the issuance of instant credit
A method and system for the issuance of Instant Credit has an Instant Credit engine that performs instantaneous analysis. The method and system can operate along side existing “batch” processes. In addition, the method and system offer various channels of distribution for the Instant Credit products. With the present invention, Instant Credit and other Instant services (e.g., instant account balance transfers, etc.) can be obtained via, Internet, point-of-sale and other distribution channels. The present system also enables highly dynamic product offerings, which can be generated “instantaneously” based on a variety of factors, such as, for example, the channels of distribution (e.g., telephone or Internet), the product sought and/or even the particular individual and/or entity that is applying for a line of credit. |
| US08918337B2 |
Management of business processes
First business process data obtained from a first trading participant includes a set of transaction messages having a first data format in accordance with a first protocol for conducting business transactions used by the first trading participant. A virtual trading participant receives fictitious business process data from the first trading participant and acknowledging the fictitious business process data and replying to the first trading participant that the fictitious business process data has been acknowledged. Operational characteristics and a connectivity of a currently trading participant connected to a process management platform accessible via an interconnection fabric are tested, by utilizing the virtual trading participant to determine if the data defining individual business processes is in a uniform format understood by a process management platform. The virtual trading participant is utilized to ensure compatibility with an identified version of the uniform format. |
| US08918336B2 |
Energy transaction broker for brokering electric vehicle charging transactions
A computer implemented method, apparatus, and computer usable program code for brokering a charging process of an electric vehicle. In one embodiment, a process extracts event data associated with the charging process from a charge notification in response to receiving the charge notification indicating that the charging process of the electric vehicle is complete. The event data may include, but is not limited to, duration of the charging process, quantity of electricity transferred, or rate at which electricity was transferred during the charging process. The process then identifies, from an energy transaction plan, a set of payees participating in the charging process. Thereafter, the process disburses a payment owed to the set of payees. An amount of the payment is calculated using payment terms in profiles of the set of payees. The payment includes funds from at least one of a payer fund and an incentive fund. |
| US08918334B2 |
Camera as a vehicle to identify a merchant access device
Systems and methods of conducting a payment transaction using a mobile phone having a camera. The systems and methods receive an image of a merchant access device and optionally location data from a mobile device of a user engaged in the transaction. The systems and methods also receive transaction information associated with the transaction and account information associated with an account of the user. The systems and methods use the information to authorize or decline the transaction. |
| US08918332B2 |
Media play optimization
Systems, methods, and a user interface for automatically scheduling a media play is disclosed. The user can specify criteria for play of the media play, including times, stations, and/or external criteria such as a weather condition or the occurrence of an event. Information relevant to the entered criteria is received and assessed against the criteria to determine if the criteria are met. Responsive to the received information meeting the criteria for play of the media play, an accessor accesses the media play inventory and inserts the media play into a media feed. |
| US08918327B2 |
Customer service status analysis device, customer service status analysis system and customer service status analysis method
A customer service status analysis device includes: a first time obtaining unit configured to detect occurrence of a prescribed customer service event and obtain an occurrence time of the prescribed customer service event based on image information provided by an imaging device capturing images of an interior of a commercial establishment; a second time obtaining unit configured to obtain an occurrence time of a prescribed customer service event from a sales information management device; a time period information obtaining unit configured to obtain time period information relating to customer service based on the occurrence time of the customer service event obtained by the first time obtaining unit and the occurrence time of the customer service event obtained by the second time obtaining unit; and an output information generation unit configured to generate output information representing a result of analysis based on the time period information. |
| US08918321B2 |
System and method for enhancing speech recognition accuracy
Disclosed herein are systems, computer-implemented methods, and computer-readable media for enhancing speech recognition accuracy. The method includes dividing a system dialog turn into segments based on timing of probable user responses, generating a weighted grammar for each segment, exclusively activating the weighted grammar generated for a current segment of the dialog turn during the current segment of the dialog turn, and recognizing user speech received during the current segment using the activated weighted grammar generated for the current segment. The method can further include assigning probability to the weighted grammar based on historical user responses and activating each weighted grammar is based on the assigned probability. Weighted grammars can be generated based on a user profile. A weighted grammar can be generated for two or more segments. Exclusively activating each weighted grammar can include a transition period blending the previously activated grammar and the grammar to be activated. |
| US08918320B2 |
Methods, apparatuses and computer program products for joint use of speech and text-based features for sentiment detection
An apparatus for generating a review based in part on detected sentiment may include a processor and memory storing executable computer code causing the apparatus to at least perform operations including determining a location(s) of the apparatus and a time(s) that the location(s) was determined responsive to capturing voice data of speech content associated with spoken reviews of entities. The computer program code may further cause the apparatus to analyze textual and acoustic data corresponding to the voice data to detect whether the textual or acoustic data includes words indicating a sentiment(s) of a user speaking the speech content. The computer program code may further cause the apparatus to generate a review of an entity corresponding to a spoken review(s) based on assigning a predefined sentiment to a word(s) responsive to detecting that the word indicates the sentiment of the user. Corresponding methods and computer program products are also provided. |
| US08918319B2 |
Speech recognition device and speech recognition method using space-frequency spectrum
In a speech recognition device and a speech recognition method, a key phrase containing at least one key word is received. The speech recognition method comprises steps: receiving a sound source signal of a key word and generating a plurality of audio signals; transforming the audio signals into a plurality of frequency signals; receiving the frequency signals to obtain a space-frequency spectrum and an angular estimation value thereof; receiving the space-frequency spectrum to define and output at least one spatial eigenparameter, and using the angular estimation value and the frequency signals to perform spotting and evaluation and outputting a Bhattacharyya distance; and receiving the spatial eigenparameter and the Bhattacharyya distance and using corresponding thresholds to determine correctness of the key phrase. Thereby this invention robustly achieves high speech recognition rate under very low SNR conditions. |
| US08918317B2 |
Decoding-time prediction of non-verbalized tokens
Non-verbalized tokens, such as punctuation, are automatically predicted and inserted into a transcription of speech in which the tokens were not explicitly verbalized. Token prediction may be integrated with speech decoding, rather than performed as a post-process to speech decoding. |
| US08918316B2 |
Content identification system
The content of a media program is recognized by analyzing its audio content to extract therefrom prescribed features, which are compared to a database of features associated with identified content. The identity of the content within the database that has features that most closely match the features of the media program being played is supplied as the identity of the program being played. The features are extracted from a frequency domain version of the media program by a) filtering the coefficients to reduce their number, e.g., using triangular filters; b) grouping a number of consecutive outputs of triangular filters into segments; and c) selecting those segments that meet prescribed criteria, such as those segments that have the largest minimum segment energy with prescribed constraints that prevent the segments from being too close to each other. The triangular filters may be log-spaced and their output may be normalized. |
| US08918309B2 |
Deep model statistics method for machine translation
In one embodiment, the invention provides a method for machine translation of a source document in an input language to a target document in an output language, comprising generating translation options corresponding to at least portions of each sentence in the input language; and selecting a translation option for the sentence based on statistics associated with the translation options. |
| US08918305B2 |
Distributed computation of multiple-body interactions using local-coordinate reference frames
Distributed computation of multiple body interactions in a region uses multiple processing modules, where each of the processing modules is associated with a respective corresponding portion of the region. In some examples, the approach includes establishing multiple coordinate frames of reference, each processing module corresponding to one the coordinate frames of reference. In some examples, efficient techniques are used for selecting elements for computation of interactions according at least in part to a separation-based criterion. |
| US08918301B2 |
Motor condition inspection method and motor characteristic inspecting device
A motor characteristic inspecting device is capable of inspecting the condition of a motor installed in an apparatus without removing the motor from the apparatus. The motor characteristic inspecting device includes: a vector variation computing section configured to compute a voltage vector variation amount when a mover of a three-phase motor is moved by an external force; a speed variation detecting section configured to detect a speed variation amount; a constant computing section configured to compute a counter electromotive force constant; and a result display section. Armature windings of the motor installed in the apparatus and the motor characteristic inspecting device are electrically connected with power supply lines disconnected from the motor. An external force is applied to the mover of the motor. The condition of the motor is determined based on the computed result displayed on the result display section of the motor characteristic inspecting device. |
| US08918299B2 |
System and method for maximizing a battery pack total energy metric
A system and method for maximizing a battery pack total energy metric indicative of a total energy of a battery pack is provided. The method includes receiving battery cell charge capacity estimates for all cells in the battery pack, composing battery pack configurations comprising subsets of the totality of battery cells, evaluating a battery pack energy metric for every battery pack configuration that is composed, selecting the battery pack configuration that has the maximum battery pack energy metric, and storing values indicative of the selected battery pack configuration in a memory. |
| US08918298B2 |
Solar cell evaluation device and solar cell evaluation method
In a solar cell evaluation device 1, a spectral sensitivity P(λ) of a solar cell 2, which is a measurement object, is measured in advance. When the solar cell 2 is evaluated, a spectral irradiance L (λ) of illumination light is measured, generated power EL of the solar cell 2 that is generated with the illumination light is measured, and the measured generated power EL of the solar cell 2 is converted into generated power ES generated by the solar cell 2 in the case of illumination with illumination light with a spectral irradiance S(λ) based on the reference solar light. Therefore, since the calibration in the solar cell evaluation device 1 is performed with software, the calibration can be performed in a simple manner and at a low cost even when the solar cell type is changed. |
| US08918297B2 |
Electronic device integrity monitoring apparatus
A storage unit stores a first reference value of an input/output electric signal into/from control unit and a second reference value of an input/output electric signal into/from a monitoring unit. If the amount of deviation between the input/output electric signal into/from the control unit and the first reference value exceeds a threshold value, a first caution signal output unit detects degradation of the control unit and outputs a caution signal. If the amount of deviation between the input/output electric signal into/from the monitoring unit and the second reference value exceeds a threshold value, a second caution signal output unit detects degradation of the monitoring unit and outputs a caution signal. The first and second reference values are acquired and stored in the storage unit in a period between completion of production of the control unit and the monitoring unit and start of the operation thereof. |
| US08918287B2 |
Method of determining density of underground formations using neutron-gamma ray measurements
A method of determining the density of an underground formation surrounding a borehole from measurement of gamma rays arising from irradiation of the formation by a nuclear source in a tool body located in the borehole, and measurement of gamma-ray flux in the tool body at two different detector spacings from the source, the method comprising determining a substantially straight-line relationship between gamma-ray flux measurements at each different spacing with respect to the density of the formation for a tool body with no standoff; determining a relationship defining the deviation with respect to tool standoff of the density determined from the measured gamma-ray flux measurements at the two different detector spacings from the density calculated from the straight line relationships; and for a given pair of gamma-ray flux measurements at the different detector spacings, determining the intersection of the relationship defining the deviation with the straight line relationship so as to indicate the density of the formation surrounding the bore-hole; wherein the source is a neutron source and the gamma rays measured in the too! body are neutron-induced gamma rays resulting from neutron irradiation of the formation. |
| US08918285B1 |
Testing water contamination in geographic areas
One example of testing for water contamination in geographic areas to determine a risk of water contamination includes determining a risk of water contamination. A computer system receives identification of a geographic area in which a risk of water contamination is to be determined. In response, the system determines a number of potential complaints of water contamination in the geographic area by applying the number of one or more correlated sources of water contamination located in the geographic area. The system determines a risk factor representing a risk of water contamination in the geographic area based, in part, on the number of potential complaints. The system can provide the risk factor as the risk of water contamination in the geographic area. |
| US08918281B2 |
Navigation apparatus
A navigation apparatus provides a guidance about an exiting road of a circular intersection based on a prestored road and a learned road. The navigation apparatus determines whether or not the learned road is included in connection roads of the circular intersection. When the learned road is not included in the connection roads of the circular intersection, the navigation apparatus provides the guidance about the circular intersection in an exit number mode. When the learned road is included in the connection roads of the circular intersection, the navigation apparatus device provides the guidance about the circular intersection in a learned road guidance mode. |
| US08918274B2 |
Selection and insertion of static elements in digital maps
A navigation system may display route information that includes a display of the fixtures that are located on or near the route. The fixtures may be selected and inserted into the digital map as graphical objects. The graphical objects may be classified into a class and at least one sub-class. The classification data may be used to select and generate the graphical objects. |
| US08918273B2 |
Method for determining an evasion trajectory for a motor vehicle, and safety device or safety system
A method for determination of an optimized evasion trajectory by a safety device or a safety system, in particular a lane change assistance system and/or evasion assistance system, of a motor vehicle, the optimized evasion trajectory being outputted to a vehicle driver, and/or a trajectory of the motor vehicle being optionally partially adapted to the optimized evasion trajectory, by way of the method, the optimized evasion trajectory being determined by optimization of a transverse-dynamic quality factor (J), for which a transverse acceleration (a) and/or a transverse jerk ({dot over (a)}) of the motor vehicle is/are utilized. Also described is a safety device or a safety system, in particular to a lane change assistance system and/or an evasion assistance system for a motor vehicle, a method being executable and/or being executed by the safety device or the safety system. |
| US08918271B2 |
Flight planning methods and systems
An electronic flight planning system is provided, arranged to implement a preferred method for identifying conflicts between flight plans for aircraft. In the preferred method, the system receives, as data input from one or more users, a plurality of flight plans each defining a flight by an aircraft; the system determines, for each aircraft and its respective received flight plan, a three-dimensional region of potential conflict, representative both of the uncertainty in the position of the aircraft and of a region of air exclusion appropriate for the aircraft or for the respective received flight plan; and the system determines, on the basis of the determined regions of potential conflict, whether one of the received flight plans is in conflict with any of the other received flight plans. |
| US08918264B2 |
Method and device for monitoring a turbine engine of an aircraft
A method and device aids in monitoring at least one turbine engine in an aircraft. The method includes determining a value illustrating a thermomechanical state of the turbine engine, and comparing the determined value with at least one threshold. The method also includes displaying in the cockpit of the aircraft, at least one indication related to the operation of the turbine engine, according to this comparison. As a result, conditions that could result in mechanical degradation or failure of the turbine engine are identified for a crew of the aircraft. |
| US08918263B2 |
Traction control for power machine
A disclosed power machine has a power source with a rotational output that drives a first axle assembly with first and second wheels with one of the first and second wheels being a sensed wheel. Wheel speed and rotational speed sensors monitor the rotation speed of the first sensed wheel and the rotational output, respectively. A controller communicates with the wheel speed sensor, the rotational output speed sensor, and a braking system that is operable to brake the first and second wheels. A controller calculates, as a function of the sensed wheel and rotational output speeds, a traction score indicative of whether one of the first wheel and second wheel is slipping and signals to the braking system to brake the first wheel when the traction score indicates that the first wheel is slipping and brake the second wheel when the traction score indicates that the second wheel is slipping. |
| US08918259B2 |
Method of managing a device that splits drive torque between the front and rear wheelset of a vehicle
A splitting of drive torque between front and rear wheelsets includes an actuator to split the torque between the wheelsets, an electronic unit controlling switching of the actuator into a coupled or uncoupled mode, a mechanism electrically powering the electronic unit, and sensors. The electronic unit can make the system adopt: an active operation in which a control signal is generated and the temperature of the actuator is estimated; and a sleep mode in which the temperature of the actuator is not estimated; the switch to sleep mode being authorized: only when the engine is stopped, and if the actuator temperature is below or equal to a threshold or a maximum time period has elapsed. |
| US08918258B2 |
System and method for avoiding engine underspeed and stall
System and method for controlling a transmission in response to transient torque events are disclosed. The method includes commanding a maximum transmission output torque; comparing the commanded output torque to a feedback torque to determine if they are equal; and incrementally increasing the transmission output torque until equal. A machine and a powertrain include a controller configured to command a maximum negative transmission output torque in response to a transient torque event, and incrementally increase the transmission output torque until such time as the transmission output torque is equal to or within a preset range of the feedback torque. |
| US08918256B2 |
Electric power steering apparatus and method controlling the same
The present invention relates to a technology for controlling an electric power steering apparatus. According to the present invention, a difference in steering feeling according to a change of a mechanical characteristic of an electric power steering apparatus can be corrected so that the sense of difference in steering felt by a driver when using the steering apparatus can be minimized and the reliability in relation to the apparatus can be enhanced. |
| US08918252B2 |
Light-based touch controls on a steering wheel
A system for use in a vehicle, including a steering element situated opposite a driver seat in a vehicle, the steering element including a plurality of proximity sensors encased in the periphery of the steering element operable to detect hand gestures along the outer periphery of the steering element, an interactive deck housed in the vehicle, for providing at least one of radio broadcast, video broadcast, audio entertainment, video entertainment and navigational assistance in the vehicle, and a processor housed in the vehicle, coupled with the proximity sensors and the deck, operable to identify the hand gestures detected by the proximity sensors, and to control the deck in response to thus-identified hand gestures. |
| US08918251B2 |
CAN based vehicle immobilizer
The CAN based vehicle immobilizer is a vehicle immobilizer which utilizing the CAN bus of the engine (powertrain) CAN connection on the OBDII/J1962 port or the vehicle CAN system, will completely immobilize a vehicle, preventing use of said vehicle and the starting of said vehicle engine. The vehicle immobilizer system can be installed by a 3rd party on an aftermarket basis and used to immobilize a vehicle despite an immobilization system being already present on said vehicle is not accessible by said 3rd party. The vehicle immobilizer system enables a user to immobilize the vehicle engine efficiently without shorting the CAN network bus lines, and with a minimum of modifications to the vehicle. The vehicle immobilizer system enables a user to immobilize a vehicle from starting the engine and from being driven with minimal modifications to vehicle wiring and with limited to no changes to the vehicle electrical system. |
| US08918250B2 |
System and method for display of information using a vehicle-mount computer
A system and method displays information using a vehicle-mount computer. The system includes (i) a computer touch screen for inputting and displaying information; (ii) a motion detector for detecting vehicle motion; (iii) a proximity sensor for detecting proximity to an item; and (vi) a vehicle-mount computer in communication with the computer touch screen, the motion detector, and proximity sensor, the vehicle-mount computer including a central processing unit and memory. The vehicle-mount computer's central processing unit is configured to store information associated with user-selected information from the computer touch screen and to display a zoomed view of the user-selected information on the computer touch screen. Further, the vehicle-mount computer's central processing unit is configured to override screen-blanking when user-selected information is displayed. |
| US08918249B2 |
Dual function electronic control unit
Methods and apparatus are provided for an electronic control unit that can be adjusted or changed to operate in different manners for different circumstances. The apparatus includes an electronic control unit (ECU) for operation of a plurality of electronic components, such as latch motors. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a plurality of inputs configured to receive a connection from a plurality of handle sensors, and a plurality of outputs configured to connect to the plurality of latch motors. The ECU also comprises a conversion loop with a receptacle and a receptacle circuit. The receptacle circuit can be configured as either an open or closed circuit, and the receptacle circuit is accessible via the receptacle. The ECU is configured to operate in either a first mode or a second mode depending on whether the receptacle circuit is open or closed. |
| US08918246B2 |
Augmented reality implement control
The disclosed strategy and method assists in controlling a machine equipped with a work implement for performing work at a worksite. The work implement can be positioned around the worksite such that the implement is obstructed from view through an operator display device through which the worksite is visible. A controller or the like determines the position of the work implement and generates an augmented overlay. The augmented overlay is displayed on the operator display device superimposed over the worksite indicating the position of the work implement. |
| US08918244B2 |
System and method of synchronizing an in-vehicle control system with a remote source
The present application relates to an in-vehicle control system for synchronizing files with a remote source. The remote source includes a storage device configured to store a first file. The system includes a communications device capable of establishing a wireless communication link with the remote source. The communications device is configured to send, receive, or both send and receive files to and/or from the remote source. The system further includes a memory device configured to store a second file. The system yet further includes a data processing device coupled to the communications device, the data processing device configured to perform a comparison of the first file of the remote source and the second file of the memory device, wherein the data processing device is further configured to synchronize the file of the remote source and the file of the in-vehicle control system based on the comparison. |
| US08918242B2 |
Apparatus, methods and systems for testing connected services in a vehicle
Various embodiments include tools and methods for diagnosing connected services in a vehicle. Communication with a vehicle computing system in a vehicle may be established. A diagnostic connection to a diagnostics server may also be established. Vehicle information and diagnostic data from one or more connected services may be received from the vehicle computing system and transmitted via a diagnostic connection to the diagnostics server. A connected services diagnostic status for the vehicle may be determined based on the vehicle information and the diagnostic data. The connected services diagnostic status may be received from the server and output to a user. |
| US08918240B2 |
Method for operating hybrid vehicle
A method and system used to identify an optimal hybrid vehicle operating mode based on a variety of potential factors, and then recommend the optimal operating mode to the driver so that they can make an informed decision regarding their operating mode selection. In one embodiment, the method uses geographic-, vehicle- and/or environmental-related factors to establish one or more operating zones, monitors the location of the hybrid vehicle and determines when it is within one of the operating zones, and then determines an operating mode that is optimal for that particular operating zone. |
| US08918236B2 |
Methods and systems for adjusting attitude using reaction wheels
Methods and systems are provided for controlling attitude of a vehicle using a reaction wheel onboard the vehicle. One exemplary method involves receiving a torque command for adjusting the attitude of the vehicle using the reaction wheel, determining a phase error of the reaction wheel based at least in part on the torque command, and determining a motor torque command for the reaction wheel based on the phase error. The motor torque command is provided to an electric motor of the reaction wheel to apply a corresponding torque to the rotor of the reaction wheel. The relationship between the magnitude of the motor torque command and the magnitude of the phase error is nonlinear. In exemplary embodiments, the magnitude of the motor torque command exceeds the stiction torque, at least instantaneously, when the reaction wheel has fallen behind an expected position by more than a threshold amount. |
| US08918233B2 |
Technique for providing multiple undo and redo operations for flight management systems
A technique for providing multiple undo and redo operations for flight management systems is disclosed. In one embodiment, in a method of providing multiple undo and redo operations for a flight plan in a flight management system, a temporary flight plan and a reference flight plan are created upon initiating a first revision on a created or default active flight plan. The temporary flight plan includes a copy of the active flight plan and the initiated first revision. The reference flight plan is a copy of the active flight plan. Further, multiple undo and redo functions are enabled upon initiating multiple revisions on the temporary flight plan for performing multiple undo and redo operations on the temporary flight plan. |
| US08918228B2 |
Vehicle behavior data storing apparatus
An engine ECU compares an acceleration value with a reference value, which corresponds to an accelerator operation value inputted in response to a user operation on an accelerator pedal, and stores vehicle behavior data when the acceleration value exceeds the reference value. After determining that the acceleration value is larger than the reference value and storing the vehicle behavior data, the reference value is changed to a larger value. After determining that the acceleration value is smaller than the reference value and, for example, a period in which the acceleration value remains lower than the reference value, reaches a set period, the reference value is changed to a smaller value. Thus, the number of times of storing the vehicle behavior data is equalized among vehicle users. |
| US08918223B2 |
Apparatus for managing an energy consuming load
An apparatus for managing an energy consuming load in a group of energy consuming loads, including a transmitter to transmit a set of load state data generated from the load and a receiver to receive sets of load state data generated from the other loads. A processor generates the set of load state data from the load, compiles the set of load state data from the load with the sets of load state data from the other loads, and processes the compiled sets of load state data in order to make an enablement state decision for the load that reflects an enablement state of a load, being either a load enabled state where the load is capable of operating even when the load is not actually operating or a load disabled state where the load is not capable of operating. The enablement state decision is implemented by a controller. |
| US08918217B2 |
Method and system for optimizing membrane cleaning process
A reverse osmosis separation process is disclosed, such as for desalination and waste water reuse process, wherein an effectiveness of membrane cleaning can be estimated. Exemplary embodiments operate the reverse osmosis membrane cleaning process for a controlled time for cleaning and with a controlled value of chemical concentration in a chemical liquor prepared for cleaning the membrane. A method can include estimating fouling status of the membrane and determining a controlled value of chemical concentration in the chemical liquor, and a controlled time for cleaning based on the fouling status of the membrane. |
| US08918215B2 |
Telematic interface with control signal scaling based on force sensor feedback
Method and system for telematic control of a slave device. A stiffness of a material physically contacted by a slave device (202) is estimated based on information obtained from one or more slave device sensors (216, 217). Based on this stiffness estimation, a motion control command directed to the slave device is dynamically scaled. A data processing system (204) is in communication with a control interface (203) and the slave device. The data processing system (204) is configured to generate the motion control commands in response to sensor data obtained from the control interface. The system (200) also includes a stiffness estimator (602) configured for automatically estimating a stiffness of a material physically contacted by the slave device based on information obtained from the slave device sensors. A scaling unit (607) is responsive to the stiffness estimator and is configured for dynamically scaling the motion control command. |
| US08918212B2 |
Arm with a combined shape and force sensor
A bend sensor is used to determine force applied to a robotic arm. The force may be an external force applied to the arm, an internal actuation force, or both. In some aspects, a stiffening element is used to restore the arm to a minimum kinematic energy state. In other aspects, the stiffening element is eliminated, and the arm is fully actuated. |
| US08918208B1 |
Projection of interactive map data
Methods and systems for robot cloud computing are described. Within examples, cloud-based computing generally refers to networked computer architectures in which application execution and storage may be divided, to some extent, between client and server devices. A robot may be any device that has a computing ability and interacts with its surroundings with an actuation capability (e.g., electromechanical capabilities). A client device may be configured as a robot including various sensors and devices in the forms of modules, and different modules may be added or removed from robot depending on requirements. In some example, a robot may be configured to receive a second device, such as mobile phone, that may be configured to function as an accessory or a “brain” of the robot. A robot may interact with the cloud to perform any number of actions, such as to share information with other cloud computing devices. |
| US08918207B2 |
Operator input device for a robotic surgical system
A robotic surgical system includes a master controller with an input handle and robotic manipulator assemblies including a surgical end effector and an endoscopic camera. The input handle is translatable to provide a position and rotatable to provide an orientation. A control system couples the master controller to the first and second manipulator assemblies. The control system moves the surgical end effector in response to the position and orientation of the input handle. The control system moves the input handle to orient the input handle to correspond to an orientation of the surgical end effector from a viewpoint of the endoscopic camera during the repositioning of at least one of the input handle position, the end effector, or the endoscopic camera. The control system may move the surgical end effector only in a first mode and orients the input handle only in a second mode. |
| US08918205B2 |
Adjustable speed control system, method and computer readable medium for use with a conveyor and a reader
An adjustable speed control system includes a reader, databases, processors and a conveyor controller. The databases store data concerning conveyor stops and failed attempts by the reader to identify conveyed items. Based on the failed attempts and the conveyor stops, the processors calculate an optimal speed of the conveyor. The controller adjusts the conveyor speed towards the optimal speed to increase the conveyed items successfully identified by the reader. Also disclosed are a corresponding method and computer readable medium on which is stored instructions to, upon execution, adjustably control the conveyor speed. |
| US08918204B2 |
Transport unit
A transport unit (1) is provided for workpieces (2), in particular sheet metal parts, between neighboring placement areas or machining devices (3, 4), in particular presses. The transport unit (1) includes a multi-axis robot (5) having a gripper tool (9). A controllable transfer unit (6) is also provided that is guided by the robot (5). The unit includes an advancement unit (7) and a pivot unit (8) for the gripper tool (9). |
| US08918203B2 |
Substrate processing apparatus
A substrate processing apparatus including a frame, a first SCARA arm connected to the frame, including an end effector, configured to extend and retract along a first radial axis; a second SCARA arm connected to the frame, including an end effector, configured to extend and retract along a second radial axis, the SCARA arms having a common shoulder axis of rotation; and a drive section coupled to the SCARA arms is configured to independently extend each SCARA arm along a respective radial axis and rotate each SCARA arm about the common shoulder axis of rotation where the first radial axis is angled relative to the second radial axis and the end effector of a respective arm is aligned with a respective radial axis, wherein each end effector is configured to hold at least one substrate and the end effectors are located on a common transfer plane. |
| US08918202B2 |
Controlling mobile drive units with active markers
A method of controlling a mobile drive unit includes detecting, by a mobile drive unit at a first location, an active marker at the first location. The mobile drive unit is a self-powered robotic device configured to move independently in a workspace in response to instructions received from the active marker. A management module transmits an instruction to the active marker. The active marker emits a signal detectable by the mobile drive unit, the signal comprising the instruction. The mobile drive unit receives the instruction from the active marker for the mobile drive unit to perform a task. |
| US08918201B2 |
Method and system for arranging rod-like elements
Method and system for arranging rod-like elements, in which an unordered portion of rod-like elements, composed each of at least one part selected from cigarette parts being filter parts and tobacco parts, is delivered to a conveyor which arranges the elements on the conveyor in a plurality of compartments, longitudinally in each compartment and transversely to the direction of movement of the conveyor. The compartments have a length which receives at least one filter part and at least one tobacco part of a cigarette. The type, number and location of parts of the element received in each compartment is defined by at least a single scanning of each successive compartment of the conveyor. The result of the scanning is transmitted to a control unit and the elements are subsequently sorted based on information received from the control unit. |
| US08918200B2 |
Method and apparatus for monitoring food type and position
A method and apparatus for determining the position and type of food located in a food compartment wherein the food compartment may contain or hold solids or liquids. For example, the method includes a sensor to determine the type of the solid or liquids located in the food compartment or container. The sensor may also be used to determine the position or location of the food. The method contemplates having at least one and may include multiple containers or food compartments wherein a container holds liquids and a food compartment holds solids or semi-solids. By determining the type and location of the food in the food compartment an individual may select a certain type of food from a specific food compartment. In addition, transmitting the location or position of the food to the feed arm results in a more efficient delivery system. Further, knowing the type of food located in the food compartment enables transmission of data to a remote location wherein the data includes or is the basis for information or reports relating to the type of food consumed, including the nutritional value thereof. In addition, the sensor may also monitor the food compartment and/or container and send data, including images, in real-time to a remote location. |
| US08918197B2 |
Audio communication networks
As the possible variations of “Hearing Thresholds”, “Hearing Loudness bandwidths” and “Voice Intonation” characteristics of people are finite, it is proposed to set a Database of these characteristics, where the data elements fully describe the Hearing and Talking characteristics of anyone, while many have the same characteristics. Thus any voice communication between two parties may be optimized by correcting the intensities of the call in the spectral domain, differently for each party and each ear. The optimizations are automatic given the “codes” of the parties and have a minimal latency. The system may be implemented either centrally in the world-wide-web or at the edges, in cellular phones, landline phones, VoIP, VoIM and in the audio parts of entertainment devices. |
| US08918196B2 |
Method for weighted overlap-add
A method for generating an output sequence of samples in response to a first and a second subsequence of samples, the method comprising —applying a weighted overlap-add procedure to the first and second subsequences so as to generate the output sequence of samples, —optimizing a weighting function involved in the weighted overlap-add procedure in response to a measure of matching between the output sequence of samples and one or more target sequences of samples. |
| US08918195B2 |
Media management and tracking
A system is described for enabling a user to listen to songs on a network-enabled device, including an embedded receiver for receiving at least one song list, and for receiving music streamed over a wireless network, list navigation software, for navigating the at least one song list and selecting a desired song therefrom, using a keypad communicatively coupled with the network-enabled device, an embedded transmitter for transmitting a song selection to a tracking server, and an embedded audio player, for playing the music streamed to the network-enabled device over the wireless network, a tracking server, including a data store including at least one song list, a receiver for receiving a song selection from said network-enabled device, the song selection comprising an ID for a selected song, and a transmitter for transmitting the at least one song list to the network-enabled device, and for transmitting the received song selection to a media server, and a media server, including a data store including audio files for the songs listed in the song list, an audio streamer, a receiver for receiving an instruction from said tracking server to transmit the selected song to the network-enabled device, and a transmitter for streaming the selected song to the network-enabled device. A method and a computer-readable storage medium are also described. |
| US08918194B2 |
Mounting-line power control device and mounting-line power control method
A mounting-line power control device (100) includes: a target value obtaining unit (110) which obtains, for each mounting line, a target value for demand power for a first period; a priority obtaining unit (120) which obtains a first priority level of each mounting line; a target value changing unit (130) which decreases the target value for the demand power of a second mounting line in the first period when the demand power of a first mounting line in the first period exceeds its target value, the second mounting line having the lower first priority level than the first mounting line; and a power usage changing unit (140) which reduces power used in the first period by the component-mounted board production apparatus included in the second mounting line, such that the demand power of the second mounting line in the first period does not exceed the decreased target value. |
| US08918193B2 |
Heart wire
An apparatus including a pledget; and an anchor disposed through the pledget in a manner to form a loop over a surface of the pledget, wherein the anchor comprises electrically conductive material. A kit including a pledget; an anchor of an electrically conductive material including at least one end having a structure capable of puncturing myocardial tissue; and a heart wire. A method including placing an electrically conductive portion of a heart wire between a pledget and an anchor coupling the pledget to a heart of a patient; and establishing conductive contact between the anchor and the heart wire. An advantage of the apparatus and method is that an anchor may be placed in healthy myocardial tissue and a heart wire electrically connected to the anchor may be removed with minimal risk of bleeding. |
| US08918188B2 |
Electrode array and method of manufacturing same
The present invention provides an electrode array for a medical implant device, comprising a substrate supporting a plurality of electrodes, the substrate comprising at least two layers of material including a first layer and a second layer, wherein the first layer of material and the second layer of material have different coefficients of thermal expansion. The plurality of electrodes may be supported on the first layer of material, and are preferably incorporated in and/or project from the second layer of material. The second layer of material may itself have a layered structure comprising multiple material layers, with the plurality of electrodes incorporated within the said multiple material layers. The first layer of material preferably has a higher coefficient of thermal expansion than the second layer of material. The invention furthermore provides a medical implant device including an electrode array according to the invention, and a method of manufacturing such an electrode array. |
| US08918187B2 |
Medical leads and related systems that include coiled filars with longitudinally straight ends
Medical leads included coiled filars that have longitudinally straight ends. The coiled filars may be coiled at a constant pitch until reaching the point where the filars become longitudinally straight. The coiled filars may reside within a central lumen of the lead body, while the longitudinally straight portions may reside in a region where electrical connectors are present and where filar passageways provide a pathway for the filars to exit the central lumen and bond with the electrical connectors. The coiled filars may be created with longitudinally straight ends using a body that includes longitudinally straight holes that receive the filars and maintain the longitudinally straight configuration while the remaining portion of the filars is being coiled. |
| US08918186B2 |
Device with flexible multilayer system for contacting or electrostimulation of living tissue cells or nerves
The object,—to create a printed circuit board for an implant having improved properties in connection with the electrical contacting via the contact points of the conductor tracks on the printed circuit board,—is achieved, according to the present invention, by means of a device for contacting and/or electrostimulation of living tissue cells or nerves with having a printed circuit board having with at least one contact point for electrical contacting, the printed circuit board encompassing comprising a flexible multilayer system with at least one conductor track. In accordance with the invention, the contact points for the conductor track in the multilayer system are galvanically reinforced. To this end, a galvanically reinforced layer is grown onto the already preprocessed contact point, for example by means of a galvanic process. By virtue of the application of one or more additional material layers onto the contact points of the conductor tracks, these latter are mechanically more stably anchored in the printed circuit board in mechanically more stable manner and hence become more reliable in their function. |
| US08918184B1 |
Identification of electrode combination for efficacious electrical stimulation therapy
One or more efficacious electrode combinations for delivering electrical stimulation therapy to a patient may be selected based on the delivery of electrical stimulation to the patient via a predefined set of test electrode combinations in a predetermined order. In some examples, the electrode combinations of the set are arranged in the predetermined order such that adjacent electrode combinations in the order include at least one shared anode electrode or cathode electrode. In addition, the electrode combinations in the predetermined order may define a predetermined sequence of electrode patterns, each electrode pattern defining a relative arrangement between one or more anodes and one or more cathodes of the respective electrode pattern. In some examples, the transition between electrode combinations in the predefined set is achieved by incrementally adjusting at least one of anodic amplitudes assigned to active anode electrodes or cathodic amplitudes assigned to active cathode electrodes. |
| US08918183B2 |
Systems and methods for stimulation-related volume analysis, creation, and sharing
A computer implemented system and method facilitates a cycle of generation, sharing, and refinement of volumes related to stimulation of anatomical tissue, such as brain or spinal cord stimulation. Such volumes can include target stimulation volumes, side effect volumes, and volumes of estimated activation. A computer system and method also facilitates analysis of groups of volumes, including analysis of differences and/or commonalities between different groups of volumes. |
| US08918180B2 |
Symmetrical output neurostimulation device
A method and system of providing therapy to a patient using electrodes implanted adjacent tissue. The method comprises regulating a first voltage at an anode of the electrodes relative to the tissue, regulating a second voltage at a cathode of the electrodes relative to the tissue, and conveying electrical stimulation energy between the anode at the first voltage and the cathode at the second voltage, thereby stimulating the neural tissue. The system comprises a grounding electrode configured for being placed in contact with the tissue, electrical terminals configured for being respectively coupled to the electrodes, a first regulator configured for being electrically coupled between an anode of the electrodes and the grounding electrode, a second regulator configured for being electrically coupled between an anode of the electrodes and the grounding electrode, and control circuitry configured for controlling the regulators to convey electrical stimulation energy between the anode and cathode. |
| US08918178B2 |
Non-invasive vagal nerve stimulation to treat disorders
Devices, systems and methods are disclosed for treating a variety of diseases and disorders that are primarily or at least partially driven by an imbalance in neurotransmitters in the brain, such as asthma, COPD, depression, anxiety, epilepsy, fibromyalgia, and the like. The invention involves the use of an energy source comprising magnetic and/or electrical energy that is transmitted non-invasively to, or in close proximity to, a selected nerve to temporarily stimulate, block and/or modulate the signals in the selected nerve such that neural pathways are activated to release inhibitory neurotransmitters in the patient's brain. |
| US08918176B2 |
Assessing cognitive disorders based on non-motor epileptiform bioelectrical brain activity
Various embodiments concern assessing a degenerative cognitive disorder of a patient based on a plurality of episodes of non-motor epileptiform bioelectrical activity. The non-motor epileptiform bioelectrical activity can be detected from one or more bioelectrical brain signals. A worsening cognitive disorder may be indicated by an increase in one or more of intensity, duration, and frequency of occurrence of the episodes of non-motor epileptiform bioelectrical activity. A therapy can be delivered to reduce one or more of intensity, duration, and frequency of occurrence of the episodes of non-motor epileptiform bioelectrical activity. The delivery of the therapy can be controlled based on the plurality of episodes of non-motor epileptiform bioelectrical activity. |
| US08918167B2 |
RI measurement/notification apparatus and measurement/notification program
An RI measurement/notification apparatus includes: a displaying section configured to display waveform data of an intracardiac electrocardiogram; a waveform data acquiring section configured to acquire waveform data in a preset waveform data acquisition time period from an intracardiac electrocardiogram during atrial fibrillation; an RI calculating section configured to calculate an RI value based on the waveform data acquired by the waveform data acquiring section; and a notifying section configured to, in a case where the RI value calculated by the RI calculating section exceeds a preset threshold, notify that the value exceeds the threshold. |
| US08918163B2 |
Animal holder for in vivo tomographic imaging with multiple modalities
The invention facilitates transport of an immobilized, anesthetized small animal across multiple single-modality or multiple-modality imaging workstations at the same or different physical locations without loss of subject positional information. The animal holder is compatible with preclinical animal imaging stations such as micro-CT, micro-MR, micro-PET, micro-SPECT, and FMT. The animal holder is configured to be accommodated by (for example, fit within) individual imaging chambers of such instruments and is fabricated from materials that are compliant with all of the imaging modalities used. In certain embodiments, an integrated set of fiducial marker wells accommodates the dispensing of markers that are picked up by several modalities simultaneously in multiple planes. The fiducial markers then are aligned in standard image processing or image analysis software with simple image translation and rotation operations, without the need for more advanced scaling, distortion or other operations. |
| US08918162B2 |
System and method for using three dimensional infrared imaging to provide psychological profiles of individuals
A sequence of three-dimensional thermal infrared images of the face or other area of the body is analyzed to extract time-varying maps which link skin surface temperature details to the locations of anatomical structures. Frame-to-frame quantitative variations in temperature and position of anatomical nodes of the body maps are determined for the sequence and compared to reference profiles to produce estimates of physiological condition and psychological state. The magnitude, latency, and duration of such variations at particular anatomical locations resulting from selected controlled stimuli have been determined to be strongly correlated with particular psychological states. |
| US08918153B2 |
Method and device for measuring parameters of cardiac function
A device for non-invasively measuring at least one parameter of a cardiac blood vessel in a patient is provided. The device comprises at least one light source that emits light in the 400 nm to 1000 nm wavelength range; at least one photodetector adapted to receive light emitted by the light source and generate an output based on the received light, wherein said light is reflected from or transmitted through tissue of the patient, the output of said photodetector being correlated with a parameter of the blood vessel; and at least one probe for facilitating delivery of light from the light source to an external tissue site on the patient in the proximity of the cardiac blood vessel and receipt of light by the photodetector. A system and methods of monitoring/measuring cardiac parameters utilizing the device and/or system are also provided. |
| US08918152B2 |
Parallel fabrication of nanogaps and devices thereof
Disclosed are devices comprising multiple nanogaps having a separation of less than about 5 nm. Also disclosed are methods for fabricating these devices. |
| US08918151B2 |
Portable terminal and method thereof
A portable device and method thereof are disclosed. The method includes recognizing a mode of the portable terminal; monitoring a sensitivity corresponding to an antenna of the portable terminal; sensing a movement corresponding to the portable terminal; invoking an application when both of following conditions occur: a degradation of the sensitivity is determined; and the movement exceeding a predetermined displacement is determined. |
| US08918148B2 |
Systems and methods for controlling sensor devices in mobile devices
Systems and methods for controlling one or more sensor devices are disclosed. In one embodiment, a system of a mobile device for controlling one or more sensor devices comprises an application processor (AP), a low power personal area network (PAN) module configured to wirelessly communicate with an external device for establishing a connection with the external device, at least one sensor device, and a controller coupled to the AP, the low power PAN module and the at least one sensor device. The controller is configured to monitor a connection request signal communicated from the external device via the low power PAN module while the AP is in a sleep mode, and generate sensor data by processing each signal from the at least one sensor device during the sleep mode, where the controller is supplied with quiescent current from a battery of the mobile device during the sleep mode. |
| US08918145B2 |
System and method for selection of wireless service provider via a mobile terminal
A system and method for provisioning a wireless service provider through a mobile device using a SIM card within the mobile device accesses a server via a wireless hub using the SIM card and requests comparison data relating to a plurality of wireless service providers. The comparison data is provided to the mobile device from the server responsive to the request, and the mobile device displays this comparison information. A user selection is provided selecting a particular wireless service provider using the mobile device, and the selected wireless service provider is established as the wireless service provider for the mobile device. |
| US08918136B2 |
Adjustment of transmit power parameter
Adjustment of a downlink transmit power parameter, such as a ceiling level, is disclosed. Signal-to-noise type information and committed power information can be employed to determine the ceiling level adjustment. A ceiling level can be a predetermined cap on transmission power for downlink channels between a user equipment and a base station. Where there is sufficient headroom in total transmission power and a power level greater than the predetermined ceiling can be effective, the ceiling can be adjusted to greater values than the predetermined value. Where total transmission power is more committed, ceiling adjustment can be prevented. Further, where there is no adequate benefit from increasing the ceiling, the adjustment of the ceiling can be prevented. While some instances can result in optimized transmission levels below the ceiling, instances can also be accommodated where the ceiling is to be increased. |
| US08918135B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling uplink transmission power
The present description relates to a method for controlling uplink power in a distributed multi-node system, comprising the following steps: receiving reference signals from a plurality of antenna nodes containing at least one antenna; estimating average propagation loss on the basis of the receiving power of the reference signals received from the plurality of antenna nodes; receiving, via a downlink control channel, noise and interference (NI) information from a base station which contains the plurality of antenna nodes; and determining uplink transmission power using the estimated average propagation loss and the received noise and interference information. |
| US08918134B2 |
Method and system for managing transmitting power of communications devices equipped with a plurality of antennas
A communications system and method for managing transmitting power of communications devices equipped with multiple antennas. A first communications device enables a first antenna configuration in accordance with a first pre-determined rule. A second communications device activates a second antenna configuration in accordance with a second predetermined rule. First and second messages are exchanged between the first and second communications devices. The first message includes the power management profile of the first communications device and the second message includes information pertinent to a power management profile of the second communications device, and signal integrity information determined by the second communications device from the received first message. The first communications device enables a third antenna configuration in accordance with the first pre-determined rule and the second communications device activates a fourth antenna in accordance with the second pre-determined rule configuration after the first and second messages have been exchanged. |
| US08918130B2 |
Method for transmitting a communication signal
A data transmitter is provided for transmitting data that makes it possible for nodes, relaying the preamble transmitted by a transmitter node, to also transmit data to a single destination node without, in turn, transmitting another preamble. In a network comprising a plurality of nodes that alternately observe sleeping and waking periods in an asynchronous manner relative to each other, a node receives a first preamble that is transmitted by at least one transmitter node. The first preamble comprises at least one first set of information related to transmission, by the transmitter node, of a first data set to a destination node. The adjacent node transmits a second data set to the destination node or to another node from the transmission of the first data set. |
| US08918123B2 |
Method and apparatus for reducing standby power
A method and a portable terminal for reducing standby power of a portable terminal which performs paging according to a set paging interval are provided. The method includes determining whether a Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) card polling interval arrives during a sleep mode of the portable terminal and synchronizing the SIM card polling interval with the set paging interval when the SIM card polling interval arrives. |
| US08918116B2 |
Methods and apparatuses for reduction of interference during positioning measurements
The exemplary embodiments of the present invention relate to methods and apparatuses enabling reduction of interference in a wireless system in order to assist a user equipment in performing positioning measurements. According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a radio network node is configured to: receive a measurement report from the UE comprising signal quality measurements related to interfering cells; to select a set of most interfering cells and to determine a level of reduction of transmission activity to be executed at specific time for a determined duration. |
| US08918112B2 |
Preamble design for a wireless signal
Providing for management of wireless communications in a heterogeneous wireless access point (AP) environment is described herein. By way of example, system data of an over-the-air message can be configured to include information identifying a distinct type of transmitting base station. In some aspects, the information can include an access type of the base station and/or a sector ID for distinguishing the base station among large numbers of other base stations. According to other aspects, the information can include wireless channel resources designated for a particular type of base station, or blanked by the transmitting base station, to facilitate interference reduction on such resources. By employing aspects of wireless communication management disclosed herein, efficient and reliable communication can be affected in large heterogeneous AP networks. |
| US08918099B2 |
Air-to-ground wireless deconfliction from ground-to-ground cellular communication
A method and system is disclosed enabling deconfliction between a ground-based radio and an airborne radio while both radios are in wireless data communication with a ground-based cellular network via the same ground-based connection node or tower. An orthogonal plurality of time/frequency segments is divided into a ground group of segments and an air group of segments by dynamically placing a frequency barrier between the two groups. Through dynamic allocation between groups and between the plurality of time/frequency segments within each group, interference free communication may coexist while both radios are wirelessly connected to the same tower. Additionally, an uplink (from airborne radio to tower) frequency may be moved to a second, distant frequency band to deconflict with the uplink and downlink first frequency band allotted to the ground-based radio while the downlink from tower to airborne radio remains within the first frequency band. |
| US08918092B2 |
System for managing social group interactions
A system for managing social group interactions comprising a server that supports creation and management of a plurality of social groups and a plurality of user devices communicatively coupled to the server that is used by a plurality of users. The server supports the registration of each of the plurality of users as members of one or more of the plurality of social groups. The server saves a list of the plurality of social groups in which the one of the plurality of users is currently a member at the one of the plurality of user devices associated with the one of the plurality of users. For example, if a user using the user device is associated with a social group (where he is a member), then the server saves a reference and membership details and even a member list in the user device. |
| US08918089B2 |
Method and device for verifying physical recognition between a caller and a called party
The method of authorizing the transmission of a message comprises requesting the transmission of a message from a calling party to a called party and presenting a plurality of audiovisual media elements to the calling party, one of which is representative of a physical characteristic of the called party. The other audiovisual media elements are similar in form to the media element representative of the called party. The calling party selects one audiovisual media element from the presented media elements. The transmission of the message from the calling party to the called party is authorized only in the case where the selected audiovisual media element is representative of the called party. |
| US08918088B1 |
Methods and apparatus for delivering targeted advertising for radio listeners
A network configuration and method of delivering targeted advertisement during an audio broadcasting using a targeted radio advertisement manager (“TRAM”) are disclosed. A TRAM process for delivering targeted advertisement (“AD”) is able to receive a packet carrying identification (“ID”) identifying a radio and a time stamp associated with a tune-in broadcast station via a cellular communication network. After identifying at least one user associated with the radio, a user preference is determined in accordance with the user. After generating a set of targeted ads based on user preference, the set of targeted ads is forwarded to the radio. The targeted ads are selectively disseminated during commercial intervals between radio broadcasting in accordance with a predefined broadcasting schedule. |
| US08918080B2 |
Mobile device management
Methods and systems are disclosed for reducing fraud, waste, and abuse of devices associated with government or business programs. Devices are authenticated based on a first set of data collected from the device, and if authenticated, may be permitted to send or receive service requests based on a second set of data that identifies the user, includes data about the user, identifies the service and/or identifies eligibility criteria. Devices may also be subject to eligibility requirements instituted before, during or after a service request is performed that determine the eligibility of the device and/or the user of the device. Devices may also be subject to filtering requirements administered before or during a service request. Devices may also be subject verification before, during or after one or more service requests. |
| US08918069B2 |
Compact wide dynamic range transmitter for point to point radio
A radio frequency transmitter comprising a modem which receives one or more input data signals and an adaptive predistortion signal and provides a baseband in-phase signal and a baseband quadrature signal. The transmitter may comprise a power amplifier module which receives the in-phase and quadrature phase signals and provides a radio frequency output signal. A predistortion module receives the radio frequency signal, downconverts the radio frequency signal to an intermediate frequency signal, and downconverts the intermediate frequency signal to a baseband feedback signal. The transmitter samples the feedback signal and provides an adaptive predistortion signal to the modem. |
| US08918068B1 |
Wide bandwidth RF power limiter
A radio frequency (RF) power limiter including a signal conductor having an input end and an output end and first and second limiter stages. The first limiter stage comprises a plurality of stacked diode strings arranged in anti-parallel with respect to the signal conductor. The second limiter stage comprises a second plurality of stacked diode strings arranged in anti-parallel with respect to the signal conductor. An all pass filter is arranged between the first and second limiter stages. |
| US08918066B2 |
Facilitating switching between transmitting antennas in portable electronic devices
The disclosed embodiments provide a system that uses a first antenna and a second antenna in a portable electronic device. During operation, the system receives a request to switch from the first antenna to the second antenna to transmit a signal to a cellular receiver. Next, the system loads a set of radio-frequency (RF) calibration values for the second antenna. Finally, the system performs the switch from the first antenna to the second antenna to transmit the signal, wherein the second antenna is operated using the RF calibration values after the switch. |
| US08918062B2 |
Combined intelligent receive diversity (IRD) and mobile transmit diversity (MTD) with independent antenna switching for uplink and downlink
Methods and apparatus are provided for allowing a transmitter (Tx) to perform antenna selection independently of a receiver (Rx) in a transceiver supporting both transmit diversity and receive diversity. Certain aspects may utilize a cross switch, which may be used in a parallel or cross configuration, to provide for the independent antenna selection, such that the Rx may maintain the ability to operate on the same antenna as the Tx, on another antenna, or on both antennas for enhanced receive diversity. Furthermore, certain aspects may employ additional switching in the baseband domain in an effort to avoid, or at least reduce, switching glitches in the Rx caused by changing the cross switch configuration. In this manner, the Rx need not re-converge upon antenna switching. |
| US08918060B2 |
2G, 2.5G RF loopback arrangement for mobile device self-testing
In a mobile communication device a loopback technique is used to enable the receive chain circuitry and digital baseband block to perform self tests on the transmit chain circuitry of the same mobile communication device for 2G and 2.5G operating Bands and channels. A transmit chain circuit is set to transmit a selected receive Band channel, which is attenuated via a loopback path within the mobile communication device's front end module and, in some embodiments, via a leakage signal path between adjacent or proximate LNA inputs of separate receive chain circuits. |
| US08918055B2 |
Beamforming
A method implemented in a wireless communications system is disclosed. The method includes determining a first candidate set of transmit beams for a wireless transmitter having a transmit antenna array and a second candidate set of receive beams for a wireless receiver having a receive antenna array, transmitting, from the wireless transmitter, each transmit beam in the first candidate set, and applying, at the wireless receiver, receive beams in the second candidate set to receive said each transmit beam in the first candidate set. Other methods, systems, and apparatuses also are disclosed. |
| US08918045B2 |
Image glossing apparatus, image glossing method, and recording medium storing image glossing program
An image glossing apparatus including a recording sheet feeder feeding a recording sheet bearing a toner image; a glossing device including a heater heating a glossing portion of the toner image to gloss the portion; a glossiness information obtaining device obtaining position information on the position of the glossing portion; and a position detector including a tip detector detecting tip of the fed recording sheet, and a distance measuring device measuring the moving distance of the recording sheet after the tip of the recording sheet is detected. The position detector detects the position of a portion of the recording sheet facing the heater based on the information on the tip of the recording sheet and the information on the moving distance of the recording sheet. When the portion of the recording sheet facing the heater is the glossing portion, the heater heats the portion to gloss the glossing portion. |
| US08918042B2 |
Fixing device and image forming apparatus including the fixing device
A fixing device for fixing an image on a recording medium includes a rotatable endless fixing rotary member, a heating source which heats the fixing rotary member, an opposite rotary member in contact with the fixing rotary member, a nip forming member provided inside the fixing rotary member and in contact with the opposite rotary member via the fixing rotary member to form a nip portion to which the recording medium is fed, holding members rotatably holding end portions of the fixing rotary member, and protecting members provided between the holding members and end surfaces of the fixing rotary member to protect the end portions. Each of the protecting members has an opposite surface facing the corresponding end surface of the fixing rotary member, and including an inner diameter-side end edge having an inclined surface inclined in an inner diameter direction and away from the fixing rotary member. |
| US08918039B2 |
Cleaning device, fixing device, and image forming apparatus
A cleaning device includes a first cleaning roller and a second cleaning roller. The first cleaning roller contacts a member to be cleaned, rotates, separates any matter to be removed that is stuck on the member to be cleaned from the member to be cleaned, and causes the matter to be removed to adhere to the first cleaning roller. The member to be cleaned rotates or circulates. The first cleaning roller has an elastic peripheral surface. The second cleaning roller has a peripheral surface whose hardness is higher than that of the first cleaning roller. The second cleaning roller pushes the first cleaning roller and rotates while causing the first cleaning roller to be elastically recessed, to separate the matter to be removed that is stuck on the first cleaning roller therefrom and cause the matter to be removed to adhere to the second cleaning roller. |
| US08918038B2 |
Fixing device and image forming apparatus incorporating same
A fixing device includes a fixing unit and a gloss equalizing unit. The fixing unit is disposed in a media conveyance path to fix a toner image on a recording medium conveyed therethrough. The fixing unit includes a rotary fuser member, a rotary pressure member, and a media stripper. The fuser member is subjected to heating. The rotary pressure member is pressed against the fuser member to form a fixing nip therebetween. The media stripper is held in contact with the pressure member to allow the recording medium to separate from the pressure member. The gloss equalizing unit is disposed downstream from the fixing unit along the media conveyance path. The gloss equalizing unit includes a pair of first and second rotary glossing rollers, at least one of which is heated and at least one of which is pressed against the other to form a gloss equalizing nip therebetween. |
| US08918037B2 |
Developing device and image forming apparatus
This disclosure relates to a developing device supplying a non-magnetic one-component developer onto an image bearing member on which an electrostatic latent image is formed. The developing device has an accommodating portion, a supply roller, a development roller, and a regulating member. The accommodating portion accommodates the developer. The supply roller holds the developer accommodated in the accommodating portion on the outer circumferential surface thereof. The development roller has a roller portion, and a rotational shaft member. The roller portion receives the developer supplied from the supply roller and holds a developer layer on the outer circumferential surface thereof. The rotational shaft member is arranged to extend along a rotational axis and has at least one magnet portion. The regulating member is a plate member arranged to be surface contacted onto the surface of the developer layer on the development roller and having part thereof configured of a magnetic member. |
| US08918035B2 |
Developing apparatus, developing method and magnetic toner for developing apparatus
An object of the present invention is to provide a developing apparatus which can provide images having superior image density and less fogging.The present invention relates to a developing apparatus wherein a magnetic toner-carrying member has a work function value at the surface within a specific range, a toner regulating member which regulates toner carried on the magnetic toner-carrying member is formed by a specific material at a portion contacting the magnetic toner, and has a ratio [W/B] of the amount W of silica fine powder to the theoretical specific surface area B of the magnetic toner satisfying a specific relation. |
| US08918032B2 |
Volumetric toner cartridge having toner agitators
A toner cartridge for an imaging device having a housing having a toner reservoir and an exit port in fluid communication with the toner reservoir. A drive shaft rotatably mounts within the toner reservoir. A toner platform is movably coupled to the drive shaft and is nonrotatable but slidable relative to the housing. A resilient arm is positioned within the reservoir and biased toward an initial position in the path of the toner platform. When the drive shaft rotates, the toner platform translates toward the exit port. When the toner platform contacts the resilient arm, the resilient arm moves to permit the toner platform to pass and when the toner platform moves further toward the exit port the resilient arm returns to the initial position. The resilient arm may mount on the inner surface, the toner to platform or the drive shaft. |
| US08918031B2 |
Volumetric toner cartridge having driven detachable toner platform
A toner cartridge for an imaging apparatus having a housing including two opposed end walls and an elongated body therebetween and an exit port. An inner surface of the body defines a toner reservoir that is in communication with the exit port. A drive shaft is rotatably mounted within the housing. A translatable toner platform is provided in slidable contact with the inner surface of the body and is nonrotatable relative to the housing. A toner platform stop is also provided. A detachable drive shaft coupling couples the toner platform to the drive shaft and upon the toner platform hitting the stop, the coupling detaches from the platform. The detachable coupling may be provided in a frangible portion of the toner platform or be frictionally engaged with a recess therein. Rotation of the drive shaft translates the toner platform toward the exit port and rotates an exit paddle. |
| US08918028B2 |
Toner conveying path forming member, toner replenishment unit, and image forming apparatus
A toner conveying path forming member forms a toner conveying path with a hollow capable of conveying toner. The toner conveying path forming member includes an inner wall a part of which is pressed by an elastic toner conveying member provided in the toner conveying path; and a protrusion that is provided on an inner wall surface of at least a part of the inner wall to protrude toward the hollow. |
| US08918024B2 |
Development device
A development device having: a main unit having formed therein a first space and a second space extending in a first direction perpendicular to a vertical direction, a first communicating portion and a second communicating portion that allow the first space and the second space to communicate with each other at both ends in the first direction; a first stirring member that extends in the first direction within the first space; a second stirring member that is positioned within the first space between the first stirring member and the second space and extends in the first direction; a conveyance member that extends in the first direction within the second space; and a developer support member that extends in the first direction within the second space. |
| US08918020B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes a first detection portion at a first guide provided in an image forming unit and a second detection portion at a second guide provided in a unit drawable to the exterior of the image forming apparatus. Since there are many parts in this apparatus, an error in the relative positions of the first and the second detection portions is large. The image forming apparatus includes a lock member configured to lock the unit to an image forming apparatus main body, and a pressure member configured to, when the unit is locked to the image forming apparatus main body, press the first guide and the second guide to each other. As a result, adjustment of the relative positions of the first and the second detection portions is not required at the time of replacement of the unit or the detection portions. |
| US08918019B2 |
Developer cartridge having developing roller
The developer cartridge includes a developing roller, a supply roller, an input gear, a developing roller gear, a supply roller gear, a first intermediate gear, and a second intermediate gear. The input gear is inputted with a drive force from an outside. The developing roller gear rotates about a first axis to drive the developing roller by the drive force. The supply roller gear rotates about a second axis parallel to the first axis to drive the supply roller by the drive force. The first intermediate gear rotates about the second axis. The first intermediate gear engages the input gear to receive the drive force therefrom. The second intermediate gear is engaged with the first intermediate gear and the developing roller gear so as to transmit the drive force from the first intermediate gear to the developing roller gear. |
| US08918018B2 |
Image forming apparatus having regulating mechanism for positioning exposure mechanism
There is provided an image forming apparatus including a main apparatus body, a photoconductor, an exposure mechanism, a frame, and a regulating mechanism. The regulating mechanism includes a fixing member, a movable member, and a biasing member. The frame includes a first contacting surface. The exposure mechanism includes second and third contacting surfaces, and the fixing member includes a fourth contacting surface, first and second facing surfaces. The movable member includes third and fourth facing surfaces. When the exposure mechanism is disposed at the approach position, the biasing member allows the second and third facing surfaces to make a contact with the second and third contacting surfaces, respectively. When the exposure mechanism is disposed at the separation position, the biasing member allows the first and fourth facing surfaces to make a contact with the first and fourth contacting surfaces, respectively. |
| US08918012B2 |
Image forming apparatus including a casing and a process cartridge detachably attachable to the casing
An image forming apparatus includes a casing having an opening that is open upward, a cover configured to open and close the opening, a process cartridge, and a guide. The guide is configured to guide the process cartridge in the casing while changing a position of the process cartridge. The process cartridge includes a photosensitive member, a first guided portion and a second guided portion. The guide includes a first guide configured to guide the first guided portion and a second guide configured to guide the second guided portion. The second guide has an upper portion disposed on an upstream side in an attaching direction of the process cartridge, and a lower portion extending smoothly from a lower end of the upper portion to a stop position in which the second guided portion is disposed. The lower portion is curved away from the first guide. |
| US08918010B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus is provided. The image forming apparatus includes an outer housing, a cover openeably/closably mounted at the outer housing, an optical scanning device including a light transmissive member configured to transmit laser light, a cleaning member configured to clean the light transmissive member, and an interlocking mechanism. The interlocking mechanism moves the cleaning member in conjunction with opening/closing of the cover. |
| US08918009B2 |
Image forming apparatus having a window open-closing shutter
An image forming apparatus includes a main body of the image forming apparatus; at least one image forming unit disposed in the main body; a light scanning unit that is disposed in the main body and scans light to form an electrostatic latent image on a photosensitive medium of the at least one image forming unit; a window open-closing shutter that is disposed to slidably move on a surface of the light scanning unit from which light emits, and moves between an open position where a light moving path is opened and a blocking position where the light moving path is blocked; a shutter operating lever that is disposed in the main body, and activates the window open-closing shutter to be positioned at either of the open position and the blocking position; and a pressure member that is disposed in the main body and presses the shutter operating lever. |
| US08918007B2 |
Voltage generating device and image forming apparatus including the same
A power supply apparatus outputs a developing voltage in which a pulse wave shape at a time of positive amplitude is different from a pulse wave shape at a time of negative amplitude. Voltages are supplied from two switching regulators respectively to a bridge circuit for driving a transformer. Here, an absolute value of a difference between a drive frequency of a first switching regulator and a drive frequency of a second switching regulator is configured to be not less than an invisible frequency at which a banding cannot be recognized by humans. |
| US08918001B2 |
Fixing apparatus
A fixing apparatus includes: two rotatable members, for forming a nip, including a region where an outer diameter is increased from a longitudinal central portion toward a longitudinal end portion; a heater; and a controller for controlling a heat generation distribution of the heater. The controller is capable of controlling the heater so that the heat generation distribution of the heater is such that a heat generation amount at the longitudinal end portion is larger than that at the longitudinal central portion in a period from start of the heater until the recording material reaches the nip. A ratio of the heat generation amount at the longitudinal end portion to that at the longitudinal central portion is larger when a cumulative amount of use of the fixing apparatus is larger than a predetermined amount than when the cumulative amount of use is smaller than the predetermined amount. |
| US08917996B2 |
Simplified serial data over optical fiber for remote receiver/sensor applications
Embodiments of the concepts, systems, and techniques disclosed herein are directed to an optically powered, direct-sampling, analog-to-digital converter (ADC) that provides fully formatted, serialized data for transmission over optical fiber from a remote location. Such a system and method of use thereof requires less electrical power, fewer components, and less complexity than previous systems and methods and achieves an all-optical-fiber implementation that provides complete electrical and electromagnetic interference (EMI) isolation for the remote ADC. These concepts, systems, and techniques simplify the overall remote sensing architecture by locating the ADC near the sensor and transferring pure digitized signals back to the processor. |
| US08917995B1 |
Balloon envelope with integrated receiver
A balloon envelope with an integrated receiver. In an example embodiment, a balloon includes: (i) an envelope including one or more signal passing sections, each of the one or more signal-passing sections being configured to allow a signal to pass through; (ii) at least one signal receiver corresponding to a particular one of the one or more signal passing sections; and (iii) at least one signal-directing surface located within the envelope and corresponding to the particular one of the one or more signal-passing sections, the at least one signal-directing surface being configured to receive the signal and direct the signal towards the at least one signal receiver. |
| US08917994B2 |
Wavelength path multiplexing and demultiplexing optical transmission apparatus
A sending apparatus includes: a wavelength path multiplexing part; a sending wavelength path selection part; and an optical transmitter having optical sending parts. The wavelength path multiplexing part includes: sending wavelength path demultiplexing ports; and sending wavelength multiplexing ports connected thereto. The sending wavelength path multiplexing ports are connected to optical transmission paths respectively. The sending wavelength path selection part includes a wavelength multiplexing parts which multiplexing a set combination of optical signals among the optical signals inputted to the sending input ports and outputs it to any of the sending output ports. In the wavelength path sending or receiving by the wavelength path multiplexing/demultiplexing optical transmission apparatus, a non-selectable combination between a wavelength and a route can be avoided. |
| US08917990B2 |
Fast protection scheme for passive optical network
The present invention relates to a method and devices for fast protection of an optical network system, in particular for a Passive Optical Network (PON), such as a Gigabit-capable Passive Optical Network (GPON). In the method, it is detected that the communication from a first optical network device is lost. Switching of functionality is initiated from a first optical line termination device to a second optical line termination device, and a control message is sent from the second optical line termination device to the first optical network device such that the first optical network device is prevented from moving into initial state. Furthermore, the method comprises determining and setting timing settings for the first optical network device. |
| US08917987B2 |
Method and apparatus for detecting branch fibers, and passive optical network
A method for detecting branch fibers is provided, which includes: sending test signals to a plurality of branch fibers, where the test signals are added at ports of the optical splitting module with identification information for identifying branch fibers connected to the ports and receiving a reflection signal added with the identification information of a detected branch fiber, identifying the detected branch fiber corresponding to the reflection signal through detecting the identification information added to the reflection information, and obtaining channel characteristics of the detected branch fiber according to the reflection signal. Further, a system and an apparatus for detecting branch fibers are provided. |
| US08917985B2 |
Imaging apparatus
An imaging apparatus 10 comprises a lower housing 11, an upper housing 21, a lower LCD 12, an upper LCD 22, an inner camera 23, and a microphone. The upper housing 21 has a lower side which is connected to an upper side of the lower housing 11 such that the lower housing 11 and the upper housing 21 are foldable. The lower LCD 12 has a display screen which is provided in an inner surface of the lower housing 11 when folded. The upper LCD 22 has a display screen which is provided in an inner surface of the upper housing 21 when folded. The imaging section is provided in the inner surface of the upper housing 22 and between the display screen of the lower LCD 12 and the display screen of the upper LCD 22. The microphone is provided in the inner housing of the upper housing 21 and between the display screen of the lower LCD 12 and the display screen of the upper LCD 22. |
| US08917983B2 |
Image-pickup apparatus, lens unit, control method of the image-pickup apparatus, control method of the lens unit, and image-pickup system
An image-pickup apparatus to which a lens unit that includes an image-pickup optical system including a focus lens is attachable includes an image sensor configured to photoelectrically convert an object image formed via the lens unit that has been attached, and to generate an image signal, and a controller configured to generate information on driving of the focus lens in the lens unit based upon the image signal and to provide focus control, the controller communicating data with the lens unit, wherein the controller transmits information on a driving target position of the focus lens to the lens unit in a first control, and transmits information on a driving direction and driving speed of the focus lens to the lens unit in a second control different from the first control. |
| US08917977B2 |
Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and program
A data recording/playback configuration whereby data compatible with a standard such as the BD standard, AVCHD standard, or the like, and data incompatible with a standard are usable is realized. In the event that recorded data is data compatible with a standard such as the BD standard, AVCHD standard, or the like at the time of data recording processing as to a medium, the management information of the data is recorded in a first management information file only for data compatible with a standard, and in the event that the recorded data is data incompatible with a standard, the management information of the data is recorded in a second management information file. Also, management information updating processing for recording all of management information recorded in the first management information file in the second management information file is performed. An existing device which executes only processing as to data compatible with a standard performs processing by applying first management information, and a new-type device which can perform processing as to data incompatible with a standard can play all of data by processing to which second management information has been applied. |
| US08917976B2 |
Information processor, information processing method, and program
An information processor includes: a recording portion configured to record a table describing a correspondence relationship between reproduction information in accordance with which reality information as reality of contents is specified to be reproduced and which is adapted to share the same reality information with any other suitable reproduction information, and the reality information to which the reproduction information refers, with respect to all of pieces of reproduction information recorded in a recording medium, in one file; a deleting portion configured to delete the reproduction information instructed; and an updating portion configured to update the table when the reproduction information is deleted. |
| US08917973B2 |
Digital video recording system and its recording medium
In a DVD recording/playback system, a set top box STB receives an MPEG transport stream constituted by a plurality of transport packets, and a formatter extracts support information indicating if management information included in the transport packets includes predetermined items. A disc drive that records data on a recording medium having a management area and data area records the support information in the management area. |
| US08917966B2 |
Cable enclosure systems, plugs and methods for using the same
An enclosure system for receiving a cable includes an enclosure having an inner chamber and an open position exposing the inner chamber and a closed position covering the inner chamber. A cable receiving port in a wall of the enclosure extends along a longitudinal axis from outside of the enclosure into the inner chamber. The cable receiving port is configured to receive a cable therein when the cable is advanced axially into the port without rotation of the cable when the enclosure is in the closed position. A mating member is associated with the cable receiving port that limits rotation of the cable when the cable is advanced axially into the port. An axial retention member is associated with the cable receiving port that limits axial movement of the cable out of the port when the cable is advanced axially into the port to a lock position. |
| US08917964B2 |
Composite communications cables having a fiber optic component located adjacent an outer surface of the central conductor of a coaxial cable component and related methods
Composite communications cable are provided that include a central conductor, a dielectric spacer that substantially surrounds the central conductor, an outer conductor that substantially surrounds the dielectric spacer, a jacket that surrounds the outer conductor and a non-buffered optical fiber positioned between the central conductor and the dielectric spacer. An outer surface of the non-buffered optical fiber is within 50 microns of the outer surface of the central conductor. The positioning of the optical fiber adjacent an outer surface of the central conductor may protect the optical fiber from damage. |
| US08917959B2 |
Analyzing element and analyzing apparatus using same
An analyzing element (10) is provided with a sample chamber (11) into which a gas or liquid sample is introduced; detection light waveguides (12a, 12b) arranged adjacent to the sample chamber (11) for guiding detection light for detecting a sample; and a detection light inputting section (13) for inputting the detection light, which is traveling in a direction along the detection light waveguides (12a, 12b), into the detection light waveguides (12a, 12b) from the end surface of the detection light waveguides (12a, 12b). The detection light waveguides (12a, 12b) have an exposed surface (14) exposed in the sample chamber (11). |
| US08917958B2 |
Electrical waveguide transmission device for use with a mach-zehnder optical modulator
An electrical waveguide transmission device accepts a differential electrical input signal (e.g., S+ and S−) propagating along two separate signal conductors with grounded electrical return paths, and outputs the differential input signal to a series push-pull traveling wave electrode Mach-Zehnder optical modulator over a pair of output conductors that act as a return path for each other and provide a desired characteristic impedance matching that of the Mach-Zehnder optical modulator. |
| US08917956B1 |
Enhancing spatial resolution of an image
A method of enhancing spatial resolution of an image. An image is accessed. The image comprises a set of confident pixels and an unconfident pixel positioned adjacent to each confident pixel of the set of confident pixels. The set of confident pixels comprises four or fewer pixels and corresponds to a plurality of known depth values, the unconfident pixel comprises an unknown depth value. A best depth hypothesis for the unconfident pixel is determined using a filter module in which the plurality of known depth values are used as depth hypotheses. The unconfident pixel is updated as a confident pixel using the best depth hypothesis. |
| US08917955B2 |
Method and system for processing video data in a multipixel memory to memory compositor
A method and system for processing video data using multi-pixel scaling in a memory system are provided. The multi-pixel scaling may include reading pixel data for one or more data streams from the memory system into one or more scalers, wherein each of the plurality of data streams includes a plurality of pixels, scaling the pixel via the one or more scalers and outputting the scaled pixels from the one or more scalers. Pixel data may be sequential or parallel. The plurality of scalers may be in parallel, scaling sequential pixel data with independent phase control, or scaling parallel pixel data in substantially equal phase. Pixel data may be transposed, replicated, distributed and aligned prior to reading by scalers, and may be aligned merged and transposed after scaling. Scaling may include interpolation or sub sampling using pixel phase, position, step size and scaler quantities. |
| US08917951B1 |
Method of on-the-fly image stitching
The presently claimed invention provides a method for stitching a plurality of images together in a way with least memory and CPU usage, and minimum file input and output, while still possessing fast computation speed to avoid post-scan delay for whole slide viewing and good stitching quality. The method of the present invention comprises the steps of calculating featureness of each candidate strip of a image by applying a mathematical transformation, calculating offset of the strip with correlation maximum location, calculating stitching reliability of the candidate strip from the pre-defined weighted function of its featureness and the correlation coefficients of each matching block, and determining optimal stitching path with stitching reliability. |
| US08917950B2 |
Simplifying parametric loop filters
A simplified parametric loop filter uses a set of fixed filters to remove or reduce noise and artifacts introduced during video coding. The simplified parametric loop filter uses the parameters such as direction and bandwidth to uniquely identify a fixed filter from the set of filters. The simplified parametric loop filter implements symmetry between filters, symmetry within each filter, unity DC gain and zero-forcing to 1) reduce the storage space in memorizing the fixed filters, and 2) reduce the computational complexity for performing filtering. |
| US08917948B2 |
High-quality denoising of an image sequence
A method, system, and computer-readable storage medium are disclosed for denoising an image sequence. A first patch is determined in a first frame in an image sequence comprising a plurality of frames. The first patch comprises a subset of image data in the first frame. Locations of a plurality of corresponding patches are determined in a neighboring set of the plurality of frames. One or more neighboring related patches are determined for each of the plurality of corresponding patches in a same frame as the respective one of the corresponding patches. A denoised first patch is generated by averaging image data in the one or more neighboring related patches in the neighboring set of the plurality of frames. |
| US08917946B2 |
Image coding method, image decoding method, image coding apparatus, image decoding apparatus, and image coding and decoding apparatus
The image coding method is used to code images to generate a coded stream. The image coding method includes: writing, into a sequence parameter set in the coded stream to be generated, a first parameter representing a first bit-depth that is a bit-depth of a reconstructed sample in the images; and writing, into the sequence parameter set, a second parameter which is different from the first parameter and represents a second bit-depth that is a bit-depth of an Intra Pulse Code Modulation (IPCM) sample in the images. |
| US08917941B2 |
System and method for shape measurements on thick MPR images
A method for measuring shapes in thick multi-planar reformatted (MPR) digital images, including identifying a shape in a digital MPR image, scan-converting points corresponding to the identified shape on a starting plane of an MPR slab in an image volume from which the MPR was obtained to generate a plurality of starting points for the identified shape, calculating an end point in the MPR slab corresponding to each starting point, propagating a ray from each starting point to each corresponding end point, accumulating samples along each ray, and computing a desired measurement value from the accumulated samples after reaching the end point for all rays. |
| US08917938B2 |
Method for estimating blur degree of image and method for evaluating image quality
A method for estimating blur degree of image and a method for evaluating image quality are revealed. First, an input image is transmitted to an image processing device for producing a synthesized blur image including a nonlinear image sensing function according to a pixel intensity distribution parameter of the input image. Next, the image processing device matches the pixel intensity distribution according to the input image and the synthesized blur image for producing a blur degree parameter; By the way, the image processing device further estimating an estimated blur result according to the blur degree parameter. The method for estimating blur degree of image can be further applied to estimate blur distribution for a plurality of regions of interest of a plurality of input images. Thereby, the blur distribution of the input images can be estimated, and thus further evaluating the image quality of the plurality of input images. |
| US08917937B2 |
Methods and apparatus for identifying primary media content in a post-production media content presentation
Methods and apparatus for identifying primary media content in a post-production media content presentation are disclosed. An example computer-implemented method to detect primary media content included in a secondary media content presentation disclosed herein comprises determining a first image corresponding to the secondary media content presentation, the first image comprising a plurality of image subregions, each image subregion representative of an inter-frame variation associated with a corresponding subregion of the secondary media content presentation, selecting a region of the first image comprising a plurality of connected image subregions of the first image together exhibiting a first type of inter-frame variation, and when a shape of the selected region of the first image corresponds to a predefined shape, processing a region of the first captured image corresponding to the selected region of the first synthetic image to identify the primary media content. |
| US08917934B2 |
Multi-cue object detection and analysis
Foreground objects of interest are distinguished from a background model by dividing a region of interest of a video data image into a grid array of individual cells that are each smaller than that a foreground object of interest. More particularly, image data of the foreground object of interest spans a contiguous plurality of the cells. Each of the cells are labeled as foreground if accumulated edge energy within the cell meets an edge energy threshold, if color intensities for different colors within each cell differ by a color intensity differential threshold, or as a function of combinations of said determinations in view of one or more combination rules. |
| US08917933B2 |
Mesh collision avoidance
The invention relates to a system for segmenting an object in image data using model-based image segmentation. The system comprises a feature unit for identifying features in the image data for computing an external energy of a mesh on the basis of a current position of the mesh. The feature unit further comprises a candidate feature unit for selecting a plurality of candidate features in the image data. The feature unit further comprises a position unit for determining a position of each candidate feature of the plurality of the candidate features relative to a region of the image data. The feature unit further comprises a feature function unit for computing a strength of each candidate feature. The feature unit further comprises an evaluation unit for evaluating each candidate feature of the plurality of candidate features and for identifying the feature among the plurality of candidate features based on this evaluation. |
| US08917932B2 |
Method of predicting perceptual differences between memory and directly viewed colors in video
Disclosed is a processor for predicting perceptual differences between colors recalled from memory and directly viewed colors in a tested video. The processor includes a memory effects processor structured to generate compensation factors for distortions of color due to memory effects and apply the compensation factors to data from the reference video or data from the tested video. The compensation factors may include factors for changes in saturation over time, changes in hue angle, changes in uncertainty, and a categorization factor that reflects a trend in shifts and towards cardinal color centroids over time in memory. |
| US08917930B2 |
Selecting metrics for substrate classification
Methods for selecting metrics for substrate classification, and apparatus to perform such methods. The methods include determining a value of a metric from an image of a substrate sample for each substrate sample of a plurality of substrate samples, wherein the metric is indicative of a surface texture of each substrate sample and iteratively assigning substrate samples of the plurality of substrate samples to an aggregate of a particular number of aggregates in response to a value of the metric for each substrate sample until a convergence of clustering is deemed achieved, then determining an indication of cluster tightness of the particular number of aggregates. The methods further include selecting or ignoring the metric for substrate classification in response to the indication of cluster tightness of the particular number of aggregates. |
| US08917929B2 |
Image processing apparatus, method, program, and recording medium
Extracting information corresponding to a three-dimensional object from an image captured by plural imaging apparatuses is implemented with simple configuration and processing. Parallax information representing a parallax amount in the X direction of a pair of images captured by a pair of imaging apparatuses disposed at different horizontal positions is stored in a storage section, and a parallax correction control section reads out a parallax amount corresponding to a Y coordinate value of image data for one line input from a pre-image processing unit from the storage section and outputs a selection signal to selectors such that the output of one image data is delayed by the differential amount. A differential image generation unit calculates an absolute value of the differential of the pair of input image data for each pixel and outputs the result as a differential image for detecting the three-dimensional object. |
| US08917928B2 |
System and method for radiographing information management and recording medium storing program therefor
A search processing unit of a central server searches for radiographing information matched with a designated radiographing part, among all items of the radiographing information of a medical facility having radiographing information matched with a detection device ID from a storage device. A sorting unit performs classification into medical facilities (first group), in which the radiation dose after an X-ray image detection device of the designated detection device ID is introduced has changed from that before the introduction, and medical facilities (second group) in which the radiation dose after the X-ray image detection device of the designated detection device ID is introduced has not changed. A statistical data generation unit generates a histogram, in which the range of radiation dose is set as the class on the horizontal axis and the number of medical facilities is set as the frequency on the vertical, for each of first and second groups. |
| US08917925B1 |
Systems and methods for data and model-driven image reconstruction and enhancement
Systems and methods are disclosed for image reconstruction and enhancement, using a computer system. One method includes acquiring a plurality of images associated with a target anatomy; determining, using a processor, one or more associations between subdivisions of localized anatomy of the target anatomy identified from the plurality of images, and local image regions identified from the plurality of images; performing an initial image reconstruction based on image acquisition information of the target anatomy; and updating the initial image reconstruction or generating a new image reconstruction based on the image acquisition information and the one or more determined associations. |
| US08917920B2 |
Image processing apparatus, image processing method, and computer program product
An image processing apparatus for performing an image processing on a body cavity image captured in a living body includes: a storage unit which stores information including image information of the body cavity image; a change amount calculator which reads out the image information of the body cavity image from the storage unit and calculates, in the read body cavity image, a pixel value change amount of a pixel of interest with a plurality of surrounding pixels located around the pixel of interest; and a candidate lesion region detector which detects a candidate lesion region in the body cavity image based on a calculation result of the change amount calculator. |
| US08917911B2 |
Method and apparatus for local binary pattern based facial feature localization
Various methods for local binary pattern based facial feature localization. One example method includes determining an eye state classification of an input image. The example method may also include selecting a texture model for a global shape and an associated mean shape based on eye center positions and the eye state classification, and adjusting locations of feature points defined by the mean shape based on the texture model for the global shape and an associated global shape model. Similar and related example methods and example apparatuses are also provided. |
| US08917907B2 |
Continuous linear dynamic systems
Aspects of the present invention include systems and methods for segmentation and recognition of action primitives. In embodiments, a framework, referred to as the Continuous Linear Dynamic System (CLDS), comprises two sets of Linear Dynamic System (LDS) models, one to model the dynamics of individual primitive actions and the other to model the transitions between actions. In embodiments, the inference process estimates the best decomposition of the whole sequence into continuous alternating between the two set of models, using an approximate Viterbi algorithm. In this way, both action type and action boundary may be accurately recognized. |
| US08917906B2 |
Method and apparatus for motion recognition
A motion recognition apparatus is provided. The motion recognition apparatus includes an event sensor configured to sense a portion of an object, where a motion occurs, and output events, a color sensor configured to photograph the object and output a color image, a motion area check unit configured to check a motion area which refers to an area where the motion occurs, using spatiotemporal correlations of the events, a shape recognition unit configured to recognize color information and shape information of an area corresponding to the motion area in the color image, a motion estimation unit configured to estimate a motion trajectory using the motion area, the color information, and the shape information, and an operation pattern determination unit configured to determine an operation pattern of the portion where the motion occurs, based on the estimated motion trajectory. |