Document | Document Title |
---|---|
US08939417B1 |
Mounting systems for electronic devices
Mounts can hold electronic devices. Some mounts can attach digital media players to a wall, such as a wall of a home or a backside of a television. In some embodiments, mounts include a tray with side walls that hold electronic devices at least partially inside the mounts. In several embodiments, mounts include flexible necks connected to adhesive surfaces. The flexible necks can flex independently of each other to enable a mount to attach electronic devices to a wall that is not flat. |
US08939413B2 |
Seal support system
A seal support system for a device for sealing an item of rotating equipment, including a device for generating air movement, includes a vessel for holding fluid for supplying to the sealing device. The system further includes an adjustable stand on which the vessel is mounted and a device for deflecting air along a path into which the vessel can be positioned. |
US08939412B2 |
Train-position locating device and train-position locating method
A train-position locating device includes an onboard control device incorporated in a train and a ground control device installed on a ground. The onboard control device decides a track on which a train is present based on position information and a result of a nearest track search, transmits identification information for identifying the own train and track information to the ground control device, and shifts to an onboard-oriented train control mode when receiving a response indicating “position is located” from the ground control device. The ground control device transmits a response indicating “tentative position is normal” to the onboard control device when another train located to be present on a track is not present on the tentative position, and transmits the response indicating “position is located” to the onboard control device when a change from a previous track to the changed track is correct. |
US08939406B2 |
Joining composite fuselage sections along window belts
A fuselage having a longitudinal window belt has a composite outer skin including upper and lower composite skin sections. The skin includes at least one window opening located at the window belt. The upper and lower skin sections are joined together by a longitudinal splice joint located at the window belt. |
US08939397B2 |
Aircraft capable of hovering having an exhaust duct with thermoelectric conversion circuit
An aircraft, capable of hovering, having drive means; and at least one exhaust duct connected to an outlet of the drive means to expel the exhaust gas, produced by fuel combustion, from the aircraft. At least part of the exhaust duct has a thermoelectric conversion circuit for Seebeck-effect converting to electric energy the thermal gradient produced between the inside and outside of the exhaust duct by flow of the exhaust gas. |
US08939395B2 |
Tail fan apparatus and method for low speed yaw control of a rotorcraft
Apparatus and methods for controlling yaw of a rotorcraft in the event of one or both of low airspeed and engine failure are disclosed. A yaw propulsion provides a yaw moment at low speeds. The yaw propulsion device may be an air jet or a fan. A pneumatic fan may be driven by compressed air released into a channel surrounding an outer portion of the fan. The fan may be driven by hydraulic power. Power for the yaw propulsion device and other system may be provided by a hydraulic pump and/or generator engaging the rotor. Low speed yaw control may be provided by auxiliary rudders positioned within the stream tube of a prop. The auxiliary rudders may one or both of fold down and disengage from rudder controls when not in use. |
US08939389B2 |
Block ice shaver
The disclosure pertains generally to shave ice confection machines and processes, and more particularly to a block ice shaving apparatus, system and method whereby an improved blade and blade assembly produce more consistent output with increase machine life. |
US08939387B2 |
Spray gun
A spray gun, which is convertible for use with and without an extension wand, may use the valve mechanism and nozzle attached adjacent to the handle of the gun. When spraying requires the spray to be released away from the gun handle and for spot applications of the spraying liquid, the spraying nozzle is removed and the extension wand or tube is attached to the gun handle. The valve assembly remains in place and another valve assembly and nozzle is provided at the end of the extension furthest away from the handle. A rod is attached to and extends between the valves so that they both move together from closed to open positions responsive to the trigger of the spray gun. When the valves are closed, there is no spraying liquid in the extension. The valving is dripless both with and without the extension. |
US08939384B1 |
Planetary gear drive rotor-type sprinkler with adjustable arc/full circle selection mechanism
An irrigation sprinkler includes a riser and a nozzle turret rotatably mounted at an upper end of the riser. A drive assembly is supported in the riser and is coupled to the nozzle turret for rotating the nozzle turret. The drive assembly has a reversing planetary gear drive, a reversing mechanism, and a manually adjustable arc setting mechanism including a pair of arc tabs. A position of one of the arc tabs is adjustable through the arc setting mechanism to change a size of an angle through which the nozzle turret oscillates back and forth. The manually adjustable arc setting mechanism is further adjustable to allow the nozzle turret to continuously rotate. |
US08939378B2 |
Smartcard connector with RFID module
The present invention relates to a smartcard connector with RFID module, wherein the smartcard connector is integrated with a RFID module for providing the functions of radio frequency identification and smartcard reading simultaneously. The smartcard connector with RFID module comprises a base having a card slot for receiving a smartcard, and the four corners on upper surface of the base have four support portions; a wave absorption material positioned on top of the upper surface of the base; a RFID module positioned on top of the four support portions of the base and spaced from the wave absorption material with a predetermined interval; a first transmission element connected to one side of the base; and a second transmission element connected to one side of the RFID module. |
US08939376B1 |
Encoding of microcarriers
Encoded microcarriers, and more specifically microcarriers having codes written on them. Methods for writing the codes on the microcarriers, methods of reading the codes, and methods of using the encoded microcarriers. A preferred method of encoding the microcarriers involves exposing microcarriers containing a bleachable substance to a high spatial resolution light source to bleach the codes on the microcarriers. The encoded microcarriers may be used, for example, as support materials in chemical and biological assays and syntheses. |
US08939375B2 |
Magnetic stripe reader apparatus
A magnetic stripe reader apparatus comprises a first casing, a second casing, a magnetic stripe reader unit, and at least a connecting element. The first casing has an opening, a first positioning portion, and an adjustable fixing portion. The second casing has a second positioning portion disposed corresponding to the first positioning portion, and a through hole disposed corresponding to the adjustable fixing portion. The magnetic stripe reader unit is disposed between the first and second casings, and has a magnetic stripe reader head and a fixing element disposed on a side of the magnetic stripe reader head. In assembly, the connecting element passes through the through hole and connects to the adjustable fixing portion to fix the first and second casings. The second positioning portion and the first positioning portions hold the fixing element, and the magnetic stripe reader head is exposed from the opening. |
US08939372B2 |
Mobile terminal and decoding method thereof
A mobile terminal and a decoding method thereof are disclosed. The decoding method comprises: capturing an image of a target barcode; invoking built-in decoding software to decode the target barcode; determining whether the decoding is successful, wherein if the decoding is successful, then barcode information of the target barcode is displayed and the process ends; and otherwise, if the decoding is unsuccessful, then the target barcode is sent to a decoding server; receiving barcode information obtained by the decoding server through decoding the target barcode; and displaying the barcode information of the target barcode. In this way, the present disclosure can decode various types of barcodes quickly and effectively so that the user can be informed of the barcode information of the various types of barcodes quickly and accurately. |
US08939359B2 |
Game access device with time varying signal
Systems and methods for controlling access to wireless gaming devices and networks are provided. For example, access is controlled through one or more levels of security checks, such as a hard security check instead of or in addition to a soft security check. In a hard security check, the user employs an apparatus such as a card or other physical token that can be used to access the wireless gaming device. Such an apparatus may communicate information that identifies the user to the device or may simply be used to produce a signal without which the device is locked to users. The apparatus may further emit a time varying signal to enhance security. |
US08939358B2 |
System controlled responsive to data bearing records and operative to cause financial transfers
An automated banking machine operates responsive to data bearing records to cause financial transfers. The automated banking machine includes a card reader operative to data card read from user cards. The machine is operative to cause financial transfers responding at least in part to a determination that the read card data corresponds to at least one of an authorized user or an authorized financial account. The automated banking machine includes a display and a printer to produce records of financial transfers carried out with the machine. The automated banking machine includes a housing including a chest. The automated banking machine may also includes a blast resistant and dispersement accessory in operatively supported connection with the chest. |
US08939357B1 |
System and method for combining disparate commercial transactions under a single identification mechanism
A single swipe system is constructed that allows a person to use a single financial card to receive loyalty benefits (or conduct other non-payment operations) concurrently with a payment transaction. In one embodiment, the user simply swipes his/her financial card and the processing system then concurrently processes a non-payment transaction along with a payment transaction. In some situations, the non-payment transaction can be blended into the payment transaction to allow for discounts and other awards from one or more databases other than the payment processing database. In one embodiment, a single swipe of a financial card connects the consumer with one or more loyalty systems and the consumer can select from the ones desired during the course of payment processing. Discounts and other advantages can be applied to the payment transaction, all based upon a single entry of the consumer's ID. |
US08939356B2 |
Portable prescription payment device management platform apparautses, methods and systems
The PORTABLE PRESCRIPTION PAYMENT DEVICE MANAGEMENT PLATFORM APPARATUSES, METHODS AND SYSTEMS (“PPD”) provides a portable coupon payment device includes a substrate having surface with an image rendering thereon that corresponds to a free sample. The portable coupon payment device also has memory, in contact with the substrate, having data encoded therein including (i) an identifier for the free sample, (ii) a quantity for the free sample; (iii) a sponsor company account for a selling merchant to charge the cost of the free sample for payment to a selling merchant account to reimburse the selling merchant for the free sample; (iv) an image corresponding to the free sample; and (v) an identifier for a coupon provider donating the free sample to a consumer. |
US08939353B1 |
Personalized mailbox flag system
A personalized mailbox flag system for displaying a sports team logo or other design such as a seasonal symbol or religious symbol. A mailbox sleeve is mounted over an existing mailbox. A decorative component is disposed on the mailbox sleeve. A decorative component is also disposed on the flag, which can pivot about the mailbox sleeve. Disposed on the free end of the flag is a décor mount, which displays a decorative component. The décor mount can pivot so as to orient the decorative component such that onlookers can read it. |
US08939352B2 |
Tray, assembly of cardboard blanks, and device and method for forming such a tray
The invention relates to a cardboard tray made of three parts, to an assembly of blanks, and to a device and method for producing such a tray. The tray comprises a first part defining a bottom connected by first fold lines to two first opposite sidewalls and two second parts defining second opposite sidewalls, each comprising at least one longitudinal first flap connected to said second wall by a second fold line and glued on the bottom, and two sets of transverse flaps, each comprising at least one transverse flap glued to a first corresponding opposite side wall, respectively. |
US08939350B2 |
Reclosable and stackable food tray and tray blank
Disclosed are reclosable and stackable food trays formed from a single blank that are capable of being folded and glued on standard machinery. Embodiments of the invention include raised gussets that extend beyond the top edge of the side panels of the formed tray and beyond the top of the formed tray. In some embodiments, the raised gussets help prevent distortion in all dimensions and facilitate the stacking of multiple trays on top of one another such that the stacked trays cannot slide off the lower tray. |
US08939349B2 |
Disposable cup
The present invention relates to a cup with a built-in straw and a method of making it. The cup is made from a blank including a flat body portion having a top and bottom edge and two side edges. A first cut-away along the top edge of the body portion defines two portions along the side edges and extending beyond the top edge. A second cut-away is formed adjacent one of the side edges. The body portion is configured to be folded such that the first extending portion is in registration with the second extending portion, and a first side edge of the body portion engages an outer wall of the body portion while the second side edge engages an inner wall of the body portion, to form a cup body with a built-in straw on an inside wall of the cup body with the second cutaway inside the cup body. |
US08939338B2 |
Automatically-adjusting web media tensioning mechanism
An automatically-adjusting tensioning mechanism for use in a roll-fed web media transport system, the tensioning mechanism adding tension to the web media, comprising a bracket assembly being adapted to freely pivot around a pivot axis, and first and second tensioning shoe having curved surfaces attached to the bracket assembly. The web media feeds through the tensioning mechanism in an S-shaped media path where the web media is wrapped around the first and second tensioning shoes. The pivot angle of the bracket assembly automatically adjusts in response to differences in a coefficient of friction between the web media and the tensioning shoes such that the tension in the web media has a reduced level of variability relative to configurations where the bracket assembly is held in a fixed position. |
US08939336B2 |
Polycrystalline silicon portion and method for breaking a silicon body
The invention relates to a polycrystalline silicon portion having at least one fracture surface or cut surface, which includes metal contamination of from 0.07 ng/cm2 to 1 ng/cm2. The invention also relates to a method for breaking a silicon body, preferably a rod of polycrystalline silicon, including the steps: a) determining the lowest natural bending frequency of the silicon body; b) exciting the silicon body in its lowest natural bending frequency by means of an oscillation generator, the excitation being carried out at an excitation point of the silicon body such that the silicon body breaks at the excitation point; so that a silicon portion having a fracture surface results which includes metal contamination of from 0.07 ng/cm2 to 1 ng/cm2. |
US08939334B2 |
Holster clip for a concealed item
The present invention is a holster clip that allows conversion of most generic holsters into a concealable holster which allows a wearer to tuck a shirt or jacket within the waistband of the wearer's pants. The holster clip is fashioned in an “M” shape, with longer inner walls forming a deep passage to allow space for the shirt or jacket and a structure to form a pant clip between a first outer wall and a first inner wall. An alternate embodiment forms the clip from two pivoting or non-pivoting halves to allow for canting and color coordination for further camouflage of the holster. |
US08939333B2 |
Wrist holder for transporting and using electronic devices, with anti-electromagnetic radiation protection
It comprises a hollow box with openings for permitting operate most of its functions while the device is inside, open by one of its sides for introducing the device, an oscillating piece for closing the case, a pair of belts, a quick coupling system to connect the case and its base by way of a circular coupling that is part of the base, which will be attached to the wrist of the user, having in between an anti-radiation protection. Furthermore is suitable for devices with or without cover, in this latter case the openings are designed to be watertight by assembling some elements on them. |
US08939329B2 |
Sewage silo with centripetal action discharge arm
A sewage sludge silo is provided, having a central discharge arm for discharging sludge via a central discharge opening, by means of the discharge arm sweeping across a preferably sloped silo floor, with the discharge arm having upper and lower ends, with the lower end extending forward of the upper end in transverse generally vertical cross-section, as the discharge arm moves in a forward direction across the silo floor. The silo floor can be of multi-layer construction, with one of the layers being molded to facilitate a sloped configuration for the silo floor. The movement of a silo discharge arm can be computer controlled to adjust the speed of the discharge arm to maintain a predetermined or substantially constant rate of discharge of sludge from the silo, with such control being facilitated by appropriate sensor mechanisms. |
US08939328B2 |
Cleaning fluid cartridge
The cartridge 10 provides an inexpensive, effective, clean, reliable means of supplying pressurized cleaning fluid for two component applicators 14. The low friction piston 18 design reduces drag and provides consistent cleaning fluid 12 pressure. |
US08939327B2 |
Pump and bottle fitments and methods for using the same
A pump and container connector fitment system (210) for retaining a pump (200) on a container (120) and allowing the pump to be removed through rotational forces from the container. |
US08939325B2 |
Dispenser for a foaming liquid composition with improved foam recovery feature
A foaming pump mechanism for dispensing a foamable or foaming liquid composition, as well as dispensers for delivery of a foaming or foamable liquid composition therefrom which is operable by a non-contact interaction with the user. The foaming pump mechanism includes foam recovery. |
US08939317B2 |
Container body and its method of making
The present invention relates to a method of making a container body (8), comprising the steps of: i) providing a round container body (8); ii) forming at least one circumferential bead (2) in the container body (8); and iii) axially compressing the container body (8) to kink and axially close the kinked bead (10), and to such container body (8) and container comprising same. |
US08939316B2 |
Method for producing blow-molded containers and blow-molded container
A blow-molded container includes an opening section that can be closed, a side wall, and a closed bottom. The material in the region of the side wall is shaped by blow forming an injection-molded preform. At least three recessed grips are arranged along an outer perimeter of the container. At least two longitudinal ribs oriented in a longitudinal direction of the container are arranged between each pair of recessed grips. The longitudinal ribs are separated from each other by a recess, which also extends in a longitudinal direction. At least one circumferential rib, which extends in a circumferential direction of the container, is arranged inside each of the recessed grips. |
US08939313B2 |
Anodized clad copper cookware
An article of cookware has a copper core and is surrounded by relatively thinner outer aluminum layers. The outer aluminum layers are preferably anodized to provide a relatively inert hard and scratch resistant durable finish. This anodized finish also readily accepts non-stick finishes. |
US08939308B2 |
Full aperture beverage end
A full aperture beverage end has a center panel, a countersink surrounding the center panel, a main score arranged in proximity to the countersink to define a removable aperture panel and a vent score. The beverage end is adapted for use with products that are pressurized to over 30 psi (200 kPa) when opened, and during opening the vent score is adapted to sever first, controlling the pressure differential between the external surface and internal surface of the center panel, thereby allowing the main score to tear in a controlled and reliable manner. |
US08939303B2 |
Knock down wood box system
A knock down wood box system is a storage container system that is provided with an initial easily transportable disassembled configuration that is constructed into a sturdy assembled configuration without tools or adhesives. The knock down wood box system creates an enclosable storage compartment that can be collapsed when not in use such that it inhabits a much smaller amount of space. The knock down wood box system accomplishes this through the use of a plurality of panel sections that are particularly arranged to a plurality corner clips. The knock down wood box system in the assembled configuration may also serve as a decorative piece. Resultantly, it is also an object of the knock down wood box system to create a box that is aesthetically pleasing to the user. |
US08939301B1 |
Combination locking storage container
This invention pertains to a combination locking storage container consisting of a tray and a detachable combination locking cover assembly used to secure the contents held within. The tray has an integrally formed key post at its uppermost position. The tumblers of the cover assembly engage the key post and lock to it. When the indicia of the tumblers and correct unlocking code are in alignment with a marker, the cover assembly may be installed or removed. |
US08939300B2 |
Friction/elastomeric draft gear
A friction/elastomeric draft gear having a housing, a spring assembly arranged within the housing, and a friction clutch assembly having a wedge member and defining first sliding friction surface disposed at an angle θ relative to a longitudinal axis of the draft gear and a second friction surface disposed at an angle β relative to a longitudinal axis of the draft gear. The spring assembly is designed in combination with the angles θ and β of the first and second friction sliding surfaces relative to the longitudinal axis such that the draft gear consistently and repeatedly withstands between about 100 KJ and 130 KJ of energy imparted at less than three meganewtons over a range of travel of the wedge member in an inward axial direction relative to the draft gear housing not exceeding 120 mm. |
US08939295B2 |
Multi-layer, fluid transmissive fiber structures containing nanofibers and a method of manufacturing such structures
A multi-layer, fluid transmissive structure is provided that comprises first and second fiber layers each comprising a plurality of polymeric fibers bonded to each other at spaced apart contact points. The polymeric fibers of these fiber layers have diameters greater than one micron and collectively define interconnected interstitial spaces providing tortuous fluid flow paths through the first and second fiber layers. The structure also comprises a plurality of nanofibers disposed intermediate at least a portion of the first fiber layer and at least a portion of the second fiber layer. |
US08939293B2 |
Composite membrane with integral rim
Composite membranes that are adapted for separation, purification, filtration, analysis, reaction and sensing. The composite membranes can include a porous support structure having elongate pore channels extending through the support structure. The composite membrane also includes an active layer comprising an active layer material, where the active layer material is completely disposed within the pore channels between the surfaces of the support structure. The active layer is intimately integrated within the support structure, thus enabling great robustness, reliability, resistance to mechanical stress and thermal cycling, and high selectivity. Methods for the fabrication of composite membranes are also provided. |
US08939292B2 |
Screen machine, in particular star screen machine
The invention refers to a screening machine, in particular a star screening machine, comprising at least two driven shafts provided with stars and/or discs, the shafts being arranged in a screening plane parallel spaced to each other, wherein the stars and/or discs are provided on different shafts staggered or comb-like engaging with each other, with a hopper or filling area in which the material to be screened can be filled. Wherein on the side facing the filling area in a plane above the screening plane and spaced parallel from it two distribution devices are provided one after the other in the direction of screening or conveying for distributing the material to be screened on the screening plane. |
US08939291B2 |
Flotation reagent for iron ores containing magnetite and/or haematite
The present invention relates to a flotation reagent for iron ores containing magnetite and/or haematite and to the use of a composition containing A) at least one amine alkoxylate ester of formula (I) or a salt thereof, wherein A and B, independently of one another, represent a C2-C5 alkylene radical, R1 is a C8 to C24 alkyl or alkenyl radical, R2, R3 and R4, independently of one another, are H or a C8 to C24 acyl radical, with the proviso that at least one of the radicals R2, R3 or R4 stands for a C8 to C24 acyl radical, x, y and z, independently of one other, are an integer of from 0 to 50, with the proviso that x+y+z is an integer of from 1 to 100, and B) a compound of formula D-NH2, in which D stands for a hydrocarbon radical having from 1 to 50 carbon atoms, which can contain either an oxygen atom or an oxygen atom and a nitrogen atom, in amounts of 10 to 5.000 g/tonne as a collector in the reverse flotation of iron ore containing magnetite, haematite or both. |
US08939288B2 |
Packaging for cylindrical containers
A packaging including a grouping nest for receiving syringes, a packaging tub, and a sealing cover for sealing the packaging tub. The packaging includes a plate intended to be positioned close to the flanges of the syringes before sealing of the tub; this plate includes a plurality of first surfaces intended to be placed in contact with the flanges and a plurality of second surfaces located on the side of the cover plate opposite this plurality of first surfaces, the distance between the plurality of first surfaces and the plurality of second surfaces being chosen in such a way that, when the plurality of first surfaces lies against the flanges, the plurality of second surfaces is in contact or in close proximity to the sealing cover. |
US08939285B2 |
Display package for steering wheel lock
A display package for containing and displaying a steering wheel locking device having an elongate central tubular rod member and first and second pairs of spaced hooks connected to the tubular rod member includes a pair of generally equally sized, equally shaped front and rear panels that are superimposed and joined together to partially enclose a steering wheel locking device, the front and rear panels being configured to generally conform to the shape of the steering wheel locking device. Multiple packages can be stacked such that portions of adjacent steering wheel locks nest partially within one another and reduce otherwise wasted space between adjacent packages. |
US08939279B2 |
Modular conveying systems and methods
Various modular conveyors, conveying systems, conveyor modules, and methods are disclosed. In some embodiments, the conveyor comprises a module body and an upper member. The module body can be configured to receive one or more rolling elements. In some embodiments, the rolling elements protrude through openings in the module body and the upper member. In various embodiments, the rolling elements can be configured to engage a surface below the module body and/or an item on the conveyor, thereby facilitating multi-directional travel of the item. |
US08939270B2 |
Tabbed separation clutch plate
A multiplate clutch assembly for use in an automotive powertrain is provided that includes a first member, a second member, a plurality of first clutch plates attached to the first member, and a plurality of second clutch plates attached to the second member. The first and second clutch plates are disposed alternatively with one another. At least two of the first clutch plates have separator portions that are configured to contact each other and provide a separation force therebetween. A clutch plate is also provided that includes an annular main body portion defining an aperature therethrough and defining and outer edge and an inner edge. Separator teeth extend from a tooth edge, the tooth edge being one of the inner and outer edges of the main body portion. Each separator tooth is bent at an acute angle with respect to the main body portion. |
US08939269B2 |
Segmented friction material for clutches
A friction plate for a clutch assembly includes a core plate and a plurality of friction segments made of a friction material. A plurality of grooves are disposed between said plurality of friction segments. Each segment has tapered sides so that the grooves have a first width adjacent the outer diameter of the core plate and a smaller second width smaller adjacent the inner diameter of the core plate. This tapered groove structure directs oil from the outside the clutch assembly to the inside to improve cooling efficiency. |
US08939266B2 |
Composite brake disc
A brake disc arrangement has a mounting portion formed of a metal, with a plurality of radial protuberances extending radially outward therefrom. The radial protuberances each have a radially distal tip portion, and a ceramic coating is applied to the radially distal tip portion of the radial protuberances. The brake plate portion is cast so as to surround the radially distal tip portions. However, it is isolated therefrom by the ceramic coating. At least some of the radially distal tip portions are formed of metal having a microstructure created by electrical discharge machining to increase dampening. A sand core within a core box holds the mounting portion in a predetermined fixed orientation. The molten metal is poured into the core box mold, and the metal brake plate portion is prevented by the ceramic coating from welding to any of the plurality of radial protuberances. |
US08939263B2 |
Elevator system with assigned car confirmation
In an elevator system having a destination call registration device with which a user registers a destination call before boarding the elevator car and an assigned car confirming device with which a user makes sure of an assigned car by inputting his or her personal information when an elevator has been assigned to a destination call registered from the destination call registration device, information on an assigned car and personal information of a user are stored by associating these pieces of information with each other. An assigned car confirming device provides information on the assigned car to the user on the basis of the stored personal information. |
US08939261B2 |
Support element system for elevators
A support element system, particularly for elevators, has at least one support element having two load-bearing tensile carriers which are arranged horizontally adjacent to one another and which are enclosed in a common elastomeric casing separating the two tensile carriers. The tensile carriers respectively have an opposite direction of wrap. The system has a drive pulley for transmission of a drive force to the at least one support element, wherein the drive pulley has a contoured traction surface with two support surfaces, which are provided for transmission of the drive force and which co-operate with the support element. |
US08939260B2 |
Double-clutch transmission of a vehicle
A double clutch transmission of a vehicle having an internal combustion engine and a clutch chamber (3) which is designed as a first oil chamber, for accommodating a double clutch, and a transmission chamber (8) which is designed as a second oil chamber, for accommodating a double clutch transmission gear set. A partition wall (9) separates the oil chambers from one another. An oil pump (11) is positioned in the transmission chamber (8) and can be driven by a drive shaft (7) which extends through the partition wall (9) from the transmission chamber (8) into the clutch chamber (3). |
US08939258B2 |
Wind turbine for generating electric power
The invention relates to a wind turbine for generating electric power by an air stream (1) onto a rotor (48) rotatable about a rotor axis (2), said rotor comprising a plurality of rotor blades (3, 4) and being coupled via a rotor shaft (5) to a generator (6), wherein a primary transmission (8) is present between the rotor shaft (5) and generator input shaft (7) for multiplication of the rotational speed, wherein the pressure-feed or force-feed lubricating system of said main transmission comprising a lubricating pump (9) enables the supply to components (46, 47) subject to wear, wherein the wind turbine (10) has an emergency pump (11) for lubricant supply, which during normal operation of the wind turbine is not operational and during spinning operation and/or a power failure can be connected and which is operated by the rotating rotor (48). |
US08939253B1 |
System and method for suppression of unwanted noise in ground test facilities
Systems and methods for the suppression of unwanted noise from a jet discharging into a duct are disclosed herein. The unwanted noise may be in the form of excited duct modes or howl due to super resonance. A damper member is used to reduce acoustic velocity perturbations at the velocity anti-node, associated with the half-wave resonance of the duct, weakening the resonance condition and reducing the amplitudes of the spectral peaks. |
US08939252B2 |
Protective material for acoustic transmission
A protective material for acoustic transmission is disclosed which optimizes sound transmission of the material while also providing a barrier from ambient conditions to transducers. The protective material of the disclosure is a self-tensioning membrane with properties such that sound attenuation is minimized as the membrane transfers acoustic energy. In one embodiment, the self-tensioning membrane is used to cover an opening in an electronic device enclosure by securing the entire outer edge of the membrane with an adhesive. Such a construction creates an unbound region where the self-tensioning membrane can effectively transmit sound energy by moving in response to incoming sound waves. The self-tensioning membrane allows sound to travel out of the protective enclosure while also preventing liquid or particulate intrusion. |
US08939250B2 |
Self-powered apparatus
Self-powered apparatus are disclosed. An example apparatus includes a front chassis portion and a rear chassis portion. The front chassis portion is to be coupled to the rear chassis portion. The front chassis portion is substantially the same as the rear chassis portion. When the front and rear chassis portions are coupled, the front chassis portion includes a first end of the apparatus and the rear chassis portion includes a second end of the apparatus. |
US08939249B2 |
Vehicle hood hinge assembly for a pedestrian protection device
A hinge assembly including a vehicle body hinge member configured to be connected with a vehicle body and a hood hinge member configured to be connected with a vehicle hood. The vehicle body hinge member and the hood hinge member are pivotally connected so the hood can be opened for servicing and closed for driving. In one embodiment, a pedestrian protection device includes a bracket movable between an extended position in which a rear portion of the vehicle hood is in an elevated position and a retracted position in which the rear portion of the vehicle hood is in a drivable position. A shear pin extends through the bracket for maintaining the bracket in the retracted position until a threshold force is applied to the bracket. The device includes an actuator configured to apply at least the threshold force to shear the shear pin, thereby moving the bracket to the extended position. A reset latch relocks the bracket in the retracted position after the shear pin has been sheared. |
US08939248B2 |
Utility vehicle transmission controls with common pivot shaft
Utility vehicle transmission controls include a common pivot shaft extending transversely across at least part of the operator station. The common pivot shaft has an integral collar. A shift lever has a sleeve pivotably mounted on the common pivot shaft with a portion of the sleeve extending over the integral collar. A differential lock lever has a lower end with a sleeve pivotably mounted on the common pivot shaft with a portion extending over the integral collar adjacent the shift pivot so that the shift lever and differential lock lever independently pivot. |
US08939241B2 |
Front mounted agricultural work vehicle power takeoff system
A drive system for an agricultural work vehicle. The drive system includes a front power takeoff device configured to extend from a front portion of the agricultural work vehicle and to be driven by an engine. The drive system also includes a first gearbox and a second gearbox positioned between the engine and the front power takeoff device. The first gearbox is configured to be driven by the engine and to provide power to drive the second gearbox. The second gearbox is configured to be driven by the first gearbox and to provide power to drive the front power takeoff device. The first gearbox and the second gearbox each provide a vertical shift between a respective driven input and a respective driving output. |
US08939238B2 |
High quality PCD compact
A sintered cutting element including a superabrasive layer supported on a substrate. The superabrasive layer includes superabrasive material and secondary phase, and the substrate includes a binder phase. The sintered cutting element is formed by a high temperature high pressure sintering process in which separate source elements melt and sweep first through the superabrasive layer, and then to the substrate to form the secondary phase and binder phase. The superabrasive layer is substantially free of or free of eta-phase, Co3W3C. Further, the portion of the substrate nearest the interface between the superabrasive layer and the substrate has equal or more binder phase than portions of the substrate further from the interface. In certain embodiments, the superabrasive material includes polycrystalline diamond, and the substrate includes cobalt tungsten carbide. |
US08939237B2 |
Underground drilling apparatus
A drilling apparatus is adapted for connection to a drill string such that the drill string rotates the drilling apparatus in a rotational cutting motion. The drilling apparatus includes a sonde housing having a distal end and a proximal end. The sonde housing includes a top platform positioned adjacent the distal end of the sonde housing and further includes a tongue positioned on the top platform. The drilling apparatus further includes a rotary cutting tool mounted to the distal end of the sonde housing. |
US08939231B2 |
Rear handle
A power tool, including a housing and a handle having two ends. The first end of the handle being moveably mounted to the housing via a first mounting assembly and the second end being moveably mounted to the housing via a second mounting assembly. One part of the first mounting assembly including a sleeve and the other part including a rod mounted in an axially slideable manner in the sleeve. A biasing mechanism connected between the two parts. One part of the second mounting assembly including a support and the other part including a pin located in the support which is capable of being rotated in the support to enable the second end of the handle to rotate relative to the housing and to move linearly in the support to enable the second end of the handle to move linearly relative to the housing. |
US08939227B2 |
Pressure protection valve for hydraulic tool
A pressure protection valve is provided which provides a fluid short circuit between a fluid pressure inlet of a hydraulic tool such as a hydraulic hammer and a low pressure region when the pressure at the fluid pressure inlet exceeds a first trigger pressure equal to a predetermined permissible pressure. This prevents damage to the hydraulic tool which can arise through operation at excessive fluid flow or pressure from hydraulic fluid supplied by a carrier vehicle. The pressure protection valve may maintain fluid communication between the fluid pressure inlet and the low pressure region until the pressure at the fluid pressure inlet reduces to a pressure below a predetermined second trigger pressure which is less than the first trigger pressure, to prevent further operation of the tool until the flow of fluid to the fluid pressure inlet has been stopped by an operator. |
US08939221B2 |
High pressure lock assembly
A lock assembly including a mandrel having one or more windows arranged alternatingly with one or more struts. One or more dogs are included corresponding to the one or more windows and are radially extendable therethrough. A member is operatively arranged for radially extending each of the one or more dogs. Each of the one or more dogs is operatively coupled between the member and the mandrel when fully radially extended by the member for bypassing loading in the one or more struts during loading of the assembly. |
US08939214B2 |
Riser connector
Various implementations include a system for introducing upwardly a flexible member into a tubular fixed structure with a sleeve surrounding the flexible member in the region where the flexible member attaches to the tubular fixed structure. The system allows for the flexible member to be drawn upwardly into a bore of the tubular fixed structure. In one implementation, a plurality of locking dogs are attached to and are radially moveable with respect to the sleeve between an inner locking position in which they engage with the flexible member, and an outer release position in which they are disengaged from the flexible member. In addition, a latch ring is disposed on a substantially cylindrical surface so that it may be deflected axially along said surface on contact between the sleeve and tubular fixed structure to permit release of the locking dogs. |
US08939210B2 |
Drill collar severing tool
A pipe severing tool is arranged to align a plurality of high explosive pellets along a unitizing central tube that is selectively separable from a tubular external housing. The pellets are loaded serially in a column in full view along the entire column as a final charging task. Detonation boosters are pre-positioned and connected to detonation cord for simultaneous detonation at opposite ends of the explosive column. Devoid of high explosive pellets during transport, the assembly may be transported with all boosters and detonation cord connected. |
US08939208B2 |
Additives for improving hydrocarbon recovery
Processes for recovering hydrocarbons from subterranean formations are disclosed. The hydrocarbon can be contacted with water or steam and one or more additives, and subsequently recovered. The hydrocarbon can be selected from heavy or light crude oil, bitumen, an oil sand ore, a tar sand ore, and combinations thereof. The additive can be, for example, a fluorinated hydrocarbon. Compositions or mixtures including hydrocarbons, water or steam, and additives are also disclosed. |
US08939207B2 |
Insulated conductor heaters with semiconductor layers
A heater used to heat a subsurface formation includes an electrical conductor, a semiconductor layer at least partially surrounding the electrical conductor, an insulation layer at least partially surrounding the electrical conductor, an electrically conductive sheath at least partially surrounding the insulation layer. The heater may be located in an opening in the subsurface formation. |
US08939206B2 |
Process for mineral oil production using hydrophobically associating copolymers
A process for mineral oil production, in which an aqueous formulation comprising at least one water-soluble, hydrophobically associating copolymer is injected through at least one injection borehole into a mineral oil deposit, and crude oil is withdrawn from the deposit having a deposit temperature of 35° C. to 120° C., preferably 40° C. to 90° C., through at least one production borehole, wherein the water-soluble, hydrophobically associating copolymer comprises at least acrylamide or derivatives thereof, a monoethylenically unsaturated monomer having anionic groups and a monoethylenically unsaturated monomer which can bring about the association of the copolymer. |
US08939205B2 |
Method and apparatus for generating seismic pulses to map subterranean fractures
The methods described are for determining distribution, orientation and dimensions of networks of hydraulically-induced fractures within a subterranean formation containing fluids. Micro-seismic events are generated, after cessation of fracturing and establishment of fracture networks, by particles introduced into the fractures which are capable of explosive or chemical reaction. In one method, attachment site particles are positioned within the formation during fracturing and additional reactive particles are later introduced. The reactive particles attach to the attachment sites and, upon a triggering event, react to produce micro-seismic events. The waves generated by the micro-seismic events are used to provide mapping of the effective fracture space. Additionally, time-lapse mapping is provided with use of “species” of attachment sites and reactive particles. |
US08939204B2 |
Method and apparatus for communicating with a device located in a borehole
A method of communication comprising: providing a string of a plurality of connected components (2,3,5,6,7), one or more vessels running along the string to form a continuous fluid path (13); incorporating a device (3) into the string so that the device is in communication with the fluid path; inserting the string into a borehole (18) so that the device is located below a surface into which the borehole is formed and the fluid path extends from the surface to the device; providing a pressure sensor at the surface, adapted to sense the pressure of the fluid in the fluid path; filling it with a pressurized fluid; over a communication period, venting fluid, under the control of the device, from the fluid path (13) to an exterior of the string (17) at the device on occasions, so that the resulting decrease in pressure in the fluid in the fluid path can be detected by the pressure sensor; and during the communication period introducing fluid into the fluid path at a rate below 30 gallons/minute [0.113 m3/minute]. |
US08939202B2 |
Fracturing nozzle assembly with cyclic stress capability
A fracturing jet nozzle assembly features a series of angles nozzles on a rotatably mounted plate that operates in conjunction with a central nozzle or nozzles. The slanted nozzles are aimed into the perforation where the central nozzle is aimed directly so that the rotation of the nozzle plate from the slanted nozzles results in cyclic impacts in the perforation from where the fractures will propagate. The cyclic loading results in greater fracture formation and propagation. In another variation, relatively movable plates employing slanted nozzles rotate one plate with respect to another to get the effect of cyclic pulses of jetting fluid impingement in the perforation to enhance formation and propagation of fractures from the perforation. |
US08939200B1 |
Tunable hydraulic stimulator
Selected designs for reciprocating pumps and down-hole well-stimulation equipment reflect disparate applications of identical technical principles (relating to, e.g., the vibration spectrum of an impulse). In certain of these designs, the vibration spectrum is controlled, suppressed and/or damped using tunable components to limit destructive excitation of resonances; in others the vibration spectrum is tuned at its source for maximum resonance excitation. For example, tunable fluid ends control valve-generated vibration to increase fluid-end reliability. By down-shifting the frequency domain of each valve-closing impulse shock, initial excitation of fluid end resonances is minimized. Subsequent damping and/or selective attenuation of vibration likely to excite one or more predetermined (and frequently localized) fluid end resonances represents further optimal use of fluid end vibration-control resources. Vibration generation in stimulators, in contrast, includes techniques for production of desired frequency bands (vibration spectra) and amplitudes (vibration energy) near explosively-formed perforations in a wellbore. |
US08939199B2 |
System for repositioning a coiled tubing tensioner
A system for positioning a trailer mounted coiled tubing tensioner either in a first stowed position on the deck of a transport trailer or in a second position resting on an elevated rig floor of a drilling rig is described. The system for selectably elevating a coiled tubing tensioner from its first stowed position to its second position on the rig floor of a drilling rig includes the cooperative operation of the coiled tubing tensioner and its frame, multiple pivotable swing arms attached to the trailer at one end and the tensioner frame at the other end, an elevatable mast, a crown block, a drawworks winch, a top drive, a pair of tensioner lifting winches and multiple lifting lines deployed from the mast and reeved through sheaves mounted on the tensioner frame and the top drive. |
US08939198B2 |
Apparatus and methods for deploying equipment at a wellsite
A system for transporting and deploying a natural gas processing system comprises a base. In addition, the system comprises a plurality of natural gas processing units mounted to the base. Further, the system comprises a plurality of jacking units attached to the base and configured to raise and lower the base. Each jacking unit comprises a post, an upper lift member moveably coupled to the post, a lower lift member moveably coupled to the post, and a pair of actuators. Moreover, each actuator has an upper end coupled to the upper lift member and a lower end coupled to the lower lift member. |
US08939196B2 |
Secondary pump type heat source and secondary pump type heat source control method
A secondary pump-type heat source system includes: heat sources connected in parallel; a load system in which the heat source water flows; a primary pump supplying the heat source water to the load system; a secondary pump provided for each heat source and supplies the heat source water subjected to heat exchange in the load system to the heat source; and a heat source controller calculating flow quantity of the heat source water flowing in the heat source side and flow quantity of the heat source water flowing in the load system side by assigning a result from measurement by a water temperature sensor detecting heat source temperature to an operating characteristic of each heat source and controlling operation of the secondary pumps based on the calculation result. |
US08939195B2 |
Heat exchanger
A plate for the use in a heat exchanger cassette, where the plate comprises a corrugated pattern having a plurality of ridges (9) and valleys (10), and where the plate comprises a sealing gasket groove (3) encircling a heat transfer surface (8) that will be part of a contact-free fluid channel when two cassettes comprising at least one plate each are positioned adjacent each other, wherein the sealing gasket groove (3) comprises a base surface with a first, flat section (12) and a second, bent section (13), and where the bent section is angled with the angle α. The advantage of the inventive plate is that an airtight heat exchanger cassette can be obtained in an easy and cost-effective way. |
US08939193B2 |
Method and apparatus for filtered and controlled flow metal molding
Method and apparatus for flowing molten metal substantially vertically into a mold by means of a feeder tube while concurrently impeding the flow of oxides that collect at the perimeter of the head of the feeder tube. This reduces inclusions in the molten metal and improves the quality of a molded component as the molten metal solidifies. |
US08939191B2 |
Temperature measurement in a chill mold by a fiber optic measurement method
A method for measuring the temperature in a mold by a fiber-optic measurement method and a correspondingly designed mold. For this purpose, light waveguides, through which laser light is conducted, are arranged in grooves in the outside surface of the copper mold plate. The temperature at several measurement points along the measurement fiber is determined by a temperature detection system. In particular, the method makes it possible to achieve much greater local resolution of the temperature measurements than that achieved by thermocouples. |
US08939189B2 |
Vehicle window shade device
A window shade device for vehicles covers a first window and a second window provided adjacent to each other to be shielded and opened. The window shade device for vehicles includes: a guide and support mechanism including a guide rail disposed along a drawing/housing direction of the second window shade and a movable member movable along the guide rail; a rack member connected with the movable member and configured to move along the guide rail; and an intermediate transmission mechanism including a first bevel gear and a second bevel gear and transmitting the rotation of a windup shaft member of the first windup device as a force for moving the rack member along the guide rail, the first bevel gear being connected to the windup shaft member so as to rotate in association therewith, the second bevel gear being disposed to mesh with the first bevel gear. |
US08939187B2 |
Machine for producing a cup
A machine uses a method for producing a cup from an outer shell and inner cup. For this purpose, the machine includes first holding devices that are arranged on a first rotatably housed star- or wheel-like holding device carrier, and second holding devices arranged on a second rotatably housed star- or wheel-like holding device carrier. Further, a first working station arranged at least in the region of the first holding devices for carrying out first working steps and at least one second working station arranged in the region of the second holding devices for carrying out second working steps are provided. Finally, the machine includes a transfer station for transferring a finished outer shell from a first holding device to a second holding device. |
US08939184B2 |
Rubber composition and pneumatic tire using same
A tire sidewall may be formed from a composition including a rubber component and a non-ionic surfactant. |
US08939180B2 |
Apparatus and methods for filament crimping and manufacturing
Apparatus and methods for filament crimping. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a body and a filament crimp element. The filament crimp element comprises a first set of cavities disposed at a spacing which creates a first set of features and a second set of cavities disposed at a spacing which creates a second set of features. The first and second set cavities are substantially opposite one another. The first set of features are adapted to be placed at least partially within the second set of cavities and the second set of features are adapted to be placed at least partially within the first set of cavities. Methods and apparatus for the manufacture of the device are also disclosed. In addition, methods for automated placement and manufacture of assemblies using the crimp elements are also disclosed. |
US08939178B1 |
Variable-aperture reciprocating reed valve
A variable-aperture reciprocating reed valve includes a valve body defining a through hole region having a contoured-profile portion. A semi-rigid plate is affixed on one side thereof to the valve body to define a cantilever extending across the through hole region. At least one free edge of the cantilever opposes the contoured-profile portion of the through hole region in a non-contact relationship. |
US08939171B2 |
System for microfluidic flow control
A system and method for controlling fluid flow within a microchannel includes a fluid circuit comprising a fluid outlet well and one or more fluid inlet wells, all in communication with a microchannel. A negative pressure differential is applied to the outlet well and fluid flow from an inlet well into the microchannel is controlled by opening or closing the inlet well to atmospheric pressure. To stop fluid flow from the inlet well, a negative pressure differential may be applied to the inlet well to equalize pressure between the inlet and outlet wells. By sequentially opening and closing different inlet wells to atmosphere, controlled amounts of different reagents can be serially introduced into the microchannel. |
US08939170B2 |
Valve for pressurized fluid and tank furnished with such a valve
A valve for pressurized fluid comprising a body (1) accommodating a fluid circuit (2) having an upstream end (3) designed to be placed in communication with a reserve of pressurized fluid and a downstream end (4) designed to be placed in communication with a using device, the circuit (2) comprising an isolation valve element (5) in order to selectively close off the circuit (2), the valve element (5) being controlled by a lever (8) mounted so as to pivot on the body (1) between a rest position in which the isolation valve element (5) is held in a position of closing the circuit (2) and an active position in which the lever (8) moves the isolation valve element (5) into a position of opening the circuit (2). |
US08939167B2 |
Adjustable fixed pressure relief assembly and regulator comprising same
A pressure relief assembly may include an actuator stem having a plurality of retaining grooves. A relief plate may be operatively connected to the actuator stem and a diaphragm plate may be operatively connected to the actuator stem. A diaphragm may be least partially disposed between the relief plate and the diaphragm plate. A relief spring seat may be releasably attached to the actuator stem at one of the plurality of retaining grooves. The relief spring may be adjusted by moving the attachment point from one retaining groove to another retaining groove. |
US08939161B2 |
Cleaning system for an electric shaver
A cleaning system for an electric shaver having a shaving head generally includes a housing having an interior space configured to retain cleaning fluid within the housing. The housing is further configured for supporting the shaver in a generally upright orientation with the shaving head disposed at least in part within the interior space of the housing. A displacement apparatus is disposed within the interior space of the housing and is selectively positionable within the housing between a first position in which the cleaning fluid within the housing defines a lower fluid level relative to the shaving head to be cleaned, and a second position in which the cleaning fluid defines a higher fluid level relative to the shaving head such that at the higher fluid level at least a portion of the shaving head of the shaver is submerged in the cleaning fluid within the housing. |
US08939160B2 |
Masking device for cosmetic hair treatment
A masking sheet for hair coloring has first and second surfaces encompassed by first and second longitudinal edges and first and second transverse edges where the first and second transverse edges embody respective substantially convex curves. |
US08939158B2 |
Agents, compositions and devices for temporary coloring local hair areas
Hair-coloring applicators comprising a shield to protect the scalp, polymers of tannic acid having iron ions bound thereto, hair-coloring compositions comprising same and/or melanoidin, and novel alcohol-free carriers, are disclosed, as well uses thereof for coloring hair. |
US08939156B2 |
Banded papers, smoking articles and methods
Wrapper for cigarette manufacture includes transversely extending band regions applied by a printing technique, such as gravure printing. The band regions comprise starch, an anti-wrinkling agent such as 1,2 propylene glycol or glycerin, and optionally calcium carbonate. Any suitable printing technique can be used to apply the aqueous solution to the banded regions. The pattern of banded regions may be bands, stripes, two-dimensional arrays, undulated regions, and the like along and/or around the tobacco rod. The pattern can be applied in one or more layers. The pattern may be configured so that when a smoking article is placed on a substrate, at least two longitudinal locations along the length of the tobacco rod have film-forming compound located only on sides of the smoking article not in contact with the substrate. |
US08939154B2 |
Magnetic levitation of an intraluminal microelectronic capsule
A method and apparatus for magnetically levitating and further steering of an intraluminal device, such as a swallowable microelectronic capsule, for monitoring bodily functions is provided. The method comprises diamagnetically-stabilized levitation, followed by dynamic modification of the external magnetic field producing the said levitation, so that the levitating intraluminal device can be steered in desired direction. The said intraluminal device contains appropriate sensors and reports in real time the forces and pressures exerted on it, as well as its position, so that the levitation and the steering can be dynamically adjusted using appropriate dynamic control of external magnetic devices such as solenoids. |
US08939151B2 |
Respiratory mask sealing interface
A sealing interface forms part of an apparatus for supplying a flow of respiratory gases to a user. The sealing interface comprises a foam or gel inner cushion and a thin resilient rubber outer sheath. A face side of the inner cushion resiliently supports the outer sheath. The inner cushion has a toothed profile formed on the face side of the inner cushion. The toothed profile consists of at least one tooth having an apex on the perimeter of the inner cushion. The apex is positioned between two valleys in the perimeter of the inner cushion. In use the apex of each tooth of the toothed profile is in supporting contact with the outer sheath. |
US08939147B2 |
Identification system and method for mask and ventilator components
Components of a CPAP or other patient ventilation apparatus have a remotely-readable identification tag encoded with component identification data. The flow generator controller is programmed to receive data derived from the identification tag from a tag reader, and to adapt functions of the flow controller to coordinate with the component. |
US08939145B2 |
Apparatus and methods for treating sleep apnea
An apparatus and method for treating sleep apnea and/or snoring is provided. The apparatus includes an appliance sized and structured to be placed in the pharyngeal region of a human or animal and being effective in treating sleep apnea and/or snoring, for example in maintaining openness of an oropharyngeal region of a human or animal during natural sleep, advantageously while not interfering with normal functioning of the epiglottis. Preferably, the appliance is non-circumferential in form and includes rounded, spaced apart end portions. |
US08939143B2 |
Solar array column cap
Disclosed herein is a solar array column cap that includes a main body extending between a left side and a right side to define a channel, the channel configured to at least partially receive a vertical column of a solar array support structure such that the main body surrounds the vertical column. The main body further includes a left flange extending radially outwardly from the left side of the channel and right flange extending radially outwardly from the right side of the channel. Further, the main body includes an left upper flap extending from a top edge of the left flange, and a right upper flap extending from a top edge of the right flange, the right upper flap and left upper flap being co-planar. In another embodiment, a body has an opening extending along a center axis from a bottom to a top, the opening configured to receive the vertical column such that the body surrounds the vertical column, and an upper support surface configured to receive a horizontal beam, the upper support surface being located in a plane that is non-perpendicular with the center axis. |
US08939141B2 |
Air intake modulator and method of using
An air flow modulating device comprising a flapper, a mount and a conduit. The conduit may be T-shaped and may be attached to an intake conduit of a sealed combustion condensing appliance, or other appliance having an air intake conduit, through a first portion of T-shaped conduit. The mount may be connected to a second portion of T-shaped conduit and the flapper may rotate between an open position and a closed position about an axle of the mount. The device operates to allow for a sealed combustion condensing appliance to immediately intake interior air when an exterior air source is obstructed, limited or reduced, or in response to changes in air pressure due to uncontrollable natural forces. |
US08939140B2 |
Bow stabilizer with camera attachment feature
A kit for mounting a camera to a bow is provided. The kit includes a bow stabilizer for attachment to the bow; and a mounting bracket for attachment to the stabilizer, the bracket including a seat for the camera, an arm extending from the seat at a first end, and a connector at a second end for attaching the arm to the stabilizer. |
US08939138B2 |
Sight cover
A hunting equipment sight cover comprises a pouch shaped to receive a sight; first and second flaps extending from the pouch to wrap about a frame of the sight or a portion of an equipment from which the sight extends; and connectors for connecting distal portions of the first and second flaps to the pouch. |
US08939137B2 |
Gated full capture archery rest
An arrow rest for retaining an arrow in a shooting position on an archery bow. The arrow rest includes a generally ring shaped structure surrounding a center opening. The ring structure includes a gap configured to receive the arrow in the center opening. A gate is pivotally attached to the ring structure and biased to extend across the gap in a closed position. At least one fixed arrow support is attached to the ring and extends into the center opening toward the shooting position. At least two pivoting arrow supports are pivotally attached to the ring and biased toward the shooting position of the center opening. The pivoting arrow supports are biased to capture the arrow against the fixed arrow support in the shooting position of the center opening and to rotate away from the shooting position when the arrow is launched from the archery bow. |
US08939133B2 |
Outboard motor
An outboard motor includes an engine and a casing. The engine includes a cylinder unit, ahead cover and an ignition coil device. The cylinder unit is made of metal. The head cover is made of resin and is attached to the cylinder unit. The ignition coil device is attached to the head cover. The casing is made of resin and covers the engine. The coil ignition device includes a radiated noise reducer portion. The radiated noise reducer portion is configured to reduce noise that is radiated from the ignition coil device. |
US08939132B2 |
Ignition control apparatus
Ignition is performed in such a way that a bias voltage is applied to a first electrode of an ignition plug and a current detection device detects a current that flows in the first electrode, that based on the value of the detected current, a smolder level detection device detects the level of a smolder produced in the ignition plug, and that a control device controls, based on the detected smolder level, at least one of the timing of ignition, the number of ignition events per power stroke of an internal combustion engine, and the amount of energy accumulated in an ignition coil device. |
US08939131B2 |
PCV valve apparatus
A PCV valve apparatus includes a PCV valve main body and a cover member. The PCV valve main body includes a first connection portion, a second connection portion, and a fastened portion. The first connection portion includes a first end and a second end. The cover member includes an attachment portion and a covering portion. The fastened portion includes a locking portion protruding toward the cover member in a state where the covering portion covers a fastening member. In a covering position where the covering portion covers the fastening member, the locking portion is received in a receiving portion, and the attachment portion is located at the second end. In a non-covering position where the covering portion does not cover the fastening member, the attachment portion is in contact with the locking portion to be locked by the locking portion and is located at the first end. |
US08939130B2 |
Evaporated fuel treatment device for vehicle
An evaporated fuel treatment device is provided to treat evaporated fuel by using a fuel supply cap with a small size while the flowout of fuel can also be suitably prevented. The evaporated fuel treatment device includes a positive pressure adjusting valve which opens when an inner pressure of a fuel tank becomes a predetermined pressure or more, and a spherical rollover valve which closes the positive pressure adjusting valve when the fuel tank is inclined at an angle equal to or larger than a predetermined angle. The positive pressure adjusting valve and the spherical rollover valve are mounted on one cylindrical portion formed on a fuel supply cap. |
US08939124B2 |
Balancing shaft with bearing point having separated first and second bearing surfaces
A balancing shaft may have at least one unbalance portion and at least one bearing point, wherein the at least one unbalance portion is associated with the at least one bearing point. The balancing shaft on the bearing point may define a transverse opening which separates a first part bearing surface from a second part bearing surface. |
US08939123B2 |
Countershaft
The invention relates to a countershaft for a single or multiple cylinder motor having at least one unbalanced weight section (21, 22; 23, 24) and at least one bearing point (16, 17) that is allocated to the at least one unbalanced weight section (21, 22; 23, 24), wherein the bearing point (16, 17) has a radial circumferential surface (18) that extends only partially over a circumference of the bearing point (16, 17) so that a centrifugal force resulting from rotation of the countershaft (11) lies within a region of the bearing point (16, 17) that is formed by the circumferential surface (18) extending partially over the circumference of the bearing point (16, 17) and having a ring (25) that surrounds the partially extended circumferential surface (18) of the bearing point (16, 17) and is connected by a force and/or form and/or material fitting connection to the bearing point (16, 17), wherein the circumferential surface (18) of the bearing point (16, 17) has a receptacle region (33) for receiving the ring (25) and at least one axial outer edge region or at least one ring-shaped region of the ring (25) is connected at least to one contact surface (37) of the receptacle region (33) in a force and/or form and/or material fitting manner. (Refer to FIG. 5.) |
US08939121B2 |
Glow plug fitted with combustion pressure detection sensor
A glow plug in which a convex portion (70) is formed in an outer peripheral surface (10b) of a heater (10) in a part facing an inner peripheral surface (137b) of a leading end part (137) of a housing (110) and interposed in a leading end side annular gap K1, so as to maintain a gap with the inner peripheral surface (137b). A decline in detection accuracy can be prevented to the extent that combustion gas can be received by the leading end (72) of the convex portion (70) even if soot clogging should occur. |
US08939119B2 |
Camshaft adjustment device
A camshaft adjuster (3), comprising a camshaft axis of rotation (D) and an electromagnetic multi-tappet actuating device (4) having at least two electromagnetic drive units, which for exerting an actuating force on a corresponding number of elongated tappet units (9, 10, 11) which are mounted axially parallel to one another, each defining a tappet longitudinal center axis (A1, A2, A3) arranged perpendicularly to the camshaft axis of rotation (D) are activatable, in order to engage with the tappet units (9, 10, 11) in shifting grooves (8) of an adjustable cam piece (7), wherein the drive units each on a facing acting end on one of the associated tappet units (9, 10, 11) form an acting surface that is moveable in an actuating direction of the drive units and an end face on the acting side facing away from the respective associated shifting groove (8) of a respective one of the tappet units (9, 10, 11) interacts with the acting surface, wherein at least one of the tappet units (9, 10, 11) is arranged relative to the camshaft axis of rotation (D) in such a manner that its tappet longitudinal center axis (A1, A2, A3) running parallel to the tappet longitudinal center axes (A1, A2, A3) of the at least one other tappet unit (9, 10, 11) is spaced from the camshaft axis of rotation (D) in a plane (E) receiving the camshaft axis of rotation (D) and running perpendicularly to the tappet longitudinal center axes (A1, A2, A3). |
US08939118B2 |
Rocker arm providing cylinder deactivation
A rocker arm assembly to provide either cylinder deactivation or reduced valve lift. The rocker arm assembly includes inner and outer portions that are rotatably connected to one another. In one state, the inner and outer portions are locked together to provide traditional valve lift. In a second state, the inner portion is allowed to rotate relative to the outer portion to deactivate the cylinder or provide reduced valve lift. Bearings on both the inner and outer portions provide rolling contact with corresponding cam shaft features. A hydraulic system provides transition between the first and second states. |
US08939116B2 |
Liquid-cooled internal combustion engine
A liquid-cooled internal combustion engine having at least one cylinder with a cylinder head in which there are disposed a lower partial cooling chamber adjacent to a fire deck and an upper partial cooling chamber which is flow-connected thereto by way of at least one main overflow aperture. |
US08939115B2 |
Cylinder head cooling system
A cylinder head for a motorcycle engine in which the cylinder head includes an intake side including an intake passage and an intake valve movably disposed within the intake passage, and an exhaust side including an exhaust passage and an exhaust valve movably disposed within the exhaust passage, the exhaust side being positioned remote from the intake side. A cooling liquid inlet port and a cooling liquid discharge port are located on the intake side. A cooling liquid passage runs through the cylinder head to reduce an operating temperature of the cylinder head. |
US08939112B2 |
Buckstay connecting system
A buckstay connecting system includes a socket part that is fixed to the horizontal buckstay being separated from a lower end of the vertical buckstay between the lower end of the vertical buckstay and the horizontal buckstay, and an insertion part that is fixed to a lower portion of the vertical buckstay, is inserted into the socket part so as to be able to slide in a vertical direction, inhibits the horizontal buckstay from being inclined, and is allowed to be fastened to the socket part. |
US08939111B2 |
Method and system for fencing animals without using a physical fence
A system for invisible fencing for animals, that is a device mounted on animals. The device checks Global Navigation Satellite System (“GNSS”) position measurements against an area that is defined in the device. The area can be defined as a combination of several areas with different characteristics. An area may also be defined as dynamic. The system calculates the shortest distance to this area based on actual GNSS position. If position measurements show that the animal has a position that is outside the area, correction will be performed as a combination of audio signal and electric shock. The correction is made by increasing the audio frequency proportionally with the calculated distance to the area. When the audio frequency has reached an upper limit, one single electric shock is given, and possible further correction is resumed from the position where the electric shock was given. |
US08939105B1 |
Oceanic platform to extract and discharge salt water
An oceanic platform is configured to discharge water into an atmosphere to create rain and thus more fresh water. The oceanic platform comprises a floating platform mechanically coupled to a deck grate. The deck grate is further mechanically coupled to a telescoping shaft. The telescoping shaft is mechanically coupled to a water intake. A pump can push the water through the water intake up the telescoping shaft and into the atmosphere, thus creating the rain and more of the fresh water. |
US08939098B2 |
Sewing machine accessory for circular sewing
A sewing machine accessory includes a plate for attaching to a sewing machine workbed and to be located below a needle, the plate includes an opening and a guiding track, and a positioning device includes a sliding member slidably engaged with the guiding track of the accessory plate, and a pointed member extended from the sliding member for engaging with a cloth material to be stitched and for forming of an arced stitch on the cloth material, and the pointed member is movable close to the needle for stitching or forming a circular or arced stitch that includes a relatively decreased or smaller outer diameter. |
US08939096B2 |
Apparatus, sewing machine, and non-transitory computer-readable medium
An apparatus includes a processor and a memory. The memory is configured to store computer-readable instructions that, when executed by the processor, instruct the processor to perform processes including acquiring pattern data, specifying an outline of the embroidery pattern based on the pattern data, creating hole data for causing the sewing machine to form a plurality of holes including one or more first holes and one or more second holes, creating first stitch data for causing the sewing machine to sew one or more stitches for the one or more first holes, and creating embroidery data for causing the sewing machine to form one or more first holes, and sew the one or more stitches for the one or more first holes, and causing the sewing machine to form the one or more second holes, before causing the sewing machine to sew an outline pattern. |
US08939095B2 |
Furrow closing assembly and method
Agricultural planter row units feature soil finishing assemblies for closing a seed groove after seed is placed in the soil. An adjustable furrow closing assembly enhances upper seed groove coverage and closure with soil resulting in sustained relative humidity levels and optimum seed-to-soil contact for faster seed germination. The furrow closing assembly includes a closing wheel assembly having at least one closing wheel and a press wheel assembly having a press wheel following behind the closing wheels. The closing wheels and press wheel are attached to the planter row unit in a manner allowing the press wheel to move vertically relative to the closing wheels. Adjustable down-force systems are provided to vary the down force applied to the closing wheels and the press wheel to maintain optimum soil contact in irregular terrain and in varying soil densities and conditions to provide optimum soil coverage and compaction of the seed bed. |
US08939092B2 |
Table system
Provided is a table system that allows for multiple table frame arrangements using various combinations of fundamental building pieces. An adjustable height table leg includes two parallel and horizontal slots adapted to receive and clamp two independent frame members of the frame. The frame members may be bent or angled in a plurality of configurations to achieve a desired shape for the table frame. Sections of the frame members may also include apertures through which fasteners may be threaded to connect two frame members at right angles. |
US08939091B2 |
Display rack
A display rack capable of being transformed between a first configuration, in which a plurality of rack boxes are arranged in tiers and a second configuration, in which the plurality of rack boxes are vertically arranged in line, the display rack comprising an upper rack having an upper rack box and an upper back plate for holding the upper rack box, a lower rack having a lower rack box and a lower back plate for holding the lower rack box, and a connection member for connecting the upper rack and the lower rack the connection member being rotatably supported at a horizontal line lower than the upper rack box on a front side of the upper back plate and a horizontal line higher than the lower box on a back side of the lower back plate. |
US08939088B2 |
Bottom door opening-closing mechanism, bottom door device and drop-bottom hopper car
A bottom door opening-closing mechanism includes a first connecting rod, a second connecting rod, a swing rod, a bottom door opening-closing drive cylinder and a transmission shaft. The swing rod is hinged to the second connecting rod and the piston rod of the bottom door opening-closing drive cylinder. One end of the first connecting rod is hinged to the second connecting rod, and the transmission shaft is connected to the second connecting rod. The cylinder body of the bottom door opening-closing drive cylinder is fixedly connected with a first locking hook, and the swing rod is fixedly connected with a second locking hook which can be caught by the first locking hook. A bottom door device and a drop-bottom hopper car are further provided. In the present invention, the first locking hook and the second locking hook are caught with each other to achieve a secondary locking. Such an arrangement has some advantages such as a simple structure and low manufacture and maintenance costs. Further, a secondary locking may be achieved while closing the bottom door only by controlling the bottom door opening-closing drive cylinder, so that the complexity of the control system is reduced. |
US08939085B2 |
Monorail vehicle apparatus with gravity-augmented contact load
Apparatus and method for gravity-augmented preload of drive wheels in a monorail vehicle travelling along a guide rail bearing and contact surfaces that are non-parallel with the gravity vector. The vehicle has a structure defining a pivot location against the bearing surface, as well as first and second assemblies for engaging the rail on the bearing and contact surfaces, respectively. The vehicle is mounted so its center of gravity is at a rear longitudinal offset rrl from the pivot location and a vertical offset rvert from the guide rail. A force and moment balance thus created in a normal load on a drive wheel engaged with the bearing surface at the pivot location, where the load value exceeds a standard normal load generated by the mass of the monorail vehicle alone. |
US08939083B1 |
Fuze safing system
The safing system employs a multi-axis accelerometer system and multi-axis gyroscope system and a processor that is programmed to iteratively read acceleration data from the accelerometer system and apply a multi-axis rotation on the acceleration data using gyroscope data iteratively read from the gyroscope system to generate rotationally corrected acceleration data and further programmed to calculate a cumulative distance measure using the rotationally corrected acceleration data. The processor then compares the cumulative distance measure with a predetermined reference measure and to issue a control signal to enable arming of the device when the cumulative distance measure exceeds the reference measure. |
US08939082B2 |
Blasting arrangement
For use in a blasting system (10), a visible, throw-away, safety lockout device (30) which operates automatically, to interrupt power to the blasting system (10), upon the occurrence of one or more defined fault conditions. |
US08939081B1 |
Ladar backtracking of wake turbulence trailing an airborne target for point-of-origin estimation and target classification
A weapon-locating ladar system estimates a backward trajectory of an airborne target by using flow field measurements to follow the wake turbulence trailing the airborne target from a position at which the target is detected backwards until the wake is no longer observable. The system may use the backward trajectory to estimate the point-of-origin of the target. The system may also use the flow field measurements along the backward trajectory to classify the target. Target classification may be used to refine the point-of-origin estimate, to influence counter-fire or to adapt the flow field measurements. |
US08939079B2 |
First printing plate and second printing plate
Disclosed are a printing plate and a mirror thereof, the printing plate including: printing portions for transferring an immersed solution, the printing portions being formed flat and arranged at regular intervals on one side of an upper part of the printing plate; and non-printing portions corresponding to a remaining area other than the printing portions, the non-printing portions being formed with at least two concavities and convexities respectively and arranged at regular intervals on the other side of the upper part of the printing plate. |
US08939077B2 |
Wiping device
A wiping device includes an intaglio cylinder, a cylinder cleaning device, and a wiping liquid supply device. The intaglio cylinder is rotatably supported. The cylinder cleaning device removes excess ink adhered to an outer surface of the intaglio cylinder. The wiping liquid supply device supplies a wiping liquid for cleaning to the cylinder cleaning device. The wiping liquid supply device includes a waste liquid tank, a new liquid tank, a first pump, and second pump. The waste liquid tank stores a waste wiping liquid discharged from the cylinder cleaning device. The new liquid tank stores a clean wiping liquid. The first pump supplies the clean wiping liquid from the new liquid tank to the cylinder cleaning device. The second pump supplies a supernatant liquid of the waste wiping liquid stored in the waste liquid tank and separated into a precipitate and the supernatant liquid to the cylinder cleaning device. |
US08939065B2 |
Brew chamber packet ejector
A brew basket for a brewing apparatus is disclosed having a housing adapted to couple the brew basket to a brewing apparatus and a platform extending from the housing, the platform including a brewing chamber defined by a continuous peripheral wall and a perforated floor. The perforated floor is coupled to a vertically reciprocating member at a first end for raising and lowering the perforated floor of the brew basket with respect to the continuous peripheral wall, the vertically reciprocating member extending below a lowermost surface of the platform so that it can be raised by lowering the platform onto a flat surface. |
US08939062B2 |
Double-acting hydraulic cylinder with integrated gas spring action and method for making the same
The invention relates to a method for constructing a gas-filled double-acting hydraulic cylinder (1) with gas spring action, comprising: —a cylinder sleeve (3) with a cylinder bottom (3a) and cylinder head (3b) —a piston/piston rod assembly (5) a hydraulic fluid seal on the piston (9) —a connection for the head-side chamber (13) to a hydraulic line; —a connection for the bottom-side chamber (15) to a hydraulic line, —a gland (20) with a bore, the gland being attached between the cylinder bottom (3a) and the piston (9), the piston rod (7) extending over the entire stroke of the piston rod through the bore, wherein the gland comprises two seals —(25), one for providing a seal with the cylinder sleeve (3) and one for providing a seal with the piston rod. |
US08939058B1 |
Portable ballistic resistant shield
A portable ballistic resistant shield device is provided. The device includes an attachment portion for coupling the device to an arm of a user, wherein the user has full function of a hand of the arm the device is coupled to. The device may also include a shield member operatively coupled to the attachment portion, a securing mechanism operatively coupled between the attachment portion and the shield member and an activation switch coupled to the attachment portion and operatively connected to the securing mechanism. The shield member is moveable between a stored position and a deployed position, wherein the securing mechanism retains the shield member in the stored position and releases the shield member to automatically deploy in response to activating the activation switch. |
US08939056B1 |
Systems, devices, and/or methods for managing targeted payload descent
Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a system, machine, device, manufacture, circuit, composition of matter, and/or user interface adapted for and/or resulting from, and/or a method and/or machine-readable medium comprising machine-implementable instructions for, activities that can comprise and/or relate to, providing a guided descent from a release zone and toward an entry zone. |
US08939045B2 |
Control pedal assembly
A control pedal assembly includes a pedal bracket, a control pedal, an urging device and a communicating portion. The pedal bracket is secured to a vehicle body and has a housing space. The control pedal is swingably supported by a support shaft disposed in the housing space of the pedal bracket. The urging device is to urge the control pedal toward a rear of a vehicle body. The communicating portion is provided at a rear of the support shaft relative to the vehicle body between the control pedal and the pedal bracket to connect a space above the control pedal and a space below the control pedal. |
US08939043B2 |
Linear actuator
Linear actuator comprising a housing (1) consisting of at least two parts (1 a, 1 b) a mounting console (2) a reversible motor (7) with a transmission (22), a spindle (5) which over the transmission is driven by the motor, a bearing (16) for embedding the spindle (5), a spindle nut (6) secured against rotation on the spindle, an outer tube (3) which surrounds the spindle, an activation element (4) telescopically mounted in the outer tube (3) and connected to the spindle nut (6), a front mounting (8) on the outer end of the activation element (4), a rear mounting (9) arranged in the housing. In the rear mounting (9) is a seat for the bearing (31) of the spindle. The motor (7), the transmission (22) and the outer tube (3) is secured to the console (2). The mounting console (2) is constructed as a separate element around which the two parts (1a, 1 b) of the housing is assembled and the mounting console (2) constitutes alone the bearing chassis of the actuator. Thus a possibility for a compact actuator with low manufacturing costs together with high performance and quality properties is achieved. |
US08939042B2 |
Scotch yoke arrangement
A portable, refrigerant recovery unit for transferring refrigerant from a refrigeration system to a storage tank. The recovery unit includes two, opposed piston heads rigidly attached to respective piston rods that extend along a common fixed axis. The piston rods are rigidly attached to the yoke member of a scotch yoke arrangement. In operation, incoming refrigerant from the system is simultaneously and continuously directed to the opposing piston heads wherein the forces of the pressurized refrigerant on them counterbalance or neutralize one another. The scotch yoke arrangement includes a two-piece slide mechanism mounted about a cylindrical crank pin and a single piston embodiment is additionally disclosed. |
US08939041B2 |
Nanomechanical testing system
An automated testing system includes systems and methods to facilitate inline production testing of samples at a micro (multiple microns) or less scale with a mechanical testing instrument. In an example, the system includes a probe changing assembly for coupling and decoupling a probe of the instrument. The probe changing assembly includes a probe change unit configured to grasp one of a plurality of probes in a probe magazine and couple one of the probes with an instrument probe receptacle. An actuator is coupled with the probe change unit, and the actuator is configured to move and align the probe change unit with the probe magazine and the instrument probe receptacle. In another example, the automated testing system includes a multiple degree of freedom stage for aligning a sample testing location with the instrument. The stage includes a sample stage and a stage actuator assembly including translational and rotational actuators. |
US08939037B2 |
Embedded data acquisition
Embodiments are generally directed to methods and apparatuses having electronic device cover glass that includes embedded sensors. In particular, one embodiment may take the form of a device having a device housing and a cover glass coupled to the device housing. The device includes a plurality of sensors coupled to the cover glass and configured to acquire data related to stress and strain experienced by the cover glass. The plurality of sensors is embedded within the cover glass. |
US08939036B2 |
System and method for airflow sensing and monitoring using manometer with special readout scale
A system and method for measuring the airflow in an air handling unit, includes placing two sensor tubes having apertures along the thereof at specific locations within the air handling unit that, when attached to a manometer, measuring the differential pressure loss across the two locations and, by means of a special readout scale, providing the airflow through the air handling unit. |
US08939035B2 |
Multiphase metering system
A multi-phase fluid is passed through a Coriolis flowmeter and a watercut meter. The multi-phase fluid includes two phases during a first time period and three phases during a second time period. It is determined that the multi-phase fluid includes two phases during the first time period, and a first value of a parameter of the multi-phase fluid is determined using a value measured by the Coriolis flowmeter during the first time period. A second value of a parameter of the multi-phase fluid is determined using a value measured by the watercut meter during the first time period. The first value is compared to the second value, and it is determined, based on the comparison, that the first value and the second value are inconsistent with each other. |
US08939033B2 |
Flow meter system and method for measuring an amount of liquid in a largely gaseous multiphase flow
Both a flow meter system and method are provided for accurately measuring the percentage amounts of liquid and gas phases in a multiphase flow through a conduit when the liquid phase constitutes a small minority portion (e.g., less than about 20%) of the multiphase flow. The system includes a flow meter that includes a differential pressure sensor connected across a Venturi in the conduit, and a dual energy fraction meter, each of which is operably connected to a digital processor. The system further includes a pump connected to the conduit upstream of the flow meter that introduces at least one pulse of a known quantity of liquid, the pulse being sufficient in volume to temporarily increase the liquid phase by a detectable amount. After the liquid pulse is introduced into the multi-phase flow, the digital processor computes the changes in the percentage amounts of the liquid and gas phases which should have occurred as a result of the pulse, and compares the computed changes with the actual changes measured by the flow meter in order to calibrate the flow meter. The measured increase in the liquid flow is then subtracted from the total measured liquid flow to determine the actual percentage of liquid flow. |
US08939032B2 |
Mobile anchor tester
A mobile anchor tester for testing an earth anchor or a deadman or any other suitable assembly. A mobile system is provided for testing in-ground anchors, the system including a mobile platform, such as a trailer or the bed of a pickup truck having a horizontal support surface spaced above the ground. A pair of adjustable leg assemblies are provided engaging the rear end of the mobile anchor tester. The legs are adjustable, typically having hydraulic cylinders engaged therewith. The adjustable leg assemblies will extend from the back or rear end of the mobile platform to the ground. An anchor testing assembly engaged with the horizontal support surface on the mobile platform has a cable at the removed end thereof. The cable includes a hook to engage the in-ground anchor. |
US08939029B2 |
MEMS sensor with movable Z-axis sensing element
A MEMS sensor includes a substrate and a MEMS structure coupled to the substrate. The MEMS structure has a mass movable with respect to the substrate. The MEMS sensor also includes a reference structure electrically coupled to the mass of the MEMS sensor. The reference structure is used to provide a reference to offset any environmental changes that may affect the MEMS sensor in order to increase the accuracy of its measurement. |
US08939027B2 |
Acceleration sensor
An acceleration sensor includes an acceleration detector, a first fixed portion and a second fixed portion, and first to fourth beams that connect the first fixed portion and the second fixed portion to the acceleration detector. A support substrate includes a fixed first substrate piece, a movable second substrate piece, and a hinge that connects the first substrate piece and the second substrate piece to each other. The longitudinal direction of the acceleration detector extends along the direction perpendicular to a detection axis thereof, and a central portion of the acceleration detector in the short-side direction overlaps with the hinge in the short-side direction. The length of the second substrate piece along the longitudinal direction of the hinge is greater than the length of the second substrate piece along the short-side direction of the hinge. |
US08939026B2 |
Frequency modulated micro gyro
A sensing device comprises a rotationally oscillating proof mass resonator and a detector resonator. The detector resonator, actuated to produce an oscillating signal, is coupled to the proof mass resonator and the frequency of the oscillating signal is modulated by a change of motion of the proof mass resonator. |
US08939025B2 |
Adaptive modifications in micro opto-electro-mechanical systems
A micro-opto-electromechanical rotation rate sensor (MOERRS) device, in which a rotation rate sensor is associated with peripheral circuitry. The magnitude of the output signal of the MOERRS is adaptable to correspond to a range of mechanical stimuli to which the sensor is sensitive, in order to accommodate the signal magnitude to the dynamic range available in the MOERRS device. The signal emanating from the rotation rate sensor is facilitated to exploit the dynamic range of said MOERRS device, by modifying some properties of one or more items on the MOERRS. |
US08939022B2 |
Level indicator
A level indicator having a support, a thick-film resistor network arranged on the support, a bow that carries a contact structure that produces, depending on the position of the bow, an electrical signal in the thick-film resistor network, a lever arm that is retained in the bow and has a float on its other end. The float has a seat for the lever arm. The lever arm has a pivoting range in a first plane. The float has a second plane that is perpendicular and that extends perpendicular to the first plane and through the center of mass of the float. The float is mounted on the lever arm to be positionally immobile. The seat for the lever arm is arranged in a region of the float which is arranged on the side of the second plane that faces away from the seat of the bow and that is delimited by the second plane and the outer periphery of the float. |
US08939018B2 |
Analyzing device and method for controlling same
An analyzing device includes a feeder connected to a container in which a sample is contained for sucking the sample from the container and feeding the sample, and a controller for performing control for feeding from the feeder to a measurer. In measuring the sample, the controller performs control so that results of a plurality of times of measurement are obtained with respect to the single container in which the sample is contained, without changing the container. This arrangement allows quick accuracy check. |
US08939016B2 |
Flow sentinel
A flow sentinel for improved remote monitoring and control of the flow in a water line serving a residential or commercial structure comprises: (1) a watertight case having a first side and a second side oppositely placed; (2) a water inlet positioned in the first side of the watertight case; (3) a water outlet positioned in the second side of the watertight case; (4) a water flow meter in operable contact with the water inlet and the water outlet; (5) at least one means for display and/or remote transmission of the flow rate of the water; (6) an alarm; (7) means for shutting off the flow in a water line; and (8) means for powering the water flow meter. |
US08939015B2 |
Testing imbibition of fluid
A convenient method of testing imbibition of one or more imbibant fluids by a matrix of particles with a fluid already therein, comprises making a body 4 of packed particles with a matrix fluid filling the interstices between the particles, placing an imbibant fluid in each of a plurality of capillaries 6, 7, partially inserting each capillary into the body 4 so that part of the capillary with imbibant fluid therein projects from the body 4 and observing time for fluid to be taken from each capillary into the body. The method allows comparison of multiple imbibant fluids by placing each fluid in a respective capillary. |
US08939014B2 |
Identification and use of an isomorphously substituted molecular sieve material for gas separation
The identification, synthesis, and use of an isomorphously substituted molecular sieve material having structural frameworks substituted with a preselected substitution element for a framework element of the molecular sieve material can result in a preferred transport controlling window size range for the optimal separation of a target gas component from a gaseous mixture containing said target gas component. |
US08939011B2 |
On-line analyzer for VOCs and method of using the same
The present invention relates to an on-line analyzer for VOCs in gas and method of using the same, comprising: a sampling device, a gas supply device and a refrigerating device connected to the sampling device and the gas supply device respectively; the on-line analyzer for VOCs in gas with two cryo-focuses in empty tubes and two detectors also comprises a gas flow control device connected to the sampling device and the gas-supply device respectively, an analyzing device connected to the gas flow control device, and a data acquisition and processing device connected to the analyzing device. Therefore, the present invention has a following advantage: the present invention runs automatically and continuously over a long period since it uses electronic refrigeration technique to achieve cryo-refrigeration, instead of using liquid nitrogen refrigeration technique which needs frequent addition of liquid nitrogen and limits application conditions. |
US08939010B2 |
System and method for diagnosing faults in an oxygen sensor
A system according to the principles of the present disclosure includes an error period module and a sensor diagnostic module. The error period module determines an error period based on an amount of time that a first air/fuel ratio and a desired air/fuel ratio are different. A first oxygen sensor generates a first signal indicating the first air/fuel ratio. The sensor diagnostic module diagnoses a fault in the first oxygen sensor when the error period is greater than a predetermined period. |
US08939008B2 |
Calibration artefact for calibrating an articulating probe head
A method of calibrating an articulating probe head comprising the steps of measuring an artifact of known dimensions with the workpiece sensing probe mounted on the articulating probe head, in which the articulating probe head is unlocked. An error functional map is generated corresponding to the difference between the measured and known dimensions of the artifact. Subsequent workpieces are measured with the articulating probe head unlocked and the corresponding correction applied. The true dimensions of the artifact may be determined by measuring it with a probe mounted on an articulating probe head in which the axes of the articulating probe head are locked. A mechanical lock is provided to lock the axes of the articulating probe head. |
US08939007B2 |
Inertial force sensor and zero point correction method used therein
A detecting unit outputs an object signal corresponding to an inertial force. A corrected signal is generated by correcting the object signal. A first environment value is obtained at a first time point. A second environment value is obtained at a second time point after the first time point. An environment difference value which is a difference between the first and second environment values is calculated. An environment change detection signal is output when an absolute value of the environment difference value is larger than a predetermined determination threshold. A first averaged signal is output by averaging a corrected signal in a predetermined period continuing to the first time point. A second averaging signal is output by averaging the corrected signal in a predetermined period continuing to the second time point. An offset difference value which is a difference between the first and second averaged signals is calculated. The offset difference value is stored when the environment change detection signal is output. The corrected signal is generated by adding the stored offset difference value to the object signal. This method can easily reduce the output offset even if an environment, such as an ambient temperature, abruptly changes. |
US08939006B2 |
Photoacoustic detector with long term drift compensation
A photoacoustic detector wherein control circuits compensate for long term variations of components therein including a light source and sensing microphones. The control circuits intermittently energize the source to evaluate changes in at least source resistance. The control circuits intermittently energize an acoustic generator to evaluate changes in one or more generator responsive microphones. |
US08939003B2 |
Method and device for the production of a stamping with almost smooth cutting and enlarged functional surface
A method and device for production of stampings with an almost smooth cutting and enlarged functional surface, especially fine blanking and/or forming a workpiece out of a flat strip, wherein flat strip is clamped between an upper part consisting of a shearing punch, a pressure pad, a V-shaped projection and an ejector arranged on the pressure pad, and a lower part consisting of cutting die, ejector and an inner form stamp. By adjusting the state of stress in the cutting zone to a position oriented compressive stress by movement slightly retarded with regard to movement of the shearing punch additionally pressing in material in a direction almost perpendicular to the cutting direction by a tool element acting with controlled force depending on the part geometry and thickness of the workpiece parallel to the cutting line between shearing punch and cutting die, tears at cutting and reduced rollover are achieved. |
US08938994B2 |
Method for re-establishing the symmetrical temperature profile at the exit from a bend in a feeder, and feeder for implementing the method
A method for re-establishing or tending to re-establish symmetrical distribution of temperatures between right-hand and left-hand sides of a cross section of a flow of molten glass that has been routed in a feeder including at least one bend area, thermal asymmetry having been induced by flowing round a bend. The feeder includes a flow channel, formed from refractory and insulative material elements and including a horizontal sole plate and two lateral walls, and a vault capping the channel, formed of a refractory roof and lateral parts including burners. In an area of each bend, the flow channel is modified by choosing a corresponding inclined sole plate portion, the inclination being chosen so that the flow channel is deeper in an outside region of the bend than in its inside region, heights of the two lateral walls of the channel being modified accordingly. |
US08938993B2 |
Glass strengthening and patterning methods
High intensity plasma-arc heat sources, such as a plasma-arc lamp, are used to irradiate glass, glass ceramics and/or ceramic materials to strengthen the glass. The same high intensity plasma-arc heat source may also be used to form a permanent pattern on the glass surface—the pattern being raised above the glass surface and integral with the glass (formed of the same material) by use of, for example, a screen-printed ink composition having been irradiated by the heat source. |
US08938988B2 |
Multichannel heat exchanger with dissimilar flow
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems and heat exchangers are provided that include multichannel tube configurations designed to promote flow of refrigerant within the multichannel tubes near the edges of the tubes that are contacted first by an external fluid. The tube configurations include flow paths of varying cross-sections, spacings, and sizes. Flow control mechanisms, such as inserts, blocking plates, sleeves, crimped sections, and crushed sections, may be employed with the flow paths to favor flow near the edges of the tubes that are contacted first by an external fluid. |
US08938981B2 |
Vapor compression dehumidifier
A dehumidification apparatus comprises an air inlet configured to receive an inlet airflow that is separated into a process airflow and a bypass airflow. An evaporator unit is operable to cool the process airflow by facilitating heat transfer from the process airflow to a flow of refrigerant as the process airflow passes through the evaporator unit. A condenser unit operable to (1) reheat the process airflow by facilitating heat transfer from the flow of refrigerant to the process airflow as the process airflow passes through a first portion of the condenser unit, and (2) heat the bypass airflow by facilitating heat transfer from the flow of refrigerant to the bypass airflow as the bypass airflow passes through a second portion of the condenser unit. The process airflow is discharged into the structure via a process airflow outlet and the bypass airflow is discharged into the structure via a bypass airflow outlet. |
US08938980B2 |
Integrated ice maker pump
A refrigerator includes a refrigerator cabinet, an ice maker disposed within the refrigerator cabinet, a pump fluidly connected to the ice maker and configured for pumping cooling media to the ice maker, and a motor operatively connected to the ice maker and configured to provide oscillating movement to the ice maker. The pump is operatively connected to the motor such that driving of the motor results in the pumping of the cooling media with the pump. |
US08938976B2 |
Structural frame for gas turbine combustion cap assembly
An intermediate support frame (68) that spans an inner diameter of a support ring (48) of a gas turbine combustor cap assembly (24) at a position intermediate the length of the support ring. The intermediate support frame may have a central encirclement (72) that receives a central fuel pre-mix tube (44) of the combustor cap assembly, and may further have a circular array of outer stabilization rings (70) that each receive a respective outer pre-mix tube (42). The central pre-mix tube may be affixed to the central encirclement (72), for example by welding. The outer pre-mix tubes may be slidably engaged in the outer stabilization rings (70), providing lateral stability while allowing differential thermal expansion. The intermediate support frame may have holes (74) for coolant passage, and perimeter tabs (76) for attachment to the support ring (48). |
US08938969B2 |
Combustor and rotating machine
A combustor includes: a combustor basket configured to surround a fuel nozzle from an outer circumferential side, and a plurality of connecting members formed in a circumferential direction at intervals to connect a rear end of the combustor basket and a casing and configured to define a flow path through which compressed air introduced into the combustor basket flows. A circulation direction of the compressed air flowing through the flow path is configured to be reversed at a rear end of the combustor basket and the compressed air is introduced into the fuel nozzle. The flow path is partially or entirely inclined in the circumferential direction to blow the compressed air. |
US08938965B1 |
Thermal powered reciprocating-force motor
A thermal-powered reciprocating-force motor includes a shutter switchable between a first position that passes solar energy and a second position that blocks solar energy. A shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator is coupled to the shutter to control switching thereof between the shutter's first and second position. The actuator is positioned with respect to the shutter such that (i) solar energy impinges on the SMA when the shutter is in its first position so that the SMA experiences contraction in length until the shutter is switched to its second position, and (ii) solar energy is impeded from impingement on the SMA when the shutter is in its second position so that the SMA experiences extension in length. Elastic members coupled to the actuator apply a force to the SMA that aids in its extension in length until the shutter is switched to its first position. |
US08938962B2 |
Exhaust system
An exhaust system for an engine includes a first exhaust manifold configured to receive exhaust from the engine, a second exhaust manifold configured to receive exhaust from the engine in parallel with the first exhaust manifold, and at least two turbochargers configured to receive exhaust from the first and second exhaust manifolds. The system also includes a first turbocharger valve fluidly connected to one of the at least two turbochargers. The first turbocharger valve is configured to selectively fluidly connect the one of the at least two turbochargers to the first and second exhaust manifolds. The system further includes a recirculation circuit in fluid communication with the first exhaust manifold. The recirculation circuit includes a first recirculation valve configured to regulate passage of exhaust through the recirculation circuit. |
US08938961B2 |
EGR flow sensor for an engine
A disclosed method of operating an engine may include discharging exhaust gas from at least one combustion chamber of the engine. The method may also include recirculating at least a portion of the exhaust gas to the at least one combustion chamber through an EGR system, including directing at least a portion of the exhaust gas through an EGR duct. Additionally, the method may include sensing pressure in a portion of the EGR duct by directing the pressure to a first pressure sensor via a first sensor passage having a first end connected to a portion of the EGR duct and a second end connected to the first pressure sensor, while maintaining a temperature of gas in the first sensor passage adjacent the second end at a bulk temperature of at least about 75 percent of a bulk temperature of gas in the first sensor passage at the first end. |
US08938954B2 |
Integrated exhaust treatment device having compact configuration
An exhaust treatment device is disclosed. The exhaust treatment device has a compact configuration that includes integrated reactant dosing, reactant mixing and contaminant removal/treatment. The mixing can be achieved at least in part by a swirl structure and contaminant removal can include NOx reduction. |
US08938953B2 |
Exhaust gas purifying method
A method of purifying an exhaust gas, includes: disposing a NOx trapping catalyst in an exhaust pipe of an internal combustion engine, the NOx trapping catalyst including: a metal substrate including cells, a corner portion of each of cells having an acute angle; and a catalyst layer supported in the metal substrate and including a noble metal, a heat-resistant inorganic oxide and a NOx trapping material, the catalyst layer having pores formed by addition of a pore formation promoting material, and the NOx trapping catalyst: adsorbing NOx in the exhaust gas when an exhaust air-fuel ratio is in a lean state; and desorbing and reducing the adsorbed NOx when the exhaust air-fuel ratio is in a stoichiometric state or a rich state; and removing the NOx by the exhaust air-fuel ratio being shifted between the lean state and the rich state. |
US08938951B2 |
Device for storing and supplying ammonia and exhaust line equipped with such a device
A device for storing and supplying ammonia to an exhaust line of an automobile vehicle, includes a solid material provided for absorbing the ammonia, a reservoir for storing the solid material, and a heating unit to heat the solid material to desorb the ammonia. The solid material comprises solid elements with a mass of less than 50 grams. The heating unit is insulated from the reservoir. The device also includes a first assembly for transferring solid elements from the reservoir to the heating unit. |
US08938950B2 |
Turbocharger mixing manifold for an exhaust aftertreatment system for a locomotive having a two-stroke locomotive diesel engine
A turbocharger mixing manifold for an exhaust aftertreatment system for a two-stroke locomotive diesel engine providing for a transition of a non-uniform exhaust gas flow field exiting a turbocharger into a regulated, uniform exhaust gas stream with minimal aerodynamic losses and an even distribution (mixing) of hydrocarbons in liquid, gas or burning states in order to ensure optimal performance of the attached exhaust aftertreatment system. |
US08938940B2 |
Crop divider for an agricultural harvesting head
A crop divider (110, 112) for an agricultural harvesting head (100) is pivotally coupled to a ground engaging arm (136) that is pivotally coupled to a frame (102) of the agricultural harvesting head (100). A mechanical link (154) is also coupled to both the crop divider (110, 112) and to the frame (102) to support the crop divider (110, 112) as the ground engaging arm (136) pivots up and down. |
US08938936B2 |
Method and device for dosing and packaging polysilicon chunks and dosing and packaging unit
Disclosed is a method for dosing and packaging polysilicon chunks, wherein a product flow of polysilicon chunks is transported via a feed channel, separated by at least one screen into coarse and fine chunks, weighed and dosed to a target weight by a dosing balance, discharged via a discharge channel and transported to a packaging unit where a first plastic bag is filled with the polysilicon chunks and sealed, the plastic bag containing polysilicon chunks being packaged with a further plastic bag which is formed by a shaper and subsequently welded, wherein the at least one screen and the dosing balance at least partially include a hard metal on their surfaces and the shaper for forming the plastic bag includes a wear-resistant coating. Also disclosed are a dosing unit, a packaging unit and a device for dosing and packaging polysilicon chunks, which contains a dosing unit and a packaging unit. |
US08938934B2 |
Corner post application system
A corner post application system comprises a conveyor subsystem and an enveloping machine adapted to envelope the plurality of units with a material. The system further includes a swing arm, an applicator arm coupled to the swing arm and adapted to move linearly, a corner post gripper coupled to the applicator arm, and a controller. The controller rotates the swing arm about a vertical axis until a corner post held by the corner post gripper is aligned with adjacent sides that define a corner of the load. The controller thereafter stops rotation of the swing arm and moves the applicator arm linearly toward the corner of the load until the corner post held by the corner post gripper contacts the adjacent sides of the load. A sensor may be included for detecting a corner of the load, with the controller aligning the corner post based on detection by the sensor. |
US08938932B1 |
Rail-less roof mounting system
A rail-less roof mounting system for installing photovoltaic (PV) modules on a roof structure comprises a base mount assembly that engages with a clamp assembly and attaches to the roof structure. The base mount assembly comprises a base member having a waterproof means, a block slider, a top slider and a covering means. An elevated seal portion of a block slider includes a borehole to receive the waterproof means. A vertical engaging portion of the block slider is attached with a sliding seal member of the top slider. The clamp assembly includes a clamp member and a plate member and the clamp member is attached with a track of the top slider. The clamp member interlocks the PV modules to provide a corner-to-corner coupling arrangement, which enables the connection of PV module corners to adjacent PV module corners by sandwiching above and beneath frame members of the PV modules. |
US08938929B2 |
Set of panels with clip
The present subject matter relates to a set of panels, in particular floor panels, including a first panel and at least one second panel, wherein the panels have a first edge and a second edge; the first edge and the second edge are configured to establish a connection between the first and the second panels; the first edge includes a lower lip with a step; the second edge includes a downwardly open locking groove, which in a connected state of the panels, or of the edges, cooperates with the step and ensures a lock in a horizontal direction; the connection can be established by a vertical relative movement of the panels with respect to each other; a separate clip is provided which is disposed on the first edge and includes a movable clip head and a clip base. |
US08938928B2 |
Roofing batten snap spacer
At least one embodiment of the invention describes roofing batten snap spacers that elevate a roofing batten from a roof. In one or more embodiments, the roofing batten snap spacer includes a base element having a first vertical height and having a first side, an opposing side, a first end and an opposing end. According to at least one embodiment, the base element couples with a roofing batten and elevates the roofing batten. The roofing batten may comprise an elongated portion of material having a top surface, a bottom surface and a portion therebetween of a second vertical height, such that the material couples with a roofing material. In at least one embodiment, the base element elevates the roofing batten from a roof by the first vertical height. This enables the roofing material to be offset from the roof by a sum of the first and second vertical heights. |
US08938925B2 |
Insulating floor underlayment
A flooring material having a textile pad substructure with a density of greater than 10 pounds per cubic foot is provided. The textile pad has reinforcement and binding fibers. The binding fibers are thermoplastic and are used to bind the reinforcement fibers together. The pad is created by heating and compressing a fibrous textile batt so that it has a density of greater than 13 pounds per cubic foot. |
US08938924B1 |
Standing seam metal panel roof recover
Metal panel standing seam roof recovers installed over existing metal panel standing seam roof. The metal panel standing seam roof recover system comprises a plurality of recover panel clips mounted to the existing roof and a recover attached to the recover panel clips. The recover panel clips are arranged in linear arrays running along the pitch of the existing roof. The recover panel clips are mounted to the cover panels by a clip fastener extending through a cover sidelap or through a shoulder adjacent a cover sidelap formed in the standing seam metal panels of the existing roof. The recover comprises a plurality of elongated metal recover panels having upstanding sides defining lateral edges with a trough therebetween. The recover panels are interconnected along adjacent lateral edges by sidelaps formed on the recover panel clips. |
US08938918B2 |
Raised floor system grounding
A raised floor pedestal including a base configured to sit on a floor; and a post extending up from the base. The post includes a metal member having a general tube shape. A top of the post forms a support surface configured to support a portion of a raised floor system thereon. A side of the post includes an integrally formed ground conductor connector piece extending therefrom. The ground conductor connector piece is configured to have an electrical ground conductor connected directly thereto. |
US08938912B2 |
Door actuator
A power boost assembly is disclosed that can be used with a door actuator, such as a door closer. The power boost assembly is structured to store an energy during a first movement of a door and release the stored energy during a second movement of the door. In one form the power boost assembly can be structured as a module that can be added to an existing door and door closer installation. In one form the power boost assembly is used to increase a closing force imparted to a door to ensure a latching event. |
US08938911B2 |
Device for sprouting
A device for sprouting includes an element (1; 101; 201) with opposing first and second openings (2, 7; 102, 7; 202, 7), a water and air-permeable material layer (15; 215), wherein the material layer (15; 215) can be removably mounted on the element (1; 101; 201) so that it covers the first opening (2; 102; 202) of the element (1; 101; 201). The device is characterized in that the element (1; 101; 201) is shell-shaped and extends continuously between the first and second openings (2, 7; 102, 7; 202, 7), and the second opening (7) can be closed. |
US08938907B2 |
Anti-snag fishing device
Anti-snag fishing devices suitable for attachment to a fishing hook are disclosed. The fishing hook has a hook eye, a shank, at least one curved hook section and at least one hook point. The anti-snag fishing device includes an elongated body member which when fitted to the fishing hook forms an arc which projects upwardly from at or near the hook eye, reaches its highest point above the plane of the hook point substantially parallel to the shank, then projects downwardly passing by and under the hook point, where it terminates behind the curved section of the fishing hook. |
US08938906B2 |
Winter fish traps and methods of using the same
Winter fish traps and methods of using the same are disclosed. A method of trapping fish is provided that includes locating a substantially immobile group of fish in a body of water, providing a semi-rigid water-permeable trap having a bottom opening, lowering the trap opening over the group of fish onto a bottom surface of the body of water to trap the group of fish, remotely operating a semi-rigid door to cover the trap opening while the fish trap is resting on the bottom surface, and retrieving the fish trap from the body of water. |
US08938903B2 |
Firearm barrel having cartridge chamber preparation facilitating efficient cartridge case extraction and protection against premature bolt failure
To permit ease and efficiency for the extraction of spent cartridge cases from the cartridge chamber of a firearm barrel within a wide range of temperature conditions, the internal tapered surface of the body region of a cartridge chamber is prepared by establishing circumferentially spaced longitudinal straight or curved regions of the internal surface finish to create an internal cartridge chamber geometry having gradually tapered spaced longitudinally relieved linear or spiral areas having longitudinal linear or spiral lands between each of the relieved areas. The circumferentially spaced lands develop controlled impedance to rearward cartridge case movement on cartridge firing to effectively protect the bolt and extractor mechanisms of the firearm against early failure. |
US08938898B2 |
Devices for the identification of medical products
Devices in which components of medical kits are carried are identifiable by means other than by the naked eye. The means for identification is attached to or integral with the device and may comprise raised and lowered surfaces that can be read by touch; serrations disposed on an edge or surface; a fluorescent coating viewable under infrared or ultraviolet light; or a pattern that is viewable using a thermal imaging device such as night vision goggles. A package for retaining a medical item includes an identifying element of a material that is selectively viewable in response to light attributes of the material. A device for the visual identification of a package containing a medical item includes an identifying element comprising a material that is visually discernible in reduced-light environments via the use of night vision devices. |
US08938894B2 |
Automatically adjustable snowthrower chute
A snowthrower includes a body, a chute rotatable relative to the body among multiple chute positions, wherein the chute is configured to discharge snow from the snowthrower, a motor for rotating the chute, a chute position detector configured to detect a current chute position, a compass sensor configured to detect a snowthrower bearing, and an electronic control unit configured to, in a compass guidance operating mode, control the motor to move the chute to an appropriate chute position to maintain the chute at a preferred chute bearing in response to a comparison of the snowthrower bearing detected by the compass sensor and the current chute position detected by the chute position detector. |
US08938893B2 |
Athletic positioning apparatus and applications thereof
An apparatus includes a heel section, a mid-foot section, and a toe section. The heel section, the mid-foot section, and the toe section collectively have a geometric shape having a first slope of a polarity along an inner edge of the apparatus from the toe section to the heel section and a second slope of the polarity along the inner edge of the apparatus to an outer edge of the apparatus at the toe section. |
US08938892B2 |
Systems for activating and/or authenticating electronic devices for operation with footwear and other uses
Articles of footwear and footwear systems include modules, e.g., for sensing physical and/or physiological characteristics associated with use of the footwear or for performing other functions. Such systems and methods may use physical or other interaction(s) between the module and the article of footwear for activating and/or deactivating the module and/or sensing devices included with the module, for confirming whether the module and footwear are authorized for use with one another, and/or for automatic data algorithm selection methods. Additionally, such systems and methods also may use the activation and/or authentication systems for the module for data input to the module. Some examples of such systems and methods may utilize magnets and magnetic sensing systems and/or light (or other radiation) sources and sensing systems for activation, authentication, data input, and/or algorithm selection. |
US08938884B2 |
Electric hair grooming appliance including touchscreen
An electric hair grooming appliance is configured to have one or more operations to facilitate grooming of hair. The electric hair grooming appliance includes a control circuit, and a touchscreen for receiving one or more inputs from a user and to facilitate communication between the user and the control circuit. The touchscreen is configured to send one or more command signals to the control circuit in response to receiving the one or more inputs from the user. The control circuit is configured to control one or more operations of the electric hair grooming appliance in response to receiving one or more of the command signals. |
US08938880B2 |
Method of manufacturing an integrated cold plate for electronics
A cold plate is manufactured by obtaining a base plate with a top surface, a bottom surface, and an edge. An inlet trough and an outlet trough are machined in the top surface. Fins are cut into the base plate with a tool that contacts the base plate in either the inlet trough and the outlet trough and then exits the base plate in the other of the inlet trough and the outlet trough. An inlet nozzle indent is machined from the inlet trough to the edge of the base plate, and an outlet nozzle indent is machined from the outlet trough to the edge of the base plate. A cover covers the inlet and outlet nozzle indents, and an inlet nozzle and outlet nozzle are secured to the inlet and outlet nozzle indents. |
US08938876B2 |
Method of mounting a circuit board
Various circuit board sockets and methods of manufacturing and using the same are disclosed. In one aspect, a method of manufacturing is provided that includes forming a socket that is operable to receive a circuit board. The socket includes a surface for seating a first portion of a circuit board, a floor and a first support structure projecting away from the floor to support a second portion of the circuit board. The support structure includes a plurality of nested frames. In another aspect, a socket with a with socket cover coupled to a socket housing is disclosed. The socket housing includes a support structure to support a portion of the socket cover. |
US08938875B2 |
Component aligning apparatus and electronic component manufacturing method
A component aligning apparatus includes a component aligning jig, in which electronic components to be aligned have a rectangular parallelepiped shape whose length dimension is L, width dimension is W, and thickness dimension is T, the component aligning jig includes electronic component accommodating recesses opening on a surface, the depth Z of the accommodating recesses is shorter than the length L of the electronic components so that a single electronic component is held in each of the electronic component accommodating recesses while partially projecting upwards from each of the recesses with the WT surface on one side facing up, and letting s be the shortest separation that is larger than the thickness T and is the narrowest distance between opposing inside surfaces of each of the accommodating recesses when each of the accommodating recesses is seen in plan view, W>S>T. |
US08938870B1 |
Convertible high/lower pressure outdoor cooking apparatus, kit, and method
An outdoor cooking apparatus includes a frame having a base for engaging an underlying support surface, a cooking surface for receiving a pot and a wind guard having upper and lower edges and a side wall or walls. A first removable support bracket removably attaches to the wind guard, the first bracket supporting a low pressure burner element. A second removable support bracket removably attaches to the wind guard. The second bracket supporting a high pressure burner element includes: i) a cylindrically shaped, vertically oriented tube having a tube wall that surrounds an open ended bore of uniform diameter, the bore communicating with upper and lower end openings, ii) a high pressure gaseous fuel nozzle supported within the open ended bore, the nozzle having a nozzle opening spaced inwardly of the tube wall, iii) a fuel supply tube that enables transmission of a gaseous fuel to the nozzle. |
US08938861B1 |
Removably attachable button
A removably attachable button includes a pin assembly and a cap assembly. The pin assembly has a pair of pins which releasably engage the cap assembly. The cap assembly has a front surface which has the appearance of a button and a rear surface which accepts the pin assembly. The button is utilized to embellish or to replace a missing button on a piece of clothing without needing to access sewing equipment. |
US08938857B2 |
Slide hinge
To provide a slide hinge which can be easily attached to a door or a cabinet main body of honeycomb cardboard, on which attaching screws do not work well, and which is further devised to eliminate a risk of escape from the door after the fixation, fittings enabling a coupling case to be attached to the door even without attaching screws or nails are provided; furthermore, each of the fittings comprises an attaching case part integrally connected to each side portion of the coupling case, and an fitting for each attaching case part; then, this fitting comprises a locking plate housed into the attaching case part and a diameter expanding means pushing out craw portions of the locking plate; the diameter expanding means further comprises an operating plate with pressurizing portions protruding on an outer circumference and a cap locked by a locking plate on each attaching case part. |
US08938855B2 |
Gear hinge device for portable apparatus
Disclosed is a gear hinge device employed in a portable apparatus including first and second housings. The gear hinge device connects the first and second housings in such a manner such that the first and second housings can be rotated about first and second hinge axes, respectively. The gear hinge device includes: a first driving unit comprising a first driving cam gear that is rotated about the first hinge axis and a second driving unit comprising a second driving cam gear that is engaged with the first driving cam gear and rotated about the second hinge axis that is parallel to the first hinge axis and a flexible auxiliary gear that is arranged coaxially to the second driving cam gear. |
US08938850B1 |
Stair vacuum device
A stair vacuum device for automatically vacuuming stairs includes a pair of vacuum units coupled together by a connector. Each vacuum unit comprises a vacuum housing having a slot extending through a bottom surface of the vacuum housing. A plurality of side rollers is coupled to the vacuum housing for moving the vacuum housing in a first direction. A plurality of forward rollers is coupled to the vacuum housing for moving the vacuum housing in a second direction transverse to the first direction. A suction device is coupled to and positioned in the vacuum housing such that the suction device provides suction through the slot in the vacuum housing. The connector couples the vacuum units together in spaced relationship wherein the vacuum units move in tandem to vacuum the adjacent stair surfaces simultaneously. |
US08938845B2 |
Liquid heating device with two flow paths for an automobile
The invention relates to a liquid heating device for an automobile that comprises two independent liquid flow paths (10a, 10b) integrally formed in at least one part (1a) made of a heat-conducting material, each liquid flow path (10a) being capable of enabling a flow of liquid between a connection terminal defining an inlet and a connection terminal defining an outlet (12a, 12b), each of the connection terminals being capable of sealingly receiving a liquid supply duct or tube, and a heating means (14) thermally coupled with said part (1a) and capable of heating said part (1a) so that the liquid flowing through said flow paths can absorb the heat of said part (1a). The invention advantageously enables the very flexible use thereof for one or more systems requiring heated liquid inside a single vehicle. |
US08938844B1 |
Vehicle and utility drying cloth
A drying cloth for drying a large vehicle or structure. The drying cloth may be made of absorbent fabric sewn to form a fabric shell with a hollow center extending between a first and a second opening. The drying cloth may also have a pole opening formed therethrough mid-way between the first opening and the second opening and a first seam edge and a second seam edge extending between the pole opening and the second opening to cooperatively form an openable seam. The openable seam may be placed in an attached and an unattached configuration via attaching and detaching attachment devices of the drying cloth. The drying cloth may be attachable to a cleaning tool having an elongated handle and an end fixture attached to the handle. The elongated handle may fit through the pole opening and the drying cloth is sized to loosely fit over the end fixture. |
US08938841B1 |
Tooth brushing system
A tooth brushing system for effectively removing debris and bacteria has an elongated linear handle with a conical flossing brush pivotally located on a handle second end. The system has a tooth brush head with a generally spherical surface with a brush head first side and a brush head second side each having a pair of angular notches and an angular secondary projection linearly located from the brush head top side to the brush head bottom side. A plurality of bristles of a first length is located on a tooth brush head spherical surface. A plurality of bristles of a second length, smaller than the first length, is located on the surfaces of the angular notches, and the angular secondary projections. |
US08938840B2 |
Hygienic door handle system and method
The invention provides a system and method for self-cleaning a door handle (4) by utilizing the kinetic energy of opening a door (1). A cable (3), for example a multi-link chain, fixed to the door frame (2) and a gear assembly (10, 11, 12) is provided such that linear displacement of said cable is converted to potential energy in response to movement of said door. The invention provides a means for rotating a drive roller (5) to co-operate with the door handle to clean said door handle, only when the door handle is released and the door is closing or closed. The potential energy provides the energy to enable the rotation of the drive roller. |
US08938832B2 |
Wheel weight tool
A wheel weight tool includes a handle connected to a hammer head on a first end and having a first hook on a second end. The first hook may be adapted for removing a wheel weight. The hammer head has a soft end and a hard end. The hard end may include a second hook. |
US08938826B2 |
Patient positioning support structure
A patient support system includes independently adjustable columns supporting a hinged bending or breaking patient support structure. At least one column includes at least two sections. A coordinated drive system provides for upwardly breaking and downwardly breaking orientations of the two sections in various inclined and tilted positions. |
US08938821B2 |
Coupler for improved flow to an external drain
A bushing (58) has an entry portion (68) which is secured to a urinal housing (50) and an exit portion (70) which faces a drain pipe (54, 54a, 54b). The entry portion interior surface (74) is fittable about and sealingly grips the urinal exit tube (52). The interiors of the entry and exit portions lie on a common axis (58x) and with the axis (52x) of the urinal exit tube. These axes define a sloped incline and, thus, a built-in, gravitationally-directed downwardly-disposed inclination. Because the axes usually do not fall on the axis (56x) of the conduit, they are angled and offset from the conduit axis. The offset of the bushing raises it above the axis of the conduit. Tubing (60, 60a) is secured at its end (62, 62a) to the bushing exit portion so that the tubing axis at its end (62, 62a) similarly is raised above the conduit axis. The tubing extends from the bushing at an incline that is determined by the built-in incline of the bushing. This tubing is smaller in its outer diameter than the inner diameter of the conduit so that the tubing can pass through the conduit and into the drain pipe. The interior surface (74) of the bushing is offset from its outer surface which is secured to the conduit. Thus, the tubing is allowed to ensure that the conduit will not so contact the tubing as to deleteriously affect the downward inclination of the tubing. An orientation indicator tab (92) on the bushing ensures that its inclined orientation is properly positioned vis-a-vis the conduit. The exterior surfaces of the bushing are designed to enable it to fit within a variety of conduits, to accommodate new and existing connections such as flanges and hardware associated with the drain pipe, to ensure its durability, and to otherwise enable retrofitting to new and existing installations. |
US08938818B2 |
Sports helmet
A football helmet includes a plastic shell having an offset band extending around a rear region of the shell and above the lower edge surface of the shell. The offset band includes an offset band wall having an inner band surface offset from an inner shell wall surface, and an outer band surface offset from and outer shell wall surface. A pair of angled transition walls extends between the offset band wall and a rear region of the shell. The shell also includes a raised central band integrally formed as part of the shell and extending across the crown region to the rear region. |
US08938814B2 |
Glove, and method for producing the same
A glove comprising a glove body made from fibers; and a plurality of convexities fixed at least on the palm side area of the external surface of the glove body, the convexities comprising a base material made of a rubber or a resin, and a filler contained in the base material. |
US08938812B1 |
Deodorant stain protector for clothing
A pair of protectors or shields for protecting an exterior of clothing from deodorant stains or smudges while getting dressed is disclosed. The shield is constructed of a material/materials that, when worn, cover and shield deodorant-covered areas of armpits of the user while the user is getting dressed. A strap is provided on each shield, the strap typically positioned on respective shoulders, and which hold the deodorant shields in place in the armpits. After the user finishes donning clothes and the clothes are in place, the deodorant shields are removed. Disposable and reusable deodorant shields are disclosed. |
US08943609B2 |
Apparatus and method for configuring password and for releasing lock
Methods of configuring a different authority for a plurality of users to use at least one application in an electronic device. User inputs are received to set passwords for respective user levels, where each user level is associated with a different authority to access applications. The passwords are registered for the respective user levels. At least one application is associated with one of the user levels. |
US08943607B2 |
Information processing device with user authentication that restores previous operation condition
An information processing device includes an authenticating part to authenticate a user; an operating part for setting information, an authentication canceling part to cancel an authentication of the user, an operation condition memory part to cause a second memory part to memorize the setting information memorized in a first memory part, and a reproducing part to confirm whether or not the setting information is memorized in the second memory part when the authenticating part authenticates the user. In a case where memorized, the reproducing part reads the setting information from the second memory part, and to reproduce an operation condition based on the read setting information. In a case where not memorized, the reproducing part displays a non-user condition specification screen for the user's selecting one of multiple functions. |
US08943605B1 |
Proximity based digital rights management
A method, system, and medium are provided for sharing content among network devices. The system includes at least one base station and network devices that are part of a wireless network. The base station is configured to receive a request for content from a network device. The content may be available on a second network device proximate to the first network device. The base station may generate a temporary key that allows the first network device to access the content available on the second network device while proximity between the first network device and the second network device is maintained. The base station, in turn, transmits the temporary key to the first network device. |
US08943602B2 |
Method for enhancing privacy of internet browser users
A method for enhancing the privacy of individuals who may be tracked while visiting different sites on the Internet using conventional browsers is disclosed. The method is based on randomizing the information collected in cookies that are used for tracking by different websites. |
US08943597B2 |
Systems and methods for updating content detection devices and systems
Systems, methods, and software for processing received network traffic in view of content detection data and configuration data that defines policies to either block, permit, or to further evaluate network traffic content on the policies when network traffic is entering a network. |
US08943594B1 |
Cyber attack disruption through multiple detonations of received payloads
Apparatus and method for disrupting cyber attacks. In accordance with some embodiments, the apparatus includes a local computer system and an associated security system. The security system employs a decoy environment operationally isolated from the local computer system. The decoy environment operates to, responsive to receipt of a payload from an outside source, load the received payload into a memory of the decoy environment and detonate the loaded payload a plurality of times. |
US08943590B2 |
Concurrent and delayed processing of malware with reduced I/O interference
Systems, methods and non-transitory, tangible computer readable storage mediums encoded with processor readable instructions to scan files for malware are disclosed. An exemplary method includes writing, via a communication pathway, a first file to a storage medium that is utilized by the computer, requesting access to the first file so as to enable the first file to be scanned for malware, and delaying, when the first file resides on the storage medium, access to the first file while there is at least one I/O operation relative to the storage medium that has a higher priority level than a priority level of the request to access the first file. In addition, except to enable the first file to be scanned for malware, access to the first file is prevented until the first file has been scanned for malware. |
US08943583B2 |
System and method for managing sonic token verifiers
A hand-held token can be operated to generate an acoustic signal representing the digital signature generated by a private key of a public key/private key pair. Verifiers that might be located at, e.g., buildings, in vehicles, at bank ATMs, etc. receive the signal and retrieve the corresponding public key to selectively grant access authorization to components served by the verifiers. Methods and systems permit adding and removing a token from the access list of a verifier. Other methods and systems enable the token to be used with several verifiers that are nearby each other, such as might be the case with multiple vehicles owned by the same user and parked nearby each other, without more than one verifier being operated to grant access. |
US08943582B1 |
Transferring information among devices using cameras
Data on a first computing device can be represented by a graphical object displayed on a screen of the first device. A user can initiate an “attach event” (e.g., a pinching gesture with respect to the object) to enable the object (e.g., the data represented by the object) to be associated and/or virtually attached to him/her. One or more cameras can view/track the user's hand/finger movement(s). Based on the viewed/tracked movement(s), the object representing the data can be moved on a screen of the first device to correspond to the movement of the user's hand/finger. The object can also be moved to a position on a screen of a second computing device when the user moves his/her hand/finger to an area corresponding to the position. A user initiated “release event” (e.g., an unpinching gesture) can end the association and enable the data to be shared with the second device. |
US08943580B2 |
Embedded authentication systems in an electronic device
This invention is directed to an electronic device with an embedded authentication system for restricting access to device resources. The authentication system may include one or more sensors operative to detect biometric information of a user. The sensors may be positioned in the device such that the sensors may detect appropriate biometric information as the user operates the device, without requiring the user to perform a step for providing the biometric information (e.g., embedding a fingerprint sensor in an input mechanism instead of providing a fingerprint sensor in a separate part of the device housing). In some embodiments, the authentication system may be operative to detect a visual or temporal pattern of inputs to authenticate a user. In response to authenticating, a user may access restricted files, applications (e.g., applications purchased by the user), or settings (e.g., application settings such as contacts or saved game profile). |
US08943577B1 |
Distributed multi-processing security gateway
A system and method for a distributed multi-processing security gateway establishes a host side session, selects a proxy network address for a server, uses the proxy network address to establish a server side session, receives a data packet, assigns a central processing unit core from a plurality of central processing unit cores in a multi-core processor of the security gateway to process the data packet, processes the data packet according to security policies, and sends the processed data packet. The proxy network address is selected such that a same central processing unit core is assigned to process data packets from the server side session and the host side session. By assigning central processing unit cores in this manner, higher capable security gateways are provided. |
US08943576B2 |
Optimization of spawning request handling processes in a secured computing environment
Systems and methods for associating a first process with a first state and a first computing environment initialized according to a first set of parameters, wherein a first task is to be performed under a first security context. The method further comprising associating a second process with a second state and a second computing environment initialized according to a second set of parameters; in response to the first process submitting a first request, the second process spawning a third process which has the second state; wherein the third process sets a security context for the third process to the first security context and the third process sets the computing environment for the third process according to a first a set of parameters; executing the third process under the first security context and in association with the second state; and executing the first task in the first computing environment. |
US08943574B2 |
Tokenizing sensitive data
Included are systems and methods for tokenizing sensitive data. Some of the systems and/or methods are configured to receive sensitive data from a vendor, determine a token key for the vendor, and utilize a proprietary algorithm, based on the token key to generate a vendor-specific token that is associated with the sensitive data. Some systems and/or methods include creating a token identifier that comprises data related to the token key sending the vendor-specific token and the token identifier to the vendor. |
US08943565B2 |
Recovery of information from commercial web portals
Novel tools and techniques for automated recovery of information from commercial web portals, including commercial web portals requiring credentials for access. In some instances images are captured and pushed to external processes for improving system performance. In some instances access to automated software agent remote control modules is balanced across a system comprising a plurality of processors hosting the automated software agent remote control modules. Some instances provide provisioning of credentials, in particular indicating credentials available for an unlimited or a select limited number of users and monitoring credential use of those credentials usable by a select number of users. Some instances provide cache management optimizes retrieval of data by external processes and ensures reliability of such data to reduce unnecessary web portal inquiries. |
US08943564B2 |
Virtual computer and service
A virtual computer service includes receiving, at a network server computer over a network, an encrypted image and user credentials for a user of a computer, and storing the encrypted image and the user credentials in an image repository that is communicatively coupled to the network server computer. The virtual computer service also includes receiving a request to initiate a session, the request including the user credentials. Upon successful validation of the user credentials, the virtual computer service includes selecting the encrypted image from the image repository, decrypting the encrypted image, activating a session for a virtual computer associated with the computer, and synchronizing session details of the session, once completed, with the image and storing a synchronized image in the image repository. |
US08943561B2 |
Text message authentication system
Systems and method for authenticating users are presented. A system can send a passkey to a user interface of a known device. A user can then send a messaging service message with the passkey from a second device to the system. After receiving the message from the user, the system can extract the passkey from the message, and compare the received passkey against the passkey originally sent to the user. The known device and the second device can each have separate and unique device identifiers. |
US08943560B2 |
Techniques to provision and manage a digital telephone to authenticate with a network
Techniques to manage digital telephones are described. An apparatus may comprise a digital telephone management component having a telephone interface module operative to receive security information in the form of a personal identification number (PIN) for an operator or device. The digital telephone management component may also comprise a telephone security module communicatively coupled to the telephone interface module, the telephone security module operative to receive encrypted security credentials from a computing device, and decrypt the encrypted security credentials with the PIN. The digital telephone management component may further comprise a telephone authentication module communicatively coupled to the telephone security module, the telephone authentication module operative to authenticate the digital telephone using the security credentials. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
US08943559B2 |
Access authentication method and system
A method of authenticating access to an electrical device. The method comprises comparing, at an electronic processor, one or more patterns of temporal or physical properties, associated with an access entry string, to a non-transitory electronic profile data base of ranges of the corresponding patterns, from previously approved access entry strings. The method also comprises approving or denying at the electronic processor, the access entry string. The access entry string is approved if the one or more patterns falls within the respective range of the corresponding patterns in the profile data base. The access entry string is denied if the one or more patterns falls outside the respective range of the corresponding patterns in the profile data base. |
US08943558B2 |
System and method for monitoring a threat
A method and a system for monitoring a threat are described. The system has a gateway, a web server, and a client device. The gateway detects, identifies, and tracks a threat at a location associated with the gateway. The gateway is coupled to a security device. The web server has a management application configured to communicate with the gateway. The client device communicates with the gateway identified by the web server. The gateway aggregates monitoring data from the security device and from other security devices respectively coupled to other gateways correlated with the gateway. The client device receives the aggregated monitoring data and controls the security device coupled to the respective gateway from a web-based user interface at the client device. |
US08943557B2 |
Enrollment of user in device identification program
Embodiments of the invention are directed to systems, methods and computer program products for enrolling a user in a device identification program. In some embodiments, a system is configured to: receive device identification information from a mobile device, receive user information associated with a user, the user information enabling identification of the user, associate the device identification information with the user information, and create a record based on the device identification information and the user information. |
US08943544B2 |
Service information provision apparatus and service information acquisition apparatus
A service information provision apparatus is provided with a data service information table configured from a service discovery information table showing association of specific information of a service provider and service discovery information as service content information provided by the service provider, and a service offer information table showing association of the service discovery information of the service discovery information table and data contents corresponding to the service discovery information. |
US08943542B2 |
Systems and methods for providing predefined category-based channel lists
Various embodiments facilitate generation, distribution, and presentation of category-based predefined channel lists. In one embodiment, an electronic program guide (“EPG”) manager is provided for execution on a receiving device, such as a set-top box. The EPG manager receives from a program distributor a predefined channel list that includes multiple channels that carry related programming. The channel list includes an associated category and indicators of the multiple channels, the multiple channels each carrying at least some programming in the associated category. The EPG manager presents to a user at least some of the multiple channels in an electronic program guide. This abstract is provided to comply with rules requiring an abstract, and it is submitted with the intention that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. |
US08943531B2 |
Increasing pay-per-use credit associated with guest room in response to notification message tracking usage of service offered by hospitality establishment
A hospitality establishment includes guest rooms having media devices installed therein. Each guest room has one or more in-room media devices for providing a pay-per-use media function. A media system controller dynamically associates a credit corresponding to a monetary value with a particular guest room in response to an occurrence of a first event, configures an in-room media device of the particular guest room to indicate the credit associated with the particular guest room and allow a guest of the particular guest room to utilize at least an amount of the credit toward an order of the pay-per-use media function, activates the pay-per-use media function on at least one of the in-room media devices of the particular guest room in response to a received order, and decreases the credit associated with the particular guest room according to the amount of the credit utilized toward the received order. |
US08943528B1 |
Probabilistic matching of television program audio signals
A system for probabilistic matching of audio sample from a television program includes a computer readable storage medium having encoded thereon an audio matching program; and a processor that executes the audio matching program. The processor receives reference audio for time slices corresponding to a broadcast television program for each of a plurality of channels broadcasting television programming; receives a first audio sample from a media device on which is displayed the broadcast television program; selects one or more candidate channels to test to determine a channel to which the media device is tuned; compares the first audio sample to the selected candidate channels to determine a match between the first audio sample and one or more of the selected candidate channels; and when the first audio sample matches a reference audio from a selected candidate channel, identifying, with a specified probability, the selected candidate channel as the tuned to channel. |
US08943527B2 |
Audience measurement system
An audience measurement system plays and records television program material on a client system's persistent storage device. Program guide objects are stored on the client system and indicate when television programs are broadcast. A client system stores a viewer's television viewing habits and behavior. Information such as what television programs a viewer watches and/or prefers, and when a viewer uses trickplay functions while watching a television program (such as: variable rate fast forward and rewind, frame step, index, pause, variable rate reverse play, variable rate play, and play) are stored on the client system which the client sends to a central server. The central server stores viewer information from all client systems such that the information obtained is anonymous. The aggregated information is used by the central server to compile statistical reports and make predictions. Data are analyzed to create reports covering information that includes, but is not limited to: aggregate viewer behavior in relation to a specific television program; aggregate viewer response to specific commercial pods; and aggregate viewer behavior in relation to tuning out of a specific television program and viewer tune-in destinations. The central server also analyzes aggregate information to predict viewing activity and program ratings. |
US08943521B2 |
CD player with vibration suppression
A compact disc (CD) player, which comprises playback substrates, a conveying roller, CD sensors, a CD stopper, a first trigger member, frame members, cam members and moving members, wherein the CD stopper has a major axis and abutting portions disposed at both ends of the axis; the first trigger member rotates when a minor-diameter CD stops at a mounting position on a turntable; the frame members receive the movement of the first trigger member; the cam members are coupled to the frame members; the moving members receive the rotation of the CD sensor and move along the outside diameter of a CD; the moving members are provided with clamping portions and abutted portions configured to be clamped with the abutting portions; and the cam members are provided with clamped portions configured to abut against the clamping portions. |
US08943515B2 |
Methods, systems and computer readable media for pasting data
A method of pasting data from a source application to a destination application, where the source and destination applications are not the same; the method comprising the steps of: identifying a data type for the data and an appropriate input handler for the data type; converting the data using the appropriate input handle to a standard format based on the data type; in an output module determining the context of the data in the standard format to identify an appropriate output handler; obtaining a suggested paste operation from a suggestion engine based on the type and context of the data; and instructing a paste operation on the basis of the suggested paste operation. |
US08943513B2 |
Systems and methods for load balancing drives and servers by pushing a copy of a frequently accessed file to another disk drive
A file system that balances the loading of filers and the capacity of drives that are associated with the filers is described. The file system includes a first disk drive that includes a first unused capacity and a second disk drive that includes a second unused capacity, wherein the second unused capacity is smaller than the first unused capacity. The file system further includes a first filer that is configured to fill requests from clients through access to at least the first disk drive. The file system further includes a second filer that is configured to fill requests from clients through access to at least the second disk drive. The second filer is configured to select an infrequently accessed file from the second disk drive and to push the infrequently accessed files to the first disk drive, thereby improving a balance of unused capacity between the first and second disk drives without substantially affecting a loading for each of the first and second filers. |
US08943512B2 |
Systems and methods for facilitating virtualization of a heterogeneous processor pool
A system for facilitating virtualization of a heterogeneous processor pool includes a processor allocation component and a hypervisor, each executing on a host computer. The processor allocation component identifies a plurality of physical processors available for computing and determines a set of flags, each of the set of flags identifying a type of functionality provided by each of a subset of the plurality of physical processors. The hypervisor, in communication with the processor allocation component, allocates, to at least one virtual machine, access to one of the subset of the plurality of physical processors. |
US08943511B2 |
Parallel allocation optimization device, parallel allocation optimization method, and computer-readable recording medium
A parallel allocation calculating unit calculates a parallel allocation candidate which is an element candidate in target data allocated per processing performed in parallel. A parallel calculation amount estimation processing unit estimates the calculation amount required for parallel processing when a parallel allocation candidate is allocated, based on a nonzero element count in the target data. An optimality decision processing unit decides whether or not the parallel allocation candidate is optimal based on the calculated calculation amount, and allocates the optimal element per processing performed in parallel. |
US08943510B2 |
Mutual-exclusion algorithms resilient to transient memory faults
Techniques for implementing mutual-exclusion algorithms that are also fault-resistant are described herein. For instance, this document describes systems that implement fault-resistant, mutual-exclusion algorithms that at least prevent simultaneous access of a shared resource by multiple threads when (i) one of the multiple threads is in its critical section, and (ii) the other thread(s) are waiting in a loop to enter their respective critical sections. In some instances, these algorithms are fault-tolerant to prevent simultaneous access of the shared resource regardless of a state of the multiple threads executing on the system. In some instances, these algorithms may resist (e.g., tolerate entirely) transient memory faults (or “soft errors”). |
US08943509B2 |
Method, apparatus, and computer program product for scheduling work in a stream-oriented computer system with configurable networks
A method, apparatus, and computer program product for scheduling stream-based applications in a distributed computer system with configurable networks are provided. The method includes choosing, at a highest temporal level, jobs that will run, an optimal template alternative for the jobs that will run, network topology, and candidate processing nodes for processing elements of the optimal template alternative for each running job to maximize importance of work performed by the system. The method further includes making, at a medium temporal level, fractional allocations and re-allocations of the candidate processing elements to the processing nodes in the system to react to changing importance of the work. The method also includes revising, at a lowest temporal level, the fractional allocations and re-allocations on a continual basis to react to burstiness of the work, and to differences between projected and real progress of the work. |
US08943506B2 |
Client-side virtualization architecture using differential bi-directional synchronization and closed computing
The invention discloses the architecture of client-side virtualization, utilizing the techniques of differential bi-directional synchronization of layered data and closed computing, as an extension to virtual desktop infrastructure. Both the client and server run a virtual machine monitor on top of which user application data, system data, personal application, group application, and guest operating system are layered independently. Layer independence is achieved by system data redirection, cache acceleration, and application composing/decomposing method. The client can be securely protected via the push-OS concept, security links, and closed computing services, including virtual machine subscription management control and network resource control services. |
US08943498B2 |
Method and apparatus for swapping virtual machine memory
A method and system for swapping memory of a virtual machine are described. In one embodiment, virtual machines are hosted by a server and accessed by remote clients over a network. The server assigns first storage and second storage to each virtual machine, where the first storage is designated for swap memory of a respective virtual machine and the second storage is designated for persistent data of a respective virtual machine. The server monitors events pertaining to the virtual machines. Upon detecting a predefined event pertaining to one of the virtual machines, the server causes the contents of the first storage to be wiped out. |
US08943496B2 |
Providing a hosted appliance and migrating the appliance to an on-premise environment
An appliance support module can be configured to build software appliances for use in a hosted environment. The appliance support module can be configured to build the hosted appliances based on a request by a user for the hosted appliances. The appliance support module can be configured to receive a request to migrate the hosted appliances to an on-premise system. To migrate the hosted appliance, the appliance support module can be configured to convert the hosted appliances into a format capable of being supported by the on-premise systems. |
US08943493B2 |
Automation of application deployment
Some embodiments of automating application deployment have been presented. In one embodiment, a production repository is created in a federated source code management system to accept software from only a single committer. The production repository is coupled to a set of repositories. Platform management infrastructure monitors the production repository for changes to the software. Further, the platform management infrastructure may automatically push the changes to one or more repositories affected. |
US08943491B2 |
Systems and methods for maintaining CRTM code
Embodiments comprise systems, methods and media for updating CRTM code in a computing machine. In one embodiment, the CRTM code initially resides in ROM and updated CRTM is stored in a staging area of the ROM. A logical partition of L2 cache may be created to store a heap and a stack and a data store. The data store holds updated CRTM code copied to the L2 cache. When a computing system is started, it first executes CRTM code. The CRTM code checks the staging area of the ROM to determine if there is updated CRTM code. If so, then CRTM code is copied into the L2 cache to be executed from there. The CRTM code loads the updated code into the cache and verifies its signature. The CRTM code then copies the updated code into the cache where the current CRTM code is located. |
US08943488B2 |
Video game forward compatibility including software patching
Methods for updating video game software or handheld game devices, and systems for performing the methods. In some embodiments a first handheld game device with a later version of a game update software of a second handheld game device with an earlier version of the game. |
US08943487B2 |
Optimizing libraries for validating C++ programs using symbolic execution
Particular embodiments optimize a C++ function comprising one or more loops for symbolic execution, comprising for each loop, if there is a branching condition within the loop, then rewrite the loop to move the branching condition outside the loop. Particular embodiments may further optimize the C++ function through simplified symbolic expressions and adding constructs forcing delayed interpretation of symbolic expressions during the symbolic execution. |
US08943486B2 |
Multiple instruction execution mode resource-constrained device
A resource-constrained device comprises a processor configured to execute multiple instruction streams comprising multiple instructions having an opcode and zero or more operands. Each of the multiple instruction streams is associated with one of multiple instruction execution modes having an instruction set comprising multiple instruction implementations. At least one of the multiple instruction implementations is configured to change the processor from a first instruction execution mode to a second instruction execution mode. The processor comprises an instruction fetcher configured to fetch an instruction from one of the multiple instruction streams based at least in part upon a current instruction execution mode. |
US08943485B2 |
Identification of localizable function calls
Detecting localizable native methods may include statically analyzing a native binary file of a native method. For each function call invoked in the native binary, it is checked whether resources accessed through the function call is locally available or not. If all resources accessed though the native method is locally available, the method is annotated as localizable. |
US08943481B2 |
Method and apparatus for extensibility of user interface binding definitions
Embodiments create a binding specifications file that is compatible with a user interface application from a grammar rich XML file. The grammar rich XML file uses a complex DTD for transformation. The complex DTD may be prone to error if created by the user, therefore, the complex DTD file is automatically created from a schema definition provided by the user or user's agent. The user or user's agent defines a schema for the desired grammar level. Through a series of XSL transformations, the complex DTD file is created. Also, a stylesheet used for transforming the grammar rich XML file is automatically created. The grammar rich XML file provided by the user conforms to the automatically created complex DTD file. Thus, the grammar used in defining bindings of a user interface application is extensible without any requirement to enrich and recompile the application anytime an extension of the language is desired. |
US08943478B2 |
Fault detection and localization in dynamic software applications
The present invention provides a system, computer program product and a computer implemented method for prioritizing code fragments based on the use of a software oracle and on a correlation between the executed code fragments and the output they produce. Also described is a computer-implemented method generates additional user inputs based on execution information associated with path constraints and based on information from the oracle. Advantageously, the embodiment is useful in a test generation tool that generated many similar inputs when a failure-inducing input is found, in order to enhance fault localization. Further, described is a computer-implemented flow for extending the existing idea of concolic testing to applications that interact with persistent state. |
US08943477B2 |
Debugging a graphical user interface code script with non-intrusive overlays
An embodiment of the present invention manages window focus non-intrusive over-lays while debugging a graphical user interface program. In an example, the computer displays in a first graphical user interface, wherein the computer program is designed to manipulate a second graphical user interface of another computer program. The computer receives a command to debug the second graphical interface computer program and converts the first graphical user interface into a focus-less graphical user interface so the focus does not transfer from the second graphical user interface. The computer debugs the computer program and upon completing debugging, the computer restores the first graphical user interface into focus. |
US08943476B2 |
System and method to in-line script dependencies
Systems, methods and articles of manufacture to in-line script dependencies are discussed herein. An embodiment includes extracting test resources addressed in language defining a test web page, placing markers identifying the location of each extracted test resource within the language defining the test page, iteratively loading external resources associated with a path of each test resource, analyzing each test resource to identify one or more dynamically added dependencies, and replacing each marker with external resources and dependencies that reference their respective marker to generate updated language defining an updated test web page. The embodiment further includes adding each identified dependency after or before a top level parent resource, performing the analyzing and the adding until no new dependencies are identified and providing each new dependency with a reference to a parent marker associated with the top level parent resource. |
US08943472B1 |
System and method for directly accessing SAS datasets from a JAVA program
A system and method for reading and writing datasets (SAS datasets) written in a proprietary runtime macro language (SAS, owned by the SAS Institute, Inc.) directly, without going through a system that uses the SAS proprietary runtime macro language. The system employs a JAVA Database Connectivity (JDBC) application program interface (API) driver usable by JDBC enabled JAVA applications. The driver extracts from the SAS dataset information from a header page that enables identification of information on metadata pages which in turn are used by the driver to present to the JAVA application a view of the data as a database table, from which the JAVA application can request reading and writing of the SAS dataset. |
US08943469B2 |
Type generic graphical programming
A system and method for creating and using type generic graphical programs. The method may include storing a first graphical program on a memory medium. The first graphical program may have been created based on user input. The first graphical program may include a plurality of nodes and interconnections between the nodes, and the plurality of nodes and interconnections between the nodes may be type generic. User input may be received specifying one or more data types of at least one input and/or at least one output of the first graphical program. The data types may be associated with the first graphical program in response to said user input specifying the one or more data types. |
US08943466B2 |
Data elements with selectable signal/parameter behavior control
A method for designing software in a software design includes providing, in a software design tool, a software block including one or more data elements of one of signal-type or parameter-type. At least one of the one or more data elements is designated as one of a port or a property. If the at least one data element is designated as a property, a value associated with the property is established. Alternatively, if the at least one data element is designated as a port, a connection with one or more software blocks associated with the software design environment is established. The method also includes generating at least a portion of software code associated with the software block based on the designation of the at least one data element. |
US08943464B2 |
Continuous updating of technical debt status
A system and method to automatically and continuously update the urgency rating of a backlog item associated with a technical debt item in a software development project are described. The technical debt represents potential additional work or rework associated with current code. The method includes a user defining a plurality of components that comprise the software development project. The method also includes a processor associating the technical debt with one or more components of the plurality of components, and the processor updating the urgency of the backlog item associated with the technical debt according to a function based on a development event associated with at least one of the one or more components. |
US08943461B2 |
Stepwise template integration method and system
A method, apparatus and computer program product is provided to create an integration process between a source system and target system. The method includes creating a mapping between one or more source objects and one or more target objects and generating a complete workflow as part of an integration process between a respective source system and target system. A limited subset of operations is selectively included from a sequence of activities in the complete workflow that interact with the one or more source objects and one or more target objects. The limited subset of operations selected from the complete workflow is sequenced in a stepwise template that streamlines the integration process between the source system and target system, by focusing on mappings between and operations performed upon source objects and target objects associated with the limited subset of operations selected from the operations in the complete workflow. |
US08943456B2 |
Layout determining for wide wire on-chip interconnect lines
A method for determining the layout of an interconnect line is provided including: providing a required width for the interconnect line; determining a layout of the interconnect line including slotting the interconnect line to provide two or more fingers extending along the interconnect line with an elongate slot separating adjacent fingers; and determining a number of elongate apertures to be arranged across the width of the interconnect line by comparing the required width with a maximal width for a solid metal feature, and a minimal elongate aperture width. The two or more fingers and elongate slot may be of constant width and equally spaced across the interconnect line width. The method may include selecting the number of fingers and the width of the slots to optimize the layout for a given layer technology. |
US08943455B2 |
Methods for layout verification for polysilicon cell edge structures in FinFET standard cells
Methods for standard cells using finFET standard cell structures with polysilicon on OD edges. Standard cells are defined using finFET transistors and having gate structures forming a transistor at an intersection with a semiconductor fin. Polysilicon dummy structures are formed on the edges of the active areas or OD areas of the standard cells. In a design flow, a pre-layout netlist schematic for the standard cells includes a three terminal MOS device corresponding to the polysilicon dummy structure on the edges of the standard cell. After an automated place and route process forms a device layout using the standard cells, a post layout netlist is extracted. Where two standard cells abut one another, a single polysilicon dummy structure is formed on the common boundary. A layout versus schematic comparison is then performed comparing the pre-layout netlist and the post-layout netlist to verify the layout obtained. Additional methods are disclosed. |
US08943453B2 |
Automatic application-rule checker
A method of checking an integrated circuit design database includes providing the integrated circuit design stored in a storage media; providing application rules; and providing an instance abstract of instances of libraries and IP(s). Instance-level information is extracted from the integrated circuit design database. An application-rule check is performed against the instance-level information using the information provided in an abstract file. |
US08943449B1 |
Method and apparatus of enabling direct memory access into a target system memory modeled in dual abstractions while ensuring coherency
The present patent document relates to a method and apparatus for enabling direct memory access into a target memory subsystem of an electronic system modeled in dual abstractions while maintaining coherency. The portions of the memory subsystem shared between the first abstraction and the second abstraction are shadowed in both abstractions, allowing either abstraction to coherently access memory written by the other. Flags associated with memory pages of the memory subsystem are set to indicate which abstraction has most recently updated the memory page. Where the first abstraction is SystemC using TLM2, DMI access may be selectively enabled to facilitate faster access from SystemC, and DMI access disabled when an access from the second abstraction is detected in order to invoke coherency procedures. This allows coherency to be maintained and may enable faster software code execution where most access are DMI accesses from SystemC. |
US08943448B2 |
System, method, and computer program product for providing a debugger using a common hardware database
A hardware model database is identified which stores a graph-based common representation of a hardware design that includes hardware module nodes each representative of a unique module of the hardware design and associated with one or more instances of the unique module. Additionally, a signal dump resulting from a simulation of a logic code model of the hardware design is identified. Each instance of each unique module is identified using the hardware model database, and for each assertion condition included therein, a corresponding value for the assertion condition is determined from the signal dump. Further, a construct of the hardware design corresponding to each instance of each unique module is conditionally displayed by a debugger application, based on the determined values of the corresponding assertion conditions included in the instance of the unique module. |
US08943444B2 |
Semiconductor device reliability model and methodologies for use thereof
Systems and methods for semiconductor device reliability qualification during semiconductor device design. A method is provided that includes defining performance process window bins for a performance window. The method further includes determining at least one failure mechanism for each bin assignment. The method further includes generating different reliability models when the at least one failure mechanism is a function of the process window, and generating common reliability models when the at least one failure mechanism is not the function of the process window. The method further includes identifying at least one risk factor for each bin assignment, and generating aggregate models using a manufacturing line distribution. The method further includes determining a fail rate by bin and optimizing a line center to minimize product fail rate. The method further includes determining a fail rate by bin and scrapping production as a function of a manufacturing line excursion event. |
US08943443B1 |
Verification of computer simulation of photolithographic process
A method for calibrating a computer program that simulates a physical process and a photomask are disclosed. A first physical artifact may be exposed to the physical process to produce a second physical artifact. The first physical artifact may include one or more features characterized by traceably measured known dimensions. One or more features of the second physical artifact may be measured to produce one or more measured dimensions. The physical process may be simulated with a computer simulation using the known dimensions of the first physical artifact as inputs to produce an output. The output may be compared to the measured dimensions of the second physical artifact to produce a result. A figure of merit may be assigned to the computer simulation based on the result. The photomask may have one or more features with one or more traceably measured dimensions. |
US08943442B1 |
Controlling operations for execution
A computer-implemented method of controlling operations for execution includes displaying, in a display device area that controls a process of operations, a current container providing at least a first operation to the process, and a linear sequence representing parent containers of the current container organized in a hierarchy. The method includes receiving, in a system generating the display device area, a partial-performance request identifying a subset of the parent containers defined between the current container and a level in the hierarchy. The method includes performing, in response to the partial-performance request, the first operation and those of the operations that the subset of the parent containers provide to the process. |
US08943441B1 |
Graphical user interface relationship graph for displaying relationships between image backup files in a backup job
Graphical user interface relationship graph for displaying relationships between image backup files in a backup job. In one example embodiment, one or more non-transitory computer-readable media store a program that causes a processor to generate and visually present, on an electronic display device associated with the processor, a graphical user interface (GUI) relationship graph for displaying relationships between image backup files in a backup job. The GUI relationship graph includes multiple image nodes each representing an image backup file of a source storage and a chain path including multiple links. Each of the links represents a parent-child relationship between one of the image nodes and another of the image nodes. |
US08943435B2 |
Phone service menus
A method for receiving from a customer, customer subscription data at a menu tree service center prior to receiving a customer request from the customer, wherein the customer subscription data comprises at least one linked customer number linked to a spoken word or phrase. The method sends a service provider request for the linked customer number to the customer via the menu tree service center. The method receives a verbal response from the customer at the menu tree service center, wherein the verbal response comprises the spoken word or phrase. The method retrieves the linked customer number from the menu tree service center server based on the verbal response. The method sends the linked customer number to the service provider. |
US08943434B2 |
Method and apparatus for showing stored window display
Systems and methods are provided for changing a user interface for a multi-screen device. The user interface can change based on the movement of a window. The system can receive a user interface event that modifies the display of windows in the user interface. Upon receiving the user interface event, the system determines if a window has been covered or uncovered. If a window has been covered, the window is placed in a sleep state. If a window is uncovered, the window is activated from a sleep state. A sleep state is a window state where an application associated with the window does not receive user interface inputs and/or does not render the window. Moreover, in a sleep state an image representing the window is maintained in memory. |
US08943431B2 |
Text operations in a bitmap-based document
Techniques and structures that facilitate text operations in a bitmap-based document are described. In some embodiments, a bitmap image, as well as one or more data structures that may include text code data and text coordinate data, may be generated from an original document. Text coordinate data may relate a location of the text code data to a location in the bitmap image. In some embodiments, a bitmap representation of text and one or more data structures, that may include a set of coordinates of the bitmap representation of text and text code data corresponding to the set of coordinates and the bitmap image may be received. Text operations may be performed on the bitmap representation of text. |
US08943430B2 |
Overlay navigation in user interface
A user interface (UI) for a process control system is disclosed. The UI is configured to be displayed on an electronic visual display unit connectable to the process control system. The UI includes a plurality of sub-UIs, each sub-UI being adapted to visually indicate at least a part of a process controlled by the process control system. A selection sub-UI is provided that can be selectively activated and deactivated by the user or operator, which selection sub-UI enables the user to at least temporarily select one or more of a plurality of visual representations corresponding to corresponding ones of the plurality of sub-UIs. When the selection sub-UI is deactivated, sub-UI corresponding to the selected one or more of the plurality of visual representations is displayed on the display unit. |
US08943427B2 |
Method for providing user interface based on multiple displays and mobile terminal using the same
Disclosed is a user interface, and particularly, to a method for providing a user interface based on multiple displays and a mobile terminal using the same. The method for providing a user interface of a mobile terminal comprises controlling transparency of a first display unit, controlling the first display unit to display a first screen, controlling a second display unit to display a second screen, and controlling the second display unit to display one or more parts of the first screen. |
US08943424B2 |
Dynamic interface component control support
A system, computer program and method for developing a graphical user interface (GUI) in a computer program. The invention allows developers to control the properties of interface components according to the state of a program during execution. According to the invention, a GUI development environment may be configured to provide a GUI builder for creating the GUI, display an interface component with at least one interface component property to be instantiated in the GUI, display a property interface to input at least one value for the interface component property in response to an event detectable by the computer program during GUI program execution, and automatically generate GUI program code effectuating the value for the interface component property in response to the event detectable by the computer program during GUI program execution. |
US08943422B2 |
System and method for a messaging interface
Computer-implemented systems and methods for a simplified messaging interface are provided for allowing users to initiate and engage in messaging conversations. In various embodiments, the systems and methods reduce the overhead involved in initiating and/or engaging in messaging conversations. In some embodiments, the messaging interface allows users to initiate and/or engage in conversations without having to open a separate standard messaging window for every conversation. In some embodiments, the simplified messaging interface may be used in conjunction with a standard messaging interface. |
US08943420B2 |
Augmenting a field of view
The claimed subject matter relates to an architecture that can enhance an experience associated with indicia related to a local environment. In particular, the architecture can receive an image that depicts a view of the local environment including a set of entities represented in the image. One or more of the entities can be matched or correlated to modeled entities included in a geospatial model of the environment, potentially based upon location and direction, in order to scope or frame the view depicted in the image to a modeled view. In addition, the architecture can select additional content that can be presented. The additional content typically relates to services or data associated with modeled entities included in the geospatial model or associated with modeled entities included in an image-based data store. |
US08943414B2 |
Identifying URL target hostnames
Techniques are provided for displaying a uniform resource locator (URL) to assist a user in determining whether a URL destination is what the user expects. A link is presented for selection to a user, and a URL corresponding to the link is accessed. A portion of the URL that corresponds to a hostname component of the URL may be identified, and the URL may be displayed. The hostname component of the URL is visually distinguished from other components of the URL. In addition to or as an alternative to displaying the URL and visually distinguishing the hostname component, a warning message relating to the hostname portion of the URL may be displayed. The techniques may be implemented as a software plug-in or in any type of software application that is capable of recognizing URLs. |
US08943410B2 |
Modified media presentation during scrubbing
A computer-implemented method includes displaying, within a user interface in a digital media system, a thumbnail representing at least a portion of a media clip, receiving user input corresponding to a play speed at which a media clip is to be played, determining whether the received user input exceeds one or more predetermined thresholds, and selectively disabling playing of a video portion or an audio portion, or both, based on a result of the determination. |
US08943408B2 |
Text image review process
Techniques that facilitate review of bitmapped representations of text in a file are described. In some embodiments, one or more signals representative of cursor movements over a bitmapped representation of text in a bitmap image may be received. One or more selected text elements may be determined based on the cursor movements. Determining may include searching a data structure, separate from the bitmap image, which includes information regarding text element locations corresponding to the bitmapped text representation in the bitmap image. A portion of the bitmapped representation of text corresponding to the determined selected text elements may be highlighted. |
US08943407B2 |
Snooze support for event reminders
Snooze support for event reminders produced on a hand held mobile device is disclosed. Snooze support in at least one example embodiment is characterized by an event reminder rescheduling method. This event reminder rescheduling method includes the step of prompting for a device user to take one of a number of actions in relation to an event reminder released from an event reminders queue. One of the number of actions is requesting, through operation of one or more input components of the mobile device, that the event reminder be generated again after a lapse of a snooze time. |
US08943399B1 |
System and method for maintaining position information for positioned elements in a document, invoking objects to lay out the elements, and displaying the document
A list indicating positions of positioned elements on a page of a document is maintained by a page object associated with the page. First position information indicating a first position of a first positioned element having a position that conflicts with a location of a first element associated with the page is transmitted by the page object to a first element object associated with the first element, the first element object being subordinate to the page object within a hierarchy. The first element object generates first layout data. The list is updated by the page object based on a position of a second positioned element having a position that conflicts with the first element. A second element object associated with a second element associated with the page, and subordinate to the page object within the hierarchy, is invoked by the page object to generate second layout data. |
US08943393B1 |
Distributed burst error protection
A method of protecting digital words traversing multiple data paths is presented. The method identifies a number of bits for a header of a digital word and determines a number of protection bits for the header. A bit value for each of the protection bits is computed, and the computed bit values of the protection bits are transmitted through one or more data paths. |
US08943391B2 |
Cyclic code decoding method and cyclic code decoder
In a cyclic code decoding method, a decoder analyzes a received codeword to identify unreliable symbols in the codeword, and sets candidate syndrome patterns accordingly. Then, a syndrome calculator calculates evaluated syndrome values associated with one of the candidate syndrome patterns, and an error location polynomial (ELP) generator generates an ELP according to the syndrome values. An error correction device corrects the errors in the codeword according to the ELP when a degree of the ELP is not more than a threshold value, and the syndrome calculator adjusts the syndrome values and the ELP generator generates another ELP according to the adjusted syndrome values when otherwise. |
US08943389B2 |
Signal transmission/reception circuit
A data buffer section stores input words, and outputs them to a first signal line group in order. An error checking and correcting code is generated that has the same number of bits as the words. Some bits are not to be output at the same time within the range of the first and second signal line groups or within the range of a partial signal line group included in the first and second signal line groups. A code transmission section outputs the error checking and correcting code to different signal lines of the second signal line group respectively, such that a plurality of bits in a code word are not output at the same time within the range of the first and second signal line groups or within the range of a partial signal line group included in the first and second signal line groups. |
US08943388B2 |
Techniques for encoding and decoding using a combinatorial number system
A data storage system includes a memory circuit having memory cells and a control circuit. The control circuit is operable to receive data bits provided for storage in the memory cells. A subset of the memory cells have predetermined stuck-at faults. The control circuit is operable to compute a binomial coefficient for each of the predetermined stuck-at faults based on a bit position of a corresponding one of the predetermined stuck-at faults within the memory cells. The control circuit is operable to add together the binomial coefficients to generate an encoded number using a combinatorial number system. The control circuit is operable to generate a first set of redundant bits that indicate the encoded number. The first set of redundant bits are used to decode bits read from the memory cells to regenerate the data bits. |
US08943387B2 |
Programming management data for a memory
Methods, apparatus, systems, and data structures may operate to combine block management data with a portion of data, to generate error correction data for the combined portion, and to store the data, the block management data, the error correction data for the combined portion, and error correction data for the data in a memory. Additional embodiments may operate to generate or store error correction data for each of a plurality of sectors of a page except for a particular sector in the page and combine block management data with the particular sector to generate a modified sector. Additional embodiments may operate to generate or store error correction data for the modified sector and combine the plurality of sectors, the error correction data for each of the plurality of sectors other than the particular page, and the block management data and the error correction data for the modified sector. |
US08943385B2 |
NAND memory management
Apparatus, systems, and methods to manage NAND memory are described. In one embodiment, a memory controller logic is configured to apply a binary parity check code to a binary string and convert the binary string to a ternary string. |
US08943384B2 |
Using a soft decoder with hard data
A method for re-using a soft decoder involves receiving soft data and hard data from memory cells in a memory device, mapping the soft data to a first set of soft information, mapping the hard data to a second set of soft information, and using the soft decoder to decode both the first set and second set of soft information. |
US08943383B2 |
Systems and methods for encoding and decoding of check-irregular non-systematic IRA codes
Systems and methods for encoding and decoding check-irregular non-systematic IRA codes of messages in any communication or electronic system where capacity achieving coding is desired. According to these systems and methods, IRA coding strategies, including ones that employ capacity-approaching non-systematic IRA codes that are irregular and that exhibit a low error floor, are employed. These non-systematic IRA codes are particularly advantageous in scenarios in which up to half of coded bits could be lost due to channel impairments and/or where complementary coded bits are desired to transmit over two or more communications sub-channels. An encoder includes information bit repeaters and encoders, one or more interleavers, check node combiners, a check node by-pass and an accumulator. A decoder includes a demapper, one or more check node processors, an accumulator decoder, a bit decoder, and one or more interleavers/deinterleavers. |
US08943376B2 |
Position independent testing of circuits
Scan distributor, collector, and controller circuitry connect to the functional inputs and outputs of core circuitry on integrated circuits to provide testing through those functional inputs and outputs. Multiplexer and demultiplexer circuits select between the scan circuitry and the functional inputs and outputs. The core circuitry can also be provided with built-in scan distributor, collector, and controller circuitry to avoid having to add it external of the core circuitry. With appropriately placed built-in scan distributor and collector circuits, connecting together the functional inputs and outputs of the core circuitry also connects together the scan distributor and collector circuitry in each core. This can provide a hierarchy of scan circuitry and reduce the need for separate test interconnects and multiplexers. |
US08943375B2 |
Combo static flop with full test
A SRAM (Static Random Access Memory) macro test flop circuit includes a flip-flop circuit, a scan control circuit, and an output buffer circuit. The flip-flop circuit includes a master latch circuit and a slave latch circuit. The master latch circuit includes a master storage node and a multiplexer. The slave latch circuit includes a slave storage node driven by the master latch. The scan control circuit includes a scan slave feed-forward circuit, a scan latch circuit, and a scan driver circuit driven by the scan feed-back circuit. The scan latch circuit includes a scan feed-back circuit, a scan storage node, and a scan feed-forward circuit driven from the slave latch. The output buffer circuit includes a master driver driven from the master latch circuit and a slave driver driven from the slave latch circuit. |
US08943374B2 |
Writing scheme for phase change material-content addressable memory
A system for programming a phase change material-content addressable memory (PCM-CAM). The system includes a receiving unit for receiving a word to be written in the PCM-CAM. The word includes low bits represented by a low resistance state in the PCM-CAM and high bits represented by a high resistance state in the PCM-CAM. The system includes a writing unit configured to repeatedly write the low bits in memory cells of the PCM-CAM until the resistance of the memory cells are below a threshold value, and to write high bits in memory cells of the PCM-CAM only once. |
US08943370B2 |
Trace value correlation with data field declarations
Data fields within a trace data set are interpreted by a processor using a data field declaration of each data field that identifies a data type of the respective data field. An actual data value of the interpreted data field is compared with the data field declaration for each interpreted data field. Based upon each comparison, a determination is made as to whether the actual data value of the interpreted data field contains an erroneous data value based upon the data field declaration. |
US08943368B2 |
Method for computer-aided detection of errors during the execution of one or more software-based programs in a system of components
A method detects errors during execution of software based programs in a system of motor vehicle components. During execution a component executes its assigned program, and the components call each other interactively. When a component is called, a program identity and an error parameter are transmitted from the other component to the component. If a component identifies an error during execution, it stores an active error entry that contains the program identity, the component identification and an error status. If a component, which has called another component, receives the component identification, it stores a passive error entry that contains the program identity, its component identification and the identification of the other component. A component, which stores one or more active or passive error entries, returns the program identity and the component identification of the component, at least once during program execution, to the component that has called it. |
US08943366B2 |
Administering checkpoints for incident analysis
Methods, apparatuses, and computer program products for administering checkpoints for incident analysis are provided. Embodiments include a checkpoint manager receiving from each incident analyzer of a plurality of incident analyzers, a checkpoint indicating an incident having the oldest identification number still in analysis by the incident analyzer at the time associated with the checkpoint. The checkpoint manager examines each received checkpoint to identify, as a restore incident, an incident having the oldest identification number indicated in any of the received checkpoints. A monitor sends to the incident analyzers, a stream of incidents beginning with the identified restore incident and continuing with any incidents having a newer identification number than the identified restore incident. Each incident analyzer processes from the stream of incidents only the incident indicated in the last checkpoint of the incident analyzer and any subsequent incidents having a newer identification number than the indicated incident. |
US08943362B2 |
Control and monitoring for fast millimeter-wave link using out-of-band wireless channel
A method for fast and efficient data downloading in wireless communications. The method includes ways to download file data of a large size from a server (access point) to a user's client (mobile device) at high speed and efficiency by using both mmWave wireless communication and conventional wireless communication (WiFi, 3G, etc.). A server transmits packetized file data to a client. The file data is transmitted as data packets via mmWave. In parallel, the server transmits check packets (roll-call packets) corresponding to the data packets. As a test at the time of establishing links, the latency for each communication line is measured. The receiver side, upon completion of receiving the check packets, checks whether their corresponding mmWave packets have arrived. If any corresponding mmWave packet has not arrived, it is determined that the mmWave packet has been lost and a retransmission request is immediately returned to the server via WiFi. |
US08943355B2 |
Cloud data storage system
A cloud data storage system is provided for multiple clients to access data of files comprising at least one node connecting to a first storage means; at least one namenode module for processing file operations issued from the clients, namenode module issuing data access instructions to access and maintain the metadata on the first storage means; at least one datanode module respectively executing on at least one node, each datanode module functioning to scan and access a second storage means connected thereto; at least one data import module selectively executing on nodes in which datanode module are executing, the data import module scanning a second storage means newly connected to the cloud data storage system and obtaining a corresponding metadata, and executing data migration operation for the data in second storage means without actual physical uploading operation. |
US08943353B2 |
Assigning nodes to jobs based on reliability factors
Assigning nodes to jobs based on reliability factors includes calculating the maximum value of a processor utilization efficiency and assigning an optimal number of spare nodes to the job based on the value of the processor utilization efficiency. |
US08943348B2 |
Method and system for offloading a computation to other computing units in the same device or to a server on a network based upon a computing time and a power consumption of each of the computing units and the server
A decision method considering time and power consumption for offloading computations is provided. The method includes: obtaining a computing mission; obtaining a plurality of static effect factors from an effect factor table; collecting a plurality of dynamic effect factors. The method also includes: generating power consumptions and computing time that each of the computing unit and each of the server consumes according to the dynamic effect factors and the static effect factors; calculating cost values of executing the computing mission according to the power consumptions and the computing time; determining a target unit to execute the computing mission according to the cost values, in which the target unit is a computing unit or a server; executing the computing mission by the target unit. Therefore, the power consumptions and the computing time are simultaneously considered, and computations are adequately allocated to one of the computing unit and the servers. |
US08943346B2 |
Distributed advanced power management
Power management commands from virtual machines (VMs) in a VM environment may be trapped by a VM monitor. Depending on the current power states of the other VMs in the VM environment, the VMM may emulate increase or decrease in available resources as applied to the VM issuing the power management commands. The VMM may modify the actual hardware resources available in a platform when such modification may not affect the current power states of the VMs in the VM environment. |
US08943342B2 |
Power supply circuit employed in computer for performing different standby modes
A power supply circuit includes a basic input output system (BIOS), a super input output (SIO), a bivibrator, a logical selector, and a voltage converter. The basic input output system (BIOS) is configured for storing different operation modes of a computer. The super input output (SIO) is configured for generating standby mode signals according to the different operation modes. The bivibrator is configured for generating a reference signal when upon receiving a clock signal from the computer when the computer is turned on. The logical selector is configured for generating a standby control signal in response to the reference signal and one of the standby mode signals. The voltage converter is configured for transforming the first standby voltage into a second standby voltage to drive the SIO. The SIO receives the second standby voltage before the clock signal is delayed and provided to the SIO to start the computer. |
US08943340B2 |
Controlling a turbo mode frequency of a processor
In one embodiment, the present invention includes a multicore processor with a power controller to control a frequency at which the processor operates. More specifically, the power controller can limit a maximum operating frequency of the processor to less than a configured maximum operating frequency to enable a reduction in a number of frequency transitions occurring responsive to power state events, thus avoiding the overhead of operations performed in handling such transitions. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
US08943338B2 |
Server power system
A power server system includes a power transmission interface, a power supply and a battery backup unit (BBU). The power supply converts an AC power into a DC power and outputs the DC power to the power transmission interface. After the AC power is disconnected, the power supply continues outputting the DC power in a holding period having a rising period and a current sharing period. The BBU outputs a redundant power to the power transmission interface before the power supply stops outputting the DC power. The BBU boosts the voltage level of the redundant power in the rising period, and controls the voltage level of the redundant power to be the same with that of the DC power in the current sharing period, so that the battery output inrush current is reduced and the battery life is extended. |
US08943335B2 |
Battery management and protection system using a module in a sleepwalking mode to monitor operational characteristics of a battery
A battery management and protection system can include various features to improve safety-critical and other functions. Among the features that can be included in some implementations are automatic loading of safety or other parameters during start-up of the system; a centralized timekeeper and an event system that can trigger actions in the system independently of a central processing unit; use of the same modules for both automatically-controlled safety-related measurements and firmware-controlled measurements; enhanced diagnostic features, and a sleepwalking feature that allows certain modules in the system to continue to perform various functions even when the module or the system is in a low-power sleep mode. |
US08943334B2 |
Providing per core voltage and frequency control
In one embodiment, the present invention includes a processor having a plurality of cores and a control logic to control provision of a voltage/frequency to a first core of the plurality of cores independently of provision of a voltage/frequency to at least a second core of the plurality of cores. In some embodiments, the voltages may be provided from one or more internal voltage regulators of the processor. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
US08943333B2 |
Large scale integrated circuit for dynamically changing resonant point
The semiconductor intergrated circuit comprises: a circuit that executes a predetermined process and a switching circuit that selects a power impedance, The switching circuit selects the power impedance, in accordance with a variation in voltage supplied to the circuit, so that a resonant frequency of the semiconductor integrated circuit is different from a operation frequency of the circuit. |
US08943332B2 |
Audit-log integrity using redactable signatures
A method of establishing the integrity of an audit record set is described. The method comprises receiving a set of audit records and generating a first set of random values wherein each audit record in the set corresponds to at least one value of the first set. The method further comprises generating a second set of values based on an audit record and a corresponding value of the first set for each audit record in the set and generating a summary value based on the second set of values. The method further comprises certifying the summary value to generate an integrity certificate enabling verification of the integrity of the audit record set and storing the audit record set and at least one of the first set of values and the generated digital signature. |
US08943331B2 |
Privacy-preserving database system
A database system includes a server, index server and client. In one embodiment the server randomly permutes the order of database records. The server provides to the index server an array of encryption keys by generating a random encryption key corresponding to each permuted database record. The server encrypts each permuted database record with its corresponding encryption key. The index server computes and encrypts a sum of each encryption key and a corresponding random mask and sends a permuted array of masked keys to the server. The index server provides to the client an encrypted database record, and the mask and key corresponding to the encrypted record. The client sends the encrypted sum of the mask and key to the server. The server decrypts the masked key with a public key and sends the decrypted key to the client. The client then recovers the record key and decrypts the record. |
US08943324B2 |
Green energy generation apparatus, mobile device, electric storage apparatus, and management method of green energy information
A method is provided for authenticating characteristics of electrical energy. The method comprises acquiring a key, acquiring an amount of electrical energy, and generating a digital signature based on the amount and the key. The method further comprises generating a certificate comprising the signature and the amount. |
US08943323B2 |
System and method for provisioning device certificates
A method is provided for provisioning a device certificate. A device certificate request is transmitted from a communication device to a server in a communication network using an established communications channel between the communication device and the server. The device certificate request comprises at least a user identifier and a device identifier. The server provides to the communication device a device certificate that includes the user identifier and the device identifier and that is signed by a private key of a certificate authority. |
US08943321B2 |
User identity management for permitting interworking of a bootstrapping architecture and a shared identity service
A method, apparatus and computer program product are provided to facilitate authentication of a request, such as by a mobile terminal, while also supplying information about the user to a service, website, application or the like A method, apparatus and computer program product may provide for interworking a bootstrapping architecture, such as Generic Bootstrapping Architecture, and a shared identity service, such as OpenID architecture In this regard, a method, apparatus and computer program product may provide for a secure session with a service provider through Generic Bootstrapping Architecture while being able to supply the service provider with the user information and/or accessing a user account using OpenID architecture. |
US08943314B2 |
System and method for manipulating a computer file and/or program
A device for manipulating a computer file or program includes a processor. The device includes a network interface which receives commands. The device includes a receiver which receives the commands from the network interface and provides the commands to the processor. The device includes storage having a computer file or program in a memory. Wherein the processor, based on the commands, makes changes to the computer file or program in the memory and suspends and reestablishes user intervention to the computer file or program. A device for manipulating a computer file or program. |
US08943307B2 |
System and method for retaining users' anonymity
A method and a system are provided for generating information that relates to services being utilized by a user, by which: at a user device, retrieving usage information that relates to services consumed by the user of the user device; forwarding by the user device the retrieved usage information towards a central processing unit; at the central processing unit, determining based on the received usage information and based on at least one pre-determined criterion associated with the services being consumed by the user, whether a message should be sent to that user; and if in the affirmative, sending a message to the user that relates to the received usage information, without logging any information that relates to the message being sent to the user, at the central processing unit. |
US08943303B2 |
Monitoring circuit with a window watchdog
A method of monitoring a processing circuit is disclosed. The processing circuit is operable, in a normal operation mode, to generate a sequence of trigger commands, with at least one trigger command of the sequence of trigger commands including time information. At least one window sequence with a closed window period and an open window period is generated such that the duration of the closed window period and/or the open window period is defined, at least in part, by the time information. It is detected if one trigger command is received within the open window period of the at least one sequence. |
US08943301B2 |
Storing branch information in an address table of a processor
Methods for storing branch information in an address table of a processor are disclosed. A processor of the disclosed embodiments may generally include an instruction fetch unit connected to an instruction cache, a branch execution unit, and an address table being connected to the instruction fetch unit and the branch execution unit. The address table may generally be adapted to store a plurality of entries with each entry of the address table being adapted to store a base address and a base instruction tag. In a further embodiment, the branch execution unit may be adapted to determine the address of a branch instruction having an instruction tag based on the base address and the base instruction tag of an entry of the address table associated with the instruction tag. In some embodiments, the address table may further be adapted to store branch information. |
US08943299B2 |
Operating a stack of information in an information handling system
A pointer is for pointing to a next-to-read location within a stack of information. For pushing information onto the stack: a value is saved of the pointer, which points to a first location within the stack as being the next-to-read location; the pointer is updated so that it points to a second location within the stack as being the next-to-read location; and the information is written for storage at the second location. For popping the information from the stack: in response to the pointer, the information is read from the second location as the next-to-read location; and the pointer is restored to equal the saved value so that it points to the first location as being the next-to-read location. |
US08943285B2 |
Methods for migrating data in a server that remains substantially available for use during such migration
Methods and software are provided for “hot migration” of data an original storage unit for a target system to destination storage unit. In one embodiment, a virtual storage device is provided, having a control block mapped to both the original storage unit, as well as to the destination storage unit. The target system is stopped, the virtual storage device is substituted for the original storage unit, and the target system is restarted. The virtual storage device directs requests to the destination storage unit, and fulfills read requests from whichever of the two storage units has a valid copy of data requested (depending, e.g., on whether the data is as yet unchanged, has been re-written, or has been copied, during the migration process). Unchanged data blocks are copies from the original storage unit to the destination storage unit. The target system is stopped, the virtual storage device is disconnected from the target system, and the destination storage unit is connected in its place. Software may also be provided to automate these processes. |
US08943284B2 |
Systems and methods for integrating compute resources in a storage area network
A data processing and storage system includes a compute module for running at least one virtual machine for processing guest data. State data on the at least one virtual machine is collected. The system also includes a storage module communicating with the compute module and storing the guest data. The storage module accesses the state data for controlling storage operations. A cloud storage/compute system is provided that includes a storage module for storing guest data for a virtual machine and operating based on a clock. The cloud storage/compute system also includes a compute module coupled to the storage module for performing operations on the guest data for the virtual machine and operating based on the clock. A method is provided that includes collecting state data on a virtual machine that processes guest data, and controlling storage operations relating to the guest data based on the state data. |
US08943283B2 |
Converting a first address mapping function for mapping addresses to storage locations to a second address mapping function
Provided are a computer program product, system, and method for converting a first address mapping function for mapping addresses to storage locations to a second address mapping function. For each of a plurality of addresses allocated in the storage using the first address mapping function, a node is generated in the second address mapping function. Each node in the second address mapping function associates a logical address with a physical location for the logical address. A determination is made of addresses having unused space and storage space is freed for the determined addresses having the unused space. Indication is made in the second address mapping function that the storage space for the determined addresses has been freed. |
US08943282B1 |
Managing snapshots in cache-based storage systems
A method is used in managing snapshot in cache-based storage systems. A request to create a snapshot of a data object is received. A portion of the data object is cached in a global cache. The data object is associated with a mapping object. The mapping object manages access to the portion of the data object. A snapshot of the data object is created. A snapshot mapping object is associated with the snapshot of the data object. The snapshot mapping object includes a link to the mapping object. The snapshot mapping object is a version of the mapping object and shares the portion of the data object cached in the global cache. |
US08943276B2 |
Efficient discard scans
A plurality of tracks is examined for meeting criteria for a discard scan. In lieu of waiting for a completion of a track access operation, at least one of the plurality of tracks is marked for demotion. An additional discard scan may be subsequently performed for tracks not previously demoted. The discard and additional discard scans may proceed in two phases. |
US08943271B2 |
Distributed cache arrangement
Systems and methods that aggregate memory capacity of multiple computers into a single unified cache, via a layering arrangement. Such layering arrangement is scalable to a plurality of machines and includes a data manager component, an object manager component and a distributed object manager component, which can be implemented in a modular fashion. Moreover, the layering arrangement can provide for an explicit cache tier (e.g., cache-aside architecture) that applications are aware about, wherein decision are made explicitly which objects to put/remove in such applications (as opposed to an implicit cache wherein application do not know the existence of the cache). |
US08943270B2 |
Storage system, storage control method and storage control program
In tiered storage subsystems in which pages are automatically allocated to appropriate storage media based on the access frequency in page units, since the number of storage media is not simply proportional to the performance, it was difficult to design in advance a tier configuration satisfying the required performance. According to the present invention, a cumulative curve of I/O distribution is created based on a result of measurement of I/O accesses performed to the storage subsystem, and RAID groups (RG) are allocated sequentially in order from RGs belonging to tiers having higher performances to the cumulative curve of I/O distribution. When either a performance limitation value or a capacity of the RG exceeds the cumulative curve of I/O distribution, a subsequent RG is allocated, and the process is repeated so as to compute the optimum tier configuration. |
US08943268B2 |
Ternary content addressable memory (TCAM) storage system
A system for ternary content addressable memory (TCAM) storage may include a TCAM having multiple entries and a processor that is communicatively coupled to the TCAM. The processor may be operative to receive a first numerical range and determine a first ternary representation of a second numerical range that encompasses the first numerical range. The processor may be further operative to determine a second ternary representation corresponding to at least one of a lower bound or an upper bound of the first numerical range. The processor may be further operative to store a combination of the first and second ternary representations in one of the entries of the TCAM. In one or more implementations, the numerical range may be a port range and the combination of the ternary representations may be stored in one of the entries of the TCAM as a portion of a packet classification rule. |
US08943266B2 |
Storage system and method of control for storage system
The storage system includes a plurality of storage devices and a storage controller. The storage controller stores a data request quantity indicating the data quantity of write data written to the target area in a specific period, and estimates, based on the quantity of request data and relationship information received from storage devices, the estimated data quantity written to the nonvolatile semiconductor memory chips based on the write data written to the target area in the specific period. The storage controller selects a second logical storage area with an estimated data quantity less than an estimated data quantity for the first logical storage area and assigned to a storage device different from a storage device assigned to the first logical storage area, and migrates the first data stored in the first logical storage area to the second logical storage area. |
US08943265B2 |
Storage array controller
A storage array controller provides a method and system for autonomously issuing trim commands to one or more solid-state storage devices in a storage array. The storage array controller is separate from any operating system running on a host system and separate from any controller in the solid-state storage device(s). The trim commands allow the solid-state storage device to operate more efficiently. |
US08943261B2 |
Efficient memory management in software caches
The use of heap memory is optimized by extending a cache implementation with a CacheInterface base class. An instance of a ReferenceToCache is attached to the CacheInterface base class. The cache implementation is registered to a garbage collector application. The registration is stored as a reference list in a memory. In response to an unsatisfied cache allocation request, a garbage collection cycle is triggered to check heap occupancy. In response to exceeding a threshold value, the reference list is traversed for caches to be cleaned based upon a defined space constraint value. The caches are cleaned in accordance with the defined space constraint value. |
US08943258B2 |
Server direct attached storage shared through virtual SAS expanders
A data storage system includes a first server including: a first plurality of storage disks configured to store data, and a first host bus adapter including a first processor configured to provide a first virtual expander and a first logic component; and a second server including: a second plurality of storage disks configured to store data, and a second host bus adapter including a second processor configured to provide a second virtual expander and a second logic component, wherein the first host bus adapter of the first server is coupled to the second host bus adapter of the second server via a SAS connection, and wherein each of the first plurality of storage disks and the second plurality of storage disks are accessible by each of the first server and the second server. |
US08943256B1 |
Serial data intermediary device, and related systems and methods
An integrated circuit (IC) device can include a serial communication first interface (I/F) circuit electrically coupled to first physical connections of the IC device, and configured to respond to communication signals received at the first physical connections; at least one serial communication second interface (I/F) circuit electrically coupled to second physical connections of the IC device, and configured to enable data transactions over the second physical connections; and a repeater circuit configured to bypass the first I/F circuit and enable serial communication signals to be transmitted from the first physical connections to the second physical connections. Systems including such an IC device and related methods are also disclosed. |
US08943254B2 |
Conversion of a single-wire bus communication protocol
A method of transmission-reception over a serial bus placed, when idle, in a first state at a first voltage, including: a transmit circuit capable of coding a transmission according to a first protocol in which the respective states of the bits are conditioned by time periods of fixed levels, indifferently in the first state or in a second state at a second voltage smaller than the first one; a receive circuit capable of interpreting a communication according to the first protocol; and a protocol converter, interposed between the bus and the transmit and receive circuits, to convert the signals to be transmitted to a second protocol in which the respective states of the bits are conditioned by respective time periods of fixed levels in the first state, and to convert the received signals from the second protocol to the first protocol. |
US08943252B2 |
Latency sensitive software interrupt and thread scheduling
Various embodiments provide an ability to schedule latency-sensitive tasks based, at least in part, upon one or more processor cores usage metrics. Some embodiments gather information associated with whether one or more processor cores are in a heavily loaded state. Alternately or additionally, some embodiments gather information identifying latency-sensitive tasks. Task(s) can be (re)assigned to different processor core(s) for execution when it has been determined that an originally assigned processor core has exceeded a usage threshold. |
US08943249B2 |
System on chip improving data traffic and operating method thereof
A system on chip (SoC) includes a first master, a slave, a bus switch transmitting a first command of the master and a first response of the slave, and a first priority controller connected between the first master and the bus switch The first priority controller measures at least one of first bandwidth and first latency based on the first command and the first response and adjusts the priority of the first command according to at least one of the measurement results. |
US08943246B2 |
Character input device, character input interface control method, and program
A character input device of the present invention includes a skill estimation unit that estimates the skill of a user in character input operation, based on the history of key operation by the user. In this character input device, a determination period for determining an input character being selected by a character input interface unit is increased or decreased, according to the skill estimated by the skill estimation unit. The character input interface unit selects the character based on the number of times at which a same key has been depressed, and judges whether or not the determination operation of the character has been performed, based on the determination period. |
US08943240B1 |
Direct memory access and relative addressing
A direct memory access circuit includes a buffer handler configured to store received data within a buffer in a buffer memory coupled to the direct memory access circuit and to generate a descriptor for the buffer. The direct memory access circuit further includes a descriptor handler coupled to the buffer handler. The descriptor handler is configured to determine a descriptor address for the descriptor and to store the descriptor at the determined address within a descriptor memory coupled to the direct memory access circuit. |
US08943238B2 |
Operations using direct memory access
A system includes a serial interface, a peripheral device coupled to the serial interface, non-volatile memory, and a DMA controller including multiple linked channels. The various channels can be configured in different modes to facilitate the DMA controller performing various operations, such as data transfer, with respect to the non-volatile memory or the peripheral device. |
US08943237B1 |
Performance improvement for attached multi-storage devices
A data storage device may comprise a controller, first and second host-addressable logical units and a communication interface. The first logical unit may comprise a first data storage, first endpoints associated with the first data storage and a first bus interface coupled between the first data storage and the first endpoints. The second logical unit may comprise a second data storage and second endpoints. The second endpoints may be associated with the second data storage and may be separate and distinct from the first endpoints. A second bus interface may be coupled between the second data storage and the second endpoints. The communication interface may be coupled to the first and second host-addressable logical units and may be configured according to communicate with the host according to a predetermined communication protocol. |
US08943236B1 |
Packet scheduling using a programmable weighted fair queuing scheduler that employs deficit round robin
The disclosed packet scheduler implements the deficit round robin (DRR) approximation of weighted fair queuing (WFQ), and is capable of achieving complete fairness across several hundred source flows, for example, each of which can be mapped to one of several destination ports. In addition to achieving fairness, the packet scheduler allows the user to map one or more optional strict-priority flows to each port. The packet scheduler keeps these strict-priority flows “outside” of the group of flows for which fairness is enforced. Each destination port can be optionally configured to chop its data packets into sub-packet pieces. The packet scheduler works in two mutually orthogonal dimensions: (1.) it selects destination ports based on a round-robin scheme, or using another method, such as guaranteed rate port scheduling (GRPS), and (2.) it implements optional strict-priority scheduling, and DRR scheduling. |
US08943229B2 |
Peripheral device detection with short-range communication
In general, embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to techniques for configuring a mobile device according to detection of one or more peripheral devices in an environment using short-range wireless communication. In one example, a method includes, receiving, by a computing device that communicates with a peripheral device using short-range wireless communication, a unique identifier of the peripheral device. If the computing device recognizes the unique identifier of the peripheral device, the computing device may determine a configuration operation based on the unique identifier that changes a current operating state of at least one application executing on the computing device to a different operating state. If the computing device does not recognize the unique identifier of the peripheral device, the computing device may send a lookup request to a network resource external to the computing device that requests data specifying the configuration operation for the computing device. |
US08943224B2 |
Chip selection in a symmetric interconnection topology
Techniques for distinguishing between symmetrically-connected integrated circuit devices so that each device may be individually selected are disclosed in reference to various embodiments. In one embodiment, a bi-directional data path provided for ongoing data transfer between a master device and multiple nominally identical slave devices is used to receive a merged set of randomly generated values from the slave devices, and then used to return one or more device-select values that enable assignment of a unique chip-identifier (ID) within each slave device. After chip-IDs have been assigned to the slave devices, the master device may issue one or more chip-select signals corresponding to the unique chip ID assigned to a given slave and thereby enable that slave device, exclusively of the others, to participate in a data transfer operation over the bi-directional data path. |
US08943221B2 |
Methods, systems and devices for pipeline processing
Methods, servers and systems for communicating signaling information in a telecommunications signaling network implement methods that include receiving a first message encoding signaling information from a source component and processing the message using a fixed pipeline having a plurality of modules, each module having at least one procedure for performing a specific set of tasks. Application level routing operations may be performed to identify a suitable destination component. Information contained in the first message may be used to generate a second message encoding signaling information, which is sent to the identified destination component. |
US08943219B2 |
Congestion management and latency prediction in CSMA media
A facility for congestion management and latency prediction is described. In various embodiments, the facility sums a series of fractional transmission delays wherein each fractional transmission delay is measured as a probability of a failed transmission attempt multiplied by the cost of the failed transmission attempt, and provides the sum. |
US08943214B2 |
Communication apparatus
A communication apparatus of one embodiment includes a hardware protocol processing unit, a software protocol processing unit, a hardware protocol process information generating unit to generate protocol process information from the result of the processing by the hardware protocol processing unit, a software protocol process resumption unit to perform control of the software protocol processing unit using the protocol process information generated by the hardware protocol process information generating unit, a software protocol process information generating unit to generate protocol process information from the result of the processing by the software protocol processing unit, and a hardware protocol process resumption unit to perform control of the hardware protocol processing unit using the protocol process information generated by the software protocol process information generating unit. |
US08943212B2 |
System and method for translating application program network service requests into actions and performing those actions through the management and/or control plane responsive to previously defined policies and previous requests by the same or another application program
Application program network service requests are translated into specific actions that are then performed through the management plane and/or control plane. The translations and resulting actions are responsive to previously defined policies for the communication network, and may further reflect processing of previous service requests by the same or another application program. The amount of resources available for use by a given application program may be predefined based on a globally defined network policy. Each service request obtained from an application program may be translated into multiple actions performed using various specific protocols and/or interfaces provided by either the management plane, the control plane, or both the management and control planes. Reports of network activity, status and/or faults for a requesting application program may be tailored to the requesting program's view of the network, and passed directly and exclusively to the requesting program. |
US08943207B2 |
System and method for providing dynamic roll-back reservations in time
A systems, method and computer-readable media are disclosed for providing a dynamic roll-back reservation mask in a compute environment. The method of managing compute resources within a compute environment includes, based on an agreement between a compute resource provider and a customer, creating a roll-back reservation mask for compute resources which slides ahead of current time by a period of time. Within the roll-back reservation mask, the method specifies a subset of consumers and compute resource requests which can access compute resources associated with the roll-back reservation mask and, based on received data, the method dynamically modifies at least one of (1) the period of time the roll-back reservation mask slides ahead of current time and (2) the compute resources associated with the roll-back reservation mask. |
US08943201B2 |
Method for establishing encrypted channel
A technique is disclosed for establishing a secure communication link between a first computer and a second computer over a computer network. Initially, a secure communication mode of communication is enabled at a first computer without a user entering any cryptographic information for establishing the secure communication mode of communication. Then, a secure communication link is established between the first computer and a second computer over a computer network based on the enabled secure communication mode of communication. The secure communication link is a virtual private network communication link over the computer network in which one or more data values that vary according to a pseudo-random sequence are inserted into each data packet. |
US08943197B1 |
Automated content update notification
Features are disclosed for detecting meaningful updates to network accessible content, including but not limited to web pages. The portion or portions of content that are meaningful can be automatically determined based on a previously defined content profile, an analysis of user interactions with the content, algorithms and automated content analysis techniques, some combination thereof, or other techniques. Content can be monitored and determinations can be made regarding whether and to what extent the content has changed. Client devices or users thereof may be notified of detected meaningful content updates. Notifications can include updated portions of the content. The updated content may be displayed to the user on a client device, and visual treatments may be applied to the updated portions to draw the users' attention to the presence and substance of the updates. |
US08943194B2 |
Apparatus, and associated method, for resubscribing communication device to a push notification service
An apparatus, and an associated method, for a communication device having a SIM card, or other removable storage element, that permits hot-swapping of the storage element. Notification of hot-swapping of the removable storage element is detected. Responsive to the detection, provision is made to resubscribe to push service notifications that are disabled upon removal of the removable storage element. |
US08943191B2 |
Detection of an unresponsive application in a high availability system
A method, information processing system, and computer program storage product for determining if an application has become unresponsive. Network traffic at a receiver node is monitored. The receiver node is determined to have generated a window probe response indicating a predetermined window size. A threshold associated with the window size of the receiver node is set in response to the receiver node having generated the window probe response. The window size of the receiver is determined to have been at the predetermined size for at least one of a time period greater than the threshold and a count greater than the threshold. An application associated with the receiver node is classified as unresponsive in response to the window size of the receiver node having been the predetermined size for at least one of a timer period greater than the threshold and a count greater than the threshold. |
US08943189B2 |
Standard based detection and launch of client applications
The claimed subject matter provides a system and/or method that detects, installs and launches applications on client machines. The disclosed system can include a component that receives a request to launch or install a client application. The component detects whether an application is present in a client machine by scrutinizing the received request and extracting an agent string associated with the client application. Based at least in part on the agent string, a server in receipt of the request can distribute a formatted document affiliated with the client application and thereafter initiate the application to execute on the client machine through MIME-type association. |
US08943188B2 |
Automation network comprising network components that produce status messages
The invention relates to an automation network and to automation equipment, network components and field devices for an automation network of this type. The network components transmit messages concerning their status to the automation equipment by means of a communication mechanism that functions according to field communication automation technology. Said automation equipment receives the status messages, evaluates them, monitors the operation of the network and controls said operation using the status messages. As the automation equipment thus contains the complete picture of the process and the network, it can react directly and rapidly to problems of the network. This eliminates the need, for example, for an additional SNMP/OPC server or a network management station. |
US08943187B1 |
Managing electronic keys
Users of a social networking platform may provide electronic keys to other users of the social networking platform. Use of an electronic key may be subject to one or more conditions specified by the issuer of the electronic key. Data may be provided that enables the recipient to use the electronic key in accordance with the one or more conditions on use of the electronic key. |
US08943185B2 |
Networked gaming system having a browser manager
An integrated browser manager and networked gaming system that provides server based dynamic content onto a content display area of one or more gaming machines is disclosed. The system includes: a browser manager, one or more application servers connected to the browser manager by a server-to-server (S2S) server and S2S web service, and one or more gaming machines are connected to the browser manager by a game-to-server (G2S) server and G2S web service. The browser manager includes a user interface application and a core service, wherein the user interface application generates a user interface display on a user control station. Each gaming machine includes a network interface to receive external content from the application server via the browser manager, and a content display area for displaying the external content. |
US08943184B2 |
Abstract representation and provisioning of network services
A network management device connects to a device on the network, receives a trigger for an operation command, supplies to the device a command line interface command for the operation command, wherein a randomly generated string is included at the end of the command line interface command. The network management device receives the output of the operation command from the device, detects the end of the operation command output and parses the output using an XML-based parser. XML based configuration files are used for configuration of different network devices. XML based report files are used to generate different network reports. |
US08943181B2 |
Method and system for reducing connections to a database
A system automatically maintains a plurality of client connections associated with a plurality of clients, the plurality of client connections including active and idle connections. A first server receives a request from a client of the plurality of clients to access a second server of a plurality of second servers communicatively coupled to the first server, the plurality of second servers having varying communication protocols. The first server then identifies a first communication protocol associated with the second server and activating a link between the first server and the second server using the first communication protocol. |
US08943180B1 |
Server-based service configuration system and approach
Network service providers are managed using a server-side configuration approach. According to an example embodiment of the present invention, a host network location includes two or more servers that automatically reconfigure their services in response to controller service settings corresponding to each server. Each server reads configuration information provided at a controller such as a domain name server (DNS), and in response, starts a network-based service corresponding to the configuration information. For instance, each of the two or more servers may be adapted to provide mail service via simple mail transfer protocol (SMTP) and web service via hyper text transfer protocol (HTTP). In this regard, when a DNS associates a first one of the servers with HTTP services and a second one of the servers with SMTP services, each server reconfigures its services accordingly, e.g., at a selected configuration time after startup or in response to an initiating event. |
US08943177B1 |
Modifying a computer program configuration based on variable-bin histograms
A system for modifying a configuration of a computer program includes an encoded data receiver for receiving a plurality of encoded data values from a sample collector on a first computer, the encoded data values generated from operation of the computer program. The system also includes a bin generation value selector, for selecting a bin generation value for each of the bin data values based on a seed value and a histogram reconstructor for reconstructing, for each of the received encoded data values, an associated histogram structure based on the bin generation value associated with each encoded data value. A bin data analyzer generates a result based on the received encoded data values and the reconstructed histogram structure associated with each encoded data value. Finally, a configuration generator generates a configuration setting based on the result, and the configuration is sent to the first computer. |
US08943176B2 |
System and method for publication of distributed data processing service changes
Methods and systems to improve change description information dissemination are described. When an altered version of a distributed data processing service is deployed, information about the altered service is published in a service information registry. The published information includes a link to a natural-language description of the altered service. |
US08943173B1 |
System and method for using a computer as a bridge for data synchronization between a cellular device and a computer network
A method for data bridging and synchronization between a mobile device and a computer network, using a computer connected to the mobile device over a short range communication channel. |
US08943172B2 |
Methods and systems for accessing a computer resource over a network via microphone-captured audio
The disclosure relates to accessing computer resources by sensing audio with a microphone. One claim recites a system comprising: a software module comprising instructions for controlling a wireless device to: i) extract identifying data from microphone-captured audio by applying a hashing algorithm to the microphone-captured audio; ii) obtain device information for a class of devices associated with the wireless device; iii) control communication of the identifying data and the device information; and iv) control a user interface to facilitate access to a third party computer resource based on a service received by said software module in response to communication of the identifying data and the device information, in which the service is configured to facilitate access in response to audio prompting; and a network resource comprising a data registry, the data registry comprising a correlation between identifying data, device information and sponsored links, the network resource configured to provide the service to said software module including providing a sponsored link to the software module, the sponsored link being associated with the identifying data and the device information. Of course, other claims and combinations are provided as well. |
US08943171B2 |
Location-aware web service-based application skinning for web applications
A mechanism for location-aware web service-based application skinning for web applications is disclosed. A method includes identifying, by a server device, a locale of an originator of a request for a web page of a web application hosted by the server device, obtaining skinning files associated with a combination of the web application and the identified locale; and rendering, in response to the request, the web page comprising the skinning files, wherein the skinning files provide a language and style to a user interface (UI) of the web page based on the identified locale that is separate from a development of the web application. |
US08943170B2 |
Content delivery network aggregation with selected content delivery
A content delivery network (CDN) aggregation system is disclosed. A user requesting content from a content provider has his or her DNS request forwarded to a CDN selector. The CDN selector intelligently selects an optimal CDN from amongst a number of partner CDNs to provide the requested content. |
US08943165B2 |
Method for reselecting bearer binding and event report function
The invention provides a method for a Bearer Binding and Event Report Function (BBERF) relocation, which is used in a process of the BBERF relocation after establishing a first Internet Protocol (IP) Connectivity Access Network (IP-CAN) session for User Equipment (UE) and establishing a first gateway control session, a first Gx session, an S9 session and a first subsession of the S9 session which are used to perform policy control to said first IP-CAN session in an Evolved Packet System. In the process of the BBERF relocation, a subsession of the S9 session established before handover of UE is linked to the gateway control session established between the destination BBERF and the visited PCRF and the corresponding Gx session according to the session identity information, thereby achieving deferred linking of policy and charging sessions in roaming scenarios of home routed and local breakout. |
US08943161B2 |
Time synchronization system
A time synchronization system includes: a master including: a main processor to which a first IP address is assigned; and a time synchronization processor to which a second IP address is assigned; a plurality of slaves configured to send a first packet whose destination is the first IP address and a second packet whose destination is the second IP address to the master; and a relay configured to send the first packet to the main processor and to send the second packet to the time synchronization processor. The main processor receives the first packet from the relay and performs a certain process on the first packet. The time synchronization processor receives the second packet from the relay and performs a time synchronization process between the master and said one of the slaves based on the second packet. |
US08943155B2 |
Workflow and in-context E-mail recipient handling
Various technologies and techniques are disclosed that improve the workflow process for resolving data elements, such as email addresses. These technologies and techniques allow the user to perform such tasks in the same context as the activity or message. In addition, user can start and stop the resolution process at any point in the process of composing the activity or email. The activity cannot be finalized, such as an email message being sent, until all of the data elements are resolved. |
US08943151B2 |
Systems and methods for collation, translation, and analysis of passively created digital interaction and relationship data
A computer readable medium containing executable instructions that when executed perform a method of generating relationship data, the method comprising: accessing an interaction database, wherein the interaction database comprises a record of exchanges between two or more users of a digital communication system, and wherein the exchanges occurred on the digital communication system; obtaining one or more characteristics of one or more exchanges of the two or more users, wherein the one or more characteristics are stored in the interaction database and wherein the data is obtained through a direct internet access protocol; and generating relationship data by analyzing the one or more characteristics. |
US08943150B2 |
Systems and methods for customizing mobile applications based upon user associations with one or more entities
Systems and methods for customizing mobile applications are provided. The systems and methods may include storing one or more computers, an identifier associated with (i) a user and (ii) an entity with whom the user is affiliated; receiving a mobile application request; facilitating delivery of a mobile application to a mobile device associated with the user; receiving the identifier; and directing a delivery of customization information for customizing the mobile application of the mobile device, the customization information associated with one or both of the user or the entity with whom the user is affiliated. |
US08943147B2 |
Sending a chat context to a recipient
In an embodiment, a plurality of respective context keywords are stored to a plurality of contexts, wherein each of the plurality of respective context keywords is different. In response to sending of a first plurality of instant messages from an electronic device, a first context is selected at the electronic device from among the plurality of contexts. A first context keyword of the plurality of respective context keywords that matches respective first terms in the first plurality of instant messages is stored in the first context. The first plurality of instant messages are stored to a first chat session in the first context that was selected by the selecting. The first context that comprises the first plurality of instant messages and the first context keyword is sent to a recipient device. |
US08943146B2 |
Method and system and apparatus for mass notification and instructions to computing devices
Systems, methods, and devices for simultaneously distributing mass notifications to multiple users. A mass notification system receives input data and, based on this input data, creates notifications for mass distribution. The notifications are then transmitted to computing devices used by the users who are to be notified. |
US08943143B2 |
Method and system for the conversion and processing of documents in a hybrid network environment
A method of converting a document for a user. The method includes receiving the document in a first format from a first user device through a telecommunications network. The method also includes automatically producing a new version of the document upon receipt of the document. The new version of the document is in a second format, which is selected from a group including a plurality of formats distinct from the first format. |
US08943139B2 |
Virtual private meeting room
A different unique identification is assigned to each of a plurality of users for establishing conference sessions. A different dedicated virtual private session room is allocated to each of the plurality of users for use in multiple conference sessions. The different unique identification is assigned to the different dedicated virtual private session room for each user. Conferencing resources of a network over which conference sessions are provided are dynamically allocated to the conference sessions to obtain expected levels of service for the conference sessions, based on the users logging in to the conference sessions. |
US08943137B2 |
Forming logical group for user based on environmental information from user device
Systems and methods for the forming of user device groups are presented. In one example, a message including location information indicating a geographic location of a first user device is received from the first user device. Values representing logical connection strengths between the first user device and other user devices are calculated using the location information. A first device group is determined for the first user device based on the calculating of the values representing the logical connection strengths, the first device group including a plurality of the other user devices. |
US08943133B2 |
Friend recommendation system for a computer-implemented game
Social network information of a player of a computer-implemented game is accessed to analyze a social interaction of the player with other players from the social network information to recommend other players of the social network of the player to further communicate with. A recommendation of other players is generated to the player based on a frequency of the social interaction. A selection of players from the recommendation is received from the player. A communication message is generated to the selected players. |
US08943129B2 |
Document based conferencing
Various embodiments described herein provide one or more of systems, methods, software, and data structures that allow a document, or other file type, to be used to connect to a network-based conference, such as over the Internet. Some embodiments may further allow a local copy of a document, viewed by each conference participant on their local computing devices, to be used as a conferencing tool by synchronizing document views across each local document copy and edits or other modifications and notations made by each participant. As a result, an actual image of the document of a document-based conference need not be shared. Rather, only the edits or other modifications and notations made by each participant are captured, transmitted, and recreated and displayed within the local document copies of the other participants. |
US08943127B2 |
Techniques for capturing data sets
Techniques, including systems and methods, for capturing data sets include performing a client-side two-phase commit to ensure one or more data consistency conditions. A logical volume may represent a data set that is distributed among a plurality of physical storage devices. One or more client devices are instructed to block at least acknowledgment of write operations. When the one or more client devices have blocked at least acknowledgment of write operations, one or more servers in communication with the physical storage devices are instructed to capture corresponding portions of the data set. When the servers have been instructed to capture corresponding portions of the data set, the client devices are instructed to resume at least acknowledgment of write operations. |
US08943126B1 |
Rate limiter for push notifications in a location-aware service
A method includes receiving, at a server, a dynamic current geographic location of a mobile computing device and, in response, accumulating individual push notifications that are relevant to the dynamic current geographic location of the mobile computing device. The individual push notifications are accumulated in a buffer over a first accumulation time interval. The method further includes sending a limited number of individual push notifications accumulated in the buffer at a controlled rate to the mobile computing device over a computer network. |
US08943121B2 |
Communication across an overlay network
An information communication system of an overlay network includes: a first apparatus requesting the content; a second apparatus storing the content; and a third apparatus including: a first reception unit receiving a retrieval message transmitted from the first apparatus, the retrieval message including content identification information and location information; a storage unit storing the apparatus identification information of the second apparatus and the content identification information of the content stored in the second apparatus; and a transmission unit transmitting the apparatus identification information. The second apparatus includes: a second reception unit receiving the apparatus identification information from the third apparatus; and a control unit allowing the first apparatus to acquire the content stored in the second apparatus if the apparatus identification information received by the second reception unit matches the apparatus identification information of the second apparatus. |
US08943118B2 |
Data processing apparatus and method for reducing the size of a lookup table
A lookup table receives an n-bit input value and returns an output value that would be obtained by performance of a predetermined operation on the input value. The number of entries in the lookup table is less than 2n. An n-bit input data value is received, a modification condition is detected if any of a predetermined number of significant bits of the input data value are logic zeroes, and a shift operation is performed on the input data value if the modification condition is detected, prior to providing the input to the lookup table. If the modification condition is detected, an output value derivation operation is performed on the output value received from the lookup table to modify it prior to returning it to for processing. The derivation operation accounts for the shift operation. This approach can lead to a significant reduction in the lookup table size. |
US08943117B1 |
Method and apparatus for hybrid digital filtering
New hybrid filters are presented based on time and transform domain structures. The hybrid filters have a combined benefit from the advantages obtained by the time and transform domain structures. The overall efficiencies are drawn from combining the pre- and post-processing of the time domain and block based transform domain structures. Further improvements are obtained by interchanging block construction and transforms with linear operations in the pre- and post-processors. The hybrid structures apply to single input, single output, multiple input, and multiple output structures. For the multi input and multi output structures further improvements are obtained by having common processing blocks for the input(s) and common processing blocks for the output(s). They hybrid filters are also efficient in topologies where filter outputs are combined via linear operation(s) generating combined results. The efficiencies of the new hybrid filter may lead to significant fardware, power, silicon area, or somputational savings. |
US08943115B1 |
Bitwise comparator for selecting two smallest numbers from a set of numbers
A group of numbers from which the smallest and second-smallest are to be selected are compared in a cascaded tree. Each comparison stage will select the smallest number from two numbers output by the previous stage, into which four numbers are input. The second-smallest number is one of the other three inputs to the previous stage and, as before, all bits of the second-smallest number will not be known until the smallest number is determined. However, because at each stage of the determination, the next stage is reached because the bit values being examined are the same, those bit values of the second-smallest number (and indeed of the smallest number) are known ahead of the final determination of the smallest number. Accordingly, one can begin to output bits of the second-smallest number (as well as of the smallest number) even before that final determination. |
US08943111B2 |
Managing global cache coherency in a distributed shared caching for clustered file systems
Systems. Methods, and Computer Program Products are provided for managing a global cache coherency in a distributed shared caching for a clustered file systems (CFS). The CFS manages access permissions to an entire space of data segments by using the DSM module. In response to receiving a request to access one of the data segments, a calculation operation is performed for obtaining most recent contents of one of the data segments. The calculation operation performs one of providing the most recent contents via communication with a remote DSM module which obtains the one of the data segments from an associated external cache memory, instructing by the DSM module to read from storage the one of the data segments, and determining that any existing contents of the one of the data segments in the local external cache are the most recent contents. |
US08943109B2 |
Write barrier elision for reference arrays
A computer-implemented process for write barrier elision during program execution receives a request to overwrite a reference, determines whether garbage collection is active and responsive to a determination that garbage collection is active, determines whether a reference object has been scanned. Responsive to a determination that the reference object has not been scanned set a mark bit for the reference object in a modified mark map, the reference object is scanned and a scan bit is set for the reference object in the modified mark map. |
US08943095B2 |
Systems and methods for accessing web pages using natural language
Systems and methods for building an interface that receives and responds to varied natural language expressions. In an embodiment, the system receives a natural language expression in text or audio, and translates it by building at least one data structure which reflects the concepts expressed in the natural language expression. The data structure may comprise a symbol representing each concept. In an embodiment, a parser utilizes the data structure to parse language expressions to single concept symbols that represent the meaning of the expressions. Response actions may also be performed in response to the parsed language expressions. In addition, a parser may receive a single concept symbol, and generate one or many natural language expressions of the meaning of the concept symbol. Furthermore, the system may be configured to understand the local meaning of words and phrases. |
US08943094B2 |
Apparatus, system, and method for natural language processing
Various embodiments are described for searching and retrieving documents based on a natural language input. A computer-implemented natural language processor electronically receives a natural language input phrase from an interface device. The natural language processor attributes a concept to the phrase with the natural language processor. The natural language processor searches a database for a set of documents to identify one or more documents associated with the attributed concept to be included in a response to the natural language input phrase. The natural language processor maintains the concepts during an interactive session with the natural language processor. The natural language processor resolves ambiguous input patterns in the natural language input phrase with the natural language processor. The natural language processor includes a processor, a memory and/or storage component, and an input/output device. |
US08943092B2 |
Digital ink based contextual search
Disclosed herein are representative embodiments of tools and techniques for performing contextual searches using text determined based on digital-ink data. According to one exemplary technique, digital-ink data is received at a computing device and text is determined based on the digital-ink data. Additionally, by an application of the computing device, a contextual search is performed using the text. |
US08943091B2 |
System, method, and computer program product for performing a string search
A system, method, and computer program product are provided for performing a string search. In use, a first string and a second string are identified. Additionally, a string search is performed, utilizing the first string and the second string. |
US08943090B2 |
Content collection search with robust content matching
Systems and approaches for searching a content collection corresponding to query content are provided. In particular, false positive match rates between the query content and the content collection may be reduced with a minimum content region test and/or a minimum features per scale test. For example, by correlating content descriptors of a content piece in the content collection with query descriptors of the query content, the content piece can be determined to match the query content when a particular region of the content piece and/or a particular region of a query descriptor have a proportionate size meeting or exceeding a specified minimum. Alternatively, or in addition, the false positive match rate between query content and a content piece can be reduced by comparing content descriptors and query descriptors of features at a plurality of scales. A content piece can be determined to match the query content according to descriptor proportion quotas for the plurality of scales. |
US08943089B2 |
Search assistant for digital media assets
Techniques and systems for facilitating searching of digital media assets are disclosed. In one embodiment, a user can be assisted in entering search strings for searching a media repository (e.g., online media store) having a plurality of digital media assets that are available, e.g., available for purchase. When the user enters a search character, a list of possible complete search strings corresponding to digital media assets available in the media repository can be obtained over a network and presented to the user. The list of possible search strings can be filtered based on whether a client device supports a media type associated with a word or based on a location of the client device. |
US08943087B2 |
Processing data from diverse databases
Method, system and computer usable medium are provided for processing information items from first and second databases, wherein information items in the first database are related in first way, and information items in the second database are related in a second way. The method comprises providing a semantic relationship between the information items in the first database and the information items in the second database, the semantic relationship providing a single point of entry to the first and second databases. That single point of entry is used to enter a query to the databases, and the semantic relationship is used to navigate between the first and second databases to provide a response to the query. |
US08943085B2 |
Start pointer tracking in NFAs
In a hardware engine, finding rule matches within an input stream by executing a Nondeterministic Finite Automaton (NFA) with active states tracked in parallel cells, a Start Pointer (SP) is captured by the cell beginning a match and passed from cell to cell until the match completes, when it is reported by the cell ending the match. For multiple overlapping matches, different cells may hold different SPs, and a cell representing multiple NFA states may hold multiple SPs. Methods are given to select one SP when multiple SPs collide in the same state. |
US08943082B2 |
Self-assignment of node identifier in a cluster system
In response to a stimulus indicating configuration of a node into a cluster of a plurality of nodes including the node, the node determines whether or not the node has a universally unique identifier (UUID), and if not, the node provides its own persistent self-assigned UUID. The node searches a cluster configuration database for a temporary identifier associated with the node. In response to the node locating the temporary identifier of the node in the cluster configuration database, the node writes its self-assigned UUID into the cluster configuration database and joins the cluster. |
US08943081B2 |
User-powered recommendation system
Recommendation systems are widely used in Internet applications. In current recommendation systems, users only play a passive role and have limited control over the recommendation generation process. As a result, there is often considerable mismatch between the recommendations made by these systems and the actual user interests, which are fine-grained and constantly evolving. With a user-powered distributed recommendation architecture, individual users can flexibly define fine-grained communities of interest in a declarative fashion and obtain recommendations accurately tailored to their interests by aggregating opinions of users in such communities. By combining a progressive sampling technique with data perturbation methods, the recommendation system is both scalable and privacy-preserving. |
US08943077B1 |
Community-modified profile with activity-based authorization
In some embodiments, techniques for modifying a profile may include associating a permissions level with a second user; responsive to detecting activity by the second user, increasing the permissions level; comparing the permissions level to a threshold; determining that the permissions level exceeds the threshold; responsive to determining that the permissions level exceeds the threshold, permitting the second user to modify a first profile data associated with profile associated with a first user; receiving a second profile data from the second user, wherein the second profile data is a result of a modification of the first profile data; associating the second profile data with the profile of the first user; and providing the profile of the first user to a third user, wherein the profile of the first user includes the second profile data. |
US08943071B2 |
Automatic sort and propagation associated with electronic documents
Techniques for automatic sort and propagation of information relating to electronic documents are presented. With regard to an electronic document, such as an incoming message, an enhanced information management component (EIMC) can analyze the document to identify a file folder associated with a subject to which the document relates. Based on interaction with or tagging of the document in a first user interface (UI) and predefined user preferences, the EIMC can propagate information relating to the subject and/or document to a second UI. The EIMC can archive the document in the identified file folder automatically or in response to as little as one UI control manipulation. The EIMC can analyze audio or video content to facilitate tagging and archiving of such content using the first UI and propagation of information relating to such content and/or related subject to a second UI. |
US08943067B1 |
Index server architecture using tiered and sharded phrase posting lists
An information retrieval system uses phrases to index, retrieve, organize and describe documents. Phrases are extracted from the document collection. Documents are the indexed according to their included phrases, using phrase posting lists. The phrase posting lists are stored in an cluster of index servers. The phrase posting lists can be tiered into groups, and sharded into partitions. Phrases in a query are identified based on possible phrasifications. A query schedule based on the phrases is created from the phrases, and then optimized to reduce query processing and communication costs. The execution of the query schedule is managed to further reduce or eliminate query processing operations at various ones of the index servers. |
US08943061B2 |
System for extracting customer feedback from a microblog site
A system for extracting customer feedback from a microblog site includes a retrieval unit coupled to the microblog site to capture microblog updates. A filter unit coupled to the retrieval unit filters the captured microblog updates according to filter criteria that remove non-actionable items from the captured microblog updates. A learning unit coupled to the filter unit prioritizes the filtered microblog updates, and a classification unit coupled to the learning unit classifies the filtered and prioritized microblog updates. An action unit coupled to the classification unit performs appropriate actions based on the classified, filtered and prioritized microblog updates. |
US08943054B2 |
Social media content management system and method
A social media content management system coupled to a social media network includes database files and execution instructions to assemble, manage and transmit social media content. The database files store a feed content file, a social content management file, and management tables including a schedule file and an export content file. Execution instructions include a feed channel content system for receiving and storing feed content items in the feed content file. A selection subsystem is used for selecting and storing export content as social media posts in the social content management file. A scheduling subsystem enables a user to create and store schedules, to select a schedule and to merge the selected schedule with the stored content in the management file to form the export content file. An export system transmits the stored content as social media content posts to the social media network according to the selected schedule. |
US08943044B1 |
Analyzing event invitees
In one implementation, a plurality of identifiers is obtained, where each identifier corresponds to an invitee to an event. Then a user profile for each of the plurality of identifiers is obtained, where each user profile comprises a value for each of a plurality of characteristics. Next, aggregate data representing the values from the user profiles for one or more selected characteristics is generated. Finally, a representation of the aggregate data is outputted. |
US08943042B2 |
Analyzing and representing interpersonal relations
A computer-implemented method for analyzing and representing interpersonal relations includes: receiving, in a computer system, a user input requesting a representation of interpersonal relations regarding a person; executing, based on the user input and in a relational database, a relational-database query that selects relations involving the person, and that selects other persons involved in any of the selected relations, wherein the relational-database query is performed for each of the selected other persons until a maximum number of steps; and providing the representation of interpersonal relations in response to the user input, the representation indicating at least persons selected by the relational-database query. |
US08943040B1 |
Using a table to track whether a dynamic partitioning condition evaluates to true
A query to perform an ordered analytic function contains a clause specifying creation of dynamic partitions, where the clause contains a partitioning condition to specify the dynamic partitions. During processing of the query, dynamic partitions are identified based on evaluating the partitioning condition. To identify the dynamic partitions, a first table is created that contains a first column to track rows of an input table for indicating whether the partitioning condition evaluates to true. The first column of the first table is used to identify the dynamic partitions. |
US08943039B1 |
Centralized web-based software solution for search engine optimization
A system and method for modifying a parameter of a website in order to optimize an organic listing of the website at one or more search engines is described. Several embodiments include methods and systems for generating scored representations based upon different portions of data associated with a website, and then combining the scored representations to achieve a result. The result indicates a feature of the website that may be modified in order to optimize the organic ranking of the website at one or more search engines. |
US08943033B2 |
System and method for avoiding duplication of effort in drafting documents
A system and method is provided for avoiding duplication of effort in drafting documents and, in particular, to a system and method for avoiding duplication of effort in preparing patent related submissions. The method is implemented on a computer infrastructure comprises storing disclosure information related to non-public proprietary innovation and receiving terms associated with an innovation. The method further comprises matching the terms with the stored disclosure information and providing an alert to a user that certain of the terms overlap with the stored disclosure information. |
US08943029B2 |
On-line transaction processing (OLTP) compression and re-compression of database data
A computer is programmed to compress data of a database in response to database modification language (DML) statements generated by on-line transaction processing (OLTP) systems. In several embodiments, data that is initially added to a database block is left uncompressed until a predetermined condition is satisfied, which happens infrequently (relative to OLTP transactions on the block). When satisfied, the computer automatically compresses all uncompressed data in the block, which increases the amount of unused space in the block. New data is thereafter added uncompressed to the partially compressed block, until satisfaction of a predetermined condition whereby the partially compressed block is again compressed, i.e. re-compressed. Adding of new data to a partially compressed block and its compression are repeated unless another predetermined condition is met, in response to which the block is not further re-compressed, thereby to recognize a limit on the benefit from compression. |
US08943028B2 |
Database compression analyzer
Apparatus, systems, and methods may operate to receive requests to execute a plurality of compression and/or decompression mechanisms on one or more database objects; to execute each of the compression and/or decompression mechanisms, on a sampled basis, on the database objects; to determine comparative performance characteristics associated with each of the compression and/or decompression mechanisms; and to record at least some of the performance characteristics and/or derivative characteristics derived from the performance characteristics in a performance summary table. The table may be published to a storage medium or a display screen. Other apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed. |
US08943026B2 |
Visual representation of a local backup
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for storing data. In one aspect, a method includes receiving a user input to present a visual representation of a first prior state of a file system; generating the first visual representation of a first prior state of the file system at a first time in the past according to a first virtual file system corresponding to that first time; presenting the first visual representation, where the first virtual file system is a reduced representation of the file system at that first time; receiving a user input to present a second visual representation of a second prior state of the file system at a second time in the past according to a second virtual file system corresponding to that second time; and presenting the second visual representation. |
US08943025B2 |
Data replication among storage systems
A first storage system stores information relating to the updating of data stored in that system as a journal. More specifically, the journal is composed of a copy of data that was used for updating and update information such as a write command used during updating. Furthermore, the second storage system acquires the journal via a communication line between the first storage system and the second storage system. The second storage system holds a duplicate of the data held by the first storage system and updates the data corresponding to the data of the first storage system in the data update order of the first storage system by using the journal. |
US08943024B1 |
System and method for data de-duplication
A method and system can be used to read and obtain data from a variety of media, regardless of the application used to generate the backup media. The component parts of a file may be read from a medium, including content and metadata pertaining to a file. These pieces of content and metadata may then be stored and associated. To avoid duplication of data, pieces of content and metadata may be compared to previously stored content and metadata. Furthermore, using these same methods and systems the content and metadata of a file may be associated with a location where the file resided. A database which stores these components and allows linking between the various stored components may be particularly useful in implementing embodiments of these methods and systems. |
US08943013B2 |
Real-time equipment behavior selection
At creation, a state machine of an industrial control configuration can be hard-coded with a number of states in a hierarchical manner. Once implemented into the configuration, it can be desirable for the states, interpretations of the states, and the like to be modified in accordance with particular desires and processes. Therefore, a user can select a change to a hierarchical rule set of the state machine while the state machine is part of the configuration and the change can be implemented. |
US08943010B2 |
Adaptive information technology solution design and deployment
An automated incremental solution deployment strategy created for an enterprise organization based upon evaluation of a set of possible information technology solution alternatives within an automated architectural framework is received. An information technology solution is incrementally deployed and incrementally selected from the set of possible information technology solution alternatives during the incremental deployment using the automated incremental solution deployment strategy. |
US08943004B2 |
Tools and methods for determining relationship values
Systems, apparatus, and methods for correlating two items of interest, based on a plurality of data items and characteristics. The data items may include objective and quantitative data, as well as subjective and qualitative data. In one implementation, the relationship of an individual to a metric is determined. The system, apparatus, and methods may store characteristics describing individuals generally, along with metrics relevant to an organization; receive a plurality of data items; extract information associated with the individual from the data items; determine a number of relationships between the data items, individuals, metric, and characteristics; and use the relationships to determine an overall relationship between the individual and the metric, based on the data and characteristics. In addition, related groups of characteristics may be identified. Similarly, the relationships between any individual, metric, sub-metric, group of characteristics, data item, data source, characteristic, or groups thereof may also be determined. |
US08943002B2 |
Analytics driven engagement
Various embodiments relate to an engagement server and a related method of initiating an engagement between an agent device and a user device based on formed and modified engagement rules. In one embodiment, the engagement server can receive one or more third-party analytic reports and use them to form engagement rules that determine when the engagement server initiates an engagement between the agent device and user device. In some embodiments, the engagement server can also receive user interaction data from the user device to modify engagement rules to fit a particular user. In some embodiments, the engagement server can use the third-party analytic reports and/or user interaction data from a plurality of users to form a statistical model. The engagement server may then use the statistical model to form and/or modify the engagement rules. |
US08942989B2 |
Speech coding of principal-component channels for deleting redundant inter-channel parameters
Disclosed is an audio encoding device which removes unnecessary inter-channel parameters from the subject to be encoded, improving the encoding efficiency thereby. In this audio encoding device, a principal component analysis unit (301) converts an inputted left signal {Lsb(f)} and an inputted right signal {Rsb(f)} into a principal component signal {PCsb(f)} and an ambient signal {Asb(f)} and calculates for each sub-band, a rotation angle which indicates the degree of conversion; a monophonic encoding unit (303) encodes the principal component signal {Pcsb(f)}; a rotation angle encoding unit (302) encodes the angle of rotation {θb}; a local monophonic decoding unit (603) creates a decoded principal component signal; and a redundant parameter elimination unit (604) identifies the redundant parameters by analyzing the encoding quality of the decoded principal component signal and eliminates the redundant parameters from the signal to be encoded. |
US08942988B2 |
Efficient temporal envelope coding approach by prediction between low band signal and high band signal
This invention provides a more efficient way to quantize temporal envelope shaping of high band signal by benefiting from energy relationship between low band signal and high band signal; if low band signal is well coded or it is coded with time domain codec such as CELP, temporal envelope shaping information of low band signal can be used to predict temporal envelope shaping of high band signal; the temporal envelope shaping prediction can bring significant saving of bits to precisely quantize temporal envelope shaping of high band signal. This prediction approach can be combined with other specific approach to further increase the efficiency and save mores bits. |
US08942987B1 |
Identifying qualified audio of a plurality of audio streams for display in a user interface
A clear picture of who is speaking in a setting where there are multiple input sources (e.g., a conference room with multiple microphones) can be obtained by comparing input channels against each other. The data from each channel can not only be compared, but can also be organized into portions which logically correspond to statements by a user. These statements, along with information regarding who is speaking, can be presented in a user friendly format via an interactive timeline which can be updated in real time as new audio input data is received. |
US08942986B2 |
Determining user intent based on ontologies of domains
Methods, systems, and computer readable storage medium related to operating an intelligent digital assistant are disclosed. A plurality of predefined domains each representing a respective area of service offered by an intelligent automated assistant are stored. A text string derived from a user request is obtained, the text string including at least one or more words derived from a speech input received from a user. From the plurality of predefined domains, a relevant domain for the user request is identified based at least on respective degrees of match between the text string derived from the user request and a respective plurality of words associated with each predefined domain. A task is executed in accordance with steps specified in a task flow associated with the relevant domain, and in accordance with one or more task parameters derived from the user request. |
US08942985B2 |
Centralized method and system for clarifying voice commands
A method and system for facilitating centralized interaction with a user includes providing a recognized voice command to a plurality of application modules. A plurality of interpretations of the voice command are generated by at least one of the plurality of application modules. A centralized interface module visually renders the plurality of interpretations of the voice command on a centralized display. An indication of selection of an interpretation is received from the user. |
US08942983B2 |
Method of speech synthesis
The present invention relates to a method of text-based speech synthesis, wherein at least one portion of a text is specified; the intonation of each portion is determined; target speech sounds are associated with each portion; physical parameters of the target speech sounds are determined; speech sounds most similar in terms of the physical parameters to the target speech sounds are found in a speech database; and speech is synthesized as a sequence of the found speech sounds. The physical parameters of said target speech sounds are determined in accordance with the determined intonation. The present method, when used in a speech synthesizer, allows improved quality of synthesized speech due to precise reproduction of intonation. |
US08942982B2 |
Semiconductor integrated circuit device and electronic instrument
A semiconductor integrated circuit device including: a storage section which temporarily stores a command and text data input from the outside; a speech synthesis section which synthesizes a speech signal corresponding to the text data based on the command and the text data stored in the storage section, and outputs the synthesized speech signal to the outside; and a control section which controls a timing at which the command and the text data stored in the storage section are transferred to the speech synthesis section based on a speech synthesis start control signal. The control section controls an output of a speech output start notification signal which notifies in advance a start of outputting the synthesized speech signal to the outside based on occurrence of a speech synthesis start event, and then controls a start of outputting the synthesized speech signal to the outside at a given timing. |
US08942978B2 |
Parameter learning in a hidden trajectory model
Parameters for distributions of a hidden trajectory model including means and variances are estimated using an acoustic likelihood function for observation vectors as an objection function for optimization. The estimation includes only acoustic data and not any intermediate estimate on hidden dynamic variables. Gradient ascent methods can be developed for optimizing the acoustic likelihood function. |
US08942977B2 |
System and method for speech recognition using pitch-synchronous spectral parameters
The present invention defines a pitch-synchronous parametrical representation of speech signals as the basis of speech recognition, and discloses methods of generating the said pitch-synchronous parametrical representation from speech signals. The speech signal is first going through a pitch-marks picking program to identify the pitch periods. The speech signal is then segmented into pitch-synchronous frames. An ends-matching program equalizes the values at the two ends of the waveform in each frame. Using Fourier analysis, the speech signal in each frame is converted into a pitch-synchronous amplitude spectrum. Using Laguerre functions, the said amplitude spectrum is converted into a unit vector, referred to as the timbre vector. By using a database of correlated phonemes and timbre vectors, the most likely phoneme sequence of an input speech signal can be decoded in the acoustic stage of a speech recognition system. |
US08942974B1 |
Method and system for determining device settings at device initialization
A device searches for an available network. The device automatically sends a request message to an identified available network. After the device receives a response message from the identified available network, the device selects a language and/or other device setting based on contents of the response message. |
US08942973B2 |
Content page URL translation
The present technology may translate a content of a web page such as content locator (e.g., a uniform resource locator (URL)) from a source language to a target language. The content locator may be associated with a content page. The translation may involve dividing the content locator into segment tokens in a first language, followed by translating, transliterating or not changing a segment token. The processed tokens are then reassembled in a second language. The translation may be provided by a translation module through a content page provided by a network browser. |
US08942968B2 |
Analysis support computer product, apparatus, and method
A computer-readable, non-transitory medium stores a program that causes a computer to execute a process including acquiring a unique coefficient that is unique to a device in a circuit under test and is included in a function expressing fluctuation of leak current of the device; detecting as a group and based on the unique coefficient, devices having an identical or similar characteristic; converting first random variables into a single second random variable, the first random variables expressing fluctuation of leak current unique to each of the detected devices; yielding a function that expresses fluctuation of leak current of the detected devices, using the second random variable; and outputting the yielded function. |
US08942967B2 |
Method for real-time reservoir model updating from dynamic data while keeping the coherence thereof with static observations
The invention is a method for real-time updating of a geological model using dynamic data while maintaining the coherence thereof with static observations. An initial set of reservoir property maps, obtained from stochastic simulations of a random function, are available. Parameters providing new realizations of the random function when applied to the set are selected. New maps are created using initial values of the parameters. As soon as new dynamic data are available, the parameters are modified to reduce a difference between the simulated data for perturbed models and the measured data. Finally, the reservoir is developed using a modified development scheme to account for the deformed maps. |
US08942963B1 |
Directed design updates in engineering methods for systems
A system or method includes a simulated model that has a plurality of simulated components, the plurality of components are arranged in a component hierarchical graph such that the combination of the simulated components forms the simulated model. The system includes an inference engine configured to generate one or more redesign recommendations for a component in the simulated model based on redesign recommendation rules. The system may include a display generator for displaying the redesign recommendations to a first user. |
US08942960B2 |
Scenario analyzer plug-in framework
A system can include a framework for scenario-based assessment of a physical environment; and an integrator that includes an analyzer component for identifying an analyzer as one of a plurality of identifiable analyzers, a scenario component for framework and analyzer interactions for a scenario, and a results component for framework and analyzer interactions with respect to analyzer results for the scenario. Various other apparatuses, systems, methods, etc., are also disclosed. |
US08942959B2 |
Method for predicting outputs of photovoltaic devices based on two-dimensional fourier analysis and seasonal auto-regression
An output of a photovoltaic (PV) device is predicted by applying Fourier analysis to historical data to obtain frequencies and a mean of the frequencies in the data. Regression analysis is applied to the data to obtain a regression coefficient. Then, the prediction is a sum of the mean at the time step and a deviation from the mean at a previous time step, wherein the means are represented and approximated by selected frequencies, and the deviation for the previous time step is weighted by the regression coefficient. |
US08942956B1 |
Method and apparatus for building and presenting network designs
A method and apparatus is provided for presenting a design of a fiber-optic network. In one aspect, a server receives from a client device a request for a diagram of the design. The server accesses a data-structure representing the design, generates a representation of a cable run, and transmits the representation to the client device for display. In another aspect, the server transmits to the client device an indication that the cable run is illegal and receives from the client device an indication of a user-specified cable run. Subsequently, the server modifies the data structure to replace the illegal cable run with the user-specified cable run. |
US08942955B2 |
Operationalizing a power usage monitoring system
A monitoring system capable of being operationalized. Power consumption in electrical devices is monitored by the use of new and innovative consumption power monitoring device in accordance with the present invention. Power consumption information is collected by an intelligent power hub that is communicatively coupled to a remote server that presents overall power usage displays. A method of operationalizing a power usage monitoring system comprises powering up an energy pump device when the energy pump device is plugged into a first power socket, setting the energy pump device automatically to a SET mode to acquire new monitoring devices, and discovering the presence of a power consumption monitoring device. |
US08942950B2 |
Motion detection device, electronic device, motion detection method, and program storage medium
A motion detection device includes: an acceleration detection unit, a separating unit, a gravity axis determination unit, and a motion detection unit. The acceleration detection unit detects acceleration components of each axis of a three-dimensional rectangular coordinate system of acceleration acting on the acceleration detection unit and outputs sets of acceleration component data. The separating unit separates the outputted sets of acceleration component data into stationary components and motion components. The gravity axis determination unit determines an axis whose separated stationary component is the largest to be a gravity axis. The motion detection unit detects, if an axis corresponding to a largest motion component showing a largest value of the separated motion components is an axis other than the determined gravity axis, a motion axis of the acceleration detection unit on the basis of the largest motion component. |
US08942947B1 |
Flow testing systems for fluid networks
An apparatus, system, method and kit for testing fluid flow and pressure is provided. The apparatus, system, method and kit include or include the use of a flow unit which is configured to measure flow rate and/or flow velocity when interfaced with a flow valve or hydrant and a pressure unit configured to measure at least residual pressure when interfaced with a test valve or hydrant. At least one of the units is configured to wirelessly send data transmissions to the other unit which is configured to receive such transmissions. |
US08942944B2 |
System and method for dynamically measuring oxygen levels
An oxygen sensing system including an oxygen sensor, a microprocessor and one or more additional sensors for sensing parameters associated with the environment or with the oxygen sensor, accounts for one or more sensed conditions when calculating oxygen levels. The one or more sensors may sense conditions associated with environmental effects or effects of use that may cause the oxygen sensor to degrade over usage or over time. A baseline amplification and measurement circuit coupled to the oxygen sensor may enable the sensor to operate less frequently or for shorter periods of time, thereby increasing the life span, calibration hold time of the sensor, and reducing power requirements. |
US08942936B2 |
Identifying a current drawn by a load
A system includes, in at least one aspect, a first circuit configured to be coupled to a load, and a second circuit configured to perform operations including receiving a digital voltage signal representing a voltage supplied to a first circuit, identifying a first time stamp associated with a voltage value representing an extrema in the digital voltage signal, receiving a digital current signal representing a current drawn by the load in response to the supplied voltage, identifying a second time stamp associated with the digital current signal, the second time stamp being within a threshold time of the first time stamp, and identifying a current value associated with the second time stamp as the current drawn by the load. |
US08942934B2 |
Energy monitoring device and control method therefor, and energy monitoring program
A processing machine processes a work and repeats processes on the work, thereby consuming energy. Within the consumed energy, room for improvement is computed by an energy monitoring device and is referred to as an amount of energy that can be improved. An energy monitoring device includes a power data acquirer that acquires a time-series power data measured by a power meter, a cycle detector that detects a single-cycle power data from the power data acquired by the acquirer, a divider that divides the single-cycle power data detected by the detector into an added-value creating portion and an unproductive portion, and a computing unit that computes an amount of energy consumed in the unproductive portion divided by the divider and defines it as the amount of energy to be improved. |
US08942931B2 |
System and method for determining electrical properties using magnetic resonance imaging
A system and method for determining electrical properties using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) are provided. One method includes determining a magnitude of an MRI B1+ field applied to an object, determining a phase of the MRI B1+ field applied to the object and combining the determined magnitude and phase to determine a complex B1+ field estimate. The method further includes estimating one or more electrical properties of the object using the complex B1+ field estimate by directly solving at least one difference equation. |
US08942929B2 |
Method for field-measuring fluid flow meters
A method for taking field measurements of a cone type fluid flow meter including a meter body and a cone-type fluid displacement member to determine when to calibrate or replace the fluid flow meter. The method includes taking measurements of dimensions of the fluid displacement member and the meter body, evaluating the dimension measurements and ascertaining whether the dimension measurements are within designated dimension limits. The present method saves significant time and costs by taking measurements in the field determining whether to calibrate or replace the fluid flow meter. |
US08942928B2 |
Ultrasonic method of monitoring particle size distribution of a medium
Methods and are provided for determining, monitoring or detecting particle size distribution of a medium. An example method includes comparing a measured ultrasound attenuation spectrum of the medium with a calculated attenuation spectrum, where the calculated attenuation spectrum is obtained by accounting for the scattering of ultrasound waves into the receiver. The methods of the present invention can be used to determine particle size distribution in a dense suspension of particles in the intermediate wavelength regime. In other aspects, methods of the present invention may also be used to monitor changes in particle size distribution, infer the shape of particles, provide feedback to a process involving a change in particle size, and determine the completion of a dissolution process. |
US08942915B2 |
Method for identifying an airplane in connection with parking of the airplane at a stand
Method for identifying an airplane in connection to parking of the airplane at a gate or a stand, for possible connection of a passenger bridge (1) or a loading bridge to a door of an airplane, where the airplane is positioned and stopped at a predetermined position using a touchless measurement of the distance between the airplane and a fixed point, where the distance is indicated on a display (6) mounted in front of the pilot of the airplane on for instance an airport building (7), which display (6) shows the position of the airplane (5) in relation to a stop point for the airplane and shows the current airplane type, where the distance measurement and display are caused to be activated by a computer system (20) belonging to the airport or manually, and wherein an antenna (16) is caused to receive information (17) transmitted by an airplane. |
US08942914B2 |
Methods and systems for managing air traffic
Methods and system are provided for scheduling and negotiating air traffic within an airspace surrounding an airport and scheduled to land at the airport. An air traffic control (ATC) system is used to monitor the altitudes, speeds and lateral routes of aircraft. The ATC system generates a scheduled time-of-arrival (STA) at one or more meter fix points associated with the airport, the STA is stored, and data is received or inferred with the ATC system for at least a first of the aircraft, including a minimum fuel-cost speed and predicted trajectory parameters of the first aircraft based on current values of its existing trajectory parameters. Auxiliary data, including earliest and latest estimated time-of-arrival (ETAmin) and (ETAmax) at the meter fix point, STA being within/ outside ETAmin, ETAmax are generated, instructions are transmitted to the first aircraft, and the STA is updated for each aircraft stored in a queue. |
US08942911B2 |
System and method for detecting a stuck vehicle accelerator and remedial control
A control system for a vehicle includes an error detection module and a remedial control module. The error detection module detects whether an accelerator of the vehicle is stuck is based on vehicle speed, a position of the accelerator, and one of a pressure applied to a brake of the vehicle and a status of a parking brake of the vehicle. The remedial control module, when the accelerator is stuck, at least one of resets the position of the accelerator and decreases torque output of a powertrain system. |
US08942896B2 |
Seed meter control system
A seed meter control system is provided that allows for controlling seed meters of a row crop planter in a manner that reduces frequency of skip occurrences in which no seeds are delivered during a delivery event and double occurrences in which more than one seed is delivered during a delivery event. A target seeding session performance may be compared with an observed seeding session performance value and a delivery anomaly value to determine whether to make a corrective action by controlling at least one of the seed meters. |
US08942894B2 |
Seeding machine for planting multiple seed varieties and prescription for multiple varieties seeding machine
A seeding machine, such as a row crop planter, is described which is adapted to switch between two or more seed varieties as the machine traverses a field. The control system uses a programmed quantity of seed representing a number of seeds in the seed meter that need to be substantially consumed once the flow of a first seed variety is stopped before introducing a second seed variety to minimize seed mixing. The seed quantity can be determined by a calibration process or published from the manufacturer or third parties. The seed quantity can also be part of a seeding prescription that includes assignment of where each seed variety is to be planted in a field. The seed quantity and the distance traveled to empty the meter can be used to optimize the planting operation including the machine direction which can also be part of the prescription. |
US08942890B2 |
Torque detecting device and electric power steering system
A torque detecting device and an electric power steering system are provided. A torque sensor includes a first rotor that is fixed to an input shaft and that has a predetermined shaft angle multiplier, and a second rotor that is fixed to an output shaft and that has a shaft angle multiplier different from that of the first rotor. In first to fourth output coils arranged on a stator that is arranged around outer peripheries of the first and second rotors, electric signals having different phases are generated on the basis of a variation of a gap between the stator and the first and second rotors. A twist angle of a torsion bar is calculated on the basis of the electric signals, and a torque that acts between the input shaft and the output shaft is calculated on the basis of the twist angle. |
US08942888B2 |
Extensible scheme for operating vehicle head unit as extended interface for mobile device
In an example, a processing device sends, to a remote network device, a request for an application of a mobile device to utilize a resource of a vehicle head unit, the request including a first profile of the vehicle head unit and a second profile of the mobile device. Responsive to sending the request, the processing device receives an instruction from the remote network device, the instruction to be executed by embedded software of the vehicle head unit so as to enable the application to utilize a resource of the vehicle head unit. |
US08942886B2 |
System for detecting an impact on an aircraft engine impeller wheel
A method and a system for detecting an impact on an impeller wheel of an aircraft engine. A device acquires a revolutions per minute of the engine and a series of deflection signals representative of the deflections on the blades of the impeller wheel at the revolutions per minute. A device constructs signals for detecting impact on the impeller wheel by correlating each of the deflection signals with a predetermined signature of a shock on a blade at the revolutions per minute. |
US08942885B2 |
Vehicle information transmission apparatus
Disclosed herein is a vehicle information transmission apparatus. The vehicle information transmission apparatus includes a storage unit for storing pieces of collected vehicle information, transmission grades of the pieces of vehicle information, and grades of user terminals. A control unit performs control such that relevant collected vehicle information is transmitted to a user terminal having a grade corresponding to a transmission grade of the collected vehicle information. A transmission unit transmits the vehicle information to the user terminal in compliance with a control command output from the control unit. |
US08942880B2 |
Method and device for operating a driver assistance system of a vehicle
A method for operating a driver assistance system of a vehicle is described, together with a corresponding device, a corresponding vehicle, and a corresponding computer program. The driver assistance system is configured to autonomously safely park the vehicle when activated. While the vehicle is traveling, an activation intent for the driver assistance system is detected, whereupon the driver assistance system is activated and the vehicle is autonomously safely parked with the aid of the activated driver assistance system. |
US08942877B2 |
Hybrid vehicle and method for controlling the same
A motor generator and a power converter are driven by an engine, to supply electric power to a power storage device. ECU causes the engine to start if SOC of the power storage device falls below a first threshold value, and causes the engine to stop if SOC exceeds a second threshold value which is larger than the first threshold value. In the case where a running range has been selected when the vehicle stops, ECU causes the engine to stop if SOC exceeds a third threshold value which is larger than the first threshold value and smaller than the second threshold value. In the case where a non-running range has been selected, ECU causes the engine to stop if SOC exceeds the second threshold value. |
US08942876B2 |
Method and system for controlling a user requested shift in a hybrid vehicle
A hybrid vehicle has an engine, an electric machine connected to the engine by an upstream clutch, a transmission gearbox connected to the electric machine by a downstream clutch, and a controller. The controller is configured to, in response to a user commanded shift of the transmission, control the electric machine speed to a designated speed based on gearbox output speed and the transmission gear ratio after the shift, thereby synchronizing speeds across the gearbox for the shift. A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle provides, in response to a user commanded shift of an automatic transmission gearbox, controlling an electric machine speed to a target speed based on the transmission gear ratio after the shift where the target speed is synchronized with the transmission gearbox output speed. |
US08942874B2 |
Self initiated prone progressive crawler
A self initiated prone progressive crawler facilitates crawling in infants by sensing the infant's intent and assisting movement. The device is designed as a mobility aid to assist an infant in prone locomotion. The infant can be placed in a prone position on a platform and secured with hook and loop straps. The arms and legs are unconstrained and are able to reach the floor comfortably. The self initiated prone progressive crawler is a motorized wheeled platform which has three points of contact with the ground. One point is an industrial trackball, mounted upside down to provide positional and positional derivative data to a controller. It is located roughly under the chest of the infant and is highly sensitive to movement. The other points of contact are two DC torque motors which are controlled by the controller. In addition to the positional and positional derivative data provided to the controller, the controller also receives data from four equally spaced load cells on a force plate and tn-axial accelerometer gyros attached to the upper and lower extremities of the child. The load cells provide force information between the infant and the device to allow weight shifts to be assessed and used as a control parameter. The accelerometer gyros generate data that provides patterns that can be correlated with crawling movements. |
US08942873B2 |
Safety control system and method for hydrogen charging of fuel-cell vehicle
Disclosed is charging safety control system for a fuel-cell vehicle. In particular, a charging switch is provided in a fuel-cell vehicle to be manipulated in hydrogen charging as well as a vehicle speed detector for detecting a current vehicle speed. A controller within the vehicle is configured to receiving a signal corresponding to on/off-manipulation of the charging switch and a detected current vehicle speed and control the ignition of the vehicle based thereon. Particularly, the controller is configured to switch off the ignition of the vehicle upon receiving the on-manipulation signal of the charging switch, and upon determining that the vehicle is stopped based on the current vehicle speed. |
US08942871B2 |
Moving body with fuel cells mounted thereon
Water contained in exhaust gas discharged from a fuel cell stack is separated by a gas-liquid separator and is accumulated in a recovery tank. The procedure of the invention sets a release amount of water and selects one or multiple positions for water release, based on the driving conditions including the vehicle speed and the acceleration, the turning state, activation or non-activation of skid reduction control, the distance from any object detected by clearance sonars, a distance from a subsequent vehicle measured by an extremely high frequency radar, and the presence of raindrops detected by a raindrop detection sensor, and releases the water accumulated in the recovery tank from water outlets at the selected one or multiple positions among water outlets at multiple different locations. This arrangement ensures adequate release of the water produced by the fuel cell stack to the atmosphere. |
US08942870B2 |
Control system for a electrical vehicle
A control system for controlling the functionality of an electrically powered vehicle is described. The control system comprises a plurality of control modules in electronic communication with each of the control modules being programmed to implement a specific control function for the vehicle. The control modules comprise a first memory for storing data for implementing the control function, and the system further comprises at least one second memory for storing data for implementing each control function of the separate modules, wherein the data can be recorded to the second memory from the control modules. |
US08942865B2 |
Methods and systems for aircraft data communications over heterogeneous connectivity
Methods and systems for communicating data between an aircraft and an off-board network are provided. The method includes pre-loading data for the aircraft onto a secure power unit, communicatively coupling the aircraft to the secure power unit, validating the aircraft at the secure power unit based on air traffic management information, absolute (GMT) time, and aircraft location data, and transferring data between the aircraft and the secure power unit based on the validation. |
US08942861B2 |
Road surface condition estimation method, and road surface condition estimation apparatus
The invention provides a method and apparatus capable of accurately estimating a road surface condition under a traveling vehicle using unsprung acceleration and wheel speed data. The unsprung fore-aft acceleration (Gx) is detected by an acceleration sensor (11) attached to a knuckle (31) which is an unsprung component of a vehicle. At the same time, the wheel speed (Vw) is detected and the variation (ΔVw) in wheel speed is calculated. Then the fluctuation range (σ(ΔVw)) of the variation in wheel speed and the fluctuation range (σ(Gx)) of the unsprung fore-aft acceleration are calculated. And whether the road surface is a rough road surface with some bumpiness or a flat (smooth) road surface is estimated from a relationship between the fluctuation range (σ(ΔVw)) of the variation in wheel speed and the fluctuation range (σ(Gx)) of the unsprung fore-aft acceleration. |
US08942859B2 |
Guidance and security system for complex transport systems
The present invention provides a guidance and security system for transport means, in particular complex mass transport systems, in which automatic passenger counting, security monitoring, for example, against fire, crime and terrorism, control of the use of individual elements of the transport system, such as vehicles, trains etc., automatic monitoring of the track and passenger information are connected with each other by an electronic “backbone”. The system comprises at least one guidance means for at least one transport means an/or for people, several recording units and a central unit. The central unit is connected to the recording units and the guidance means. The recording units are for determining the number of people located at a particular time and in a particular spatial area such that the central unit can control the guidance means depending thereon, in order that the appropriate number of vehicles is automatically provided with the necessary frequency and to guide passengers to the vehicle entrances. |
US08942858B2 |
Controlling device and method
A controlling device comprises: a temperature ramp-up time estimating portion for estimating a required temperature ramp-up time for the controlled quantity in each individual control loop to reach a set point when the operating quantity output upper limit value of each individual control loop has been sent to a specified output upper limit value; a required output estimating portion for estimating, for each individual control loop, a required operating quantity output for the controlled quantity to reach the set point within the temperature ramp-up time; an output upper limit value setting portion for setting, temporarily, the operating quantity output as the operating quantity output upper limit value of the individual control loop; and a controlling portion that is provided for each individual control loop. |
US08942857B2 |
Method and system for thermal load management in a portable computing device
Methods and systems for leveraging temperature sensors in a portable computing device (“PCD”) are disclosed. The sensors may be placed within the PCD near known thermal energy producing components such as a central processing unit (“CPU”) core, graphical processing unit (“GPU”) core, power management integrated circuit (“PMIC”), power amplifier, etc. The signals generated by the sensors may be monitored and used to trigger drivers running on the processing units. The drivers are operable to cause the reallocation of processing loads associated with a given component's generation of thermal energy, as measured by the sensors. In some embodiments, the processing load reallocation is mapped according to parameters associated with pre-identified thermal load scenarios. In other embodiments, the reallocation occurs in real time, or near real time, according to thermal management solutions generated by a thermal management algorithm that may consider CPU and/or GPU performance specifications along with monitored sensor data. |
US08942850B2 |
Method and system for assisting in the handling of robotized machines in a congested environment
A method for handling of a first robotized mobile machine moving in a congested working environment under the control of a second robotized mobile machine, providing the operator, in real time, with a relevant view of the working scene, even if an object intrudes into the field of view of the camera and thereby obscures the operator's view. This method is based on use of properties of a physics engine of the constraint resolution type. For each object in the scene, the physics engine has a physical representation of said object in the form of a mesh. The engine calculates a wrench on the basis of the respective positions and velocities of two objects. In case of a collision between the manipulator and a fixed object in the scene, the engine determines the wrench to be applied to the manipulator in order to make it avoid the object. |
US08942848B2 |
Humanoid robot that can dynamically walk with limited available footholds in the presence of disturbances
A control system for a bipedal humanoid robot that utilizes certain fundamental characteristics of bipedal motion to provide a robust and relatively simple balancing and walking mechanism. The system primarily utilizes the concept of “capturability,” which is defined as the ability of the robot to come to a stop without falling by taking N or fewer steps. This ability is considered crucial to legged locomotion and is a useful, yet not overly restrictive criterion for stability. In the preferred embodiment, the bipedal robot is maintained in a 1-step capturable state. This means that future step-locating and driving decisions are made so that the robot may always be brought to a balanced halt with the taking of one step. Other embodiments maintain the bipedal robot in an N-step capturable state, in which the robot may always be brought to a balanced halt by taking N or fewer steps. |
US08942847B2 |
Mobile apparatus and robot, and control system thereof
Provided is a system and the like capable of appropriately searching a desired trajectory for a controlled subject in a time-space coordinate system in view of a state of the controlled subject. An initial positional relationship (k=1) between a first reference point q1(k) and a second reference point q2(k) in the time-space coordinate system is set to satisfy a first condition defined according to a motion performance of an actuator 2. When a previous trajectory candidate tr(k−1) is determined to have a contact with an object trajectory tro, a current positional relationship (k>1) between the first reference point q1(k) and the second reference point q2(k) in the time-space coordinate system is set to satisfy a second condition that a current time interval between the first reference point q1(k) and the second reference point q2(k) is longer than a previous time interval or the like. |
US08942844B2 |
Article storage facility and article storage method
An article storage facility includes a transport device for transporting the transporting containers to the plurality of storage units, a controller, and a supply state detecting device for detecting a supply state of the inactive gas to the plurality of storage units. The controller makes a determination based on detected information from the supply state detecting device as to whether the inactive gas is properly supplied, and manages the plurality of storage units by distinguishing the disallowed storage units for which it is determined that the inactive gas is not properly supplied from the allowed storage units that are the storage units that are not the disallowed storage units. The controller performs a retreating transport operation in which a transporting container, that is stored in the storage unit that is changed from the allowed storage unit to the disallowed storage unit, is transported to an allowed storage unit. |
US08942840B2 |
Auto device skew manufacturing
A system and method for manufacturing semiconductor devices is disclosed. An embodiment comprises using desired device parameters to choose an initial manufacturing recipe. Once chosen, the initial manufacturing recipe may be modified by determining and applying an offset adjustment based on previous manufacturing to tune the recipes for the particular equipment to be utilized in the manufacturing process. |
US08942836B2 |
Sound effect generating device
A control signal generating means of a sound effect generating device sets the reference volume that is the reference value of the volume of a sound effect when a vehicle is in a predetermined travel state, compares the measured volume of the sound effect detected by a sound effect detecting means when the vehicle is in the predetermined travel state and the reference volume, and corrects the gain of a control signal on the basis of the result of the comparison. |
US08942835B2 |
System and method of operating household appliances
A household appliance configured to communicate with a second household appliance, a network of household appliances that can communication with each other, and method of controlling an operation of a primary function unit of a first household appliance based on one of a priority scheme and synchronized duty cycles of the first household appliance and the second household appliance, wherein the first household appliance is configured to communicate with the second household appliance. The household appliance includes a primary function unit, a controller that controls an operation of the primary function unit, a two-way communication module that transmits and receives signals between the controller and the second household appliance. |
US08942834B2 |
Method and apparatus for communicating transactions between an industrial controller and a programming interface
An industrial control system includes an industrial controller and a programming interface. The programming interface is operable to communicate a plurality of operations for modifying a control program maintained by the industrial controller followed by a commit transaction command. The industrial controller is configured to designate the plurality of operations with a pending status and preprocess the plurality of operations. The industrial controller is further configured to commit the operations and clear the pending status responsive to receiving the commit transaction command. |
US08942830B2 |
Electrode delivery system
An automatic external defibrillator configured to deliver electrical pulses and/or shocks to a heart of a patient during a cardiac emergency includes a housing supporting an electrical connector; a defibrillator electrode delivery system supported on the housing and a pair of defibrillation electrode pads supported by the defibrillator electrode delivery system. Each of the pair of defibrillation electrode pads is pre-connected to the electrical connector of the housing. A hydrogel layer of each defibrillation electrode pad is retained by the defibrillator electrode delivery system in such a manner so as to reduce a moisture vapor transmission rate thereof. |
US08942829B2 |
Trans-septal lead anchoring
Methods, devices and assemblies for anchoring implanted medical electrical leads employed in the stimulating and/or sensing of signals in tissue are disclosed. The devices include a lead anchoring clip having a central hub portion, an anchoring portion for coupling to tissue and a lead engagement mechanism that couples the clip to a medical electrical lead. |
US08942826B2 |
Implantable device with extended electrical conductor
Implantable medical device with at least one long extended electrical conductor that is insulated from the surrounding material by a dielectric. The implantable medical device includes an electrode pole that emits therapy signals or detects diagnostic signals, at least one first longitudinal section of a first characteristic impedance between a proximal end and the electrode pole; and at least one second longitudinal section adjacent to the at least one first longitudinal section. The at least one second longitudinal section includes a second characteristic impedance and is shorter than the first longitudinal section. The second characteristic impedance is either larger or smaller than a load characteristic impedance. |
US08942825B2 |
Implantable device with elongated electrical conductor
A temporarily or permanently implantable medical device having at least one elongated electrical function conductor for transmitting therapeutic signals or diagnostic signals or both. At least one additional conductor is provided which together with the function conductor forms, at least in places, a double line which is separated from the function conductor by a dielectric and which is coupled to the function conductor via a coupling impedance. The coupling impedance is dimensioned so that the value of the line wave impedance of the function conductor for frequency ranges far above a frequency range of the therapeutic or diagnostic signals is much greater than the in the frequency range of the therapeutic or diagnostic signals, so that currents in a frequency range above the frequency range of the therapeutic or diagnostic signals are damped more intensely than the currents which form therapeutic or diagnostic signals. |
US08942821B2 |
Electrode paddle for neurostimulation
An implantable electrode paddle for use in a neurostimulation system may include a dorsally-projecting lead that allows all of the edges of the electrode paddle to be situated near a vertebral body for stimulation of neural structures. Embodiments may include one or more flanges for cooperating with a vertebral body and thereby stabilizing the electrode paddle. Embodiments of the present invention may also include features to allow an electrode paddle to be divided during surgery. Embodiments of the present invention may also include an electrode paddle having a plurality of paddle sections, wherein at least one of the paddle sections comprises a plurality of asymmetrically configured contacts. Embodiments of the invention include a method of assembling a neurostimulation system and a method of implanting an implantable system in a body, wherein the implantable system includes an electrode paddle that may be divided into a plurality of paddle sections. |
US08942819B2 |
Automatic neural stimulation titration sweep
Various neural stimulator embodiments comprise controller circuitry, neural stimulation output circuitry, sensor circuitry and a memory. The neural stimulation output circuitry is configured to deliver the neural stimulation. The controller circuitry is configured to control stimulation parameters of the neural stimulation delivered by the neural stimulation output circuitry. The sensor circuitry, including at least one sensor, is configured to sense a response to the neural stimulation. The controller is configured to communicate with the sensor circuitry. The memory has instructions stored therein, operable on by the controller circuitry. The instructions include instructions for delivering neural stimulation using the neural stimulation output circuitry, instructions for controlling a titration sweep wherein the titration sweep varies stimulation parameter values, and instructions for monitoring a response to the titration sweep and automatically selecting stimulation parameters that provide an efficacious neural stimulation and provide a desirable safety margin to prevent injury to neural tissue. |
US08942817B2 |
Broadcasting a signal indicative of a disease, disorder, or symptom determined in response to contactlessly acquired information
In an embodiment, a system includes a sensor device operable to detect a property of a mammal without a direct physical contact with the mammal. The system also includes a patient assessment device operable to evaluate the detected property of the mammal for an indicator of a disease. The system further includes a patient information device including a computer-readable medium, and configured to maintain and to provide access to information corresponding to the indication of the disease. The system further includes a transmitter device operable to broadcast a signal indicative of the disease. |
US08942811B2 |
Transcranial current stimulation device and method
A device for transcranial stimulation. The device for transcranial stimulation comprises an adjustable current source for providing a stimulation current; a first electrode connected to the current source for electrical connection to a patient; a second electrode connected to the current source for electrical connection to the patient; a first current interruptor for interrupting current flow between the current source and the electrode, the first current interruptor connected between the adjustable current source and the first electrode; and an output monitor connected between the current source and the first electrode for monitoring current to the patient. The output monitor detects an abnormal current it signals the first interruptor, which interrupts the current to the patient. A method of operating a device for transcranial stimulation is also provided. |
US08942800B2 |
Corrective prompting system for appropriate chest compressions
An automated external defibrillator (AED) and methods for a corrective CPR prompting system. The AED includes a sensor that obtains compression measurement data of CPR chest compressions and a control system including a microprocessor programmed to run a non-parametric, Information-Theoretic analysis of the compression measurement data. The analysis includes ranking provided compression measurement data, determining a prompt time TN for review, locating the compression measurement data at TN in an initial expected histogram of depth and rate aspects of the compression data measurements with upper and lower limits, that divides the intervals of the histogram into a plurality of sections, weighting the compression measurement data based on a plurality of factors, deriving information content of the compression measurement data by mapping a probability density function into an information content function, and determining if a particular corrective prompt is necessary. The AED also includes a prompting device that provides corrective CPR. |
US08942794B2 |
System and method for prioritizing medical conditions
The technology disclosed herein generally relates to a method for providing an index disorder in automated patient care. A set of device measures is stored in a database. Quantitative health care data indicators in the database are provided, where the indicators were regularly recorded by a medical device for a patient under automated patient care. Collected device measures are retrieved with a processor. An index disorder is identified through derived measure determination and statistical calculation with a processor. |
US08942791B2 |
Off-line sensing method and its applications in detecting undersensing, oversensing, and noise
A system and method for performing independent, off-line evaluation of event sensing for collected electrograms, comprising: sensing an electrogram using an implantable medical device (IMD); determining locations of heart beats on at least one channel of the electrogram using a multi-pass process, resulting in a group of multi-pass beat locations; storing the electrogram and device-identified beat locations in a memory location; and retrieving the electrogram and device-identified beat locations from the memory location. The multi-pass process determines locations of heart beats on at least a first channel of the electrogram. The device-identified group of beat locations are then compared to the multi-pass group of beat locations identified using the multi-pass method. Based on the comparing step, oversensing of beats, undersensing of beats, or noise from the device can be detected. |
US08942789B2 |
2D3D overlay on a CPR basis for aneurysm repair
In a method for fluoroscopy controlled insertion of a stent into a curved aorta for aneurysm repair, a 3D volume image is obtained of a patient's aorta at the aneurysm. By knowing a registration of the 3D volume image to a C-arm of an angiographic system and projection geometry of the angiography system, the 3D volume images are projected to a 2D fluoroscopy image of the angiography system. For the 2D3D overlay, the 3D volume image is displayed as a curved planar reconstruction in which the 2D fluoroscopy image and the 3D volume image are warped around a curved center line of the curved aorta or around a curved guide instrument center line to correct for the curvature of the aorta so that the previously curved aorta center line or curved center line of the guide instrument turns into a straight line to visualize insertion of the stent. |
US08942788B2 |
Image guided surgery
A bone marker device for use in surgery. The device has attachment means which is/are attachable to bone that will ultimately be resected during the surgery. A guiding device that is removably securable to the bone of a patient adjacent to the joint and on which the bone marker device may be mounted. A guide member of the guiding device has a slot for receiving a bone resector and enabling accurate resection of bone around the joint. |
US08942787B2 |
Soft field tomography system and method
An iteration method for computing a distribution of one or more properties within an object comprises defining a first mesh of the object, applying an excitation to the object, computing a response of the object to the applied excitation, obtaining a reference response of the object corresponding to the applied excitation, computing a distribution of one or more properties of the object, and updating at least a subset of the nodes of the first mesh to form an updated mesh of the object. The distribution of one or more properties of the object is computed using the computed response, the reference response, and the first mesh. The first mesh includes a plurality of nodes and elements. A connectivity relationship of the subset of the nodes in the updated mesh remains the same as in the first mesh. |
US08942780B2 |
DC magnetic-based position and orientation monitoring system for tracking medical instruments
Miniaturized, five and six degrees-of-freedom magnetic sensors, responsive to pulsed DC magnetic fields waveforms generated by multiple transmitter options, provide an improved and cost-effective means of guiding medical instruments to targets inside the human body. The end result is achieved by integrating DC tracking, 3D reconstructions of pre-acquired patient scans and imaging software into a system enabling a physician to internally guide an instrument with real-time 3D vision for diagnostic and interventional purposes. The integration allows physicians to navigate within the human body by following 3D sensor tip locations superimposed on anatomical images reconstructed into 3D volumetric computer models. Sensor data can also be integrated with real-time imaging modalities, such as endoscopes, for intrabody navigation of instruments with instantaneous feedback through critical anatomy to locate and remove tissue. To meet stringent medical requirements, the system generates and senses pulsed DC magnetic fields embodied in an assemblage of miniaturized, disposable and reposable sensors functional with both dipole and co-planar transmitters. |
US08942771B1 |
Dynamic data refresh for mobile device applications
The frequency with which data is refreshed for an application executed by a mobile device may be dynamically set based on one or more of the state of the battery or the network access of the device, or the frequency with which the application is used. The data refresh frequency may also be dynamically set based on additional parameters, including, e.g., the strength of the signal of the network over which the mobile device is communicating. |
US08942768B2 |
Method and system for determining and displaying a text title
A method and system may receive a communication message and determine a text title to associate with the communication message. The text title associated with the communication message may be displayed. |
US08942767B2 |
Communications convergence and user interface systems, apparatuses, and methods
In an exemplary method, communications data representative of communication instances of distinct types is converged and a graphical user interface (“GUI”) including a set of listings representative of a grouping of the communication instances of distinct types is displayed. In certain embodiments, at least one of the communication instances represented in the set of listings includes a voice type communication instance. In certain embodiments, a user selection of one of the listings displayed in the GUI is detected, the selected listing associated with a contact, and another set of listings representative of another grouping of converged communication instances of distinct types is displayed in response to the user selection. In certain embodiments, each of the communication instances in the other grouping is associated with the contact. In certain embodiments, the other set of listings is displayed as a subset within the set of listings in the GUI. |
US08942760B2 |
Integrated bluetooth and wireless LAN transceivers having merged low noise and power amplifier
A group of transistors operate as a combined power amplifier, to amplify signals to be transmitted, and as a low noise amplifier, to amplify signals which are received. In a first mode, the group of transistors is configured to amplify the signals to be transmitted by turning all of the transistors in both a first subset and a second subset on. In a second mode, the group of transistors is configured to amplify the signals which have been received by turning on the first subset of transistors and turning off the second subset of transistors. |
US08942755B1 |
Dynamic gain adjustment via mechanical transducers involving active combiners in wireless networks
A method and system are provided for dynamically adjusting gain in a cell site. Network devices, such as an eNodeB, NodeB, base transceiver station, base station server, radio network controller, and base station controller can provide instructions directly or through remote radio heads to an amplification system to change the power distribution levels. The instructions are received over an AISG protocol and cause a mechanical motor in an amplification system to move a magnetic core in a solenoid causing a change in the electromagnetic field resulting in a change in an electrical current. The change in the electrical current causes a change in gain, thus, resulting in a change in the power distribution level in a cell. |
US08942751B2 |
Apparatus and method for reporting transmission power, and apparatus and method for determining transmission power
Disclosed is an apparatus for reporting transmission power. The apparatus for reporting transmission power includes a transmission power normalization unit, a message generation unit, and a transmission unit. The transmission power normalization unit normalizes a first transmission power at a current Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS) level into a second transmission power at a reference MCS level, the current MCS level being an MCS level of a burst which is intended to comprise a transmission power report of a terminal. The message generation unit generates a message comprising the transmission power report of the terminal with the second transmission power defined therein. The transmission unit transmits the generated message to a base station. |
US08942749B2 |
Method and device for user scheduling and managing transmit power in a communication system
A user scheduling and transmission power controlling method in a hierarchical-cell communication system or a multi-cell communication system, and a device to perform the methods, are provided. Interference may occur between various cells in the hierarchical-cell communication system or the multi-cell communication system, and the interference may be controlled by adjusting transmission power of various cells. The various cells may determine an optimal transmission power based on a cost of a corresponding transmission power. Also, the various cells may serve various users and may propose an optimal user scheduling method. |
US08942745B2 |
Methods and apparatus for dynamic carrier selection for cell base stations
Apparatus and methods are disclosed for mitigating interference to radio base stations. A first base station provides a served cell that at least partially overlaps a served cell of a second base station. The first and second base stations are part of a telecommunications system. The method includes identifying at least one carrier that is preferable for the second base station to utilize for communications with at least one UE to avoid interference. The method further includes communicating an instruction message from the first base station to the second base station that instructs the second base station to use the at least one carrier for communications. |
US08942744B2 |
White space use system with connecting cognitive signal
Provided is a white space use system using a connection recognition signal, which is associated with technology that enables white space devices to search for and to use an available frequency band in a digital broadcasting system. In particular, provided is a white space use system using a connection recognition signal that enables even devices incapable of autonomously searching for an available channel to safely use a white space in interaction with white space devices. |
US08942741B2 |
Text alternative to established voice call session
Methods and systems are described wherein an initiating device sends a communication requesting a voice call session with a recipient device. In response, the initiating device receives a communication indicating that the initiating device can provide a text message instead of establishing the voice call session. In some cases, the communication may refuse the request voice call session, while in other cases the communication may simply indicate that the recipient device supports text messaging as an alternative to voice mail. As a result of the received communication, the initiating device outputs a text input prompt. After receiving text input in response to the prompt, the initiating device sends a text message containing the received text input. |
US08942739B2 |
Methods and apparatus for communication of notifications
Methods and apparatus for communication of notifications are disclosed. A disclosed method for communicating notifications from a server to a device includes sending a primary message including data indicating notification status information; and sending notification messages apart from the primary message addressed to specific groups of devices. Similarly, another disclosed method for obtaining notifications in a device from a server includes monitoring the primary message including current notification status information, comparing the current notification information status information with a previous notification status information to determine if a change in notification status information has occurred, and obtaining addressed notification information when a change in the notification status information has been determined. By using a primary message with abbreviated information to communicate whether changes to notification information have occurred without the need for further processing and/or addressed notification messages, system resources can be conserved. Corresponding apparatus are also disclosed. |
US08942737B2 |
Location measuring method and apparatus using access point and lamp
Measuring a location of a communication terminal using a wireless local area access point based on location coordinates of the access points and location information of a nearby lamp. |
US08942728B2 |
Methods and apparatus for blackout, retune and subscription enforcement in a cellular network multimedia distribution system
A method for blackout, retune and roaming enforcement in a cellular network multimedia distribution system is disclosed. The method includes the acts of receiving a plurality of service regions in the cellular network multimedia distribution system; determining an affiliation of the client with one of the service regions in the plurality of service regions; and processing a service region specific message based on the affiliation. An apparatus, as well as a computer-readable medium having instructions stored thereon, the stored instructions, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform the method are also disclosed. |
US08942727B1 |
User Location Tracking
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for receiving information from a remote system comprising one or more time periods during which a location of the client device can be tracked and monitoring the location of the client device during each of the time periods by obtaining a plurality of location coordinates from the client device during the time period and persistently storing the location coordinates on the client device. |
US08942721B1 |
Multipath-aware wireless device location identifier systems, devices and methods
A non-transitory processor-readable medium storing code representing instructions to be executed by a processor includes code to cause the processor to receive from a wireless access point (WAP) device frequency-domain data associated with signals received at the WAP device from a wireless device during a time period. The code includes code to determine multiple frequency-domain magnitudes associated with the frequency-domain data for the time period to define a spectral magnitude signature associated with the frequency-domain data. Each frequency-domain magnitude from the multiple frequency-domain magnitudes is uniquely associated with a frequency bin from multiple mutually-exclusive frequency bins associated with the frequency domain data. The code also includes code to identify a spectral response deviation associated with the spectral magnitude signature and send a location identifier associated with a location of the wireless device based on the spectral response deviation. |
US08942720B2 |
Positioning node, user equipment and methods therein
Methods in a user equipment (UE) for enabling positioning of the UE in a radio communication network having a radio network node and a positioning node. The UE is served in a first cell controlled by the radio network node, and the UE knows or can obtain a system frame number of at least one cell. The UE receives, from the positioning node, a message having positioning assistance data, which includes information associated with the at least one cell for which the system frame number is known or can be obtained by the UE. The UE also performs a positioning measurement using the positioning assistance data and the system frame number of the at least one cell to enable positioning of the UE. |
US08942717B2 |
Load balancing techniques in wireless networks
Techniques are described that provide load balancing in wireless networks. For instance, a device (e.g., a first access point) may receive one or more current operational characteristics for each of one or more neighbor APs. Also, the first AP may determine a received signal strength for each of these neighbor AP(s). In turn, the first AP selects one or more reportable neighbor APs from these neighbor APs. Further, the first AP transmits a beacon. This beacon includes, for each reportable neighbor AP, the corresponding one or more current operational characteristics and the corresponding received signal strength. |
US08942716B2 |
Radio resource control method, radio base station, and radio network controller
A radio resource control method of controlling a radio resource for transmitting user data by a mobile station via an uplink, including: sending, from a radio base station, a signal indicative of a reduction of a maximum allowable transmission rate of the user data signaled to the mobile station connected to the radio base station, to a radio network controller; and controlling, at the radio network controller, the radio resource based on the reported signal indicative of the reduction of the maximum allowable transmission rate. |
US08942711B2 |
Local point of presence
Systems and techniques for providing a telecommunications service by receiving a request for a telecommunications service from a wireless client, providing a local exchange point of presence to the wireless client in response to the request, and providing the telecommunications service to the wireless client through the local exchange point of presence. The local exchange point of presence may be based on the geographic location of the wireless client. |
US08942699B2 |
Base station, mobile station, communication system, and communication method
A base station communicates with a mobile station that receives downlink data from the base station and that transmits uplink data to a second base station. The base station includes a data transmitter configured to transmit the downlink data to the mobile station; and a control information receiver configured to receive from the mobile station through a path passing through the second base station, feedback information concerning the downlink data transmitted by the data transmitter. |
US08942695B2 |
Method and apparatus for reducing call setup delay by adjusting SIB7 and SIB14 scheduling frequency
An apparatus and method for reducing call setup time of a wireless communication device including measuring paging intensity, and adjusting SIB7 or SIB14 repetition period based on the measured paging intensity to reduce call setup time. In one aspect, a paging intensity threshold is determined based on the measured paging intensity, and the paging intensity threshold is used to adjust the SIB7 or SIB14 repetition period. |
US08942691B2 |
Aftermarket telematics unit and method for detecting a target mounting angle thereof
An aftermarket telematics unit is disclosed herein. The aftermarket telematics unit includes, but is not limited to a housing that is configured to be mounted to an internal surface of a vehicle. The aftermarket telematics unit further includes an angle detection unit that is associated with the housing and that is configured to detect a mounting angle of the housing. The aftermarket telematics unit still further includes a processor that is associated with the housing. The processor is configured to perform an initial configuration procedure and is further configured to discontinue the initial configuration procedure when the mounting angle is out of a target range. |
US08942690B2 |
Access control based on receipt of defined information from access terminal
Access control techniques enable an access terminal to obtain service through an access point. In some aspects, access control techniques may be used to enable a user (e.g., an owner) of an access point to control whether an access terminal obtains service through the access point. For example, a user may temporarily disable access control at an access point to enable access points that register with the access point while access control is disabled to thereafter be allowed to obtain service through the access point. As another example, a shared secret may be provided to an access terminal whereby, upon presenting the shared secret to an access point, the access terminal is allowed to obtain service through the access point. |
US08942689B2 |
Method and technology for remote administration of wireless devices
A remote administrator to allow a caregiver to configure a user's wireless device includes a master software client in the remote administrator and a controllable software client in the wireless device. Commands transmitted to the wireless device from the remote administrator allow the caregiver to configure the user's wireless device based on user initiated configuration requested. |
US08942687B2 |
Selective call forwarding based on the location of a mobile device
Communication networks and methods are disclosed for selectively applying call forwarding between a mobile device and a fixed line device based on the location of the mobile device. A communication network includes a call control function that receives a call attempt to a mobile directory number. Responsive to the call attempt, the call control function identifies a location of the mobile device, and determines whether to apply call forwarding based on the location of the mobile device. If call forwarding is applied, then the call control function forwards the call attempt to the fixed line device instead of the mobile device. A similar process is performed for a call attempt to the fixed line device for forwarding the call to the mobile device. |
US08942686B2 |
Providing and managing bypass of enhanced services
A communication environment includes of one or more subscriber terminals capable of initiating emergency voice calls over a telephony network. The subscriber terminal further send messages over either a data network or a telephony signaling network to a communication management system. The communication management system receives messages from a subscriber terminal, either via a data network or a telephony signaling network. It also consists of one or more telephony switching nodes capable of querying the emergency context node for a called party emergency context. It also consists of one or more servers that provide advanced call control services. |
US08942684B2 |
Adaptive scaffolding of levels of connectivity during a conference
Systems, methods, and computer program products for adaptively scaffolding of levels of connectivity between one or more customer devices during customer service conference are provided. The system includes various applications and features executable on a computing and/or mobile computing device. The system includes a user interface configured to present tools and features that allows a customer, during a digital conference with a bank representative, to manipulate the channels of communication, levels of connectivity or other features of the digital conference. In some instances, a scaffolding application on the bank's server may be provided to dynamically adjust the levels of connectivity and/or channels of communication of an ongoing digital conference session between a customer and a bank representative based on prior conferences involving the customer and/or a bank representative. As such, the system allows for self-directed and/or computer-aided adjustment of levels of connectivity during a conference. |