| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09016659B2 |
Fiber reinforced elastomer anisotropic annular blowout preventer
A packer unit for an annular blowout preventer including an annular elastomer body including an elastomer having a unidirectional grain and a quantity of fiber longitudinally aligned with the grain of the elastomer. A method of forming a packing unit for a blowout preventer including forming a fiber reinforced elastomer by aligning fibers with a grain of an elastomer; cutting a portion from the fiber reinforced elastomer in the direction of the grain; loading the cut portion in a packing unit mold such that the grain of the fiber reinforced elastomer of the cut portion is parallel to a packing unit axis; and heating the loaded packing unit mold. |
| US09016652B2 |
Corner protector
A corner protector comprising a guard, strap, and plate or rod are disclosed. The second portion and third portion of the guard are substantially orthogonal to the first portion, and to each other. The second portion and third portion meet to define a corner protrusion. The guard has interior extending ribs that are substantially vertical and maintain contact with the guard. The strap has at least one connection member on each end to allow the corner protector to be adjusted vertically. The plate or rod has at least one locking member for creating a locking mechanism with the connection member. |
| US09016651B2 |
Modular beverage holder
A beverage container holder adapted to hold a wide variety of containers including cups, bottles, mugs, and tumblers. The device preferably includes a base, an upright extending upward from the base, and a receiver near the top of the upright. The receiver preferably includes a cup holder which is preferably made detachable so that it may be washed in a dishwasher. The height of the receiver with respect to the base is adjustable in the present invention. The rotation of the receiver with respect to the base is preferably also made adjustable. The adjustment mechanism may preferably be activated using only one hand. |
| US09016647B2 |
Monitor mounting apparatus
The instant disclosure relates to a monitor mounting apparatus for disposing on a working surface. The mounting apparatus includes a base, an adjusting unit, and a tilt bracket. The base is arranged on the working surface and has at least one guiding member. The adjusting unit includes at least one sliding member and at least one connecting member interconnected. The sliding member may be slidably arranged on the guiding member. The tilt bracket has an outer end portion and at least one connecting portion. The connecting portion is pivotally connected to the connecting member, and the outer end portion is defined on one end of the tilt bracket away from the connecting member. The tilt bracket may be oriented at various angular and vertical positions. The user may adjust the monitor mounting apparatus to suit the person's needs. |
| US09016632B1 |
Method and system for weakening shock wave strength at leading edge surfaces of vehicle in supersonic atmospheric flight
A method and system are provided to weaken shock wave strength at leading edge surfaces of a vehicle in atmospheric flight. One or more flight-related attribute sensed along a vehicle's outer mold line are used to control the injection of a non-heated, non-plasma-producing gas into a local external flowfield of the vehicle from at least one leading-edge surface location along the vehicle's outer mold line. Pressure and/or mass flow rate of the gas so-injected is adjusted in order to cause a Rankine-Hugoniot Jump Condition along the vehicle's outer mold line to be violated. |
| US09016631B2 |
Multi-purpose hatch system
A multi-purpose hatch system having a removable antenna mounting plug, block or plate for installing multiple configurations of antennas or sensors is disclosed. The system features a hatch having an opening sized to receive the antenna mounting plug, block or plate. The hatch features handles which aid in installation and removal of the hatch. Multiple configurations of antennas or sensors attached to the plate can easily be removed and quickly installed to configure an aircraft for a specific mission. The system also features a billet machined hatch body, field replaceable seals and easily adaptable antenna or sensor mounting configurations which provide unprecedented ruggedness, antenna options, and field supportability. |
| US09016630B2 |
Control system for dimmable windows
Electrically dimmable windows for aircraft are powered by energy harvesting devices on-board the aircraft. The harvested energy is stored and used to control the opacity of the windows based on individual window opacity settings selected either by passengers or a cabin attendant. Each window has an associated control circuit that controls the electrical power applied to the window based on the selected opacity setting. The control circuit includes a low energy usage processor that remains in a sleep mode until a change in the opacity setting is detected. Each control circuit may include a radio transceiver that receives control signals from a transmitter operated by the cabin attendant in order to simultaneously remotely control the opacity settings of multiple windows. |
| US09016625B2 |
Reconfigurable floorboard system
A floorboard for a reconfigurable floorboard system may include a substantially trapezoid shaped plate. An interlocking feature may be formed proximate an edge of at least three sides of the plate for interlocking with adjacent floorboards. Each interlocking feature may be formed to interlock with a mating interlocking feature formed at an edge of a side of at least one adjacent floorboard. A notch may be formed on an underside of the plate proximate each corner of the plate to contact a member of a floor grid to prevent movement of the floorboard. |
| US09016623B2 |
Jam protection and alleviation for control surface linkage mechanisms
A flaperon mechanism that provides jam protection while preventing the component departing from the airplane or causing unacceptable collateral damage. The jam protection feature comprises a controlled failure (fused) mechanism that is associated with the flaperon and flaperon hinge panel and maintains functional movement of the devices. Additional features can be added to the mechanism to block, shield, allow runout and shed other obstruction avenues. |
| US09016622B1 |
Flight system for a constant volume, variable buoyancy air vehicle
A system for providing lift to an air vehicle with vertical takeoff and landing capabilities comprising an aerodynamically enhanced hull filled with lighter-than-air gas. The vehicle is equipped with a system to compress and store the lighter-than-air gas. The present invention system keeps the volume of the lighter-than-air gas near to constant during all phases of flight. The present invention system also adjusts the vehicle's buoyancy during payload/cargo loading and unloading operations. |
| US09016617B2 |
Unmanned aerial vehicle and operations thereof
The present invention provides methods and apparatus for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) with improved reliability. According to one aspect of the invention, interference experienced by onboard sensors from onboard electrical components is reduced. According to another aspect of the invention, user-configuration or assembly of electrical components is minimized to reduce user errors. |
| US09016616B2 |
Flying object
By using the interaction between the wind flow and the stabilizer arranged in the wind flow and along the direction of the wind flow, this invention provides the flying object that secures the stability of device or aircraft or stabilizer itself unified with the stabilizer by above effect. The interaction mentioned above is that when the wind flow hits the stabilizer at a certain angle, the wind flow changes the direction, and the power corresponding its reaction is given to the stabilizer by its reaction. |
| US09016611B2 |
Medium storing and advancing apparatus
To provide a medium storing and advancing apparatus for inhibiting rotation of a drum when tapes are completely rewound from the drum. The apparatus includes reels supplying and winding up the tapes, a drum winding up the tapes supplied from the reels or rewinding wound-up tapes to supply the tapes to the reels, and an inhibiting mechanism inhibiting further rotation of the drum in a direction of rewinding the tapes when the drum completely rewinds the tapes, whereby the inhibiting mechanism inhibits the rotation of the drum. |
| US09016610B2 |
Winding for a rotary electrical machine
A method and device for winding a rotor or a stator (2), of a rotary electrical machine, having a series of teeth (21) which are delimited by notches (22). In each notch there are inserted M continuous electric wires (3) constituting a turn; M being equal to 1 or more, characterised in that n×M wires (3) are wound simultaneously in a number n of notches (22), n corresponding to the number of phases and being ≧2. The assembly of the M wires (3) constituting a phase, being inserted in a single notch (22). The device for winding has at least two carriages (4, 5), with a series of teeth, delimited by n notches (40, 50). And, likewise corresponding to the winding, each set of M continuous electric wires (3) constituting a turn, is characterised in that M×n wires (3) are inserted simultaneously in the extension of the n notches (22) of the rotary electrical machine in the n notches (40, 50) in the respective carriages (4, 5). All of the M×n wires (3) are bent together at least twice by bending the carriages (4, 5) relative to one another, and all of the M×n wires (3) thus bent are folded back in the following successive n1 notches (22) of the rotary electrical machine. |
| US09016609B2 |
Modular system and method for deployment and retrieval of large diameter hoses
A hose deployment and retrieval system is described that includes a modular reel assembly. The modular reel assembly includes a reel having a hub around which a hose may be wound and a wheel assembly on either side of the hub and spaced to accept the hose there between. The reel assembly also includes an axle in the center of the hub around which the hub can spin and a base holding the axle. A deployment fork assembly includes a reel assembly mount for engaging with the modular reel assembly and a drive mechanism to spin the reel when the deployment fork assembly is engaged with the modular reel assembly, wherein the deployment fork assembly is adapted to mount to a vehicle. |
| US09016607B2 |
Multi-stage retractable cord winder device
A retractable cord winder device, which has a front cover with center shaft, a spiral spring, a spool with a spool divider with flanged hook dividing the spool chamber into equal halves for efficient and minimal noise cable coiling, oval sliding positioning sliding disc, and a rear cover with concave recess to hold the oval positioning sliding disc with positioning stopper. The front cover is mounted with the rear cover through the center shaft via a center hole of the rear cover where there are symmetrical openings on both ends for cords folded in half to be attached to the flanged hook and retracted upon pulling down. |
| US09016606B1 |
Paper shredder with staple and clip remover
A paper shredder includes a housing, cutters positioned in the housing, and a feeder base adapted to support a stack of paper. The feeder base includes a feeder slot. The feeder base further includes a sidewall extending in a direction generally perpendicular to the feeder slot, and an aperture formed in the feeder base at a location spaced from the feeder slot. The aperture provides a pathway between a top surface of the feeder base and a waste area below the feeder base and has a first end closest to the sidewall and defining a first end point closest to the feeder slot, and a second end farthest from the sidewall and defining a second end point closest to the feeder slot. The first end point is closer to the feeder slot than the second end point. |
| US09016605B2 |
Facility for grinding inorganic material, having a roller press
A facility for grinding inorganic material include a roller press, a first static separator having an intake supplied with raw material, a dynamic separator having an intake connected to a first output of the first static separator, a ventilation circuit provided through the first static separator and the dynamic separator, and a second static separator having an intake that is connected to an output of the roller press. The first static separator includes two outputs, one for low-granulatory matter and one for larger granulatory matter, whereby the second output is connected to the roller press. The dynamic separator further includes a first output for particles having the desired granulometry and a second output for matter with larger granulometry connected to an intake of the roller press. The ventilation circuit participates in the separation, drying, and transport of low-granulometry particles. |
| US09016603B2 |
Fuel injector
A common rail fuel injector includes a control valve member unattached to, but trapped between, a push pin and a seat of an injector body. The push pin has a head that includes a contact surface and a crown that includes a stop surface. An air gap surface of an armature is located between a top of the head and the stop surface of the crown when the contact surface of the push pin is in contact with the armature. The stop surface of the crown is located between an air gap plane of a stator assembly and the air gap surface of the armature. The push pin, the armature and the control valve member are movable among a rest configuration, an injection configuration, and an over travel configuration. |
| US09016598B2 |
Nozzle rotation mechanism and application device therewith
Disclosed is a nozzle rotation mechanism that is small in size, has a simple structure, and can accurately adjust the rotational direction of a nozzle tip. Also disclosed is a coating device provided with the aforementioned nozzle rotation mechanism. The nozzle rotation mechanism is provided with: a nozzle having a discharge outlet from which a liquid material is discharged; a nozzle unit having a channel that connects the nozzle and a liquid material supply source; a base member; and a rotation device that is provided on the base member and rotates the nozzle unit. The nozzle is disposed in the nozzle unit such that the centerline of the discharge outlet of the nozzle forms an angle with the rotational centerline of the nozzle unit, and the nozzle unit is removably mounted to the rotation device. |
| US09016596B2 |
Method for process diagnosis and rotary atomizer arrangement
A rotary atomizer arrangement and methods for operating the same are disclosed. An exemplary atomizer may be used for the coating of work pieces, and may include a bell plate driven by an electric motor. The exemplary atomizer may further be configured for the detection of errors in the spraying process and/or the drive system of the bell plate, such as by analyzing corresponding parameters of typical values of the drive motor. |
| US09016592B2 |
Antenna device and communication terminal apparatus
An RFIC element includes a capacitance therein. By this capacitance and an inductance of a loop-shaped conductor, an LC resonant circuit is provided. When UHF-band high-frequency power is supplied to the loop-shaped conductor from the RFIC element, the loop-shaped conductor is coupled to a flat conductor in an electromagnetic field by a current flowing through the loop-shaped conductor, and induced currents flow through the flat conductor. By propagation of the induced currents through the flat conductor, the flat conductor acts as a radiation element. It is preferred that the dimension in the longitudinal direction of the flat conductor be a half wavelength of the used frequency band. Accordingly, the flat conductor acts as a half-wave radiation element. |
| US09016578B2 |
Apparatus for and method of electro-optically reading a target in the presence of ambient light by suppressing the ambient light
A reader for electro-optically reading a target in the presence of ambient light to be suppressed, includes a laser for emitting a laser beam, a scan component for scanning the laser beam across the target, a photodetector for detecting return laser light from the target to generate an information signal bearing information related to the target, and for concomitantly detecting the ambient light to generate an ambient light signal, and signal processing circuitry for measuring the ambient light signal, for processing both the information signal and the ambient light signal in one mode of operation when the measured ambient light signal is below a threshold, and for suppressing the ambient light signal and for processing only the information signal in another mode of operation when the measured ambient light signal at least equals the threshold. |
| US09016577B2 |
Machine-readable symbols
A variety of forms of machine-readable symbols are disclosed, as well as methods and systems of constructing machine-readable symbols, methods and systems of acquiring machine-readable symbols, and methods and systems of decoding machine-readable symbols. |
| US09016573B2 |
Sensor unit and measurement method
A sensor unit is disclosed which includes a sensor and an information module. The sensor exhibits an optical behavior dependent on at least one variable of a sample. Sensor related information can be emitted by the information module as optical radiation. In embodiments the sensor related information includes calibration data for the sensor. The sensor related information may additionally include identification data for the sensor. In embodiments the information module measures at least one ambient parameter, and emits the measurement value in an optical signal. The measurement value is taken into account when determining at least one variable of a sample by means of the sensor unit. In embodiments the information module may also transmit status information of the sensor unit. Furthermore a method for determining a variable of a sample with a sensor unit and a measurement system is disclosed. |
| US09016571B2 |
Two dimensional code and method of creating the same
A computer-implemented method of creating a two dimensional code comprises providing a two dimensional code comprising a cell, providing a picture comprising a patch corresponding to the cell of the two dimensional code, providing a plurality of cell patterns different from each other, wherein each cell pattern comprises a plurality of sub-cells, and determining one of the plurality of cell patterns for the cell of the two dimensional code according to the patch of the picture. |
| US09016569B2 |
Encoding data in multiple formats
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on computer storage media, for modulating card information between a card reader and a user device. One of the methods includes receiving, from a read head of the card reader, card information associated with a card. The card information is encoded in a first format to be sent to the user device at a first data rate. The card information is encoded in a second format to be sent to the user device at a second data rate lower than the first data rate. The card information is sent to the user device encoded in the first format and the second format. |
| US09016567B2 |
System and method for chopping up and processing gift cards
Systems, methods, and computer-readable media for chopping up a gift card/code into smaller multiple gift card/codes. The system receives a request from a user to convert a closed-loop card/code having a value amount into two different closed-loop cards/codes and divides (or “chops up”) the closed-loop card/code into a first closed-loop card/code having a first value amount and a second closed-loop card/code having a second value amount, wherein the first value amount and the second value amount add up to no more than the value amount. The system offers the first closed-loop card/code and the second closed-loop card/code to one of the user and a third party. |
| US09016566B2 |
Apparatus and method for commercial transactions using a communication device
An apparatus for effecting commercial transactions with a server using a transaction card via a communication device is provided. The apparatus includes a transaction device coupled with the communication device for capturing information from the transaction card and a controller for converting the captured card information into an encrypted audio signal and for transmitting the audio signal to the communication device. The communication device delivers the audio signal to the server for processing the commercial transaction. |
| US09016562B1 |
Verifying relative locations of machine-readable tags using composite sensor data
Methods and systems read a machine identification code from a machine using a portable computerized device. Such methods and systems automatically sense current environmental conditions of the location and automatically calculate a current location-based environmental signature based on the current environmental conditions sensed by the sensors. Also, such methods and systems automatically compare the current location-based environmental signature with a previously stored location-based environmental signature to verify whether the machine identification code is in the correct location based on a similarity measure being above a predetermined threshold, using the processor. Such methods also display a machine identification validity message on a graphic user interface of the portable computerized device based on the process of verifying the machine identification code determining that the machine identification code is in the correct location. |
| US09016558B2 |
Access opening closure device
An access opening closure device is provided for enabling passage of food or medication into a confined space without providing direct access from within the confined space to outside of the confined space. The device includes a housing assembly including a body and a cover, and a slide assembly including an access door and a frame. The body defines a receptacle and first and second openings. The housing assembly is pivotally coupled to the slide assembly and is movable from an operative position to a stowed, non-operative position. |
| US09016553B2 |
Method for welding a flange to a guide thimble tube in nuclear fuel assembly
Disclosed therein are an apparatus for and a method of welding a flange to a guide thimble tube in a nuclear fuel assembly. The automatic welding apparatus includes a welding unit located on an axially conveying line of a tube for welding a surface of the tube inserted thereinto and a surface of a flange, a flange supplying unit for supplying the flange at a tube inlet of the welding unit onto the axially conveying line, and a conveying unit mounted on the axially conveying line in such a way as to move the tube and the flange on the axially conveying line, so that they are inserted into and drawn from the welding unit. |
| US09016552B2 |
Method for forming interposers and stacked memory devices
Methods for forming a stacking interposer are provided that create a more compact and/or reliable interposer cavity. According to one method, a segmentation process that partially cuts a multi-cell, multi-layer PCB panel to a controlled depth along the internal walls/edges of a cavity region with each of the interposer cell sites defined within the PCB panel is used. The material within the cavity region is then removed (by routing) to a controlled depth to form the internal cavity for each interposer cell site. Pillars may then be removed from the PCB panel. As a result of the initial partial cuts of the internal walls of the cavity region, the corners of the cavities may have a square configuration for fitting over the top of a BGA/memory device (which has very square corners). |
| US09016549B2 |
Quick change over tooling for a welder
A weld stack includes a horn having a weld end, a polar mount adapted to receive a portion of the horn therein, a first adjustment ring coupled to the polar mount at a pre-determined distance from the weld end of the horn, and a second adjustment ring coupled to the polar mount adjacent the first adjustment ring, wherein the second adjustment ring includes a fine adjustment device for adjusting a relative position of the first adjustment ring and the second adjustment ring. |
| US09016548B2 |
Method and device for producing welded connections
A method and machine for producing welded reinforcing steel rod mats for use in the production of DIN-conforming reinforced concrete components having primarily no static loads, and to such a reinforcing steel rod mat, uses a welding device, one or more reinforcing steel rods, and one or more stay braces in the case of uniaxial reinforcing steel mats, positioned relative to each other with position control and optionally with position correction of the reinforcing steel rods to be welded together, and a reinforcing steel rod is welded in the area of at least one of the ribs thereof to a stay brace, or to another reinforcing steel rod in the area of at least one of the ribs of the rod. |
| US09016546B2 |
Anvil-mounted dissecting tip for surgical stapling device
A surgical stapling device including a handle assembly, an endoscopic portion and an end effector is disclosed. The endoscopic portion extends distally from the handle assembly and defines a first longitudinal axis. The end effector defines a second longitudinal axis and includes an anvil assembly and a cartridge assembly. The anvil assembly is supported adjacent a distal end of the endoscopic portion and includes a dissecting tip extending therefrom. The cartridge assembly is pivotably mounted adjacent the distal end of the endoscopic portion. The cartridge assembly is mounted for pivotal movement in relation to the anvil assembly between open and approximated positions. |
| US09016544B2 |
Circular stapler and staple line reinforcement material
A surgical stapling instrument includes a staple cartridge assembly having a plurality of rows of staple receiving slots and an anvil assembly having a plurality of rows of staple forming recesses. The staple cartridge assembly, the anvil assembly, or both have one or more attachment members overmolded thereon. A staple line reinforcement material is attached to the attachment members. |
| US09016540B2 |
Device and method for controlling compression of tissue
A method and device for controlling the compression of tissue include clamping tissue between a first clamping member and a second clamping member by driving at least one of the clamping members with an electric motor toward a predetermined tissue gap between the clamping members and, during the clamping, monitoring a parameter of the electric motor indicative of a clamping force exerted to the tissue by the clamping members. The method and device include, during the clamping, controlling the electric motor, based on the monitored parameter, to limit the clamping force to a predetermined maximum limit. |
| US09016539B2 |
Multi-use loading unit
A cartridge assembly is disclosed. The cartridge assembly includes a channel and a removable assembly in releasable engagement with the channel. The removable assembly includes a cartridge body and a support plate. The cartridge body includes an engagement structure disposed adjacent a proximal end thereof. The support plate is configured to mechanically engage the cartridge body and includes an engagement structure disposed adjacent a proximal end thereof. The engagement structure of the cartridge body is configured for longitudinal alignment with the engagement structure of the support plate. The engagement structures of the cartridge body and the engagement structure of the support plate are configured to mechanically engage the engagement structure of the channel when the removable assembly is engaged with the channel. |
| US09016530B2 |
Control valve having a disposable valve body
A method and apparatus for controlling a flow of a fluid through a valve. In one illustrative embodiment, an apparatus comprises an elongate member, an actuation device, and a valve body. The actuation device is configured to move the elongate member, which may be associated with the actuation device, between an open position and a closed position. The valve body is configured for attachment to the actuation device such that the elongate member is positioned within the valve body. Fluid that flows into the valve body from a fluid source is allowed to flow out of the valve body when the elongate member is in the open position. |
| US09016528B2 |
Beverage dispensing apparatus comprising an integrated pressure reducing channel
A beverage dispensing apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes a container containing a beverage to be dispensed. Pressurizing means are provided for increasing the pressure in the interior of the container. A dispensing duct brings in fluid communication the liquid beverage contained in the container with the exterior environment and draws the beverage out of the container. The dispensing duct comprises a dispensing pipe opening to ambient via a valve, and a pressure reducing channel with an opening connecting in fluid communication the interior of the container with the dispensing pipe. The pressure reducing channel is disposed in a housing made of two half bodies joined together. Each body includes a matching open channel forming the closed pressure reducing channel upon joining. At least one of the half bodies is an integral part of either the container's closure or the chime. |
| US09016525B2 |
Beverage dispenser for alcoholic beverages
A beverage dispenser for use with a beverage container containing an alcoholic beverage includes a base with an upper outside surface, a vertically-inclined bore within the base, a valve bore in fluid communication with and transverse to the vertically-inclined bore, and a vent formed in the base to maintain fluid communication between the vertically-inclined bore and the atmosphere external to the base where the vertically-inclined bore extends a first pre-defined distance into the base from the upper outside surface and defines an upper opening in the base for receiving a neck portion of an inverted beverage container and where the valve bore extends a second pre-defined distance into the base and fluidly communicates with a lower portion of the vertically-inclined bore. |
| US09016523B2 |
Beverage dispenser
A beverage dispensing system includes a nozzle body with a plurality of ingredient inlets and a water inlet disposed in the nozzle body. A diffuser is connected to the nozzle body and has floor with a plurality of holes therethrough. A nozzle cap is connected to the diffuser and has an outlet. A first mixing chamber is formed between the ingredient inlets and the diffuser floor, and a second mixing chamber is formed between the diffuser and the outlet, with the second mixing chamber being configured to receive fluid from the first mixing chamber via the holes in the diffuser floor. A first water flow path is situated between the water inlet and the first mixing chamber, and a second water flow path is situated between the water inlet and the second mixing chamber, wherein the second water flow path bypasses the first mixing chamber. |
| US09016521B2 |
Product dispenser package for personal use
A product dispenser package for storing a viscous product for personal use comprises a container including an interior chamber extending to a sealable opening, the interior chamber being structured and disposed for holding the viscous product, and whereby squeezing one's fingers against the container and directing one's fingers along the length of the container from the bottom end of the container towards the top end of the container forces the viscous product out of the interior chamber through the opening. In a preferred embodiment, a portion of the relevant end of the dispenser package is folded over on itself to prevent inadvertent emission of the product. The folded segments may be sealed with a food grade adhesive or held together by a band sized for engaged receipt of the folded segments. |
| US09016520B2 |
Floating squirting toy
A squirting toy is comprised of a cylindrical housing and a piston that slides within to force water into or out of the housing via a hole therein. The housing is encased within a shell creating a water impervious volume sufficient for the toy to float in water. The shell is soft, so that the gun is not a safety hazard when left floating in a swimming pool. Handles associated with one or both actuating portions of the squirting toy are provided for gripping and operating the squirting toy more effectively. |
| US09016519B2 |
Concentrate level sensing
A beverage system includes a pump that draws a set mount of a flavored concentrate into a mixing chamber through a conduit for mixing with water to form a beverage. A sensor detects when the amount of the flavored concentrate in the conduit or in the container is low or out. The sensor includes two wings each including a recessed surface that together defines a circular space. A portion of the conduit is received in the circular space. Each of the wings includes an ultrasonic portion that emits ultrasonic waves that are non-intrusive. When the amount of flavored concentrate in the conduit is low, air bubbles are generated in the flow along the conduit and/or a vacuum is created in the conduit to draw the conduit away from the recessed surface. The ultrasonic waves detect either of these two features, indicating that the amount of the flavored concentrate is low. |
| US09016515B2 |
Removable gripping device for a cooking vessel without indexing
A removable handle assembly for a cooking vessel a gripping body, a front end of which forms a flared jaw. The flared jaw has projections adapted to clamp the wall of a vessel. The projections are substantially linear in shape in directions that intersect in front of the gripping body. A flared mobile jaw is mounted on the gripping body to rotate about a first axis between a release position and a clamping position. The flared jaw has two projections (504) of substantially linear shape in directions that intersect in front of the gripping body. An actuating lever mounted on the gripping body rotates about a second axis between a deployed position and a retracted position. A mechanism actuated by the actuating lever locks the mobile jaw in the clamping position. |
| US09016513B2 |
Tank splashguard with multi-tiered labyrinth
A splashguard is disclosed for use with a tank. The splashguard may include a main channel formed by an elongated base plate and side walls extending generally orthogonally from the elongated base plate by a first distance. The splashguard may also include a first end channel formed by a base plate and side walls extending generally orthogonally from the base plate by a second distance greater than the first distance. The first end channel may also be formed by an end wall extending generally orthogonally from the base plate by the second distance. The splashguard may further include a second end channel substantially identical to the first end channel. A first flow path may be maintained between the elongated base plate of the main channel and the base plate of the first end channel. A second flow path may be maintained between the elongated base plate of the main channel and the base plate of the second end channel. |
| US09016511B2 |
Heated container
A temperature changing container includes a plurality of walls joined to form an enclosure which seals contents of the enclosure within the walls. One of the walls includes a depression extending into the enclosure. Upon activation, chemicals at least partially disposed within the depression change temperature. |
| US09016506B1 |
Locking lid assembly for containers
A locking lid assembly for use with an open top container. The lid assembly includes a lid having a upper and lower surfaces, and an outer perimeter, a retention frame swingably suspended from the bottom surface of the lid portion adjacent the outer perimeter of the lid, and a flexible tightener associated with the retention frame and configured to selectively exert a force on the retention frame, such that the force cause the retention frame to shorten in effective length and swing inwardly away from the outer perimeter of the lid. |
| US09016505B2 |
Flexible container for packaging, in particular in sterile conditions, of food products and relative package comprising said flexible container
The present invention regards a package (1) for food products comprising a flexible container (2) having a first wall (5) and a second wall (6) opposite each other and peripherally sealed along at least the respective side edges (5a, 6a, 5b, 6b), a space (8) inside said walls containing, optionally in sterile conditions, a food product (73), and a gusset element (10) extended between the upper edges (5c, 6c) of said first wall (5) and of said second wall (6), said gusset element (10) defining a pocket (14) turned towards the interior of said flexible container (2), characterized in that it comprises an opening and closing device (3) housed in said pocket (14) and constrained to said flexible container (2), said opening and closing device (3) comprising a pourer body (15) associated with an opening and closing cap (16), and cutting means (42) suitable to perforate said flexible container (2) at the time of the first opening of said packaging (1). The invention also regards a method for packaging a food product, in particular in sterile conditions, in a package of the aforesaid type, a flexible container for a package of the aforesaid type as well as a method for producing such container. |
| US09016500B1 |
Cap with multiple functionality
A universal cap to be placed on standard containers for lip balm and lipstick that contains one or more modules that house therein functional items to assist the user for personal health and safety applications. The cap includes modules that contain space for the inclusion of identifying information, interior space for a flashlight and battery, interior space for an audio alarm, an interior space to house medication, a place for a nail file and a place for a glass breaker along with a flange to allow attachment to a lanyard or similar item. |
| US09016497B2 |
Method for forming a package, a package and a package blank
The present invention relates to a method for forming a package by moulding a cardboard blank in such a manner that a margin area (2) of the blank, surrounding a middle portion (1) of the blank, is bent upwards to form side walls of the package while the middle portion forms a bottom of the package. The cardboard blank prior to moulding is provided with at least one area (4) of reduced bending stiffness being located in a transition zone (3) between the side walls and the bottom. The package is moulded from the blank so that the at least one area (4) of reduced bending stiffness is located in the bended areas between the side walls and the bottom and extend in the running direction of the bend. The invention further relates to a package and a package blank that can be used for forming said package. |
| US09016491B2 |
Collapsible cup for hot and cold beverages
A novel cup is disclosed that may be collapsed and extended to hold cold or hot liquids safely. The cup preferably comprises a telescoping body comprising a plurality of rings of varying outer diameters, each ring having an outer wall and an inner wall forming an air gap therebetween, a leak-proof mechanism comprising an O-ring disposed about one or more rings, and a locking mechanism comprising an annular track disposed about one ring, and a pin disposed about another ring adapted to fit within the track and slideably engage it. The locking mechanism may further comprise a first magnet seated within the air gap of a first ring, and a second magnet seated within the air gap of a second ring, whereby the first and second magnets create a magnetic pull toward one another to help keep the cup in either a collapsed or extended position. |
| US09016489B2 |
Circumferential reinforcing groove for container finish
A container including a finish, a sidewall portion, a base portion, and an inwardly directed rib member. The finish has a thread portion and an opening formed by the finish. The sidewall portion extends from the finish. The base portion extends from the sidewall portion and encloses the sidewall portion to form a volume for retaining a commodity. The inwardly directed rib member is disposed circumferentially about the finish. |
| US09016485B1 |
Combination rack structure
A combination rack structure includes a predetermined number of support plates, connecting strips and side frames. Each of the support plates has a rectangular shape. Each of the connecting strips is provided with three holding grooves each longitudinally extended through each of the connecting strips. Each of the connecting strips has a periphery provided with elongate recessed portions each located between any two of the holding grooves. Each of the recessed portions is provided with a plurality of extensions which are perpendicular to an axial direction of each of the recessed portions and are spaced from each other with a proper interval. The extensions are used for holding and resting. Each of the side frames is bent to have a hexagonal shape. The support plates are combined with the connecting strips to construct a hexagonal rack. |
| US09016483B2 |
Dual plane self-adjusting shelf
An apparatus for storing and displaying packages. The invention discloses a self-adjusting shelf comprising a sled coupled to a track, and at least two product supports located in a plane above the track. The product supports are aligned substantially parallel to the track and are coupled to the track. Packages rest upon the product supports. The sled slides along the length of the track. The sled urges, via either gravity or a biasing device, the sled forward against downstream packages. Thus, when one package is removed, the sled forces the remaining packages to the front of the shelf. |
| US09016480B2 |
Multi-cyclone sediment filter
A multi-cyclone sediment filter having a housing with upper and lower shells and defining an interior space for fluid flow. A cyclone holder is disposed in the housing and includes a plurality of fluid cyclones, each comprising a conical tube with a small opening at a lower end and a larger opening at an upper end. A fluid inlet introduces fluid into the filter housing. A fluid outlet in fluid discharges fluid. A manifold plate is disposed above the cyclone holder and includes a plurality of diffuser tubes, each extending downwardly into an upper end of one of the fluid cyclones. Fluid flowing from the fluid inlet is directed into a diverter cone under the manifold plate and is diverted outwardly between the manifold plate and the cyclone holder, into the fluid cyclones, outwardly through the diffuser tubes, and then out through the fluid outlet. |
| US09016476B2 |
Handling portions
The invention relates to a method of handling portions comprising a respective at least one slice, wherein the slices have been produced by slicing food products, wherein the portions are conveyed, in particular line-wise, one after the other in a main conveying stream along a conveying direction, wherein incomplete portions, in particular portions low in weight, are automatically recognized and/or classified, wherein incomplete portions are expelled from the main conveying stream and are supplied to a correction station in a correction stream, wherein incomplete portions are respectively completed by at least one single slice which is removed from a slice store with the aid of an automatic transfer unit and wherein completed portions are automatically channeled back into the main conveying stream. |
| US09016475B2 |
Paper-made packing box with shock-absorbing device
A packing box comprises a peripheral portion and two end portions are respectively connected to two ends of the peripheral portion. A shock-absorbing device has two support members located on the two ends of the peripheral portion, and the two support members each are bent to be a U-shaped member and linearly movable toward the end portion corresponding thereto. At least one positioning portion is connected to each of the support members so as to retain an object. The object can be moved with the support members so as to absorb the vibration and impacts. |
| US09016471B2 |
Toothbrush including kit for decorating said toothbrush
A kit for decorating a toothbrush includes the toothbrush having a base portion, and at least one decorative band sized to fit around the outer perimeter of the base portion of the toothbrush. A second embodiment of the kit includes the toothbrush, a writing instrument and an area designated on the base portion for marking with the writing instrument. A third embodiment of the kit includes the toothbrush, a writing instrument, an area designated on the base portion for marking with the writing implement and at least one decorative band sized to fit around the outer perimeter of the base portion of the toothbrush. Any of the kits may include at least one sticker sized to fit on the base portion of the toothbrush. Any of the kits may also include a panel including one or more stickers and/or one or more decorative bands. |
| US09016470B2 |
Closing device for a container and container comprising said closing device
A device for closing a container, in which to contain a first component to be introduced into the container in addition to a second component, comprising a tank for the first component, a mobile thruster by means of which to determine the opening of the tank, a closing portion stably associated with the tank and provided with closing means able to cooperate with a neck of the container to determine a releasable clamping. The closing portion houses slidingly inside it at least a part of the mobile thruster and has an opening for the passage of the mobile thruster toward the tank. The mobile thruster is selectively mobile between a first raised position of non-interference with the tank and a second lowered position in which it determines the opening of the tank to allow the passage of the first component inside the container. The mobile thruster is made by molding in a single piece with the closing portion, defining a profile of preferential breakage connecting said mobile thruster and said closing portion. A safety element is also provided, made in a single piece both with respect to said mobile thruster and also with respect to the closing portion, to prevent an accidental reciprocal movement of said mobile thruster with respect to said closing portion. |
| US09016469B2 |
Gift card carriers
The invention pertains to improved gift card carriers. More particularly, a first aspect pertains to a gift card carrier that also operates as a greeting card. In a first folded configuration, the gift card carrier presents the gift card for purchase. In a second folded configuration, the gift card carrier acts like a greeting card that encloses the gift card, and possibly supplies a greeting or message. A second aspect pertains to a gift card carrier with a depression for receiving a gift card therein. The depression may make the gift card appear as if its flush mounted within a panel of the gift card carrier. A third aspect pertains to a gift card carrier with an image of hardware device that includes a display, and a gift card that includes an image associated with the hardware device. The gift card is positioned over the display region of the hardware device image making it appear as if the gift card is the display, and the image thereon is being displayed. |
| US09016467B2 |
Conveyor
A conveyor of the articulated chain type for transporting products, includes a mounting frame for elements for supporting and guiding a conveyor belt. The conveyor belt includes a plurality of links forming elements for supporting the product and articulated connected to each other, each link having a first and a second plurality of longitudinal protrusions which extend in opposite longitudinal directions and which are transversally spaced from each other so as to form respective spaces for receiving the longitudinal protrusions of an adjacent link. The link includes a perpendicular protuberance forming elements for engaging and sliding against a transversal centering surface of guide elements in a curved stretch of the belt and a transversal protuberance extending laterally of the link and forming elements for engagement and sliding relative to a perpendicular longitudinal retaining surface of the guide elements, retaining elements for keeping a connecting pin inserted between adjacent links. |
| US09016465B2 |
Conveyor belt arrangement including a conveyor belt having a hybrid conductor loop
A conveyor belt has a carrying side cover plate and a running side cover plate each of a polymer material having elastic properties. The conveyor belt defines a conveyor belt longitudinal direction (X) and has an embedded reinforcement and at least one of the cover plates is provided with a hybrid conductor loop. The hybrid conductor loop communicates in a contactless manner with an interrogation station in the form of a transmitter/receiver pair. The hybrid conductor loop has a flattened conductor cross section and runs in the conveyor belt obliquely at an angle (α) relative to the conveyor belt transverse direction (Y) to form a diagonal direction (Z). The transverse direction (Y) is at right angles to the longitudinal direction (X). The arrangement of the transmitter/receiver pair is adapted to the diagonal direction (Z) to so increase the mutual spacing of the transmitter and the receiver. |
| US09016464B2 |
Tilting multiplier
A tilting carrier assembly for a finishing process includes a load bar configured to convey a work piece relative to a work station. A skid is configured to receive the work piece. Each of a pair of links is pivotally coupled to the load bar at a first end and pivotally coupled to the skid at an opposite second end. A horizontal span between the first ends of the pair of links is substantially greater than a horizontal span between the second ends of the pair of links. |
| US09016459B2 |
Device for buffering molded parts in a beverage filling plant
A device for buffering molded parts in a beverage filling plant, and in one embodiment, for buffering container closures in a beverage filling plant, is described. The device has an intake and an outlet, between which a buffer surface for buffering the molded parts is disposed. The buffer surface is rotatably disposed. |
| US09016457B2 |
Medium storage and feeding device and medium processing device
A medium storage and feeding device and a medium processing device that may prevent occurrences of faults more reliably than the related art. A drum (21) is provided that winds up a banknote BL nipped by pairs of tapes (28L, 28R, 30L and 30R) together with the pairs of tapes. Torque limiters (25L, 25R, 27L and 27R) are separately provided at each of tape reels (24L, 24R, 26L and 26R). The torque limiters control torques between the tape reels and reel rotation axle shafts (22 and 23), such that tensions applied to the tapes between the tape reels (24L, 24R, 26L and 26R) and the drum (21) are constant. Thus, tensions on the tapes between the respective tape reels and the drum may be kept constant, banknote nipping stability may be improved, and occurrences of faults may be prevented more reliably than in the related art. |
| US09016452B2 |
Device for generating limit torque with function of yielding torque change in real time
A device for generating limit torque with a function of yielding a torque change in real time includes a spring, a rotating portion having a cam surface formed therein, a transmitting portion transmitting an elastic force of the spring to the cam surface, a fixed portion with respect to which the relative rotation of the rotating portion is generated, and a limit-torque control portion provided to the fixed portion so as to control limit torque of the rotating portion by adjusting the elastic force of the spring. In the device, the limit-torque control portion controls the limit torque of the spring by changing the elastic force of the spring in real time. |
| US09016449B1 |
Briefcase and backpack luggage
The briefcase and backpack luggage includes a housing that may carry a plurality of items. The housing comprises a case portion of the housing that may store the items. A folder portion of the housing is coupled to the case portion of the housing. The folder portion of the housing may store items. A handle is coupled to the housing. The handle may be gripped. A strap is coupled to the housing. The strap may be positionable on the user so the housing is retained on the user. |
| US09016447B2 |
Piston for a damping-adjustable shock-absorber, particularly for a vehicle suspension, provided with four passive flow-control valves and with a flow-dividing solenoid valve
A piston (10) comprises a first pair of passive flow-control valves (18, 20) [namely, a first compensation valve (18) and a first rebound valve (20)], a second pair of passive flow-control valves (22, 24) [namely, a second compensation valve (22) and a second rebound valve (24)], and a flow-dividing solenoid valve (14) shiftable between a first operating position [in which it allows flow of a damping fluid between an upper chamber and a lower chamber of a shock absorber through the first pair of passive flow-control valves (18, 20) and second pair of passive flow-control valves (22, 24)] and a second operating position [in which it allows the flow of the damping fluid between the upper chamber and lower chamber through only the second pair of passive flow-control valves (22, 24)]. The solenoid valve (14) is normally open (i.e., it is normally kept in the first operating position). |
| US09016445B2 |
Light-weight and sound-damped brake rotor and method of manufacturing the same
A light-weight and sound-damped brake rotor for a vehicle braking system includes a rotor hat and a rotor cheek supported by the rotor hat. The rotor hat includes an axially-protruding central hub and a flange that extends radially from and circumferentially around the central hub. The rotor cheek, which provides at least one braking surface, is formed from two or more separate and distinct pieces which are fixedly secured to the flange of the rotor hat. Located within the rotor cheek underneath the at least one braking surface is a vibration damping element. The brake rotor derives its vibration-deadening and sound-damping effects from the vibration damping element through the occurrence of relative frictional contacting movement. |
| US09016444B2 |
Immobilizer for a transport trolley
The invention relates to an immobilizer for a transport trolley, whereby a magnetic field is used for alternately activating and deactivating said immobilizer. In an embodiment of the invention, the deactivating magnetic field can be weaker than the activating magnetic field. |
| US09016441B2 |
Linear stopper
A linear stopper including a stopper body having an inclined surface with a wedge-like space between the inclined surface and a surface of the guide member with a gap decreasing gradually toward one side of an extending direction of the guide member; rolling elements that are arranged in the wedge-like space so as to be rollable therein; and rolling element pressing means that presses the rolling elements in a direction to bite into the wedge-like space, so that the rolling elements are forced into pressure contact with the surface of the guide member and the inclined surface of the stopper body. A one-way stopper mechanism restricts the relative movement of the stopper body with respect to the guide member toward a side at which the gap in the wedge-like space is large, but allows the relative movement toward a side at which the gap in the wedge-like space is small. |
| US09016439B2 |
Elevator hoisting machine braking apparatus
A braking apparatus main body has: a movable body; and an electromagnetic actuator that displaces the movable body in a direction of contact with and separation from a rotating body that is rotated relative to a hoisting machine main body. An adjusting collar is screwed into an adjusting threaded aperture disposed on the electromagnetic actuator. The adjusting collar is disposed between the hoisting machine main body and the electromagnetic actuator. The electromagnetic actuator is mounted to the hoisting machine main body by a mounting device in a state in which the hoisting machine main body bears the adjusting collar. A position of the braking apparatus main body relative to the hoisting machine main body is adjusted in a direction in which a distance between the electromagnetic actuator and the rotating body changes by adjusting an amount of thread engagement of the adjusting collar in the adjusting threaded aperture. |
| US09016431B2 |
Load balancing descending device
A load balancing descending device for controlling the descent of a user descending on a rope carrying a load is provided. The rope has a decreasing rope free end as the user descends. The load balancing descending device comprises a first plate and a second plate. A first pin is positioned between the first plate and the second plate with the first pin spacing the first plate from and pivotally connecting the first plate to the second plate and the combined first plate and second plate having a first side and a second side. A second pin is positioned between the first plate and the second plate with the second pin spaced from the first pin. An attachment mechanism is formed in the first side of the combined first plate and second plate for attaching a user and/or load. The rope is wrapped in a serpentine manner about the first pin and the second pin between the first plate and the second plate with the rope free end exiting the combined first plate and second plate from the second side. As the user descends the rope, the length and weight of the rope free end decreases thereby causing the load balancing descending device to rotate moving the rope free end in a general direction from the first side toward the second side and automatically balancing the weight of the user and load against the weight of the rope free end in order to maintain a controlled rate of descent. |
| US09016428B2 |
Work vehicle and wheel loader
A work vehicle includes an engine, an exhaust gas post-processing device, an engine room and a partitioning member. The exhaust gas post-processing device includes a diesel particulate filtering device, a selective catalyst reduction device, a connecting pipe connecting the diesel particulate filtering and the selective catalyst reduction device, and an injection device configured to inject a reducing agent into the connecting pipe. The engine room accommodates the engine and the exhaust gas post-processing device. The partitioning member includes a first partition part disposed between the injection device and the diesel particulate filtering device, and a second partition part disposed between the injection device and the selective catalyst reduction device. |
| US09016426B2 |
Exhaust treatment unit
An exhaust treatment unit treats an exhaust gas from an engine of a work vehicle. The exhaust treatment unit includes a first exhaust treatment device, a second exhaust treatment device, and a bracket. The first exhaust treatment device and the second exhaust treatment device are attached to the bracket. The bracket includes an edge part having an attachment portion configured to be attached to a vehicle body frame of the work vehicle, and a main body part having a convex shape downwardly bulged from the edge part. A bottom part of the second exhaust treatment device is positioned below the attachment portion. A work vehicle preferably includes the exhaust treatment unit, the engine and the vehicle body frame. |
| US09016420B1 |
Continuously variable transmission mounting assembly
A snowmobile has a frame with an engine compartment and a tunnel, a front suspension, at least one ski, an engine, a bracket having a first portion joined to the engine and a second portion having an aperture defined therein, an output shaft, a countershaft passing through the aperture, a motion decoupler disposed around the countershaft and being supported by the second portion of the bracket, the countershaft being rotationally supported in the motion decoupler, a driving pulley disposed on the output shaft, a driven pulley disposed on the countershaft, a drive belt looped around the driving and driven pulleys, and an endless drive track. The driving pulley, the driven pulley and the drive belt together form a continuously variable transmission. |
| US09016418B2 |
Construction machine
A right front housing cover is arranged in the right side of a working mechanism, and a first control valve is arranged in a front portion side of a valve accommodation room that is covered with the right front housing cover. Further, a signal control valve block is arranged in the back side of the first control valve and in the upper side of the first control valve, and a solenoid valve is arranged in the back side of the signal control valve block. A front surface plate forming part of the right front housing cover has a lower side is inclined in an oblique downward direction toward the forward side, and is arranged along a virtual line that extends in an oblique downward direction through a front end portion of the first control valve and a front end portion of the signal control valve block. |
| US09016412B2 |
Duct to influence air cooling distribution to battery module and DC/DC module
A vehicle is provided including a battery module, a DC/DC converter module portioned from the battery module, a duct, one blower, and a jumper duct. The battery module includes inlet and outlet ports. The DC/DC converter module includes inlet and outlet ports. A duct is arranged to direct cooling air into each of the inlet ports. The blower is arranged to draw cooling air from the duct, through the modules, and out the outlet ports. The jumper duct is arranged up stream of the blower with the converter outlet port, and configured to reduce an effective cross sectional area of the converter outlet port to define a flow rate of the cooling air into the battery inlet port. |
| US09016410B2 |
Controller and control method for a motorised vehicle
The technology disclosed relates to a controller and a control method for a motorized vehicle, and in particular to the control of a motorized vehicle having at least a left wheel and a right wheel, the left wheel being driven by a left motor and the right wheel being driven by a right motor. In accordance with such motorized vehicles, linear motion of the vehicle is typically effected by driving the left motor and the right motor in the same direction, while spinning of the vehicle is typically effected by driving the left motor and the right motor in opposite directions. A typical example of such a motorized vehicle is an electric wheelchair. |
| US09016409B2 |
Rolling cutter placement on PDC bits
A cutting tool cutting tool may include a tool body having a plurality of blades extending radially therefrom; and a plurality of rotatable cutting elements mounted on at least one of the plurality of blades, wherein the plurality of rotatable cutting elements are mounted on the at least one blade in a nose and/or shoulder region of the cutting tool at a side rake angle ranging from about 10 to about 30 degrees or −10 to about −30 degrees. |
| US09016407B2 |
Drill bit cutting structure and methods to maximize depth-of-cut for weight on bit applied
A drill bit for drilling a borehole in earthen formations comprises a bit body including a cone region, a shoulder region, and a gage region. In addition the bit comprises a first primary blade and a second primary blade. Further, the bit comprises a plurality of primary cutter elements mounted to the first primary blade in different radial positions. Still further, the bit comprises a plurality of primary cutter elements mounted to the second primary blade in different radial positions. Moreover, a first primary cutter element of the plurality of primary cutter elements on the first primary blade and a first primary cutter element of the plurality of primary cutter elements on the second primary blade are each positioned in the cone region and are redundant. The shoulder region has a total cutter redundancy percentage that is less than a total cutter redundancy percentage in the cone region. |
| US09016405B2 |
Bearing assemblies, apparatuses, and related methods of manufacture
In an embodiment, a bearing assembly may include a support ring to which one or more superhard bearing elements may be mounted. The support ring may include one or more relief features configured to reduce residual stresses in the superhard bearing elements that are induced by brazing the superhard bearing elements to the support ring, operational loads, other processes, or combinations of the foregoing. Reducing the residual stresses in the superhard bearing elements may help prevent damage to the superhard bearing elements. The bearing assembly may be used in subterranean drilling systems and/or other types of systems. |
| US09016399B2 |
Apparatus and methods for lithology and mineralogy determinations
A well bore is drilled in the formation. Cuttings are retrieved from the well bore while drilling the formation and a hyperspectral image of the cuttings is continuously obtained. The hyperspectral image of the cuttings is analyzed to determine formation characteristics. |
| US09016395B2 |
Impact tool
An impact tool includes a housing, a motor supported in the housing and defining a first axis, an output shaft rotatably supported in the housing about a second axis oriented substantially normal to the first axis, and an impact mechanism coupled between the motor and the output shaft and operable to impart a striking rotational force to the output shaft. |
| US09016394B2 |
Power tool
A power tool includes a drive motor and at least one auxiliary device, which is coupled to the drive motor, for activating at least two different operating states. The drive motor and the at least one auxiliary device are controllable using at least one operating device. The output of the drive motor is changed when the at least one auxiliary device is activated. As a result, the operating forces are reduced when switching between operating states, and the load on components is reduced. |
| US09016392B2 |
Fire suppression system with improved two-phase flow distribution
A two-phase liquid/inert gas flow inerting fire suppression system is provided having improved liquid fire suppressant distribution within the inert gas flow. The system includes a flow distribution network having a first pipe interconnected with a second pipe at a flow splitting tee. A liquid flow redistribution device is disposed in the first pipe upstream with respect to fluid flow of the flow splitting tee. |
| US09016387B2 |
Pressure equalization apparatus and associated systems and methods
A pressure equalization apparatus can include separate longitudinal bores which form a continuous flowpath, the flowpath alternating direction between the bores, and the bores being interconnected at opposite ends thereof. A well system can include a well tool with a chamber therein containing an assembly in a dielectric fluid, and a pressure equalization apparatus including a flowpath having one end connected to the chamber, and the other end connected to a source of a another fluid, the flowpath extending in opposite directions between the flowpath ends through multiple separate bores. A method of installing a well tool can include attaching a mandrel to the well tool, then lowering the well tool at least partially into the well suspended from the mandrel, and then securing a pressure equalization apparatus to the mandrel, a flowpath of the apparatus being connected to a chamber of the well tool containing an assembly. |
| US09016384B2 |
Disintegrable centralizer
A system including a first component, a second component disposed radially adjacent to the first component, and a centralizer disposed between the first component and the second component for at least partially filling a radial clearance between the first component and the second component. The centralizer is formed at least partially from a disintegrable material responsive to a selected fluid. A method of completing a borehole is also included. |
| US09016382B2 |
Offshore drilling rig fingerboard latch position indication
A fingerboard latch assembly includes a latch configured for operational engagement with a fingerboard for lockingly retaining at least one tubular to the fingerboard. The latch is movable within a range of motion extending from at least a locked position to an unlocked position. A positioner operatively engaged with the latch is communicably couplable to a process control network (PCN), and is sized and shaped for receipt within a latch channel of the fingerboard. The positioner is configured to move the latch within the range of motion in response to signals received from the PCN, to capture position data for the latch, including the position of the latch at a plurality of points within the range of motion, and to communicate the captured position data to the PCN. |
| US09016379B2 |
Method of fracing a wellbore
A method of fracing a wellbore includes sealing a tubular within a wellbore at two locations and defining an annular space between the tubular, the wellbore and two seals. The method further includes opening at least two ports providing fluidic communication between an inside of the tubular and the annular space, flowing fluid from inside the tubular to the annular space through a first of the at least two ports while flowing fluid from the annular space to inside of the tubular through a second of the at least two ports, closing the second of the at least two ports, and pressuring the annular space through the first of the at least two ports. |
| US09016375B2 |
Breaking diutan with oxalic acid at 180° F to 220° F
A method of treating a portion of a well of a well. The method includes the step of forming a treatment fluid comprising: (i) a continuous aqueous phase; (ii) a viscosity increasing agent selected from the group consisting of diutan, clarified diutan, water-soluble derivative of diutan, and any combination thereof, wherein the viscosity-increasing agent is dissolved in the aqueous phase; and (iii) a breaker comprising oxalic acid, wherein the oxalic acid is dissolved in the aqueous phase. The viscosity of the treatment fluid breaks to less than 3.0 cP in less than 72 hours when in a temperature range of 180° F. (82.2° C.) to 220° F. (104.4° C.). The method also includes the steps of introducing the treatment fluid into the portion of the well and flowing back from the portion of the well. |
| US09016374B2 |
Heat removal in drilling and production operations
Working fluids, such as drilling fluids, may remove heat from other fluids, tools, equipments and environments and transfer it to other locations by using reversible phase change elements. The heat removal occurs through the absorption of heat by one or more phase transitions or a sequence of phase transitions in the elements of the working fluid. For instance, heat is absorbed when the phase change portions of the reversible phase change elements change phase including, but not necessarily limited to, a change from solid to smectic liquid crystal, from solid to nematic liquid crystal, from smectic liquid crystal to isotropic liquid, from nematic liquid crystal to isotropic liquid, from solid to isotropic liquid, and sequences and combinations thereof. Heat is released when the phase change reverses. These phase changes are first-order transitions and are associated with a latent heat or enthalpy. |
| US09016372B2 |
Method for single trip fluid isolation
A completion system for arrangement in a borehole including a lower completion, an upper completion string, and an intermediate assembly engaged between the lower completion and the upper completion string. The intermediate assembly includes a single barrier valve only. The barrier valve is operatively arranged to be transitionable to an open position when engaged with the upper completion string and transitions to a closed position via the upper completion string when the upper completion string is pulled out of the borehole. |
| US09016371B2 |
Flow rate dependent flow control device and methods for using same in a wellbore
An apparatus for performing a wellbore operation, such as a gravel packing, includes a tool body, a flow passage formed in the tool body, the flow passage connecting a first space with a second space; and a flow control device positioned along the flow space. The flow control device may include a valve element configured to allow uni-directional; and a flow control element configured to allow flow in bi-directional flow. The valve element and the flow control element may be arranged to form a split flow path between the first space and the second space. |
| US09016369B2 |
Downhole piston accumulator system
A downhole piston accumulator system is disclosed, such as for a formation tester. The soft piston of the system is designed to withstand high pressure downhole fluids in small volume cylinders, the fluid being collected for optical fluid identification or other analyses. The temperature range of the fluid may vary widely, which can be accommodated by the soft piston. Sealing components on the soft piston include additional materials for sealing the soft piston and otherwise helping to accommodate the wide ranging pressures and temperatures. The piston container or cylinder is designed to properly capture the piston and accommodate piston movement. The piston accumulator system allows an outer or exterior position sensor to detect piston movement, such as by a magnetic sensor. |
| US09016368B2 |
Tubing conveyed multiple zone integrated intelligent well completion
A system for use with a well having multiple zones can include multiple well screens which filter fluid flowing between a tubing string and respective ones of the zones, at least one optical waveguide which senses at least one property of the fluid as it flows between the tubing string and at least one of the zones, multiple flow control devices which variably restrict flow of the fluid through respective ones of the well screens, and multiple pressure sensors which sense pressure of the fluid which flows through respective ones of the well screens. A tubing string for use in a subterranean well can include at least one well screen, at least one flow control device which selectively prevents and permits substantially unrestricted flow through the well screen, and at least one other flow control device which is remotely operable, and which variably restricts flow through the well screen. |
| US09016355B2 |
Compound type heat exchanger
In a compound type heat exchanger, a first heat exchanger includes a pair of tanks arranged a certain distance apart from each other and a core part having tubes and fins that are alternately piled up between the pair of tanks. One of the pair of tanks is composed of a plurality of divided bodies that are connected along a longitudinal direction of the one of the pair of tanks. One of the plurality of divided bodies is provided with an accommodation portion that projects outwardly to communicate with the one of the plurality of divided bodies. A second heat exchanger is arranged in the accommodation portion through an opening portion of the accommodation portion, which is provided with an input port. Heat is exchanged between an intake air of the first heat exchanger that flows in the accommodation portion and a coolant of the second heat exchanger. |
| US09016351B2 |
Preheating device for a fluid/fluid heat exchanger of an aircraft
An aircraft includes a heat exchanger between a first fluid that flows into the narrow pipes of the exchanger and that is able to contain solid elements that can melt, and, a second fluid to be cooled. The heat exchanger includes a device for preheating the first fluid upstream from the pipes of the exchanger, a number of pipes arranged in at least one plane that intersects the direction of flow of the first fluid, whereby the spacing between two adjacent pipes is suitable for retaining the solid elements of large dimensions and for allowing them to pass only when they have melted at least partially. |
| US09016350B2 |
Clean metal ingot mold
A clean metal ingot mold comprises an ingot mold body and an insulating riser arranged on the ingot mold body. The bottom mold plate of the ingot mold is provided with at least a ridge connected thereto. The region having a V-shape containing impurities produced during the crystallization process of the liquid metal moves upwards because of the ridge, and then the impurities depart from the center of the cast ingot and the impurities are more centralized. A water-cooling device is arranged in the ridge to allow the temperature of the metal in the ingot mold to decrease rapidly, and the crystallization process of the metal to be rapid. |
| US09016349B2 |
Customizable drapery system and method
A drapery system for forming a window drapery of user-selected length. The system includes first and second drapery sections and at least one fastener for selectively and overlappingly attaching the drapery sections without stitching or sewing. A method of forming a drapery of user-selectable length is also provided. |
| US09016347B2 |
Looped-cord system for window coverings
A looped-cord system includes a beaded cord having a set of beads connected in series to form a loop with a space between each pair of adjacent beads. In one embodiment a stop sized to fit within the space between a pair of adjacent beads is attached to a housing. A resilient finger located opposite the stop pushes a portion of the beaded cord adjacent to and not engaging the sprocket against the stop so the stop is within a space between a pair of adjacent beads, thereby preventing movement of the cord loop. Applying tension to the cord loop overcomes the resilient finger and moves the cord away from the stop enabling movement of the cord loop. In another embodiment a key engages the sprocket preventing the sprocket from turning until tension is applied to the cord loop by proper installation of the tensioner on the cord loop. |
| US09016345B2 |
Rotary lamination apparatus
A rotary lamination apparatus has a die assembly rotatable about an axis and a mounting table received in an axial hole extending through the die assembly. Through rotation of the die assembly, punched core pieces are mounted on the mounting table while being rotatively offset. A drive mechanism is employed to rotate the mounting table integrally with the die assembly about the axis of the die assembly. |
| US09016344B2 |
Laminator table
The present application provides a laminator table, wherein the table comprises a table top (8) with two opposite and parallel side edges (7), a horizontal guide rail (6) parallel to and at each of said side edges, and a roller (2) arranged above the table top, each horizontal guide rail (6) comprises a raising/lowering device (1) having a first and a second end, the first end connected to one of the two ends of the roller (2), the second end is connected to the horizontal guide rail (6), the raising/lowering device (1) is horizontally moveable along the guide rail (6) to which it is connected, wherein each raising/lowering device (1) comprises at least an attachment (4) for a wire (3), belt or chain, and that the raising/lowering devices (1) are connected via one or several wires (3,3′), belts or chains connected to said attachments (4) by a system of pulleys (5) or gears, wherein the pulleys (5) or gears are situated such that the wire (3,3′), belt or chain, at movement in a horizontal direction of a first raising/lowering device (1), will transfer force from said first raising/lowering device (1) to the second raising/lowering device and pull this second raising/lowering device in the same horizontal direction as the first. |
| US09016343B2 |
Device for welding a tubular lining of a wastewater pipe
An apparatus for welding a tubular lining of a wastewater pipe includes a retainer for the butt-jointed longitudinal edges, which are to be welded, of a plastic panel bent to form a pipe, and a welding apparatus. The retainer includes one respective clamping device for each edge formed by a stationary clamping bar on the outside of the pipe and a movable clamping bar on the inside of the pipe which is connected to an actuating drive. The stationary clamping bars are located opposite of one another with respect to the butt joint between the two longitudinal edges while leaving a gap open. At least one of the two movable clamping bars forms a stop for one longitudinal edge of the plastic panel in a position placed against the associated stationary clamping bar. A guide is provided along the gap between the stationary clamping bars for the welding device. |
| US09016334B2 |
Aseptic connector for a free-flowing food
A reusable aseptic connector is provided. The connector may be used to provide fluid communication between a bag-in-box (BIB) container and a beverage dispenser. The connector may provide aseptic properties of the connection by insulation of an inner volume of a first part and an inner volume of a second part, with the beverage component kept from contacting any of the part of the connector structure that are exposed to the environment and have a risk of induced contamination. The connector may comprise a resilient membrane and a sliding tube wherein the sliding tube is configured to have a portion move toward and through the resilient membrane to establish fluid communication between the first part and the second part, and for the portion to move away from the resilient membrane to destablish fluid communication between the first part and the second part when desired. |
| US09016332B2 |
Method and apparatus for safety-compliant emptying and filling of a reagent container
An apparatus for safety-compliant emptying and filling of a reagent container (24, 40) for a tissue processor (20) comprises a suction line (30, 42) for aspirating a reagent out of the reagent container (24, 40) and a delivery line (32, 44) for filling the reagent container (24, 40) with the reagent, a terminating opening (31, 43) of the suction line (30, 42) being spaced away from a terminating opening (33, 45) of the delivery line (32, 44). |
| US09016323B2 |
Pipeline regeneration pipe
A pipeline regeneration pipe, with which necessary strength can be ensured by way of the inserted regeneration pipe itself without the necessity of grouting, includes an inner wound flexible resin layer 5d which constitutes the inner layer of a straight pipe part 5b, an outer wound flexible resin layer 5e laminated on the outer surface of the inner wound flexible resin layer and constitutes the outer layer of the straight pipe part, and a protruded rim part 5c helically formed on the outer surface of the outer wound flexible resin layer, the protruded rim part 5c being configured by a rigid-resin core 5g helically wound, and a core-covering part 5f integrated with the outer wound flexible resin layer so as to surround the rigid-resin core. |
| US09016322B2 |
Device for renovating a pipe
The invention relates to a device (1) for renovating a pipe, the latter being provided with at least one opening arranged in the wall of the pipe, said device (1) having a base unit (2) that can be introduced into the pipe, a clearing unit (3) that is movable relative to the base unit (2), and an electronic sensor arrangement for detecting the instantaneous position of the clearing unit (3) relative to the base unit (2). To make available a novel device (1) for renovating a pipe provided with at least one opening arranged in the wall of the pipe, which device permits reliable and inexpensive repair of the pipe, the invention proposes that at least one electronic inclination sensor is arranged on the base unit (2). |
| US09016321B1 |
Deployable culvert plug system
The invention is a deployable culvert plug system having an elongated handle assembly with a hollow conduit, a distal end with a junction block in fluid communication with the conduit and a hinge assembly having a handle mounting plate, and a proximal end having a handle and a gas control valve for retaining a removable gas cylinder containing a pressurized gas. The gas control valve has valve trigger which selectively applies pressurized gas to the conduit. A bladder assembly having a bladder mounting plate is removably connected to the handle mounting plate, a bladder is attached to the bladder mounting plate, a check valve assembly allows pressurized gas to enter the bladder, and a hose selectively connects the check valve assembly to the junction block. |
| US09016310B2 |
Automatic water shut-off valve for low pressure
An automatic water shut-off valve for low pressure includes: a body having a nipple formed at a lower portion thereof; a rubber diaphragm inserted into a protruding threaded pipe formed at an outside portion of the body; and a pressure supporter pressurizing the rubber diaphragm, wherein the pressure supporter has a drain hole and the fixing cap has a cap drain hole, so that the fluid is drained through a fluid flow hole of the rubber diaphragm in the case of compressible air fluid or at pressure lower than set pressure and is stopped when the fluid switching face of the rubber diaphragm is grounded to a fluid stop protrusion of the pressure supporter in the case of incompressible fluid or at pressure higher than set pressure. |
| US09016300B1 |
Articulated sun shade apparatus
An articulated sun shade apparatus including a fan member disposed endwise upon an elongate telescopic arm portion, said arm portion rotationally connected at a first pivot point slidingly securable along the length of an elongate base portion, wherein said arm portion is securable between a stowed position, disposed in contact and parallel with the base portion, and a deployed position, pivoted away from said base portion, whereby the fan member is moveable between a collapsed situation and a flared situation to position a plurality of blade members adjacently within a circular section appropriate to cast shade with precision, as desired. |
| US09016297B2 |
Wheeled support cane
The present invention is a quad-wheeled and quad-legged cane. The cane typically includes one or more wheels, one or more rigid supporting structures, and one or more handles. The wheels of the cane are preferably retractable. The rigid support structures preferably overhang the wheels and generally provides fail-safe braking. The handles may be adjustable. |
| US09016294B2 |
Unit of washing for machine of cleaning of ophthalmic glasses or other substrates
A washing unit for machines that clean ophthalmic glass (1) or other substrates. It includes, on one hand, two washing lines (22, 23), each able to issue a high-pressure jet of washing liquid in a flared shape of a width substantially equal to or greater than the diameter of the glass to be cleaned, said lines (22, 23) being parallel and mounted opposite each other on each side of the glass (1) to be cleaned so that the two streams of liquid (30) are located at the same level and come into contact on the concave (10) and convex (11) surfaces respectively of said glass (1); and, on the other hand, supports (4) intended to hold the glass (1) in a stable position during the washing operation and the means (2′) to allow movement of said lines (22, 23) or the glass (1) in order to perform simultaneous bathing of the concave (10) and convex (11) surfaces of the glass by the respective strains of washing liquid (30). |
| US09016291B2 |
System for storing and dispensing liquid cleaning additive for a high-pressure cleaning appliance
A system for storing and dispensing a liquid cleaning additive for a high-pressure cleaning appliance has a device for storing the cleaning additive and a device for dispensing the cleaning additive in a controlled manner. In order to develop the system such that it is easier to handle, it is proposed that the storage device has an intermediate tank, which is fixedly held on the high-pressure cleaning appliance, and an independently handlable refill container for filling the intermediate tank, it being possible for liquid cleaning additive to be withdrawn in a controlled manner from said intermediate tank by means of the dispensing device, it being possible for the refill container to be secured on the high-pressure cleaning appliance and to be flow-connected to the intermediate tank, cleaning additive flowing automatically out of the refill container into the intermediate tank upon withdrawal of cleaning additive from the intermediate tank, in order to maintain a predetermined liquid level in the intermediate tank. A refill container for such a system and also a high-pressure cleaning appliance having such a system are also proposed. |
| US09016289B2 |
System and method for reducing particles and marks on wafer surface following reactor processing
In one embodiment, a cleaning chamber is provided. The cleaning chamber has a base portion housing a first chuck, a top portion housing a plurality of cups, and a middle portion functioning as a lid for the base portion and a second chuck for the top portion. A rail couples the top portion and the middle portion, wherein the top portion is rigidly mounted to the rail, while the middle portion is slidably mounted to the rail. A support frame is rigidly mounted to the base portion, the support frame being pivotably affixed to the rail, wherein the rail maintains a vertical alignment between the top portion and the middle portion as the rail pivots. |
| US09016288B2 |
Mascara system with thickening benefits
A mascara system comprising, in combination: (a) a mascara applicator comprising a substantially longitudinal stem having a major axis A and a plurality of protrusions extending therefrom, wherein at least two adjacent protrusions are spaced from one another at a distance R at the base of the stem; (b) a mascara composition comprising primary particles that are at least about 5 microns in equivalent diameter; and (c) a dermatologically acceptable carrier. The mascara applicator is a molded applicator, the distance R is from about 0.75 mm to about 3.0 mm, and at least one of the primary particles is a wax primary particle composed primarily of one or more waxes. |
| US09016286B2 |
Method and equipment for adding tobacco dust into papermaking tobacco sheet
This invention discloses a method for adding tobacco dust in production process of the papermaking tobacco sheet and its equipment. The tobacco dust is added in 5-30% weight at four process points such as the pipeline from the slurry stabilization box to the slurry flow box, the long-net of the papermaking machine, the position from the vacuum couch to the first press, and the coating position on the papermaking machine. This invention adopts a method for adding the tobacco dust in production process of papermaking tobacco sheet, which has well improved its physical performances including the filling capacity of the papermaking tobacco sheet and solved smoking problems of the papermaking tobacco sheet, such as worse inherent quality, heavy stemy note, insipid tobacco aroma and etc. In addition, this method has also offered a good way to well utilize tobacco dust resource in sizes of 2 mm-100 mesh, which is abnegated in cigarette production, to save resource and to reduce the cigarette cost. |
| US09016284B2 |
Sheet material cutting apparatus
A cutting apparatus and an associated method for slitting a tobacco sheet material into cut pieces used to form smoking articles are provided. The cutting apparatus includes a rotatable cutter assembly having a drum member configured to rotate about an axis defined thereby. The cutter assembly includes a plurality of knife members disposed about the periphery of the drum member and extending radially therefrom. A fixed counter-knife assembly is disposed adjacent to the periphery of the drum member and is configured to interact with the rotatable cutter assembly during rotation thereof about the axis. The counter-knife assembly includes a ledger member having a plurality of cutting insert members removably engaged therewith. The cutting insert members are configured to interact with the knife members during rotation of the cutter assembly with respect to the counter-knife assembly so as to slit the tobacco sheet material received therebetween into cut pieces. |
| US09016283B2 |
Backboard for an automated CPR system
A backboard for an automated cardio pulmonary resuscitation system, said backboard comprising a board element, the board element defining a plane and having a top edge, a bottom edge a first side edge and a second side edge; a set of connectors adapted for connection of the backboard to an automated cardio pulmonary resuscitation unit, said connectors being provided at said side edges; and at least one set of stabilizing elements extending away from an edge and transversely to said plane. |
| US09016280B2 |
Intrauterine fallopian tube occlusion device
An intrauterine device for occluding orifices of fallopian tubes includes a resilient body having an elongated member with a first end and a second end. The elongated member further includes a first leg ending with the first end of the elongated member, a second leg ending with the second end of the elongated member and a connection member positioned therebetween. A first orifice plug is secured at the first end of the elongated member and a second orifice plug is secured at the second end of the elongated member. The first and second orifice plugs are shaped and dimensioned to seat at the orifices of the fallopian tubes or within the fallopian tubes as the elongated member spreads outwardly with the first end and second end moving apart. |
| US09016276B2 |
Methods for battery power management of positive airway pressure apparatus
Methods relating to the power management of positive airway pressure apparatus using a battery are disclosed herein. The methods, in various aspects, are adapted to prolong the delivery of a positive airway pressurized therapy when the positive airway pressure apparatus is operated under battery power. |
| US09016271B2 |
Radiation heat collection device
This invention relates to a device that comprises at least one collection unit (11), equipped with a collection tube (21) placed on supports (23), which is formed by an inner absorber tube (31) shaped as a continuous tube and an outer envelope tube (33). The collection unit (11) also comprises reflectors (15) that direct the radiation toward the collection tube (21). Moreover, the device comprises means (41, 43) designed to maintain the collection tube (21) space between the absorber tube (31) and the envelope tube (33) at a pressure of between 5·10−1-5·10−2 mbar. The main advantages of the invention include the reduction in the breaking of glass due to the lower stresses to fatigue, an increase in the effective collection surface (97%-99%) and active management of the vacuum, which makes it possible to monitor the evolution thereof at all times. |
| US09016270B2 |
Window mounting for thermal expansion in an oven appliance
Mounting for a window in an oven appliance is provided so as to allow for thermal expansion during oven use. More particularly, an expansion zone is provided around the window such that, during heating of the window from oven operation, the window is allowed to expand without restraint that could cause cracking or shattering. Space can be allowed for both lateral and longitudinal expansion of the window. |
| US09016268B2 |
Adjustable mechanical vibration limiting and absorbing apparatus
An adjustable mechanical vibration limiting and absorbing device for an archery bow including a hollow housing and two groups of elastomer washers provided in the hollow housing with a means for preventing the first group from advancing out of the hollow housing and separating the first group from the second group. In addition, a fastener extends through the center of the first and second groups of elastomer washers and a lock nut and weight are provided on the projecting end of the fastener. |
| US09016266B2 |
Valve device for an internal combustion engine
A valve device for an internal combustion engine includes a multi-part housing. A drive unit generates a rotational moment. The drive unit is arranged in a motor chamber. A transmission unit is arranged in a transmission chamber. An eccentric is configured to be driven by the transmission unit. A valve rod is configured to be displaceable in translation. The valve rod extends into a valve rod displacement chamber. A coupling element converts a displacement of the eccentric into a translational displacement of the valve rod. A valve seat is arranged between an inlet and an outlet. A valve closing body is attached to the valve rod. The valve closing body is configured to be lowered onto the valve seat and lifted off the valve seat. A cover is disposed between the eccentric and the coupling element. The cover is configured to separate the transmission chamber from the valve rod displacement chamber. |
| US09016263B2 |
High pressure fuel pump
A high pressure fuel pump for use with an internal combustion engine and a method of operation of a high pressure fuel pump are disclosed. The high pressure fuel pump may include a supply chamber and a pump chamber separated by a passage in sealing arrangement with a disk. The disk may have one or more holes therethrough and be rotatable in order to place the holes in the disk in varying degrees of alignment with the passage to allow respective, varying amounts of fuel to flow through the passage. |
| US09016260B2 |
Method and system for adjusting port throttles
An engine system and method for improving engine starting are disclosed. In one example, two engine cylinder port throttles are adjusted differently during engine starting. The system and method may improve engine torque control during an engine start. |
| US09016259B2 |
Process for controlling the combustion of an internal combustion engine with gasoline direct injection, in particular with controlled ignition
A process controls the combustion of an internal combustion engine with controlled ignition and liquid fuel direct injection. The engine includes at least one cylinder with a combustion chamber, at least one intake, at least one exhaust and at least one direct injector for liquid fuel in order to obtain a fuel/air mixture in the combustion chamber.The process includes determining the operational zone of the engine in which particulates are emitted during combustion of the fuel/air mixture and, for operation of the engine in this determined zone, introducing into the combustion chamber another fuel/air mixture resulting from indirect injection of a gaseous fuel. |
| US09016257B2 |
Containment assembly for flowable materials
A combination usable together in an automotive vehicle includes an engine block, a cover, and a band clamp. The engine block includes an opening configured to provide access to an interior volume, a first flange having a periphery that surrounds the opening, and a first engagement surface disposed proximate the first flange. The cover includes a second flange disposed around a periphery of the cover, and a second engagement surface disposed proximate the second flange, the second engagement surface configured to mate with the first engagement surface, wherein when the first engagement surface and the second engagement surface are disposed in engagement with each other the first flange and the second flange in combination define an exterior surface having a first profile. The band clamp includes an interior surface with a second profile that is complementary with the first profile. |
| US09016255B2 |
Sealing of sleeve valves
A sleeve valve with a valve body that at least partially encircles at least one piston that moves in a reciprocating manner can, at least partially define with the at least one piston a combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine. A valve actuation mechanism can move the sleeve valve between an open position and a closed position to control flow through a port of the internal combustion engine. The sealing edge of the sleeve valve can be urged against a valve seat by an urging force generated by the valve actuation mechanism when the sleeve valve is moved to the closed position. At least one of the sleeve valve and the valve seat can include a valve assistance feature that assists the valve actuation mechanism in resisting forces generated by the internal combustion engine in opposition to the urging force. Related articles, systems, and methods are described. |
| US09016254B2 |
Intake control device
An intake control device includes: an air cleaner disposed above an engine; a pair of right and left intake ducts projecting toward a front of a vehicle body from the air cleaner to take an outside air in the air cleaner; and a sensor unit coupled to a throttle cable extended from a throttle grip, and detecting an operation amount of accelerator, in which the sensor unit is disposed between the pair of right and left intake ducts at a position above the engine and below the air cleaner. |
| US09016250B2 |
Camshaft phaser
An internal combustion includes a crankshaft and a camshaft rotatable by the crankshaft. The internal combustion engine also includes an oil source, an engine cover, and a drive member disposed within the engine cover for transferring rotational motion from the crankshaft to the camshaft. A camshaft phaser actuated by an electric motor is disposed within the engine cover for controllably varying the phase relationship between the crankshaft and the camshaft. A supply passage communicates oil from the oil source to the camshaft phaser in order to lubricate the camshaft phaser and a drain passage drains oil from the camshaft phaser to the oil source. A sealing arrangement defines a dry zone within the engine cover to isolate the drive member from oil used to lubricate the camshaft phaser. |
| US09016247B2 |
Four-cylinder four-stroke engine without a crankshaft and valves
A four-cylinder four-stroke engine contains a base, a gas valve, a holder, a driving device, and a driven assembly, and a seat. When a four-cylinder four-stroke engine operates, a plurality of cylinders push plural pistons in the plurality of cylinders of the driving device so as to drive plural pushing posts connecting with the plural pistons to move upward and downward repeatedly, such that the driven assembly coupling with the plural pushing posts is pushed to drive a rotary shaft to rotate, thus generating a rotational energy, and the driven assembly simultaneously pushes a gear set of the driving device so that the gear set drives the gas valve on the base to rotate 360 degrees to feed and exhaust gases in the base, such that the plurality of cylinders are driven to feed, compress, burst, and exhaust gases continuously without using a crankshaft and valves. |
| US09016246B2 |
Portable handheld work apparatus having an internal combustion engine
In an internal combustion engine (2) of a portable handheld work apparatus, the cylinder (3) is provided with cooling ribs (4, 4′). A cooling airflow is generated by the fan wheel (13) and is guided over the cooling ribs. A carburetor (9) is temperaturized as required by the heated cooling air. A control of the cooling airflow to the carburetor (9) takes place in that an opening (11), which passes the heated cooling air, is selectively closed or opened via a closure element (12). In order to obtain improved cooling of the cylinder during summer operation as well as during winter operation, the closure element (12) is provided with at least one air guide wall which extends essentially transversely to the cooling airflow and causes this cooling air to be partially backed up and deflected. |
| US09016243B2 |
Circulating fluidized bed boiler
A circulating fluidized bed boiler includes a rectangular furnace having multiple particle separators connected to an upper portion of each of a front wall and a back wall of the furnace. Each particle separator includes a gas outlet, and a flue gas duct system connected to the gas outlets for conducting cleaned flue gas to a back pass. The particle separators are arranged in pairs. Each pair includes a front separator arranged adjacent to the front wall and a back separator arranged adjacent to the back wall. The flue gas duct system includes cross over ducts, each duct connecting the gas outlet of a front separator of a pair of particle separators, across and over the furnace, to the gas outlet of the back separator of the same pair of particle separators, and to the back pass, which back pass is arranged on the back wall side of the furnace. |
| US09016241B2 |
Collagen fiber reconstituted rawhide and process for making
This invention describes a collagen fiber reconstituted rawhide useful in the production of pet chews, and a method for making the same. Beginning materials include animal skins with hair, depilated limed splits and leftovers from the manufacture of rawhide pet chews. The materials are pretreated, ground, subjected to acid treatment to swell and separate the collagen fibers that comprise the animal hide, further ground into pulp, vacuum filtered, mixed with a dehydration agent that chemically shrinks the expanded fibers, drained, formed and dried into sheet and finally exposed to a cross-linking agent to increase the adhesive strength of the end product. Edible materials, including meats, may be added to the solution prior to draining, to enhance the nutritional value and palatability of the final product, and the reconstituted rawhide sheets may be bleached for appearance. |
| US09016240B2 |
Method and system for enhancing growth and survivability of aquatic organisms
A method for enhancing the production of aquatic organisms under cultivation, including the steps of exposing the aquatic organisms to a submerged illumination source inside water of a rearing unit; and maintaining illumination in the rearing unit for a rearing period. |
| US09016238B2 |
Milking equipment and method
A teat cup has a nozzle in a head portion of a flexible liner of the teat cup for delivering fluid internally of the teat cup. The nozzle is directed so as to discharge fluid towards the discharge end of the teat cup. When milking is terminated, treatment fluid is injected through the nozzle into the head portion of the liner just prior to and/or as the teat cup is being withdrawn from the teat and, the teat cup wipes the fluid down the teat so as substantially to coat the teat. When the teat cup falls into an inverted rest position, after take-off, the interior of the liner may be flushed and dried with disinfectant, water and compressed air discharged upwardly into the liner by the nozzle. The discharge end of the teat cup may be fitted with a shut-off valve which can be actuated to prevent ingress of treatment and cleansing fluids into the milk tubes during the treatment and cleansing cycle. |
| US09016233B1 |
Volume combinatorial processing chamber
A reactor assembly having vertically adjustable flow cells is provided. The vertically adjustable flow cells include passageways for distributing a fluid to a reaction region isolated below a bottom surface of corresponding flow cells. The adjustable flow cells enable another dimension of variability for combinatorial processing. Thus, additional data may be gathered for effects on process parameter variations, material variations, process sequence variations, etc., for semiconductor processing operations. |
| US09016232B2 |
Paper coating apparatus with multiple hot wax applicators and associated methods
A paper coater includes a frame, an entry guide roll and an exit guide roll both carried by the frame and along a path of travel of a continuous paper sheet. The paper coater includes independently controllable hot wax applicators carried by the frame between the entry and exit guide rolls. Each independently controllable hot wax applicator includes a press roll, an engraved applicator roll opposite the press roll so that the continuous paper sheet is therebetween, and with the engraved applicator roll extending into a hot wax reservoir to pick up hot wax. Each wax applicator includes a doctor blade adjacent the engraved applicator roll to control a thickness of hot wax. At least one selectively operable positioner relatively moves the press and engraved applicator rolls between active and idle positions. The paper coater provides different wax application rates and can be reconfigured relatively quickly between different application rates. |
| US09016226B2 |
Suspended marine platform
A suspension system for passenger modules used with high-speed boats, the suspension system including a shock absorbing assembly, for supporting the passenger module relative to the vessel. The passenger module is attached to the vessel via an assembly of pivoting spars in which the vessel attachment locations are spaced athwart a greater distance than the passenger module attachment locations. The suspension system may include means for resisting relative lateral movement (e.g. a panhard rod or a Watt's linkage) and for attenuating motion associated with pitch and roll. |
| US09016225B1 |
Apparatus, system, and method for kayak anchor stake
A kayak mooring stake is positioned in a scupper hole or sleeve. A knob is provided on the stake, and the knob rests on a shelf or ledge around the inside surface of the scupper hole or sleeve. When the mooring stake is rotated, the knob is positioned over an essentially vertical slot interrupting the ledge or shelf, and the stake can be thrust through the scupper hole or sleeve into the mud/sand at the bottom of a bay, lake, stream or the like, thereby fixing the position of a small watercraft against wind and/or current. |
| US09016223B2 |
Ship comprising a ventilation device
The invention concerns a ship comprising at least one hold, and at least one ventilation apparatus for ventilation of the hold, which has at least one air inlet and at least one air outlet connected to the air inlet by means of a passage. In particular the invention concerns a ship having a ventilation apparatus, wherein the passage has at least one portion arranged above the air inlet. The invention further concerns a ventilation apparatus for ventilation of the hold of a ship. |
| US09016222B2 |
Cargo hold of a vessel for transporting liquefied gas
A cargo tank for a liquefied gas carrier ship includes: a main wall surrounding a receiving space in which the liquefied gas is received; a panel assembly surrounding the main wall; and an outer wall surrounding the panel assembly. The panel assembly includes: a plurality of first thermal insulating panels; a plurality of first auxiliary walls; a plurality of second thermal insulating panels fixed on second surfaces of the first auxiliary walls; a bridge pad disposed between the second thermal insulating panels; and a second auxiliary wall located between the bridge pad and the first auxiliary walls. The first thermal insulating panel and the first auxiliary wall are adhered to each other, and a first stress dispersion region prevents the first auxiliary wall or the second auxiliary wall from being damaged due to thermal expansions or contractions of the first thermal insulating panels and the bridge pad. |
| US09016220B2 |
Variable geometry water vessel
A water vessel having variable geometry is described. The water vessel comprises: a frame; a plurality of hulls coupled to the frame, each one of the plurality of hulls coupled to the frame by a folding mechanism and configured to move, relative to the frame, between a deployed configuration and a stowed configuration in which at least one dimension of the water vessel is reduced in respect of the deployed configuration; a plurality of thruster assemblies configured to provide thrust to the water vessel, each one of the plurality of thruster assemblies being coupled to a respective one of the plurality of hulls; and a protective device coupled to a respective one of the plurality of thruster assemblies, the protective device for preventing intake of foreign objects into the respective one of the plurality of thruster assemblies. |
| US09016216B2 |
Methods of combustion of powdered fuels and powdered fuel dispersions
Methods of combustion include metering a substantially explosible powder into an oxidizing gas using a positive displacement powder dispersion device to suspend the powder in the gas and directing the powder in the gas to form a controlled stream of a moving explosible powder dispersion. In some embodiments, the method further includes igniting the dispersion with an ignition source to produce a stationary deflagrating combustion wave and sustaining combustion by continuing to meter the powder into the gas. In other embodiments, the method further includes adjusting a nozzle velocity of the dispersion to reflect properties of the dispersion to create a sustainable flame and igniting the dispersion to produce a stationary deflagrating wave of the dispersion. In other embodiments, the method further includes igniting the dispersion in a combustion area to produce a stationary deflagrating wave such that a conductive heat transfer from combustion brings the powder to combustion temperature. |
| US09016214B2 |
Shelving system having a shelf with biasing elements to resist inadvertent or accidental detachment from a support rail
An article support, such as a shelf, is securely attachable at a plurality of locations along a generally vertical support or rail. The article support includes a support-engaging portion having one or more tabs, at least one of which is a locking tab having a forward-extending tooth that engages the vertical support, when the tab or tabs extend through slots in the support. Optionally, a biasing element urges the article away from the support to maintain secure engagement of the locking tab with the support. The resulting shelving system or article support system is resistant to accidental detachment of the article supports from the supports and permits relatively small adjustment intervals for the article supports along the supports. |
| US09016213B2 |
Workstation with variable spatial configuration capabilities
A workstation with variable spatial configuration capabilities. It is designed to allow a plurality of office chairs to couple to the workstation and while coupled to the workstation move in tandem with the workstation. Such coupling will allow the workstation as a whole to be portable while still efficiently supporting and effectively organizing the components of a complex computer system. The workstation further comprises of work surfaces whose placement is adjustable in multiple dimensions and provides a solid, yet portable structure to work from, while being flexible enough to allow a user selective variable spatial configuration for the user work environment. |
| US09016206B2 |
Armor piercing projectile
A projectile designed to penetrate a liquid filled vessel and react with the liquid contained within the vessel. The projectile is formed of a narrow tapered nose portion with a thin liquid soluble casing which contains a reactive material. The nose portion is formed of spent radioactive material and is connected to an axially extending centrally positioned rod having a pressure plate on its distal end. The projectile casing contains potassium or other material which reacts with water or other liquid to create an explosion once the casing has dissolved within the vessel. |
| US09016203B2 |
Propellant charge igniter
The invention relates to producing a propellant charge igniter tube (2) for a propellant charge igniter (1) by means of hydroforming (high-pressure forming). According to the present invention, a sleeve base (6) is then joined to the propellant charge igniter tube (2) by means of friction welding, for example, and vulcanized without reworking. In this context, the rubber lips of the sleeve base (6) and the propellant charge igniter tube (2) are molded on, or vulcanized, on in one operation. The vacuum-packed benites (8) and the lower part (9) of the propellant charge igniter (1) can then be mounted in the sleeve base (6). |
| US09016202B2 |
High speed printing ink
Formulations for solvent-based flexographic or rotogravure inks, which are capable high-quality, defect-free printing at high speeds, contain flexographic ink resins solutions and solvent mixtures which are designed to maintain a dynamic solubility parameter in the ink as the dry state is approached during the printing process. The inks described show extremely high quality printing at linear press speeds above 1800 fee per minute (ca 0.549 km/min). |
| US09016199B2 |
Optimization of UV curing
A system and method of preparing a flexoplate so it is suitable for the printing of high resolution patterns. The method includes controlling the curing conditions of the flexoplate, thereby controlling the properties of said flexoplate such as floor thickness, pattern cross-sectional geometry, repeatability of printed features during the printing process, and durability of the flexoplate during the printing process. |
| US09016197B2 |
Screen printer and method for detecting amount of residual paste
A light receiving section 27b receives a measurement beam, which is cast from a light projection section 27a and partially blocked by cream solder 19 scraped up by a squeegee 16, whereby a sensor 27 measures a one-dimensional size of a predetermined region of a cross sectional profile of the cream solder 19 as a cross sectional paste length and takes the cross sectional paste length as an index for an amount of residual cream solder 19. The amount of residual cream solder 19 can be numerically grasped at all times, so that versatility and accuracy in detecting the amount of residual cream solder 19 can be assured. |
| US09016193B2 |
Logistic transport system for nutritional substances
A preservation system for storage and logistic transport of nutritional substances. The preservation system obtains information about the nutritional substance to be preserved, senses and measures the external environment to the preservation system, senses and measures the internal environment to the preservation system, senses and measures the state of the nutritional substance, and stores such information throughout the period of preservation. Using this accumulated information, the preservation system can measure, or estimate, changes in nutritional content (usually degradation) during the period of preservation. Additionally, the preservation system can use this information to dynamically modify the preservation system to minimize detrimental changes to the nutritional content of the nutritional substance, and in some cases actually improve the nutritional substance attributes. |
| US09016192B2 |
Hot-and-cold serving station
A serving station includes a first well and a second well. The wells configured for receiving food pans. The serving station further includes an active cooling system and an active heating system. The active cooling system is configured to independently lower the temperature of either or both of the first and second wells, and the active heating system is configured to independently raise the temperature of either or both of the first and second wells. Both wells may be heated, both wells may be cooled, or one of the first and second wells may be heated while the other is cooled. |
| US09016191B2 |
Portable baking oven
A portable baking oven for a pizza or other food item includes a food item heating plate, a base having a heating chamber, and a top cover having a moisture vent and a heat reflector structure extending across the inside of said top cover. When placed on said base, the top cover forms a baking chamber above the heating plate. Heat produced in the base's heating chamber circulates up through air passageways in the base into the baking chamber above the food item heating plate. This circulated heat is reflected back down toward the food item heating plate by the top cover's heat reflecting structure to accelerate baking of the top of a food item placed on the heating plate. The top cover's moisture vent can be located above the heat reflector structure in the top cover, and openings can be provided in the heat reflector structure which allow moisture emitted by a food item being baked in the oven to pass through the reflector structure and out through the top cover moisture vent. |
| US09016188B2 |
Firearm having gas piston system
A firearm having a gas piston system includes a bolt carrier, an adjustable gas piston block located forward on the firearm and an over-the-barrel spring and guide rod arrangement, all of which is housed and contained in a top rail that runs the length of the firearm and that maintains the alignment of these firearm components. The firearm also includes an ambidextrous, non-reciprocating charging handle located forward on the firearm and positioned within the top rail for charging the firearm. |
| US09016187B2 |
Pump action rifle and action lock mechanism
An action lock for a Modern Sporting Rifle pump action firearm is pivotably mounted within the lower receiver of the rifle and has a stop surface that engages a contact surface on the bolt carrier when the bolt carrier is in battery. A cam on the hammer or the trigger engages a cam surface on the action lock when the hammer is released by a pull of the trigger. Cam action rotates the action lock out of engagement with the bolt carrier, unlocking it and allowing the fore end grip to be pumped to cycle the action and extract and eject the spent casing and strip and chamber a new round. |
| US09016186B2 |
Vehicle underbelly system
An underbelly system for a vehicle. The system includes: a deflector configured to be disposed under a cabin structure of the vehicle and constitute an underbelly thereof; a plurality of explosive charges, each being associated with a different deformable portion of the deflector and configured, upon charge detonation, for deforming its corresponding deformable portion of the deflector to project in a direction away from the cabin structure relative to its original structure; a sensing arrangement configured for sensing an external detonation under the vehicle and obtaining detonation data of the external detonation; and a control unit, in communication with the sensing arrangement and the explosive charges, configured for receiving said detonation data, and initiating detonation of two or more selected explosive charges in a sequential manner corresponding to said detonation data. |
| US09016183B2 |
Sheet material punching device
A sheet material punching device includes a plurality of punches and links, a driving mechanism having drive gears capable of transmitting a rotational driving force of an electric motor (driving source), and slide arms allowed to reciprocate along the longitudinal direction of a frame, the slide arms making the punches reciprocate in a punching direction along with their own reciprocating motions by the intermediary of links. The slide arms respectively have cams capable of converting the rotational motion of the driving mechanism into the reciprocating motions of the slide arms, and auxiliary cams capable of moving the slide arms to predefined initial positions. The drive gears respectively have cam followers to be engaged with the cams, and auxiliary cam followers to be engaged with the auxiliary cams. The sheet material punching device return the slide arms to the initial positions without increasing a driving energy. |
| US09016182B2 |
Device and method for cutting through the adhesive bead of panes that have been fixed by bonding
A device and a method for cutting through the adhesive bead of panes that have been fixed by bonding is specified, said device having a base body on which at least one suction plate for fixing on a pane to be separated out as well as one motor-drivable coil for winding-on a separating wire are accommodated, wherein at least two guide rollers are held on the base body by means of extension arms at a distance which is adjustable in respect to each other. The device is preferably positioned approximately diagonally on the pane in such a manner that the guide rollers are situated on the outer ends of the extension arms in the vicinity of the corner regions of the pane. |
| US09016180B2 |
Tile saw
A tile saw includes a base, a frame assembly disposed on the base, a first rail disposed on the frame assembly, the first rail having a longitudinal axis. A table is slidingly disposed on the first rail and a support assembly is disposed on the base. A saw assembly is supported by the support assembly and includes a motor, and a cutting wheel driven by the motor. The saw assembly is pivotable about a bevel axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis between two pivoted positions and is lockable in at least one of the two pivoted positions. The bevel axis is not coplanar with the upper surface. |
| US09016177B2 |
Window covering sizing method and apparatus
A method and apparatus for cutting a window covering comprises saw for cutting the window blind. A clamp assembly moves the window covering relative to the saw. A controller moves the clamp assembly to automatically position the window covering relative to the saw. The saw is moved into engagement with the window covering to cut the window covering. |
| US09016176B2 |
Web member cutting apparatus for cutting web member that has a plurality of fibers including tows and web member cutting method
A web-member cutting apparatus for cutting a web member at intervals in a transport direction includes: an intermittent transport mechanism for intermittently transporting the web member in the transport direction; a disc-like rotatable blade member for cutting the web member by moving along an intersecting direction while rotating about a rotation shaft during a suspension period of transport of the web member, and a downstream pressing member for regulating movement of the web member by pressing the web member against the intermittent transport mechanism at a position downstream from a target cut position in the transport direction throughout a period during which the rotatable blade member is cutting the web member. |
| US09016172B2 |
Hammer
A hammer includes a handle, a head portion, and a striking mechanism. The head portion is connected with the handle and includes a metal strike element and a resilient strike element. A receiving space is defined between the two strike elements. The striking mechanism is located in the receiving space and includes a slide axle and a striking member. The striking member has a through hole for being slidably sleeved onto the slide axle. The striking member is slidable in the receiving space to alternatively strike one end of the head portion. Thereby, inertia striking force is provided by the striking member so that the hammer can be used to strike an object more easily. |
| US09016171B2 |
Shock absorbing hammer
The present invention relates to a shock absorbing hammer whose head has housings filled with pellet assembly inside. The pellet assembly includes both rigid pellets and soft pellets to absorb shock from external striking force impacted on the head of the main frame. |
| US09016168B2 |
Driver adaptive method for vehicle actuation with steering wheel controls
A steering wheel and associated control system to execute a corresponding algorithm, the steering wheel including a rim which is rotatable about a first axis to steer a vehicle, and a throttle dial disposed in a surface of the rim. The throttle dial controls a throttle of the vehicle and has a variable output to control an amount of the throttle in proportion to an amount the throttle dial is displaced from a nil output position. A similar brake dial is also provided, and is also disposed in the surface of the rim at another location, thus providing hand operation of a throttle and brake of a vehicle without having to remove one's hands from the steering wheel. |
| US09016160B2 |
Steering system and coupling wire
A telescopic-type steering system includes an upper tube and a lower tube that are coupled to each other such that relative displacement between the upper tube and the lower tube is allowed. The steering system includes a coupling wire that is at least partially formed of an insulating member and that has one end portion and the other end portion that are electrically insulated from each other. In the steering system, the upper tube and the lower tube are coupled to each other by the coupling wire. |
| US09016159B2 |
Flexible tool
A flexible tool comprises stiffening means switchable in use from a first state of relatively low stiffness to a second state of relatively high stiffness, and subsequently switchable from the second state back to the first state. |
| US09016154B2 |
Gear change device for a motor vehicle
A gear change device for including a first and a second primary shaft, selectively connectable to a driving shaft of a motor vehicle by a double clutch engagement device, and a first and a second secondary shaft. A plurality of gear selector devices rotatably couples each of the freely rotatable gear wheels with the shaft on which it is mounted, and, at least one rotatable actuator drum, for controlling the selector devices, having a plurality of cam tracks. The selector devices include respective fork-like actuator members and each has a cam follower element engaged in a respective cam track of the respective actuator drum. Each pair of cam tracks adjacent to each other provided on an actuator drum controls fork-like actuator members which are associated to different secondary shafts and which have the can follower elements thereof engaged on the drum in positions angularly spaced with respect to each other. |
| US09016152B2 |
Actuator arrangement
An actuator arrangement comprises a rotatable shaft, a nut mounted upon the shaft and translatable along the shaft upon rotation of the shaft relative to the nut, and a lock arrangement operable to lock the shaft and nut against relative rotation, the lock arrangement comprising a lock component mounted upon one of the shaft and the nut for axial movement relative thereto but held against angular movement relative thereto, the lock component being co-operable with an abutment provided on the other of the shaft and the nut, or a component associated therewith, to lock the shaft and nut to one another against relative rotation. |
| US09016150B2 |
Transmission having selectable power transfer shaft
A vehicle powertrain includes a transaxle configured to drive front wheels and a power take-off unit configured to drive rear wheels through a driveshaft. The power take-off unit includes a disconnect clutch such that the power flow path to the rear wheels can be disconnected to reduce fuel consumption and reconnected when needed for traction enhancement. Although the disconnect clutch is physically located within the power take-off unit, it is actuated by fluid from the transaxle valve body. The disconnect clutch actuator includes a piston that slides within a chamber in a housing and a solenoid controlled valve that fluidly connects the chamber either to a pressure source or to the transaxle sump. |
| US09016143B2 |
Sensor array for sensing the magnitude and position of a force
A sensor array for sensing the magnitude and position of a force in a first direction is provided. The sensor array includes a compressible layer, an electrically grounded layer, and an electrically active layer comprising a plurality of transmitter electrodes and a plurality of receiver electrodes. Each of the transmitter electrodes is configured to capacitively couple to a receiver electrode, and the compressible layer is positioned between the electrically grounded layer the electrically active layer. |
| US09016138B2 |
Flanged reducer vortex flowmeter
A flanged vortex flowmeter is connected to a flanged piping system that has a diameter larger than the diameter of the measurement section of the vortex flowmeter border. The vortex flowmeter has an inlet flange that reduces diameter from the inlet to the measurement section. A bluff body positioned in the measurement section produces vortices that alternate at a frequency proportional to the flow rate of fluid through the flowmeter. A length from inception of vortex shedding at the bluff body to a first expansion of the flow passage downstream of the bluff body is greater than a vortex wavelength of the vortices produced by the bluff body. |
| US09016137B2 |
Device for the contactless flow measurement of fluids in flexible tubes
For flow measurement a device with a compact housing and a fixable hinged cover has a measuring channel for inserting a flexible tube such that it becomes deformed in a defined way. The measuring channel extends over the entire width of the housing. A measuring cell arranged in the center of the measuring channel has four ceramics I, II, III, IV, integrated in a sound-decoupled way and facing each other diagonally in pairs, which are placed in lateral parts on the left and on the right of the measuring cell, and a base plate limiting the measuring cell downwards in the direction of an installation space for an electric evaluation system, wherein the base plate also limits the remaining area of the measuring channel from below. |
| US09016133B2 |
Pressure sensor with pressure-actuated switch
Various embodiments relate to a pressure sensor and related methods of manufacturing and use. A pressure sensor may include an electrical contact included in a flexible membrane that deflects in response to a measured ambient pressure. The electrical contact may be separated from a signal path through a cavity formed using a sacrificial layer and PVD plugs. At one or more defined touch-point pressure thresholds, the membrane of the pressure sensor may deflect so that the state of contact between an electrical contact and one or more sections of a signal path may change. In some embodiments, the change of state may cause the pressure sensor to trigger an alarm in the electrical circuit. Various embodiments also enable the operation of the electrical circuit for testing and calibration through the use of one or more actuation electrode layers. |
| US09016127B2 |
Piezoelectric acceleration sensor
A piezoelectric acceleration sensor comprises a piezoelectric element, a metallic sheet and a circuit board. The piezoelectric element is polarized in a predetermined direction. The circuit board includes a circuit portion and a roughly flat shaped base portion. The base portion protrudes from an end portion of the circuit portion. One of surfaces of the metallic sheet is fixed to and supported by a surface of the base portion. The piezoelectric element is fixed to and supported by a remaining one of the surfaces of the metallic sheet in a manner that the piezoelectric element and the base portion do not overlap each other in the predetermined direction. |
| US09016126B2 |
MEMS accelerometer having a flux concentrator between parallel magnets
Microelectromechanical (MEMS) accelerometer and acceleration sensing methods. An example MEMS accelerometer includes a housing, a proof mass suspended within the housing by at least one torsional flexure, at least one planar coil on the proof mass that extends on both sides of an axis of rotation of the proof mass, at least one magnet oriented such that a north-south axis of the at least one magnet is oriented approximately orthogonal to the rotational axis of the proof mass, at least one pole piece located outside the coil, and at least one magnetic flux concentrator located inside the coil opposite the at least one of the at least one pole pieces. A method includes sensing a change in capacitance of a pickoff in the MEMS accelerometer and rebalancing the MEMS accelerometer by sending a current through the planar coil between the magnetic flux concentrator and the pole piece. |
| US09016123B2 |
Angle detection method with resolver
In an angle detection method with a resolver, the method being for detecting a rotational angle of a rotator by synchronously detecting a first signal and a second signal that are two phase sine wave modulation signals obtained from a one phase excitation/two phase output resolver, the method includes: a first signal detection process which detects a signal in the order of the first signal and the second signal; and a second signal detection process which detects a signal in the order of the second signal and the first signal. |
| US09016118B2 |
Mounting structure
A mounting structure for an electrical device includes a mounting portion and a containing portion. The mounting portion has a mounting surface and an outer surface. The containing portion has an inner surface with protrusions forming an indent, an outer surface, an insertion aperture, and a flow aperture. |
| US09016111B2 |
Methods for determining wettability alteration
A protocol for determining the effect of water composition on surface alteration is described using simple and less preparation sensitive, brine/oil and rock/brine/air systems when compared to conventional rock/brine/oil measurement methods. A model glass/brine/oil system is described and it is demonstrated that experimental measurements of contact angle obtained using a conventional approach agree well with the contact angles predicted using the proposed protocol. |
| US09016107B2 |
Method of calibrating a constant voltage supply for an ultrasonic transducer of a wire bonding machine
A method of calibrating a voltage for use with an ultrasonic transducer of a wire bonding machine in a constant voltage mode is provided. The method includes: (1) determining an impedance value associated with operation of the ultrasonic transducer; and (2) establishing an adjusted voltage level for use with the ultrasonic transducer in the constant voltage mode based on the determined impedance value. |
| US09016105B2 |
Method for measuring the strain of material using short cavity fiber laser
A method for measuring the strain of material using a short cavity fiber laser, includes steps of: a) arranging the short cavity fiber laser, which laser comprises sequentially coupled laser diode pumping source, a wavelength division multiplexer, a fiber bragg grating, an active fiber and a loop mirror; b) fixing the short cavity fiber laser on the material whose strain will be measured, and matching the stretching direction of the fiber of the short cavity fiber laser with the direction of the strain produced by the material to be measured; c) measuring the drift amount of longitudinal mode output by the short cavity fiber laser; and d) calculating and obtaining the strain of the material to be measured. |
| US09016097B2 |
Compositions comprising estolide compounds and methods of making and using the same
Provided herein are compositions comprising at least one estolide compound of formula: in which n is an integer equal to or greater than 0; m is an integer equal to or greater than 1; R1, independently for each occurrence, is selected from optionally substituted alkyl that is saturated or unsaturated, and branched or unbranched; R2 is selected from hydrogen and optionally substituted alkyl that is saturated or unsaturated, and branched or unbranched; and R3 and R4, independently for each occurrence, are selected from optionally substituted alkyl that is saturated or unsaturated, and branched or unbranched. Also provided are uses of the compositions described herein. |
| US09016095B2 |
Multiple user lockbox
A lockbox includes a body and a lid connected to body and pivotable between a closed position and an open position. The body defines an enclosure and includes a body aperture and the lid includes a first lid aperture positioned adjacent to the body aperture when the lid is in the closed position, such that insertion of a padlock shackle through the body aperture and the lid aperture prevents pivoting movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position. The lockbox includes a slot intersecting one of the body aperture and the lid aperture for insertion of an item into the enclosure when the lid is in the closed position. A padlock shackle inserted through the body aperture and the lid aperture prevents passage of an item through the slot. |
| US09016093B2 |
Pulling rolls with spring elements having increased angular length for use in glass manufacturing and processes incorporating the same
In one embodiment, a pulling roll for drawing glass sheet in a down-draw process includes a shaft member and a compliant cover assembly positioned on the shaft member. The compliant cover assembly includes at least one traction disk positioned on the shaft member. The at least one traction disk includes an annular hub and a plurality of spring elements integrally formed with the annular hub. The spring elements project outward from the annular hub such that an end of each spring element is positioned radially outward from a base of each spring element and is circumferentially offset relative to the base of each spring element. |
| US09016088B2 |
System and method for producing LNG from contaminated gas streams
A system and method for removing nitrogen and producing liquefied natural gas (“LNG”) from methane without the need for external refrigeration. The invention also relates to a system and method for removing nitrogen from methane and for producing liquefied nitrogen in addition to LNG. The system and method of the invention are particularly suitable for use in recovering and processing comparatively small volumes of methane from coal mines or from flash gas captured at an LNG loading site. |
| US09016085B2 |
Refrigerating appliance with circulating air cooling
The invention relates to a refrigerating appliance having an evaporator area and at least two cooling areas partitioned off from one another inside the housing of the refrigerating appliance. A wall has a solid inner skin, a solid outer skin and a layer made of expanded insulating material located between the inner and outer skin. A cold air supply channel in the wall extends from the evaporator area past the first cooling area to the second cooling area. A shaped part made of an insulating material extends between the cold air supply channel and the inner skin of the wall. The cold air supply channel is separated from the expanded insulating material by a partition. |
| US09016077B2 |
Refrigerator and control method thereof
A refrigerator includes a low-temperature storage compartment damper to control supply of cool air to a low-temperature storage compartment, a high-temperature storage compartment damper to control supply of hot air to a high-temperature storage compartment, and a controller to control the low-temperature storage compartment damper to be opened and the high-temperature storage compartment damper to be closed while controlling a compressor and blowing fan to be driven so that the temperature of the low-temperature storage compartment reaches a low set temperature, to control the driving of the compressor and blowing fan to be stopped and the low-temperature storage compartment damper to be closed when the temperature of the low-temperature storage compartment reaches the low set temperature, and to control a defrosting heater and the blowing fan to be driven and the high-temperature storage compartment damper to be opened when the supply of cool air is stopped. |
| US09016073B2 |
Ice maker with heatless ice removal and method for heatless removal of ice
An ice making module includes a conductive ice tray having a bottom surface and a barrier coating on at least a portion of the conductive ice tray. An electrical circuit in electrical communication with the conductive ice tray includes a power source and a capacitor. A switch is configured to move between a charging position, wherein the capacitor stores an electrical charge, and a pulse position, wherein the capacitor releases the electrical charge. A conductive material disposed proximate the conductive ice tray is in selective electromagnetic communication with the conductive ice tray. The electrical charge released by the capacitor generates an induced electrical current through the conductive material and a repelling electromagnetic force between the conductive ice tray and the conductive material. A water dispensing mechanism disposes water into the conductive ice tray. A cooling apparatus decrease the temperature of the water in the conductive ice tray. |
| US09016071B2 |
Air-conditioning apparatus for electric vehicle
An air-conditioning apparatus for an electric vehicle, which includes a main core disposed on a ventilation channel, and a thermoelectric device having a first surface and a second surface performing heat generation or heat absorption. An air-conditioning channel through which cooling water circulates around the first surface of the thermoelectric device and the main core is also provided along with a waste heat channel through which the cooling water circulates around the second surface of the thermoelectric device and an electric component A controller configured to control the thermoelectric device so that the first surface and the second surface serve as a heat generating surface and a heat absorbing surface, respectively, and control circulation through the air-conditioning channel or the waste heat channel in a heating mode. |
| US09016065B2 |
Coil arrangement for air intake system for gas turbine and methods
An air intake system for a gas turbine includes one or more coils in airflow communication with an inlet arrangement. Each coil is constructed and arranged to have a respective upstream face velocity that is intended to be within 20% of the other coils. Each coil utilizes a working fluid of a predetermined temperature range conveyed there through and a plurality of spaced fins. The fins are spaced apart to permit air to flow between adjacent fins as air flows through the coil. At least one of the coils has a number of fins per inch that is different from the number of fins per inch of the other coils. Alternatively, each individual coil has at least one section with fewer or greater numbers of fins per inch that the other sections of that coil. |
| US09016048B2 |
Exhaust arrangement
An exhaust arrangement for an internal combustion engine. The exhaust arrangement includes a diffuser duct including a wall surface which diverges between an inlet and a first outlet. The arrangement further includes an auxiliary duct extending from a second outlet of the diffuser duct. The second diffuser duct outlet being located on the wall surface between the diffuser duct inlet and the first outlet. The auxiliary duct includes a heat recovery device configured to convert heat energy from exhaust gases passing through the auxiliary duct in use to mechanical or electrical energy. |
| US09016040B2 |
Thrust reverser system with translating-rotating cascade and method of operation
A thrust reverser system and operation suitable for high-bypass turbofan engines. The thrust reverser system includes a cascade system adapted to be translated with a translating cowl in an aft direction of an engine to expose a circumferential opening. The cascade system is deployed from a stowed position as the translating cowl and the cascade system are translated in the aft direction. During deployment of the cascade system, a fore end thereof translates in the aft direction and an aft end thereof initially translates in the aft direction and then subsequently rotates about the fore end so that further translation of the cascade segment in the aft direction causes the cascade segment to move to a deployed position and divert bypass air within a bypass duct of the engine through the circumferential opening. |
| US09016039B2 |
Combustor and method for supplying fuel to a combustor
A combustor includes a combustion chamber that defines a longitudinal axis. A primary reaction zone is inside the combustion chamber, and a secondary reaction zone inside the combustion chamber is downstream from the primary reaction zone. A center fuel nozzle extends axially inside the combustion chamber to the secondary reaction zone, and a plurality of fluid injectors circumferentially are arranged inside the center fuel nozzle downstream from the primary reaction zone. Each fluid injector defines an additional longitudinal axis out of the center fuel nozzle that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the combustion chamber. |
| US09016038B2 |
Fid apparatus and method of using
A fid apparatus includes a first channel formed along one side of the fid and a second channel formed along an opposite side of the fid. The fid further includes an aperture that passes completely through both the first channel and the second channel. This arrangement enables the fid to be able to grasp or clutch a segment of rope during a splicing process. The splicing process involves a method of using the fid apparatus in such a way that the segment of rope is arranged within the first channel, second channel, and aperture of the fid prior to commencing splicing processes. The segment of rope used is determined by the particular form of splicing that is implemented. |
| US09016034B2 |
Easily openable can end, container, and methods of forming
An easily openable can end and associated methods include an end panel, a score line formed in the end panel to define a prearranged opening area, a tab, the tab having a handle and a rivet securing the tab to the end panel. In particular, the end panel of the can end is provided with at least one moveable portion contactable with the lower surface of the tab at a location between the rivet and the end of the handle of the tab, the moveable portion being deformable upwardly under influence of pressure to push against the lower surface of the tab and thereby incline the handle of the tab away from the end panel to define a gap under the tab. |
| US09016033B2 |
Film clamping and cutting device of film wrapping machine
A film clamping and cutting device of a film wrapping machine is revealed. A connecting plate of a film clamping and cutting unit is located by a braking part. Moreover, by moment of a rotating machinery before stopping, a film clamping and cutting unit main body assembled on the rotating machinery is driven to continue moving. Under the movement of the unit main body, a pulling force is generated by a pull cord arranged between the connecting plate and a vertical-wheel of the unit main body. The pulling force rotates the vertical-wheel so that both a film clamping and cutting rod assembled with the vertical-wheel and a clamp fall toward a blade block to clamp and cut off a film. The film is also pulled and cut by an elastic recovery force of the film clamping and cutting rod. Therefore automatic film clamping and cutting is carried out. |
| US09016032B2 |
Round baler having a web wrap apparatus
A round baler is provided having a web wrap apparatus with a feeder transporting web to a bale chamber. The feeder has a lower fixed carrier and an upper pivotable feeder plate. In order to assure, that the web is caught, when it is transported by baling elements into the bale chamber, the feeder is provided with at least one partially or totally elastic web sheet extending toward the bale chamber and acting on a free portion of the web. |
| US09016031B2 |
Door for a refrigerated cabinet
The door is made with a triple-lite insulated glass unit and a frame of aluminum rails. The insulated glass unit has a stepped cross-section with the outer glass lite being larger than the inner glass lites. An opaque non-conductive ceramic frit forms a rectangularly shaped border to mask the mounting of the inner glass lite(s). An electrically conductive coating on the outer glass lite is insulated from the aluminum rails of the frame by a plastic strip disposed between the outer glass lite and each rail. |
| US09016029B2 |
Method of setting up, maintaining and disassembling a wind turbine
A method of erecting, and a method of servicing or dismantling, a wind energy plant with a hub height of at least 140 meters makes provision that a heavy-duty lifting device is temporarily disposed on a tower top for any installing, exchanging, or disassembling purposes, and subsequently is dismantled immediately, with all these operations being carried out without using an external crane. A light-duty lifting device attached to the tower serves for erecting the tower, so that no external large-scale cranes are required. For disassembling or exchanging the large components, an auxiliary lifting device is able to transport the heavy-duty lifting device to the top of the tower and is also capable of lowering the heavy-duty lifting device from there. |
| US09016024B1 |
Steel framing clip
A multipurpose connector that minimally occludes the opening in a conventional steel wall stud when used to connect a conventional bridging member to the wall stud, conserving the opening's function as a pass-through for pipes, conduits and wiring. It has a tapering extension on one flange that maximizes its interface with a bridging member, and a matching central portion on the other flange that minimizes material waste when the connectors are cut from a roll of sheet metal on a progressive die machine. It has a pair of tapering tabs that maximize the functional interface with a wall stud and maximize the functional size of the opening in the wall stud. It has a plurality of fastener openings designed to permit a variety of secure connections to be made with the same fastener and a plurality of fasteners. It is one of a plurality of multipurpose connectors of different widths that can all be made on the same progressive die production line with minimal setup changes. |
| US09016023B2 |
Multi-purpose column assembly
Column assemblies for work environments that support the acoustical, lighting, and cabling needs for the environment. |
| US09016019B2 |
Composite masonry block and method of making the same
A multi-component composite block includes a pair of opposed and parallel masonry face panels amalgamated with transverse non-masonry truss-webs or a truss-module including a plurality of joined non-masonry truss-webs. Truss-webs and/or truss-module are delivered within the mold assembly and aligned, retained, and held fast in place by mold apparatuses. Portions of truss-web and/or truss-module unite together with mold apparatuses to shape partitioned residual cavity spaces for the addition of concrete block forming material to form face panels. The truss-web members and/or truss-module have configured elements that integrate with the concrete mass of the face shells providing a permanent amalgamated bond. The assembled multi-component composite block is rigidly stable, durable, structural, lightweight, and thermally efficient. |
| US09016011B2 |
Internally aligned insulating window and door buck
An internally aligned insulating concrete form window and door buck that self aligns into the insulated concrete wall forms and it allows for the changing of the face and edge materials when desired, and the use of solid insulating materials with internal alignment elements that fit into the cavity of the insulated concrete formed wall which bonds to the concrete. The internally aligned insulating window and door buck generally includes an insulated window and door buck made as a single insulating element or with multiple components with a configuration that allows for the use of various type of materials on the face and edges of the buck, and have the ability to align to the inside of an insulated concrete formed walls so as no external bracing or strapping or support is needed to keep the buck aligned with the wall forms during concrete placement. Having a firm insulation material as the buck is an integral part of the invention in that recesses or shapes in the insulation material can allow the fluid concrete to flow into and around these recesses and shapes and make a bond to the buck. The buck also has the ability to use single or multiple insulation elements to make up the insulating and alignment elements of the buck. |
| US09016010B2 |
Pane module for use in a window
The pane module is adapted to be installed in a window frame and comprises a pane element and a border element (91). The pane element includes at least two sheet elements (92, 94), such as sheets of glass, separated by one or more spacer members (93). The border element (91) is made by molding and surrounds the pane element, at least partially encasing the edge of at least one sheet element. In order to provide the pane module with a number of functionalities traditionally performed by the frame, the pane module comprises at least one functional face. |
| US09016009B2 |
Pane module for use in a window
The pane module is adapted to be installed in a window frame and comprises a pane element and a border element (91). The pane element includes at least two sheet elements (92, 94), such as sheets of glass, separated by one or more spacer members (93). The border element (91) is made by molding and surrounds the pane element, at least partially encasing the edge of at least one sheet element. In order to provide the pane module with a number of functionalities traditionally performed by the frame, the pane module comprises at least one functional face. |
| US09016005B2 |
Process and unit for the attachment of a wind turbine's tower to a foundation and wind turbine incorporating said unit
The invention describes a process and a unit, both enabling to attach a wind turbine tower to a foundation, as well as describes also a wind turbine incorporating the unit. The process features a stage of installation of a support element for the transmission of stresses from the tower to the foundation, followed by a stage of levelling the support element and pouring foundation concrete up to the support element's lower side so that the lower side is adhered to the poured concrete once it has set. The unit comprises at least one support element. |
| US09015999B1 |
Tower with exterior cable support and a modular base
A tower with exterior cable support preferably includes a tower structure, a base plate, a middle support structure, a top plate and at least three cables. The tower structure may be a tapered monopole tower, a step mono tower or a lattice tower. The base plate is attached to a base of the tower. The middle support structure is attached to substantially a midway height of the tower. The top plate is secured to substantially a top of the tower. One end of the at least three cables are secured to the base plate, a perimeter of the at least three cables are supported by the middle support structure and the other end of the at least three cables are secured to the top plate. The modular base preferably includes at least four foundation base members, a tower base member, a perimeter wall base and at least four wall members. |
| US09015998B2 |
Airbeam
An airbeam includes at least a pair of inflatable beams each having an inner sleeve, middle sleeve and outer cover. Each sleeve is stitched to form flat side seams. The sleeves are inverted so that each flat side seam is disposed cantilevered inwardly on the inside of the sleeve. A linear common seam bisects the stitched side edges of the outer cover to form a pair of outer sleeves. One middle sleeve is nested within each outer sleeve. One inner sleeve is nested within each middle sleeve. One inner tube is nested in each inner sleeve. The nesting is arranged so that the side seams of the inner and middle sleeves are adjacent one another or overlap one another along, their entire length and so that the side seams of the outer cover are adjacent or overlap the side seams of the middle sleeve. |
| US09015996B2 |
Tilt-up door
A tilt-up door for a building having an opening, a pair of substantially vertically juxtaposed members, cam surfaces extending laterally from the vertical members at the upper portion and a door sized to span the opening. The door can be pivotally coupled to carriages arranged for vertical movement along the vertical members and can have cam followers extending laterally from the upper portion of the door to contact the cam surfaces. An actuator or actuators can be connected to the carriages to move the carriages along the vertical members. When the actuator or actuators are operated to move the carriages vertically along the members the cam followers can move along the cam surfaces to tilt the door to a horizontal position as the door is moved vertically upward into an open raised position. |
| US09015995B2 |
Security shutter assembly
An invention is provided for a security shutter assembly. The security shutter assembly includes a shutter door having a plurality of operable louvers pivotally mounted between vertical stiles. A locking element is attached to the first vertical stile, and can be set in a locked position that secures the shutter door closed, and an open position that allows the shutter door to be opened. The locking element includes a louver flange portion that extends over the louvers when the louvers are in the closed position and the locking element is in the open position. However, the louvers block the louver flange from being positioned over the louvers when the louvers are in the open position, thus preventing the locking element from being placed in the open, and unlocked, position while the louvers are in the open position. |
| US09015994B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling a movable barrier system
In one embodiment, a method conducted by a movable barrier gateway device is disclosed for controlling a movable barrier, comprising receiving, by a communication interface, a remote command from a remote control device to move the movable barrier, the remote command sent over a network, delaying transmission of a signal to a movable barrier controller to move the movable barrier, by a processor, for a predetermined time period after the remote command is received, detecting movement of the movable barrier within the predetermined time period by a barrier movement detector, and ignoring the remote command by the processor in response to detecting movement of the movable barrier within the predetermined time period. |
| US09015991B2 |
Modular living wall system
Embodiments include but are not limited to modular living wall systems. A module of a modular living wall system may include a frame including a plurality of rails, each rail coupled to another rail by their respective ends, and a fabric arrangement mounted onto the frame and including a first fabric and a second fabric overlaying the first fabric, wherein the first fabric is a hydrophilic mat, and wherein the second fabric includes at least one opening exposing the first fabric and configured to receive a plant. The living wall system includes integrated irrigation. Other embodiments may be described and/or claimed. |
| US09015989B1 |
Ant bait dispenser
An insect toxic bait dispenser has a top with multiple downwardly opening compartments in which toxic bait fluids may be retained by an underlying foil barrier. The top is supported on a base with posts positioned beneath the barrier. Base prongs extend into a top shaft with ledges at different heights, preventing part separation when the barrier is intact above the posts, and, when the top is closed on the base, piercing the foil seal and dispensing liquids into fluid retaining members held in base pockets. To use, a peripheral tear strip is removed from the base, permitting the top to descend on the base causing the posts to puncture the seal, compressing the fluid retaining members against the barrier to receive and dispense toxic bait liquid while retarding the rate of liquid evaporation. The top may be hinged to the base, or urged downwardly by a threaded cap. |
| US09015988B2 |
Insect visual attractant
A visual attractant for attracting a target insect include a substrate having a pixelated pattern portion defined by a plurality of blocks having a characteristic dimension that is within an order of magnitude of the size of the target insect. The plurality of blocks are colored to be highly reflective in a wavelength range selected to attract the target insect. A background portion is lighter in color than the pixelated pattern, to contrast sharply therewith. The blocks are clustered on the substrate such that most of the plurality of blocks define one or more irregular elongate streaks on the substrate. The pixelated pattern may be applied to a strip or to a pillar device, which may be adhesive. |
| US09015978B2 |
Magazine release device for firearms
A magazine release device is affixed to a firearm and operable from either side of the firearm. The device includes a shaft extending between opposite sides of the lower receiver and movable longitudinally between an engaged and a disengaged orientation. A spring biases the shaft into the engaged orientation. A plate, affixed to one end of the shaft, includes an inwardly directed catch that engages with a magazine when the shaft is in the engaged orientation and disengages from the magazine when the shaft is moved to the disengaged orientation. A right hand actuation button is affixed to the shaft on the right side of the lower receiver and a left hand actuation button is affixed to the plate on the left side and each actuation button controls the shaft and plate between the disengaged orientation and the engaged orientation. |
| US09015977B2 |
System for changing the appearance of framed components
A framing system having a base panel assembly configured so that an ornamental/informational object can be incorporated into the base panel assembly so as to be viewable from in front thereof. A frame extends around a peripheral region of the base panel assembly. Connectors on the base panel assembly and frame cooperate so as to allow the base panel assembly and frame to be: a) moved from a separated relationship relative to each other into an operatively joined relationship; and b) releasably maintained in the operatively joined relationship as an incident of the base panel assembly and frame changing from the separated relationship into the operatively joined relationship, without requiring use of any separate fasteners, once the operatively joined relationship is achieved. |
| US09015974B2 |
Displays with magnetic couplings
The perimeter of a hollow-core nonmagnetic frame is magnetized with magnetic inserts. Display panels of corresponding shape and size are provided with a ferromagnetic material along their perimeter so that the display panels can be magnetically retained in position on the frame by magnetically coupling to the magnetic inserts through the nonmagnetic frame. In this manner, aesthetically pleasing seamless multi-panel displays can be created in various shapes and sizes. |
| US09015973B2 |
Display card holder assembly
A display card holder for use on support surfaces, such as golf carts includes a display card retaining sleeve and a sleeve holder. The sleeve holder includes an entrance slot having inwardly extending retention ridges which deform and thereby reduce vibration of the retaining sleeve. The sleeve holder may further include a mechanical locking mechanism for securing the sleeve in the sleeve holder. |
| US09015972B1 |
Vehicle advertising system
Mobile signs/billboards designed to attach to the back end of a vehicle are disclosed comprising a mounting device that is mounted to the back end of a vehicle via the holes for fixing a license plate, and a sign or billboard supported by the mounting device. The signs are designed in a variety of shapes and sizes to provide a display for advertisement or personal messaging. The sign/billboard can be inserted or removed quickly from the mounting device. While the sign/billboard is supported by the mounting device at the back end of the vehicle, the license tag is affixed elsewhere on the mounting device for full viewing and lighting. The mounting device remains on the vehicle until easily removed whereupon the license plate can be reattached to the vehicle. The mounting device comprises an inner pocket for easy insertion and removal of signs and billboards. Lighting may be wired with the vehicle or use solar power or batteries to providing lighting for the sign/billboard. |
| US09015970B1 |
Convertible bucket having folding wings and winglets
A convertible bucket includes a central support frame. A pair of rigid wings are rotationally mounted on laterally opposite sides of the lower end of the support frame for rotation of each wing between their fully lowered and raised positions. The pair of rigid wings define a wide-mouth width therebetween. In the fully lowered position each wing is substantially horizontal when the support frame is substantially vertical, so that, when the wings are both in their fully lowered position, the wide-mouth width is maximized. A winglet may be mounted at a distal end of each wing so as to provide for containment of a load held in the bucket when at least one wing is in its fully lowered position. |
| US09015969B2 |
Shovel with pivoting bucket
A mining shovel including a base, a boom, a first member moveably coupled to the boom, a bucket, and a pivot actuator. The base includes a hoist drum for paying out and reeling in a hoist rope. The boom includes a first end coupled to the base and a second end opposite the first end. The hoist rope extends over the second end of the boom. The first member includes a first end and a second end. The bucket is pivotably coupled to the second end of the first member. The pivot actuator moves the bucket relative to the second end of the first member, and the pivot actuator includes a first end coupled to the first member. |
| US09015962B2 |
Article of footwear with support element
An article of footwear with an undulating sole provides a different and unique ride and/or feel to the article of footwear, while also providing a unique aesthetic appeal and adequate cushioning and support. The midsole has an undulating shape substantially similar to a sine wave with a series alternating peaks and troughs, and may include one or more support elements disposed on the midsole to provide desired stiffness or cushioning properties to the midsole. |
| US09015955B2 |
Collapsible drying container
The present document describes a container for storing and drying garments or sport equipment, the container comprising an external envelope comprising a resistant material; and a ventilation structure through which air can be blown for drying the garments or sports equipment, the ventilation structure supporting the external envelope, the ventilation structure comprising hanging elements for hanging the garments or sports equipment thereon, the ventilation structure capable of adopting a retracted position and an extended position in which the ventilation structure occupies more space than in the retracted position. |
| US09015953B2 |
Touch probe and related checking method
A touch probe (1; 1′; 1″; 1′″) for applications in machine tools or measuring machines includes a support frame (2) with a protective casing (3), and a movable armset (5) with a feeler (11) to touch a part to be checked (13). The probe includes a detection device (23) with a laminar piezoelectric transducer (25) made of polymeric material, such as polyvinylidene fluoride, which is connected to the support frame and fixed at a bearing and locating area (7), on which the movable armset rests in a position defined by an isostatic rest system (17). Conditioning electronics (30) connected to the support frame include processing means for processing a force signal (M) provided by the detection device, comparing it with a threshold value (S) and generating a touch signal (T). The conditioning electronics include differential charge amplifiers (3) and a processing system (55) to dynamically vary the threshold value depending on the most recent values of the force signal detected. |
| US09015943B2 |
Holder for pipe in heat exchanger, method and device for manufacturing heat exchanger using said holder, and air conditioner and/or outdoor unit having said heat exchanger
The current invention provides a tube-grasping body for grasping an insert tube in a heat exchanger, and heat exchanger production methods and apparatuses utilizing the tube-grasping body, wherein the tube-grasping body enables to enlarge and connect an insert tube to a heat radiating fin for producing a heat exchanger, still keeping the total length of insert tubes at an almost same level even after the enlargement; and the tube-grasping body is connected at its exterior to the guide-pipe. |
| US09015942B2 |
Method of treating an aerofoil
A method of imparting deep compressive residual stress to an aerofoil, the method involves determining a stress map for the aerofoil for stress generated by Foreign Object (FOD) impact, a stress map for the aerofoil of high cycle fatigue, a stress map for the aerofoil of low cycle fatigue and determining a combined stress map by combining the stress map of FOD impact, the stress map of high cycle fatigue and the stress map of low cycle fatigue. A zone is then defined on the aerofoil from the combined stress map for receiving the deep residual compressive stress, and compressive residual stress imparted to the defined zone. |
| US09015941B2 |
Method of repairing honeycomb core using pourable structural foam
A method of the present disclosure includes of repairing a core stiffened structure with structural foam. Another method includes splicing core members together using structural foam. Another method includes joining a core member to a structure using structural foam. Another method includes using structural foam to stabilize a core member during a machining process. Another method includes stabilizing a core member with structural foam to prevent the core member from crushing in autoclave pressure. The present disclosure further includes a core stiffened structure have a core member with structural foam therein. |
| US09015938B2 |
Method of fabricating a crushable connector interface
A connector is disclosed. The connector includes a conductive housing. The conductive housing includes a wall region enclosing a space for receiving an adapter. The conductive housing also includes an annular end piece extending radially inward from a first end of the wall region and terminating the space. The annular end piece includes a flat annular surface, and a raised deformable annulus mounted on the flat annular surface. The raised deformable annulus is of a height such that an insertion of the adapter into the space deforms the raised deformable annulus to generate a physical contact connection between the flat annular surface and the adapter. |
| US09015931B2 |
Retention-extraction device for removable cards in a chassis
A retention-extraction device is provided for a removable card in a chassis. The device includes an actuation rod having a cam slot, the actuation rod configured to provide linear movement along the length of the actuation rod, and an extraction lever operatively connected to a proximal end of the actuation rod and pivotally secured to the chassis. The device also includes a bell crank with a cam follower that is configured to ride in the cam slot and a latch hook that pivots between an open and closed position based on the motion of the bell crank. The linear movement of the actuation rod causes the extraction lever to apply a force to a portion of the card and causes the latch hook to pivot to an open position to allow removal of the card. |
| US09015929B2 |
Apparatus and method for inserting preformed electrical bar conductors in a twisting device
An apparatus for inserting a preformed electrical bar conductor into a twisting device of the conductor, the apparatus comprising: a supply device that arranges the preformed bar conductor into a supply direction (X-X), the preformed bar conductor having two rectilinear arms that are parallel to each other and connected to each other by a curved portion; a transfer device that draws the conductor from the supply device into a grip position in which the conductor is arranged along the supply direction (X-X) and rotates it 90 degrees into an insertion position in which the conductor is arranged along an insertion direction (Y-Y), perpendicular to the supply direction (X-X) and parallel to a pocket on the twisting device; and an insertion device that inserts the conductor into the twisting device, the insertion device equipped with thrust means that move the conductor along the insertion direction (Y-Y) until the conductor is at least partially inserted in the pocket. |
| US09015927B2 |
Method for fabricating synthetic antiferromagnetic (SAF) device
A method for fabricating a synthetic antiferromagnetic device, includes depositing a reference layer on a first tantalum layer and including depositing a first cobalt iron boron layer, depositing a second cobalt iron boron layer on the first cobalt iron boron layer, depositing a second Ta layer on the second cobalt iron boron layer, depositing a magnesium oxide spacer layer on the reference layer and depositing a cap layer on the magnesium oxide spacer layer. |
| US09015926B2 |
Method for producing a motor rotor
In a method for producing a motor rotor, a lamination stack made up of stacked thin steel sheets each formed with a through hole, the lamination stack having a shaft bore formed of the through holes aligned with one another, is retained as a rotor core in a thickness direction with a pair of jigs from both sides, and a shaft is inserted into the shaft bore and joined to the lamination stack by shrink fitting. Each jig includes a shaft hole, a radially inner peripheral portion for holding a peripheral edge of the shaft bore of the lamination stack at a position, in a radial direction of the shaft hole, surrounding the shaft hole radially inside; and a radially outer peripheral portion for holding the outer periphery of the lamination stack. The radially inner and outer peripheral portions are positioned at different heights in a jig height direction. |
| US09015923B2 |
Heat exchanger tube, heat exchanger tube assembly, and methods of making the same
A tube for use in a heat exchanger tube assembly is made by forming a round tube, reducing the diameter of an end section of the round tube, and flattening another section of the round tube. A transition zone is partially created by reducing of the diameter, and is further created by flattening the tube. |
| US09015922B2 |
Bone implants and method of manufacture
An implant device for humans or mammals has a body structure having an exposed surface and one or more selected portions of the exposed surface having a bone formation enhancing 3-dimensional pattern. The exposed surface can be on exterior portions of the body structure or internal portions of the body structure or both. The one or more selected portions of the exposed portions having the bone formation enhancing 3-dimensional patterns are in the external exposed surfaces or in the internal exposed surfaces or both internal and external exposed surfaces. |
| US09015919B2 |
Method for sealing a reusable electrical surgical instrument
A method for sealing surgical instruments, particularly reusable electric surgical instruments sterilized using an autoclave process, is disclosed. The method having the steps of providing at least two body shells having a runner system on the mating surfaces, aligning the body shells, securing the body shells in position relative to each other, inserting an injection device into the runner system, injecting an elastomer material from the injection device into the runner system, removing the injection device from the runner system, and curing the elastomer material. The elastomer material seals the housing chamber of the instrument. The elastomer material may bond the body shells together. |
| US09015914B2 |
Method for manufacturing electronic component
A method for manufacturing an electronic component includes a first step of preparing a piezoelectric body with a flat surface, a second step of implanting ions into the piezoelectric body such that an ion-implanted layer is formed in the piezoelectric body, a third step of forming sacrificial layers on the flat surface of the piezoelectric body, a fourth step of forming an insulating body over the flat surface of the piezoelectric body and the sacrificial layers to form a piezoelectric structure, a fifth step of dividing the piezoelectric body at the ion-implanted layer to form a piezoelectric laminar structure in which a piezoelectric film separated from the piezoelectric body is bonded to the insulating body, a sixth step of forming electrodes on portions of a division surface of the piezoelectric film, and a seventh step of removing the sacrificial layers from the piezoelectric laminar structure. |
| US09015913B2 |
Buckle device
Foreign objects that have entered inside an insertion body are suppressed from reaching a detector side. In a buckle device, when a tongue plate is attached, an ejector slides downwards inside a buckle body, opening a through hole in a partitioning wall of a lower cover at the upper side. A main body portion of a slider member of a buckle switch is inserted into the through hole, closing off a portion of the through hole that has been opened by the ejector. Hence it is suppressed that foreign objects discharged through an insertion through hole in the buckle body to outside the buckle body pass through the through hole and reach the buckle switch side further than the partitioning wall. |
| US09015912B2 |
Side release buckle
A side release buckle includes: a plug; and a socket, the plug including: a base; a pair of legs; and engaging portions, the socket including: a body; an insertion opening; a housing space; engaged portions; and a pair of guide surfaces. The guide surfaces, which are formed on an inner surface of the housing space and extend in an insertion direction of the legs while being opposed to each other, each include: a squeezing portion formed continuously with corresponding one of the engaged portions; and a guiding portion formed between the squeezing portion and the insertion opening. An interval between the guiding portions near the engaged portions is wider than an interval between the squeezing portions near the engaged portions. An inclination angle of each guiding portion to an insertion direction of the plug is smaller than an inclination angle of each of the squeezing portion to the insertion direction. |
| US09015908B2 |
Liquid-tight slide fastener
There is provided a liquid-tight slide fastener capable of sufficiently ensuring waterproof property regardless of where fastener elements are formed and capable of sufficiently ensuring attachment strength of the fastener elements to fastener tapes provided with liquid-tight layers. There is also provided a manufacturing method for the liquid-tight slide fastener. The liquid-tight slide fastener includes a pair of fastener tapes that include a pair of tape members, core sections respectively provided on opposing tape edges of the pair of tape members, and liquid-tight layers formed on one side of the pair of tape members; a pair of fastener element rows; and a slider. The liquid-tight layers are formed with gaps to the core sections in a width direction of the fastener tapes. The fastener elements are attached to the core sections. |
| US09015902B2 |
Cleaner-head for a vacuum cleaner
The invention relates to a cleaner head for a vacuum cleaner. The cleaner head has a housing and a soleplate assembly hingedly connected to the housing. The soleplate assembly and the housing are held closed by a releasable catch, which is pivotally mounted to one of the housing or the soleplate for rotation between a locking position and a release position. In accordance with the invention, the catch incorporates a first cam, which cam engages the other of the soleplate or the housing as the catch is rotated from the locking position towards the release position, in order to force apart the housing and the soleplate. |
| US09015900B2 |
Device for indicating amount of collected dust, and electric cleaner with same
Collected-dust-amount indicating device (16) includes a pointer tube, at least a part of which is configured with a transparent material. The pointer tube includes a first end portion to which a first pressure is applied, and a second end portion to which a second pressure is applied. In the inside of the pointer tube, a pointer is disposed which is displaced by a differential pressure between the first pressure applied to the first end portion and the second pressure applied to the second end portion. Moreover, a pointer spring is disposed to be accommodated in the pointer tube such that the pointer spring biases the pointer toward larger one of the first pressure and the second pressure. |
| US09015894B2 |
Extendable application device
An extendable applicator device which allows a user to apply soap, lotion, medication, or various other substances to areas of the body which may be difficult to reach. The device can function as a traditional scrubbing or application device but may also be extended so that the user's back, shoulders, or other areas can be addressed as well. Exemplary embodiments use an elastic member that can elongate to allow an extended reach. Other embodiments use a locking mechanism or a retracting assembly to allow the device to extend. |
| US09015890B1 |
Biodegradable toilet snake
The biodegradable toilet snake is a tool for dislodging clogs in drainpipes. Once a drainpipe clog is dislodged, the snake is detached and left in the drainpipe where the snake dissolves in water. |
| US09015889B1 |
Snake tool adaptor
A snake tool adaptor capable of coupling commercially available heavy duty drain cleaning cables and attachments normally associated with heavy electric drain cleaners with a portable rotary driving tool such as a hand-held drill. Adaptors of the subject invention include a hand grip having a proximal end terminating in a shank for operable attachment to a the chuck of a power drill, and a distal end terminating in coupling means for removable mating engagement with various heavy duty drain cleaning cables and their attachments normally associated with heavy electric drain cleaners. |
| US09015887B1 |
Floor treatment apparatus
The present invention relates generally to an apparatus for cleaning or otherwise treating a floored surface that includes a platform adapted to support the weight of an operator. In addition, one embodiment of the present invention is capable of generally performing 360° turns to facilitate the treatment of difficult to access portions of the floored surface. |
| US09015865B2 |
Notched collar with snaps
A pair of notches or slits in a collar can prevent the formation of bulky crests or wrinkling when the collar is arranged in an outer open ‘continental style’ under a jacket, however there is also a propensity for such a collar to curl up at the notches. The invention herein discloses the use of a fastening means to prevent the slit borders, forming the edge surfaces of each back section of the collar, from curling up from the shirt surface. The fastener means are located on each side of the collar, such that one member is located on the inner surface of the back collar where the outside edge meets the base of the slit edge and the other member is located on the outer surface of the collar band. |
| US09021607B2 |
Advanced user interface and control paradigm including digital rights management features for multiple service operator extended functionality offers
A first user may provide protected content to a second user. The user accesses the rights required by the protected content and the rights held by the second user. If the rights of the second user are equal or greater to those required by the protected content, the first user may then provide the protected content to the second user. Additionally, methods and systems for presenting information regarding multiple categories of content are provided. In addition, methods and systems that suggest activities by a user in relation to content and determined affinity for content in relation to user contacts are provided. A user interface application is provided that operates to display status and/or historical information regarding content, suggested activities, and suggested contacts. The user can interact with the interface to access detailed information and to act on suggestions. In addition the user can interact with the interface to share content to other users, including users participating in real time communication sessions. |
| US09021606B1 |
Systems and methods providing format data
Computer applications may generate event data based on a large volume of different types of record data. Described herein are systems, methods, and devices for enabling a computing node to implement new functions for dynamically consuming the event data. In one example, the computing node may implement a new function using an expression language, without modifying predefined hard coded functions. |
| US09021604B2 |
Method to control the access of personal data of a user
A system and method give a user control of personal data. A trusted center comprises a database for personal data, access conditions for the personal data, and a counter. A user loads personal data into the database and assigns access conditions to said data. The personal data is divided into at least two categories, each associated with a user's value. A third party requests access to personal data of a plurality of users, the request comprising search criteria. The trusted center identifies a first set of users matching the search criteria and returns the quantity of users in, and a sum of user's values for, the first set. The third party acknowledges all or part of the sum, and the trusted center returns the personal data of a second set of users for which the sum covers the user's values and updates the counters of user in the second set. |
| US09021603B2 |
Non-volatile memory for anti-cloning and authentication method for the same
A method and a non-volatile memory apparatus for cloning prevention is provided. The non-volatile memory apparatus includes an Enhanced Media Identification (EMID) area, which is located in a specific area of the non-volatile memory, and stores an identification for identifying the non-volatile memory; and an EMID encoder for modifying the identification by a preset operation in conjunction with an arbitrary value, wherein the EMID area includes a first area in which reading by an external device is prevented, and a second area in which reading from the non-volatile memory by the external device is permitted in response to a read command. |
| US09021601B2 |
Strong authentication token usable with a plurality of independent application providers
The present invention defines a strong authentication token for generating different dynamic credentials for different application providers comprising an input interface providing an output representing an application provider indicator; a secret key storage for storing one or more secret keys; a variability source for providing a dynamic variable value; a key providing agent for providing an application provider specific key as a function of said application provider indicator using one or more keys stored in said secret key storage; a cryptographic agent for cryptographically combining said application provider specific key with said dynamic variable value using symmetric cryptography; a transformation agent coupled to said cryptographic agent for transforming an output of said cryptographic agent to produce a dynamic credential; and an output interface to output said dynamic credential.The present invention defines furthermore a method to manage the secret keys of strong authentication tokens that can generate dynamic credentials for more than one supported application provider or application provider group using different secret keys for each supported application provider or application provider group comprising generating for each of a batch of strong authentication tokens a token specific master key; personalizing each token of said batch with the token specific master key associated with said token; generating for each of a plurality of supported application providers or application provider groups a set of application provider specific token keys, one application provider specific token key for each token of said batch, whereby each application provider specific token key of each of said sets is derived from that token's token specific master key and a unique identifier or indicator of that application provider or application provider group; providing to each application provider or an entity that is responsible for the verification on behalf of said application provider of the dynamic credentials that are generated for said application provider, the corresponding set of application provider specific token keys. |
| US09021599B2 |
Protecting privacy via a gateway
A system and methods for protecting privacy via a gateway are provided. The system includes a data store comprising a computer readable medium storing a program of instructions for performing the protection of privacy via the gateway; a processor that executes the program of instructions; an event detection unit to detect an event behind the gateway; a correlation unit to detect a source associated with the detected event; a semi-stable identification unit to assign a semi-stable identification for the associated source with the detected event; a vector assigning unit to assign a vector to data associated with the semi-stable identification, the vector being related to the source independent any personal identification information (PII); and a communication unit to transmit the vector to instigate an action. |
| US09021598B1 |
Managing application events
Systems, methods, and computer-readable media for managing application events are provided. In embodiments, a notifier is received that indicates a usage of an application installed on a user device and a date associated with the usage. A verification notifier is also received that verifies that the user device is registered in association with the application and indicates a date associated with the verification. The date associated with the usage and the date associated with the verification are compared to determine whether the dates occur within a predetermined time period relative to one another. In such a case, it might be determined that a provider of the application installed on the user device should be rewarded. |
| US09021597B2 |
Security arrangements for extended USB protocol stack of a USB host system
Security arrangements for a universal serial bus (USB) protocol stack of a USB host system are provided. The security arrangements prevent an unauthorized or suspicious USB device from communicating with the host system, detect suspicious activity originating from a device which is already communicating with the host system and may provide notification to a user. |
| US09021591B2 |
Distributed network protection
A method for processing frames transmitted in a network including nodes and network segments connecting the nodes. Frames transmitted over network segments are detected. Frame information from each detected frame is stored in a frame information repository. A stored hierarchical data structure includes vectors specifying frame information defining frames permitted in the network, classes including vectors with constraints on the vectors, and patterns including classes with constraints on the classes. The frame information in the detected frames may not match the frame information specified in the vectors. The vectors, if matched by the frame information in the detected frames, may not satisfy the constraints in the classes. The vectors, if matched by the frame information in the detected frames, may satisfy the constraints in the classes, and the classes whose constraints are satisfied by the matched vectors may not satisfy the constraints in the patterns. |
| US09021590B2 |
Spyware detection mechanism
A system and method that facilitates and effectuates detection of malware secreted and/or hidden in plain sight on a machine. The system and method in order to achieve its aims generates a list of all loaded modules, identifies from the list a set of modules common to more than a threshold number of processes, and eliminates from the list those modules included in an authentication list. The resultant list is prioritized based, in one instance, on the number of occurrences a particular module makes in the resultant list, and thereafter the list is distributed analyst workstations. |
| US09021585B1 |
JTAG fuse vulnerability determination and protection using a trusted execution environment
A method of configuring a trusted security zone into a portable electronic device. The method comprises executing instructions on a processor of the portable electronic device that determine the state of a JTAG (JTAG) port of the portable electronic device, if the JTAG port is determined to be enabled, executing instructions on the processor preventing configuration of the trusted security zone into the portable electronic device, and if the JTAG port is determined to be disabled, configuring the trusted security zone into the portable electronic device, whereby a vulnerability to hacking the trusted security zone via an enabled JTAG port is reduced. |
| US09021584B2 |
System and method for assessing danger of software using prioritized rules
Disclosed are system, method and computer program product for assessing security danger of software. The system collects information about a suspicious, high-danger software objects, including one or more malicious characteristics of the software object, security rating of the software object, and information about one or more security rating rules used in assessing the security rating of the software object. The system then determines whether the suspicious object is a clean (i.e., harmless). When the suspicious object is determined to be clean, the system identifies one or more unique, non-malicious characteristics of the software object and generates a new security rating rule that identifies the software object as clean based on the one or more selected non-malicious characteristics. The system then assigns high priority ranking to the new security rating rule to ensure that the rule precedes all other rules. |
| US09021583B2 |
System and method for network security including detection of man-in-the-browser attacks
A method is performed in a network security system implemented in a computer or electronic device that is coupled to secured online resources for detecting unauthorized accesses of those secured online resources. The method includes monitoring a user activity session. It is determined whether the user activity session is indicative of a hidden session by an attacker, where the determination includes comparing the user activity session to an average user activity session. |
| US09021581B1 |
Methods, systems, and computer program products for updating user permissions associated with object locations when an object changes locations in a virtualization environment
A method of managing a virtualization system includes detecting a change in location of an object within a virtualization environment, determining user permission rights for a current location of the object responsive to detecting the change in location of the object, and updating a record of user permission rights with the user permission rights for the current location of the object. Related systems and computer program products are also disclosed. |
| US09021579B2 |
Smartphone data backup and restoration system
A Smartphone data backup and restoration system on a physical layer is connected to a Smartphone through a data transmission line, and the data backup and restoration system and the Smartphone are identified and paired by a datalink layer and a network layer, and then a transport layer transmits an identification program to the Smartphone, and a session layer completes a trusted connection according to a TCP communication and transmission protocol such as USBMUXD, ADB, MTP, and PTP, so that the Smartphone is capable of performing a data transmission operation including data backup and restoration at a presentation layer and an application layer to improve the convenience of operation and use. |
| US09021578B1 |
Systems and methods for securing internet access on restricted mobile platforms
A computer-implemented method for securing Internet access on restricted mobile platforms may include identifying an attempt by a mobile computing system to establish a virtual private network connection with a security server and, in response to identifying the attempt, (1) assigning an Internet Protocol address to the mobile computing system and (2) identifying a security filter customized to filter communications for an account associated with the mobile computing system. The method may also include (1) receiving, via the virtual private network connection, a request for an Internet resource and (2) providing, via the virtual private network connection, a response to the request to the mobile computing system based at least in part on the security filter. Various other methods, systems, and computer-readable media are also disclosed. |
| US09021576B2 |
Apparatus and method for sharing of an encryption key in an ad-hoc network
It is so arranged that an encryption key can be shared with a communication apparatus that participates in a network anew, even in an ad-hoc-mode type of environment. In order to achieve this, a communication apparatus determines whether it possesses an encryption key shared with another communication apparatus and, in accordance with the result of the determination, initiates sharing process for sharing the encryption key with a first communication apparatus from the communication apparatus after the sharing process for sharing the encryption key has been initiated from the first communication apparatus. |
| US09021574B1 |
Configuration management for network activity detectors
Network activity detectors, such as firewalls, communicate with one another to form a Unified Threat Management System. A first network activity detector sends a request for configuration settings to a second network activity detector. The second network activity detector sends a set of configuration settings in response to the request. The configuration settings include information for detecting digital security threats and/or for responding to detected digital security threats. In this way, configuration settings are propagated from one network activity detector to another so that network activity detectors within a UTMS system are configured consistently, e.g., have up-to-date information for detecting and/or responding to digital security threats. |
| US09021573B2 |
Control of security application in a LAN from outside the LAN
A method and a system are disclosed that enable an address at the edge router to be used to establish a multi-pipe virtual private network (MVPN) connecting controllers to multiple web enabled end user devices (EUDs) inside a security protected local area network (LAN). The EUDs connect to a central server (CS) outside the LAN during configuration establishing registration and identity (ID) for each EUD. Once the EUDs establish connection from inside the LAN, the CS is enabled to communicate with the EUDs using the address and ID provided during registration. The CS then acts as a facilitator establishing secure VPN connection between controllers in the cloud and the EUDs inside the LAN. CS further acts as a pass through for those LANs that do not allow direct connections to controllers outside the LAN. The CS continues to monitor the health of the overall system once connectivity is established. |
| US09021571B2 |
Method and system for processing a data transfer related to a data-storing card
In a method for processing a data transfer, an electronic device accesses card-specific data and a card account number from a data-storing card. The electronic device generates a device-generated authentication number which is associated with the data transfer, and which is transmitted, together with the card account number and the card-specific data, to a network platform. The network platform compares an inputted authentication number from a portable device and the device-generated authentication number, and transmits to-be-transferred data to the portable device when the authentication numbers correspond with each other. |
| US09021568B2 |
Verification method for verifying validity of program, and verification system
A verification method pertaining to the present invention is executed by a terminal device and is used for determining the validity of a control program used for remotely controlling an appliance via a server. Verification data generated from: a unique identifier which is assigned to a user of the terminal device; a parameter which is generated by the server device and is assigned to the control program; and partial data which is at least a portion of the control program, is compared with comparison data generated from: the ID of the user stored in the server device; the parameter; and a portion of a program corresponding to the partial data of the control program. When a mismatch occurs, the remote control of the appliance will be prohibited. |
| US09021563B2 |
Accessory interface system
The accessory is capable of connecting to a host device, which is physically separated from the accessory. The accessory includes a first communication module and a contactless module. The first communication module is used to wirelessly coupled to the host device, and receive a first credential from the host device. The contactless module is coupled to the first communication module. The contactless module includes a controller, a first security element, an antenna, and a storage unit. The controller receives the credential from the first communication module. The first security element is coupled to the controller for receiving and storing the first credential. The antenna is coupled to the controller to wirelessly communicate with a first reader for a first application by using the stored first credential. The storage unit stores at least one first transaction record generated during the first application is operating. |
| US09021559B1 |
Server-based architecture for securely providing multi-domain applications
A Multilevel Security (MLS) server provides MLS functionality to single-level applications running on a remote Multiple Independent Level Security (MILS) or MLS client device. More specifically, the MLS server provides a plurality of different security domains in which applications can execute. The client device executes a single-level application in a first security domain, the single-level application not natively capable of communicating with other domains. The single-level application in the first security domain sends a request to the MLS server. The MLS server receives the request, passing it to all applicable domains, including a second security domain, where it is duly executed. The MLS server then provides the results of the request execution—if any—back to an appropriate application on the client device. For example, the single-level application in the first security domain can display the aggregated results obtained from multiple distinct security domains, or an application running in the second security domain can display the results. |
| US09021557B2 |
System and method for security using a sibling smart card
A system and method for realizing specific security features for a mobile device that may store sensitive and private data by providing secured communications to a paired remote device. In this respect, both the mobile device (which may be a mobile phone, for example) and the paired remote device (which may be a keychain, for example) include a SIM card that may have identification data stored therein. Once paired, the two devices may communicate encrypted security messages back and forth in order to implement various security measures to protect data and wireless communications. Such messages may be generated from initial information known only to each respective device such as a randomly generated offset number and a common time reference. |
| US09021556B2 |
System and method for virtual device communication filtering
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a method and system for virtual device communication filtering. The method includes receiving, within an electronic system, an instantiation request for a first virtual device and determining whether the first virtual device and a second virtual device are allowed to communicate based on an authorization record datastore. The method further includes modifying an authorization record of the authorization record datastore. The modifying comprises setting an indicator of a data filtering module to filter communication between the first virtual device and the second virtual device. A response can then be sent to the instantiation request. |
| US09021555B2 |
Apparatus, method, and program for validating user
User validation accuracy is improved without inconveniencing a user. When an authentication request packet is received from a terminal and the authentication is successful based on a user ID and a password, an HTTP header, user-agent information, and access source IP address are extracted from the packet, and user authentication is performed by verifying the IP address and the user-agent information against usage history information where at most two sets of the IP address and the user-agent information extracted from the authentication request packet which is received from the same user previously are registered. When the set of the IP address and the UA information corresponding to the new extracted IP address and the new extracted UA information is registered in the usage history information, the authentication is successful, and the usage history information is overwritten with the new IP address and the new UA information. |
| US09021552B2 |
User authentication for intermediate representational state transfer (REST) client via certificate authority
The present description refers to a computer implemented method, computer program product, and computer system for receiving a resource request at a representational state transfer (REST) client from a user, the resource request including a user ID, determining, by the REST client, a key pair including a public key and a corresponding private key that are associated with the user ID, obtaining, by the REST client, a certificate associated with the user ID that is signed by a certificate authority and based on at least the user ID and the public key associated with the user ID, impersonating, by the REST client, the user to a REST server using the certificate and the private key associated with the user ID, and accessing, by the REST client on behalf of the user, using a stateless protocol with the REST server, the requested resource. |
| US09021551B2 |
Information processing apparatus, authentication control method, and authentication control program
An information processing apparatus includes a user information managing part that manages registered user information, an authentication part that performs user authentication using the registered user information managed by the user information managing part, an external authentication part that controls an external computer to perform authentication on user information input via an input interface and acquires authenticated user information from the computer when the input user information is successfully authenticated by the computer, and a registration part that registers the authenticated user information acquired by the external authentication part in the user information managing part as the registered user information. |
| US09021550B2 |
Optimization of workflow access control
A computer-implemented method for executing a workflow is described, wherein the workflow comprises a set of individual activities, the method comprising the operations of deriving a global workflow access type and receiving a request to execute a workflow. Execution of access control based on the global workflow access type is performed. If access is allowable, the user is authorized to execute all activities belonging to the workflow. If access is not allowable, the user is rejected before executing the workflow. |
| US09021549B2 |
Method of generating security rule-set and system thereof
There are provided a method of generation of a security rule-set and a system thereof. The method includes: obtaining a group of log records of communication events resulting from traffic related to the security gateway; generating a preliminary rule-set of permissive rules, said set covering the obtained group of log records; generating, with the help of mapping the generated preliminary rule-set to the obtained group of log records, a rule-set of non-overlapping rules covering the group of log records; and generating an operational rule-set by processing the generated rule-set of non-overlapping rules, said processing including mapping the generated rule-set of non-overlapping rule to the obtained group of log records. |
| US09021548B2 |
Method, apparatus and computer program to transition a user device security module to an unlocked lifecycle state and to a locked lifecycle state
A method, computer program, apparatus and a secure module are described. By example, in the method there are steps of receiving a request from a first entity for a secure module to enter an unlock lifecycle state; requesting confirmation to enter the unlock lifecycle state; and if the request is confirmed, transitioning the secure module from a current lifecycle state to the unlock lifecycle state. |
| US09021546B1 |
Systems and methods for workload security in virtual data centers
A computer-implemented method for workload security in virtual data centers may include (1) identifying a virtual data center that hosts a plurality of workloads sharing a common computing infrastructure, (2) identifying a workload within the plurality of workloads that is subject to a sensitivity assessment that pertains to an application of at least one security policy to at least one computing resource used by the workload, (3) performing the sensitivity assessment for the workload based at least in part on an attribute of an allocated resource within the common computing infrastructure provisioned to the workload, and (4) applying the security policy to the computing resource based at least in part on the sensitivity assessment for the workload. Various other methods, systems, and encoded computer-readable media are also disclosed. |
| US09021543B2 |
Highly scalable audience measurement system with client event pre-processing
Methods of reporting Audience Measurement System (AMS) viewership events on a client device and systems implementing the method are disclosed. The method comprises the steps of receiving at least one event message on a client device, wherein each event message is a data signal indicating an occurrence of an event, processing the at least one event message on the client device to create an AMS viewership report, and transmitting the AMS viewership report. |
| US09021542B2 |
Apparatus and method for providing media content
A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a set top box having a controller to receive a selection of media content that has finished being broadcast where the selection is of the previously broadcast media content, transmit a request for the media content, and receive the media content for presentation at the display device, where the media content includes a plurality of segments, where one or more of the segments is provided by each of a plurality of digital video recorders (DVR's) that have recorded the media content, where the DVR's are remote from the set top box, and where the plurality of segments are merged prior to presentation by the set top box. Other embodiments are disclosed. |
| US09021537B2 |
Pre-buffering audio streams
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for identifying and pre-buffering audio/video stream pairs. The method includes the steps of predictively identifying for pre-buffering at least one audio/video stream pair that may be selected for playback by a user subsequent to a currently playing audio/video stream pair, computing a first rate for pre-buffering an audio portion of the at least one audio/video stream pair and a second rate for pre-buffering a video portion of the at least one audio/video stream pair, downloading the audio portion at the first rate and downloading the video portion at the second rate, and storing the downloaded audio portion and the downloaded video portion in a content buffer. |
| US09021536B2 |
Process for subtitling streaming video content
A system and process is provided in which original video or dialog content is securely received from the content owner. Subtitle language data is derived, translated, stored and served on a separate database for synchronous playback with the content in video streaming, downloading or online TV following the activation of an option by the end user through a media player. |
| US09021535B2 |
Methods and apparatus for providing virtual content over a network
Methods and apparatus for selecting, purchasing and delivering content to users of a network so that the user has “virtual” ownership of and access to the content, thereby obviating the need for physical media (e.g., DVDs or CDs). In an exemplary embodiment, the network comprises a hybrid fiber coax (HFC) network, and on-demand (OD) sessions or broadcast modes are used to deliver the virtual content stored at the head-end (or hub site) to the requesting owner. The purchased content is associated with one or more users when stored, thereby providing the owner(s) unlimited access thereto, without the costs and effort associated with renting/purchasing and maintaining DVDs. The content may also comprise new release content, which would otherwise not be available over the network at that time but for the purchase and delivery mechanisms of the invention. Various other complementary features for enhancing the user's virtual ownership experience are also disclosed. |
| US09021534B2 |
Guided television method and system
There is provided a method for guiding viewer selection of television content. The method comprises receiving a request for delivery of television content from a remote system; establishing an identity of the remote system; accessing a viewing history corresponding to the remote system in response to receiving the request; identifying a desirable subset of content items from available television content based upon a first plurality of discrimination criteria including the viewing history; determining a display subset of content items from the desirable subset, to be provided for selection by the remote system, according to a second plurality of discrimination criteria including the viewing history; and delivering an interface to the remote system for enabling a viewer of the remote system to select content items from the display subset. |
| US09021533B2 |
Method and apparatus to purchase contents by using portable storage medium or via network
Users of a method and apparatus to purchase (e.g., rent or buy) contents using a portable storage medium, via a network or the like. Contents purchased using embodiments of a method and apparatus may be developed to be automatically deleted or to be non-reproducible after being reproduced one time or after a predetermined period. Accordingly, users do not need to return borrowed or purchased contents. Also an owner of a contents rental shop may prevent contents from being unfairly reproduced. Further, user inconvenience due to the conventional manner in which users have to memorize information related to the contents and visit a rental shop to obtain desired contents may be avoided or decreased. Portable storage mediums or network resources of exemplary methods and apparatuses may be repeatedly used (e.g., without limitation), and thus may contribute to the saving of resources. |
| US09021529B2 |
Content recordation techniques
Content recordation techniques are described. In an implementation, a method includes querying electronic program guide (EPG) data to determine if a content item described in a recording document is available for recording. If the content item is available, a reference is added to a recording list for causing recordation of the content item. |
| US09021528B2 |
System and method for construction, delivery and display of iTV applications that blend programming information of on-demand and broadcast service offerings
A user interface allows for blending of television program choices from which a viewer may select, the blending representing options for linear and non-linear programming presented together within a single hierarchy of a designated category. The blending may further include managed content relevant to the designated category, where desired. Such designated categories may include television programming categories and/or content categories. The options for linear and non-linear programming may be presented together within a single screen of the user interface. |
| US09021523B2 |
Virtual channel table for a broadcast protocol and method of broadcasting and receiving broadcast signals using the same
A virtual channel table for broadcasting protocol and a method for broadcasting by using the virtual channel table includes identification information identifying and permitting discrimination of active and inactive channels contained in the virtual channel table. At a receiver, the virtual channel table transmitted from the transmitting side is parsed, thereby determining whether the current received channel is an active or inactive channel. |
| US09021520B2 |
Systems and methods for providing and processing print-augmented broadcast signals
A process for providing a print-augmented broadcast signal for transmission to one or more convention broadcast receiver includes receiving a broadcast signal comprising (i) standard content for a particular broadcast program and (ii) a non-content portion. Supplemental content which is associated with the standard content of the particular broadcast program is additionally received. Next, the supplemental content is combined onto the non-content portion of the broadcast signal to form a print-augmented broadcast signal, the print-augmented broadcast signal comprising the standard content, which can be rendered on a conventional broadcast receiver, and the supplemental content, which is printable on-demand at a destination conventional broadcast receiver substantially concurrently with the rendering of the standard content. |
| US09021518B2 |
System to avoid viewing commercials in real time
Presented is a system that allows a user who subscribes to the system to avoid viewing commercials with unacceptable content (e.g. alcohol related, sexual content) during real-time television broadcasts. The system has a residential component consisting of a control unit having a user interface a local database and a specialized router, a remote processing component having monitoring stations where the monitored network feeds are processed, and a system DBMS component that stores channel and user information in real time. The control unit is connected to the internet, such as via a wireless connection on the user's network, to retrieve remotely-stored data obtained through monitored network feeds. The control unit retrieves real-time data associated with viewable content and applies logic to switch the viewing channel or signal source for display on the television. The monitored network feeds are viewed on the system's monitoring stations and the earliest feed for each monitored channel determines the channel content. |
| US09021510B2 |
Remote procedure call (RPC) bind service with physical interface query and selection
A service module that provides for discovery of one or more network interfaces connecting a prospective remote procedure call (RPC) client, facilitates the provision of RPC programs in a network including multi-horned systems. When a request for a network address to an RPC application providing an RPC program is received from the RPC client, the RPC bind daemon discovers from the module, using the client response address, over which interface(s) the client is accessible. The daemon then selects an address of a network path to the RPC application that the prospective client can access and returns the corresponding network address. The service module monitors the network stack for RPC get address requests and builds tables of client address entries with corresponding network interface identifiers. The entries are retired according to an aging policy. |
| US09021509B1 |
Datacenter managed thread and multi-processing support
Technologies are generally described for datacenter managed thread and multi-processing support. In some examples, a system may be provided for dynamic core allotment and provisioning within a server such that resources can be efficiently used to accomplish available work during lulls shorter than inter-server balancing time scales. A virtual machine manger (VMM) may enact core level provisioning and make optimal performance multi-processing information available via a virtual application programming interface (API) handler that receives and responds to messages sent to the VMM. The messages may not need to reach an external network and may therefore be exchanged at high speeds. |
| US09021508B2 |
Generic application programming interface for reading information
The specification and drawings present a new method and software related product (e.g., computer readable medium, a computer, a computer memory or a laser recording disk) presented for: using a generic application programming interface (GAPI) for reading information, e.g., multi-application files (i.e., files created by two or more applications) stored in devices, e.g., computers, computer network devices/workstations, communication network devices, servers, memories (e.g., archives, backup repositories), etc. |
| US09021502B2 |
Method and system for inter-thread communication using processor messaging
In shared-memory computer systems, threads may communicate with one another using shared memory. A receiving thread may poll a message target location repeatedly to detect the delivery of a message. Such polling may cause excessive cache coherency traffic and/or congestion on various system buses and/or other interconnects. A method for inter-processor communication may reduce such bus traffic by reducing the number of reads performed and/or the number of cache coherency messages necessary to pass messages. The method may include a thread reading the value of a message target location once, and determining that this value has been modified by detecting inter-processor messages, such as cache coherence messages, indicative of such modification. In systems that support transactional memory, a thread may use transactional memory primitives to detect the cache coherence messages. This may be done by starting a transaction, reading the target memory location, and spinning until the transaction is aborted. |
| US09021494B2 |
Method and system for communicating between isolation environments
A method and system for aggregating installation scopes within an isolation environment, where the method includes first defining an isolation environment for encompassing an aggregation of installation scopes. Associations are created between a first application and a first installation scope. When the first application requires the presence of a second application within the isolation environment for proper execution, an image of the required second application is mounted onto a second installation scope and an association between the second application and the second installation scope is created. Another association is created between the first installation scope and the second installation scope, and this third association is created within a third installation scope. Each of the first, second, and third installation scopes are stored and the first application is launched into the defined isolation environment. |
| US09021491B2 |
Dual mode reader writer lock
A system, and computer usable program product for a dual mode reader writer lock are provided. A contention condition is determined in using an original lock. The original lock manages read and write access to a resource by several processes executing in the data processing system. The embodiment creates a set of expanded locks for use in conjunction with the original lock. The original lock and the set of expanded locks forming the dual mode reader writer lock, which operates to manage the read and write access to the resource. Using an index within the original lock, each expanded lock is indexed such that each expanded lock is locatable using the index. The contention condition is resolved by distributing requests for acquiring and releasing the read access and write access to the resource by the several processes across the original lock and the set of expanded locks. |
| US09021489B2 |
Start, suspend and resume an application program where the application program utilizes the same handle to identify a resource upon resumption
An information processing device is configure so as to store an image that is to be retained in a main memory so that a processor can execute an application program, and after execution of the application program is terminated, execute the application program from a state at a time when the image is stored by reading out the stored image to the main memory. |
| US09021488B2 |
Device management scheduling based on trap mechanism
Performing device management scheduling based upon a trap mechanism is provided. A scheduling context, upon receipt from a server, is installed. The scheduling context may have at least one of a first element specifying information including at least one command for device management and a second element specifying a trap-based condition to execute the command. The command in the message specified by the first element is executed, if an occurrence of a particular event specified by the second element is found. |
| US09021487B2 |
Apparatus and method for serializing process instance access to information stored redundantly in at least two datastores
Method and system for serializing access to datasets, suitable for use in a workflow management system which executes multiple business processes, wherein a single process instance is enabled to invoke web services which may update datasets of different storages holding redundant information. Business Process Execution Language for Web Services allows defining business processes that make use of web services and business processes that externalize their functionality as web services. As the business process has no knowledge about data that is accessed by invoked web services, concurrent process instances may update the same pieces of information within a database. Unless access to the data is carried out as a transaction, parallel execution of the process instances may cause data inconsistencies, which may be avoided by serializing the execution of process instances based on correlation information associated with messages consumed by the process instances. |
| US09021486B2 |
Selective constant complexity dismissal in task scheduling
A strictly increasing function is implemented to generate a plurality of unique creation stamps, each of the plurality of unique creation stamps increasing over time pursuant to the strictly increasing function. A new task to be placed with the plurality of tasks is labeled with a new unique creation stamp of the plurality of unique creation stamps. The one of the list of dismissal rules holds a minimal valid creation (MVC) stamp, which is updated when a dismissal action for the one of the list of dismissal rules is executed. The dismissal action acts to dismiss a selection of tasks over time due to continuous dispatch. |
| US09021481B2 |
Computer-readable recording medium, migration control method and control device
A control device includes a moving unit that moves a storage image of a machine that is currently used as a virtual machine environment, to a predetermined storage area, and a writing unit that, after a completion of a move by the moving unit, writes a new storage image including an operating system in a physical machine environment, to the machine in which the move is completed. |
| US09021479B2 |
Enforcing machine deployment zoning rules in an automatic provisioning environment
A mechanism is provided for enforcing machine deployment zoning rules in an automatic provisioning system. Responsive to receiving a machine specification from a user for deployment of a virtual machine in a computing environment, the automatic provisioning system applies machine deployment zone rules to the machine specification. Responsive to the machine specification not meeting the machine deployment zone rules, the automatic provisioning system generates a failure notification. The automatic provisioning system presents the failure notification to the user. |
| US09021473B2 |
Hardware characterization in virtual environments
A, system, and computer program product for hardware characterization in a virtual environment are provided in the illustrative embodiments. The hardware resource is allocated to a test virtual machine (VM). A characterization workload is configured to execute in the test VM to characterize a parameter of the hardware resource. The characterization workload is caused to execute on the test VM. A first result of the characterization workload execution is received from the test VM, wherein the result assigns a value to a characteristic of the hardware resource indicative of a behavior of the hardware resource under a set of circumstances. |
| US09021472B2 |
Virtualizing baseboard management controller operation
A method, apparatus, and computer program product for virtualizing baseboard management controller (‘BMC’) operation in a host computer comprising a base BMC is provided. Example embodiments include executing, by the host computer, a virtual BMC; registering, by the virtual BMC, with the base BMC of the host computer; and processing BMC requests sent to the base BMC by the virtual BMC. In some example embodiments, prior to registration of the virtual BMC, BMC requests are processed by the base BMC. Some other example embodiments include determining, by the base BMC, periodically at a predefined period of time, whether the virtual BMC is active; and upon the base BMC determining that the virtual BMC is not active: deregistering, by the base BMC, the virtual BMC; and processing subsequently received BMC requests by the base BMC. |
| US09021467B2 |
Software-defined radio terminal device and method for distributing and installing radio application
Disclosed is a software-defined radio terminal device of the present invention. The software-defined radio terminal device of the present invention is a software-defined radio terminal device configured adaptively according to a radio application, and comprises: a storage unit, a micro processor, and a baseband accelerator, wherein the micro processor delivers from the upper layer to the baseband accelerator a control command for controlling the baseband accelerator and information to be transmitted, reads from the storage unit a code including a radio controller layer delivering the information received from the baseband accelerator to the upper layer, and a baseband driver layer that enables the interface between the radio controller layer and the baseband accelerator and implements the code thereby, and is configured to load from the storage unit to the baseband accelerator at least one function block needed for implementing the radio application, and the function block loaded to the baseband accelerator is configured to include a baseband control function block that controls in real-time the baseband accelerator. |
| US09021466B2 |
Electronic device with prompting function and prompting method
An electronic device with a prompting function is provided. The electronic device includes a storage module, a detecting module, a processing module, and a display module. The storage module stores contents associated with dialog boxes which are to be generated during using or installing applications and associated options of each of the contents, the associated options of each of the contents comprising preferred options and not preferred options. The detecting module obtains a content and the associated options of the content from a pop-up dialog box. The processing module compares the obtained content with the stored contents and determines a preferred option of the obtained content according to the stored associated preferred option if the obtained content matches one of the stored content. The processing module further changes the display state of the determined preferred option of the content. |
| US09021463B2 |
Method, system and apparatus for management of push content
A method, system and apparatus for management of push content is provided. An intermediation infrastructure mediates traffic from a push content server that is addressed to a computing device. The intermediation infrastructure enforces various policies such that, for example, unwanted communications are not pushed to the computing device. |
| US09021460B2 |
Software management system
A software management system provides a software management device which manages a plurality of software programs installed in a plurality of managed devices in connection with a plurality of software-updating module delivery devices. The software management device receives adaptive version data from the managed device and current version data from the software-updating module delivery device. When the current version of software, indicated by current version data, is later than the adaptive version of software, indicated by adaptive version data, the software management device downloads software-updating modules from the software-updating module delivery device, thus updating the adaptive version of software installed in the managed device by use of software-updating modules. |
| US09021458B1 |
Vertically integrated continuous delivery of an application
Embodiment are directed towards managing application delivery over a network. Change information that corresponds to changes to an application may be provided to a delivery pipeline. The change information may be verified in part based on a static analysis of the content of the change information, compiling, and unit testing. Reviewers may be notified to approve the change information. A version of the application that includes the change information may be generated. Acceptance testing may be performed that includes provisioning computing resources in an acceptance computing environment. And, deploying a version of application that includes the change information into the acceptance computing environment. If the acceptance testing passes, a shipping operation may be enabled pausing the delivery pipeline until an authorized user activates the shipping operation restarting the delivery pipeline and deploying the application to one or more computing environments. |
| US09021457B2 |
Method and system for dynamically resizing enclosed storage device partitions
A computer-implemented method for updating a recovery operating system (OS) stored in a boot partition of a storage device. The method involves booting, via host operating system (OS) boot files stored in the boot partition, a host OS that is stored in a host partition of the storage device, receiving a request to update a recovery OS also stored in the boot partition, determining the recovery OS update requires additional storage space of size Z to be added to the boot partition, decreasing the size of the host partition by the size Z, increasing the size of the boot partition by the size Z, and updating the recovery OS. |
| US09021455B2 |
Packed data objects
A computer-implemented process for creating a packed data object, the computer-implemented process comprising providing instrumentation to an enhanced runtime by an enhanced compiler for a computer executable program portion, detecting a special class in the computer executable program portion by the enhanced runtime, creating an internal representation of a packed data object header using the instrumentation, calculating a size of elements for a packed data object associated with the computer executable program portion, determining a type of packed data object using information in the packed data object header, and responsive to a determination that the type of packed data object is an on-heap packed data object, storing the packed data object header and associated packed data object data together for the packed data object in a memory heap. |
| US09021453B1 |
Anti-malware installation deployment simulator
A deployment simulator application receives information about an anti-malware application that is to be deployed to and installed on client devices connected to a network. The deployment simulator application identifies the clients that will receive the deployed anti-malware application and performs a series of tests on the client to determine whether the anti-malware application will be able to successfully install remotely on the client. The deployment simulator application may report the results of the deployment simulation tests to an administrative client. |
| US09021452B2 |
Automatic identification of storage requirements, such as for use in selling data storage management solutions
Systems and methods for demonstrating a replacement information management software for a computing system. The methods may include determining if existing information management software is installed in the computing system. The methods may include identifying computing devices of the computing system using information from the existing information management software. The methods may include simulating the replacement information management software with characteristics of the identified computing devices to enable a user to experience the replacement information management software prior to committing to installing the replacement information management software in the computing system. The methods may include automatically installing the replacement information management software. Other implementations are disclosed. |
| US09021447B2 |
Application tracing by distributed objectives
A tracing system may divide trace objectives across multiple instances of an application, then deploy the objectives to be traced. The results of the various objectives may be aggregated into a detailed tracing representation of the application. The trace objectives may define specific functions, processes, memory objects, events, input parameters, or other subsets of tracing data that may be collected. The objectives may be deployed on separate instances of an application that may be running on different devices. In some cases, the objectives may be deployed at different time intervals. The trace objectives may be lightweight, relatively non-intrusive tracing workloads that, when results are aggregated, may provide a holistic view of an application's performance. |
| US09021439B2 |
Green software applications
Novel tools and techniques are provided for implementing green software applications and/or certifying software applications with a green applications efficiency (“GAE”) rating. Implementing green software applications might include performing performance tests of a software application, measuring power consumption of one or more hardware components, in response to execution of the software application during the one or more performance tests, generating a power consumption profile for the software application based on the measure power consumption, and tuning the software application such that power consumption of the one or more hardware components matches a power load caused by execution of the software application, based at least in part on the power consumption profile for the software application. Certifying software applications might include calculating an efficiency rating based on measured or calculated hardware power consumption, calculating the GAE rating for the software application, and certifying the software application with the GAE rating. |
| US09021437B2 |
Declarative style rules for default touch behaviors
In at least some embodiments, a mechanism is provided for web developers to request specific default behaviors, such as touch behaviors, on their webpages. In at least some implementations, a Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) rule is utilized to enable or disable manipulations such as panning, pinch zoom, and double-tap-zoom manipulations. The mechanism can be extensible to accommodate additional default behaviors that are added in the future. In various embodiments, the behaviors are declared upfront and thus differ from solutions which employ an imperative model. The declarative nature of this approach allows achievement of full independence from the main thread and deciding the correct response using independent hit testing. |
| US09021433B2 |
Software development support method, program and device
Supporting communications between developers of interdependent tasks of software parallel development can include inserting metadata, which expresses the existence of dependent code on which a first source code depends, into the first source code, at a time a first owner creates the first source code. A task to create the dependent code is created in response to detection of the metadata. Metadata expressing a second owner who owns the task of creating the dependent code and a status of the task is inserted into the first source code. |
| US09021426B2 |
Streamlining hardware initialization code
According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, hardware initialization code and error action information are retrieved from separate storage areas. The hardware initialization code includes code that initializes a device, and also includes placeholders corresponding to actions that are performed when the device fails initialization. Likewise, the error action information describes the actions that are performed when the device fails initialization. The error action information is converted into macros that include lines of code. As such, the error action placeholders are matched to the macros and, in turn, each of the error action placeholders is replaced with the lines of code corresponding to the matched macros. |
| US09021423B2 |
Enhanced widget composition platform
An enhanced widget composition platform, in which code is automatically generated based on receiving a selection of at least a first service and a widget engine via the web-based widget composition platform, the code, when invoked by the selected widget engine, implementing a widget that is operable to communicate with the first service. |
| US09021422B2 |
Method and system for processing instruction information
A method and system for processing instruction information. Each instruction information character string of a sequence of instruction information character strings are sequentially extracted and processed. Each instruction information character string pertains to an associated target object wrapped in a target object storage unit by an associated operation target model. It is independently ascertained for each instruction information character string whether to generate a code line for each instruction information character string, by: determining whether a requirement is satisfied and generating the code line and storing the code line in a code buffer if the requirement has been determined to be satisfied and not generating the code line if the requirement has been determined to not be satisfied. The requirement relates to whether the instruction information character string being processed comprises a naming instruction or a generation instruction. The generated code lines stored in the code buffer are displayed. |
| US09021421B1 |
Read and write barriers for flexible and efficient garbage collection
Described herein are techniques to provide read and write barriers for flexible and efficient garbage collection. A memory heap is split into pages. Each page is aligned to an address that is a multiple of a particular power of two. When generating read and write operations, code is generated to execute the write barrier or the read barrier. At this point, the page alignment for each pointer is known; for example, if the page alignment is the same for all pointers in the system. With this page structure, it is possible to find the page start by masking the address of any heap allocated object on the page with a mask based on the page alignment (bitwise-and operation). A plurality of flags are established on a page. This Abstract is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. |
| US09021419B2 |
System and method for supporting intelligent design pattern automation
A system and method can support design pattern automation. A design environment, such as a design pattern automation platform, enables the definition of design patterns including the model entities and their relationships. The design pattern automation platform leverages the definitions and user input, and uses an intelligent method to automate the implementation of arbitrarily complex software design artifacts that realize the design patterns. The design pattern automation platform allows a user to specify a design pattern model that describes a design pattern. A user interface (UI) framework can consume the design pattern model and can render a set of UI pages that allow for user interaction with the design pattern. Furthermore, a pattern processor can combine the meta-model with user inputs from the UI framework and produce a set of entities or resources for the design pattern. |
| US09021417B2 |
Generating a subset model from a model
A technique for identifying a minimum number of model elements associated with a model for generating a subset model of the model that includes receiving a model, a set of model elements and a set of dependency types associated with the model; assigning a collector component to each of the received model elements; locating a model element dependent on the received model element by one of the received dependency types; receiving from each collector a dependent model element, and for each dependent model element, determining whether the dependent model element has been collected by another collector with the same dependency type and updating a subset model list with the collected dependent model element to build a list of collected dependent model elements for generating a subset model in response to a negative determination. |
| US09021416B2 |
Recommended application evaluation system
A code evaluation tool greatly reduces time, cost, and other resource expenditures needed to validate that an application implements desired functionality. The tool is a search, navigation and visualization tool that accepts high-level processing concepts as inputs to identify, rank, and return the code of a recommended application. A software developer may use the tool to validate that functional requirements are met by the recommended application. The tool provides an efficient way to improve the evaluation of application logic to validate that the application meets specified functional requirement and implements the desired high-level processing concepts. |
| US09021414B1 |
Automation for monolithic 3D devices
A method of designing a 3D Integrated Circuit, the method including: performing placement using a 2D placer, performing placement for at least a first strata and a second strata, and then performing routing and completing the physical design of said 3D Integrated Circuit. |
| US09021411B2 |
Characterizing TSV structures in a semiconductor chip stack
A first signal is transmitted through a first path. A computing device determines a signal propagation time of the first signal. The computing device transmits a second signal through a second path, wherein the second path includes the second signal traversing across at least one interconnecting structure. The computing device determines a signal propagation time of the second signal. The computing device determines a propagation time difference between the signal propagation time of the first signal and the signal propagation time of the second signal. The computing device adjusts a clock based on the determined propagation time difference. |
| US09021409B2 |
Integration of data mining and static analysis for hardware design verification
A method of generating assertions for verification of a hardware design expressed at a register transfer level (RTL) includes running simulation traces through the design to generate simulation data; extract domain-specific information about the design for variables of interest; execute a data mining algorithm with the simulation data and the domain-specific information, to generate a set of candidate assertions for variable(s) of interest through machine learning with respect to the domain-specific information, the candidate assertions being likely invariants; conduct formal verification on the design with respect to each candidate assertion by outputting as invariants the candidate assertions that pass verification; iteratively feed back into the algorithm a counterexample trace generated by each failed candidate assertion, each counterexample trace including at least one additional variable in the design not previously input into the data mining algorithm, to thus increase coverage of a state space of the design. |
| US09021408B2 |
System, method, and computer program product for translating a source database into a common hardware database
A system, method, and computer program product are provided for translating a hardware design. In use, a hardware design is received that is a graph-based intermediate representation of a hardware design stored in a source database. An instance of each unique module in the source database is determined and a hardware module node is generated for each unique module. Additionally, a list of one or more instances is associated with each hardware module node and a graph-based common representation of the hardware design that includes one or more of the generated hardware module nodes is stored. |
| US09021406B2 |
Pattern inspection method of semiconductor device optical image
In accordance with one aspect of this invention, a pattern inspection method includes acquiring optical images regarding figure patterns arranged in each of frame regions, for each of the plurality of frame regions; measuring linewidth dimensions of the figure patterns, for each of the frame regions; operating an average value of each linewidth dimension shift between linewidth dimensions of figure patterns in a reference image corresponding to the frame region concerned and the linewidth dimensions of the figure patterns in the optical image, for each of the frame regions; extracting a specific frame from the frame regions by comparing the average value of the frame region concerned, with average values of frame regions around the frame region concerned, for each of the frame regions; and inspecting the specific frame for dimensional defects of linewidth dimensions. |
| US09021403B2 |
Touch input gesture based command
A touch input gesture made on a touch sensitive display is described for providing a quick and efficient method for initiating the opening of a text input box. The initiation of opening the text input box following the touch input gesture may be made during the running of a separate application. Further, certain characteristics related to the shape, size and length of the touch input gesture will be referenced to determine certain characteristics of the text input box that is initiated in response to the touch input gesture. |
| US09021398B2 |
Providing accessibility features on context based radial menus
Radial context based menus are employed for content management through touch or gesture actions, keyboard entries, mouse or pen actions, and similar input. Different actions and combinations of actions enable users to activate submenus, execute commands, or collapse context based menus. Accessibility features are integrated with radial context based menus to ease user interaction with radial context based menu controls. Distinct accessibility controls are superimposed on radial context based menu controls to aid with command interactions. Additionally, contrast schemes are implemented on radial context based menu controls and surrounding regions to differentiate the context base menu controls for visual acuity. |
| US09021390B1 |
Methods and apparatus for optimized pausing of an embedded application to render pop-up window
Methods and systems executing an embedded application within the context of a first client application are provided. One method includes executing application logic to adjust states of one or more display objects and rendering one or more of the one or more display objects that are associated with a stage definition in a display region of the first client application. In response to a trigger event, the method causes the first application to generate a interface component, such as a pop-up, in the display region and pausing the rendering of the embedded application. The pausing includes generating a static image based on the states of the one or more display objects associated with the stage definition, associating the static image with the stage definition and disassociating the one or more display objects from the stage definition. |
| US09021386B1 |
Enhanced user interface scrolling system
A computer system displays: a view window including an initial portion of a document, a scroll icon at an initial scroll icon location on the display, and a marker icon that is distinct from the scroll icon. The computer system detects a scrolling input and in response moves the scroll icon to a target scroll icon location on the display wherein the target scroll icon location corresponds to a target portion of the document. In some embodiments, the computer system scrolls the document towards the target portion of the document and concurrently moves the marker icon towards a target marker icon location on the display that is proximate to the target scroll icon location, where the scrolling speed of the document is determined based on the distance between the marker icon and the scroll icon. |
| US09021376B2 |
Task timer
A computer-implemented method, system, and/or computer program product aid a user with time management before a future event. An event alert is received and displayed on a user interface at a computer. In response to receiving the event alert, an irremovable countdown icon is automatically generated and displayed on the user interface. The irremovable countdown icon, which represents an amount of time remaining before the future event, cannot be removed from the user interface until after the future event has started. |
| US09021372B2 |
System and method for concurrent display of messages from multiple conversations
A method, system and graphical user interface for displaying conversation messages is disclosed. One aspect of certain embodiments includes displaying messages in a first set of conversation messages, and selecting, without user involvement, a second set of conversation messages. The second set of conversation messages are selected by comparing a topic for the first set of conversation messages with a second topic for the second set of conversation messages, or determining that the second set of conversation messages is similar to the first set of conversation messages. Messages in the first set of conversation messages and messages in the selected set of conversation messages are both displayed in a single context to the user. |
| US09021369B2 |
User matching in a virtual environment
Techniques are disclosed to facilitate user matching in a virtual environment. Social interactions of a first user in the virtual environment are monitored. A request to participate in a desired activity is received from the first user. A set of users currently eligible to participate in the first desired activity is retrieved. A match is programmatically generated between the first user and at least a second user of the retrieved set of users, based on the monitored social interactions. The first user and the second user participate in the desired activity in the virtual environment. |
| US09021368B2 |
System and method for virtual environment preservation based on automated item reduction
A method implemented in a computer infrastructure having computer executable code, includes detecting one of an absence of a virtual universe (VU) occurrence in a VU within a predetermined time period, a special event in the VU and a change of real world status from a previous real world status. Additionally, the method includes determining a VU asset of a VU resident relevant to the VU occurrence, the special event or the previous real world status. Further, the method includes performing an automated asset reduction of the VU asset based on the determining. |
| US09021362B2 |
Real-time analytics of web performance using actual user measurements
A method for real-time capture of actual user experiences on a website, web application or mobile app includes receiving, in first servers, one or more beacons, each containing data items. Each beacon is generated in real-time from a user session. The data items are aggregated in one or more first sets of N data buckets associated with each of the first servers. Each of the first servers transmits the data items of each of the N data buckets to a second server over a network, which further aggregates the data items received in one or more sets of N data buckets corresponding to and identically configured as the data buckets of the first servers. The corresponding data contents of the one or more second sets of N data buckets is aggregated into one or more final sets of N data buckets used in generating a real-time analytic dashboard. |
| US09021361B1 |
System and method for flow visualization and interaction with network traffic
Systems and methods for generating visualization data representing network traffic flow in or out of one or more nodes, each node representing the network traffic for one or more web pages. The method includes visualizing data configured to connect the one or more nodes with one or more connectors, each connector configured to connect two nodes, the one or more connectors configured to have a dimension that indicates a number of visits between two nodes. The network traffic capable of being highlighted when a user selects the one or more nodes or connectors. |
| US09021360B2 |
Component localization
In an implementation of component localization, control components are maintained that each define a localization format, such as a display format for a section of a display. A locale designation is received and a control component is obtained that corresponds to a locale. Display data is generated that includes the control component in a display format defined by the control component and which corresponds to the designated locale according the defined localization format. |
| US09021358B2 |
Multi-site video based computer aided diagnostic and analytical platform
In one embodiment, a method includes receiving a stream of biometric imaging data of a patient; receiving medical data about the patient; receiving a video stream depicting a source of the biometric imaging data; receiving supplemental information selected from a group consisting of: a second video stream depicting a human, one or more use cases corresponding to the biometric imaging data, an image of anatomy comparable to the biometric imaging data; and preparing for simultaneous output to a graphical user interface on a single display screen: the biometric imaging data, the medical data, the video stream depicting a source of the biometric imaging data, and the supplemental information. Each of the biometric imaging data, the medical data about the patient, the video stream depicting a source of the biometric imaging data, and the supplemental information is simultaneously output in a unique region of the graphical user interface. |
| US09021356B2 |
Method and device for composing a menu
Multimedia content of exchangeable storage media, such as optical discs, may be extended by bonus content that is downloaded via Internet connection and stored on a local storage device. An improved method for integration of different menu items relating to on-disc content and downloaded content provides flexibility and a simple, low cost solution. The method for integration of downloaded bonus content into a menu comprises defining one or more placeholders within a menu, determining a storage location or naming convention for bonus content, declaring for each placeholder an attribute providing a unique association to a specific type of bonus content, providing a button image, detecting presence of bonus content data, replacing the associated placeholder by the associated button image and enabling an associated action to be taken when said button is selected. |
| US09021353B2 |
Systems and methods for camouflaging an information stream
Information is camouflaged to permit discreet access of the information at times when it is otherwise inappropriate to access the information. Information is camouflaged for computer device display by analyzing visual characteristics of baseline information designated to be displayed on a portion of an electronic display and causing the electronic display to display replacement information within a region of the electronic display in place of information or content that would normally be displayed within the region. The replacement information visually conforms to the visual characteristics so as to be camouflaged within other information displayed outside the region. An input/output interface may be at least intermittently displayed within a section of the region to permit a user to interact with a data stream providing the replacement information. When the input/output interface is displayed, it may also be camouflaged to conform to the visual characteristics of the baseline information. |
| US09021350B2 |
Device control system, service-providing method for a device control system, and a program for the same
A device control system does not require changing the application in conjunction with changes in process content or changes in the type or specifications of a device. A style sheet database stores a plurality of style sheets describing information conversion rules for XML documents. A communication interface acquires output data from an application, and acquires an XML document containing information specifying the target device to which the output data is output and an output style sheet. Based on the output style sheet, an XML document converter converts the XML document acquired from the communication interface to an XML document including device control information for the target device. A device-specific XML document input/output unit outputs the XML document acquired from the XML document converter to the device control service corresponding to the target device. |
| US09021349B1 |
System, method, and computer program product for identifying differences in a EDA design
The present disclosure relates to a computer-implemented method for generating an electronic design automation differences report is provided. The method may include modifying instructions configured to generate a report of an electronic design and generating a data file based upon, at least in part, the modified instructions. The method may further include converting the data file to a second data file using, at least in part, the template. The method may also include generating a report viewer, based upon, at least in part, the second data file. |
| US09021345B2 |
Managing references related to patent applications
A reference-management tool facilitates managing prior art references relating to one or more patent applications, which may be represented by matters. Interfaces can be presented to users to enable the users to group matters into clans, to associate references with matters, to automatically generate information disclosure statements (IDSs) and to track citations of references. |
| US09021343B1 |
Parity scheme for a data storage device
A data storage device includes a non-volatile memory having a three-dimensional (3D) memory configuration. The data storage device may further include selection circuitry configured to select data for a parity operation in accordance with a parity scheme. The parity scheme may correspond to a string-based and group-based striping pattern. |
| US09021341B1 |
LDPC coding in a communication system
In a method for generating a physical layer (PHY) data unit for transmission via a communication channel, a plurality of information bits to be included in the PHY data unit are received, and a number of orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) symbols that are needed to include the plurality of information bits after encoding with a low density parity check (LDPC) encoder is determined. One or more of a, b, c, and d are performed according to a set of rules so that a receiving device can determine a number of information bits in the PHY data unit based on i) an indication of the number of OFDM symbols, and ii) the set rules: a) adding padding bits and/or shortening bits prior to encoding with the LDPC encoder, b) removing shortening bits after encoding with the LDPC encoder, c) removing parity bits after encoding with the LDPC encoder, d) repeating information and/or parity bits after encoding with the LDPC encoder. The plurality of information bits are encoded using the LDPC encoder. The PHY data unit is generated i) to include the LDPC encoded information bits in OFDM symbols and ii) to include an indication of the number of OFDM symbols in the PHY data unit. |
| US09021340B2 |
Error recovery using erasures for NAND Flash
Error correction decoding is performed on a codeword where the codeword is unable to be successfully decoded. One or more bits in the codeword are selected to be replaced with an erasure. The selected bits in the codeword is/are replaced with an erasure to obtain a codeword with one or more erasures. Error correction decoding is performed on the codeword with one or more erasures. |
| US09021336B1 |
Systems and methods for redundantly storing error correction codes in a flash drive with secondary parity information spread out across each page of a group of pages
Apparatus and methods provide relatively low uncorrectable bit error rates, low write amplification, long life, fast and efficient retrieval, and efficient storage density such that a solid-state drive (SSD) can be implemented using relatively inexpensive MLC Flash for an enterprise storage application. Both primary parity symbols for primary codewords and secondary parity symbols for secondary codewords are generated. The secondary parity symbols are spread out across each page of a group of pages. |
| US09021328B2 |
Shared error protection for register banks
A method for adding error detection, or error detection combined with error correction, to a plurality of register banks includes grouping the plurality of register banks into an array. The method also includes adding a first error control mechanism to the array in a first direction and adding a second error control mechanism to the array in a second direction. The method further includes adding a product code to the array, the product code including applying the second error control mechanism to a plurality of bits of the first error control mechanism. |
| US09021327B2 |
Dynamic packet redundancy for a free space optical communication link
System (100) and methods (1100) for improving packet loss due to fast optical power fades in an FSO communication link (136). The methods involve: obtaining Channel Fade Statistics (“CFSs”) for the FSO communication link; and analyzing CFSs to determine if Redundant Packet Transmission (“RPT”) is required to mitigate fast optical power fading. If RPT is required, then first operations are performed at a data link layer (408) of a protocol stack (400) to generate first packets (600). Each packet has a sequence number (602) disposed between a data link layer header (502) and a network layer header (504). If RPT is not required, then second operations are performed at the data link layer to generate a second packet absent of the sequence number or alternatively having a sequence number equal to zero. Thereafter, the packet(s) is transmitted over the FSO communication link one or more times. |
| US09021320B2 |
pBIST architecture with multiple asynchronous sub chips operating in differing voltage domains
A programmable Built In Self Test (pBIST) system used to test embedded memories where the memories may be operating at a voltage domain different from the voltage domain of the pBIST. A plurality of buffer and synchronizing registers are used to avoid meta stable conditions caused by the time delays introduced by the voltage shifters required to bridge the various voltage domains. |
| US09021318B2 |
Voice processing apparatus and method for detecting and correcting errors in voice data
A voice processing apparatus is provided in an ADPCM (Adaptive Differential Pulse Code Modulation) voice transmission system in which voice data that is differentially quantized through an ADPCM scheme is transmitted. The voice processing apparatus includes an error detector which detects whether or not an error occurs in a transmission frame containing data that indicates a differential value, and an error determiner which determines a level of the error detected by the error detector when the error detector detects the error. The voice processing apparatus also includes a voice processor which corrects the voice data with a correction value depending on the level of the error detected by the error detector and an ADPCM decoder which decodes the voice data corrected by the voice processor. |
| US09021317B2 |
Reporting and processing computer operation failure alerts
Reporting and processing computer operation failure alerts, including deploying on a computer in a computing environment a plurality of alert reporting agents, the computing environment including a plurality of computers including a system management server that monitors the operating conditions of the other computers in the computing environment, the computer also including an alert generator configured to accept registrations of alert reporting agents, to generate alerts of present or pending failure, and to provide the generated alerts to registered alert reporting agents; registering the alert reporting agents with the alert generator; designating a primary alert reporting agent among registered alert reporting agents that communicate alerts to a same system management server; communicating a computer operation failure alert to all registered agents; and communicating, by the primary alert reporting agent only, the alert to the system management server. |
| US09021315B1 |
Simultaneous error detection during VM import
Architectures and techniques for uploading virtual machine (VM) images to a network-accessible computing platform from a client device while simultaneously performing error detection of the VM images at the client device. One technique can include transmitting a request from the client device to upload VM images. The technique can further include receiving an application from the computing platform and using the application to reconstitute the VM images from a first stream at the client device while performing error detection. The technique also includes using the application to upload the VM images from a second stream at the client device to the computing platform while performing the error detection. |
| US09021314B1 |
Methods and apparatus for remote gateway monitoring and diagnostics
Methods, apparatus, and computer-accessible storage media for remotely monitoring and diagnosing storage gateways. Status information may be collected locally on the gateways and uploaded to a service provider via gateway-initiated connections. The uploaded information may be stored to status data store(s). Status proxy(s) on the provider network may analyze the information in the status data store(s) for one or more gateways to detect error conditions on individual gateways or patterns or error conditions on multiple gateways. Upon detecting an error condition on a gateway, the proxy may alert another process, for example an administrator process on the local network that includes the respective gateway. The other process may then message the gateway to address the condition. Information for particular gateways may be provided to clients on request. Information collected from multiple gateways may be viewed and analyzed by the service provider to detect patterns related to gateway design. |
| US09021309B2 |
Method and system for creating virtual editable data objects by using a read-only data set as baseline
A method is integrated into the local operating system of a test machine. The disclosed technique preferably uses a master copy of one or more data objects from a first location to create virtual data objects (e.g., files or folders) that appear to be part of a file system mounted to a test machine in a second location. This disclosure describes a “projection” method and computer program that enables access to a destination object at a target location immediately upon initiation of a copy command at a source location while a copy operation is carried out in a background manner. |
| US09021300B2 |
Method of changing over from a primary HSS to a backup HSS in an IP network
A method is provided for changing over from a primary home subscriber server (HSS) to a backup HSS in an IP network, said network having a plurality of call server control function (CSCF) (or application) servers, in which, after detection of a loss of connection between one of said CSCF (or application) servers and a primary HSS to which it is normally connected, the CSCF (or application) server connects itself to a backup HSS. The method also comprises the following steps: a) a predetermined broadcast device is informed of said loss of connection with said HSS; b) said broadcast device sends a predetermined fault message at least to the other CSCF (or application) servers that are normally connected to said primary HSS, said message containing the reference of said primary HSS; and c) said other CSCF (or application) servers connect themselves to said backup HSS. |
| US09021299B2 |
Restarting processes
Techniques are disclosed that include a computer-implemented method, including storing information related to an initial state of a process upon being initialized, wherein execution of the process includes executing at least one execution phase and upon completion of the executing of the execution phase storing information representative of an end state of the execution phase; aborting execution of the process in response to a predetermined event; and resuming execution of the process from one of the saved initial and end states without needing to shut down the process. |
| US09021298B2 |
Integrated circuit with error repair and fault tolerance
An integrated circuit is provided with error detection circuitry and error repair circuitry. Error tolerance circuitry is responsive to a control parameter to selectively disable the error repair circuitry. The control parameter is dependent on the processing performed within the circuit. For example, the control parameter may be generated in dependence upon the program instruction being executed, the output signal value which is in error, the previous behavior of the circuit or in other ways. |
| US09021293B2 |
Methods for operating a memory interface circuit including calibration for CAS latency compensation in a plurality of byte lanes
A method for quickly calibrating a memory interface circuit from time to time in conjunction with operation of a functional circuit is described. The method uses controlling the memory interface circuit with respect to read data capture for byte lanes, including controlling CAS latency compensation for the byte lanes. In the method control settings for controlling CAS latency compensation are determined and set according to a dynamic calibration procedure performed from time to time in conjunction with functional operation of a circuit system containing one or more memory devices connected to the memory interface circuit. In the method, determining and setting the control settings for controlling CAS latency compensation is performed independently and parallely in each of the byte lanes. |
| US09021291B2 |
Synchronous network
A network node of a synchronous network, wherein said network node comprises a timing circuit which recovers a reference clock from a reception signal received by said network node from an upstream network node of said synchronous network and uses the recovered reference clock for a transmission signal transmitted by said network node to a downstream network node of said synchronous network; and a clock stability monitoring circuit which monitors internal control parameters (CP) of said timing circuit to detect an instability of the reference clock distributed within said synchronous network. |
| US09021286B2 |
Information processing device employing main controller to respond with all received predetermined data packets when the main controller is already in high power mode
An information processing apparatus includes a control unit to control the apparatus, a power supplying control unit to control power supply and a stop of the power supply to the control unit, a receiving unit to receive data from outside, and a response unit to generate and send first response data with respect to first received data received by the receiving unit while the power supply to the control unit is stopped, when the response unit verifies the first received data are predetermined data capable of being responded to by the response unit. The control unit includes a unit to send an instruction to make the power supplying control unit stop the power supply to the control unit, in a predetermined condition while the power is supplied to the control unit. |
| US09021285B2 |
Computing device negotiating with a proxy device to control sleep mode and achieving energy saving
A system for saving energy through control of a sleep mode, and a method of operating the system are provided. The energy-saving system may enable a proxy device to maintain a minimum basic setup necessary for a communication when a host device enters a sleep mode, and may omit an operation performed based on the basic setup when the host device switches to a communication mode, thereby enabling a smooth switch between the sleep mode and the communication mode. |
| US09021278B2 |
Network association of communication devices based on attenuation information
An electric vehicle can be configured to execute an association procedure with one or more charging stations in a charging facility to securely connect to and receive electric power from one of the charging stations. The electric vehicle can broadcast one or more service matching messages to the charging stations and, in response, can receive attenuation information from one or more of the charging stations. The electric vehicle can analyze the attenuation information received from the charging stations to identify with which charging station the electric vehicle should associate (e.g., to determine which charging station should provide electric power to the electric vehicle). The electric vehicle can then associate with (and receive electric power from) the identified charging station. |
| US09021272B2 |
Systems and methods for managing cryptographic keys in a secure microcontroller
The present invention relates to key management in a secure microcontroller, and more particularly, to systems, devices and methods of automatically and transparently employing logic or physical address based keys that may also be transferred using dedicated buses. A cryptographic engine translates a logic address to at least one physical address, and processes a corresponding data word based on at least one target key. The target key is selected from a plurality of keys based on the logic or physical address. A universal memory controller stores each processed data word in the corresponding physical address within a memory. Each key is associated with a memory region within the memory, and therefore, the logic or physical address associated with a memory region may be used to automatically identify the corresponding target key. A dedicated secure link may be used to transport key request commands and the plurality of keys. |
| US09021271B1 |
Injecting code decrypted by a hardware decryption module into Java applications
A method is performed by a computer in communication with a hardware security module (HSM). The method includes (a) running a process virtual machine (PVM) on the computer, the PVM being configured to execute portable bytecode instructions within a PVM environment and (b) executing, within the PVM environment, instructions for (1) reading encrypted instruction code from data storage of the computer, (2) sending the encrypted instruction code to the HSM, (3) in response, receiving decrypted instruction code from the HSM, and (4) injecting the decrypted instruction code within an application running in the PVM environment for execution by the PVM. Embodiments are also directed to analogous computer program products and apparatuses. |
| US09021270B1 |
Combining wake-up and unlock into a single gesture
A computer-implemented method, a system and a computer-readable medium provide for receiving a first pattern of sensor inputs that are associated with a user of a mobile device. Subsequently, this pattern can be replicated, and based on the input, used to perform one or more of tasks such as identifying the user, unlocking the device, turning the device on, and authenticating the user. |
| US09021268B2 |
Method, computer system, and computer program product for password generation
The generation of a unique password using a secret key and an application name is disclosed. Other passwords may be generated for other applications using the same key. A user provides a key that is not easily able to be guessed by third parties. The user also inputs a name of an application for which a password is desired. The system utilises the application name and the secret key to generate a unique password for that application, using standard encryption techniques. The system generates the same password for that application and secret key combination every time. Alternate embodiments generate a user identifier from the same secret key and application name. |
| US09021267B2 |
System and method for using digital signatures to assign permissions
According to one embodiment of the invention, a method for setting permission levels is described. First, an application and digital signature is received by logic performing the permission assessment. Then, a determination is made as to what permission level for accessing resources is available to the application based on the particulars of the digital signature. Herein, the digital signature being signed with a private key corresponding to a first public key identifies that the application is assigned a first level of permissions, while the digital signature being signed with a private key corresponding to a second public key identifies the application is assigned a second level of permissions having greater access to the resources of an electronic device than provided by the first level of permissions. |
| US09021266B2 |
Validation system and verification method including signature device and verification device to verify contents
Provided are methods and a validation system that includes a signature device and a verification device for verifying a content. The signature device may generate verification information for each segment of a divided content and may generate signature information to verify the integrity of each segment and whether a corresponding segment is a part of a content. When a segment is received, the verification device may verify integrity of the segment and whether the segment is a part of the content, based on the verification information and the signature value received from the signature device. |
| US09021260B1 |
Malware data item analysis
Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a data analysis system that may automatically analyze a suspected malware file, or group of files. Automatic analysis of the suspected malware file(s) may include one or more automatic analysis techniques. Automatic analysis of may include production and gathering of various items of information related to the suspected malware file(s) including, for example, calculated hashes, file properties, academic analysis information, file execution information, third-party analysis information, and/or the like. The analysis information may be automatically associated with the suspected malware file(s), and a user interface may be generated in which the various analysis information items are presented to a human analyst such that the analyst may quickly and efficiently evaluate the suspected malware file(s). For example, the analyst may quickly determine one or more characteristics of the suspected malware file(s), whether or not the file(s) is malware, and/or a threat level of the file(s). |
| US09021256B2 |
System and methods to perform public key infrastructure (PKI) operations in vehicle networks using one-way communications infrastructure
A set of certificate management methods designed to significantly reduce or eliminate reliance on infrastructure network connectivity after vehicles are sold uses techniques to support certificate management operations in order to reduce the frequency which vehicles need to communicate with the Certificate Authorities (CAs) and the amount of data that needs to be exchanged between vehicles and the CA. These methods include, for example, approaches to use one-way communications and vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communications to replace expired certificates, approaches to use one-way communications and V2V communications to replace revoked certificates, and use of a small subset of vehicles as proxies to help retrieve and distribute Certificate Revocation Lists (CRLs) and replacement certificates. The combination of these techniques leads to solutions that can eliminate the need for roadside infrastructure networks completely. |
| US09021255B1 |
Techniques for multiple independent verifications for digital certificates
A method includes (a) receiving, at a computing device, a first certificate signing request (1CSR) from a certificate authority (CA), the 1CSR including an embedded second certificate signing request (2CSR), the 2CSR having been received by the CA from an entity seeking a signed certificate from the CA that validates an identity claim made by the entity in the 2CSR, the CA having performed a preliminary verification of the 2CSR prior to embedding it in the 1CSR, (b) verifying that the 1CSR came from the CA, (c) performing a verification procedure on the embedded 2CSR independent of the preliminary verification performed by the CA, to validate the identity claim made by the entity in the 2CSR, and (d) upon successfully validating the identity claim made by the entity in the 2CSR, sending a certificate to the CA, the certificate validating the identity claim made by the entity in the 2CSR. |
| US09021254B2 |
Multi-platform user device malicious website protection system
A security system for defending online users against fraudsters and malicious websites comprises a back-end network server and appropriate apps for each protected user device. An otherwise conventional network server is enhanced with application software instructions for a centralized software-as-a-service (SaaS) to respond to network requests from user devices operating variously under ANDROID-type, APPLE IOS-type, and MICROSOFT WINDOWS-type operating systems. The SaaS investigates, surveys, and watches websites. It calculates confidence scores related to financial fraud and the acceptability and risk to said users of visiting particular websites. It maintains a trusted network database of website URL's calculated to belong to financial websites that can be trusted and present acceptable levels of fraud and financial risk to its visitors. Each user device application provides for secure password management and access via a security browser to websites in the trusted network. |
| US09021252B2 |
Encrypted-traffic discrimination device and encrypted-traffic discrimination system
An encrypted-traffic discrimination device includes an input interface, a flow discrimination section, a data accumulation section, a selective data calculation section, a calculation result determination section, and an output interface. The flow discrimination section discriminates the input traffic into separate flows based on at least a transmission origin address and a transmission destination address. The data accumulation section accumulates characteristic amount data of the traffic for each of the separate flows. The selective data calculation section executes an evaluation computation utilizing specific data from the characteristic amount data. The calculation result determination section that, based on a calculated evaluation computation value, executes threshold value determination to determine whether or not the traffic is encrypted, and, if the traffic is determined to be encrypted, which encryption format the traffic is encrypted with. |
| US09021244B2 |
Secure boot administration in a Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI)-compliant computing device
Firmware in a UEFI-compliant computing device is used to administer and alter a Secure Boot process for the computing device while continuing to provide protection from unauthorized third-party code. |
| US09021241B2 |
Combined branch target and predicate prediction for instruction blocks
Embodiments provide methods, apparatus, systems, and computer readable media associated with predicting predicates and branch targets during execution of programs using combined branch target and predicate predictions. The predictions may be made using one or more prediction control flow graphs which represent predicates in instruction blocks and branches between blocks in a program. The prediction control flow graphs may be structured as trees such that each node in the graphs is associated with a predicate instruction, and each leaf associated with a branch target which jumps to another block. During execution of a block, a prediction generator may take a control point history and generate a prediction. Following the path suggested by the prediction through the tree, both predicate values and branch targets may be predicted. Other embodiments may be described and claimed. |
| US09021240B2 |
System and method for Controlling restarting of instruction fetching using speculative address computations
A system and method for controlling restarting of instruction fetching using speculative address computations in a processor are provided. The system includes a predicted target queue to hold branch prediction logic (BPL) generated target address values. The system also includes target selection logic including a recycle queue. The target selection logic selects a saved branch target value between a previously speculatively calculated branch target value from the recycle queue and an address value from the predicted target queue. The system further includes a compare block to identify a wrong target in response to a mismatch between the saved branch target value and a current calculated branch target, where instruction fetching is restarted in response to the wrong target. |
| US09021235B2 |
Data processing device
A statue management section of a control section is provided with a corresponding real number storage section that stores a real number converted from a logical number by a configuration number converting section. When the corresponding real number storage section has stored configuration information with a real number of the next transition state, the state management section directly supplies the real number to the configuration information storage section in the next or later processing cycle. |
| US09021233B2 |
Interleaving data accesses issued in response to vector access instructions
A vector data access unit includes data access ordering circuitry, for issuing data access requests indicated by elements of earlier and a later vector instructions, one being a write instruction. An element indicating the next data access for each of the instructions is determined. The next data accesses for the earlier and the later instructions may be reordered. The next data access of the earlier instruction is selected if the position of the earlier instruction's next data element is less than or equal to the position of the later instruction's next data element minus a predetermined value. The next data access of the later instruction may be selected if the position of the earlier instruction's next data element is higher than the position of the later instruction's next data element minus a predetermined value. Thus data accesses from earlier and later instructions are partially interleaved. |
| US09021232B2 |
Multipath storage system and method of operating thereof
There is provided a method of operating a multipath storage system, the method comprises: identifying a primary storage control port configured to be responsible for a given LBA range and a secondary storage control port configured to have secondary responsibility for the given LBA range; reducing, in a manner unaffecting respective inbound I/O operation, outbound I/O operation related to the given LBA range and occurring at the primary storage control port, thereby causing a situation requiring switching all respective I/O requests to an alternating path; analyzing responsive changes in outbound I/O operation related to the given LBA range and occurring at the secondary storage control port, and verifying operability of switching to the alternating path in accordance with the obtained results. Outbound I/O operation can be reduced with the help of a routine configured to identify inbound I/O requests directed to the given LBA range and to put these requests on hold for a delay period, thus giving rise to delayed I/O requests, wherein the delay period is configured to be long enough to enable switching to an alternating path. |
| US09021226B2 |
Moving blocks of data between main memory and storage class memory
An abstraction for storage class memory is provided that hides the details of the implementation of storage class memory from a program, and provides a standard channel programming interface for performing certain actions, such as controlling movement of data between main storage and storage class memory or managing storage class memory. |
| US09021224B2 |
Method and apparatus for enhanced computer security
A computer system and an access restriction method may be used to enable security and improve reliability. The computer system includes a first storage apparatus and a second storage apparatus. The first storage apparatus provides a first logical volume from/to which a host apparatus reads and writes data, and the second storage apparatus provides a virtual second logical volume obtained by virtualizing the first logical volume of the first storage apparatus to the host apparatus. The first path information relates to a path from the host apparatus to the second logical volume registered in the first storage apparatus in association with the first logical volume of the first storage apparatus. Reservation of and access to the first logical volume is granted only for a reservation request and access request with matching path information from the host apparatus. |
| US09021223B2 |
Resilient mirroring
An apparatus and associated method including a first storage device and a second storage device, each coupled to a remote server independently of the other via a network. Resilient mirroring logic is stored in each of the storage devices that establishes a peer-to-peer communication connection with the other storage device in response to receiving a data access command from the remote server. |
| US09021222B1 |
Managing incremental cache backup and restore
A method is used for managing incremental cache backup and restore. I/O operations are quiesced at a cache module. A first snapshot of a storage object and a second snapshot of an SSD cache object are taken. The I/O operations at the cache module are unquiesced. A single backup image comprising the first snapshot and the second snapshot is created. |
| US09021221B2 |
Cascaded, point-in-time-copy architecture with data deduplication
A method for performing a write to a volume x in a cascaded architecture is described. In one embodiment, such a method includes determining whether the volume x has a child volume, wherein each of the volume x and the child volume have a target bit map (TBM) associated therewith. The method then determines whether the TBMs of both the volume x and the child volume are set. If the TBMs are set, the method finds a higher source (HS) volume from which to copy the desired data to the child volume. Finding the HS volume includes travelling up the cascaded architecture until the source of the data is found. Once the HS volume is found, the method copies the data from the HS volume to the child volume and performs the write to the volume x. A method for performing a read is also disclosed herein. |
| US09021220B2 |
Orphan storage release
A method, system and computer readable medium that identify orphan storage and release the orphaned storage before application or system outages can result. More specifically, in certain embodiments, a method, system and computer readable medium periodically scan through common memory storage and identifies those areas that are no longer associated with a running task or have been allocated for longer than a running task with a matching task address. These areas are then identified as potentially orphaned storage locations. |
| US09021217B2 |
Communication apparatus, load distribution method, and recording medium
A first communication apparatus includes a first central processing core; and a first memory. The first communication apparatus executes load distribution based on a first load amount of the first communication apparatus and a second load amount of a second communication apparatus that includes a second central processing core and a second memory. The first communication apparatus executes first load distribution when the first communication apparatus and the second communication apparatus perform wireless communication. The first communication apparatus executes second load distribution when the first communication apparatus and the second communication apparatus perform wired communication. |
| US09021216B2 |
Storage device and controlling method thereof
A controlling method of a storage device is provided. The storage device is in communication with a handheld electronic device. Firstly, a connection status is provided to the handheld electronic device from the storage device, so that the connection status is shown on the handheld electronic device. The connection status indicates that a first storage unit is connected with the storage device. Then, a specified file of the first storage unit is selected according to the connection status shown on the handheld electronic device. Then, a read command is issued from the storage device to the first storage unit, and the specified file of the first storage unit is read in response to the read command. Afterwards, the specified file is stored into the storage device, and a storing result is provided to the handheld electronic device. |
| US09021215B2 |
Storage system exporting internal storage rules
A data storage method includes, in a memory controller that accepts memory access commands from a host for execution in one or more memory units, holding a definition of a policy to be applied by the memory controller in the execution of the memory access commands in the memory units. The policy is reported from the memory controller to the host so as to cause the host to format memory access commands based on the reported policy. |
| US09021214B2 |
Storage system and method for controlling memory in storage system
According to a storage system of a prior art adopting a cluster structure, various types of large-capacity memories were arranged to enhance the access performance, so that the system required a dedicated control circuit, and there was difficulty in realizing cost reduction and improvement of access performance simultaneously. In order to solve the problems, the present invention provides a storage system in which a group of memories is integrated to MPU memories directly coupled to MPUs in respective controller units, wherein each MPU memory is divided into a duplication information area and a non-duplication information area, and attribute information for controlling accesses thereto are provided. Further, each duplication information area is provided with a double master information area capable of referring to a first memory and a second memory and a single master information area capable of referring only to either the first memory or the second memory, and the accesses thereto are performed based on the attribute information. |
| US09021208B2 |
Information processing device, memory management method, and computer-readable recording medium
An information processing device includes a memory and a processor coupled to the memory, wherein the processor executes a process comprising selecting data included in a same file as deletion target data from the memory when deleting the data cached in the memory at the caching from the memory and deleting the deletion target data and the data selected at the selecting, from the memory. |
| US09021207B2 |
Management of cache size
In response to a processor core exiting a low-power state, a cache is set to a minimum size so that fewer than all of the cache's entries are available to store data, thus reducing the cache's power consumption. Over time, the size of the cache can be increased to account for heightened processor activity, thus ensuring that processing efficiency is not significantly impacted by a reduced cache size. In some embodiments, the cache size is increased based on a measured processor performance metric, such as an eviction rate of the cache. In some embodiments, the cache size is increased at regular intervals until a maximum size is reached. |
| US09021202B2 |
Delivering secured media using a portable memory device
In some embodiments an interface of a portable memory device is used to store content information in a hidden memory region of the portable memory device. The interface is also used to store information in a visible memory region of the portable memory device. The information stored in the visible memory region allows the content information stored in the hidden memory region to be accessed. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
| US09021200B1 |
Data storage system with predictive management of physical storage use by virtual disks
A computer of a data storage system carries out user input-output requests for data of a set of virtual disks by performing back-end input-output requests to a set of overprovisioned storage devices providing underlying physical storage. A set of time series of utilization measures are continually generated and stored, with each reflecting an amount of a given virtual disk consumed by user data at a given time. The time series are used to generate predicted utilization measures, each being an estimate of an amount of a given virtual disk expected to be consumed by user data at a future time. A fullness probability measure is generated by aggregating the predicted utilization measures, and it reflects a probability that the set of overprovisioned storage devices will be fully consumed by user data at the future time. When the fullness probability measure is above a threshold value, then a system management operation is performed to change operation of the data storage system to avoid full consumption of the overprovisioned storage devices by the virtual disks. For example, the mapping of virtual disks to the overprovisioned storage device is changed in a manner reducing usage of the overprovisioned storage device. The mapping as changed is used for subsequent user input-output requests for data of the virtual disks. |
| US09021189B2 |
System and method for performing efficient processing of data stored in a storage node
A system and method of providing enhanced data processing and analysis in a storage device, such as a solid state drive (SSD). The SSD includes flash memory and an SSD processing unit capable of executing searches on the data in the flash memory without returning all of the data to be searched to a host CPU outside of the SSD. Other processing capabilities incorporated into the SSD may include encryption and decryption, compression and decompression, and in-line indexing of data. |
| US09021188B1 |
Small block write operations in non-volatile memory systems
A first portion of an asymmetric memory is configured as temporary storage for application data units with sizes corresponding to a small memory block that is smaller than the size of a logical write unit associated with the asymmetric memory. A portion of the remaining asymmetric memory is configured as a reconciled storage for application data units with varying sizes. A first application data unit is received for writing to the asymmetric memory. Based on computing the size of the first application data unit as corresponding to the small memory block, the first application data unit is written to the temporary storage. Upon determining that a threshold is reached, a memory write operation is performed for writing the application data units from the temporary storage to the reconciled storage. The application data units written to the reconciled storage are removed from the temporary storage. |
| US09021186B2 |
Partial allocate paging mechanism using a controller and a buffer
A memory system is provided. The system includes a controller that regulates read and write access to one or more FLASH memory devices that are employed for random access memory applications. A buffer component operates in conjunction with the controller to regulate read and write access to the one or more FLASH devices. Wear leveling components along with read and write processing components are provided to facilitate efficient operations of the FLASH memory devices. |
| US09021182B2 |
Flash memory for code and data storage
A flash memory for code and data storage includes a code memory array having fast read access and suitability for execute in place, a data memory array having the characteristics of low bit cost and high density storage, and a suitable interface to provide access to both the code and data. The code memory array may be a NOR array or a performance-enhanced NAND array. The memory may be implemented in a single chip package or multi-chip package solution. |
| US09021181B1 |
Memory management for unifying memory cell conditions by using maximum time intervals
A method includes accepting data for storage in a memory that is partitioned into multiple memory regions. A memory region is selected for storing the data. At least part of the data is stored in the selected memory region, subject to verifying that all the storage operations applied to the selected memory region are performed within a predefined maximum time interval. |
| US09021180B2 |
Clearing blocks of storage class memory
An abstraction for storage class memory is provided that hides the details of the implementation of storage class memory from a program, and provides a standard channel programming interface for performing certain actions, such as controlling movement of data between main storage and storage class memory or managing storage class memory. |
| US09021177B2 |
System and method for allocating and using spare blocks in a flash memory
A method for using a single spare block pool in flash memory comprising: allocating a plurality of flash memory arrays, wherein each flash memory array comprises a plurality of flash memory blocks; within a main flash memory array: allocating a used block pool comprising a plurality of used blocks and allocating a main spare block pool comprising a plurality of spare blocks; within each of the other flash memory arrays: allocating a used block pool comprising multiple used blocks; allocating a minimum spare block pool comprising a minimum number of spare blocks; allocating the main spare block pool and each of the minimum spare block pools to a single spare block pool; transferring a spare block from the main spare block pool to one of the minimum spare block pools; and transferring a spare block from a first minimum spare block pool to a second minimum spare block pool. |
| US09021174B2 |
Interface for bridging out-of-band information from a downstream communication link to an upstream communication link
A device includes a first interface to receive a signal from a first communication link, wherein the receive signal includes out-of-band (OOB) information. A detector coupled to the first interface detects the OOB information. An encoder coupled to the detector encodes the OOB information into one or more symbols (e.g., control characters). A second interface is coupled to the encoder and a second communication link (e.g., a serial transport path). The second interface transmits the symbols on the second communication link. The device also includes mechanisms for preventing false presence detection of terminating devices. |
| US09021173B2 |
High speed differential wiring strategy for serially attached SCSI systems
A serial attached SCSI (SAS) system may include a host bus adaptor, a bus expander, and a multi-layer data transmission medium coupled between the host bus adaptor and the bus expander. The multi-layer data transmission medium may include a first microstrip structure located at a top surface portion of the multi-layer data transmission medium and a first stripline structure located within a first internal portion of the multi-layer data transmission medium. The microstrip structure provides, among other things, a repeaterless high-speed serial communications link between the host bus adaptor and the bus expander. |
| US09021163B1 |
Determining whether a data storage is encrypted
A method, program and/or system for determining whether a data storage is encrypted. A file is written through a first path to the data storage. The file is read through a second path from the data storage. First data known to have been written in the file is compared to second data that has been read from the file. When the first data matches the second data, the first path is determined not to have encrypted the file when writing to the data storage. When the first data does not match the second data, the first path is determined to have encrypted the file when writing to the data storage. |
| US09021158B2 |
Program suspend/resume for memory
A memory device includes a memory array with a plurality of memory elements. Each memory element is configured to store data. The device includes an input/output (I/O) buffer coupled to the memory array. The I/O buffer is configured to receive data from an I/O interface of a memory device controller and write the data to the memory array. The device includes a memory control manager coupled to the memory array. The memory control manager is configured to pause a program operation to the memory array in response to receiving a pause command. The memory control manager is also configured to resume the program operation in response to receiving a resume command. |
| US09021156B2 |
Integrating intellectual property (IP) blocks into a processor
In one embodiment, the present invention includes apparatus that is formed on a single semiconductor die having one or more cores, a memory controller, and a hub coupled to the memory controller. The hub includes multiple fabrics each to communicate with a peripheral controller via a target interface and a master interface according to a first protocol, and where the fabrics are serially coupled via a first plurality of target interfaces in an upstream direction and a second plurality of target interfaces in a downstream direction. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
| US09021153B2 |
Direct memory access system and method using the same
The invention discloses a DMA system capable of being adapted to various interfaces. The DMA system includes the following advantages: 1) the software porting effort can be reduced when different interfaces are integrated into a SoC; 2) a flexible DMA that could provide protocol transparency and could be ported into different interfaces easily; 3) a scalable DMA that can support unlimited TX/RX scattering/gathering data segments; 4) a reusable DMA that provides user defined TX information (or RX information) and TX message (or RX message) field; and 5) a high performance DMA that support unaligned segment data pointers and unlimited scattering/gathering data segments, so as to reduce extra memory copies by CPU. |
| US09021152B2 |
Methods and systems for determining memory usage ratings for a process configured to run on a device
Methods and systems for determining memory usage ratings for system processes and providing for display are described. An example method may include determining, by a processor, a memory usage value for a process configured to run on a computing device over a time period, and the memory usage value is indicative of an amount of memory of the computing device that the process uses while running. The method may also include determining a memory usage rating for the process based on the memory usage value and a run time for the process. The memory usage rating for the process indicates an amount of memory the process uses over the time period and the run time indicates how long the process runs during the time period. The method may also include providing for display, by the processor, a representation of the memory usage rating of the process over the time period. |
| US09021151B2 |
Circuit and method of control of DDC data transmission for video display device
A video processing device includes a connecting unit that is connected to an external apparatus via an interface including a HPD line and a DDC line, a memory that stores EDID, with the EDID being transmitted via the DDC line; and a control unit that performs a predetermined process for resetting a state of the HPD line if a predetermined error relating to a transmission of EDID is detected. The control unit changes a state of the video processing device to a power off state if a number of times that the predetermined process is performed is not less than a predetermined value. |
| US09021150B2 |
Storage device supporting periodic writes while in a low power mode for an electronic device
A storage device including a non-volatile memory configured to store data from a host, and a controller. The controller is configured to detect when the host is in a low power periodic update mode, the detecting based at least on part on a timing of a communication from the host, and place the storage device in a power up in standby mode when the host is in the low power periodic update mode. |
| US09021148B2 |
Fast path userspace RDMA resource error detection
Mechanisms are provided for providing an early warning of an error state of a remote direct memory access (RDMA) resource to a userspace application. The mechanisms detect, using kernelspace logic, an error event having occurred, and perform a write operation to write an error state value to a userspace shared memory state data structure indicating the RDMA resource to be in an error state. The mechanisms detect, using userspace logic, the RDMA resource being in an error state by reading the error state value from the userspace shared memory state data structure in response to a userspace application attempting to perform a RDMA operation using the RDMA resource. In addition, the mechanisms initiate, by the userspace application, an operation to tear down the RDMA resource in response to detecting the RDMA resource being in the error state. |
| US09021144B2 |
Buffer status report triggers in wireless communications
Systems and methodologies are described that facilitate utilizing timers in conjunction with transmitting buffer status reports (BSR). A prohibit timer can be utilized to determine when BSRs can be transmitted to an eNB. The prohibit timer can be initialized or restarted upon transmitting a BSR to an eNB. A BSR retransmit timer can be used to determine when to retransmit a BSR. The BSR retransmit timer can be initialized upon transmitting a BSR to an eNB and restarted each time an uplink resource allocation is received from the eNB. Once the timer expires, if an uplink transmission buffer contains data (e.g., size>0), the BSR can be retransmitted to the eNB. Control data feedback can additionally be used to determine when to retransmit the BSR. In addition, in either case, the timer duration values can be provided by the eNB. |
| US09021141B2 |
Data storage controller and method for exposing information stored in a data storage controller to a host system
A data storage controller exposes information stored in a locally managed volatile memory store to a host system. The locally managed volatile memory store is mapped to a corresponding portion of a peripheral component interconnect express (PCIe) compliant memory space managed by the host system. Backup logic in the data storage controller responds to a power event detected at the interface between the data storage controller and the host system by copying the contents of the volatile memory store to a non-volatile memory store on the data storage controller. Restore logic restores a data storage controller state by copying the contents of the non-volatile memory store to the locally managed volatile memory store upon the application of power such that the data in the volatile memory store is persistent even in the event of a loss of power to the host system and or the data storage controller. |
| US09021132B2 |
Address translation method, address translation proxy response method, address translation device, and address translation proxy response device
An address translation device includes an address translation part containing information on correspondence between pseudo addresses and real addresses of a first network and a second network having respective address spaces independent of each other, the first network and the second network being connected by multiple address translation devices including the address translation device; an address translation request reception part configured to receive an address translation request with respect to a pseudo IP address contained in the address translation part; an address resolution response determination part configured to determine whether to respond to the address translation request in accordance with a predetermined rule based on the source address of the received address translation request; and a response part configured to respond to the address translation request based on the determination by the address resolution response determination part. |
| US09021130B1 |
Photonic line sharing for high-speed routers
Embodiments of the present invention present a method and apparatus for photonic line sharing for high-speed routers. Photonic switches receive high-speed optical data streams and produce the data streams to a router operating according to routing logic and produce optical data streams according to destination addresses stored in the data packets. Each photonic switch can be configured as one of a 1:N multiplexer or an M:N cross-connect switch. In one embodiment, optical data is converted to electrical data prior to routing, while an alternate embodiment routes only optical data. Another embodiment transfers large volumes of high-speed data through an optical bypass line in a circuit switched network to bypass the switch fabric thereby routing the data packets directly to the destination. An edge device selects one of the packet switched network or the circuit switched network. The bypass resources are released when the large volume of high-speed data is transferred. |
| US09021128B2 |
Request routing using network computing components
A system, method and computer-readable medium for request routing. A DNS server at a content delivery network service provider obtains a DNS query corresponding to a resource requested from a client computing device and associated with a first resource identifier. The first resource identifier includes a first portion with DNS information and a second portion with path information. The DNS server selects a network computing component for processing the requested resource based on the DNS portion of the resource identifier and transmits information identifying the selected network computing component to the client computing device. |
| US09021126B2 |
Data processing apparatus and method for controlling data processing apparatus
A data processing apparatus includes multiple processing means that are connected in a ring shape via corresponding communication means respectively. Each communication means includes a reception means for receiving data from a previous communication means, and a transmission means for transmitting data to a next communication means. Connection information is assigned to each of the reception means and the transmission means. The communication means, when receiving a packet that has same connection information as one assigned to its reception means, causes the corresponding processing means to perform data processing on the packet, sets the connection information assigned to its transmission means to the packet, and transmits the packet to the next communication means, and when receiving a packet that has connection information that is not same as one assigned to its reception means, transmits the packet to the next communication means without changing the connection information of the packet. |
| US09021124B2 |
Distributed intelligent network
A network appliance (40) includes a processor (48) and a Host Bus Adapter (HBA-44). The processor is configured to execute storage commands in one or more storage devices (28A, 28B). The HBA is coupled to a network (32) so as to receive communication frames sent over the network to the network appliance, and is configured to filter the received communication frames so as to pass through to the processor only a subset of the received communication frames, which correspond to the storage commands that have been sent by one or more applications for processing by the network appliance. |
| US09021122B2 |
Monitoring streams buffers for backlogs of data tuples to optimize operator processing
Method, system and computer program product for performing an operation, including providing a plurality of processing elements comprising one or more operators, the operators configured to process streaming data tuples, establishing an operator graph of multiple operators, the operator graph defining at least one execution path in which a first operator is configured to receive data tuples from at least one upstream operator and transmit data tuples to at least one downstream operator, providing each operator a buffer configured to hold data tuples requiring processing receiving a plurality of data tuples in a buffer associated with an operator, the data tuples comprising at least one attribute, determining a backlog exists in the first buffer, selecting at least one data tuple from the first buffer, examining an attribute of the selected data tuples to identify a candidate tuple, and performing a second operation on the candidate tuple. |
| US09021121B2 |
Setting a rate of data transmission in a peer-to-peer mode
An apparatus and method are presented for a maximum speed criterion for a velocity gesture. The apparatus includes a processor, a memory, a determination module and a transmission module. The determination module determines, through a wireless communication infrastructure mode, an amount of wireless network activity. The transmission module sets a rate of data transmission in a peer to peer mode based on the amount of wireless network activity. |
| US09021114B2 |
Automatic connection of computing devices
In one embodiment, a method of connecting to a client computing device is provided. The method is performed at a computing device, and in this method a connection is made to the client computing device. An inventory of the client computing device is then accessed. This inventory is stored in a storage device accessible by way of a computer network. Here, the storage device is separate from the client computing device and the computing device. A connection failure between the computing device and the client computing device is detected and thereafter, the inventory from the storage device is retrieved by way of the computer network. A reconnection to the client computing device can then be made based on the retrieved inventory. |
| US09021113B2 |
Inter-service sharing of content between users from different social networks
Sharing content between users of different social networks includes: in a source social network implemented by at least one processor, receiving shared content uploaded by a source user with an indication of a number of recipients of the shared content; establishing a trusted communication link between the source social network and at least one external social network; and allowing the number of recipients to retrieve the shared content from the source social network via the trusted communication link. |
| US09021108B2 |
Method, system and apparatus for enabling access of a first mobile electronic device to at least one network accessible by a second mobile electronic device
A method, system and apparatus for or automatically enabling access of a first mobile electronic device to at least one network accessible by a second mobile electronic device, the second mobile electronic device storing configuration data for accessing the at least one network. A communication session is automatically established between the first mobile electronic device and the second mobile electronic device via a local link. The configuration data is automatically received at the first mobile electronic device from the second mobile electronic device via the local link in response to establishing the communication session. The configuration data is automatically installed at the first mobile electronic device such that the at least one network is accessible by the first mobile electronic device using the configuration data. |
| US09021106B2 |
Peer-to-peer identity management interfaces and methods
Peer-to-peer (P2P) application programming interfaces (APIs) that allow an application to create, import, export, manage, enumerate, and delete P2P identities are presented. Further, the management of group identity information is provided. APIs abstract away from low level credential and cryptographic functions required to create and manage P2P identities. This management includes retrieval and setting of a friendly name, generation of a cryptographic public/private key pair, retrieval of security information in the form of an XML fragment, and creation of a new name based on an existing identity. |
| US09021100B1 |
Tunneling DHCP options in authentication messages
An example network device includes network interfaces and a control unit that receives a network configuration request from a client device and sends a network configuration response to the client device. The control unit comprises a network configuration protocol module that generates an authentication request in accordance with a network authentication protocol such that the authentication request includes a request for a second set of network configuration parameters based on a request for a first set of network configuration parameters in the network configuration request, and generates the network configuration response in accordance with the network configuration protocol, wherein the network configuration response is based on an authentication response generated by a second network device in accordance with the network authentication protocol, wherein the authentication response comprises a third set of network configuration parameters based on the request for the second set of network configuration parameters. |
| US09021099B2 |
Load balancing secure FTP connections among multiple FTP servers
System and method for load balancing multiple file transfer protocol (FTP) servers to service secure FTP sessions having encrypted signals are disclosed. In one aspect, embodiments of the system include multiple FTP servers coupled to a load balancing agent. Each of the multiple FTP servers is associated with a unique port range and the load balancer receives an encrypted data signal in a secure FTP session on a given port and uses a port range within which the given port falls to identify which of the multiple FTP servers a corresponding control signal of the secure FTP session was previously sent. |
| US09021098B1 |
Allocation of interface identifiers within network device having multiple forwarding components
In general techniques are described for allocating global identifiers to forwarding units of a network device. A network device having one or more hardware-based microprocessors and an allocation module executable by the microprocessors may implement the techniques. The allocation module may maintain a first map that indicates global identifiers that are allocable to a plurality of forwarding units of the network device, and a second map that indicates local identifiers that are allocated to one of the plurality of forwarding units. The local identifiers may be based at least in part on the global identifiers. The allocation module may allocate to the forwarding unit, a global identifier indicated by the first map that is not allocated to any one of the plurality of forwarding units by comparing the second map to one or more portions of the first map to identify the unallocated global identifier of the first map. |
| US09021093B2 |
Managing and securing manageable resources in stateless web server architecture using servlet filters
Access is controlled to managed resources in a stateless web server architecture including a stateless web server computing platform; a resource locator map portion of the stateless web server computing platform providing a unique resource locator code representing each managed resource in a stateless web server architecture, wherein the managed resource is assigned to a plurality of application program components; a set of servlet filters disposed in a portion of the stateless web server computing platform, each servlet filter associated with one of the application program components; a resource locator matcher portion of the stateless web server computing platform, responsive to a user request to a unique resource locator, matching a pattern in the user request to one or more of the application program components using a corresponding servlet filter; and a request dispatcher portion of the stateless web server computing platform sending the user request to the matched application program component, wherein the application program component receives and processes the user request. |
| US09021091B2 |
Transaction middleware based application level transaction instance tracking across a composite application
Responsive to transactional middleware for a particular domain processing a particular transaction instance at a processing point specified in transaction telemetry standards as a tracking point along a flow of the particular transaction, a facility of the middleware accesses correlation data for the particular transaction instance in the particular domain and extracts application level context information about the particular transaction instance from the particular domain, wherein the transaction telemetry standards specify a same set of standards for application by each separate transactional middleware instance of a composite application. At least one facility of the transactional middleware creates a tracking event comprising the correlation data and the application level context information formatted into an event structure defined by the transaction tracking standards. At least one facility of the transactional middleware surfaces the tracking event in compliance with the transaction telemetry standards. |
| US09021087B1 |
Method to improve caching accuracy by using snapshot technology
Methods and systems for improving caching accuracy utilizing snapshot technology are provided. One or more requests for data are received. When the requests for data return valid data, the valid data is stored within a cache. The response performance of a server device is monitored. When the response performance of the server device is above a predetermined threshold, one or more snapshot versions of a memory block are taken. The memory block may include the current state of the valid data at the time the snapshot version was taken. Upon receiving a warm-up cache signal for the cache, a snapshot version is used to populate the cache and sent to a client device. |
| US09021085B1 |
Method and system for web filtering
A technique for web filtering includes monitoring and recording completed DNS (domain name service) transactions involving a user computer. The user computer may thereafter issue an HTTP (hypertext transport protocol) request to a remote server computer, with the HTTP request including an IP address of the server computer instead of its domain name. The HTTP request may be correlated with the recorded completed DNS transactions to obtain the domain name of the server computer. The domain name of the server computer may be employed to determine the reputation of the domain name for web filtering purposes. |
| US09021084B2 |
Network device discovery
A system and method enable a local area network connected mobile device to discover, via an ancillary wireless communication channel, a local area network connected device and install the appropriate driver and network configuration information when the mobile device and network connected device are brought into physical close proximity with each other. |
| US09021083B2 |
Service oriented architecture with dynamic policy enforcement points
A repository receives a policy enforcement point. The repository is a component of a service oriented architecture. A repository manager identifies a service associated with a service level agreement that specifies the policy enforcement point. The policy enforcement point is transmitted to the service. The policy enforcement point is then installed on the service without interrupting the service. |
| US09021081B2 |
System and method for collecting individualized network usage data in a personal hotspot wireless network
A method for collecting individualized network usage data includes routing Internet communications between a plurality of local clients and a plurality of remote servers over a common data link between a router device and the Internet. For each of the plurality of clients, characteristics of that client's communications routed over the data link are monitored at the router device. A collection of statistics reflecting the monitored characteristics are maintained. From the router device, the collection of statistics are periodically communicated over the data link to an interested server. |
| US09021080B2 |
Method and system to associate geographic location information with a network address using a combination of automated and manual processes
A method and a system map a geographic location to a network address. At least one automated process is performed to identify a geographic location for the network address. A determination is made whether the automated process provided satisfactory geographic location information for the network address. If the automated process did not provided satisfactory geographic location information for the network address, then the network address is forwarded for manual resolution. |
| US09021079B2 |
Domain name service server
A DNS server system provides IP addresses for a host in a computer network. Upon receiving a request from a client for an IP address associated with a domain name, the requested IP address is retrieved from an object oriented database and transmitted to the client. The DNS server system provides configuration access from a client in a computer network. Communicative coupling is established between a client web browser and a DNS server system web server. A user interface adapted to provide configuration access to a DNS server system is requested. The user interface is downloaded from the DNS server system over the computer network. |
| US09021076B2 |
Managing inventory data for components of a server system
Techniques are disclosed for managing inventory data for components of a server system. In one embodiment, a global management controller is provided, that is operatively connected to a plurality of local management controllers. Each local management controller is configured to manage a subset of the components of the server system. Each local management controller is also configured to generate, for each component, a checksum based on vital product data (VPD) of the component. Each local management controller is also configured to compute a composite checksum based on the checksums generated for the components in the subset. The global management controller is configured to maintain a global view of the VPD in the computer system, based on the checksums and/or composite checksums. |
| US09021072B2 |
Localized media offload
A method includes receiving, by an Internet Protocol (IP) anchor point, a session request to a network originating from a user equipment (UE); assigning an IP address to the UE; determining whether a reverse IP address registration is permitted to a first network device, wherein the reverse IP address registration permits a media flow associated with the IP address and the UE to omit traversing the IP anchor point; and assigning an ownership of the IP address to the first network device when reverse IP address registration is permitted. |
| US09021070B2 |
Dynamically modifying a toolbar
The present invention comprises a method of and apparatus for simplifying the process of access to a network for a roaming computer user, divides the responsibility of servicing a given user wanting to access the network between multiple parties and minimizes the possibility of improper dissemination of email header data as well as improper use of network resources (including server systems) by non-clients. |
| US09021068B2 |
Managing a networked storage configuration
Managing a networked storage system having a host operable to connect through a network fabric to storage apparatus comprises: a configuration component for inputting a configuration change into the networked storage system responsive to change instructions; a monitoring component operable in communication with the host and the network fabric to monitor I/O activity associated with elements of the networked storage system; an activity data storage component responsive to the monitoring component for storing a record of a monitored I/O activity; an analysis component, responsive to the configuration component for inputting configuration changes, for analysing the record of a monitored I/O activity for a recent activity; and an alert component, responsive to the analysis component detecting a recent activity, for alerting the configuration component. |
| US09021066B1 |
Providing A-priori information about implication of operator interaction with network device
Techniques are described for providing a-priori information about the implication of a network device operator interaction with a network device, e.g., a software configuration or hardware change, to be performed on the network device before the interaction actually takes place. The network device operator is provided with information that may be used to make a decision whether to proceed with the interaction. For each logically distinct feature of a network device, the techniques generate a trigger outcome domain (TOD). Each TOD is defined to include a list of operator interactions that defines relevant events in the network device that may be triggerable by the operator interactions, a list of potential outcomes in the network based on the potential events in the network device, and a user interface to display the list of potential outcomes for the operator interactions prior to performing any of the interactions. |
| US09021059B2 |
Data hub server
Apparatus and methods to engage in accessing informational content in a data hub server, where the informational content is identified as public or partially public to a group registered in the data hub server with permission to access the informational content made public or partially public in the data hub server by another entity, provide a mechanism to enhance the communication capabilities among mobile electronic devices. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed. |
| US09021054B2 |
Electronic information caching
Electronic information is made more readily available to one or more access requestors based on an anticipated demand for the electronic information using a process, system or computer software. For instance, electronic information stored on a first storage medium is identified for transport (e.g., in response to a request of at least one of the access requestors), and the electronic information is transported accordingly. Afterwards, a determination is made to store the electronic information on a second storage medium that is more accessible to the access requestors than the first storage medium. The determination is based on an anticipated demand of the access requestors for the electronic information. The anticipated demand is determined based at least on information that is not particular to any single access requestor. The electronic information then is stored on the second storage medium and the access requestors are provided access to the electronic information from the second storage medium. |
| US09021053B2 |
Method and device for writing data to a data storage system comprising a plurality of data storage nodes
There is disclosed a method for writing data in a data storage system comprising a plurality of data storage nodes, the method being employed in a server running an application which accesses data in the data storage system, and comprising: sending a multicast storage query to a plurality of said storage nodes; receiving a plurality of responses from a subset of said storage nodes, said responses including a storage node property; selecting at least two storage nodes in the subset for storing said data, based on said responses, wherein the selecting is based on a data property of the data to be stored and a storage node property. |
| US09021050B2 |
Network service system and method with off-heap caching
A method for providing data over a network using an application server having off-heap caching includes receiving at an application server coupled to a network a request for requested data, using an key index stored on the application server to locate where the requested data is stored in oil-heap memory of the application server, retrieving the requested data from the off-heap memory of the application server, and resolving the request. |
| US09021047B2 |
Method and system for delivering embedded objects in a webpage to a user agent using a network device
A method and system for delivering embedded objects in a webpage to a user agent using a network device is described. In one embodiment, a method for delivering embedded objects in a webpage to a user agent using a network device is described. The method for delivering embedded objects in a webpage to a user agent using a network device involves intercepting a webpage at a network device, where the webpage is transmitted from a web server and is destined to a user agent, scanning the webpage at the network device to discover links that are embedded in the webpage, obtaining an object that is identified by one of the links at the network device, and transmitting the object from the network device to the user agent as soon as the object is obtained at the network device. Other embodiments are also described. |
| US09021045B2 |
Sharing images in a social network
Embodiments of the present invention provide for a shared photo space that is synchronized among members of a social network or group. In some embodiments, users of a social group automatically pull photos directly from all registered hard drives of clients and online services and mirror them around the group, thus making the collection available to the social network of users. |
| US09021044B2 |
Modular intelligent power system
A system for monitoring or controlling conditions or apparatuses in a home, business or other suitable place is provided. The system includes a first master module that is operative to communicate with a device over an Internet network. The system further includes a server that is operatively connected to the device and the first master module. The server is operative to allow communication between the first master module and the device. The system also includes a first slave module operatively connected to the first master module. The first master module is operative to direct data between the first slave module and the server. The first slave module is operative to establish communication with the first master module through a plug and play connection. The device is operative to allow at least one of controlling and monitoring the first slave module through the server and the first master module. |
| US09021038B2 |
Message delivery in messaging networks
In response to receipt of a request message from a requester, a reply message is created. The reply message includes a message identifier of the request message copied from the received request message. The reply message is published to each of a group of replicated message queues. The reply message is identifiable by the requester using the copied message identifier of the request message on any one of the group of replicated message queues prior to being consumed by the requester. |
| US09021037B2 |
Systems and methods for controlling email access
Embodiments of the disclosure relate to proxying at least one email resource from at least one email service to at least one client device, determining whether the email resources are accessible to the client devices via at least one unauthorized application on the client devices, and modifying the email resources to be inaccessible via the unauthorized applications on the client devices in response to a determination that the email resources are accessible via the unauthorized applications on the client devices. |
| US09021033B2 |
Method to change instant messaging status based on text entered during conversation
An embodiment of the invention provides a method for communication within a system, wherein an instant messaging conversation is initiated between a first user and a second user. An indicator and a text entry are received from the first user during the instant messaging conversation. The status of the first user is changed, including automatically setting the text entry as the status of the first user, and automatically including the name of the second user in the status of the first user if preferences of the first user indicate that the name of the second user is to be included in the status of the first user. Further, the text entry is automatically sent to the second user if the preferences of the first user indicate that a text entry following the indicator is to be automatically sent to the second user. |
| US09021028B2 |
Systems and methods for spam filtering
Systems and methods to reduce false positives in spam filtering. In one aspect, a method includes automatically generating profiles for persons identified in messages, such as incoming and outgoing emails. Messages flagged as spam can be checked against the profile to identify false positives. |
| US09021026B2 |
System and method for enhanced experience with a peer to peer network
A system and method for implementing a peer to peer (P2P) network that includes a plurality of nodes, wherein each of a majority of the nodes has less than a threshold number of P2P connections to other nodes in the network. A P2P network connection is established between a first node from the majority and an enhanced connection node in the network, wherein the enhanced connection node has more than the threshold number of P2P connections to other nodes in the network. A search request is issued from the first node by transmitting the search request from the first node to the enhanced connection node, and then forwarding the search request from the enhanced connection node to other nodes in the network. Responses to the search request are collected at the enhanced connection node, which filters, ranks or adds additional content to the responses prior to forwarding the responses back to the first node. |
| US09021025B1 |
System and method of analyzing user engagement activity in social media campaigns
A server-based system is provided for analyzing and valuating social media campaign performance. The system collects online traffic data from member users of a social media channel, and tracks engagement activity with respect to a social media campaign operating on the channel according to parameters defined with respect to specific activities including: user interactions with media content of the campaign; user transactions as non-commercial data exchanges or commercial purchases conducted via the campaign; and user sharing of the campaign with other member users of the social media channel. The system establishes baseline performance thresholds and aggregates the tracked engagement activity with respect to the defined parameters. A graphical user interface is generated to display client feedback related to a comparison of the aggregated engagement activity with the established baseline performance thresholds for each of the defined parameters. |
| US09021019B2 |
Business application platform with embedded business intelligence server
A system is provided in which at least one first server comprises at least one data processor executing a business application platform providing various business applications for access by at least one remote client. In addition, at least one second server comprises at least one data processor executing an embedded business intelligence server (EBIS). The EBIS provides an interface to the platform to at least one business intelligence applications providing business intelligence functionality. With such a system, a unified interface can be rendered on the at least one remote client concurrently provides functionality from the platform and the at least one business intelligence client. Related apparatus, systems, techniques and articles are also described. |
| US09021016B2 |
Method, apparatus and system for managing communications between a computing device and a client machine
A method, apparatus and system for managing communications between a client machine and a mobile computing device. The mobile computing device comprising: a storage configured to maintain a host application; a processor configured to execute the host application; an interface configured to connect to the client machine, the interface further configured to carry a web request from the client machine to the processor, the host application configured to respond to the web request. |
| US09021013B2 |
Ubiquitous web service gateway and method
There is provided a method for providing ubiquitous web services including receiving, at a ubiquitous web service gateway, a request for web service from a web service requester, and sending, at the ubiquitous web service gateway, the request for web service to a web service provider dynamically selected from among web service providers that provide the requested web service, depending on a change in interface information of the web service providers. The method further includes receiving, at the ubiquitous web service gateway, the result of requested web service from the web service provider that received the request for web service, and providing, at the ubiquitous web service gateway, the web service result to the web service requester. |
| US09021011B2 |
Computer or microchip including a network portion with RAM memory erasable by a firewall-protected master controller
A computer or microchip including a master controlling device, network communication components, one or more microprocessors and RAM, an internal hardware firewall located between a protected portion that is protected by the internal hardware firewall and a network portion. The internal hardware firewall denies access to at least the protected portion of the computer or microchip from the network. The firewall permits unrestricted access by the network to the network portion so that processing operations other than network communications and firewall operations conducted with the network are executed by microprocessors and RAM in the network portion. The master controlling device has preemptive control of the microprocessors and RAM in the network portion including erasure of at least a part of the random access memory (RAM) prior to the use of the network portion of the computer or microchip by the user or the operating system. |
| US09021010B1 |
Configuration of applications for distributed computing systems
A distributed computing system includes a primary device and one or more backend devices. The primary device provides a management interface for the distributed computing system. A plurality of applications may be installed on the backend devices for execution. The primary device generates registration data that associates the applications with management interface commands or configuration parameters in response to messages received from the applications. Subsequently, when the primary device receives a particular command at the management interface, the primary device identifies, based on the registration data, a particular application from among the plurality of applications. In response to identifying the application, the primary device may send to the application an outgoing message. |
| US09021008B1 |
Managing targeted scripts
Systems and methods are disclosed that facilitate the evaluation of the operation of host computing devices by utilization of targeted scripts. Each host computing device includes a local targeted script management component that interfaces with a centralized or master targeted script management component. The local targeted script management component obtains targeted scripts, causes the execution of the targeted script and can terminate the targeted script. Additionally, the local targeted script management component can collect information associated with the execution of the targeted scripts and initiate the restoration of previous state in the event that the execution of the targeted script modifies or otherwise affects the host computing device. |
| US09021007B2 |
Enabling interoperability between participants in a network
Interoperability is enabled between participants in a network by determining values associated with a value metric defined for at least a portion of the network. Information flow is directed between two or more of the participants based at least in part on semantic models corresponding to the participants and on the values associated with the value metric. The semantic models may define interactions between the participants and define at least a portion of information produced or consumed by the participants. The determination of the values and the direction of the information flow may be performed multiple times in order to modify the one or more value metrics. The direction of information flow may allow participants to be deleted from the network, may allow participants to be added to the network, or may allow behavior of the participants to be modified. |
| US09021003B2 |
Processor and operating method
Disclosed is a processor that is able to efficiently execute DFT operations without having part of a basic operational circuit idle even during non-DFT-operation processing. The processor (1) has an operational means (operation unit) (2) and a control means (control unit) (3). The operation means (2) has a plurality of shift addition-and-subtraction means connected such that CORDIC (COordinate Rotation DIgital Computer) operations can be executed. The shift adding-and-subtracting means also execute shift addition-and-subtraction processing of butterfly operations that process shift addition-and-subtraction for one stage or more. The control means (3) instructs the operation means (2) to execute either CORDIC operations or butterfly operations, based on a plurality of data received from the outside. |
| US09021002B2 |
Phase-to-amplitude converter for direct digital synthesizer (DDS) with reduced AND and reconstructed ADD logic arrays
A sine wave generator for a Direct Digital Synthesizer (DDS) converts a digital phase input into a digital sine wave output. Sine values and slopes are stored in read-only memory (ROM) for coarse upper phase bits in a first quadrant. A quadrant folder and phase splitter reflects and inverts values from the first quadrant to generate amplitudes for all four quadrants. Each sine value and slope is stored for a range of lower phase bits. A Delta bit separates upper and lower phase bits. Delta conditionally inverts the lower phase bits, the sine value, and the final polarity. A reduced AND logic array multiplies the slope by the conditionally inverted lower phase bits. A reconstructed ADD logic array then adds the conditionally inverted sine value. The conditionally inverted polarity is added to generate the final sine value. Sine generation logic is streamlined with conditional inversion based on the Delta bit. |
| US09020999B2 |
Computing device with automated conversion of units
A method for computer-implemented unit-conversion method, the method comprising identifying a first numerical value in a first system of units displayed on a computing device, converting the first numerical value in the first system of units into a second numerical value, and displaying the second numerical value and the second system of units on the computing device. |
| US09020994B1 |
Client-based migrating of data from content-addressed storage to file-based storage
A client computer migrates data objects from a first data store employing a flat namespace to a second data store employing a hierarchical directory-based file system. File storing includes (1) generating a data object (for user data file) and an object identifier which is returned to an application for use in retrieving the user data file; (2) mapping the object identifier to originate a subdirectory name; and (3) sending a write request to the file system to create the named subdirectory and store the data object therein. File retrieving includes (4) sending a read request including the object identifier to the first data store; (5) extracting a user data file from a received data object and returning it to the application; and (6) performing the steps of the file storing to store the data object at the second data store, completing the migration of the data object. |
| US09020984B1 |
Methods and apparatus for optimizing resource utilization in distributed storage systems
Methods and apparatus for optimizing resource utilization in distributed storage systems. A data migration technique is described that may operate in the background in a distributed storage data center to migrate data among a fleet of storage units to achieve a substantially even and randomized data storage distribution among all storage units in the fleet. When new storage units are added to the fleet and coupled to the data center network, the new storage units are detected. Instead of processing and storing new data to the newly added storage units, as in conventional distributed storage systems, the new units are blocked from general client I/O to allow the data migration technique to migrate data from other, previously installed storage hardware in the data center onto the new storage hardware. Once the storage load on the new storage units is balanced with the rest of the fleet, the new storage units are released for general client I/O. |
| US09020982B2 |
Detection of planar targets under steep angles
Systems, apparatus and methods to create a database by a device (such as a server) and to use the database by a mobile device for detecting a planar target are presented. The database allows recognition of a planar target by a mobile device from steeper angles with minimum impact on runtime. The database is created from at least one warped view of the planar target. For example, a database may contain keypoints and descriptors from a non-warped view and also from one or more warped views. The database may be pruned by removing keypoints and corresponding descriptors of one image (e.g., a warped image) overlapping with similar or identical keypoints and descriptors of another image (e.g., a non-warped image). |
| US09020980B2 |
Method and system of content distribution and broadcast
Methods and systems allowing content owners to make their content available to broadcasters over a network or communications medium such as via the Internet. |
| US09020976B2 |
System and method for processing data in diverse storage systems
In an exemplary embodiment, a system includes a memory and a processor communicatively couple to the memory. The processor is operable to receive a first indication that a first database table is selected from a plurality of database tables, wherein each database table is comprised of rows and columns, and retrieve a first plurality of columns, wherein each column is associated with the first database table. The processor is further operable to facilitate the display of the first plurality of columns, receive a second indication that a first column is selected from the first plurality of columns, and receive a third indication that at least one cell in the first column is selected. The processor is further operable to receive an expected data set, store the expected data set in the at least one cell, and compare a sample data set to the expected data set. |
| US09020972B1 |
System and method for constructing a database instruction
A system and method of the subject technology automatically constructs a database instruction from a template instruction, including one or more variable tokens, and one or more document object representations, each including an object type and a user-generated parameter. The one or more variable tokens in the template instruction are substituted by the user-generated parameter of a corresponding document object representation when the type of a respective variable token is matched to the type of the corresponding document object representation. |
| US09020969B2 |
Tracking queries and retrieved results
Various embodiments of systems and methods for tracking queries and retrieved results are described herein. In one aspect, a first query is associated with a first result set in a first tuple and a second query is associated with a second result set in a second tuple. The first result set is retrieved based on the execution of the first query and the second result set is retrieved based on the execution of the second query. The first and the second tuples are retained in a data structure in the order of execution of the respective queries. The retrieved result sets may be accessed forwards or backwards along the data structure without re-execution of the queries. |
| US09020965B1 |
Social networking relationship ranking and decay
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for retrieving connection score data for a user, the user being a user of a computer-implemented social networking service, the connection score data comprising one or more connections scores, each connection score reflecting a degree of interaction between the user and a respective contact, determining that a first connection score is less than or equal to a minimum connection score, the first connection score being associated with a first contact of the user within the social networking service, and, in response to determining that the first connection score is less than or equal to the minimum connection score, removing the first contact as a contact of the user within the social networking service. |
| US09020961B2 |
Method or system for transforming between trees and arrays
Embodiments of articles, apparatuses, devices and/or systems for manipulating hierarchical sets of data are disclosed herein including, for example, an apparatus that includes a computing platform to transform between a tree and a condensed array of numerals. |
| US09020960B2 |
System and method for modeling relationships between entities
The disclosure describes systems and methods for modeling relationships between entities on a network using data collected from a plurality of communication channels including social data, spatial data, temporal data and logical data within a W4 Network. The W4 Network personalizes and automates sorting, filtering and processing of W4COMN communications delivered or requested to be delivered using personalized value-based ranking and encoding of data, which is modeled from the point-of-view (POV) of any specific user, topic or node in the W4 Distributed graph. POV modeling supplies comparative value services to users which entails individuated data models to be aggregated and used in customization and personalization forecasting for each user and their associated data management needs. |
| US09020953B1 |
Search table for data networking matching
A high efficiency search table is implemented with a multiple hash algorithm. The search table allows for exact match searching of arbitrary data sets with fixed latency. The probability of collisions from the hash algorithms is reduced through the use of oversized pointer tables allowing for a level of indirection between hash values and table entries. In the event of a collision in all hash functions, a firmware assisted cuckoo algorithm is employed to resolve the collision. |
| US09020949B2 |
Method and system for centralized issue tracking
In one example, a method for facilitating centralized issue tracking. The method includes receiving information on a case from an issue tracking system (case information). The method facilitates executing a tagging method stored in a memory device that reads the case information, determines whether a part of the case information is desired information, and then tags the desired information. Finally, the method facilitates communicating the tagged information to a centralized database, where the centralized database stores the tagged information, and where the tagged information is accessible to the issue tracking system and at least one other issue tracking system. |
| US09020943B2 |
Methods, systems, and computer program product for automatically categorizing defects
Disclosed are method(s), system(s), and computer program product(s) for automatically categorizing a defect into a category based at least on a keyword related to the defect. The method identifies information regarding the defect and identifies additional information related to categorizing the defect. The method identifies a keyword and determines whether the defect may be categorized into a category using the keyword. The method further comprises determining if the result of categorization is deterministic. In some embodiments, the method or the system further comprises associating a first score for categorizing the defect into the category based on the keyword and a second score for categorizing the defect into the category based on another keyword. In some embodiments, the method or the system further comprises identifying or determining a relationship between the first score and the second score with respect to the first category for the defect. |
| US09020939B2 |
Correlating queries issued by applications with their source lines and analyzing applications for problem determination and where used analysis
Provided are techniques for invoking with a processor executing on a computer a source code parser to obtain source information that includes a first location of an Application Programming Interface (API) call and parameters of the API call in source code of a client application, where the parameters the API call do not include query text for a query that is to be used to access a database; examining a stack trace to determine a second location of the API call in the stack trace; and deriving the query of the API call and a third location of the query in the source code by identifying the query in the stack trace at the location of the API call in the stack trace. |
| US09020935B2 |
Systems and methods of building and using custom word lists
Standard word lists that are often used for such operations as predictive text, spell checking, and word completion are based on general linguistic data that might not accurately reflect actual text usage patterns of particular users. Systems and methods of building and using a custom word list for use in text operations on an electronic device are provided. A collection of text items associated with a user of the electronic device is scanned to identify words in the text items. A weighting is then assigned to each identified word, and the words and corresponding weightings are stored. |
| US09020933B2 |
Identifying inadequate search content
Systems and methods for identifying inadequate search content are provided. Inadequate search content, for example, can be identified based on statistics associated with the search queries related to the content. |
| US09020926B1 |
Refining search queries
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer program products, for refining search queries. In one implementation, a method includes obtaining a submitted search query, and in response to obtaining the search query: obtaining search results responsive to the search query; selecting a document from a group of documents identified by the search results; generating from a subset of one or more entities associated with the document one or more candidates for refined search queries, including: identifying one or more terms in the search query, where the one or more terms occur in the search query in a particular order relative to each other, and combining the one or more terms with the entity to generate a candidate, where the one or more terms occur in the particular order relative to each other; and identifying one or more of the candidates as being refined search queries for providing with the search results. |
| US09020923B2 |
Systems and methods to facilitate media search
Graphical user interfaces for searching music. A computer provides a window of a first webpage providing a user interface to search music, comprising search tools including filter tools and a keyword search tool. In response to a user search request for music via the filter tools and/or the keyword search tool, the computer provides, within the window, music search results. When a search result is selected by the user, the selected search result expands within the window. The expanded search result includes one or more of: a grab button, a download button, a share button, a license button, an audio player showing an audio waveform of the selected music search result, a description of the selected music search result, artwork associated with the search result, and an explore-more button, that when selected provides additional music related to the selected music based on acoustic similarity. |
| US09020915B2 |
Techniques for administering commingled content items
Techniques for assisting owners to remotely administer their digital content items stored at non-owners' personal computing devices. The techniques involve identifying owned content items from among content items stored in a synchronization replica that is synchronized with synchronization replicas at the non-owners' personal computing devices. The techniques further involve allowing owners to remotely perform certain administrative actions on owned content items. For example, in response to a command initiated at an owner's personal computing device, a network signal or signals can be sent to a synchronization agent installed on the non-owners' personal computing devices to automatically remove all owned content items from the synchronization replicas at the non-owners' personal computing devices. For example, the generation and sending of such signal can be performed by an online content item storage and synchronization service that synchronizes a server-stored synchronization replica with the synchronization replicas at the non-owners' personal computing devices. |
| US09020914B2 |
Automatic song selection
A method for automatically selecting a plurality of media for rendering on an electronic device includes identifying at least first and second characteristics of media to be selected, wherein the first and second characteristics are different from one another. Further, an initial media corresponding to the first characteristic and an end media corresponding to the second characteristic are selected. Then, at least one intermediate media is selected based on a trend from the first characteristic to the second characteristic. |
| US09020912B1 |
Methods for accessing data in a compressed file system and devices thereof
A method, computer readable medium, and network traffic management apparatus that accesses data in a compressed file system includes obtaining an original write request from a client computing device including at least object data. The object data is compressed into a plurality of compressed blocks. A mapping of each compressed block to a portion of the object data compressed therein is generated, wherein the portion of the object data compressed therein is represented in the mapping by a unique object identifier, a start offset, and a length. The compressed blocks and the mapping are stored in at least one data storage device. At least one data access request for at least a portion of the object data is serviced based on the mapping. |
| US09020910B2 |
Storing tables in a database system
A method for processing data contained in tables in a relational database includes joining a first table and a second table into a joined table determining metadata for at least one column of a table of the following tables: the first table, the second table, and the joined table. The metadata is used for processing data in the at least one column of the table, and for processing data in at least one column of at least one other table of the following tables: the first table, the second table, and the joined table. |
| US09020909B2 |
Active file Instant Cloning
Techniques and mechanisms are provided to instantly clone active files including active optimized files. When a new instance of an active file is created, a new stub is generated in the user namespace and a block map file is cloned. The block map file includes the same offsets and location pointers that existed in the original block map file. No user file data needs to be copied. If the cloned file is later modified, the behavior can be same as what happens when a de-duplicated file is modified. |
| US09020907B2 |
Method and system for ranking affinity degree among functional blocks
A methodology for assisting a user in a combination of functional blocks by defining a value representative of an affinity degree among the functional blocks. Such affinity degree is influenced by available historic data derived by previous uses of the functional blocks which had been recorded into a repository. |
| US09020893B2 |
Asynchronous namespace maintenance
Asynchronous namespace maintenance in a distributed replicated data storage system is disclosed. An access device/program serving as a front end to the distributed replicated data storage system updates a batch of updated meta data about stored data items when data items are stored in the distributed replicated data storage system. When the elapsed time since the last batch of data item meta data was stored exceeds a first threshold value or the current batch size exceeds a second threshold value, the access device/program stores the current batch of updated meta data as an object in the distributed replicated data storage system, receiving a batch object identifier for the stored batch of updated meta data, and distributes the batch object identifier to other access devices and/or access programs which retrieve the batch of updated meta data and update their namespaces. |
| US09020892B2 |
Efficient metadata storage
One or more techniques and/or systems are disclosed for efficiently storing metadata of partitioned data (e.g., directed to a specific individual/user). A first subset of data is identified from the set of partitioned data. The first subset of data comprises data that has a high frequency of access, and may be identified, at least in part, by frequency of access metadata that is associated with the data in the set. Metadata, such as discovery information, permissions, version info, etc., that is associated with the data in the first subset can be stored in low latency (e.g., fast) storage, proving more efficient access. Metadata associated with data from the set of partitioned data that is not in the first subset (e.g., that is not accessed frequently) can be stored in higher latency (e.g., slower, less expensive) storage. |
| US09020888B1 |
Data replicating systems and data replication methods
Methods and systems for synchronizing data may enable a computer to synchronize data by connecting to a peer computer via a network connection. The computer may receive a remote table from the peer computer, wherein the remote table comprises an object comprising a vector. The computer may determine whether the object is present in a local table. When the object is present in the local table, the computer may determine whether the vector in the remote table and the vector in the local table match. When the vectors do not match, the computer may determine whether a record of a change to the object is present in a local transaction log. The computer may receive data from the peer computer indicating whether a record of a change to the object is present in a remote transaction log when the vectors do not match. The computer may replace the vector in the local table with the vector in the remote table and record a change to the object in the local transaction log when the record of the change to the object in the local transaction log is less recent than the record of the change to the object in the remote transaction log. |
| US09020879B2 |
Intelligent data agent for a knowledge management system
A system includes a memory operable to store one or more classification rules. The system also includes a processor communicatively coupled to the memory. The processor is operable to retrieve one or more data elements from a data source. The processor is further operable to identify a structured data element among the one or more data elements. The processor is further operable to parse the structured data element using one or more filter processes to produce a plurality of tokens. The processor is further operable to classify the plurality of tokens based at least in part on the one or more classification rules and an ontology, which includes a plurality of concepts and a plurality of relationships between the concepts. The processor is further operable to generate a knowledge assertion, which includes the plurality of classified tokens and one or more relationships between the classified tokens. |