Document Document Title
US09114380B2 Conditioning of double metal cyanide catalysts
The invention relates to a method for conditioning double metal catalysts which are used in the production of polyether polyols. The conditioning enhances the performance of the catalyst, so that lower concentrations of the DMC catalyst can be used in polyether polyol production.
US09114379B2 Niobium nitride and method for producing same, niobium nitride-containing film and method for producing same, semiconductor, semiconductor device, photocatalyst, hydrogen generation device, and energy system
The present invention is a niobium nitride which has a composition represented by the composition formula Nb3N5 and in which a constituent element Nb has a valence of substantially +5. The method for producing the niobium nitride of the present invention includes the step of nitriding an organic niobium compound by reacting the organic niobium compound with a nitrogen compound gas.
US09114366B2 Disposable tangential flow filtration device holder
Tangential flow filtration device is provided wherein liners are provided between the filtration element and the top and bottom holders or manifolds. The liners incorporate the flow channels and inlet and outlet ports that were previously present in the manifolds. The liners are made of an inexpensive material and therefore are disposable after a single use, making it more cost effective to dispose of them than to clean the conventional manifolds. In addition, the liners can be pre-sterilized.
US09114363B2 Aftertreatment system for simultaneous emissions control in stationary rich burn engines
A catalyst system may include a three-way catalyst that may receive exhaust gases from an engine and convert the exhaust gases to first converted exhaust gases. An ammonia slip catalyst may receive the first converted exhaust gases and convert the first converted exhaust gases to second converted exhaust gases. A hydrocarbon oxidation catalyst may receive the second converted exhaust gases and convert the second converted exhaust gases to third converted exhaust gases.
US09114362B2 Treatment of cold start engine exhaust
The present invention relates to a process for reducing cold start emissions in an exhaust gas stream by contacting the exhaust stream with a combination of molecular sieves comprising (1) a small pore crystalline molecular sieve or mixture of molecular sieves having pores no larger than 8 membered rings selected from the group consisting of SSZ-13, SSZ-16, SSZ-36, SSZ-39, SSZ-50, SSZ-52 and SSZ-73 and (2) a medium-large pore crystalline molecular sieve having pores at least as large as 10 membered rings selected from the group consisting of SSZ-26, SSZ-33, SSZ-64, zeolite Beta, CIT-1, CIT-6 and ITQ-4.
US09114359B2 Method for producing sorbents for CO2 capture under high temperatures
A method of producing a CO2 adsorbent and CO2 adsorbents. The method including the steps of: (a) producing a mixture of at least one calcium salt and at least one metal support cation in at least one solvent; (b) drying the mixture to produce a solid containing a calcium metal salt; and (c) calcining the dried solid to produce a sorbent of calcium oxide dispersed in a porous metal support.
US09114358B2 Acid-impregnated activated carbon and methods of forming and using the same
An acid-impregnated activated carbon matrix is formed from a carbonaceous material by the addition of a mineral acid, and may be used to chemisorb ammonia from a gas stream. The ammonia reacts with the acid to form a fertilizer salt. The spent matrix may be used as a fertilizer, or the fertilizer salt may be elutriated from the matrix.
US09114353B2 Dehumidifier and breather configured for operation during regeneration
A dehydrator for dehydrating air supplied to a power related or mechanical device includes a first container configured to hold a desiccant, a first heater arranged with the first container configured to heat the desiccant in the first container, a second container configured to hold a desiccant, and a second heater arranged with the second container configured to heat the desiccant in the second container. The dehydrator further includes a conduit configured to selectively connect one of the first container and the second container to the power related or mechanical device and a controller configured to selectively operate one of the first heater and the second heater.
US09114352B2 Staged membrane process for high pressure hydrogen production
A hydrogen purification process is provided. This process includes separating hydrogen from a hydrogen containing stream in at least two sequential palladium membrane purification zones, wherein each purification zone has a permeate side, wherein the permeate side pressure of purification zones are not the same.
US09114350B2 Apparatus and methods for regeneration of precipitating solvent
A regenerator that can handle rich loaded chemical solvent containing precipitated absorption reaction products is disclosed. The invention is particularly suitable for separating CO2 from large gas streams that are typical of power plant processes. The internally circulating liquid stream in the regenerator (ICLS regenerator) rapidly heats-up the in-coming rich solvent stream in a downcomer standpipe as well as decreases the overall concentration of CO2 in the mixed stream. Both these actions lead to dissolution of precipitates. Any remaining precipitate further dissolves as heat is transferred to the mixed solution with an inverted bayonet tube heat exchanger in the riser portion of the regenerator. The evolving CO2 bubbles in the riser portion of the regenerator lead to substantial gas hold-up and the large density difference between the solutions in the downcomer standpipe and riser portions promotes internal circulation of the liquid stream in the regenerator. As minor amounts of solvent components present in the exit gas stream are condensed and returned back to the regenerator, pure CO2 gas stream exits the disclosed regenerator and condenser system.
US09114345B2 Low power water filter monitoring system
Low power water filter monitoring systems and methods of operation thereof are provided. An example water filter includes a water flow signal receiver configured to receive a water flow signal from a refrigeration appliance. The refrigeration appliance provides the water flow signal whenever water is flowing through the water filter. The water filter can monitor its lifespan based on a total amount of time the water flow signal has been received. Another example water filter includes an ambient light sensor and one or more water filter status indicators. The one or more water filter status indicators are only operated when the ambient light sensor is receiving ambient light.
US09114341B2 Holding frame assembly and flexible retainers for same
A flexible filter retainer and a holding frame assembly having a flexible retainer are provided. In one embodiment, the flexible filter retainer for the holding frame comprises a flat body extending from a first end to a second end. The body comprises a bowed shaped retaining portion disposed at the first end and comprises a first strip and a top face. The body also comprises a fixed portion disposed at the second end and comprises a second strip. The first and second strips are linearly aligned and laterally offset from the top face. In another embodiment, a filter holding frame assembly comprises a holding frame and flexible filter retainers coupled to the holding frame. Each retainer comprises a flat body extending from a first end to a second end. The body comprises a retaining portion disposed at the first end and a fixed portion disposed at the second end.
US09114339B2 Formed filter element
A filter medium for use in filtering a mobile fluid made from at least a bicomponent fiber. Other fibers, particles, or other materials can also be entrained in the filter medium. The filter medium has a substantial thickness compared to filters of the prior art. The fiber length and diameter dimensions are selected to obtain desired filter characteristics including thickness, basis weight, pore size, filtration efficiency, pressure drop, burst strength, and manufacturing efficiency. Further, a multilayer filter medium can be provided with ease. Each layer can have a different composition, pore size, basis weight, and so forth, thus providing the ability to build multiple functionality into the filter media of the invention.
US09114333B2 Method for producing antifoam compositions
Effective and long lasting defoamer compositions are prepared by admixing an organopolysiloxanes, a hydrophilic silica, a hydrophobic silica, optionally an organopolysiloxanes resin, and optionally a water insoluble inorganic compound, at a temperature of 50° C. to 250° C. until the viscosity of the composition has decreased to at least half its original viscosity prior to heating.
US09114332B1 Multiphase flow measurement apparatus utilizing phase separation
An apparatus for separating and measuring fluid streams having oil, water, and gas phases includes a first generally vertical fluid separation chamber, a second generally vertical fluid separation chamber, an oil outlet line, a water outlet line, and a gas outlet line. The first separation chamber includes a first outlet at the top end for the gas outlet line. A second outlet is at the bottom end of the first fluid separation chamber for discharging the oil and water phases. The second separation chamber includes an inlet for receiving the oil phase and the water phase from the first chamber. The oil outlet line directs the oil phase away from the second chamber. The water outlet line directs the water phase away from the second chamber. The gas outlet line directs the gas away from the first chamber. Flow meters measure water, gas, and oil flow.
US09114329B2 Semi-continuous deodoriser comprising a structured packing
The present invention relates to a semi-continuous deodorizer comprising at least one stripping section, which stripping section comprises a feed buffer tray for liquids, a liquid flow regulating means, a liquid distributor, a structured packing, and a receiver tray, wherein the regulating means are regulating the liquid flow from the feed buffer tray to the distributor to distribute the flow of liquid over the structured packing. The liquid is in the packing contacted in counter-current flow to an already once-used stripping agent which is recovered from one of more of the trays installed in the apparatus. The invention relates further to a method for refining fats and oils in a semi-continuous deodorizer, a method for re-using stripping agent in a semi-continuous deodorizer, segregating the recovered distillate into high purity types matching the feed type, and a use of the semi-continuous deodorizer.
US09114328B2 Reactive distillation of a carboxylic acid and a glycol
Disclosed is a process for producing glycolate ester oligomers. The process comprises reacting ethylene glycol and glycolic acid to produce a stream of glycolate ester oligomers and glycolic acid oligomers while simultaneously removing water. The stream of glycolate ester oligomers and glycolic acid oligomers has a low concentration of water and glycolic acid-ends, and thus is useful in a subsequent hydrogenation reaction to produce ethylene glycol.
US09114326B2 Twilight device
A device being in the form of a predetermined animal having a light emitting feature. The animal has at least a head and body. A plurality of light emitting members of varying colors being placed within the body, and a plurality of apertures being formed through the top surface of the body. Each aperture being in the shape of a star, and the placement of the apertures forming the pattern of a predetermined constellation. The light emitting members and apertures being formed in a manner such that light shines through the apertures and projects outwardly when the light emitting members are turned on.
US09114323B2 Toy vehicle track set
In one exemplary embodiment, a toy vehicle track set for use with at least one toy vehicle is provided, the toy vehicle track set having: a first vehicle path through the toy vehicle track set when the toy vehicle track set is in a first configuration; a second vehicle path through the toy vehicle track set when the toy vehicle track set is in a second configuration; and a trigger mechanism for converting the toy vehicle track set from the first configuration into the second configuration, wherein the trigger mechanism is actuated by a toy vehicle travelling along only one of two paths of the first vehicle path.
US09114322B2 Bearing system for observation wheels
Systems and related methods related to structures with large-scale rotatable elements. Some of the present systems comprise: a tower; a tower hub coupled to the tower and having a transverse dimension of at least 50 feet; an observation wheel rotatably coupled to the tower and having a central wheel hub; a plurality of roller bearings disposed between the tower hub and the wheel hub to rotatably support the observation wheel relative to the structure, the roller bearings each having a diameter that is less than one quarter of the transverse dimension of the wheel hub.
US09114318B2 Storage medium storing game program, and game apparatus
An input of an aiming point coordinate indicating a position of an aiming point is accepted from an input device, and it is determined whether or not the aiming point overlaps with an object based on the aiming point coordinate. When it is determined that the aiming point overlaps with the object, a target time for which the object overlapped by the aiming point becomes a target of shooting is set such that the target time is correlated with the object. Further, a shooting operation is accepted, and when the shooting operation is accepted within the target time after the target time is set for the object, shooting at the object for which the target time has been set is performed irrespective of the position of the aiming point, and the target time is reset for the object.
US09114317B1 Patient hospital room system for providing communication, education and entertainment
A patient hospital room system comprises a room computer uniquely associated with a patient in a hospital room. The room computer is connected to a hospital network including a media server. The room computer is configured to download preselected media files from the media server when a patient is assigned to the room. A touch screen display is operably connected to the room computer and the room computer is configured to enable the touch screen display to function as a remote controller for playing the media files. A game console is operably connected to the room computer. A monitor is connected to the game console. An IR transmitter is connected to the room computer for transmitting commands from the touch screen display to the game console. An IR receiver is operably connected to the game console for receiving the commands from the IR transmitter. The room computer and the game console are configured such that the preselected media files are playable from the room computer and displayable on the touch screen or the monitor.
US09114305B2 Full auto splitboard binding
A splitboard binding was developed specifically for boots that have toe and heel landings for full auto binding bails. The binding is also designed to interface with splitboard and solid snowboard bolt patterns. The basic components of the design can be broken up into two pieces, the parts that stay with the splitboard at all times, and the parts that are removable, only to be used when the splitboard is being ridden as a snowboard. The basic design of the mechanism is a twist lock motion with two tabs that secure the binding in place.
US09114300B2 Dual force plate apparatus
An apparatus for analyzing a golf swing or other biomechanical movement includes first and second rectangular force plate mounted within a respective first and second rigid rectangular frame by means of at least one load cell proximate each corner of each rectangular force plate. The second rigid rectangular frame being secured to the first rigid rectangular frame so as to prevent relative lateral movement therebetween, and each of the load cells is operably connected to one or more microprocessor devices for receiving a signal generated by each of the load cells indicative of a force applied thereto.
US09114298B2 Punching bag and suspension system
A punching bag and suspension system is a boxing training device that is oriented horizontally, which permits the punching bag to move vertically, horizontally, diagonally, as well as in 360 degree range of motion. The punching bag has a plastic or metal cylindrical tube running through its core. The tube contains an opening on both sides extending to the outer circumference of the punching bag. These openings allow the tube, and therefore the punching bag, to slide along a suspension member. At the center of the suspension member there is a weight that through gravitational pull, creates an orientation and return point for the punching bag.
US09114296B2 Lower leg sensing device and method of providing data therefrom
A lower leg sensing device including a housing, a leg attachment member and real time data providing member. The housing includes a position angle sensor and a foot contact sensor. The leg attachment member is configured to facilitate attachment of the housing to the lower leg of a user. The real-time data providing member provides data, in real-time, pertaining to the angle of a lower leg of a user relative to a line of gravity upon contact with an outside surface by a leg of a user. A method of providing data to a user that is running or walking is also disclosed.
US09114293B2 Golf club with multi-component construction
A golf club head with multi-component construction. The golf club head includes heel and toe portions that generally provide ground contacting surfaces and a raised central region. A portion of a club head wall is spaced away from a second portion of the club head wall by a less than about 2 cm.
US09114291B2 Interchangeable shaft and club head connection system
A releasable connection system for assembling a shaft and a club head, e.g., a golf club shaft and a golf club head. The connection system provides interchangeability between a shaft and a club head and allows the head to be adjusted with respect to the shaft. The mating structures between the shaft and the club head may be indexed for reproducible placement. In an embodiment, the connection system also includes retaining structures that maintain the connection fastener position when the head and shaft are separated.
US09114289B1 Golf ball mark repair tool
A golf ball mark repair tool having the advantage of promoting the proper technique for repairing a ball mark on a green is provided. The ball mark repair tool generally includes a body member and a plurality of prongs extending from the body member. The prongs have an arcuate shape and project forwardly from the body member to facilitate pushing the edge of the ball mark towards the center. A method of using the ball mark repair tool is also provided.
US09114288B2 Magnetic retrieval system for a golf club
A magnetic retrieval device includes a magnet and a helical thread fixed relative to the magnet. The helical thread is screwed onto a proximal end of a grip of a golf club. The golf club can be used by a golfer to retrieve a laying golf club already on a playing surface without the need for the golfer to bend over or bend down. The helical thread may include a pointed distal end and a cutting slot or a drill distal end. A body may surround the magnet, where the body includes a base and a top. The top may include an elastomeric material such as rubber. A metallic ball marker may be magnetically attached to the body.
US09114286B2 Basketball having grooved seams
A basketball including a carcass, cover panels, and cover strips. The carcass has an outer surface defining a first set of channels and cover panels regions between the first set of channels. The panels are respectively positioned over the panel regions and are spaced apart from each other. The strips are positioned over the channels. The strips have inner and outer surfaces extending between first and second sidewalls. The strips have a thickness that is measured radially from a centerpoint from the inner to the outer surface, and a width that is measured from the first to the second sidewall. At least one groove is formed into the outer surface. The groove has a width that extends between 20 to 70 percent of the width of the strip and has a maximum depth from the outer surface that is at least 50 percent of the maximum thickness of the strip.
US09114284B2 Streamer ball
The invention relates to a streamer ball 10 for use in tennis-type bat and bouncing ball games played with bats having rigid, untensioned ball-striking surfaces and comprises an impact body 12, a tail 14 and a spacer stem 16. The impact body comprises a hemispherical front compression body part 24 including a resiliently compressible frontal impact zone; and a hemispherical rear ballast body part 26. The spacer stem includes a stem formation 17, an anchor formation 28 embedded in the rear ballast body part 26 and an attachment formation 32 for the tail comprising elongate streamers which extend rearwardly from the spacer stem in flight. The rear ballast body part has a greater density than that of the front compression body part and the combined mass of the rear ballast body part and the spacer stem provides ballast rearwardly of the front compression body part providing for adequate compression of the frontal impact zone upon impact.
US09114282B2 Game ball or other article of sports equipment printed with visible light-curable ink and method
Sports equipment, particularly game balls, are printed with an ink cured with light in the visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum. The ink uses a photoinitiator that absorbs light in both the ultraviolet region and in a range of from about 400 nm to about 690 nm in the visible light region, a Type I photoinitiator compound absorbing in only the visible region, or a Type II photoinitiator compound either containing an abstractable hydrogen or used with a free radical-curable material comprising an abstractable hydrogen.
US09114275B2 Exercise assemblies having crank members with limited rotation
An exercise assembly has a frame, a pair of elongated foot pedal members, a pair of elongated coupler arms, a pair of crank members, a pair of elongated rocker arms, and a front cross-shaft. The pair of foot pedal members are each movable along user-defined paths of different dimensions. Each crank member is rotatable in a circular path and is freely rotatable along the circular path in a first direction and restrained from rotation along the circular path in a second, opposite direction.
US09114273B2 Exercise device
An exercise apparatus for the performance of tricep dip exercise and the like. The apparatus comprises first and second elongate members, which are adapted to be brought into fixed positional arrangement relative to each other. The first upper end of each member is adapted to be brought into engagement with a substantially horizontal member of a pull up or chin up bar, while the second, lower end of each tubular member is adapted to form, or is conjoined to, a hand grips means. The hand grip means is provided in a direction which is substantially perpendicular to the main body of the first and second member. A third member is conjoined to the first and second members about their lower ends.
US09114272B2 Portable adjustable multi-purpose exercise device
A new and useful portable adjustable multi-purpose exercise device which is collapsible when not in use, relatively inexpensive, allows for a multitude of exercises to be performed for every major part of the body and focuses on exercises which implement the user's body weight as resistance. The device essentially comprises two triangular support frames and an attached stabilizer bar, which when assembled yields a pyramidal prismatic structure upon which the user performs a variety of exercises. The configuration of the device changes as the user optionally places an exercise grip bar in various receiving grooves. This device is believed to be useful in the home setting, whereby the individual user may obtain a full work-out without the need for larger home gym systems. A device according to the invention is also believed to be favorable for use in large gym environments, hospital therapy rooms, classes and other fitness-related facilities.
US09114269B2 Electronic skipping rope structure and competition system therefor
Disclosed is an electronic skipping rope structure comprising two skipping rope handles (1A, 1B) and a rope (2). The skipping rope handles (1A, 1B) each comprise a fixed handle (10) for being grasped and a rotating body (11) which is movably connected with the fixed handle (10) and is connected with the rope (2). A sensing point (11A, 11B, 11C) is arranged on the rotating body (11) of one skipping rope handle (1A), and at least two detecting points (10A, 10B, 10C) corresponding to the sensing point (11A, 11B, 11C) are arranged on the fixed handle (10) of the skipping rope handle (1A), said fixed handle (1A) having arranged inside it a micro-controller (3) electrically connected with the detecting points (10A, 10B, 10C). The electronic skipping rope structure increases the accuracy of counting and features a simple structure and low costs. Also provided is an electronic skipping rope competition system.
US09114267B2 Concealed residential sprinkler
A combined trigger and concealing device for an automatic fire protection sprinkler includes a first plate attached to a second plate by a heat fusible material. Each plate is formed with an aperture which receives an actuator depending from the bottom of the sprinkler. The trigger device depends a preselected distance from the bottom of the sprinkler body and includes a cover which has an outer dimension which conceals the internal components of the sprinkler from view. The cover includes openings and is dimensioned and positioned to permit heat energy to be received by the inner and outer surface of the trigger device. Conduction of heat energy from both the inner and outer surface of the trigger device permits the heat fusible material to be expeditiously raised to the preselected separation temperature. This construction minimizes response time of the sprinkler while maintaining a highly aesthetic appearance.
US09114266B2 Composition for cosmetics having UV shielding effect and sebum solidifying ability, and cosmetic preparations
A composition for cosmetics is provided, which has a UV shielding effect and which can produce a cosmetic having good dispersibility, an excellent UV shielding effect and excellent use feeling, cosmetic effect, long-lasting cosmetic performance. The cosmetic obtained by using the same is provided. The composition for cosmetics includes (A) microparticulate titanium dioxide, (B) one kind or two or more kinds of magnesium hydroxide and calcium hydroxide. The composition for cosmetics preferably contains further (C) a clay mineral. The compounding weight ratio among (A): (B): (C) is preferably 20 to 60: 3 to 40: 0 to 77. In addition, the composition for cosmetics is preferably one in which a mixed powder of (A), (B) and (C) is lipophilically treated.
US09114265B2 Method and apparatus for enabling data communication between an implantable medical device and a patient management system
Embodiments of the invention provide methods, systems, and devices for enabling data communication between an IMD and a host computer. In one embodiment, a device is provided that comprises a frequency and protocol agile transceiver capable of communicating with an IMD via a first communications link and with a host computer via a second wireless communications link, wherein the first wireless communication link is configured for substantially shorter communication range than the second wireless communication link. An apparatus is provided according to another embodiment of the invention that comprises an interface between an IMD and a communications device, such as a wireless telephone or a two-way wireless pager. The interface can communicate directly with the IMD to retrieve clinical data stored in the IMD and can utilize the communications device to transmit the clinical data to a host computer.
US09114264B2 Implantable stimulation devices, and methods and systems for use therewith, that automatically adjust stimulation parameters to improve preload in an HF patient
Methods, systems and devices described herein can be used for automatically adjusting one or more cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) pacing parameters (and more generally stimulation parameters), to achieve a long term reduction in left ventricular (LV) diastolic pressure (and more generally, preload) of a heart failure (HF) patient. A reduction in LV diastolic pressure is indicative of a reduction in preload (the force of blood the fills the left ventricle), which is typically indicative of an improvement in a patient's HF condition. In accordance with certain embodiments, when a set of stimulation parameters is tested, the set is tested for a period that is sufficiently long enough to allow the patient's compensatory mechanisms to react to the set of stimulation parameters and achieve a substantially steady-state LV diastolic pressure corresponding to the using the set of stimulation parameters. Such techniques are believed to provide better results than achieved using acute hemodynamic optimization techniques.
US09114263B2 Method, implantable medical device, and system for determining the condition of a heart valve
An implantable medical device has an impedance processor for determining atrial impedance data reflective of the cardiogenic impedance of an atrium of a heart during diastole and/or systole of heart cycle. Ventricular impedance data reflective of the cardiogenic impedance of a ventricle during diastole and/or systole are also determined. The determined impedance data are processed by a representation processor for estimating a diastolic and/or a systolic atrial impedance representation and a diastolic and/or a systolic ventricular impedance representation. A condition processor determines the presence of any heart valve malfunction, such as valve regurgitation and/or stenosis, of at least one heart valve based on the estimated atrial and ventricular impedance representations.
US09114259B2 Recording and retrieval of sound data in a hearing prosthesis
A hearing prosthesis for delivering stimuli to a hearing-impaired recipient is disclosed, the hearing prosthesis comprising: a sound transducer for converting received sound signals into electric audio signals; a sound processor for converting said electric audio signals into stimuli signals; a stimulator for delivering said stimuli to the recipient; a memory for storing data representative of sound signals; and a controller configured to cause selected sound data to be retrieved from said memory and processed by said sound processor.
US09114258B2 Electrokinetic nerve stimulator
A device and method for stimulating nerves. In one application, the approaches treat nausea and vomiting caused by a reaction to general anesthesia. A bi-modal approach involving acustimulation and medicants is contemplated for specific conditions.
US09114256B2 Electrostimulation method and system for the treatment of sleep apnea
Electric stimulation method and system for treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) Syndrome using an external actuator on the pharyngeal-laryngeal muscles.Using this actuator, the muscles involved receive an electric stimulus, with the aim of widening the muscular opening and attaining sufficient air flow to prevent the lack of air. Said stimulus only acts in the event of an apnea episode being detected, by means of analyzing sound patterns of the upper airways. Both detection and treatment arc self-regulatory, in order to adapt to the patient's morphology and the evolution of the condition or problem.
US09114254B2 Electromagnetically-countered display systems and methods
The present invention relates to an electromagnetically-countered display system including at least one wave source and at least one counter unit, where such a wave source irradiates harmful electromagnetic waves and the counter unit emits counter electromagnetic waves for countering the harmful waves therewith. More particularly, the present invention relates to various counter units for the electromagnetically-countered display system and to various mechanisms to counter the harmful waves with the counter units, e.g., by matching configurations of the counter units with those of the wave sources, by matching wavefronts of the harmful waves with those the counter waves, and so on. The present invention also relates to various methods of countering the harmful waves with such counter waves by source and/or wave matchings, various methods of providing the counter units for emitting the counter waves defining desired wave characteristics, and the like. The present invention further relates to various processes for providing the electromagnetically-countered display systems and their counter units. The present invention further relates to various electric and magnetic shields employed either alone or in conjunction with the counter units for minimizing irradiation of the harmful waves from the shaving system.
US09114253B2 System for delivering conformal radiation therapy while simultaneously imaging soft tissue
Devices and processes for performing magnetic resonance imaging of the anatomy of a patient during radiation therapy to measure and control the radiation dose delivered to the patient.
US09114249B2 Assembly for pain suppressing electrical stimulation of a patient's nerve
An assembly for pain suppressing electrical stimulation of a patient's nerve, the assembly including lateral, medial, and oppositely lateral series of contact plates; a lateral panel, a medial panel and an oppositely lateral panel, the electrical contact plates being fixedly attached to the panels; living hinges pivotally attaching the lateral and oppositely lateral panels to the medial panel; proximally extending wires electrically communicating with the contact plates; a proximally extending insulator attached to the medial panel, the insulator having a hollow bore and the wires being embedded within the insulator; a proximally opening traction socket fixedly attached to the medial panel; and a semi-rigid stay which is extendable through the hollow bore, the semi-rigid stay being engageable with the proximally opening traction socket.
US09114248B2 Electrode for finding points of low impedance and applying electrical stimulation thereto
An electrode constituted of: a fixture arranged for connection to a frame; and a probe exhibiting a closed face and a generally conically shaped protrusion extending longitudinally from the closed face towards an apex, the probe in communication with the fixture, wherein the fixture is arranged to allow the probe to travel in a generally unrestricted manner exclusively along a longitudinal axis of the probe, wherein the generally conically shaped protrusion is arranged such that when the closed face is in contact with a skin surface, the generally conically shaped protrusion penetrates an outer layer of the skin surface responsive to the weight of the probe and is in electrical contact with an inner portion of the penetrated skin surface, and wherein a portion of the closed face, surrounding the generally conically shaped protrusion, is arranged to be in electrical contact with the outer skin layer.
US09114246B2 Spinal nerve stimulation rings for rehabilitation of patients with spinal trauma and stroke
A device circles the spinal segmental nerves like a ring and causes stimulation of the nerves. The present invention offers magnetic as well as electric stimulation properties in order to balance the two modes.
US09114244B2 Needleless valve system fluid control
A needleless valve system includes a cannula comprising a cannula tip; a valve comprising a valve tip, wherein the valve is disposed around the cannula; and a housing comprising a housing tip, wherein the cannula tip, the valve tip, and the housing tip comprise a flat surface when the needleless valve system is in a sealed position.
US09114243B2 Manual valve actuator for medical fluid delivery set
A manual valve actuator for a medical fluid delivery set is disclosed. The manual valve actuator comprises a holder adapted to removably receive a valve mechanism of the medical fluid delivery set, a valve driver, and a handle for rotating the valve driver and thereby the valve rotor when the valve mechanism is received in the holder. Also disclosed is a method for rinsing a medical fluid delivery set utilizing the manual valve actuator.
US09114241B2 Systems and methods for providing a flushable catheter assembly
A flushable catheter assembly having features to enable selective activation of fluid flow through the catheter assembly is disclosed herein. A septum is placed within the catheter adapter of the catheter assembly and includes a pathway that is closed prior to being biased open via a septum activator also positioned within the catheter adapter. A plurality of air vent channels is interposed between the septum and the inner surface of the catheter adapter to permit “flashback” of blood during insertion of the catheter into a patient. The septum activator is advanced through the pathway of the septum as a coupler is attached to a proximal opening of the catheter adapter.
US09114237B2 Systems and methods for delivering fluid to a wound therapy dressing
Provided are systems and methods for delivery of fluid to a wound therapy dressing. In exemplary embodiments, a pressure source provides negative pressure to a wound dressing and positive pressure to an actuator that expels fluid from a fluid reservoir.
US09114235B2 Therapeutic agent delivery system and method for localized application of therapeutic substances to a biological lumen
The invention provides a system and method for localized application of therapeutic substances within a biological lumen and to the wall of the lumen. In various embodiments, a biodegradable tubular prosthesis comprising a plurality of pores is deployed within a biological lumen. Subsequent to, or in conjunction with, the deployment of the prosthesis, a drug-eluting balloon comprising at least one therapeutic agent is expanded within the lumen of the tubular prosthesis, thereby releasing the agent(s) from the balloon and delivering them to the prosthesis pores. The at least one therapeutic agent is then allowed to diffuse through the pores to the lumen wall.
US09114234B2 Low profile introducer apparatus
An introducer apparatus includes an outer sleeve and an inner cannula received within the lumen of the outer sleeve. The outer sleeve has a profile such that at least a portion of the distal end of the outer sleeve tapers in the distal direction at an angle not exceeding about 2° relative to a longitudinal axis of the apparatus. The distal open end of the outer sleeve has a wall thickness not exceeding about 0.003 inch, and is sized such that a first wire guide is receivable therethrough. The inner cannula includes a tapered distal end portion. The inner cannula distal open end is sized such that a second wire guide is receivable therethrough, and the first wire guide is not receivable therethrough. The tapered distal portion of the inner cannula extends distal to the distal open end of the outer sleeve, such that a generally smooth diametrical transition is provided between the outer sleeve tapered portion and the open distal end of the inner cannula.
US09114233B2 Method and apparatus for managing stress
A stress management device is formed in an integrated design that enables pulse measurement, display of results and a power supply gathered into a small finger clip device. The stress management device includes a non-invasive infrared sensor that identifies and measures pulse rate variability and utilizes that information to calculate the power spectrum distribution and create a curve of the results multiple times per second. The device incorporates a display screen on which a graphic image of a pair of lungs filling and emptying to encourage the user into a predetermined breathing pattern known to reduce stress levels during a training period. After the completion of the training period, the device presents a score reflecting the percentage of times the user achieved high, medium and low relaxation states, and a pie chart reflecting the distribution of the states of relaxation calculated during the training period.
US09114232B2 Catheter for manual and remote manipulation
An elongate medical device may overcome be configured both for manual manipulation by a physician and for automatic manipulation by a remote catheter guidance system. Such an elongate medical device comprises a shaft having a proximal portion and a distal portion, a pull wire disposed in the shaft and affixed to the distal portion of the shaft, and a handle coupled with the proximal portion of the catheter shaft. The handle comprises a first mechanism configured for manual actuation of the pull wire so as to deflect the distal portion of the shaft, a second mechanism configured for remote actuation of the pull wire so as to deflect the distal portion of the shaft, and a mechanical interface configured to provide a remote catheter guidance system with a functional connection to the second mechanism.
US09114230B2 Valve system and method with multi-directional pumping
An implantable valve system and method of using same, including a housing with a resilient membrane defining a reservoir in fluid communication with at least two ports, and at least a first set of opposing sealing features disposed on upper and lower surfaces within the housing. The membrane is capable of being depressed by a human finger to bring the sealing features together to substantially restrict fluid from passing through at least one of one of the ports, and is capable of being depressed additionally by a rolling motion of the finger to drive fluid through the other of the ports.
US09114228B2 Dilator apparatus
A cystotomy apparatus includes a sound from which an advancement device having a cutting tip creates a surgical pathway from the bladder through abdominal tissue to the external abdomen along a predetermined path. The cutting tip is captured and removed from the advancement device in a capture cup located in the predetermined path by an alignment structure. The cutting tip is removed from the advancement device while within the capture cup, to allow a dilator, cannula or catheter to be drawn through the surgical pathway into the bladder.
US09114227B2 Shielding dilator for use with a catheter
A dilator system for insertion of a catheter or other elongate device into a body of a patient includes a catheter having a lumen that initially defines a first inner diameter. The catheter includes a swellable material that swells after insertion into the body. A dilator includes an elongate body that is initially disposed in the catheter lumen and a tapered head extending from a distal end of the catheter lumen. The dilator head defines an outer diameter that is larger than the first inner diameter of the catheter lumen. After insertion of the dilator head and a distal portion of the catheter into the body, the catheter swells such that the lumen defines a second inner diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the dilator head. This enables the dilator to be proximally removed from the body via the catheter lumen defining the second diameter.
US09114223B2 Strapping force indicator accessory
An apparatus for indicating a strapping force applied by a headgear of a patient interface device. The apparatus includes a first portion structured to be selectively connectable to a connecting element of a mask of the patient interface device, a second portion structured to be selectively connectable to a strap of the headgear, and a force gauging mechanism coupled to the first portion and the second portion. The force gauging mechanism is structured to gauge and indicate a force being applied by the headgear in response to the second strap portion being pulled by the strap of the headgear.
US09114221B2 Counter
A counter containing: a first ring member having first indicia and a second ring member having second indicia, each of the first and second ring members being rotatable in increments about a common axis, one or both of the first and second indicia indicating a count; a drive mechanism for rotating the first ring member; and a coupling mechanism for releasably coupling the first ring member to the second ring member, to allow the first and second ring members to rotate cooperatively when coupled and to allow independent rotating of the first ring member when not coupled; wherein the coupling mechanism contains first and second engagement structures, the first engagement structures being movable radially outwardly and radially inwardly relative to the axis.
US09114220B2 Systems and methods for triggering and cycling a ventilator based on reconstructed patient effort signal
Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide systems, methods and devices for respiratory support. As one example, a method for respiratory support is described that includes providing a measured pressure, and calculating a net flow based on at least one measured inlet flow and measured outlet flow. A relationship between a first value related to the measured pressure, a second value related to the measured net flow and a third value related to patient effort is used to provide a prediction of patient effort. An interim value is updated based at least in part on the prediction of the patient effort, and used to help compute a patient effort. A ventilation cycle is initiated using the computed patient effort.
US09114219B2 Insufflating-exsufflating system
A system (10) and method of insufflating-exsufflating a subject (12) that enables monitoring and/or control over an enhanced set of breathing parameters during insufflation-exsuffiation. The system and/or method may include automatic triggering and/or notification to a caregiver of insufflation-exsuffiation. The insufflation-exsuffiation of the subject may be preceded by a secretion loosing routine that loosens secretions in the airway of the subject without moving the loosened secretions up the airway.
US09114217B2 Pattern recognition system and method for the detection of stuck fluid droplets in a fluid delivery line of an infusion system
An infusion system includes a pump, a fluid delivery line, a sensor, a processor, and a memory. The fluid delivery line is connected to the pump for delivering fluid. The sensor is connected to the fluid delivery line for emitting and receiving signals to detect whether there is air in the fluid delivery line. The processor is in electronic communication with the pump and the sensor. The memory is in electronic communication with the processor. The memory includes programming code for execution by the processor. The programming code is configured to analyze the signals to determine if a stuck fluid droplet is stuck within the fluid delivery line at a location of the sensor.
US09114213B2 Pharmaceutical injection device
The pharmaceutical injection device comprises a syringe mounting portion configured to mount thereon a syringe containing a drug, the syringe including at a front end side thereof an injection needle mounting portion on which an injection needle is mounted and a gasket at a rear end side thereof, a plunger operable to press the gasket in the syringe mounted on the syringe mounting portion toward the injection needle mounting portion, a motor operable to drive the plunger, an encoder operable to detect a rotation amount of the motor, and a controller connected to the encoder and operable to control a driving of the motor. The controller is operable to obtain a motor rotation amount that corresponds to a deformation amount of the gasket deformed by the plunger, and control a rotation of the motor at a time of injection of the drug in accordance with the motor rotation amount.
US09114212B2 Auto-priming injection device
The invention relates to an injection device (1, 100) configured to perform automatic priming upon removal of a protective cap (15, 115) from a cap receiving portion (9, 109) of a housing (2, 102). When mounted on the injection device (1, 100) the cap (15, 115) defines a first position for a drive member (10, 110) relative to the housing (2, 102), which drive member (10, 110) is capable of causing a piston rod (7, 107) to advance a piston (8, 108) in a reservoir (4, 104). Means (13, 120) are provided defining a second position for the drive member (10, 110) relative to the housing (2, 102). During removal of the cap (15, 115) from the cap receiving portion (9, 109) the drive member (10, 110) moves from the first position to the second position under the influence of a spring (11, 111), thereby causing the piston rod (7, 107) to pressurize the reservoir (4, 104).
US09114206B2 Device for infusion of prescription medicines or treatments
An infusion assembly is provided having a first outlet conduit adapted to be in fluid communication with a delivery site of a patient. The assembly further includes at least first and second fluid inlet conduits adapted to be in fluid communication with at least a first and second fluid reservoir, and an infusion switching device, including a housing and an internal valve assembly. The internal valve assembly is adapted for selective manipulation by a patient or caregiver. The valve assembly includes an off-setting, and first infusion setting, for initiating an infusion of a first fluid from a first fluid reservoir to a delivery site, and a second infusion setting for initiating an infusion of a second fluid from a second fluid reservoir to a delivery site.
US09114205B2 Chemical liquid addition system and chemical liquid addition method
The preservation liquid addition system of the present invention enables a chemical liquid to be added to a blood cell component both easily and in a short period of time. The preservation liquid addition system is able to be placed on a centrifugal separator. The preservation liquid addition system has a blood bag, a preservation liquid bag, a mixed liquid bag, a first flow path and a static mixer. A blood component in the blood bag and a preservation liquid in the preservation liquid bag are sent to the static mixer through the first flow path, and a mixed liquid mixed by the static mixer is sent to the mixed liquid bag by centrifugal force of the centrifugal separator.
US09114203B2 Infusion systems configurations
Shielding assemblies for systems that generate and infuse radiopharmaceuticals. The shielding assemblies include a sidewall that defines several compartments and provides a radiation barrier for the compartments and provides a passageway sized to accommodate routing of an eluate line from a radioisotope generator. One compartment is sized to contain the radioisotope generator. A second compartment is sized to hold a portion of an infusion circuit that may be an extension of the eluate line and may include a waste line and a patient line.
US09114200B2 Injectable hydrogel filaments for biomedical uses
Described herein are apparatus, compositions, systems and associated methods to occlude structures and malformations with radiopaque hydrogel filaments with delayed controlled rates of expansion permitting the repositioning of the device once inside the structure or malformation. Further described is a device for implantation in an animal comprising a difunctional, low molecular weight ethylenically unsaturated shapeable macromer; an ethylenically unsaturated monomer; and a radiopaque element, wherein said device contains no support members. Methods of forming such devices are also disclosed.
US09114199B2 Implantable or insertable medical devices containing acrylic copolymer for controlled delivery of therapeutic agent
Implantable or insertable medical devices are described. The medical devices comprise (a) a therapeutic agent and (b) a polymeric release region, which controls the release of the therapeutic agent upon administration to a patient. The polymeric release region further comprises an acrylic copolymer, which comprises (i) a plurality of rubbery acrylic units and (ii) a plurality of hard units. Also described are methods for administering a therapeutic agent to a patient using the above implantable or insertable medical devices as well as methods of making the above devices.
US09114198B2 Biologically beneficial coatings for implantable devices containing fluorinated polymers and methods for fabricating the same
Coatings for an implantable medical device and a method of fabricating the coatings are disclosed. The coatings comprise a fluorinated polymer and a biologically beneficial polymer, an example of which includes poly(ethylene-glycol)-block poly(butylene terephthalate)-block poly(ethylene-glycol). A biologically active agent can be additionally conjugated to the biologically beneficial polymer.
US09114194B2 Immobilized biologically active entities having high biological activity following mechanical manipulation
Described are immobilized biologically active entities that retain significant biological activity following mechanical manipulation of a substrate material to which the entities are immobilized.
US09114189B2 Compositions that reversibly gel and de-gel
A modified or isolated composition comprising a gel. The gel includes a plurality of first polymers, each of said first polymers having first functional groups comprising a first nucleic acid sequence attached as side-chains thereto. The gel includes a plurality of second polymers, each of said second polymers having second functional groups comprising a second nucleic acid sequence attached as side-chains thereto, said first and said second functional groups forming a reversible cross-link between said first and said second polymers, wherein said cross-link comprises a plurality of hydrogen bonds between complementary base portions of said first and said second nucleic acid sequences.
US09114186B2 Sterilization process challenge device
A sterilization process challenge device comprising a solid body comprised of walls which define a space, wherein the space can fully contain a sterilization indicator and a volume of gas of at least 5 cubic centimeters and not more than 1000 cubic centimeters; a flow restrictor associated with the solid body such that any flow of the gas out of the space and any flow of a sterilant into the space is restricted; wherein the sterilization indicator indicates whether or not it has been contacted by the sterilant for a time and at a temperature sufficient to sterilize an article; and wherein the walls of the solid body are impervious to the sterilant and have a thickness of at least 0.3 centimeter, methods of using the device and a kit including the device are disclosed.
US09114185B2 Apparatus for sanitizing medical devices
A machine for cold sanification of medical devices includes a sanification chamber adapted to house at least one medical device to be treated, a first delivery system supplying one or more sanification fluids and having a plurality of hydraulic circuits each having a drawing conduit for the sanification fluids connectable to a respective reservoir and a plurality of delivering conduits connected with the sanification chamber for introducing the pressurized fluids therein, a second delivery system fluidically connecting one or more of the drawing conduits with corresponding inner channels of a device housed into the sanification chamber. The first delivery system includes a central collector interposed between the drawing conduits and the delivering conduits, which receive from the first the fluids and supply to each of the delivering conduits the sanification fluids at substantially the same pressure.
US09114183B2 Portable antimicrobial ultra violet sterilizer
The present invention relates to a sterilization unit consisting of a cubical enclosure which uses a sequenced supply of ozone and ultraviolet radiation in the C band (UVC) wave length to sterilize. In use, an article to be sterilized is positioned atop a glass plate mounted between two sources of UVC radiation sources and ozone is first supplied to the enclosure for a period of 15 seconds to 60 minutes followed by a supply of UVC radiation for a period of 15 seconds to 60 minutes.
US09114182B2 Germicidal systems and apparatuses having hollow tumbling chambers
Systems are provided which include a disinfection apparatus, a hollow chamber comprising an object entry port, and a means for tumbling objects placed inside the chamber. In some cases, the hollow chamber is configured such that a germicide projected from the disinfection apparatus is transmitted into an interior cavity of the chamber. In other cases, the hollow chamber may include an input port configured for coupling the chamber to the disinfection apparatus such that a germicide generated by the disinfection apparatus is transmitted into the hollow chamber via the input port when the chamber is coupled to the disinfection apparatus. In other cases, the disinfection apparatus may be disposed within the hollow chamber and configured to generate a germicide in the form of a plasma, ultraviolet light, a non-aqueous vapor, a non-aqueous liquid or a gas which is molecularly configured to deactivate or kill microorganisms.
US09114180B2 Malodor neutralizing compositions containing acids and alicyclic ketones
This disclosure relates to a malodor neutralizing composition containing (1) a cyclohexanone substituted with C1-C5 branched or unbranched alkyl or an unsaturated alicyclic ketone of formula (I) and (2) an acid selected from the group consisting of citric acid, undecylenic acid, and an acid of the formula (VIII). Formulas (I) and (VIII) are defined in the specification.
US09114179B2 Immunoconjugate formulations
The present invention provides an immunoconjugate formulation that is substantially free of particles, the immunoconjugate formulation comprising: an immunoconjugate and one or more excipients selected from the group consisting of: sucrose, polysorbate 20, polysorbate 80, cyclodextrin, dextrose, glycerol, polyethylene glycol, mannitol, sodium chloride, and an amino acid, wherein the formulation is a buffered aqueous solution having a pH of 4.5 to 7.6. The present invention also provides an immunoconjugate formulation that is substantially free of aggregates, the immunoconjugate formulation comprising: an immunoconjugate and one or more excipients selected from the group consisting of histidine, sucrose, glycine and sodium chloride, wherein the formulation is a buffered aqueous solution having a pH of 4.5 to 7.6. The present invention further provides an immunoconjugate formulation that is substantially free of both particles and aggregates.
US09114174B2 Vaccines with enhanced immune response and methods for their preparation
The present invention is concerned with vaccines and their preparation. An effective long-term immune response, especially in mammals, can be produced using a vaccine comprising an antigen encapsulated in liposomes, a suitable adjuvant and a carrier comprising a continuous phase of a hydrophobic substance. The vaccine is particularly effective in eliciting the production of antibodies that recognize epitopes of native proteins.
US09114173B2 Vault and vault like carrier molecules
A method of using vaults as carrier molecules to deliver one or more than one substance to an organism, or to a specific tissue or to specific cells, or to an environmental medium. A vault-like particle. A method of preventing damage by one or more than one substance to an organism, to a specific tissue, to specific cells, or to an environmental medium, by sequestering the one or more than one substance within a vault-like particle. A method of delivering one or more than one substance or a sensor to an organism, to a specific tissue, to specific cells, or to an environmental medium. According to another embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method of making vault-like particles, and making vault-like particles comprising one or more than one substance, or one or more than one sensor.
US09114160B2 Pyrazine derivatives and uses thereof in renal monitoring
The present invention relates to pyrazine derivatives such as those represented by Formulas I and II below. X1 to X4 of the compounds of Formulas I and II may be characterized as electron withdrawing groups. In contrast, Y1 to Y4 of the compounds of Formulas I and II may be characterized as electron donating groups. Pyrazine derivatives of the present invention may be utilized in assessing renal function. In particular, an effective amount of a pyrazine derivative of the invention may be administered into a body of a patient. The pyrazine derivative that is in the body may be exposed to visible and/or infrared light to cause spectral energy to emanate from the pyrazine derivative. This emanating spectral energy may be detected and utilized to determine renal function of the patient.
US09114158B2 Compounds and methods of use in ablative radiotherapy
Provided herein is the compound RK-33, or a salt, solvate, stereoisomer, or derivative thereof, which is shown to be an inhibitor if the DEAD box helicase DDX3, in mammalian cells. RK-33 is also provided herein for use as a radiation dose sensitizer in a subject suffering from a proliferative disease and undergoing radiation therapy. Methods of treatment of proliferative diseases, such as cancer with a combination of RK-33 and radiotherapy methods such as stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) are also provided.
US09114157B2 Anti-tumor T cell immunity induced by high dose radiation
Cancer treatment is provided, by irradiating an individual with a localized, high single dose or short course of doses at a primary tumor site; collecting T cells from the individual after a period of time sufficient activation of an anti-tumor response; treating the individual with an effective dose of dose of chemotherapy; and reintroducing the T cell population back to the individual.
US09114156B2 Enhanced antimicrobial skin preparation
An antimicrobial skin composition comprised of an antimicrobial agent, an alcohol, one or more pH sensitive viscosity builders, a plasticizer and water. Preferably, the viscosity builders of the present invention are comprised of pH sensitive methacrylic polymers which are alcohol compatible and have pH controlled water solubility. The composition combines the advantages of an antimicrobial agent and an alcohol, and has a viscosity of from 100 cp to 1,000. This viscosity is sufficiently low for purposes of dispensing and applying the preparation, yet sufficiently high to cause the solution to remain in the area of the wound and not flow away or pool under the patient. The preparation further forms a water-resistant film that is difficult to remove during wound irrigation, but can be easily removed upon completion of the procedure. In addition, the preparation is fast drying so as to take advantage of the fast high initial kill properties of alcohol. Finally, with the addition of a plasticizer (such as PEG 400), the film formed by the composition resists flaking in medical procedures requiring substantial skin manipulation.
US09114153B2 Methods of treatment relating to the FMR1 gene
A method of treating a human female to increase embryo survival and embryo quality includes administering an FMR1 enhancer to a human embryo to cause an increase in expression of an FMR1 gene. The FMR1 enhancer increases the expression of FMR1 genes in the human embryo with at least one of two alleles with less than 26 triple CGG repeats.
US09114147B2 System and method for diagnosis and treatment
This invention relates to a low cost rapid response diagnostic system to determine cortisol levels in patients selected as potential candidates for GCR (glucocorticoid receptor) antagonist therapy utilizing a GCR antagonist, such as ORG 34517. The rapid, sensitive, and inexpensive test can be used to determine patients who have non-normal cortisol production or disordered circadian rhythms as a method for selecting subjects for GCR antagonist therapy for whom it is likely to have beneficial and/or therapeutic effects, and can also be used to monitor changes in cortisol levels in response to treatment.
US09114146B2 Natural combination hormone replacement formulations and therapies
Estrogen and progesterone replacement therapies are provided herein. Among others, the following formulations are provided herein: solubilized estradiol without progesterone; micronized progesterone without estradiol; micronized progesterone with partially solubilized progesterone; solubilized estradiol with micronized progesterone; solubilized estradiol with micronized progesterone in combination with partially solubilized progesterone; and solubilized estradiol with solubilized progesterone.
US09114145B2 Natural combination hormone replacement formulations and therapies
Estrogen and progesterone replacement therapies are provided herein. Among others, the following formulations are provided herein: solubilized estradiol without progesterone; micronized progesterone without estradiol; micronized progesterone with partially solubilized progesterone; solubilized estradiol with micronized progesterone; solubilized estradiol with micronized progesterone in combination with partially solubilized progesterone; and solubilized estradiol with solubilized progesterone.
US09114139B2 Dose escalation enzyme replacement therapy for treating acid sphingomyelinase deficiency
The invention relates to dose escalation enzyme replacement therapy using acid sphingomyelinase (ASM) for the treatment of human subjects having acid sphingomyelinase deficiency (ASMD), and, in particular, patients with non-neurological manifestations of Niemann-Pick Disease (NPD), and in certain embodiments, NPD type B.
US09114134B2 Multicomponent and biocompatible nanocomposite materials, methods of synthesizing same and applications of same
One aspect of the present invention relates to a method of synthesizing a multicomponent and biocompatible nanocomposite material, which includes: synthesizing a gold/hydroxyapatite (Au/HA) catalyst; distributing the Au/HA catalyst into a thin film; and heating the thin film in a reactor with a carbon source gas to perform radio frequency chemical vapor deposition (RF-CVD) to form the nanocomposite material, where the nanocomposite material includes a graphene structure and Au/HA nanoparticles formed by the Au/HA catalyst and distributed within the graphene structure. In another aspect, a multicomponent and biocompatible nanocomposite material includes: a graphene structure formed with a plurality of graphene layers and Au/HA nanoparticles distributed within the graphene structure. The nanocomposite material is formed by heating an Au/HA catalyst thin film with a carbon source gas to perform radio frequency chemical vapor deposition (RF-CVD).
US09114133B2 Method of improving diastolic dysfunction
A method of treating, preventing, reversing, or ameliorating diastolic dysfunction includes reducing S-glutathionylated myosin binding protein-C (MyBP-C) level by administering to a host in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4).
US09114131B2 Antibody targeting osteoclast-related protein Siglec-15
An isolated antibody capable of binding Siglec-15 which inhibits osteoclast formation and/or osteoclastic bone resorption, or a functional fragment thereof. The heavy chain of the antibody comprises a CDRH1 comprising a sequence having at least 80% sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 106, a CDRH2 comprising a sequence having at least 80% sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 107, and a CDRH3 comprising a sequence having at least 80% sequence identity to one of SEQ ID NOS: 35, 45, 55, 65 or 80. The light chain of the antibody comprises a CDRL1 comprising a sequence having at least 80% sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 73 or 83, a CDRL2 comprising a sequence having at least 80% sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 108, and a CDRL3 comprising a sequence having at least 80% sequence identity to one of SEQ ID NOS: 40, 50, 60, 70, 90, 100 or 109.
US09114128B2 Tropoelastins and uses thereof
The present invention relates to biocompatible polymeric scaffold materials, methods for making the materials and methods of using the materials. More particularly, the present invention relates to implants and grafts comprising polymeric scaffold materials of cross-linked human tropoelastin polypeptides and methods of making and using the same. In addition, the present invention provides alternatively spliced tropoelastin polynucleotides and polypeptides.
US09114123B2 Hepatic neuromodulation using fluids or chemical agents
According to some embodiments, a method of treating a subject having diabetes or symptoms associated with diabetes is provided. The method includes delivering a neuromodulation catheter within a vessel (e.g., hepatic artery) having surrounding nerves that innervate the liver (e.g., sympathetic nerves of the hepatic plexus). The method may also include modulating (e.g., disrupting, ablating, stimulating) the nerves by mechanical compression, energy delivery, or fluid delivery.
US09114121B2 Radiation protection system
The present invention relates to a shield for radiation attenuation. The shield includes a carrier suitable for topical application on human tissue, such as skin. The carrier includes an active ingredient that is homogenously dispersed throughout the carrier. The active ingredient includes an element suitable for attenuating radiation and having a high atomic number.
US09114120B2 Therapeutical method for the treatment of the Leber optic neuropathy
It is described the use of L-carnitine and/or one or more alkanoyl L-carnitines, or mixture thereof, or one of their pharmaceutically acceptable salts, for the preparation of a medicament or a nutritional supplement useful for preventing or treating the Leber optic neuropathy.
US09114118B2 Compounds and compositions for the treatment of cancer
New uses for phenylketone carboxylate compounds and substituted aromatic compounds of Formula I, Formula I.1, Formula I.2, Formula IA, Formula IB, Formula IC and Formula II and their pharmaceutical acceptable salts for the treatment of cancer. The use of a combination of two of these compounds is described and the use of the combination of one of these compounds with an anticancer agent such as decarbazine, doxorubicin, daunorubicin, cyclophosphamide, busulfex, busulfan, vinblastine, vincristine, bleomycin, etoposide, topotecan, irinotecan, taxotere, taxol, 5-fluorouracil, methotrexate, gemcitabine, cisplatin, carboplatin and chlorambucil.
US09114117B2 Compounds effective against cancer
The present invention describes a Composition, comprising one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of a) compound (I) which is ethacrynic acid bezafibrate, fenofibrate, and/or griseofulvin, b) compound (II), which is ciclopirox ciclopirox olamine, octopirox, and/or cinnarizine, c) mixtures of compound (I) and compound (II), or pharmaceutically acceptable derivatives thereof for the treatment of cancer. The present invention is further directed to the use of said compounds or a mixture of compounds for the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of cancer and to the use of said compound in a method for treating cancers in animals and humans.
US09114114B2 Edible products having a high cocoa polyphenol content and improved flavor and the milled cocoa extracts used therein
Milling dry extracts containing cocoa polyphenols (CPs) to reduce the particle size improves the flavor of edible products (e.g., foods, medical foods, nutritional supplements, and pharmaceuticals) or additives containing the milled cocoa extracts. The products, e.g., chocolates, are less astringent and less bitter. The mean particle size after milling is less than about 15 microns, preferably less than about 10 microns, and most preferably less than about 5 microns. The total CP content of the milled extracts is at least about 300 milligrams and preferably about 300 to about 700 milligrams per gram of milled extract. The additives consist essentially of (i) the milled high CP cocoa extract and (ii) a fat (e.g., cocoa butter), an oil (e.g., vegetable oil), or a syrup (e.g., corn syrup).
US09114111B2 Methods for sustained treatment of bladder pain and irritative voiding
Method are provided for treating a patient having bladder pain and/or irritative voiding symptoms. The method includes administering to the patient's bladder lidocaine or another anesthetic agent continuously over a treatment period of 24 hours or more in an amount effective to achieve a therapeutic effect which is sustained beyond the end of the treatment period.
US09114110B2 Suspension type topical formulations comprising cyclic depdipeptide
The invention relates to novel topical pharmaceutical compositions in which the active agent is a cyclic depsipeptide of formula (II) and to methods for manufacturing such compositions.
US09114109B2 Five-coordinate neuroglobin and use thereof as a blood substitute
Described herein is the finding that a mutant form of human neuroglobin (H64L) with a stable five-coordinate geometry reduces nitrite to nitric oxide approximately 2000-times faster than the wild type neuroglobin. Five-coordinate neuroglobin is also capable of binding and releasing oxygen. Based on these findings, the use of five-coordinate neuroglobin as a blood substitute is described herein. Particularly provided is a method of replacing blood and/or increasing oxygen delivery to tissues in a subject by administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of neuroglobin with a stable five-coordinate geometry. In some cases, five-coordinate neuroglobin is administered in combination with another therapeutic agent or composition, such as a second blood replacement product (for example, a hemoglobin-based oxygen carrier), a blood product (such as red blood cells, serum or plasma) or whole blood.
US09114106B2 Method for the treatment or prevention of lower urinary tract symptoms
This invention concerns a method for treatment or prevention of lower urinary tract symptoms with or without pelvic pain in an individual, said method comprising administering to the individual an effective amount of a selective estrogen receptor modulator, or an isomer, isomer mixture or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
US09114105B2 Immunogenic compositions of Staphylococcus aureus antigens
The present invention relates to immunogenic compositions, comprising polypeptides and polysaccharides from Staphylococcus aureus. The present invention also relates to immunogenic compositions, comprising Staphylococcus aureus capsule polysaccharides conjugated to a carrier protein. In addition, the invention relates to methods of inducing an immune response in subjects against Staphylococcus aureus using immunogenic compositions of the Staphylococcus aureus polypeptides and capsule polysaccharides.
US09114104B2 Proteinase K inhibitors, methods and compositions therefor
The synthesis, biological evaluation, and molecular modeling of alkoxysuccinyl-peptidyl-haloalkyl ketones for use as proteinase K inhibitors are described. Sample preparation processes for in situ RNA or DNA analysis using such inhibitors, methods and compositions therefor are provided.
US09114097B1 Composition of natural toothpaste
A composition of natural toothpaste is provided which promotes the healthful effects of whitening teeth, freshening breath, sanitizing the mouth, and removing plaque and other buildup from enamel while avoiding risks associated with traditional artificial and/or synthetic ingredients. More particularly, coconut oil is provided to reduce bacteria in the mouth, whiten teeth, and freshen breath in combination with stevia and other ingredients as antioxidants, flavor enhancers, and/or anti-inflammatory agents.
US09114095B2 Oral care particle compositions comprising polyorganosilsesquioxane and an oxidizing agent
Oral compositions containing a polyorganosilsesquioxane particle, preferably polymethylsilsesquioxane particles, an oxidizing agent and an orally-acceptable carrier. Method of using such compositions for the cleaning and polishing of dental enamel, such methods including the step of applying such oral care compositions to the teeth of a user.
US09114094B2 Method of use and preparation of HSA fusion protein composition for skincare
The present invention provides a recombinant fusion protein which stimulates the rejuvenation and reactivation of skin and epidermal cells for improving skin appearance, smoothing wrinkles and freckles, and whitening skin. Particularly, the present invention provides various types of products for improving skin, which contain recombinant fusion protein of human serum albumin (HSA) with cytokine peptides (EGF, FGF, KGF, HGH, HGF, PDGF, GCSF, interferon, IL-11 or IGF) by genetic engineering technology. The fusion protein can be used independently or in a combination or combination with yeast fermentation products, or with varied emulsifiers, thickeners, moisturizer, preservatives, yeasts and ferments.
US09114090B1 Capsule for sublingual and gastro-intestinal delivery of a liquid medication in a single volume limited dose
A capsular design is disclosed for self-administered delivery of a pre-determined amount of liquid medication. The capsular design can be constructed as having either a single piece or two piece capsular wall construction where a portion of the liquid medication contained within can be administered sublingually and the remaining portion can be subsequently swallowed for gastro-intestinal absorption.
US09114087B2 Process for making visually distinctive multiple liquid phase compositions
A process for making multi-phase liquid compositions is disclosed. For example, a plurality of liquid phases can be placed in separate vessels equipped with supply lines. Predetermined amounts of each of the liquid phase can be transferred, via the supply lines, into a combiner that aligns each of the liquid phases. The liquid phases can be transferred from the combiner to a blender. A mixing element of the blender can blend the liquid phases together to produce a multi-phase liquid composition having a visually distinct pattern formed by the liquid phases. The multi-phase liquid phase composition can be transferred to an individual product container via a delivery nozzle. When said multi-phase liquid composition is transferred to said individual product container via said delivery nozzle, the individual product container can be rotated, via a rotating platform of a bottle holding device.
US09114086B2 Coated tablets of eszopiclone
Coated tablets of (6-(5-chloro-2-pyridyl)-5-[(4-methyl-1-piperazinyl)carbonyloxy]-7-oxo-6,7-dihydro-5H-pyrrolo[3,4-b]pyrazine) are provided. The tablets minimize the perceived bitterness of the medicament. A method for analyzing instantaneous dissolution of sub-microgram quantities of core material is also disclosed.
US09114085B2 Modified release pharmaceutical compositions of dexlansoprazole
Modified release oral pharmaceutical compositions of dexlansoprazole or pharmaceutically acceptable salts or hydrated forms thereof in the form of a bilayer tablet and processes for the manufacture of the tablet composition and its use in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders.
US09114081B2 Methods of treating pulmonary disorders with liposomal amikacin formulations
Disclosed herein are methods of treating pulmonary disorders comprising administering to the patient an effective dose of a nebulized liposomal amikacin formulation for at least one treatment cycle, wherein: the treatment cycle comprises an administration period of 15 to 75 days, followed by an off period of 15 to 75 days; and the effective dose comprises 100 to 2500 mg of amikacin daily during the administration period.
US09114080B2 Curable composition for dentistry
A dental curable composition includes: a radically polymerizable monomer; a polymerization initiator; and a hyperbranched polymer, in which the hyperbranched polymer includes a unit structure represented by the general formula (I) and unit structures represented by the general formula (IIA) and/or the general formula (IIB) (in the general formula (I), A represents a single bond for bonding C and R1, >C═O, —O—, or —COO—, R1 represents a divalent saturated aliphatic hydrocarbon group or a divalent aromatic hydrocarbon group, and R2 represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group; and in the general formula (IIA) and the general formula (IIB), R3, R4, and R5 each represent a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group, an alkoxycarbonyl group, an aryl group, or a cyano group, and R6 represents an alkylene group).
US09114078B2 Methods and compositions for genetic and retinal disease
An inventive method for treatment or prevention of vascular diseases of the retina is provided. A Norrin compound is optionally administered to a subject either directly and/or as expressed by a cell. The presence of the compound is either protective of or therapeutic for a pathological condition of the retina. Preferred pathological conditions are those linked to the absence of or mutation of norrin protein and are preferably Norrie disease, FEVR, or macular degeneration.
US09114076B2 Solid anhydrous cosmetic composition
The present invention relates especially to a solid anhydrous cosmetic composition comprising at least: at least 0.1% by weight of hollow particles relative to the total weight of the said composition, said composition being chosen from hydrophobic silica aerogel particles; a volatile oil; at least 5% by weight of at least one organopolysiloxane elastomer; and a wax.
US09114075B2 Dosage form for insertion into the mouth
Oral dosage forms as a biodegradable, water soluble film for delivering pharmaceutically active agents, to patients through insertion into the mouth of patient and methods for administering pharmaceutically active agents to patients by insertion into the mouth to provide selective uptake of said agents through the mucosa and thus avoiding the gastrointestinal tract.
US09114067B2 Local administration of gallium compositions to treat pain
Provided are methods of treating pain, including neuropathic pain, in human and veterinary individuals. These methods employ locally administrable pharmaceutical gallium compositions, including pharmaceutical gallium compositions suitable for administration to the skin and mucous membranes. The compositions comprise pharmaceutically acceptable gallium compounds, such as gallium maltolate or gallium nitrate, together with pharmaceutically acceptable carriers suitable for local administration, including those suitable for topical administration. The administration of such compositions provides relief from pain, itching, allodynia, hyperalgesia, and related symptoms.
US09114065B2 Method and system for monitoring nutritional uptake as a function of microflora intestinal gas levels
Systems and methods for monitoring nutritional uptake of an individual are disclosed. The method can include monitoring microflora intestinal gas concentration levels associated with a patient and adjusting the volume of nutrient provided by the patient with an artificial feeding device based at least in part on the microflora intestinal gas levels associated with the patient. A microflora intestinal gas sensor can be used to monitor the microflora intestinal gas associated with the patient. The microflora intestinal gas sensor can monitor the microflora intestinal gas in a patient's exhaled breath or in the patient's digestive tract. The microflora intestinal gas sensor be included as part of an enteral feeding system at the distal end or outside end of an enteral feeding tube. Systems and methods for monitoring nutritional uptake of an infant based on microflora intestinal gas levels associated with the infant are also disclosed.
US09114054B2 System for monitoring the use of medical devices
A system for monitoring the use of a home-based medical apparatus providing medical therapy to a patient incorporates communication technology to permit communication from the operated component of the medical apparatus to a central station through one or more of Bluetooth® telephone communications, Smart Phone communications, Internet communications through a network, or other known or forthcoming communication devices. The operated medical apparatus can report any operational function to the central station for monitoring by medical professionals or caregivers, including the timing of any operation of the apparatus, the duration of operation, the effectiveness of the therapy, and malfunctions in the operation of the apparatus. The monitoring system is particularly adapted for use with inflation garment therapy and negative pressure wound therapy systems. The medical apparatus can also be provided with an RFD tag so that the medical apparatus, and perhaps the patient using the medical apparatus, can be found.
US09114051B2 Traction bed
A traction bed includes a frame upon which an individual is supportable, first and second lever arms pivotably coupled to the frame at a location proximate a first end of the frame and configured to be coupled to the individual's upper torso, third and fourth lever arms pivotably coupled to the frame at a location proximate a second end of the frame and configured to be coupled to the individual's pelvis or pelvic region, and a control system operable to direct a force onto each of the lever arms to pivot the lever arms relative to the frame. The force directed to the first and third lever arms is separately variable from the force directed to the second and fourth lever arms to provide differential traction on the individual's body.
US09114048B2 Air mattress
Provided is an air mattress capable of preventing the occurrence of decubitus ulcers in a person lying on the air mattress.The air mattress has a plurality of air cell groups made from a plurality of bladder-shaped cells and lined up with respect to the lengthwise direction of the air mattress so as to support at least a head area, shoulder area, back area, buttock, thigh area, knee area, and heel area of a person lying on said air mattress; an air supply/release pump; and an air tube connecting said bladder-shaped cells and said air supply/release pump in one or a plurality of independent first systems for each of the air cell groups out of said air cell groups and one or a plurality of independent second systems for each of specific bladder-shaped cells out of the plurality of air cell groups. Air supply/release by the air supply/release pump is controlled by a controller, and the pressure in at least air cell groups corresponding to a back area and a thigh area is greater than the pressure in an air cell groups corresponding to a buttock area.
US09114046B2 Absorbent articles with elastics in multiple layers
Absorbent articles that include elastics in multiple layers are disclosed herein.
US09114044B2 Absorbent article
An absorbent article such as a sanitary napkin has a respective wing-shaped flap extending outward from each side of the main body of the absorbent article. Each wing-shaped flap has a front profile line and a rear profile line. The front profile line is a wave-shape formed by a repetition of convex portions and concave portions. The angle between a line connecting the vertex of the outermost concave portion of the wing-shaped flap with the origin point of the front profile line of the wing-shaped flap and another line originating at the origin point of the front profile line of the wing-shaped flap is 60-65°.
US09114042B2 Laminates with micro-texture
A laminate with micro-texture having attachment lines oriented in a primary direction and mechanically activated in the primary direction.
US09114037B2 Tube with reverse necking properties
An improved tubular structure adapted to increase in diameter upon application of axial force is provided. Increase in diameter is achieved by constructing the tube from multiple layers of material that move relative to each other during axial elongation of the tube. The tube of the present invention can be used both to avoid problems in “necking” found in many prior tube devices, and to provide additional benefits that increases in diameter of the tube during axial elongation can provide. As such, the tube of the present invention may be useful as a manufacturing aid, as a deployment sheath (for example, to deliver medical devices), and in other applications that may benefit from easier tubular sheath removal.
US09114033B2 Stent with self-deployable portion
The present invention provides methods and devices for placement of a stent in a bifurcation or ostial lesion. The stent comprises a main body and a flaring portion. The main body is designed to expand and support a main vessel while the flaring portion deploys at least partially in response to expansion of the main body and is designed to open into and support a side branch or bifurcation ostium area. The stent may also comprise a therapeutic agent which can be delivered to a blood vessel.
US09114030B2 System for control of a prosthetic device
A control system for control of a prosthetic device having a plurality of actuators receives an orientation signal indicative of a desired movement. The control system evaluates whether the prosthetic device may move as desired with a current angle of rotation and commands at least one actuator to move the prosthetic device as desired by maintaining the current angle of rotation or by adjusting the angle of rotation if the prosthetic device cannot move as desired with the current angle. The control system may alternate between commanding a first subset of actuators and a second subset of actuators each time the orientation signal is indicative of a neutral position. The control system may include a position sensor and a compliance sensor and may command at least one actuator based on a combination of positional control using the position sensor and force control using the compliance sensor.
US09114024B2 Systems, devices, and methods for anchoring orthopaedic implants to bone
Methods, devices, and systems for delivering and attaching flexible implants to a bone or joint surface. An implant container includes a first component for surrounding and enclosing an implant and a second component adapted for maintaining, supporting, and conforming the shape of the implant. The implant container designed to have at least one component attachable to the implant and to a delivery instrument or tool. The implant container component having a material allowing transmission of light through a thickness of the container and a thickness of an attached implant to cure an adhesive placed between the implant and a bone surface. Additionally, embodiments described provide delivery instruments and tools for attaching implants and implants within containers to a joint or bone surface.
US09114022B1 Interbody spacer systems and related methods
MIS TLIF systems and related methods. Implementations of distractor devices may include a first portion and a second portion where the second portion is slidably coupled over the first portion. A position of the second portion relative to the first portion may be adjustable through contacting a distractor latch coupled to the second portion with a plurality of teeth on a side of the first portion. The first portion may include a first pedicle screw pin on an end of the first portion opposing the second portion. The second portion may include a second pedicle screw pin on an end of the second portion opposing the first portion. The first pedicle screw pin and the second pedicle screw pin may be both configured to couple with a pedicle screw head. A length of the distractor device may be configured to be adjustable through sliding of the first portion.
US09114018B2 Implantable thumb joint assembly with spherical inter-support
A multi-component thumb joint assembly incorporated into reconditioned end surfaces established between upper metacarpal and opposing lower proximal phalanx bones. A first component is anchored into a reconditioned end surface of the metacarpal bone and exhibits a first exposed support surface. A second component is anchored into a reconditioned end surface of the proximal phalanx and exhibits a second exposed support surface. An intermediate and spherical shaped component is supported in at least one of eccentric or rotational fashion between the first and second anchored components.
US09113998B2 Patellofemoral device and method for using the same
A patellofemoral brace or support has a main substrate, a hinge located on at least one of the lateral and medial sides, and a support system coupled to the main substrate and the hinge. The support system has a compression element removably securable over the main substrate and a cable having a first end anchored to a pivoting element connected to the hinge and a second end anchored to the compression element. The cable engages the hinge such that articulation of the hinge from an extension position to a flexion position pulls the compression element toward the hinge to exert a generally medial force over the main substrate.
US09113995B2 Steerable laser probe
A steerable laser probe may include a handle, and inner bore of the handle, an actuation lever of the handle, a housing tube, and an optic fiber disposed within the inner bore of the handle and the housing tube. The housing tube may have a first housing tube portion having a first stiffness and a second housing tube portion having a second stiffness. The second stiffness may be greater than the first stiffness.
US09113993B2 Mesh patch for use in laparoscopic hernia surgery
A mesh patch for a laparoscopic hernia surgery, which includes a flexible mesh, an adhesion layer surface, and an anti-adhesion layer surface. The flexible mesh is formed of a thin layer of filament using a biocompatible polymer. The adhesion layer surface is disposed on a front surface of the mesh. The adhesion layer surface is coated with an adhesion inducing material to be fixedly attached to a peritoneum. The anti-adhesion layer surface is disposed on a rear surface of the mesh. The anti-adhesion layer surface is coated with an anti-adhesion material so as not to adhere to intestines in an abdominal cavity. The protection film is detachably attached to the adhesion layer surface and the anti-adhesion layer surface to protect the mesh. Here, the protection film is easily detached by a laparoscopic instrument, and has an adhesive strength such that the mesh is unfolded upon detaching.
US09113991B2 Anchors for bodily implants and methods for anchoring bodily implants into a patient's body
An anchor is provided for anchoring a bodily implant within a body of a patient. The anchor includes an implant engaging portion for engaging the bodily implant, wherein the implant engaging portion is disposed on a lateral portion of the anchor. The anchor further includes a distal end portion configured to pass through a passageway in the patient's body, the passageway defining a first axis and a proximal end portion disposed longitudinally opposite to the distal end portion on the anchor. The anchor defines a second axis extending from the distal end portion to the proximal end portion. The anchor is configured to rotate when a force is applied to the bodily implant such that the second axis defined by the anchor forms an angle with the first axis defined by the passageway.
US09113989B2 Methods and devices for supporting, elevating, or compressing internal structures
The present invention relates generally to dynamic support devices, methods of providing dynamic support to target tissues, and kits comprising these devices. These devices may have particular utility in providing support to the urethra. The dynamic support devices generally comprise at least one attachment member for attachment to bodily tissue, and at least one support member, where the device capable of assuming a first configuration and a second configuration. The dynamic support devices may be configured to support a target tissue when the device is in its second configuration. The support member may comprise one or more rotating components, one or more deformable components, one or more sliding components, or a combination thereof.
US09113981B2 Ejection device and method of filling the ejection device with a material
[Problems] To fill a container with a material without applying a high pressure to the material that is to be filled.[Means for Solution] An ejection device 1 comprises a filling chamber 24 formed in a cylindrical member for containing a material to be filled, a discharge portion 7 having a discharge nozzle 12 for pouring out the filled material to the exterior, and a piston 4 that pushes the filled material toward the front end side of the filling chamber 24 to discharge the filled material through the discharge nozzle 12. In the ejection device 1, the discharge portion 7 is formed separately from the filling chamber 24 and in a manner to be fitted to an opening on one end side of the cylindrical member 24, the opening serving as a filling port for filling the material to be filled, and after the material to be filled is poured into the filling chamber 24 through the filling port, the discharge portion 7 is coupled to the filling chamber 24.
US09113980B2 Instrument for drilling dental root canals
An instrument for drilling dental root canals, includes a tapered rod having on at least an active part of its length, at least one helical flute defining at least one helical cutting edge. The instrument also has a helical hollow on a portion of the active part extending as far as the point of the rod. At least one of the edges defined by the helical hollow is coincident with the cutting edge, the hollow reducing the cutting angle of the cutting edge. Any cross-section of the active part has at least one convex side belonging to the helical flute. The closer the cross-section in question is to the point of the rod, the more the curvature at any point of the convex side increases and tends to approximate the curvature of the circumscribed circle of the cross-section and passing via the cutting edge defined by the helical flute.
US09113979B2 Dental implant devices, kits, and methods
Dental implant devices, kits, and methods for implantation or use in a bone cavity, are disclosed. A dental implant can include a body portion, extending from a proximal end to a distal end along a longitudinal axis, including a central bore extending from the proximal end to a termination point, located proximal of the distal end. The dental implant can further include and one or more channels extending between the central bore and an exterior surface of the body portion. A kit can include a set of different sized dental implants, a set of slugs including a resorbable material, and optionally, an injection tool. A method can include inserting the dental implant into a bone cavity, introducing a resorbable material into the central bore of the body portion, and permitting the resorbable material to flow from the central bore, through the one or more channels, and into the bone cavity.
US09113978B2 Implant for insertion into the jawbone, prosthetics pillar and implant system
An implant for insertion into the jawbone, the implant including a helical body for receiving at least part of a prosthetics pillar, the prosthetics pillar configured for insertion into the implant, the prosthetics pillar comprising a screw section with an external thread, and the prosthetics pillar further configured to carry an artificial tooth.
US09113976B2 Headless compression screw with integrated reduction-compression instrument
A bone screw is provided having first and second threaded portions of different diameter separated by a middle portion that is unthreaded so that the bone screw may be inserted into a pair of adjacent bone fragments and used to compress the fragments together by driving the screw into a hole drilled in the fragments. An installation tool is also disclosed for threadably engaging one end of the bone screw and is used to initially drive the screw into the bone hole. Thereafter, a screwdriver may be inserted through the tool and into engagement with a recess in the bone screw and may be used to drive the screw fully into the bone and to separate the bone screw from the installation tool. A method of installation is further provided.
US09113968B2 Dynamic bone plate compression device and method
A dynamic bone plate and method of bone compression is disclosed. The dynamic bone plate comprises a first bone plate component and a second bone plate component. The first bone plate component comprises at least one hole configured for receiving bone screws for attachment to a first bone segment; and a male component. The second bone plate component comprises at least one hole configured for receiving bone screws for attachment to a second bone segment; and a female component configured for mating with the male component of the first bone plate component. The male component is adjustable after mating with the female component to adjust a position of the first bone plate component with respect to the second bone plate component and wherein the male component is locked into place with respect to the female component by at least one bone screw inserted through the at least one hole of the second bone plate component causing compression between the first bone segment and the second bone segment to form a corrective construct.
US09113965B2 Vertical inline plate
A spinal plate having an upper surface and a lower surface, the lower surface adapted to contact bone. A plurality of holes extend from the upper surface to the lower surface through the plate which is configured and adapted to receive bone fasteners for fixing the spinal plate to bone. The lower surface of the spinal plate comprises a ridge that protrudes from the underside of the plate and encloses the plurality of holes spaced inward from the perimeter of the spinal plate.
US09113963B2 Device for tensioning a flexible band
A device (17) is provided for tensioning a flexible band (3) used to maintain a bone element on an implant. The device includes a rod (18) having a first end (19) provided with means (20) for bearing on the implant, a movable part (32) for hooking the flexible band onto a portion (28) of the device, and means (34) for adjustably locking the movable part in translation in relation to the portion of the device. The rod (18) includes a gripping handle (26) at the second end (27) thereof. The aforementioned portion of the device forms an angle α with the rod (18) to which it is rigidly connected at an intermediary point, the direction of the band being altered at an angle, and the aforementioned adjustable locking means (34) includes manual screwing means (35) for actuating the movable part.
US09113951B2 Seal anchor for use in surgical procedures
A surgical apparatus for positioning within a tissue tract accessing an underlying body cavity includes a seal anchor member comprising a compressible material and being adapted to transition between a first expanded condition to facilitate securing of the seal anchor member within the tissue tract and in substantial sealed relation with tissue surfaces defining the tissue tract and a second compressed condition to facilitate at least partial insertion of the seal anchor member within the tissue tract. The seal anchor member defines a longitudinal axis, and has leading and trailing ends with at least one longitudinal port extending therebetween adapted for reception of an object whereby compressible material defining the at least one port is adapted to deform to establish a substantial sealed relation with the object. The seal anchor member may comprise a memory foam material and may include a plurality of longitudinal ports.
US09113947B2 Port device including retractable endoscope cleaner
A surgical apparatus includes a housing member having leading and trailing ends that define a longitudinal axis. One or more ports longitudinally extend between the leading and trailing ends, and are configured and adapted to receive a surgical instrument therein in a substantially sealed relation. At least one cleaning port longitudinally extends between the leading and trailing ends, and is configured and adapted to receive a cleaning device therein. The cleaning device is configured and adapted to clean surgical instruments positioned within the one or more ports without necessitating removal of the surgical instruments from the one or more ports.
US09113939B2 Single port instruments
Surgical tools that can be used in single port laparoscopic procedures can include a low-profile handle assembly to minimize tool interference adjacent the incision site. For example, a handle assembly for a surgical instrument can have a generally in-line configuration extending linearly along a central longitudinal axis of an elongate shaft of the instrument. A linkage mechanism including a trigger, an actuation link, and an actuation shaft can be positioned within the in-line handle. The linkage mechanism can be pivoted between an open position in which end effectors of the instrument are open and a toggle position in which the end effectors are locked closed. A locking mechanism such as a ratchet mechanism can also be used to lock the end effectors. A surgical dissector can include gripping jaws having a curved profile or an angled elongate shaft to minimize tool interference and maximize visibility within a procedure site.
US09113937B2 Surgical forceps
A forceps includes a pair of shafts each having a jaw member disposed at a distal end thereof. One (or both) of the shafts is moveable relative to the other about a pivot pin between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position to move the jaw members between an open position and a closed position. A knife assembly includes a knife blade mechanically keyed to the pivot pin and moveable between an initial position, wherein the knife blade is disposed within one of the jaw members, and an extended position, wherein the knife blade extends between the jaw members. An actuator arm(s) is mechanically keyed to the pivot pin and extends therefrom. The actuator arm(s) is moveable between an un-actuated position and an actuated position to rotate the pivot pin relative to the jaw members to move the knife blade between the initial position and the extended position.
US09113935B2 Oscillating lithotripter
A tip element for a lithotripter is provided. The tip element includes a proximal end configured for attachment to a waveguide of the lithotripter and a distal end configured for placement against at least one urinary tract stone. The lithotripter transmits energy from the tip element to the at least one urinary tract stone to break up the at least one urinary tract stone into fragments. The tip element may further include a tip element passage that extends between the proximal end and the distal end. The tip element passage communicates with a lumen of the waveguide for at least one of suctioning and irrigating a urinary tract. The distal end has one or more sharp edges to maintain contact between the at least one urinary tract stone and the distal end during suctioning. The distal end may be configured to limit the size of fragments from the at least one urinary tract stone drawn into the tip element passage during suctioning.
US09113928B2 Cosmetic surgery apparatus and method
The present invention provides surgical apparatus for liposuction in which microwave energy is delivered from a probe into a treatment region to perform a fat liquefying function or a haemostasis function. The apparatus is arranged such that an output microwave field automatically adopts a configuration suitable for the fat liquefying function or haemostasis function depending on the type of tissue encountered by the probe in the treatment region. In particular, by suitable selection of the frequency of the microwave energy, the difference in skin depth of the microwave energy in fat and blood may enable the microwave field to automatically switch its configuration between one suitable for fat liquefying and one suitable for haemostasis without any change required to the amount of microwave power or the energy profile delivered to the probe.
US09113927B2 Apparatus and methods of use for treating blood vessels
An electrosurgical apparatus is provided. The electrosurgical apparatus includes a cannula insertable into a patient and positionable adjacent abnormal tissue. The electrosurgical apparatus includes a microwave antenna that includes a distal end having a radiating section receivable within the cannula and positionable within a patient adjacent abnormal tissue. The microwave antenna is adapted to connect to a source of electrosurgical energy for transmitting electrosurgical energy to the radiating section. A portion of the radiating section substantially encompasses a portion of the abnormal tissue and may be configured to apply pressure thereto. The microwave antenna is actuated to electrocautery treat tissue to reduce blood flow to the abnormal tissue.
US09113923B2 Distal femoral cutting guide
A method of positioning a femoral cutting guide on a distal end of a femur establishes at least a first reference plane to perform a distal femoral planar cut. The method includes inserting a mounting member into an intramedullary canal of the femur and coupling a bridge member to the mounting member. The method also includes placing a cutting guide member over a medial anterior portion of the distal femur. The cutting guide member has a first channel that establishes the first reference plane. The bridge member has a bridge channel. A wall of the bridge channel is inserted into the first channel of the cutting guide member. A mounting mechanism generates resistance between the bridge member and the cutting guide member. The resistance is overcome by positioning the cutting guide member relative to the femur.
US09113917B2 Surgical drill instrument with motor and locking mechanism to receive an attachment and a cutting burr
A surgical apparatus having a locking mechanism that receives a cutting burr and that may include a loading and running position. The locking mechanism may include a motor driven spindle that carries a locking pawl and a detent pawl that lock the cutting burr in place an prevent the cutting burr from inadvertently falling out of the surgical drill instrument when in its load position. A diamond-shaped portion of the cutting burr may be formed in a six-sided diamond configuration and a perpendicular back end surface. The end of the cutting burr may include another diamond-shaped portion formed in a six-sided diamond shape surface that mates with a complementary surface formed in the receiving end of the spindle of the motor/locking mechanism. In an aspect, the attachment of the cutting burr is such that the cutting burr has substantially zero axial movement and runs true in the running condition.
US09113913B2 Locking mechanism for a surgical instrument
A surgical instrument has first and second components that can rotate relative to one another and a locking mechanism to selectively restrict or allow rotation between the first and second components. One component has a first array of two or more grooves or teeth spaced apart at a first angular pitch and at least one further groove or further tooth which does not correspond to the first angular pitch. The other component comprises a first tooth or a first groove to engage one of the first array of grooves or teeth to selectively restrict rotation to two or more predetermined rotational positions; the other component also selectively engages the at least one further groove or further tooth on the first component to selectively restrict rotation between the first and second components at a 0° rotational position.
US09113909B2 Surgical vessel sealer and divider
A forceps includes an end effector assembly having first and second jaw members. Each jaw member includes an elongated proximal segment and a distal segment. The distal segments are configured to grasp tissue therebetween. The jaw members are biased towards a spaced-apart position relative to one another. A sliding unit is disposed about the first and second jaw members and is slidable relative to the jaw members between a first position, wherein the sliding unit is disposed about the elongated proximal segments of the jaw members, and a second position, wherein the sliding unit is disposed about the distal segments of the jaw members. The sliding unit is configured to transition the jaw members against the bias from the spaced-apart position to an approximated position for grasping tissue therebetween upon sliding of the sliding unit from the first position to the second position.
US09113902B2 Drive mechanism for articulation of a surgical instrument
A surgical instrument includes a housing, an end effector and an elongated shaft extending therebetween. The elongated shaft includes a distal portion that is movable between aligned and articulated configurations. A pair of drive cables extends through the elongated shaft and is coupled to the distal portion such that reciprocal longitudinal motion of the drive cables induces movement of the distal portion between the aligned and articulated configurations. An articulation drive mechanism is operable to induce reciprocal longitudinal motion of the drive cables. The drive mechanism includes an actuator and a pair of torsion members that are rotatable about two distinct axes in response to movement of the actuator. A respective follower is operatively coupled to each torsion member to translate in a respective longitudinal direction in response to rotation of the torsion members, and each follower is coupled to a respective drive cable to impart translational motion thereto.
US09113901B2 Modular surgical instrument with contained electrical or mechanical systems
A surgical instrument includes an elongated shaft module and a handle module selectively separable from one another. The elongated shaft module includes an elongated shaft member and a pair of jaw members supported at a distal end of the elongated shaft member, at least one of the jaw members moveable relative to the other jaw member between open and closed positions. The handle module includes a housing including an opening extending longitudinally therethrough. The opening is dimensioned to permit passage of the pair of jaw members in the closed position. The handle module also includes a movable handle movable relative to the housing to move the pair of jaw members between open and closed positions, and a lock to secure the elongated shaft module in place within the housing.
US09113900B2 Method and system for controlling output of RF medical generator
A system for monitoring and/or controlling tissue modification during an electrosurgical procedure is disclosed. The system includes a sensor module and a control module operatively coupled to the sensor module and configured to control the delivery of electrosurgical energy to tissue based on information provided by the sensor module. The sensor module further includes at least one optical source configured to generate light and at least one optical detector configured to analyze a portion of the light transmitted through, and/or reflected from, the tissue.
US09113899B2 Coupling mechanisms for surgical instruments
A surgical instrument includes a shaft defining a longitudinal axis therethrough and having an end effector assembly disposed at a distal end thereof. The shaft includes first and second shaft components that are releasably engageable with one another. A drive sleeve is disposed within the shaft and is longitudinally translatable relative to the shaft to transition the end effector assembly between a first state and a second state. The drive sleeve includes first and second drive sleeve components that are releasably engageable with one another. A coupling mechanism includes one or more shaft cantilever springs configured to releasably engage the first and second shaft components to one another and one or more drive sleeve cantilever springs configured to releasably engage the first and second drive sleeve components to one another.
US09113897B2 Partitioned surgical instrument
A surgical instrument a reusable component and a disposable component selectively separable from and engagable with the reusable component. The disposable component includes an end effector and a mechanical actuator operable to induce mechanical movement of the end effector. The reusable component is configured for providing electrosurgical energy to the disposable component when engaged with the disposable component. A physical mating feature is configured to maintain engagement between the reusable and disposable components when the reusable and disposable components are engaged, and an electrical mating feature is configured to transmit electrical energy between the disposable and reusable components when the disposable and reusable components are engaged. All mechanical motion resulting from operation of the mechanical actuator may be contained within the disposable component.
US09113896B2 Method and apparatus for creating a bi-polar virtual electrode used for the ablation of tissue
A method and apparatus for creating a virtual electrode to ablate bodily tissue. The apparatus includes an outer tube, a first electrode, an inner tube and a second electrode. The outer tube is fluidly connected to a source of conductive fluid and defines a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end includes an opening for delivering conductive fluid from the outer tube. The first electrode is disposed at the distal end of the outer tube for applying a current to conductive fluid delivered from the outer tube. The inner tube is coaxially received within the outer tube and is connected to a source of conductive fluid. The inner tube defines a proximal end and a distal end, with the distal end forming an opening for delivering conductive fluid from the inner tube. Finally, the second electrode is disposed at the distal end of the inner tube for applying a current to conductive fluid delivered from the inner tube. With this configuration, upon final assembly, the distal end of the outer tube is axially spaced from the distal end of the inner tube such that the first electrode is spaced from the second electrode. As a result, a bi-polar virtual electrode can be established.
US09113894B2 Vein presentation enhancement device
Preferably, an embodiment of a vein presentation enhancement device includes at least, an interior cover supporting a first fastening member, and an exterior cover communicating with the interior cover, wherein the exterior cover provides a first securement member that interacts with the first fastening member to secure the preferred device positioned about a limb of a subject. The preferred embodiment further includes a bladder formed between the interior and exterior covers, and an air transfer assembly connected to said bladder for transfer of air into and out of said bladder, wherein said interior and exterior covers collectively provide a plurality of projections defining a blood access window.
US09113888B2 Electrosurgical system employing multiple electrodes and method thereof
A method for performing an electrosurgical procedure at a surgical site on a patient, the method including the steps of providing a current restricting circuit operatively coupled between a source of electro surgical energy and an electrode, the current restricting circuit including: a switch configured to direct the flow of electrosurgical energy; and a plurality of current restrictive devices arranged in an H-Bridge arrangement, wherein the switch is disposed between adjacent current restrictive devices of the plurality of current restrictive devices; restricting the flow of electrosurgical energy wherein the current restricting circuit is configured to restrict a flow of electrosurgical energy when the switch is in a first position; enabling the flow of electrosurgical energy when the switch is in a second position; and dynamically controlling the electrosurgical energy delivered to the electrode with the current restricting circuit.
US09113886B2 Tilt top anvil with torsion spring
A tilt anvil assembly is disclosed which includes a center rod, a head assembly, and a torsion spring configured to pivot the head assembly relative to the center rod. The head assembly has a locking collar defining a locked position preventing pivotal movement of the head assembly, and an unlocked position allowing pivotal movement of the head assembly. The torsion spring selectively engages the locking collar to maintain the locking collar at either the locked or unlocked position.
US09113884B2 Modular surgical tool systems
Modular surgical instruments are disclosed. In various embodiments, a modular surgical instrument t is disclosed for use with a plurality of interchangeable surgical tool heads that are configured to perform different surgical actions. The instrument is configured to apply a plurality of different rotary drive motions and axial drive motions depending upon the type of surgical tool head attached thereto.
US09113882B2 Method of manufacturing an electrosurgical instrument
A method for manufacturing a pair of jaw members configured for use with an electrosurgical forceps is provided. One or more pairs of seal plates are stamped from a sheet metal. The seal plates are positioned into respective mold cavities. An insulative substrate is introduced into the respective mold cavities. The insulative substrate is allowed to harden in the respective mold cavities to form respective jaw housings with seal plates secured thereto. The jaw housings are removed from the respective mold cavities to form a pair of jaw members.
US09113881B2 Travel clip for surgical staple cartridge
A travel clip is provided for use with a surgical staple cartridge. The travel clip includes a cover having first and second side edges which varying in distance from a centerline of the cover and a longitudinally extending rib projecting perpendicularly along the centerline of the cover. The first and second side edges include areas of maximum distance from the centerline of the cover and areas of minimum distance from the centerline of the cover. The space between adjacent areas of maximum distance from the centerline of the cover provide cutouts or openings for viewing, inspection and verification of structure retained within the surgical staple cartridge.
US09113880B2 Internal backbone structural chassis for a surgical device
A chassis for mounting a set of operating components of a power head of a surgical instrument is disclosed. The power head has a housing enabling access to an interior volume of the power head encompassed by the housing. The set of operating components have a proper configuration for alignment when mounted within the interior volume encompassed by the housing. The chassis is configured to provide the proper configuration for alignment of either an original or replacement set of operating components mounted on the chassis if the chassis and set of operating components are mounted within the interior volume of the housing. The chassis may be formed from metal and the housing formed from a polymer. The chassis may be configured to ground at least one electrical component.
US09113876B2 Powered surgical instrument
A surgical instrument including a handle assembly, a first endoscopic portion, a motor, and a first end effector is disclosed. The first endoscopic portion is selectively connectable to a distal portion of the handle assembly and defines a longitudinal axis. The first endoscopic portion includes a housing adjacent its proximal portion and includes an actuation member. The motor is disposed in mechanical cooperation with the housing of the first endoscopic portion and is operatively connected to the actuation member for moving the actuation member substantially along the longitudinal axis. The first end effector is selectively connectable to a distal portion of the first endoscopic portion and is configured to perform a first stapling function.
US09113874B2 Surgical instrument system
A surgical instrument system is disclosed including a surgical instrument and a remote user-controlled actuation console for controlling the surgical instrument.
US09113873B2 Detachable buttress material retention systems for use with a surgical stapling device
Systems of releasably connecting staple line buttress material to the jaws of a surgical stapling instrument are provided. The systems include retainers configured to engage the buttress material and releasably retain the buttress material on the jaws of the surgical stapling instrument prior to stapling tissue. In certain embodiments, the retainers remain with the jaws of the instrument after stapling of tissue. In alternative embodiments, the retainers remain with the buttress material after being stapled to tissue.
US09113871B2 Surgical stapling device
A surgical stapling device an elongated body portion having proximal and distal portions, and a head portion positioned adjacent the distal portion of the elongated body portion. The head portion includes a shell assembly and an anvil assembly movable relative to the shell assembly between un-approximated and approximated positions. The anvil assembly includes a center rod and an anvil head connected to the center rod. The center rod includes at least one aperture extending transversely therethrough and configured and dimensioned to receive a flexible member such that the flexible member extends transversely through the center rod.
US09113867B2 Devices and methods for endoluminal plication
Devices and methods are provided for forming and securing a tissue plication. More particularly, the devices and methods of the present invention can be used to create tissue folds on an anterior and posterior wall of a stomach cavity to reduce the volume thereof. In one aspect, a tissue acquisition and fixation system is disclosed that includes an elongate shaft, an end effector coupled to the elongate shaft and having first and second jaws, and a tissue acquisition member coupled to the end effector by a linkage assembly. At least a portion of the linkage assembly and tissue acquisition member are slidably movable in a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the jaws. Further, the tissue acquisition member is vertically movable relative to the end effector such that a distance between a longitudinal axis of the tissue acquisition member and the jaws can be adjusted.
US09113865B2 Staple cartridge comprising a layer
A fastener cartridge can comprise a support portion, a tissue thickness compensator positioned relative to the support portion, and a plurality of fasteners positioned within the support portion and/or the tissue thickness compensator which can be utilized to fasten tissue. In use, the fastener cartridge can be positioned in a first jaw of a surgical fastening device, wherein a second jaw, or anvil, can be positioned opposite the first jaw. To deploy the fasteners, a staple-deploying member is advanced through the fastener cartridge to move the fasteners toward the anvil. As the fasteners are deployed, the fasteners can capture at least a portion of the tissue thickness compensator therein along with at least a portion of the tissue being fastened.
US09113864B2 Surgical cutting and fastening instruments with separate and distinct fastener deployment and tissue cutting systems
A surgical instrument capable for use with an end effector supporting a staple cartridge therein. In various embodiments, the surgical instrument includes a firing system for applying firing motions to the end effector to form the unformed the staples supported in the staple cartridge. The surgical instrument further includes a tissue cutting system that may be optionally actuated after the staples have been formed.
US09113863B2 Surgical fastening assembly
An anvil assembly is provided and includes an anvil member having a plurality of staple bending pockets formed in a face of the anvil member and a length of reinforcing material suspended across the staple bending pockets. Longitudinal channels are provided in the face of the anvil member to releasably retain the reinforcing material. The longitudinal channels transect the staple bending pockets and support and suspend the reinforcing material over the staple bending pockets such that a leg of a surgical staple can be bent around the reinforcing material.
US09113862B2 Surgical stapling instrument with a variable staple forming system
A surgical stapling instrument for use with an end effector that has an anvil that is movable relative to a staple cartridge supported in the end effector. The end effector is supported by an elongated shaft that extends from a handle assembly. The staple cartridge has a plurality of unformed staples therein that are formed when the anvil is moved into forming contact therewith. Movement of the anvil is controlled by a firing trigger on a handle assembly. The amount of staple formation achieved is dependent upon the degree to which the firing trigger has been actuated.
US09113856B2 Device for taking at least one sample of tissue
A device for taking a sample of soft tissue from an organ includes a body, a needle having a cannula coaxial with a stylet, a mechanism for arming the needle, a triggering mechanism to release the stylet, and a security element. The mechanism includes an arming button connected to a platform. A distal portion of the platform is wider than a proximal portion of the platform. The platform includes a curvilinear edge connecting the distal portion of the platform with the proximal portion of the platform. The curvilinear edge of the platform is configured to interact with a projection formed inside of the body to pivot the platform out of a first position aligned with a cannula slide into a second position aligned with a stylet slider.
US09113851B2 Fistula plugs and apparatuses and methods for fistula plug delivery
Described are methods and apparatuses for delivering fistula plugs into fistulae having at least a primary fistula opening, a secondary fistula opening, and a fistula tract extending therebetween. Illustratively, some inventive methods involve delivering a fistula plug into a fistula tract through a primary fistula opening and toward a secondary fistula opening, while others involve delivering a fistula plug into a fistula tract through a secondary fistula opening and toward a primary fistula opening. In certain aspects, a fistula plug is pushed and/or pulled through a fistula tract along a guidewire or other plug-guiding device, potentially protected by a protective delivery device such as a sheath, capsule or other suitable delivery vehicle.
US09113849B2 Detachable ratcheting shaft for specimen retrieval bag
A system for retrieving a specimen includes a collapsible bag having a first mating member and a retrieval device having a second mating member. The second mating member cooperates with the first mating member for coupling the collapsible bag with the retrieval device. A rotation mechanism is disposed in the retrieval device. Actuation of the rotation device collapses an excess portion of the collapsible bag.
US09113847B2 Electro-mechanical surgical device
An electromechanical surgical device includes a motor system configured to drive drive-shafts and a steering cable arrangement. A control system may be provided for controlling the motor system. A remote control unit may also be provided for controlling the motor system via the control system. Optical or Hall-effect devices, may be provided for determining the position of the elements of the surgical instrument based on the detected rotation of the drive-shafts. A memory unit stores a plurality of operating programs or algorithms, each corresponding to a type of surgical instrument attachable to the electro-mechanical surgical device. The control system reads or selects from the plurality of operating programs or algorithms, the operating program or algorithm corresponding to the type of surgical instrument attached to the electromechanical surgical device.
US09113844B2 Non-invasive implant rupture detection system
Devices and methods for non-invasive implant rupture detection are described herein. Some variations of a non-invasive implant rupture detection device comprise a single optical waveguide, such as a silicone fiber, embedded in the shell of the implantable device where one end of the optical waveguide is connected to a photo emitter and the other end of the waveguide is connected to photo detector. An optical signal successfully transmitted from the photo emitter through an intact optical waveguide to the photo detector indicates that the implant shell is intact, while an optical signal that is transmitted by the photo emitter, but not detected by the photo detector, indicates that there is a discontinuity or rupture in the shell. The status of the implant shell is wirelessly communicated to an external reader and provided to a patient and/or a practitioner.
US09113841B2 Biological information notifying apparatus, biological information notifying method, and computer-readable storage medium having biological information notifying program stored thereon
A biological information notifying apparatus of the present invention includes a biological information obtainment sensor to detect biological information of a human body, a vibration section which notifies the biological information by transmitting vibrations to the human body, and a control section which causes the vibration section to vibrate in accordance with the biological information. The control section obtains a first count number of the biological information per a predetermined time period at a first time point, obtains a second count number at a second time point which follows the first time point, causes the vibration section to vibrate with a first vibration in accordance with the biological information, when a difference obtained by subtracting the first count number from the second count number is larger than a positive first value at the second time point.
US09113836B2 Devices and techniques associated with diagnostics, therapies, and other applications, including skin-associated applications
The present invention generally relates to devices and techniques associated with diagnostics, therapies, and other applications, including skin-associated applications, for example, devices for delivering and/or withdrawing fluid from subjects, e.g., through the skin. In some embodiments, the device includes a system for accessing an extractable medium from and/or through the skin of the subject at an access site, and a pressure regulator supported by a support structure, able to create a pressure differential across the skin at least a portion of the access site. The device may also include, in some cases, a sensor supported by the support structure for determining at least one condition of the extractable medium from the subject, and optionally a signal generator supported by the support structure for generating a signal relating to the condition of the medium determined by the sensor.
US09113835B2 System and method for generating a rendering of a volume of tissue based upon differential time-of-flight data
The system of one embodiment for imaging tissue includes ultrasound emitters configured to surround and emit acoustic waveforms toward the tissue, ultrasound receivers configured to surround and receive acoustic waveforms scattered by the tissue, and a processor configured for determining an observed differential time-of-flight (ToF) dataset and generating an acoustic speed rendering of the tissue based on the observed differential ToF dataset. The method of one embodiment for imaging tissue includes receiving data representative of acoustic waveforms scattered by the tissue, determining an observed differential ToF dataset, performing forward modeling to generate a calculated differential ToF dataset based on an acoustic speed model, performing inverse modeling to generate an acoustic speed model based on the observed and calculated differential ToF datasets, iteratively repeating forward modeling and inverse modeling until convergence is met with a final acoustic speed model, and generating an acoustic speed rendering from the final acoustic speed model.
US09113824B2 Compensation for respiratory motion
A method, including: measuring first positions of a probe fixed at a first point in a body of a patient over at least a portion of a respiration cycle of the patient, and formulating respective indicators of a respiration state of the patient at the first positions. The method further includes generating a functional relationship between the first positions and the respective indicators and extracting parameters from the functional relationship. The method also includes moving the probe to a second point of the body, measuring second positions of the probe at the second point during a subsequent respiration cycle of the patient, and applying the parameters to the second positions so as to compensate for respiratory motion of the patient at the second point.
US09113823B2 Portable monitoring devices and methods of operating same
The present inventions, in one aspect, are directed to a portable activity monitoring device comprising a housing having a physical size and shape that is adapted to couple to the user's body, a plurality of sensors (for example, motion sensor and altitude sensor) disposed in the housing. The monitoring device may further include processing circuitry, disposed in the housing and electrically coupled to the plurality of sensor, to calculate the activity points corresponding to the physical activity of the user using the sensor data, wherein the activity points correlate to an amount and intensity of the physical activity of the user, and output the data which is representative of the activity points. The monitoring device may also include a display, coupled to the processing circuitry, may output the data which is representative of the activity points to the user.
US09113820B2 Imaging apparatus and control method therefor
In order to solve the problem in that, when a fundus is irradiated with multiple beams, a load has been placed on a subject, an imaging apparatus for imaging an object to be inspected based on return light from a first area in the object to be inspected, which is irradiated with first light, including: a determination unit for determining a second area being narrower than the first area in the object to be inspected; and a control unit for restricting the irradiation with the first light in the second area, which is irradiated with second light.
US09113815B2 Systems and methods for ridge selection in scalograms of signals
According to embodiments, systems, devices, and methods for ridge selection in scalograms are disclosed. Ridges or ridge components are features within a scalogram which may be computed from a signal such as a physiological (e.g., photoplethysmographic) signal. Ridges may be identified from one or more scalograms of the signal. Parameters characterizing these ridges may be determined. Based at least in part on these parameters, a ridge density distribution function is determined. A ridge is selected from analyzing this ridge density distribution function. In some embodiments, the selected ridge is used to determine a physiological parameter such as respiration rate.
US09113813B2 Locatable catheter
A catheter having a sensor at a distal end thereof, useable to detect and create signals from an electromagnetic field. The sensor is constructed and arranged to leave a lumen of the catheter open such that it may be used to pass instruments therethrough once a target location has been reached.
US09113812B2 Method and apparatus for guiding an external needle to an implantable device
A system can include an implantable device, an instrument, a display device and a processor. The implantable device can include a port and a localizer for generating a navigation field. The instrument can include a tracking device for sensing the navigation field. The processor can be operably coupled to the tracking and display devices and operable to determine a real-time location of the instrument relative to the port and a trajectory of the instrument relative to an insertion axis of the port. The processor system can be operable to cause the display device to graphically render the instrument as a plurality of two or three-dimensional rings positioned around an axis coincident with the determined trajectory and in spaced relation to each other along the axis. A first ring of the plurality of rings can be positioned at the determined instrument location relative to a graphical representation of the port location.
US09113811B2 Image processing apparatus and computer program product
A tissue-image creating unit creates a tissue image including depth values by volume rendering from three-dimensional tissue data stored in a three-dimensional data storage unit. A blood-flow data converting unit scatters a blood flow in three-dimensional blood-flow data stored in the three-dimensional data storage unit into particles, and converts the three-dimensional blood-flow data into three-dimensional particle data. A blood-flow image creating unit creates a blood-flow image including depth values from the three-dimensional particle data. A composite-image creating unit then creates a composite image by coordinating the order of rendering particles and tissue based on the depth values of respective pixels included in the tissue image and the depth values of respective particles included in the blood-flow image. A display control unit then controls display of the composite image so as to be displayed in order onto a monitor included in an output unit.
US09113808B2 Systems, methods, and sensors for measuring tissue
Embodiments of devices and methods for evaluating tissue are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method for measuring a characteristic of a tissue may include passing a current through the tissue, measuring a signal corresponding to the voltage resulting from passing the current through the tissue, analyzing current passed through the tissue and resulting voltage to determine the electrical characteristics of the tissue; and analyzing the electrical characteristics of the tissue to determine a status of the tissue. Disposable sensors are disclosed.
US09113807B2 Dynamic adaptive respiration compensation with automatic gain control
A system for determining a location of an electrode of a medical device (e.g., a catheter) in a body of a patient includes a localization block for producing an uncompensated electrode location, a motion compensation block for producing a compensation signal (i.e., for respiration, cardiac, etc.), and a mechanism for subtracting the compensation signal from the uncompensated electrode location. The result is a corrected electrode location substantially free of respiration and cardiac artifacts. The motion compensation block includes a dynamic adaptation feature which accounts for changes in a patient's respiration patterns as well as intentional movements of the medical device to different locations within the patient's body. The system further includes an automatic compensation gain control which suppresses compensation when certain conditions, such as noise or sudden patch impedance changes, are detected.
US09113806B2 Endoscope apparatus for measuring a spatial characteristic
An image converter receives image data of an object and performs a kind of image conversion on the image data to generate converted image data for display. A measurement section measures at least one spatial characteristic of the object based on: the converted image data, and optical data, which relates to optical characteristics of an optical system through which the image data of the object has been obtained, and which is made to correspond to the kind of image conversion performed by the image converter. Alternatively, a measurement section measures at least one spatial characteristic of the object by relating, based on the kind of image conversion, coordinates of the converted image data to coordinates of the image data of the object before the image conversion, and by measuring the at least one spatial characteristic based on the coordinates of the image data of the object before the image conversion.
US09113801B2 Methods and systems for continuous EEG monitoring
A neurological control system for modulating activity of any component or structure comprising the entirety or portion of the nervous system, or any structure interfaced thereto, generally referred to herein as a “nervous system component.” The neurological control system generates neural modulation signals delivered to a nervous system component through one or more neuromodulators to control neurological state and prevent neurological signs and symptoms. Such treatment parameters may be derived from a neural response to previously delivered neural modulation signals sensed by one or more sensors, each configured to sense a particular characteristic indicative of a neurological or psychiatric condition.
US09113799B2 Radiation imaging apparatus and imaging method using radiation
There is provided a panoramic imaging apparatus which serves as a radiation imaging apparatus. The panoramic imaging apparatus includes an X-ray tube radiating an X-ray as a radiation, a detector outputting digital-quantity frame data corresponding to an incident X-ray, and moving means moving the pair of X-ray tube and the detector relatively to an object. The apparatus further includes means for acquiring the frame data from the detector during movement of the X-ray tube and the detector, and means for optimally focusing a portion being imaged of the object using the acquired data and producing a three-dimensional optimally focused image in which the real size and shape of the portion being imaged are reflected.
US09113798B2 Method and apparatus for veterinary CT scans
A substantially X-ray transparent animal restraint enclosure having an open base structure and a lid which is configured to substantially close the base structure. The lid is movable from a closed position to an open position to permit the introduction of an animal into the base structure. The base structure has an open-ended slot which is partially obstructed when the lid is closed. The base structure also has an aperture which is not obstructed by the lid. A veterinary CT scan apparatus includes a CT scan gantry or sensor ring, a CT scan table, and a substantially X-ray transparent animal restraint enclosure. A method of performing a CT scan on an animal in a CT scan apparatus having a patient target position is achieved by placing the animal in substantially X-ray transparent enclosure; placing the enclosure in the patient target position for the CT scan; and conducting the CT scan.
US09113793B2 Pulse wave sensor
Among the technical characteristics disclosed in this specification, the pulse wave sensor with one of the technical characteristic includes a construction to detect the pulse wave at a wrist (i.e., a construction to measure the pulse wave to be worn at the wrist). To be more concrete, the pulse wave sensor includes a measurement unit to measure the pulse wave, a power source unit to supply power to the measurement unit, a cable to connect between the measurement unit and the power source unit electrically, and a armlet type housing to contain the measurement unit, the power source unit, and the cable.
US09113792B2 Method and apparatus for forming X-ray mammogram
An X-ray imaging method and apparatus are provided for forming an X-ray image having reduced noise and showing a clear boundary of a lesion region. The X-ray imaging method includes performing a first main shot which irradiates an object in a compressed state by using X-rays at least once to obtain a single two-dimensional image, performing a second main shot which irradiates the object by using X-rays at different positions to obtain a plurality of two-dimensional images, and forming a two-dimensional final image by removing a lesion region having a unclear boundary from each of the plurality of two-dimensional images and substituting a lesion region of the single two-dimensional image into an area which corresponds to the removed lesion region.
US09113786B2 Devices, systems and methods for identifying potentially dangerous oncoming cars
A device, a system, and/or a method are provided for monitoring the eye behavior of drivers of oncoming cars. A camera mounted to a car mirror may monitor the eyes of oncoming drivers. An eye recognition analyzer may recognize nystagmus symptoms exhibited by the oncoming drivers. A machine may recognize the license plate information of the oncoming cars. The license plate numbers, as well as other identifying features of the oncoming cars, may be displayed on a head-up display of a car. A driver of the car may be otherwise notified by an alarm and/or warning about the possibility of a dangerous, oncoming car. An emitter located on the car may emit signals to other nearby networked cars in order to warn their drivers about the dangerous oncoming car. Information regarding the dangerous oncoming car may be displayed on the head-up displays of the other nearby networked cars.
US09113783B2 Flexible tube for medical instrument and medical instrument
A flexible tube for medical instrument includes tubular bodies, one of the tubular bodies relatively turnably connected to an adjacent one of the tubular bodies by a hinge structure. Each of the tubular bodies includes a pivotal section provided at a connecting-directionally first end edge forming the hinge structure, a turning support section provided at a connecting-directionally second end edge and supporting the pivotal section of the one of tubular bodies connected to the adjacent one of tubular bodies, a projection which is provided at either one of the first and second end edges, and is projected in the connecting direction from a position different from the position of the pivotal section or the turning support section, and a recess provided at the other of the first and second end edges and engaged with the projection of the one of tubular bodies connected to the adjacent one of tubular bodies.
US09113779B2 Image processing apparatus, image processing method, and program recording medium
An image processing apparatus includes an analysis unit configured to obtain information regarding an order of display of a plurality of layers from a cross-sectional image, and a display control unit configured to perform control such that methods for displaying the plurality of layers are sequentially changed and the plurality of layers are displayed on a display unit on the basis of the information regarding the order of display.
US09113778B2 Predicting near-term deterioration of hospital patients
Methods, systems, and computer storage media are provided for predicting a probability of acute deterioration for a specific patient. Various discrete measurements are taken regarding the patient's current health. Those measurements are used to determine a PPOD score, which is displayed for clinicians.
US09113774B2 Electronic thermometer and body temperature measurement method
An electronic thermometer includes first and second body surface temperature measurement portions to measure first and second values of a measurement object, first and second reference temperature measurement portions to measure values at each position having a predetermined thermal resistance relative to a measurement position of the first and second values, and having a first and second thermal resistance relative to the open air, third temperature measurement portion to measure a third value at a different position from the previous values, correction portion to correct the obtained values; and core body temperature calculation portion to calculate a value of the object using the obtained values.
US09113771B2 Cleaning system with attachable dispenser
A cleaning system includes a cleaning implement having a handle and an attachable fluid dispenser that can be secured to the handle of the cleaning implement. A support can be located on the handle, and the support has a section that extends away from the handle. The attachable dispenser includes a container connected to a body having a dispensing mechanism for delivering a fluid from the container and out of a discharge orifice of the body. The container has an inwardly directed recess dimensioned to matingly engage the section of the support when the attachable dispenser is attached to the handle.
US09113770B2 Cleaning device
A cleaning device (1) comprising a handle (2). The handle (2) is formed by a tube (3), which defines a liquid reservoir (4). A nozzle unit (5) is arranged at one end of the handle and a hand grip (6) is arranged at the other end of the handle. An operating device (7) for the nozzle unit (5) is associated with the hand grip (6) The operating device (7) is connected to the nozzle unit (5) by an operative connection (8) arranged in the tube (3).
US09113767B1 Window cleaning tool
A window cleaning tool provides both a scrubbing pad and squeegees. Multiple squeegee blades are mounted to a squeegee roller. A wiper bar is disposed adjacent the squeegee roller to clean the squeegee blades. A trigger is mounted adjacent a handle and connected to the squeegee roller such that movement of the trigger rotates the squeegee roller and simultaneously cleans dirty squeegee blades while presenting a clean squeegee blade for use.
US09113766B2 Method and apparatus for dishwasher with common heating element for multiple treating chambers
A dishwasher with multiple, physically separate treating chambers includes a liquid supply system supplying liquid to the treating chambers, an air supply system supplying air to the treating chambers, and a common heating element for simultaneously heating the air and liquid. A method for operating a dishwasher including simultaneously heating the air and the liquid with a common heating element is also provided.
US09113764B2 Vacuum filter bag mounting apparatus and methods of operation
The present invention is an improved vacuum filter or collection bag assembly for vacuum cleaners and other appliances, particularly upright vacuum cleaners. The filter bag assembly includes a filter bag with a sealing and locking rim assembly which mates with a section of the vacuum filter housing, so as to ensure proper seating and minimization of dust and dirt escaping from the filter bag during vacuum operation. The assembly may also include a gasket ring for additional sealing.
US09113763B2 Vacuum extension
An attachment for an upright vacuum cleaner which can be pivoted from a first position for cleaning a wide area to a position providing a nozzle which is capable of reaching narrow areas to permit cleaning in corners and around obstacles.
US09113758B1 Toilet cleaning brush device
A toilet cleaning brush device facilitates cleaning of a toilet by providing an extendable brush section includes a handle having a top end and a bottom end. A head is coupled to the bottom end of the handle. Each of a plurality of bristles is coupled to and extends outwardly from the head. An extendable section of the head is selectively extendable, from a main section of the head wherein the extendable section extends outwardly from the main section parallel to a longitudinal axis of the handle.
US09113756B2 Portable and biodegradable toilet such as for use by field personnel
A portable toilet constructed of a sanitary and biodegradable material assembled from a multi-paneled and foldable blank material into a body having a bottom, interconnecting sides and a top with a centrally defined aperture. The blank construction includes a pair of mating flaps within which are configured carrying handle apertures. A fold over lid exhibits three interconnected edges and an inner facing engagement tab for maintaining the lid in a closed position relative to the top and upper side edges of the body. A reinforcing insert is positioned within the open interior of the body during its three dimensional assembly and includes pairs of spaced apart, length extending and opposite edge interconnecting and strength inducing panels which are arrayed in vertically extending fashion and which, in use, protect against collapse of the body.
US09113755B2 Method and device for treatment of human excrement
A method for treatment of human excrement comprises the following steps: (1) providing a chamber (5) having a top opening through which excrement enters the chamber (5); (2) allowing solid excrement to form a layer on a porous plate (6) inside the chamber (5) by gravity wherein excrement is stored firstly at front storing region (13) and secondly at rear storing region (14), and allowing urine to fall down into the urine storing region (15) through perforations in the porous plate (6); (3) ventilating the interior of chamber (5) by a ventilation system, and providing an indirect heat source (7) inside the chamber (5). A device for treatment of human excrement comprises the chamber (5), the porous plate (6) with the front storing region (13) and the rear storing region (14), the urine storing region (15), the ventilation system and the indirect heat source (7).
US09113750B2 System for producing beverages
The present disclosure relates to a system for producing beverages or other food products which includes, generally and broadly, controllably dispensing water from the system for use in brewing. Water is introduced to a heated water reservoir (20) heating and subsequent use in a process such as brewing. A thermal expansion system (86) is provided to accommodate water which expands from the reservoir (20) as a result of the heating process. One form of thermal expansion system (86) may include a venturi device (88) which allows the accumulation of water which expands during the heating process and then returns the water to the flow of water during a brew cycle.
US09113746B2 Device for preparing a drink extracted from a capsule
The invention relates to a device for preparing a drink extracted from a capsule, including a capsule mounting and a capsule housing, inside of which at least one water inlet and a capsule-boring means are arranged, characterized in that said housing is sized so as to at least partially deform any capsule, consisting of a material that is deformable when placed in contact with hot water and placed in the housing, such that the capsule is retained in the housing after the contact thereof with the hot water.
US09113744B2 Capsule containing a dose of substance for making a drink, and a method for making a drink using the capsule
A capsule for making a drink comprises a cup-shaped main body (6) forming a housing chamber (7) containing a powdered or liquid substance (2). The main body (6) comprises a bottom wall (8) and a lateral wall (9) which has a lower portion (10) connected to the bottom wall (8) and an upper portion (11) delimiting an opening which is closed by a cover element (17). The capsule also comprises lengthening means (18) which, following an increase in the capsule (1) internal pressure, allow a movement away from the cover element (17) by the lower portion (10) of the lateral wall (9) and the bottom wall (8) connected to it. Also claimed is a method which comprises feeding water and/or steam into the capsule (1) to increase the capsule (1) internal pressure and so cause the movement of the lower portion (10) of the lateral wall (9) and the bottom wall (8) away from the cover element (17) until the bottom wall (8) is torn against external piercing means, thus allowing the drink to be supplied through the bottom wall (8).
US09113742B2 Beverage brewing platform
The present disclosure recites a beverage brewing system having beverage brewing machine and a collapsible brew basket. The beverage brewing machine has a housing with a water reservoir and an electrical heating element for heating water. An output system is provided for dispensing the heated water to the brew basket. The brew basket is a collapsible brew basket, positionable between a collapsed position and an expanded portion. The brew basket included and upper portion and a lower portion, the lower portion slidingly engaging the upper portion between the collapsed and the exposed position.
US09113741B2 Apparatus and method for cooking portioned food pieces in batches
An apparatus and method for cooking portioned food pieces in batches are disclosed. The apparatus comprises a cooking chamber for cooking the food pieces and a water removal chamber, beneath the cooking chamber, having a wastewater outlet, for discharging hot wastewater from the water removal chamber. A heating chamber is arranged around the cooking chamber, with a heating unit being arranged between the heating chamber and cooking chamber. A fresh water tank is connected to the heating chamber in order to fill the heating chamber with fresh water, and the heating chamber is connected to the cooking chamber to fill the cooking chamber with preheated fresh water. A wastewater tank is connected to the wastewater outlet. The wastewater tank and the fresh water tank are configured such that the fresh water in the fresh water tank is preheated by the hot wastewater in the wastewater tank.
US09113738B2 Device and system for assisting hosiery donning
A system device for use in assisting in the donning of hosiery by elderly or handicapped persons. The device comprises at least two releasably grasping elements configured to separately releasable grasp the sides of an article of hosiery adjacent an open end thereof. The grasping elements are solidly affixed to respective elongated pulling elements of a length to enable a donner of the article of hosiery to position the article of hosiery over a foot with minimal reaching, bending or stretching of arms, legs or body and wherein the pulling elements are configured to enable the donner to pull the article of hosiery onto the foot into a donning position.
US09113737B2 Method and apparatus for clothes hanger device
An apparatus including a hook portion, a first device, a second device, including a first section, and a third device. The second device may be biased in a closed state wherein the first section of the second device, the first device, and the third device are aligned with each other. The first section of the second device, the first device, and the third device may be aligned in the closed state such that a closed loop of an item can be slid along the first section of the second device, the first device, and the third device. While in the closed state, the closed loop cannot be removed from the apparatus without breaking the apparatus. The second device can be placed in an open state by applying a force, which does not break the apparatus; and in the open state, the closed loop can be removed from the first section.
US09113735B1 Post drink holder device
A post drink holder device securely holds multiple beverage containers on an existing post such as a on a boat dock. The device includes a base wall coupled to and extending downwardly from a lower surface of a panel defining a post receiver for receiving a post therein such that the panel is supported on the post. An upper wall is coupled to and extends upwardly from an upper surface of the panel defining a primary cup for receiving a beverage container. Each of a plurality of outer cups extends into the upper surface and through the panel for holding additional beverage containers.
US09113731B2 Memorabilia storage device
A device for storing and displaying documents, photographs, and memorabilia objects together. Covers are each rotatably connected to a spine and feature sides that rest upon or engage with each other to close. The device has a plurality of document pockets and a plurality of bound archival sheets. Within the device is a plurality of object compartments, each compartment having a transparent cover that selectively opens for placing and removing objects and selectively closes for safely displaying the objects. The device is included in a kit that further comprises at least one complementary storage box. The device is included a system that further comprises an electronic catalog for the photographs and objects stored therein.
US09113727B2 Strainer dispenser and method of use
A method of loading stacked strainers in a dispenser while minimizing strainer contamination is disclosed. The method includes providing a stack of strainers that is enclosed in a protective material to form a pod, placing the pod within a dispenser, and removing the protective material from the pod of strainers while the strainers are in the dispenser. The strainers dispensed from the thus loaded dispenser avoid being contamination during loading. The protective material may be perforated to facilitate removal from the stack, and include an extended portion to be grasped during removal from the dispenser.
US09113723B2 Bassinet for a playard
An improved bassinet frame for an infant playard comprising a plurality of structural members configured to nest within a playard top frame top and rest upon supports on corner members of the playard frame. The bassinet frame includes a pair of spaced-apart, parallel side members connected by a pair of perpendicularly aligned uplift preventing end members. The bassinet frame end members extend beneath playard frame end members when the bassinet frame is deployed for use such that the playard end frame members inhibit uplift of the bassinet frame. The side members each further include a joint positioned approximately midway along the respective lengths allowing the bassinet frame to be folded along an axis parallel to its width. Folding the bassinet frame retracts the end members from beneath the playard end frame members and allows the bassinet frame to be removed from the playard.
US09113715B2 Anchoring system for seat back
A seating system adapted for use in stadium, auditorium, and/or theater-type settings. The system utilizes seat back pins, support beams, and anchors for installing seat backs in series and without requiring custom components to account for variability in dimensions. A method for installing seat backs provides the installer with multiple degrees of freedom when adjusting the position of a seat back being installed, including lateral positioning and rotational orientation.
US09113714B2 Device for the movement of resting components of a sofa, a chair and the like
The present invention relates to a device for the movement of resting components of a sofa, an armchair or the likes, such as a headrest movable between a lowered position and a raised position, a back movable between a substantially erected configuration and a downwardly inclined configuration, a seat movable between a backward position and a forward position, and a footrest movable between a lowered, substantially vertical position and a raised position. Such a device comprises a telescopic member equipped with a movable portion controlled by a motor and able, jointly with further connection members, to place in reciprocal relation and to move said headrest, back, seat and footrest.
US09113701B2 Foldable table/chairs set
A foldable table/chairs set is disclosed. The foldable table/chairs set may include a foldable table surface; a chair set including a plurality of foldable chairs; and a supporting element that is used to conjugate with the table surface to form a table when the supporting element is fully extended, wherein when the supporting element is folded, a receiving space located at a lower portion of one side of the supporting element is created to receive said folded table surface and chairs therein.
US09113700B2 Toothbrush tracking system
A method of monitoring tooth brushing comprising: receiving a position signal from a position sensor (601) disposed on a toothbrush (21) comprising a handle and a head (22); receiving a force signal from a force sensor (602) disposed on the toothbrush (21); and calculating a position of the head of the toothbrush using the position signal in combination with the force signal.
US09113697B2 Ergonomic segmented pack
An anatomically segmented backpack has an upper back region, a lower back region, and a hip belt region. The upper back region includes a shoulder strap joined to a pack load carrying portion and a thorax harness. The thorax harness extends in two opposite directions under each shoulder blade of the user. The lower back region is coupled to the upper back region and a hip region. A slide mechanism is located in the pack load carrying portion of the upper and lower back region. A load-bearing element is disposed within the lower back region, for transferring a load from the upper back region to the user's hips. The hip region is joined to a front section of the pack by a load bearing hip belt that extends around the user.
US09113695B2 Adjustable wiper
A cosmetics unit, in particular a mascara unit, that includes a storage container for storing the cosmetic to be applied, an applicator which in its stowed position preferably dips into the cosmetic, and a wiper device which wipes off a portion of the cosmetic picked up by the applicator during dipping. The wiper device consists of several wipers that produce a different wiping action and through which the applicator can be passed alternatively.
US09113694B2 Method and systems for employing pigmented creme-to-powder for eyebrow make-up applications
The instant application provides methods and systems for applying color to eyebrows and skin at locations where an eyebrow should be. A crème-to-powder formulation is used to apply the color. The crème-to-powder formulation includes a crème-to-powder base and pigmentation to provide a final color suitable for application as eyebrow makeup. A liquid sealant may be used to seal in the color once applied. Various kits are disclosed that include a crème-to-powder formulation and applicators.
US09113685B2 Shoulder strap slippage prevention device and shoulder bag using same
A shoulder strap slippage prevention device not only wearable with simple actions, but alleviating an uncomfortable feeling of having one's body pressed; and a shoulder bag using it. The device includes a band-shaped prevention device body; a strap attachment part allowing one end of the device body to be attached to a shoulder strap of a shoulder bag; and a balance weight provided on the other end thereof. The strap attachment part is attached to the shoulder strap hung on a user's shoulder, and the device body is then placed around his/her neck such that the balance weight can hang off his/her other shoulder, causing a tensile force to be applied to the device body in a range from one shoulder to the other. The device can be worn with simple actions, preventing the shoulder strap from slipping off while alleviating an uncomfortable feeling of having the user's body pressed.
US09113684B1 Umbrella cover system
An umbrella cover system for covering an umbrella is provided. The umbrella has a center post. The umbrella cover system comprises a round cover having a first side, a second side, and an outer perimeter edge. An aperture is formed in the center of the cover with the aperture having a center point and the center point of the aperture being equidistant from every point of the perimeter edge. A fastening mechanism is positioned between the cover and the umbrella for releasably securing the cover to the umbrella. Upon positioning the first side of the cover against the umbrella with the center post of the umbrella extending through the aperture, the fastening means are activated to releasably secure the cover directly against the umbrella.
US09113680B2 Buckle
A buckle includes a pair of legs on a male member, and an engagement portion provided on an end of the legs that is to be engaged with an engaged portion of a female member in a form of a recessed groove, the engagement portion being detachably engaged with the engaged portion when the male member is inserted into the female member to a predetermined position. A guide for guiding the insertion of the male member provided between the legs of the male member. A hook-shaped movement restricting portion projecting in the direction for the pair of legs to face with each other is provided on an inner side of the legs. A deformation restricting portion projecting in a form of a flange toward the leg is provided to the guide. The movement restricting portion is in contact with the deformation restricting portion when the leg is outwardly deformed.
US09113678B2 Belt buckle
A belt buckle includes a male plate with a cylindrical pin extending transversely from a back side of said male plate. A female plate includes a cylindrical cavity which is partially enclosed by a first inwardly-extending flange and a second inwardly-extending flange. The female plate is adapted for coupling to a male plate when the buckle is in use. An elastic ring is fittingly disposed inside the partially enclosed cavity. A hollow of the elastic ring is adapted to fittingly receive the pin during use of the buckle. The hollow of the elastic ring has a polygonal-shaped wall, whereby the elastic ring is in contact with the pin at a plurality of contact points during use of the buckle to prevent the pin from getting loose when the buckle is in use.
US09113677B2 Belt buckle system
Disclosed is a belt buckle assembly with magnetically interchangeable faceplates. The faceplate attaches to a base plate by a magnetically active plate on both the base plate and the faceplate. The base plate is concealed by the faceplate when the belt buckle is assembled and in use. The user's belt is attached by a belt loop at one end of the base plate and a post on the back side of the base plate which protrudes through a hole in the belt end opposite the belt loop.
US09113672B2 Protective helmet
A protective helmet includes an outer shell and a controlled air dissipation (CAD) assembly installed within the outer shell. The CAD assembly includes an inner shell liner releaseably mounted to the outer shell, a primary bellows unit disposed between an outer surface of the inner shell liner and the inside surface of the outer shell, and a secondary bellows unit disposed between an inner surface of the inner shell liner and the head of a person wearing the protective helmet.
US09113669B1 Hair extension device and related methods of manufacture
A hair extension device is provided, the device comprising: a first strip of polyurethane having a first surface; a plurality of hair having opposing ends, the first ends are sewn together and attached to the first surface of the first panel, the second ends being freely movable; a second strip of polyurethane placed over the first ends of the plurality of hair and over the first panel and then heat sealed to form a panel; at least two apertures situated on opposing ends of the panel; and a string attached and secured to the apertures on the panels.
US09113652B2 Use of alternan as ingredient for certain foodstuffs
The invention is directed to the use of an alternan as an ingredient for acidic foodstuffs and to an acidic foodstuff comprising alternan as ingredient. The invention is also directed to the use of alternan as a heat stable ingredient in a foodstuff formulation, and to a foodstuff comprising alternan as ingredient, wherein the foodstuff was subjected to a heating step during its manufacture.
US09113650B2 Pectic enzyme treated pectin, method of producing the same and application thereof
A pectic enzyme treated pectin (PET-pectin) and a method of producing the same are disclosed. Citrus pectin solution is subjected to an enzymatic hydrolysis by using a mixed pectinase solution under an acidic condition, so as to obtain PET-pectin that is completely hydrolyzed. The PET-pectin has several biological functions, including stability of emulsification, anti-oxidation and inhibition of cancer cell growth, thereby being applied on food emulsion stabilizers, food antioxidants and compositions for inhibiting cancer cell growth and so on.
US09113648B2 Expandable carton
A package for holding a food product. The package comprises a carton comprising a plurality of panels that extend at least partially around an interior of the carton. The plurality of panels comprises at least two side panels. A tear feature extends at least partially across the plurality of panels for at least partially separating the carton into an upper portion and a lower portion. The package also comprises a liner disposed in the interior of the carton. The liner comprises an expandable region proximate to the tear feature of the carton.
US09113640B2 Coated shell eggs and method of making same
Coatings for shell eggs improve the strength and shatter resistance of processed eggs. The coatings include food grade natural resins such as shellac, mixtures of paraffin and beeswax, and food grade polymer emulsions such as polyvinyl acetate.
US09113637B2 Method and device for opening a carcass of a slaughtered animal
The present invention relates to a device and method for automatically processing a carcass of a slaughtered animal suspended from the hind legs. The automatically processing is driven by automatically controlled drive means for handling a slaughtering processing tool. Such slaughtering tools are a rotatable cutting blade (20) which is partially shielded and which shielding (21) is provided with a protruding guide pin (22). A further slaughtering tool is a cleaving blade (23) to split the pubic bone of the carcass. The cleaving blade is attached to the shield that partially covers the rotatable cutting blade.
US09113636B2 Seed-origin endophyte populations, compositions, and methods of use
This application relates to methods and materials for providing a benefit to a seed or seedling of an agricultural plant (e.g., an agricultural grass plant), or the agricultural plant derived from the seed or seedling. For example, this application provides purified bacterial populations that include novel seed-origin bacterial endophytes, and synthetic combinations of seeds and/or seedlings (e.g., cereal seeds and/or seedlings) with heterologous seed-derived bacterial endophytes.
US09113635B2 Methods of controlling the breeding behavior of butterflies
Methods of controlling the feeding and/or breeding behavior of a target insect are disclosed in which a host plant is provided a substantial distance from a plant of interest, chemical attractant that induces the target insect to lay eggs on the host plant is applied to the host plant, application of the chemical attractant to the host plant is repeated as required to induce residual target-insect populations to lay eggs on the host plant, and wherein the behavior is controlled when a substantial number of off-spring belonging to subsequent generations themselves mature and display a preference for laying eggs on the same type of host plant on which they were reared without further application of the chemical attractant is provided. Also disclosed are methods of deterring target insect feeding and breeding on plants of interest by applying toxic plant extract to the plants of interest.
US09113634B1 Panel assembly with interstitial copper
The present invention provides a panel assembly comprising a plurality of panels arranged in edge-to-edge format having joints between each pair of adjacent panels in the assembly. A copper-containing material, such as copper tape with adhesive backing, is provided in or near the joints in the assembly to render the joints less susceptible to bacterial contamination.
US09113631B2 1,3-diaryl-substituted heterocyclic pesticides
Disclosed are compounds of Formula 1, N-oxides, and salts thereof, wherein Q is and Z1, Z2, J1, J2, M, R1a, R1b, R2a, R2b, R2c, R2d and R14 are as defined in the disclosure. Also disclosed are compositions containing the compounds of Formula 1 and methods for controlling an invertebrate pest comprising contacting the invertebrate pest or its environment with a biologically effective amount of a compound or a composition of the invention.
US09113630B2 Method of controlling particular insect pests by applying anthranilamide compounds
This invention pertains to a method for controlling lepidopteran, homopteran, hemipteran, thysanopteran and coleopteran insect pests comprising contacting the insects or their environment with an arthropodicidally effective amount of a compound of Formula I, its N-oxide or an agriculturally suitable salt thereof wherein A and B and R1 through R8 are as defined in the disclosure. This invention further relates to a benzoxazinone compound of Formula 10 wherein R4 through R8 are as defined in the disclosure, useful for preparation of a compound of Formula I.
US09113628B2 Flowering stimulant composition using nitrobenzene
A flowering stimulant composition with Nitrobenzene for Agricultural and Horticultural flowering crops including Nitrobenzene as an Active ingredient, with Natural/Synthetic/Ionic (or) Non Ionic chemical surfactant and base with petro (or) Non petro solvent base. A typical example of 100 kg of the composition has 5 to 10 kgs. of Linear alkyl Benzene (Acid slurry), 1 to 2 kgs. of Sodium Hydroxide, 2 to 4 kgs. of Urea, 20 kg of Nitro Benzene, and Quantum sufficientum Filler & stabilizer. In the case of 100 kgs. of granular formulation, the composition has 75 kg or 80 kg of Roasted or unroasted Bentonite clay or silica quartz sand granules, 10 kg or 15 kg Nitrobenzene and Quantum sufficientum Coating agent and De-activating Chemicals.
US09113623B2 Methods and reagents for maintaining the viability of cancer cells in surgically removed tissue
A composition and method for generating reagents and the composition of these reagents for the stabilization and preservation of viability of cancer tissue which has been surgically excised and the suspension and/or termination of apoptosis (cell death) by significant modulation of cell metabolism by low molar concentrations of synergistic chemistries and hormonal growth enhancers while maintaining normal gene expression patterns of the surgically excised tissue.
US09113619B2 Versatile fishing strike indicator
A strike indicator has a hollow plastic spherical body with an opening through which water can flow into the body to weight the body for spin cast fishing and out of which water can be removed from the body for fly cast fishing. An easily manipulable thumbscrew can engage the opening to selectively block the opening while trapping a fishing line between a grommet on the thumbscrew and the spherical body to hold the strike indicator onto the fishing line.
US09113615B1 Microparticulate feeder for larval and juvenile fishes
A feeder for larval and juvenile fishes is capable of delivering a small (ca. 15 mg) precise dose of microparticulate (ca. 100 μm diameter) feed to selected locations, via pneumatic conveyance and control. A source of low-pressure dry gas is used to blow microparticulate feed through a manifold and into a selected one of a number of tubes. A terminal valve at the end of the tube is selectively activated to send the feed to a selected tank or pond. When not in use, the feeder is sealed, and the feed protected from moisture and ambient oxygen.
US09113614B1 Selective bird feeding apparatus
A selective bird feeding apparatus includes a housing having an access opening and door mounted positionable in a closed condition or in an open condition relative to the access opening. A drive mechanism is actuated to move the door to the closed condition or to the open condition. An actuator coupled to the drive mechanism includes a sensor which radiates energy to a position adjacent to the opening. The sensor receives reflected radiation reflected off of an object adjacent to the opening. A control circuit assigns an input value to the reflected radiation which is compared with a stored standard value. The actuator actuates the drive mechanism to move the door to the closed condition when the input value is outside a threshold limit of the standard value and actuates the drive mechanism to move the door to the open condition when the input value is within the threshold limit.
US09113613B2 Excrement depository assembly
An excrement depository assembly includes a tubular garment that may be positioned on a rear of an animal. A collection bag is removably coupled to the tubular garment so the collection bag may receive animal excrement.
US09113611B1 Animal release chute apparatus
A portable insert fits within an existing animal release chute to reduce the volume of the pen and thereby provide more confinement for a smaller animal, thereby providing greater safety for the animal. The position of the portable insert may be adjusted with respect to the animal release chute, and mechanisms. Adjustable spacing members maintain the entire insert in fixed position within the chute.
US09113608B2 Methods and compositions for selecting soybean plants resistant to phytophthora root rot
The present invention relates to the field of plant breeding and disease resistance. More specifically, the invention includes a method for breeding soybean plants containing quantitative trail loci (QTL) for resistance the Phytophthora root rot (PRR) caused by Phytophthora sojae. The invention further includes the use of molecular markers in the introgression of PRR resistance QTL into soybean plants.
US09113606B2 Growing system for hydroponics and/or aeroponics
A growing unit includes a tub that receives plants and a nutrient solution. The base of the tub includes a plurality of channels that drain toward a peripheral channel that extends around the periphery of the tub base. The peripheral channel drains to an aperture that forms a drain. Nutrient solution for irrigating the plants can be provided into the tub through the aperture and, after an appropriate time, can be drained from the tub through the aperture.
US09113603B2 Solar greenhouse structure
A solar greenhouse structure includes a plurality of supporting frames, a light-permitting roof supported by at least one supporting frame, and at least one solar panel disposed below the roof and near the bottom surface thereof. The instant disclosure uses thinner solar panels, where the supporting frames can be less rigid, in lowering the solar greenhouse cost.
US09113601B2 Structure for growing plants and a method of creating the structure
A structure to grow plants including a fence, a fabric attached to the fence to form a fence-fabric combination shaped as a pillar with an enclosed area, and a growing material filled in the enclosed area, and a method for creating a structure to grow plants by providing a fencing material and a fabric, attaching the fabric to the fencing material to form a fence-fabric combination, shaping the fence-fabric combination into a pillar with an enclosed area, and filling the enclosed area with a growing material.
US09113600B2 Environment-friendly water-saving plant pot structure
An environment-friendly water-saving plant pot includes a first pot body and a second pot body. The first pot body has a receiving space having an upward opening, and a water outlet hole formed in the receiving space. A protruding unit that has several reinforced ribs extends upwards from the periphery of the water outlet hole. The second pot body is disposed in the receiving space of the first pot body, and has a second receiving space having an upward opening. A plurality of through holes are circularly formed inside the second receiving space, and the second pot body extends from the bottom to form a cover that has a cover opening, and the opening of the cover opening and the protruding unit of the first pot body are spaced to form a gap.
US09113598B2 Grain cart having an inclined folding unloading auger conveyor with an askewed flow control spout
A grain cart has a wheel supported container with an inclined auger unloading conveyor having an inclined lower section positioned to receive grain from the container and an upper section supported for folding movement between a stored position adjacent the container and an inclined discharge position projecting upwardly, forwardly and laterally outwardly from the left side wall of the container. The upper section of the auger conveyor has a tubular housing with an askewed discharge spout supporting a pivotable flow control spout for tilting movement on a horizontal axis extending parallel to the left side wall of the container for discharge of grain laterally across an open top rectangular semi-trailer within a vertical plane perpendicular to the left side wall of the cart. The flow control spout is tilted by a remotely controlled actuator for filling and topping off the semi-trailer including all four corner portions of the trailer.
US09113593B2 Reduction in cutting inefficiency of a sickle cutter system
In a sickle cutting system, it has been found that a significant decrease in cutting inefficiency, which is measured by calculating the area of the cutting process where crop is not immediately cut but is instead pushed forwardly by engagement with a surface of the system, can be obtained by a combination of one or more of the features where the cutting stroke is reduced from the conventional length of 3.0 inches to a value of the order of 2.0 inches; the length of the cutting edge of each knife blade is increased to a length greater than 2.2 inches; the width at the rear of the ledger surface of each guard is increased to greater than 1.0 inches; and the front edge of the blade is formed with an apex to shed crop material to one or other side of the apex.
US09113592B2 Pick-up and delivery system and associated methods
A pick-up and delivery system including a pick-up assembly and a delivery assembly. The pick-up assembly includes a robotic arm, a pick-up device rotatably mounted on the robotic arm, and a first vacuum pressure supply port operably connected to the pick-up device. The delivery assembly includes an insertion device and a second vacuum pressure supply port. The insertion device may include an insertion member and a release assistance rod arranged inside the insertion member. The release assistance rod is moveable between an extended position and a retracted position. When the release assistance rod is in the extended position, a proximal end extends beyond an end of the insertion member. Further aspects are directed towards methods for grasping and releasing an object with a pick-up and delivery system.
US09113590B2 Methods, apparatus, and systems for determining in-season crop status in an agricultural crop and alerting users
A crop's status may be determined from analysis of information regarding the crop received from, for example, a user, an in-season data gathering source, a database, a data feed, an aerial sensor, a UAV, and/or a remote sensor via a communication network. The received data may be compared to, for example, a benchmark, a parameter, a previously determined crop status, and/or a baseline associated with the crop and the comparison may be scored. When the score exceeds a predetermined threshold, an alert may be generated and provided to a user via the communication network.
US09113588B2 Tracking system configured to determine a parameter for use in guiding an implement attached to a work machine
A tracking system employs at least one parameter for use in guiding an implement attached to a work machine, and includes a first global positioning system (GPS) receiver mounted on the work machine; a second GPS receiver mounted on the implement; and a controller configured to execute program instructions to determine the at least one parameter for use in guiding the implement, including: directing the work machine along a predetermined path; obtaining first position data from the first GPS receiver during the directing the work machine; obtaining second position data from the second GPS receiver during the directing the work machine; and determining the at least one parameter based on the first position data and the second position data.
US09113587B2 Gauge wheel and universal scraper for use with a conventional row planter assembly
A scraper for removing accumulated soil from the wheel of a planter, the scraper comprising a scraper arm having a first end and a second end, the first end being adapted for attachment to an axle mounted to the frame of the planter, and the second end for carrying a scraper blade, wherein the scraper arm is sized and shaped so that when the first end of the scraper arm is attached to the axle, the second end can present the scraper blade to the ground-contacting surface of the wheel so as to remove accumulated soil from the wheel.
US09119335B2 Method for manufacturing rigid-flexible multilayer wiring board and collective board
A method for manufacturing a rigid-flexible multilayer wiring board includes a step of forming a release layer such that the release layer covers a flexible portion forming region of a principal surface of a first thermoplastic resin sheet, a step of conducting surface modification on the principal surface of the first thermoplastic resin sheet while using the release layer as a mask, a step of laminating a second thermoplastic resin sheet such that the second thermoplastic resin sheet covers the release layer to form a laminate including the first and second thermoplastic resin sheets, a step of press-bonding the laminate, a step of forming a cut from at least either one of upper and lower surfaces of the laminate toward an outline of the release layer when seen in a plan view, and a step of removing a portion surrounded by the cut.
US09119334B2 Method for manufacturing circuit board having holes to increase resonant frequency of via stubs
A circuit board includes layers, a pair of vias filled with a conductive material and extending through the layers, first and second pairs of conductive signal paths, and holes extending at least partially through the layers and located between the pair of vias. The first pair of conductive paths is connected to the pair of vias within a first layer; the second pair of conductive paths is connected to the pair of vias within a second layer. The pair of vias has a pair of via stubs defined between the second layer and a bottom layer. A differential signal is to be transmitted between the first and second pairs of conductive signal paths via the pair of vias. The holes have a lower dielectric constant than the layers to increase a resonant frequency of the pair of via stubs beyond the frequency of the differential signal.
US09119326B2 System and methods for cooling electronic equipment
Systems and methods for cooling an inverter of a variable frequency drive that drives a compressor in a cooling system for electronic equipment are disclosed. The system includes a first fluid circuit that cools electronic equipment using a first fluid flowing therethrough and a second fluid circuit that free cools a second fluid flowing therethrough. The second fluid circuit cools the first fluid using the free-cooled second fluid. The system further includes a third fluid circuit that mechanically cools the second fluid using a third fluid flowing therethrough as a function of the wet bulb temperature of atmospheric air. The third fluid circuit includes at least one compressor compresses the third fluid and is driven by a motor coupled to the variable frequency drive. At least a portion of the first fluid flowing through the third fluid circuit is diverted to cool the inverter of the variable frequency drive.
US09119323B2 Electronic device
An electronic device comprises a case having an air ventilation hole and an opening, a heat source, a radiator disposed inside the case and in thermal contact with the heat source, and an air current generator. The radiator comprises a body having a first and second lateral sides, and a third lateral side disposed therebetween. A first air inlet is disposed on the first lateral side. An air outlet exposed by the opening is disposed on the second lateral side, and a second air inlet is disposed on the third lateral side. The body comprising fins and a geometrical middle side of the fins is between the first and second lateral sides. The second air inlet corresponding to the air ventilation hole is between the geometrical middle side and the first lateral side. An air exhausting hole of the air current generator faces the first air inlet.
US09119319B2 Wiring board, semiconductor device, and method for manufacturing wiring board
A wiring board includes a first insulating layer containing a thermosetting resin, a first wiring layer stacked on an upper surface of the first insulating layer, a second insulating layer stacked on the upper surface of the first insulating layer, a second wiring layer stacked on an upper surface of the second insulating layer, and a third insulating layer stacked on the upper surface of the second insulating layer. The second and third insulating layers contain a first photosensitive resin. An outer side surface of the second insulating layer is flush with an outer side surface of the first insulating layer. An outer side surface of the third insulating layer is located inside the outer side surface of the second insulating layer in a plan view. The upper surface of the second insulating layer connecting to the outer side surface thereof is exposed from the third insulating layer.
US09119317B2 Method of folding flexible substrate in-situ using fold-assisting frame
A method for manufacturing devices built on flexible substrates employs an in-situ, fold-assisting device frame. The fold-assisting frame conforms to a portion of the interior volume within the package, such that one or more pivoting members of the frame may be used as an in-situ, bending jig, in place of conventional bending equipment, to support and fold the planar flexible substrate into a desired three-dimensional configuration. The frame may accommodate placement of an unfolded or partially folded flexible circuit board so that a fold-assisting feature, such as a hinge, incorporated into the frame attaches to the flexible circuit board and closes around a pivot point to gently bend the circuit board into place, thus creating a three-dimensional folded circuit. Such a fixture and method facilitate packaging electronic devices in a compact form, with application to a wide range of mobile consumer electronics, including, for example, implantable medical devices.
US09119316B2 Case and display device
A case for supporting a foldable display panel includes a first main body located to correspond to a first area of the foldable display panel; a second main body located to adjoin the first main body and correspond to a second area of the foldable display panel, and folded in a direction of the first main body so that the second area of the foldable display panel faces the first area; and a mover, responsive to an elastic restitution force, located within at least the first main body to be supported by a rear surface of the foldable display panel, at least one of the first area and the second area of the foldable display panel being slidable in conjunction with the mover in a direction of at least one an end of the foldable display panel.
US09119310B2 Photosensitive conductive film, method for forming conductive film, method for forming conductive pattern, and conductive film substrate
A photosensitive conductive film 10 according to the invention includes a support film 1, a conductive layer 2 containing conductive fiber formed on the support film 1, and a photosensitive resin layer 3 formed on the conductive layer 2.
US09119306B2 Display panel integrating a driving circuit
A display panel includes a periphery area, an active display area adjacent to the periphery, a driving chip disposed out of the active display area for driving the active display area, and a plurality of wires electrically connecting the driving chip and the active display area. The width of at least one wire at a portion adjacent to the driving chip is smaller than the width of the at least one wire at the other portion adjacent to the active display area.
US09119301B2 Wiring substrate
A wiring substrate is provided with a substrate core including a first main surface, a second main surface, and a through hole. An electronic component is arranged in the through hole. A projection projects from a wall of the through hole toward a connection terminal of the electronic component. An insulator is filled between the wall of the through hole and the electronic component. A first insulation layer covers the electronic component and the first main surface. A second insulation layer covers the electronic component and the second main surface. The electronic component includes an electronic component body and the connection terminal formed on a side of the electronic component body. The connection terminal of the electronic component includes an engagement groove formed by the projection and extending along a direction in which the electronic component is fitted into the through hole.
US09119300B2 Motor control device
A motor control device includes a circuit board having a control circuit controlling electric power to be supplied to a motor, a base fixedly supporting the circuit board, a flexible printed circuit supplying electric power to the motor, a pin terminal disposed on the circuit board, being electrically connected with the control circuit, a dummy pin terminal disposed on the circuit board, being electrically free from the control circuit, a wiring pattern land disposed on the FPC, being electrically connected with the pin terminal, and a dummy wiring pattern land disposed on the FPC, being connected with the dummy pin terminal.
US09119297B2 Electronic component element housing package
An electronic component element housing package is produced by firing a ceramic substrate for housing an electronic component element and a metal layer for bonding to the ceramic substrate to form an electrical path, simultaneously in a reducing atmosphere. The ceramic substrate comprises alumina (Al2O3), a partially stabilized zirconia by forming solid solution with yttria (Y2O3) and a sintering agent. The sintering agent comprises magnesia (MgO), and at least 1 type selected from silica (SiO2), calcia (CaO), or manganese oxides (MnO, MnO2, Mn2O3, Mn3O4).
US09119296B2 Sealing element
The invention relates to a sealing element (1) for sealing between an electric line (2) and a housing (100). In order to provide a sealing element (1) for a plurality of different line diameters, provision is made according to the invention for the sealing element (1) to have an elastically expandable inner sleeve (5) which has, in an axial direction (X) of the sealing element (1), a passage opening (4) for the line (2) which has at least one inner sealing surface (6a, 6b) extending along its inner periphery (6), an outer sleeve (10) surrounding the inner sleeve (5), which outer sleeve has at least one outer sealing surface (11a, 11b) extending along its outer periphery (11), and comprises at least one compensation section (7a-d) which is designed to be compressible in a radial direction (Y, Z) of the sealing element (1) and has a yieldingness which is greater than the yieldingness of the outer sleeve (10).
US09119295B2 Display mounting techniques
The disclosed subject matter comprises a display retention bracket (DRB) that can be attached to, and can retain and horizontally mount, a display using display retention components, without using fasteners, for insertion of the display in a bezel that does not support horizontal mounting; and includes: a cable retention component that enables the cable to withstand a specified pull-out force to maintain connection of the cable to the display; a cable guide to maintain cable wires in a desired position in relation to other components; alignment pins to align the DRB and display with a bezel housing; non-symmetrical tabs to ensure the display is oriented correctly; offset columns that desirably offset loads on the display when an adapter plate is applied onto the DRB and display, and fastened to the bezel to secure the display; and a ground clip to extend the ground path from the bezel to the display.
US09119294B2 Electromagnetic interference shielding structure including carbon nanotube or nanofiber films
A composite material for electromagnetic interference shielding is provided. The composite material comprises a stack including at least two electrically conductive nanoscale fiber films, which are spaced apart from one another by at least one insulating gap positioned between the at least two nanoscale fiber films. The stack is effective to provide a substantial multiple internal reflection effect. An electromagnetic interference shielded apparatus and a method for shielding an electrical circuit from electromagnetic interference is provided.
US09119292B2 Shielded electrical cable in twinaxial configuration
A shielded electrical cable includes one or more conductor sets extending along a length of the cable and being spaced apart from each other along a width of the cable. Each conductor set has one or more conductors having a size no greater than 24 AWG and each conductor set has an insertion loss of less than about −20 dB/meter over a frequency range of 0 to 20 GHz. First and second shielding films are disposed on opposite sides of the cable, the first and second films including cover portions and pinched portions arranged such that, in transverse cross section, the cover portions of the first and second films in combination substantially surround each conductor set, and the pinched portions of the first and second films in combination form pinched portions of the cable on each side of each conductor.
US09119291B2 Injection molded control panel with in-molded decorated plastic film that includes an internal connector
Provided are systems and methods for a control assembly including: a first film that is in-molded that includes decorative graphics, a front surface and a rear surface; and a second film molded to the rear surface of the first film having a printed circuit that includes sensors, control circuits and interconnects and a front and rear surface; and an internal connector.
US09119287B2 Display device and electronic apparatus
A hook portion projecting outward is provided on a side plate portion of an upper case. An upper case includes a support surface that supports a display surface of a display panel. A lower case includes a sidewall that faces an outer circumferential side of the side plate portion. The sidewall has an opening into which the hook portion is inserted. The hook portion is inserted in the opening in a state in which no load is applied in a plane parallel to the support surface, and is elastically deformable toward center of the support surface up to a position not overlapping the opening when a portion inserted in the opening is pressed from outside of the support surface toward the center of the support surface.
US09119284B2 Plasma generator and method for producing radical, and cleaning and purifying apparatus and small-sized electrical appliance using the same
A plasma generator 1 includes a first electrode 12 provided in a gas storage section 5, and a second electrode 13 provided in such a manner that at least a portion coupled with the first electrode 12 comes into contact with a liquid 17 in a liquid storage section 4. Electrical discharge is caused between the first electrode 12 and the second electrode 13 so that plasma is produced in a gas region in the liquid 17 in the liquid storage section 4, and hydroxyl radical is produced from water contained in the liquid 17 and oxygen contained in the gas.
US09119282B2 Plasma processing apparatus and plasma processing method
In an inductively coupled plasma processing apparatus, an RF antenna 54 provided on a dielectric window 52 is split into an inner coil 58, an intermediate coil 60, and an outer coil 62 in a radial direction. When traveling along each of the coils from a high frequency power supply 72 to a ground potential member via a RF power supply line 68, the RF antenna 54, and an earth line 70, a direction passing through the inner coil 58 and the outer coil 62 is a counterclockwise direction, whereas a direction passing through the intermediate coil 60 is a clockwise direction. Further, a variable intermediate capacitor 86 and a variable outer capacitor 88 are electrically connected in series with the intermediate coil 60 and the outer coil 62, respectively, between the first and second nodes NA and NB.
US09119281B2 Charged particle accelerator systems including beam dose and energy compensation and methods therefor
A method of operating an acceleration system comprises injecting charged particles into an RF accelerator, providing RF power to the accelerator, and accelerating the injected charged particles. The accelerated charged particles may impact a target to generate radiation. The RF power is based, at least in part, on past performance of the system, to compensate, at least partially, for dose and/or energy instability. A controller may provide a compensated control voltage (“CCV”) to an electric power source based on the past performance, to provide compensated electric power to the RF source. A decreasing CCV, such as an exponentially decreasing CCV, may be provided to the electric power source during beam on time periods. The CCV to be provided may be increased, such as exponentially increased toward a maximum value, during beam off time periods. The controller may be configured by a compensation circuit and/or software. Systems are also described.
US09119278B2 System, method and apparatus for aligning and synchronizing target material for optimum extreme ultraviolet light output
An extreme ultraviolet light system and method includes a drive laser, a chamber including an extreme ultraviolet light collector and a target material dispenser including an adjustable target material outlet capable of outputting multiple portions of target material along a target material path. Also included: a drive laser steering device, a detection system including at least one detector and a controller coupled to the target material dispenser, the detector system and the drive laser steering device. The controller includes logic for detecting a location of the first portion of target material from the first light reflected from the first portion of target material and logic for adjusting the target material dispenser outlet to output a subsequent portion of target material to a waist of the focused drive laser. A system and a method for optimizing an extreme ultraviolet light output is also disclosed.
US09119275B2 Ballast with temperature compensation
A ballast for driving a gas discharge lamp includes an inverter configured to generate a lamp supply voltage signal, and a voltage regulator coupled to the inverter and configured to generate a regulation signal. The regulation signal is used by the inverter to maintain the lamp voltage signal at a substantially constant voltage. A thermistor circuit is coupled between the lamp supply voltage signal and the voltage regulator and configured to detect a temperature of the ballast. The lamp supply voltage signal is varied by the regulation signal in accordance with the detected temperature of the ballast.
US09119274B2 Resonant converter control
The invention relates to methods of controlling operation of a resonant power converter and to controllers configured to operate according to such methods. Embodiments disclosed include a method of controlling a power output of a resonant power converter comprising first and second switches (S1, S2) connected in series between a pair of supply voltage lines, a resonant circuit connected to a node between the first and second switches and to an output connectable to an output electrical load, the resonant circuit comprising an inductor and a capacitor, the method comprising: closing the first switch (S1) to start a first conduction interval; setting a first voltage level (902); setting a first time period; and opening the first switch (S1) to end the first conduction interval when a voltage (901) across the capacitor crosses the first voltage level (902) and when a time period from closing the first switch exceeds the first time period (904).
US09119270B2 Solid state lighting device and driver configured for failure detection and recovery
Systems and method for detecting failure in solid state light sources and recovering from the failure are provided. A light engine including a controller circuit and strings of solid state light sources emits light in response to drive current provided by a driver circuit. The controller circuit monitors an output voltage of the driver circuit, and detects a failure of one of the solid state light sources. The failure is associated with a change in the output voltage of the driver circuit. The controller circuit then transmits a first signal to the driver circuit in response to detecting a failure, and the driver circuit is configured to decrease the drive current in response to the first signal.
US09119269B2 Lumen depreciation management
A monitoring system is configured to manage lumen depreciation in a lighting fixture and includes an optic housing, a light source with a light-emitting diode (LED), a processor, and a memory device. The memory device stores instructions that cause the monitoring system to measure elapsed time during which the LED light source emits the light and, based on the elapsed time, determine a current level of the emitted light. In response to the current level changing from an acceptable level to an unacceptable level, an alert is provided to show that the emitted light has reached the unacceptable level. A reset input is received to remove the alert for a predetermined period of time. Changes in status of the LED light source are indicated.
US09119267B2 Apparatus and method for controlling fault in lighting network
Disclosed herein is an apparatus and method for controlling a fault in a lighting network. The apparatus includes power selection units respectively provided in a plurality of lighting units connected to one another over a network, each power selection unit being configured to compare a reference voltage with an output voltage sensed from power supply signals input from power supply units respectively provided in a lighting unit, located ahead of a faulty lighting unit, and the faulty lighting unit if a fault occurs in the lighting unit, and to select supply power to be supplied to the faulty lighting unit. Lighting control units control driving of the faulty lighting unit using the selected supply power.
US09119264B2 Lighting system
A lighting system mounted on any surface, such as on an article of clothing. The light system comprises at least one illuminating object. The illuminating object is connected to a power source and a processing unit. The processing unit is capable of analyzing the rhythm of music and commanding the illuminating object to flash based on the music. The lighting system can also communicate wirelessly with other electronic devices via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, radio frequency, and voice command. The lighting effects of the lighting systems on different articles of clothing can be coordinated to form a special light show such as a light symphony. The lighting system can also be coupled with software application and flash based on the user command and the validity of the user command. The light system can also be installed in a vehicle and coupled with stereo component and other component to signify the road condition.
US09119263B2 Multi-zone light controller
The present invention relates to a light controller (102) configured to control a lighting system (100) for emitting light, comprising an image sensor (202) configured to capture an image of an activity area, and a control unit (200) configured to received the image, to detecting movement within the activity area, and to provide an activation signal for switching on a light source (104, 106, 108, 110) of the lighting system (100), wherein the control unit (200) is further configured to provide a deactivation signal for switching off the light source (104, 106, 108, 110) after a computed time period if no movement is detected within the activity area, the computed time period being based on a computed distance between a predetermined position within the activity area and a position of the latest detected movement within the activity area. The present invention provides advantages in relation to e.g. optimized “on time” of the light source of the lighting system thereby providing an improvement in relation to the total energy consumption of the lighting system.
US09119261B2 Display brightness control temporal response
Methods and devices are provided for controlling the brightness of a display for an electronic device based on ambient light conditions. In one embodiment, an electronic device may employ one or more brightness adjustment profiles that define response rates for changing brightness levels based on ambient light levels. The response rates may vary depending on the magnitude and/or direction of change in the ambient light levels. In certain embodiments, the response rates may be designed to approximate the physical response of the human vision system. Further, in certain embodiments, noise reduction techniques may be employed by adjusting the response rates based on the magnitude of the change in the ambient light level and/or based on whether the display is operating at steady state or executing a brightness adjustment.
US09119260B2 Illumination system comprising a plurality of LEDs
An illumination system (100)comprises: an LED system (120) comprising two or more LED groups (21, 22, 23, 24; 451, 452) and current distribution means (140), wherein each LED group includes one or more individual LEDs, the LED system (120) having two input terminals (121, 122); a single controllable driver (130) for providing working power to the LED system (120), the driver having two output terminals (131, 132) coupled to the two input terminals (121, 122) of the LED system (120), respectively; a control device (2) for controlling the driver (130); wherein the control device (2) is designed for controlling the driver output voltage (Vi); and wherein the current distribution means are responsive to the input voltage (Vi) at the input terminals of the LED system for drawing current from the driver and distributing the current among the different LED groups in dependence on the input voltage level.
US09119259B2 AMOLED pixel unit driving circuit and method, AMOLED pixel unit and display apparatus
The present disclosure discloses an AMOLED pixel unit driving circuit and method, an AMOLED pixel unit and a display apparatus, the AMOLED pixel unit driving circuit includes: a switching unit with a first input terminal connected to a current source for supplying a charging current and a second input terminal connected to an OLED; a storage capacitor with a first terminal connected to an output terminal of the switching unit and a second terminal connected to a low level; a driving TFT with a gate electrode connected to the first terminal of the storage capacitor and a source electrode connected to the low level; and a current dividing unit with a first terminal connected to the low level. The embodiments of the present disclosure enable a relatively large scale to exist between the charging current Idata and the current loled flowing through the OLED.
US09119254B2 Light emitting device power supply circuit with dimming function and control circuit thereof
The present invention provides a light emitting device power supply circuit with dimming function and a control circuit thereof. The light emitting device power supply circuit includes: a phase-cut dimming circuit, a rectifier circuit, a transformer circuit, and a control circuit. The transformer circuit includes an auxiliary winding, which is coupled to a primary winding, for generating a bleeder current to keep a conduction current higher than a holding current and prevent the phase-cut dimming circuit from turning OFF when the phase-cut dimming circuit operates in conductive phase. The control circuit includes a waveform analysis circuit, a bleeder current control circuit, and a bleeder current source. The bleeder current source includes a linear regulator or a variable current source. The bleeder current source controls the bleeder current so that the bleeder current is generated in a continuous and non-switching manner within the conductive phase.
US09119251B2 LED current control apparatus
According to an embodiment, an LED current control apparatus controls conduction of a switching transistor which is connected to a primary winding of a flyback convertor. The LED current control apparatus includes a pseudo sine wave generation unit, a synchronous control unit, a first comparator, a switch control unit, a crest value correction unit, and a pulse monitor control unit.
US09119243B2 Lighting system with radar detection
In a lighting system (SLS), a radar arrangement (RU1) transmits a signal (CW). The radar arrangement (RU) detects a spectral power distribution of a received signal (RF) susceptible of comprising a reflection of the signal that has been transmitted. Lighting is controlled as a function of the spectral power distribution that has been detected.
US09119240B2 Lighting control system
Lighting control system includes lighting fixture having identification information, controller for setting lighting condition for dimming level and color temperature of illumination light of lighting fixture, and dimmer for outputting dimming signal to lighting fixture. Lighting fixture includes dimmer for modulating illumination light to superpose thereon information signal containing identification information and lighting information of lighting fixture. Controller includes wireless communication unit for outputting control signal to dimmer, display unit with touch panel, for displaying image of lighting fixture, and visible light receiver for reading identification information and lighting information from information signal superposed on illumination light. Display unit is configured to associate identification information read through visible light receiver with image of lighting fixture to display image so as to reflect lighting information.
US09119239B2 Gestural control dimmer switch
A gestural control dimmer switch for controlling the illumination level of a light using hand movements comprises a dimmer panel in operative communication with a light, the dimmer panel having a plurality of hand position sensors corresponding to a spectrum of illumination levels of the light, wherein when a hand is detected by the hand position sensors the illumination level of the light is set until the hand reaches a dimmer trigger position when the switch enters a dimming mode during which the illumination level is adjusted to the illumination level corresponding to the hand position sensor the presence of the hand is detected until a release condition is satisfied.
US09119232B2 Electrical heating device
An electrical heating device comprises a housing which encloses a circulation chamber through which a medium can flow, and into which heating ribs protrude. Each of the heating ribs has a U-shaped recess which open into a uniform connecting chamber, which is separated from the circulation chamber by a partition wall provided in the region of the open ends of the U-shaped recesses, and which accommodates at least one PTC heating element that abuts oppositely situated inner sides of the U-shaped recess in heat-conducting contact. A housing cover bears a pump and forms a pump channel. The pump channel opens into an inlet opening of the pump, which is formed by a pump housing.
US09119229B2 Electric heater
An electric heater is provided that includes at least two groups of heating elements which change their temperature by electrical power consumption, comprising a control unit with two switch arrangements such that the first switch arrangement includes at least two power switches for switching the at least two groups of heating elements in a High-side connection and such that the second power switch arrangement includes at least two switches for switching the at least two groups of heating elements in a Low-side connection.
US09119226B2 Architecture for content and host-centric information dissemination in delay-tolerant MANETs
An architecture to enable delay tolerant content-centric and host-centric communications in MANETs comprised of smart phones is disclosed. This architecture allows cross network communications and Internet sharing, assuming that at least one of the smart phones has internet connectivity. The architecture includes a routing mechanism for content-centric communications, as well as routing algorithms for host-centric communications. In one embodiment, a combination of OLSR and a modified variant of PRoPHET is used to create preferred routing paths for content-centric communication. In another embodiment, variations of store and forward, such as binary spray and wait, are used for host-centric communications. These communications between mobile devices utilize wireless communications, such as IEEE802.11.
US09119223B2 Two antennas in close proximity with signal isolation
Included is a mobile node (MN) comprising a first antenna configured to communicate with a wireless network, a second antenna configured to communicate with a wireless network, a first data line coupled to the first antenna, a second data line coupled to the second antenna, and a common ground trace coupled to the first data line and the second data line, wherein the first antenna and the second antenna are not directly connected to the common ground.
US09119219B2 Bandwidth control method, apparatus and system
Embodiments of the present invention provide a bandwidth control method, apparatus, and system. The method includes: receiving an access request message sent by a user equipment; obtaining, according to the access request message, a group identity of a group to which the user equipment belongs and group-aggregate maximum bit rate parameter information of the group to which the user equipment belongs, so that a bandwidth control device performs bandwidth control on a user equipment in the group according to the group identity and the group-aggregate maximum bit rate parameter information.
US09119217B2 Interference management in a wireless communication system using frequency selective transmission
Interference that occurs during wireless communication may be managed by determination of a selected transmit waveform exhibiting a preferred channel quality. A method, apparatus and medium of communication determine a transmit waveform from among a plurality of allocated waveforms of an unplanned access point to an associated access terminal. The transmit waveform exhibiting a highest channel quality with an associated access terminal over others of the plurality of allocated waveforms is determined. Signals are transmitted according to the transmit waveform from the unplanned access point to the associated access terminal.
US09119215B2 Method and apparatus for enhanced packet traffic arbitration
A method and apparatus for enhanced packet traffic arbitration comprising conveying one or more of the following: a priority status, an operational status or a frequency status relating to a user device, wherein the conveying uses at least one scrambling code with good autocorrelation and cross-correlation properties and shares a single line shared multi-drop data bus; and commencing a slot timing for use by the user device.
US09119212B2 Inter-cell interference cancellation framework
Communication techniques enable efficient communication to an UE (User Equipment) that is subject to a dominant interference signal that is transmitted by a different base station. Disclosed interference cancellation techniques, both UE-centric and network-centric, are suitable to this situation. These techniques are particularly advantageous when undesirable or difficult to introduce changes in the physical (PHY) and medium access control (MAC) layers at the existing base stations. UE-centric framework refers to an approach largely implemented by UEs to include pico or femto cells. Network-centric framework closed-loop coordination between base stations and UEs mitigate interference thereby improving network performance. In particular, an interfering base-station can help a “victim” UE by adjusting downlink pilot and control power and to adjust traffic data rates responsive to information that the “victim” UEs provide, including information about the interfering link and performance of the cancellation itself sent over the air or using the backhaul.
US09119211B2 RF chain management in a carrier aggregation capable wireless communication device
A method for managing radio frequency (RF) chains in a carrier aggregation capable wireless communication device is provided. The method can include a wireless communication device using a first RF chain associated with a first component carrier and a second RF chain associated with a second component carrier to support a connection to a network. The method can further include the wireless communication device formatting a deactivation message configured to trigger deactivation of the second component carrier. The method can additionally include the wireless communication device sending the deactivation message to the network to trigger deactivation of the second component carrier. The method can also include the wireless communication device discontinuing usage of the second RF chain to support the connection to the network via the second component carrier after sending the deactivation message.
US09119209B2 Apparatus and method for channel-state-information pilot design for an advanced wireless network
A base station and mobile station communicate using a multiple input multiple output (MIMO) communication. The base station includes a two dimensional (2D) antenna array comprising a number N of antenna elements configured in a 2D grid. The 2D antenna array is configured to communicate with at least one subscriber station. The base station also includes a controller configured to transmit N channel-state-information reference-signal (CSI-RS) antenna ports (APs) associated with each of the N antenna elements. The subscriber station includes an antenna array configured to communicate with at least one base station. The subscriber station also includes processing circuitry configured receives physical downlink shared channels (PDSCHs) from a 2D active antenna array at the at least one base station. The 2D active antenna array includes a number N antenna elements. The processing circuitry further configured to estimate a full CSI associated with the N antenna elements.
US09119200B2 Access point communication based on transmission of multiple physical layer identifiers
Information is communicated between access points to cause a recipient access point to invoke an action. In some aspects, a mapping is defined between: 1) sets of physical layer identifiers and/or associated time offsets; and 2) different types of information. The mapping information is provided to access points in a wireless communication system such that an access point can use this scheme to communicate specified types of information to another access point. Based on the mapping, an access point that receives a set of physical layer identifiers from another access point is able to determine the type of information being communicated. The recipient access point may then invoke a specific action based on the type of information that was communicated.
US09119197B2 System and method for delay scheduling
In one embodiment, a method for delay scheduling includes determining whether a communications controller has information for a machine type communication (MTC) device and determining a first subframe to transmit a downlink control information (DCI) message on when the communications controller has information for the MTC device. The method also includes transmitting, by the communications controller to the MTC device, the first subframe including the DCI message and the information in accordance with the first subframe.
US09119196B2 Base station, terminal, transmission method, and reception method
Provided are a base station, whereby the erroneous detection of control information can be reduced, thereby preventing the degradation of the system throughput. A base station (100) maps a downstream allocation control information unit, which is addressed to a terminal (200), to a first resource region, which can be used for any of a downstream control channel region and a downstream data channel region, or to a second resource region, which can be used only for the downstream control channel, so as to transmit the downstream allocation control information unit. In the base station (100), a control unit (102) establishes a scale of the PDCCH region, and a transmission region establishing unit (131) establishes, on the basis of a scale value established by the control unit (102), a mapping region to which the DCI is mapped within the R-PDCCH region and the PDCCH region.
US09119195B2 System and method for sharing a control channel for carrier aggregation
A method for processing a control channel at a user agent (UA) to identify at least one of an uplink and a downlink resource allocated by a resource grant within a multi-carrier communication system wherein resource grants are specified by control channel element (CCE) subset candidates wherein the carriers used for data transmission and reception are configured carriers, the method comprising the steps of receiving activation signals specifying active and deactivated carriers from among the configured carriers, for active carriers (i) identifying a number of CCE subset candidates to decode and (ii) decoding up to the identified number of CCE subset candidates in an attempt to identify the resource grant; and for deactivated carriers, ignoring CCE subset candidates associated with the deactivated carriers.
US09119187B2 Communication system, transmitting device, receiving device, and processor
An encoding unit encodes an information bit sequence. An IDFT unit generates a spectrum from the signals of the information bit sequence. A clipping unit generates, when re-transmitting the information bit sequence, a transmission spectrum that differs from that of the previous transmission. An OFDM signal generation unit transmits the transmission spectrum.
US09119182B2 Methods and apparatus for expression use during D2D communications in a LTE based WWAN
A method, an apparatus, and a computer program product for wireless communication are provided in connection with use of expressions with D2D communications in a LTE based WWAN. In one example, a MME is equipped to receive a request from a first UE to establish a communication link with a second UE based on a first expression pair, determine whether the UEs can use a first context associated with previously used expression pair, and provide information associated with the first context to the first UE. In another example, a UE is equipped to send a connection request, to its MME, to establish a communication link with a second UE based on a first expression pair, receive at least a portion of information associated with a first context between the UEs based on a previously used expression pair, and establish the communication link with the second UE using the received information.
US09119175B2 Method and apparatus for handling MBMS dynamic scheduling information
A method for handling MBMS dynamic scheduling information in a network terminal of a wireless communication system is disclosed. The method includes steps of generating a MAC Control Element for carrying an MBMS dynamic scheduling information, the MAC Control Element containing at least one fields, each corresponding to one MBMS service transmitted on an MCH, for indicating an ending point of sub-frames used by the corresponding MBMS services in a scheduling period of the MCH; and setting a first field to a specific value to indicate there is no sub-frame scheduled for the corresponding MBMS service in the scheduling period when the corresponding MBMS service has no data for transmission in the scheduling period.
US09119172B2 Fair instantaneous conflict resolution among N periodic contenders
The various embodiments include methods for managing how a multi-SIM-multi-standby (MSMS) communication device that is accessing an arbitrary combination of multiple telephony networks processes paging collisions. The embodiment methods promote the control of the paging block rates for two or more subscriptions, in which a subscription's paging block rate is the subscription's number of blocked pages during a certain time multiplied by the subscription's discontinuous reception cycle. In the various embodiments, an MSMS communication device may implement a fair paging conflict resolution algorithm to keep each subscription's paging block rate approximately equal over time.
US09119171B2 Apparatus and method for supporting location update registration process in machine to machine communication system
An apparatus and method for supporting a location update registration process used for an idle mode operation of a Mobile Station (MS) in a Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communication are provided. The method includes determining whether a system global location update registration timer is applied to the MS, when it is determined that the global location update registration timer is not applied, determining a timer for updating a location when the MS operates in an idle mode, and transmitting a message including the timer to the MS.
US09119168B2 Managing a location database for network-based positioning system
Methods, program products, and systems for managing a location database are described. A server computer can receive location information from location-aware mobile devices (e.g., GPS-enabled devices) located within a communication range of access points of a wireless communications network. The server computer can calculate average geographic locations using the received locations for each access point. Based on the average geographic locations, the server computer can assign the access points to cells of a geographic grid. The server computer can filter the access points in each cell based on popularity, stability, longevity, and freshness of the access point and the received data. When a second mobile device connects to an access point in a cell, the server computer can transmit locations of the access points in the cell and in neighboring cells to the second mobile device such that a location of the second mobile device can be estimated.
US09119160B2 Optimization of NFC tag for different battery levels
A mobile communication device has a processor, a radio, a near field communication (NFC) device, a battery, and memory for storing data. The power level of the battery is measured. When the measured power level is above a first predetermined level, power is provided to the radio to allow communication. Sufficient power is provided to operate the NFC device as a reader and a tag. When the measured power level of the battery falls below the first predetermined level, battery power to the radio is shut off. Sufficient power is maintained to the NFC device to allow it to operate only as a tag. Sufficient power is maintained to the memory to retain the data stored in the memory. When the measured power level of the battery falls below a second predetermined level, the NFC device is required to harvest all of its power from the field.
US09119155B2 Power management scheme for portable data collection devices utilizing location and position sensors
A data collection device (DCD) is placed in a first low power mode after the DCD has been in a first predetermined position, and placed in a second low power mode after a first predetermined period of time. In another embodiment the DCD includes a wireless telephone, and a proximity sensor which detects when the DCD is close to a user's face, wherein the telephone is automatically put in a handset mode when the DCD is close to a user's face, and automatically put in a speakerphone mode when the DCD is not close to a user's face.
US09119150B1 System and method for adaptive power control
Systems and methods for adaptive power control are provided. A minimum power level of a primary acoustic signal is estimated. The minimum power level may then be compared to at least one power threshold. Subsequently, a large power consuming system is controlled based on the comparison of the minimum power level to the power threshold.
US09119147B2 Method and device for realizing energy saving in communication system
A method for energy saving in communication system, where a base station enters idle state if no residence of user equipment is detected in a cell, comprises: receiving, by the base station in idle state, a response signal from user equipment after receiving a paging signal sent by the base station with a period N times a length of a radio frame; switching, by the base station, to active state. An energy saving base station and a microcell access gateway are also disclosed. Since the method is independent of whether a user equipment has been sent a signal to a macro network, application scope is enlarged. Since whether to enter active state is determined according to the feedback of user terminal, whether there is residence of user equipment in the microcell can be sensed more accurately, improving accuracy of state switching and reliability of smart energy saving of the microcell.
US09119145B2 Method and device for synchronization in wireless networks
A method and device are provided for synchronizing data transmission of multicasting/broadcasting services (MBS) by a plurality of Base Stations. Meanwhile, each of the Base Stations receives the MBS data to be transmitted and determines whether any of the MBS data has not been properly received. If so, the respective Base Station may initiate a process to recover the missing MBS data and/or to obtain information regarding the missing data to determine the duration of the time period that would have been required for transmitting the missing MBS. If the missing data has not been timely recovered, the respective Base Station determines a starting point and the duration of a silence period based on the information obtained, and refrains from transmitting signals along a communication channel allocated for transmission of MBS data, during that silence period.
US09119143B2 Method for routing data packets using an IP address based on geo position
Method of routing data over a network in which contact is made with a home network to determine the reported geo-position, using this geo-position to transmit data to the device over a path through a node in which the node reads the geo-position, accesses a list of possible recipients and their geo-positions, compares its location to the positions, selects a recipient based at least in part on the proximity of the recipient to the device, and transmits the data over the best path. Eventually, the device becomes the recipient. A geo-position may be transmitted as part of an IP address, or as geo-position data or XML tagged geo-position information contained in a data packet or IP addressed message or IP addressed voice calls (VoIP). The geo-position information can be generated from a GPS receiver. This method and/or IP address may be used in a method of doing business in which the geo-position is used to identify the source and location for delivery. This information may be incorporated into a purchase order or confirmation receipt.
US09119142B2 Device and method for delay optimization of end-to-end data packet transmissions in wireless networks
For reducing and homogenizing an end-to-end delay of data packet transmissions in a large-scale wireless mesh network, a device, a system and a method are provided for controlling data packet transmission in the wireless network, wherein transmission parameters of an intermediate node are adjusted based on a distance between the intermediate node and a sender node.
US09119141B2 Ubiquitous access to FEMTO—connected network
A system and method of enabling a mobile device to communicate with a local IP network host and an external IP network host using a femto cellular access point on a femto cellular access network. A local gateway is coupled to the femto cellular access network for receiving data packets transmitted on the femto cellular access network and for routing the data packets to one of a local IP network and an external IP network, based on a destination address associated with the data packets. The femto cellular access network includes an LTE network, an EVDO network connected to an EPC, or a WiMax 802.16e/m network connected to the EPC.
US09119137B1 Support of hierarchical network mobility for proxy mobile IP
A method includes, in response to a wireless terminal, transmitting a first binding update from an attachment point of the wireless terminal to a home agent. The method further includes selectively generating a trigger signal in response to the first binding update, and providing the trigger signal from the home agent to a proxy mobility agent. The method further includes, in response to the trigger signal, transmitting a second binding update to a home anchoring point, selecting an IP address, and transmitting a first binding acknowledgement including the IP address from the home anchoring point to the proxy mobility agent. The method further includes forwarding the IP address from the proxy mobility agent to the home agent and transmitting a second binding acknowledgement including the IP address to the attachment point. The method further includes assigning, by the attachment point, the IP address to the wireless terminal.
US09119132B2 Efficient system identification schemes for communication systems
Systems and methodologies are described that facilitate efficiently indicating parameter(s) associated with a base station utilizing synchronization signals in a wireless communication environment. For instance, relative locations of a PSC and a SSC in a radio frame can be a function of a parameter. Further, a PSC sequence utilized to generate PSCs can be selected based upon a parameter. Moreover, inclusion or exclusion of PSCs from a radio frame can be a function of a parameter. Additionally or alternatively, pseudo random sequence mappings (e.g., to cell IDs, tone locations) can be a function of a parameter. Example parameters can be whether the base station is part of a TDD or a FDD system, whether the radio frame employs FS1 or FS2, whether the base station is associated with a macro or a femto cell, or whether the base station is associated with a unicast or a multicast system.
US09119131B2 System and method for connecting, configuring and testing wireless devices and applications
A system, apparatus, and method are provided for connecting, configuring and testing wireless devices and applications. For example, one embodiment of wireless device for operation in a wireless network comprises a processor, a wireless module including a radio receiver and transmitter unit coupled to the processor, a graphical user interface (GUI) coupled to the processor, and a Connection Manager Module (CMM) including an Application Programming Interface (API) module, a Rules Engine Module, and a Rules Set Module, wherein the CMM manages a connection to a wireless network.
US09119130B2 Proactive link-estimation in reactive routing networks
In one embodiment, a node in a computer network may receive one or more reactive routing route requests (RREQs) originated by an originating node, and may then identify one or more links that provide routes to the originating node based on the RREQs. The node may then determine one or more particular links within the one or more links for which to perform proactive link-estimation, and then perform proactive link-estimation on the one or more particular links. Optionally, the node may also maintain a number of the particular links that were subject to proactive link-estimation for a period of time.
US09119126B2 Method for determining handover in wireless communication system and base station therefor
A handover decision is capable of lowering a handover failure rate of horizontal handover between a source base station and a target base station in a wireless communication system. After deciding a target base station to which the mobile terminal is to be handed over, a hysteresis value for determining a handover execution point is decided, and execution of the handover of the mobile terminal occurs when a difference between the received signal strength of a signal received from the target base station to the mobile terminal and the received signal strength of a signal received from the source base station to the mobile terminal is continuously maintained at the hysteresis value or above during a predetermined time.
US09119124B2 Method and system for communication implementation for user equipment
The disclosure provides a method and system for communication implementation for a user equipment, which include: a user equipment reports the state information of other sub-devices except the sub-device adopting Long Term Evolution (LTE) technology to the network (300); the network performs radio resource management according to the obtained state information (301). It can be seen from the method of the disclosure that the network, already knowing the state information of the user equipment, performs radio resource management. As for the sub-devices in the user equipment which are configured to adopt the LTE technology and as for other sub-devices adopting such technologies other than the LTE technology as WLAN technology, Bluetooth technology, and the like, the method achieves effective suppression of the in-device co-existence interference, thus improving the communication quality of the radio technologies in the user equipment and the communication experience of the users.
US09119116B2 Method and arrangement for supporting hand over of a mobile terminal
Network nodes in a source and a target communication system, and methods therein for supporting hand over to the target communication system, of a mobile terminal supporting Packet Switched-to-Circuit Switched, PS-to-CS, hand over. The method in the source communication system comprises, when requesting resources for hand over of a mobile terminal engaged in a conversational call to a target node in the target communication system, signaling a first request for PS resources to the target communication system, indicating a bearer B, used for the conversational call, and further signaling a second request for CS resources to the target communication system, indicating the bearer B. Thereby, the target communication system is enabled to decide whether a PS-to-CS HO or a PSHO of the bearer B should be performed.
US09119110B2 Request to send (RTS) and clear to send (CTS) for multichannel operations
Certain aspects of the present disclosure provide techniques and apparatus for signaling the bandwidth to be used for wireless communications using an RTS/CTS (Request to Send/Clear to Send) frame exchange, providing for bandwidths of at least 20 MHz, 40 MHz, 80 MHz, 160 MHz, or higher. This exchange of bandwidth information may be performed implicitly—by determining the channels in which the RTS/CTS frames are actually sent—or explicitly. In addition to this bandwidth information exchange, aspects of the present disclosure may also allow for Network Allocation Vector (NAV) protection in multiple channels. In this manner, the wireless medium may be reserved, and the transmission may be protected from hidden nodes.
US09119108B2 Method of anonymously reporting minimization of drive test measurements
The present invention provides a method of anonymously reporting minimization of drive test (MDT) measurements. According to the method, a mobility management entity (MME) obtains MDT data anonymity configuration which indicates whether MDT measurements are to be reported anonymously at a type allocation code (TAC) level; sends a TAC of a UE to a trace collection entity (TCE) if the MDT data anonymity configuration indicates MDT measurements are to be reported anonymously at the TAC level; sends an international mobile subscriber identification (IMSI) or an international mobile equipment identity and software version (IMEISV) of the UE to the TCE if the MDT data anonymity configuration indicates other information, e.g. Trace, is adopted for anonymously reporting MDT measurements. The present invention enables an MME to send different identities of a UE to the TCE according to different requirements for anonymity to implement anonymous reporting of MDT measurements.
US09119105B1 Managing uneven data flow in a wireless communication network
A first throughput value is determined comprising a first total amount of data transmitted in non-final data packets from a sending network element to a wireless device and a second total amount of data in final data packets transmitted to the wireless device during a time period. A second throughput value is determined comprising the first total amount of data transmitted in non-final data packets to the wireless device during the time period less an idle time of a wireless communication link between an access node and the wireless device during the time period and less a total time to deliver the final data packets. A difference of the first throughput value and the second throughput value is calculated, and a traffic management procedure is performed when the difference of the first throughput value and the second throughput value meets a throughput threshold.
US09119104B2 Mobile communication method and radio base station
Provided is a mobile communication method including a step A of transmitting, by a mobile station UE, “Measurement Report” including measurement results of radio qualities of neighboring cells #2 to #4 in a downlink to a radio base station eNB#1 that manages a cell #1 in which the mobile station UE is in communication, a step B of selecting, by the radio base station eNB#1, the cell #2 from among the neighboring cells #2 to #4 on the basis of the “Measurement Report”, and a step C of transmitting, by the radio base station eNB#1, “DL HI indication” indicating an influence of interference on the mobile station UE in a downlink direction being strong to a radio base station eNB#2 that manages the cell #2.
US09119101B2 Apparatus and method for periodic channel state reporting in a wireless network
Channel State Information (CSI) is reported by a subscriber station to a base station. The CSI is reported periodically for at least two physical uplink control channels (PUCCH). In case of a collision between a report for a first PUCCH and a report for the second PUCCH, each of the report types is partitioned into one of a number of classes, which include: a first class for rank indicator related report types and wideband (WB) W1 report types; a second class for WB report types or WB channel quality indicator report types; and a third class for subband related report types or W1 report types. A priority rule assigns a priority to each of the classes. The CSI feedback reports are transmitted according to the priority rule such that the report type included in a higher class is transmitted and the report type included in the lower class are dropped.
US09119099B2 Wireless network polling and data warehousing
Methods and systems are provided to collect and update data on client devices connected to WiFi access points is provided. An inventory of WiFi cable modems and WiFi access points coupled to the WiFi cabled modems within a specific network is periodically collected. Internet Protocol (IP) addresses of WiFi cable modems and WiFi access points coupled to the WiFi cabled modems are periodically updated. Traps are periodically received from the WiFi access points. The traps are parsed to collect an inventory of client devices wirelessly connected to the WiFi access points and a time at which a client device connected to the WiFi access point. The WiFi access points are periodically polled to collect data on client devices, the data including a period of time that a client device has been connected to a WiFi access point and a physical location of the client device.
US09119098B2 Assessing performance and quality of a mobile communication service
A call quality monitoring system allows a user of a mobile device to report on call quality or otherwise provide information relating to the quality of a wireless communication experience. The call quality monitoring system may allow the mobile device user to establish or accept a call placed on the wireless communication network. The call quality monitoring system may provide at least partially-automated user-feedback process for the user to specify information about the quality of the call from a device from which the call was placed or from a device located at or near a location of the call. The call quality monitoring system may collect information provided by the user in association with specifying information about the quality of the call.
US09119094B2 Method for communicating in a network, radio stations and a system therefor
A method for communicating in a network between a primary station and at least one secondary station on a downlink control channel, wherein the primary station transmits an indication related to a resource allocated to one of the secondary stations in accordance with a semi persistent schedule, wherein at least two messages, which include at least part of the indication, are transmitted in one subframe.
US09119090B2 Multi-carrier communication systems employing variable symbol rates and number of carriers
A multi-carrier communication system such as an OFDM or DMT system has nodes which are allowed to dynamically change their receive and transmit symbol rates, and the number of carriers within their signals. Changing of the symbol rate is done by changing the clocking frequency of the nodes' iFFT and FFT processors, as well as their serializers and deserializers. The nodes have several ways of dynamically changing the number of earners used. The selection of symbol rate and number of earners can be optimized for a given channel based on explicit channel measurements, a priori knowledge of the channel, or past experience. Provision is made for accommodating legacy nodes that may have constraints in symbol rate or the number of carriers they can support. The receiver can determine the correct symbol rate and number of earners through a priori knowledge, a first exchange of packets in a base mode that all nodes can understand, or an indication in the header of the data packet which is transmitted in a base mode of operation that all nodes can understand.
US09119087B2 Systems and methods for hybrid wireless content delivery
A method comprising transmitting a request, by a mobile device, indicating one or more content items; determining a location for the mobile device, by a processor; establishing a connection with a transmission medium, based at least in part on the indicated one or more content items, if the indicated one or more content items is not on the mobile device, wherein the transmission medium includes a digital radio tower, a long range radio tower and a wireless access point; and activating the indicated one or more content items, if the indicated one or more content items is on the mobile device.
US09119086B1 Evaluating 3G and voice over long term evolution voice quality
Systems and methods for evaluating cellular voice call quality are disclosed. In some implementations, training data points are received. Each data point includes a call quality value and values of key performance indicators (KPIs) related to call quality. For each KPI, a linear relationship, having a goodness-of-fit value, between the KPI and the call quality value is determined using the multiple data points. Compulsory KPIs are selected based on the goodness-of-fit values. The training data points are separated into clusters based on the compulsory KPI values and the quality values. For each cluster, a mathematical relationship for calculating the call quality within the cluster is determined based on the one or more compulsory KPIs. A module is generated for predicting the call quality value by combining the determined mathematical relationships.
US09119085B2 Method and server for collecting radio fingerprint positioning data
The present invention relates to a method and a positioning server in a radio access network for collecting radio fingerprint positioning data records from different nodes. The data records comprise geographical positions and radio network communication parameters and are stored and grouped in clusters in the positioning server. A geometrical shape representing a geographical area based on the network communication parameters in the collected positioning data records in the cluster is computed. When a notification about changed network configuration parameters for a radio cell is received, known positioning servers simply erase all positioning data records related to that radio cell. This results in the unavailability of still valid positioning data. The present invention overcomes this problem by selectively erase positioning data records in the positioning server only when the configuration parameters have changed beyond a predefined value range.
US09119084B2 Method and base station for coordinating cell interference
Embodiments of the present invention disclose a method and a base station for coordinating cell interference. The method includes: receiving each backhaul signal transmitted by each cooperative base station, where the backhaul signal is determined by the cooperative base station according to strength of a signal received from a served user and strength of a signal received by a serving base station from an interfering user in the cooperative base station; and combining, at different stages of baseband processing and according to a type of each backhaul signal, a backhaul signal of a corresponding type and a user signal received from each user. An embodiment of the present invention further provides a base station. According to the embodiments of the present invention, backhaul transmission capacity is maximally utilized, backhaul transmission efficiency is improved, and relatively high performance is obtained.
US09119083B2 Master antenna controller application and device
A Master Antenna Controller System comprises a handheld wireless device and an AISG equipment controller. The handheld wireless device may comprise an Android OS or iOS based smartphone or tablet that includes Wi-Fi capabilities communications capabilities. The equipment controller may provide full RET control based on the AISG 1.1 and 2.0 standards and communicate with the handheld wireless device via a Wi-Fi server. The combination may be configured to provide extensive, screen-guided, intuitive RET diagnostics functionality. The RET diagnostics functionality may include measurements of voltage, current, and AISG protocol commands. The equipment controller itself may also include multiple different pre-defined tests (e.g. test one actuator, test one RET cable, test AISG signal from TMA) and also some standard electrical tests, e.g. measuring voltage, current etc. Additional higher-level functions may be provided on an Application on the handheld wireless device and communicated to the equipment controller wirelessly or by USB connection.
US09119079B2 System and method to avoid interference with radar systems
A gateway device includes an input port for receiving Internet signals, a single RF module, a memory and a processor. The memory has computer executable instructions stored therein, wherein execution of the computer executable instructions by the processor causes the processor to retrieve a channel monitoring time from the memory. The execution of the computer executable instructions further causes the processor to monitor selected channels and develop and store in the memory a value of a confidence level for each channel. Each channel is monitored for a predetermined period of time between transmissions of data and the confidence level associated with a channel indicates the probability that frequencies associated with such channel are used by a radar system.
US09119077B2 Wireless network security
A method includes identifying a suspect node of a network. The method also includes initiating formation of a sub-network of the network by identifying neighbor nodes of the suspect node and sending an invitation message to a first neighbor node to invite the first neighbor node to the sub-network. The invitation message is encrypted using a first encryption key associated with the first neighbor node. The invitation message is not sent to a second node that is identified as a neighbor node only by the suspect node. The sub-network is configured to enable first communications between members of the sub-network. The first communications are communicated in a manner that is secured against access by the suspect node. Subsequent to formation of the sub-network, second communications between the suspect node and a device of the network are routed to or through at least one of the members of the sub-network.
US09119076B1 System and method for authentication using a mobile communication device
The invention is a system and method for registering and authenticating a user using a mobile communication device, such as a mobile phone. An authentication server has access to a stored list of authorized mobile phone numbers. Each authorized mobile phone number is associated with a string of text or numeric characters. The server provides a OTP when the user calls or sends a SMS message request from the authorized mobile phone to the server. The verbal or SMS request must contain the stored string, which the server will match against the stored list in order to confirm that the mobile phone is authorized. Once a OTP is provided to the authorized mobile phone, it must be used within a predetermined time limit, or the OTP will expire. The OTP will also be discarded once the server is notified that the OTP has been used. Further, the server will ignore a request for an additional OTP if a previously-provided OTP has not expired or been discarded, or if the server is in the process of generating an OTP for the authorized mobile phone.
US09119075B2 Communication system, base station, and countermeasure method against cyber attack
A communication system according to the present invention includes: a mobile terminal; a base station; an operation/maintenance server; and a gateway that has a DPI function that detects whether or not uplink data received from the mobile terminal is illegal traffic. If the base station detects that an amount of the traffic of uplink data exceeds a threshold, the base station transmits an alarm, that denotes that the amount of the traffic of uplink data exceeds the threshold, to the operation/maintenance server. If the operation/maintenance server receives alarm from the base station, the operation/maintenance server transmits to the gateway an activation command that causes the gateway to activate the DPI function.
US09119074B2 Uplink downlink resource partitions in access point design
A method, an apparatus, and a computer program product for wireless communication are provided in which information indicating a partitioning between uplink and downlink resources is received, and communication with an access point to determine at least one of whether a downlink resource will be used for uplink or whether an uplink resource will be used for downlink is performed. Accordingly, a synchronous network may be provided where partitioning of uplink-downlink resources may be dynamically selected, which is more efficient than a synchronous network where uplink-downlink resource partitioning is global and semi-static.
US09119072B2 Method and apparatus to authenticate a personal device to access an enterprise network
In an embodiment, a device includes a processor to initialize a first wireless communication path with a computation device and initialize a second wireless communication path with a secure network, receive a first request for identification data from the secure network via the second wireless communication path to enable access to the secure network, and automatically pass the received request data to the computation device via the first wireless communication path. The processor is further to receive the identification data from the computation device responsive to the request, provide the received identification data to the secure network via the second wireless communication path, and receive session key(s) at the device from the secure network that enables the device to access the secure network. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US09119070B2 Method and system for detecting unauthorized wireless devices
An approach is provided for detecting unauthorized wireless devices in a network. A platform retrieves an identifier of a device from a log of devices connected to a network, determines whether the device is a wireless device by applying a plurality of criteria to the identifier, retrieving a list of wireless devices authorized to connect to the network if the device is determined to be a wireless device, and compares the identifier with the list to determine whether the device is authorized to connect to the network.
US09119067B2 Embodiments of a system and method for securely managing multiple user handles across multiple data processing devices
A system and method for are described for securely linking a phone number and user identification code in a directory database. A computer-implemented method comprising: receiving a first request from a first user device to register with a first service, the request identifying a phone number of the user device and including a fingerprint code uniquely identifying the first user device; registering the phone number in a directory service; receiving a second request from the first user device to register with a second service, the request including a user identification code which is not a phone number and the fingerprint code; registering the user identification code in the directory service; detecting that the first request and second request are from the same mobile device using the fingerprint code; and responsively linking the phone number and the user identification code in the directory database.
US09119066B2 Method and arrangement for position-dependent configuration of a mobile appliance
An access element and method for controlling access of a network element are provided. A plurality of network elements which are connected to a connection of an access element and at least one second network element is connected to the access element via a first network element. The first network element is authenticated at the access element. Another operation of authenticating the first network element at the access element is initiated by the first network element. An authentication request which is transmitted by the access element and is received at the first network element is forwarded to the second network element. The second network element responds to the authentication request with a response message and the response message is forwarded to the access element via the first network element.
US09119064B2 Method and apparatus for providing broadcast channel encryption to enhance cellular network security
A method, computer-readable storage device and apparatus for encrypting a broadcast message of a base station are disclosed. For example, the method selects an encryption key for the broadcast message and encrypts the broadcast message using the encryption key to create an encrypted broadcast message. The method then transmits an identifier of the encryption key and transmits the encrypted broadcast message over a broadcast channel. A method for decrypting a broadcast message that is encrypted is also disclosed.
US09119059B2 Method of configuring modules for identifying users of a telecommunication network
A method of configuring modules for identifying users of a telecommunication network able to cover a service area cut into a plurality of geographical sub areas, each identification module including an identification code stored in the identification module, the identification code including: —an operator identifier; —a user identification number; the method including assigning at least one operator identifier to each geographical sub area, the operator identifiers of two contiguous geographical sub areas being different and at least two non-contiguous geographical sub areas having an identical operator identifier.
US09119058B2 Network servers, systems, and methods for multiple personas on a mobile device
Network servers, systems, and methods are disclosed which relate to providing a plurality of user identities or personas on a single mobile device. The mobile device has a unique address to communicate with entities on the network. The mobile device is further associated with a plurality of telephone numbers. The usage of each telephone number may be billed to a separate account. Each telephone number is associated with a plurality of personas, and each persona has a corresponding visual interface on the mobile device and a corresponding set of rules. The relationship between personas, telephone numbers, and associated rules is stored on an application server on the network. The application server routes incoming connections to a specific persona on the mobile device based on the plurality of rules. The rules can be edited by a user of the mobile device via an interface or another device connected to the network.
US09119057B2 Location-aware emergency broadcast receiver
Disclosed is an emergency broadcast receiver. The receiver comprises an alert device, a tuner adapted to demodulate a baseband signal from a radio frequency signal, a signal decoder adapted to extract digital data from the demodulated baseband signal, a location device adapted to provide location data representing a location of the emergency broadcast receiver; and an embedded controller. The embedded controller is adapted to detect a trigger signal in the extracted digital data, determine whether location information encoded in the detected trigger signal corresponds with the location data; and activate, based on the determination, the alert device.
US09119052B2 Content sharing for mobile devices
Aspects of the subject matter described herein relate to content sharing for mobile devices. In aspects, images that are created using mobile devices may be automatically uploaded to one or more targets. In addition, images created on the one or more targets may be automatically downloaded to the mobile device based on one or more criteria. A service facilitates transfer of images in both directions and includes a pluggable architecture in which forwarders for new targets may be added.
US09119051B2 Apparatus and methods for selecting services of mobile network operators
A system that incorporates teachings of the subject disclosure may include, for example, a method for detecting, by a first device including a least one processor and a first Universal Integrated Circuit Card (UICC), a second device having a second UICC, detecting, by the first device, that the second UICC is unprovisioned, selecting, by the first device, one of a plurality of selectable options, where the selection identifies a first network operator selected from a plurality of network operators, receiving, by the first device, first credential information of the first network operator, and transmitting, by the first device, to the second device the first credential information for enabling the second device to facilitate establishment of communication services with network equipment of the first network operator according to the first credential information. Other embodiments are disclosed.
US09119046B2 Connection attempt notification
A method for notifying a user of a mobile terminal of one or more missed connection attempt in a mobile communication network, wherein at least one unsuccessful connection attempt is detected in a network element. Information on at least one unsuccessful connection attempt is at least temporarily stored in the network element. The information from at least one connection attempt is retrieved in the network element and a predetermined notification message including information on at least one missed connection attempt is created. The notification message is delivered in the network. Additionally, a network element for implementing the method is described.
US09119045B2 Wireless delivery of telelocator alphanumeric protocol (TAP) messages
A conversion device may receive a first message in a Telelocator Alphanumeric Protocol (TAP) format. The first message may include information that identifies a user device as an intended recipient of the first message. The first message may not be transmissible over a wireless connection. The conversion device may convert the first message into a second message in a first format capable of being transmitted over the wireless connection. The second message may include information that identifies the user device. The conversion device may provide the second message, using the wireless connection, to a messaging device. The wireless message may cause the messaging device to convert the second message into a third message in a second format that is capable of being delivered to the identified user device. The wireless message may further cause the messaging device to provide the third message to the user device.
US09119035B2 Location-based power management for virtual desktop environments
In one embodiment, an illustrative technique determines when an end-user is within a specified proximity of a client device configured to provide an interface to a virtual machine. In response to the end-user being within the specified proximity of the client device, the technique may then allocate data center resources for the virtual machine.
US09119032B2 User activity tracking system and device
In one embodiment, a computing device receives from a mobile device sensor signals which indicate motion associated with activities of a user of the mobile device. The computing device determines a number of activity types that correspond to at least a portion of the received sensor signals. The computing device determines a number of activity periods of the user, each activity period corresponding to a likely activity type, by analyzing the sensor signals against each of the activity types, and calculating a probability of each of the activity types. The computing device determines whether two or more of the determined activity periods should be combined into a single period, based on a heuristics-type analysis based on a length of time for each of the two or more activity periods. The activity periods are sent to the mobile device.
US09119029B2 Finding friends near a friend
A system for finding friends near a friend, including a memory, housed within a mobile device, for storing a contact list including records for a plurality of friends, each record comprising a name of a friend and geographic coordinates of a location of the friend, and a locator for receiving as input the name of a designated friend in the contact list, and for generating as output a list of at least one proximal friend, each proximal friend including the name of a friend, other than the designated friend, whose location is located close to the designated friend's location.
US09119028B2 Method and apparatus for supporting location services via a Home Node B (HNB)
Techniques for supporting location services for a home Node B (HNB) and its user equipments (UEs) are disclosed. In an aspect, location services may be supported for a UE by having an HNB inter-work between user plane and control plane location solutions. In one design, the HNB receives a request for a location service for the UE and communicates (i) with a location server via the user plane location solution and (ii) with the UE via the control plane location solution to support the location service for the UE. The HNB inter-works between the user plane and control plane location solutions. In another aspect, a location server may be used to support assisted GNSS (A-GNSS) for HNBs and UEs. In one design, an HNB exchanges PCAP messages with the location server via an HNB GW and exchanges RRC messages with a UE to support a location service for the UE.
US09119025B1 Method and apparatus for maintaining a wireless local area network connection during a Bluetooth inquiry phase or a Bluetooth paging phase
In response to determining that a Bluetooth inquiry phase or a Bluetooth paging phase is beginning, a power save (PS) mode signal is sent from a first device to a second device via a wireless local area network (WLAN) communication link, wherein the PS mode signal indicates that the first device is in a WLAN PS mode. A PS poll signal is sent from the first device to the second device via the WLAN communication link in a gap between Bluetooth inquiry phase message transmissions during the Bluetooth inquiry phase or between Bluetooth paging phase message transmissions during the Bluetooth paging phase.
US09119021B2 Radio bearers for machine type communication
A wireless communication method for machine type communication (MTC) where a base station defines a cell for wireless communication of the base station with devices within the cell via a downlink from the base station and via an uplink to the base station using one or more radio bearers; and a plurality of MTC devices are in wireless communication with the base station. The plurality of MTC devices share a radio bearer on at least one of the downlink by taking turns to receive data from the base station according to a predetermined schedule; or the uplink by taking turns to transmit data to the base station according to a predetermined schedule and the base station records each MTC device as a member of a group and assigns to each MTC device a first respective timing based on information which distinguishes the MTC device within the group.
US09119020B2 Method and apparatus for discovering wireless devices
Wireless discovery is the process in which a service or application is located by a wireless station on a network, usually after the station has established a connection with the network. Wireless pre-association refers to the process of describing an application or service by its hardware/software interoperability requirements and/or a unique identifier prior to a connection being established between two or more wireless stations. A method performs wireless discovery between two or more wireless stations by communicating a data string between a wireless station and another wireless station, prior to a connection having been established between the wireless station and another wireless station, the data string including interoperability information necessary for a service or an application to run on a wireless station receiving the data string.
US09119011B2 Upmixing object based audio
In some embodiments, a method for rendering an object based audio program indicative of a trajectory of an audio source, including by generating speaker feeds for driving loudspeakers to emit sound intended to be perceived as emitting from the source, but with the source having a different trajectory than that indicated by the program. In other embodiments, a method for modifying (upmixing) an object based audio program indicative of a trajectory of an audio object within a subspace of a full volume, to determine a modified program indicative of a modified trajectory of the object such that at least a portion of the modified trajectory is outside the subspace. Other aspects include a system configured to perform, and a computer readable medium which stores code for implementing, any embodiment of the inventive method.
US09119009B1 Transmitting audio control data to a hearing aid
A computing device can detect an event associated with an alert sound, and responsive to detecting the event, identify the alert sound associated with the detected event. The alert sound includes one or more control tones that are configured to communicate occurrence of the event to a hearing aid device within audio range of the computing device. The computing device outputs the alert sound via a speaker of the computing device, such that a hearing aid device can detect the one or more control tones and, in response, the hearing aid device can generate and output an audible indication associated with the detected one or more control tones.
US09119008B2 Hearing prosthesis echo location
Presented herein are echo location techniques to obtain information about an implantable component of a hearing prosthesis relative to a recipient's tissue. The hearing prosthesis may comprise an elongate stimulating assembly configured to be implanted in a recipient's where an echo transmitter is disposed in the stimulating assembly. The echo transmitter is configured to emit an energy pulse within the recipient and an echo receiver disposed in the stimulating assembly is configured to detect a portion of the energy pulse reflected from tissue of the recipient.
US09119006B2 Hearing aid with improved localization
A hearing aid includes: a cue filter having an input that is provided with an output from the BTE sound input transducer; an adaptive feedback canceller configured to provide an output modelling a feedback path between the output transducer and the BTE sound input transducer, wherein the output modelling the feedback path is provided to a subtractor for subtraction of the output modelling the feedback path from the output of the BTE sound input transducer to obtain a difference, the subtractor outputting the difference to the cue filter; and a feedback and cue controller connected to the adaptive feedback canceller and the cue filter, wherein the feedback and cue controller is configured to control the cue filter to reduce a difference between an output of the ITE microphone and a combined output that is obtained using at least the cue filter.
US09119002B2 Equalization of an audio signal
A method of processing an input audio signal, the method comprising forming a plurality of output audio signals from the input audio signal, wherein each output audio signal is formed by performing respective processing on the input audio signal, wherein for a first output audio signal there is a target audio equalization operation comprising a target filter twice, wherein for the first output audio signal, the respective processing comprises a first audio equalization operation, the first audio equalization operation being the target audio equalization operation modified to compensate for phase shifts that correspond to zeros of the transfer function of the target audio equalization operation, wherein for each output audio signal other than the first output audio signal, the respective processing comprises a compensation filter that compensates for phase shifts that correspond to poles of the transfer function of the target audio equalization operation.
US09119000B2 Modular speaker system
A modular speaker system includes a base assembly having a longitudinally extending, central support member and a support leg extending therefrom in a manner supporting the central support member in a generally upright configuration. The central support member includes a first end and a second end. A first woofer is secured to the base assembly, and a base assembly amplifier is mounted within the central support member and connected to the first woofer. An auxiliary speaker assembly includes a longitudinally extending, auxiliary support member having a first end and a second end, the first end being shaped and dimensioned for selective engagement with the second end of the central support member. A first driver is secured to the auxiliary speaker assembly and an amplifier is mounted within the auxiliary support member and is connected to the first driver.
US09118996B1 Head band with wirelessly engaged music player
The present invention features a headband system comprising a headband, an adaptor removably attached to the headband, a music player. The music player is removably attached to the adapter and is configured to wirelessly engage to the adapter and be controlled by a plurality of control buttons on the adaptor via Bluetooth connection. The music player may be attached to the adapter directly or be placed at proximity of the adaptor to play music using the control buttons on the adaptor.
US09118994B2 Capacitance sensor, acoustic sensor, and microphone
A capacitance sensor has a substrate, a vibration electrode plate formed over an upper side of the substrate, a back plate formed over the upper side of the substrate to cover the vibration electrode plate, and a fixed electrode plate arranged on the back plate facing the vibration electrode plate. At least one of the vibration electrode plate and the fixed electrode plate is divided into a plurality of regions. A sensing unit configured by the vibration electrode plate and the fixed electrode plate is formed on each of the divided regions. An isolation portion that suppresses vibration from being propagated is formed on the back plate to partition the sensing units from each other.
US09118993B2 Voice coil and loudspeaker using the same
A loudspeaker includes a frame, a diaphragm, a magnetic circuit, a voice coil bobbin and a voice coil. The frame is mounted on a side of the magnetic circuit. The frame has an opening end. The diaphragm has an inner rim and an outer rim. The outer rim of the diaphragm is fixed to the opening end of the frame. The inner rim of the diaphragm is fixed to an end of the voice coil bobbin. The magnetic circuit defines a magnetic gap. The voice coil bobbin is disposed in the magnetic gap. The voice coil is wound around the voice coil bobbin. The voice coil includes a lead wire. The lead wire includes a conductive core and an insulated layer. The insulated layer is coated on the conductive core. The conductive core includes a linear carbon nanotube structure and a wire structure contacting each other.
US09118992B2 Ported enclosure and automated equalization of frequency response in a micro-speaker audio system
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a system that includes a detection device and a processor. The detection device is configured to sense that a handheld device has not been placed on or near a surface. In response to sensing that the handheld device has not been placed on or near a surface, the detection device is configured to transmit an indicator to the processor. The processor is configured to receive a first audio signal, and determine that the handheld device has not been placed on or near a surface by receiving the indicator from the detection device. In response to determining that the handheld device has not been placed on or near a surface, the processor is further configured to apply a compensating function to the first audio signal to generate a second audio signal, and transmit the second audio signal to a speaker.
US09118990B2 Connectors designed for ease of use
Headset connector systems and headset engaging connector systems are provided. Headset connector systems can include two or more headset connector contact regions. Headset engaging connector systems can include two or more headset engaging contact regions to provide at least one of power and data. The headset connector system or the headset engaging connector system can include switching circuitry electrically coupled to the respective contact regions. The switching circuitry can be operative to determine an interface orientation between the headset connector contact regions and the headset engaging contact regions. The switching circuitry can also be operative to selectively route received signals based on the determined interface orientation. At least a portion of the headset connector system or the headset engaging connector system can be magnetically attractive.
US09118988B2 Automated customization of loudspeakers
A loudspeaker includes a horn including a first end panel, a second end panel, a first side panel, and a second side panel. Edges of at least the first and second side panels define a diffraction slot opening. The first and second side panels are each fabricated from a sheet of flexible material held in a stressed, curved shape by at least a rigid support member. The panels are designed by an automated process based on a number of electro-acoustic transducers to be used in a loudspeaker, horizontal and vertical coverage angles for the loudspeaker, and a wall length for a horn of the loudspeaker.
US09118985B2 Communication of diagnostic information from satellite to host
A vehicle sound system includes a subwoofer system having a subwoofer, a satellite amplifier for driving the subwoofer, a host amplifier for receiving an audio signal, a noise management processing unit for providing, to the host amplifier, information to be used for achieving a desired audio environment, a sensor for providing information to the noise management processing unit concerning the ambient audio environment, a control line between the satellite amplifier and the host amplifier for transmission of control signals to the satellite amplifier, and a signal line between the satellite amplifier and the host amplifier for transmission of audio signals to the satellite amplifier, the satellite controller being configured to cause a diagnostic signal to be placed on the control line, the diagnostic signal being indicative of an operating condition of the subwoofer system.
US09118984B2 Control plane for integrated switch wavelength division multiplexing
A method of controlling optical data flow in a network is provided. The method includes: receiving, by a switch controller, a data flow including a plurality of data packets used for network management and control, the network switch including at least one wavelength tunable optical data transmission interface to a wavelength division multiplexed optical network; transmitting a control signal indicating which wavelengths are in use and which wavelengths are not in use to the network switch over a control link; receiving a return signal generated by an optical filter in the switch, the return signal indicative of an available wavelength for transmission of the data flow to the switch; allocating a data traffic flow to the available wavelength, and communicating the allocation decision to the network switch; and transmitting the data flow to the switch via an optical carrier signal having the available wavelength indicated by the return signal.
US09118980B2 Transmit power scaling method and system to detect occurrences using geographically distributed sensors
Sensors within sensor node networks may communicate bio-event or other types of measurement results/decisions between each other using signal transmission variations. Each sensor node within a network and between networks may transmit and receive signals. A sensor node may scale a signal transmission power in a manner that is proportional to a confidence level of a decision or measurement about an event being detected. Each sensor node will receive transmissions from neighboring nodes, and can refine an estimate about an occurrence of the event at its location based on received signal strengths, for example.
US09118977B2 Content synchronization system, content-synchronization control device, and content playback device
A content synchronization system can be provided with which, under HTTP, a content-synchronization control device can control each content playback device so that content control is synchronized in multiple content playback devices. Inquiry reception means 82 receives an inquiry for determining presence/absence of playback control command transmitted from each content playback device 90 to the content playback device. The waiting time determination means 83 determines a waiting time from when the content playback device of the source of transmission of inquiry receives an inquiry response to when it transmits a subsequent inquiry so that the reception time of the inquiry transmitted from each content playback device 90 is at the same time, on the basis of the reference of the reception cycle of the inquiry. The inquiry response transmission means 85 returns the inquiry response including the waiting time back to the content playback device. At this occasion, when the playback control command and the start time of the control are determined, the information thereof is also included in the inquiry response.
US09118963B2 Method and apparatus for managing advertising
A system that incorporates teachings of the subject disclosure may include, for example, determining identified impressions that are detected from consumption data collected from a group of media processors where the identified impressions represent viewing of selected content and where the consumption data indicates channel tuning events at the group of media processors including changing of channels, applying a ridge regression analysis to the identified impressions to determine a predicted number of target impressions per advertisement slot, and generating a media plan based on a ratio of an advertisement slot cost to the predicted number of target impressions per advertisement slot. Other embodiments are disclosed.
US09118961B2 Method of providing an audio-video device to an end user
A semiconductor integrated circuit for the processing of conditional access television signals that includes an input interface for receiving encrypted television signals and an output interface for output of decrypted television signals. The semiconductor integrated circuit is provided with some functionality restricted in some way by preventing one or more hardware circuit elements from operating, such as an MPEG decoder, display engine, IO ports or main CPU. To enable the functionality, a subscriber must pay for a service and then receives an encrypted message broadcast to the semiconductor integrated circuit that is decrypted and instructs functionality to be turned on or off.
US09118957B2 Information descriptor and extended information descriptor data structures for digital television signals
According to an aspect, there is provided a digital television (DTV) data stream including program and system information protocol (PSIP) data associated with content of the DTV data stream, the PSIP data including a virtual channel table (VCT) and an event information table (EIT), the EIT comprising: a source identification field identifying a source of an associated event in a DTV data stream; an event identification field indicating an identification of the event; a start time field indicating a star time of the event; a title field indicating a title of the event; and a descriptor comprising: a descriptor tag identifying the descriptor as a genre descriptor, a descriptor length indicating a total length of the descriptor; and at least one category code for an associated event in a DTV data stream, each category code specifying genre, program type, or category information of the associated event, wherein the at least one category code specifies at least one of a set of basic categories.
US09118956B2 System and method of displaying content
A method includes receiving, at a computing device, a first selection of first video content. The method also includes adding a first element corresponding to the first video content to a list. Each element of the list corresponds to respective previously displayed video content. The method includes receiving, at the computing device, input indicating a request to view the list and sending the list to the display device in response to the request. The elements of the list are ordered based on display times of the corresponding video content.
US09118955B2 Stereo image handling device and method
An apparatus and a method for processing a stereo image are provided. In the method, a first image and a second image are obtained via a first camera module and a second camera module installed spaced by a predetermined distance. When the stereo image is captured, the first image and the second image are alternatively sampled with a predetermined time interval. The sampled at least one first image and the sampled at least one second image are encoded. Therefore, the stereo image can be compressed with low complexity compared to the case of compressing a stereo image using a 2D image compression technology.
US09118951B2 Time-synchronizing a parallel feed of secondary content with primary media content
Disclosed is a method of operating a secondary device in a manner associated with operation of a primary device including obtaining first information corresponding to a media asset being output by the primary device, processing the first information to determine local media-signature information, transmitting the first information for receipt by a server, receiving secondary information from the server, wherein the secondary information includes a plurality of asset-media signatures that respectively correspond to respective portions of the media asset, attempting to determine a time-based correlation between at least one portion of the local media-signature information and at least one of the asset-media signatures, and outputting one or more portions of time-relevant asset streams from the secondary device, the one or more portions being determined at least indirectly based upon the correlation.
US09118950B2 Broadcast receiving apparatus, playback apparatus, broadcast communication system, broadcast receiving method, playback method, and program
A broadcast receiving apparatus capable of playing back, with another apparatus, a broadcast content item and a communication content item in synchronization with each other is a broadcast receiving apparatus that receives a broadcast content item to be broadcast, and includes: a first information obtaining unit configured to obtain synchronization information for playing back, in synchronization with playback of the broadcast content item, a communication content item to be distributed through communication other than broadcasting; an information notifying unit configured to notify a playback apparatus that plays back the communication content item of the synchronization information; and a broadcast receiving and playback unit configured to receive and play back the broadcast content item.
US09118949B2 System and method for networked PVR storage and content capture
A content management system for managing content stored by a number of networked Personal Video Recorders (PVRs) associated with a user community is provided. More specifically, the storage space of each of the personal video recorders is physically or logically partitioned into a personal space and a community space. The content management system manages the community spaces of the PVRs such that content relevant to the user community is stored in the collective community space of the PVRs and available to the user community.
US09118940B2 Video bandwidth allocation in a video conference
Communicating information exchanged in a video conference. Responsive to detecting a change in an amount of audio information generated by at least one participant in the video conference, identifying a first of the plurality of participants in the video conference that currently is a primary presenter in the video conference, allocating a first level of video bandwidth to communicate video information generated in the video conference to a client device, by the primary presenter in the video conference, and allocating a second level of video bandwidth to communicate video information generated in the video conference to a client device, by one or more other participants, who currently are not the primary presenter in the video conference, wherein the second level of video bandwidth is less than the first level of video bandwidth.
US09118932B2 Adaptive filtering mechanism to remove encoding artifacts in video data
A method includes determining, through a processor and/or a hardware engine, edge pixels and flat pixels of a video frame of a video sequence during decoding thereof or post-processing associated with the decoding based on a predetermined threshold, and quantifying spatial correlation of pixels of the video frame around edges thereof to estimate strength of ringing artifacts and spatial and temporal persistence thereof across the video frame and across video frames of the video sequence. The method also includes adaptively and spatially filtering the pixels around the edges of the video frame, adaptively and temporally filtering the video frame, and blending an output of the adaptive spatial filtering and the adaptive temporal filtering to generate an output with suppressed ringing artifacts, spatial and temporal persistence thereof and artifacts resulting from the cumulative effect of compression therein.
US09118927B2 Sub-pixel interpolation and its application in motion compensated encoding of a video signal
Reducing computational complexity when generating sub-pixel values for sub-pixel motion estimation from integer pixels. In an embodiment, half pixels in vertical and horizontal directions are computed by a applying a filter of first complexity on integer pixels, and a half pixel in diagonal direction is computed using a filter of lower complexity as compared to the filter of first complexity. Quarter (and other lower resolution pixels) pixels may also be generated using the half pixel in the diagonal direction. Thus, overall computational complexity is reduced in generating sub-pixels for sub-pixel motion estimation.
US09118924B2 Image decoding device and method thereof using inter-coded predictive encoding code
An image encoding device and corresponding decoding device are disclosed for achieving a high rate of compression. The encoding device includes an image conversion module that converts the direction of the images using right-left symmetry mode convention or up-down symmetry mode conversion. Encoding modules are used to encode both the unconverted and converted images. A mode selector module compares the quantity of codes in the encoded unconverted images and the quantity of codes in the encoded converted images, and selects codes that are smaller in the quantity of codes for output.
US09118923B2 Reconstruction and overlap transform system and method supporting VC-1 decoding
Presented herein are reconstruction and overlap transform system(s) and method(s) supporting VC-1 decoding. In one embodiment, there is presented a system for reconstructing pixels. The system comprises a first circuit and a second circuit. The first circuit reconstructs pixels from residuals, where the residuals encode video data in accordance with a first encoding standard. The second circuit reconstructs pixels from residuals, where the residuals encode video data in accordance with a second encoding standard.
US09118922B2 Progressive encoding of video content within a swarm environment
Embodiments are directed towards employing distributed computing concepts such as peer-to-peer processing to distribute across a plurality of peer client devices, or swarm, the computations of High Cost and Compression Encoding Schemes (HCC) for encoding digital video content. As more peer client devices receive the content, progressively more iterations of a HCC encoding is performed on various frames within the video content, thereby improving the encoding of the overall video content. Optionally, such distributed progressive processing or swarming approach may include other encoding, such as scaling corrections, scene transitions corrections, and the like.
US09118919B2 Methods and systems for computing the quality of an MPEG-2 video stream
Novel “loss rate” metrics are presented that can be used to indicate the quality of a video stream. These metrics may be determined using a simplified method or by a more sophisticated method, the latter method applying different “weights” (i.e., adjustments) to error computations based on the type of frame involved (i.e., I, P, B). Both methods may produce a video quality score within a given range (e.g., in the range of 0 to 1) where one end of the range indicates a video stream of high quality (i.e., no frames are affected), and the other end indicates a video stream of low quality (i.e., all frames are affected).
US09118908B2 Two dimensional/three dimensional switchable module and a method of driving the same
A two dimensional/three dimensional (2D/3D) switchable display module comprising a display panel, an optical module, a gate driver and a data driver is disclosed. The display panel comprises a plurality of sub pixels electrically coupled to a plurality of gate lines and a plurality of data lines. The optical module is disposed on the display panel for changing light path from the display panel. The gate driver provides a plurality of scan signals to the gate lines. The data driver provides a plurality of data signals to the data lines. The gate driver provides the same scan signal to more than one gate lines at a same time or the data driver provides the same data signal to more than one data lines at a same time for displaying images.
US09118904B2 Image processing apparatus, image processing method, and program for generating a three dimensional image to be stereoscopically viewed
There is provided an imaging element that photographs multiple viewing point images corresponding to images observed from different viewing points and an image processing unit separates an output signal of the imaging element, acquires the plurality of viewing point images corresponding to the images observed from the different viewing points, and generates a left eye image and a right eye image for three-dimensional image display, on the basis of the plurality of acquired viewing point images. The image processing unit generates parallax information on the basis of the plurality of viewing point images obtained from the imaging element and generates a left eye image and a right eye image for three-dimensional image display by 2D3D conversion processing using the generated parallax information. By this configuration, a plurality of viewing point images are acquired on the basis of one photographed image and images for three-dimensional image display are generated.
US09118900B2 3-dimensional camera module having X-prism and using method thereof
The present invention relates to a 3-dimensional camera module having an X-prism, and a using method thereof, the camera module including: a pair of lenses condensing incident light; a pair of shutters positioned at a center axis of each lens to open/close with a time difference for interrupting or passing the condensed incident light; a pair of polarizers vertically polarizing the incident light having passed any one shutter of the pair of shutters; an X-prism shaped of a rectangular parallelepiped coupled with four prism units and coated with a reflection film for selectively reflecting the vertically polarized incident light; and an image sensor continuously receiving the vertically polarized incident light and the horizontally polarized incident light reflected to the reflection film with a time difference to generate left/right images corresponding to the vertically polarized incident light and the horizontally polarized incident light in association with the pair of shutter.
US09118897B2 Hybrid video coding supporting intermediate view synthesis
Hybrid video decoder supporting intermediate view synthesis of an intermediate view video from a first- and a second-view video which are predictively coded into a multi-view data signal with frames of the second-view video being spatially subdivided into sub-regions and the multi-view data signal having a prediction mode is provided, having: an extractor configured to respectively extract, from the multi-view data signal, for sub-regions of the frames of the second-view video, a disparity vector and a prediction residual; a predictive reconstructor configured to reconstruct the sub-regions of the frames of the second-view video, by generating a prediction from a reconstructed version of a portion of frames of the first-view video using the disparity vectors and a prediction residual for the respective sub-regions; and an intermediate view synthesizer configured to reconstruct first portions of the intermediate view video.
US09118894B2 Image processing apparatus and image processing method for shifting parallax images
A viewpoint position sets, when a stereoscopic video image is provided that includes a left-eye parallax image and a right-eye parallax image having a predetermined parallax distribution and that is observed from a given viewpoint, a virtual viewpoint for observing a subject from another viewpoint. A parallax image generation unit generates a left-eye and a right-eye parallax image for providing a desired parallax distribution that are obtained when an observation is made from the virtual viewpoint, by shifting the image cut-out position of at least one of the left-eye or the right-eye parallax image. When the shift amount at the image cut-out position changes due to a position change of the virtual viewpoint, the parallax image generation unit generates a parallax image while changing the shift amount in stages from a shift amount obtained before the change to a shift amount obtained after the change.
US09118892B2 Apparatus and method for encoding and decoding moving picture using adaptive scanning
Provided is an apparatus and method for encoding/decoding a moving picture based on adaptive scanning. The moving picture apparatus and method can increase a compression rate based on adaptive scanning by performing intra prediction onto blocks of a predetermined size, and scanning coefficients acquired from Discrete Cosine Transform (DCT) of a residue signal and quantization differently according to the intra prediction mode. The moving picture encoding apparatus includes: a mode selector for selecting and outputting a prediction mode; a predictor for predicting pixel values of pixels to be encoded of an input video based on the prediction mode to thereby output a residue signal block; a transform/quantization unit for performing DCT onto the residue signal block and quantizing the transformed residue signal block; and an encoder for adaptively scanning and encoding the quantized residue signal block based on the prediction mode.
US09118890B2 3D display
A method for displaying images in three dimensions is provided in which input image data which includes left eye image data and right eye image data offset to provide stereopsis is used to calculate a common image and a left and right residual image. The common image includes information that is common to both the right eye image and the left eye image. The left and right residual images include information from, respectively, the left eye image and the right eye image that creates depth perception. The common, left residual and right residual images are displayed in a sequence.
US09118876B2 Automatic skin tone calibration for camera images
Exemplary image calibration systems and methods are described herein. An exemplary method includes an image calibration system receiving data representative of an input camera image, detecting a face of a person represented in the input camera image, determining a predefined skin tone template associated with the person, and modifying the input camera image to change an appearance of the face of the person based on the predefined skin tone template associated with the person. In certain embodiments, the modification changes one or more skin tones represented by an image of the face of the person in the camera image based on the predefined skin tone template. Corresponding methods and systems are also disclosed.
US09118875B2 Systems for displaying images on portable display devices and head-mountable displays, methods for controlling such systems, and computer-readable storage media storing instructions for controlling such systems
A system includes a head-mountable display and a portable information processor. The portable information processor includes a determination device that determines whether communication between a head-mountable display and the portable information processor is enabled. The portable information processor includes an identification device that identifies at least a portion of image data that is displayed by the portable information processor. The portable information processor includes a transmitter that transmits the identified at least a portion of the image data to the head-mountable display when the determination device determines that communication between the head-mountable display and the portable information processor is enabled. The head-mountable display includes a receiver that receives the identified at least a portion of the image data from the portable information processor. The head-mountable display includes a display that displays the identified at least a portion of the image data.
US09118865B2 Receiving device, receiving method, program, and receiving system
This technique relates to a receiving device, a receiving method, a program, and a receiving system that are designed to reduce circuit size. A receiving device of one aspect of this technique includes: a de-mapping unit that receives a symbol signal generated by performing mapping on a first branch signal and a second branch signal indicating information about the same transmission target, and performs de-mapping on the symbol signal by a hard decision; a selecting unit that selects, in accordance with a reception state, one signal from the first branch signal and the second branch signal obtained through the de-mapping; and a decoding unit that decodes the information about the transmission target based on the one signal. This technique can be applied to receivers that receive OFDM signals compliant with DVB-C2.
US09118863B2 Method and apparatus for finer control in thin line growth
A method, non-transitory computer readable medium, and apparatus for providing controlling a thin line growth are disclosed. For example, the method receives an image in a first resolution, wherein each pixel of a plurality of pixels within the image is marked with a first tag and a second tag, wherein the first tag determines whether each pixel is on or off in the image and the second tag determines whether a thin line growth for each pixel is on or off in the image and produces a second image in a second resolution based upon the image in the first resolution, wherein the thin line is grown by turning on each pixel in a sub-line that is adjacent to a different pixel from a different sub-line having the first tag on and the second tag of the each pixel in the sub-line is on.
US09118862B2 Image processing device having improved quality of its printed images
An image processing device includes a storage unit, a processing unit, and a memory. The storage unit stores a dither matrix. The memory has instructions stored thereon that, when executed by the processing unit, cause the processing unit to function as: an acquiring unit that is configured to acquire an image including a plurality of pixels, each pixel having a color value; an updating unit that is configured to update a color value of at least one pixel by adding a random number to the color value; and a thresholding unit that is configured to convert the updated color value into a binary value by using the dither matrix.
US09118861B2 Quantization method, image processing apparatus, and recording medium
A quantization method according to an aspect of the present invention includes the steps of quantizing a first image data by the use of a basic pattern and converting the first image data into a second image data that represents a binary or multi-level quantized pattern having a gray level smaller than that of the first image data. The basic pattern according to this aspect of the present invention presents high frequent occurrence of the basic tone patterns and a mostly uniform-distributed pattern of the clusters of different kinds of the basic tone patterns in the image with the long-distance autocorrelation (periodicity) of the basic tone patterns suppressed. Quantization by the use of this basic pattern provides a quantized pattern that reflects pattern characteristics of the basic pattern.
US09118859B2 Image processing device and image processing system
An image processing device includes an image scanning part that scans an image on a document and generates image data based on the image, an input part that accepts an input designation of a division number into which the image data generated by the image scanning part is divided, and an output resolution of output image data created based on the image data, a division processing part that creates divided image data by dividing the image data by the division number accepted by the input part, controller that calculates a scan resolution based on the division number and the output resolution of the output image data, and a data output part that outputs the divided image data as the output image data. The controller controls the image scanning part to scan the image at the calculated scan resolution.
US09118858B2 Image pickup apparatus, image pickup system and driving method of image pickup apparatus
An image pickup apparatus of an embodiment includes pixel units each including a photoelectric conversion unit and an amplification transistor that outputs a signal based on an electric carrier generated by the photoelectric conversion unit, a first output line to which signals from first and other pixel units are output, and a second output line to which signals from second and other pixel units are output. A connection unit is arranged to control an electric connection between input nodes of the amplification transistors of the first and second pixel units is arranged. A control unit is arranged to selectively output a signal from at least one of the first and second pixel units to the first output line out of the first and second output lines when the connection unit mutually connects the input nodes of the first and second pixel units.
US09118855B2 Solid-state imaging device, signal processing method thereof, and electronic apparatus
A solid-state imaging device includes a pixel array section that includes a light-blocked pixel portion, and an effective pixel portion, and a signal process circuit that processes a pixel signal output from each pixel of the pixel array section. The signal processing circuit calculates, as held data, a row statistic obtained by performing a statistical process on pixel signals of the light-blocked pixel portion in the unit of rows, holds the held data items of a plurality of rows including a process target row of the pixel array section, randomly selects one of the held data items of a plurality of rows, and subtracts the randomly selected held data item from a pixel signal of the pixel of the process target row in the effective pixel portion.
US09118844B2 Imaging apparatus, image processing apparatus, and imaging method for providing a special effect superimposing still image data on moving image data
An image processing unit performs image processing with respect to image data. A still image information storage unit stores still image data in accordance with an instruction from a still image shooting instruction unit. A moving image recording unit records moving image data in accordance with an instruction from a moving image shooting instruction unit. The timing information acquisition unit acquires timing information. The image processing unit performs special effect image processing of combining the still image data to image data associated with the timing information in the pieces of image data constituting the moving image data.
US09118842B2 Producing focused videos from single captured video
A method of providing an all-in-focus video from a single captured video is disclosed. The method uses a processor to perform the steps of acquiring a single captured video of a scene such that during capture there are at least two differing focus settings by using the single captured video to provide a plurality of videos having at least a first video at the first focus setting and a second video at the second focus setting and providing an all-in-focus video from the plurality of videos.
US09118841B2 Determining an image capture payload burst structure based on a metering image capture sweep
A first plurality of images of a scene may be captured. Each image of the first plurality of images may be captured with a different total exposure time (TET). Based at least on the first plurality of images, a TET sequence may be determined for capturing images of the scene. A second plurality of images of the scene may be captured. Images in the second plurality of images may be captured using the TET sequence. Based at least on the second plurality of images, an output image of the scene may be constructed.
US09118835B2 Imaging device having a display section, and imaging method therefor
An imaging device of the present invention comprises a display section that is capable of displaying a circular map display, having a cursor capable of movement in a circumferential direction and in a radial direction, an operation section that respectively causes movement of the cursor in the circumferential direction and the radial direction in accordance with operation of an operating section, and a control section that carries out control to make respective first and second shooting parameters correspond to a position of the cursor, that has been moved by the operation section, in a radial direction and a circumferential direction, wherein the first parameter is dependent on the position in the circumferential direction, and the display section is provided with a neutral zone on the circular map display, for neutralizing the first shooting parameter.
US09118834B2 Imaging apparatus
An apparatus includes a control unit which switches between a first display mode and a second display mode based on whether a zoom state is equal to or greater than a predetermined zoom magnification. The imaging apparatus, in a zoom state where a part of an imaging area is clipped and recorded, switches between the first display mode, which displays on a display unit a clipped recording area, and the second display mode, which displays on the display unit an area which is wider than the clipped recording area.
US09118830B2 Recording apparatus
A printer includes a scanner unit which reads a document; a recording portion which records information read by the scanner unit; and a tilt panel which constitutes the scanner unit and an operation portion of the recording portion. A printer executes a division reading mode which obtains image information of the entire document by linking image information obtained via a plurality of times of a document reading operation, with respect to the document of which the size is greater than the size of the document reading area. The image information of the entire document can be obtained by sequentially linking a predetermined image position of an ending position side of an image obtained by a first document reading operation and a predetermined image position of an initiating position side of an image obtained by the following document reading operation, in a linking direction of the image.
US09118821B2 Memory card with wireless communication function, method of operating memory card with wireless communication function, and non-transitory computer-readable device storing a program for operating memory card with wireless communication function
A memory card with a wireless communication function may include a card interface (I/F) unit, a storage unit configured to store processing content information when the processing content information indicating processing content has been input from the host equipment to the card I/F unit; a wireless communication unit; a processing determination unit configured to determine whether or not the storage unit has stored the processing content information corresponding to processing request information when the wireless communication unit has received the processing request information transmitted from the external apparatus, a processing execution unit, and a processing relay unit configured to output the processing request information to the host equipment via the card I/F unit when the processing determination unit determines that the storage unit has stored the processing content information corresponding to the processing request information.
US09118820B2 Writing control device and image forming apparatus
Disclosed is a writing control device including: a storing unit comprising N HDDs, N being an integer which is 2 or more; a data division unit configured to divide data to be written in the storing unit into N unequal division data; and a writing control unit configured to dispersedly store the N division data in the N HDDs in parallel, wherein the N division data include a first division data and a second division data having a larger data size than the first division data, and the writing control unit writes the second division data in tracks of a portion of the HDD, which is positioned on an outer side than a portion in which the first division data is written.
US09118819B1 Doorbell communication systems and methods
Doorbells can include a speaker and a visitor detection system having at least one of a button, a camera, and a motion detector. The speaker of the doorbell can be configurable to emit a first sound in response to the visitor detection system detecting a first indication of a visitor's presence. As well, the speaker of the doorbell can be configurable to emit a second sound in response to the visitor detection system detecting a second indication of the visitor's presence.
US09118816B2 Road vertical contour detection
The driver assistance system includes a camera operatively connectable to a processor. The driver assistance system is operable while the host vehicle is moving to detect a deviation in vertical contour of a road. A first image frame and a second image frame are captured in the field of view of the camera. Image motion is processed between respective images of the road derived from the first image frame and the second image frame. The vertical contour of the road is estimated using a road surface model of the road and the deviation in the vertical contour is computed from the road surface model.
US09118808B2 Dynamic allocation of encoders
A method and a device for providing for sharing encoder resources in an MCU without compromising with image quality and bandwidth adaption is provided. The method and device comprises dynamic allocation of encoders in a multi-party video conference of a number of endpoints, wherein the video conference endpoints are adapted to encode and transmit a media stream comprising the steps of creating a new encoder at a request for a new pad, determining whether a maximum number of encoders is reached, if the maximum number of encoders is not reached, then linking the new pad to the new encoder, if the maximum number of encoders is reached, then linking all existing pads to the new encoder, 15 and releasing all unused encoders.
US09118804B2 Electronic device and server, and methods of controlling the electronic device and server
An electronic device is provided including a communication unit configured to receive audio/video data (A/V data) streamed from a first electronic device, a display unit configured to display the video data of the A/V data, and a controller configured to obtain shape feature information of a first real object included in the video data, to determine whether there is first personal information of the first real object based on the shape feature information, and to display a first virtual object including the first personal information on the display unit in association with the first real object when there is the first personal information.
US09118803B2 Video conferencing system
A video conferencing system is provided. The video conferencing system includes: a first communication device, configured to receive a video signal from a host, and convert the video signal into a first video stream; and a second communication device, configured to receive a second video stream of a scene captured by an image capturing unit, and receive the first video stream from the first communication device by using a wireless communication protocol, wherein the second communication device selects one of the first video stream and the second video stream according to a switching signal, and transmits the selected video stream to an electronic system, wherein when receiving the switching signal, the second communication device stops transmitting the selected video stream to the electronic system for a predetermined time period, and transmits header information of another video stream to the electronic system, thereby resetting decoding settings of the system.
US09118802B2 Video ticket office
A Video Ticket Office provides interactive agent-assisted transportation service requests using real-time video and audio transmission with a separately-located operator center. A method may allow for changing from agent-assisted transportation service requests to automated services.
US09118793B2 Image forming apparatus, image forming system, image forming system control method, and program
An image forming apparatus includes a receiving unit configured to receive data via a network, a printing unit configured to print an image based on the data received from the receiving unit, and a control unit configured to control the receiving unit to refuse a data reception based on a simple mail transfer protocol (SMTP) when a toner remaining amount for the printing unit is less than a predetermined value, wherein the printing unit is configured to print, in the case that the receiving unit receives page description language (PDL) data, an image based on the received PDL data even if the toner remaining amount is less than the predetermined value.
US09118789B2 Application management system for restricting application concurrent execution depending on an image processing device that operates the application
In an application management system for managing a plurality of applications that are installed in an image processing device, in the case where an instruction of execution start is received, if an application execution unit has already executed an incompatible application that would cause an unintended operation of the application whose execution is to be started if concurrently executed with another application, and a warning screen about the application execution start is output.
US09118788B2 Display device and method of controlling the same
This invention provides a mechanism for doing print settings for a plurality of designated images by an intuitive operation. To achieve this, when a touch operation of a user for a plurality of images displayed on a screen has been detected, a display device according to one aspect of this invention displays a setting screen to set the print conditions of the plurality of images, and controls printing of the plurality of images in accordance with the print conditions set using the setting screen.
US09118783B2 Image forming apparatus, test system, and test method for testing application screen
The application processing unit executes an application on an application screen. The command analyzing unit analyzes a test command on the application screen received from an external apparatus, converts the test command into a plurality commands in a plurality of executable formats, and generates a command list from the commands. The command executing unit retrieves a command from the command list and executes the command on application screen processing data. The capture processing unit acquires a capture image of an application screen that is generated by executing the command if the application of the application screen is executed. The application screen test executing unit retrieves a next command from the command list, outputs the next command to the command executing unit, and stores the capture image until all the commands in the command list have been executed.
US09118780B2 Operations method for providing wireless communication services
The present invention is directed to an improved operations method for a wireless communication system. The improved business method, operations method, network and system of the present invention includes the steps of delivering cellular services to the mass market, reducing peak capacity, increasing overall capacity utilization, improving capital utilization, providing an “all-you-can-eat” pricing model, and designing capacity based upon where the users live, work, and play.
US09118779B2 System and method for inbound call billing
A system and method for billing an incoming communication. A code is received from a calling party during the incoming communication. Expenses of the incoming communication are allocated to an account of the calling party in response to receiving the code. An invoice is generated for the calling party and a receiving party specifying the expenses.
US09118778B2 Methods and apparatuses for pay for deal advertisements
Methods and apparatuses for advertising where the advertisement performance is determined via tracking the deals made as a result of communication leads generated from the advertisements. One embodiment includes: providing an advertisement containing a communication reference to a customer on behalf of a party; providing a connection via the reference for real time communications between the customer and the party; and charging an advertisement fee in response to an action of a predetermined type being performed by the customer (or an agreement between the customer and the party being reached) as a result of the real time communications.
US09118777B2 Mobile phone
The mobile phone includes an optical sensor, a display element, a pixel circuit portion where a plurality of pixels having a plurality of transistors are arranged in matrix, an optical sensor control circuit which is connected to an optical sensor driver circuit for driving the optical sensor and reads a signal from the optical sensor, a display portion control circuit which is connected to a display element driver circuit for driving the display element and outputs an image signal for displaying an image on a display portion, a gradient detection portion for outputting a signal in accordance with a gradient of the mobile phone, and an arithmetic circuit for performing display in the pixel circuit portion by switching image signals output to the display portion control circuit with a signal from the gradient detection portion.
US09118776B2 Location monitoring feature of a mobile device for activating an application subsystem
Methods, program products, and systems for baseband location monitoring and related functions are disclosed. A mobile device can monitor its own current location using its baseband subsystem and decide whether to selectively activate its application subsystem based on whether particular conditions are satisfied by the current location. The mobile device can also correlate location and cellular signal information using its baseband subsystem and provide the correlated location and cellular signal information to a server. The server can receive the correlated location and cellular signal information from the baseband subsystems of a large number of widely distributed mobile devices and generate respective profiles of cellular network base stations that transmitted the cellular signals to the mobile devices. The profiles of the cellular network base stations can be used by the server in fulfilling subsequent positioning requests from mobile devices that do not currently have the baseband location monitoring enabled.
US09118774B2 Dispatch system to remote devices
A method and system for presenting promotional content to a user of a communication device involves receiving information from a communication device, where the information relates to the communication device, and identifying a result relating to the information that is capable of being presented in a plurality of formats on the communication device, and dynamically selecting a format for the result from among the plurality of formats, and presenting the result in the selected format for display by the communication device.
US09118773B2 Automated prompting techniques implemented via mobile devices and systems
Various aspects disclosed herein are directed to different types of automated personal assistant techniques for facilitating call event notation, tagging, calendaring, etc., particularly those implemented on mobile communication devices. Users of mobile devices are provided with a relatively easy way to record and organize personal notes relating to one or more selected telephone conversations conducted by the user. Users can also manage notes, tasks, and schedule items related to the user's contacts and social network(s). In at least one embodiment, a Mobile Application running on a user's mobile device may be configured or designed to automatically detect an end of phone call event at the mobile device, and to automatically display a “pop-up” dialog GUI prompting the user to record a personalized note or other content (if desired), to be associated with the phone call which just ended.
US09118768B2 Touch-free push-to-talk switch in two-way radios and the method of using the same
An accessory system for a two-way radio allowing for touch-free push-to-talk (PTT) function, the system includes a detachable accessory to the two-way radio receiver, wherein the accessory can be a headset, an earphone, or a speaker microphone. The system also includes a user-wearable wrist band having a magnet to trigger a magnetic sensor located in the accessory when the wrist band is moved within close proximity to the magnetic sensor, thereby turning on the PTT function.
US09118763B1 Real time feedback proxy
In accordance with the teaching described herein, systems and methods are provided for a communications proxy and overlay network for a plurality of customer feedback collection instruments that are configured to gather information from customers. A communications server array may be configured to communicate with a user device and one or more contact centers. An application server may be configured to communicate with the communications server array, a contact centers having associated user interfaces. An intelligent text processing and analysis module may be configured to transform an input from the user device to a modified input for use by the first contact center and second contact center to facilitate real time or delayed communications between users and agents.
US09118757B2 System and method for mapping a private branch exchange system
A system and method for mapping a private branch exchange is provided whereby a visual representation of a private branch exchange is graphically displayed. Once the PBX is mapped, a user can then make changes to the connections and other data in the branch exchange and save those changes such that the PBX will then follow the edited structure.
US09118754B2 System and method for providing a public/private telephone number system
This invention shows a method for operating a voice communications network that comprises dynamically associating a private number with at least one public number of a circuit-switched voice communication network, authenticating a user of a private number without reliance on a static reproducible data code, receiving an incoming call to the public number and routing the incoming call from a caller to the private number. The method also shows the generation of an outgoing call from the private number and passing the outgoing call through the public number while generating calling party information to a target which preserves the privacy of the caller, and altering an associating of the private number and at least one public number. The system therefore acts as a proxy with authentication by means of dynamic code security. The caller and the user of the private number share seamless round-trip telephone communications while preserving the anonymity of the user of the private number. The system functionality is advantageously presented as a restricted option space defined by a “skin”, which provides a consistent and purposeful set of functionality useful for a predetermined population of users.
US09118751B2 System and method for analyzing and classifying calls without transcription
A facility and method for analyzing and classifying calls without transcription. The facility analyzes individual frames of an audio to identify speech and measure the amount of time spent in speech for each channel (e.g., caller channel, agent channel). Additional telephony metrics such as R-factor or MOS score and other metadata may be factored in as audio analysis inputs. The facility then analyzes the frames together as a whole and formulates a clustered-frame representation of a conversation to further identify dialogue patterns and characterize call classification. Based on the data in the clustered-frame representation, the facility is able to make estimations of call classification. The correlation of dialogue patterns to call classification may be utilized to develop targeted solutions for call classification issues, target certain advertising channels over others, evaluate advertising placements at scale, score callers, and to identify spammers.
US09118750B2 Customizable modular multi-function communication device
A configurable modular communication device is composed of an information delivery module and an information input module that are matable to each other. The information delivery module is a single base unit that can work with a touchscreen keypad or a number of modular keypad or other information input attachments. The information input module enables a user to change the look of the modular communication device according to personal taste and enhances its functionality to fit the exact occasion and mode of use. The information delivery module acts on its own as the navigation key and provides on its display screen menu (including an on-screen touch sensing keypad) user access to all functionality including telephone, PDA (personal digital assistant), camera, clock, GPS, and MP3 music player. User-controlled navigation takes place on or in the vicinity of the display screen, whether by hard or soft key actuation.
US09118746B2 Method for dialing from internet extension to conventional extension
A system for dialing from Internet extension of other SIP proxy server to conventional extension is disclosed. A VoIP gateway or an IP auto attendant is used for dialing from Internet extension to conventional extension. The phone number of the Private Branch Exchange and the voice guidance are not needed. The calling number of SIP message is interpreted directly and converted into DTMF (Dual-tone multi-frequency) messages for dialing into a conventional extension.
US09118743B2 Media rendering control
One aspect of the invention pertains to a method for adjusting a rendering speed for media that is received over a network at a receiving device. The latency for the received media is determined. Based on the latency, a consumption speed is determined. The media is then rendered at the determined consumption speed.
US09118741B2 Streaming transfer server, method, computer program and computer program product for transferring receiving of media content
It is presented a method for transferring receiving of streaming content from a first media receiver to a second media receiver, the method comprising the steps, executed in a streaming transfer server, of: receiving a presence message indicating the presence of the second media receiver; receiving an in use message indicating that the first media receiver is in active use by the user; transmitting a present media receiver message to the first media receiver, the present media receiver message comprising an identifier of the second media receiver; receiving a transfer message indicating that the receiving of the streaming content should be transferred from the first media receiver to the second media receiver; obtaining an identifier of the streaming content; and transmitting an initiate content message to the second media receiver, wherein the initiate content message comprises the identifier of the streaming content.
US09118740B2 Method and system for hosting entity-specific photo-sharing websites for entity-specific digital cameras
A system and method hosts entity-specific photo-sharing websites for entity-specific image capture devices. The system and method provides software for the entity-specific image capture devices that causes the image capture devices to transmit entity ID information when the image capture devices transmit images over the Internet. The system and method further provide an online photosharing service capable of hosting the entity-specific photo-sharing websites for each of the entities, such that when the image capture devices connect to photo-sharing service, the photo-sharing service uses the entity ID received from the image capture devices to automatically associate the image with the photo-sharing websites of the identified entity.
US09118738B2 Systems and methods for controlling access to a media stream
Systems and methods of controlling access to a multimedia stream in a media streaming session from a multimedia server to a requesting device via a network. The systems and methods facilitate receiving a primary request for the multimedia stream from the requesting device; determining whether to allow access to the primary request from the requesting device in accordance with at least one media session policy; and if access is permitted, then generating a secondary request corresponding to the primary request; providing the secondary request to the multimedia server; receiving a first multimedia stream from the multimedia server in response to the secondary request; determining whether to transmit the first multimedia stream or a second multimedia stream based on the at least one media session policy; and transmitting either the first multimedia stream or the second multimedia stream to the requesting device as indicated by the at least one media session policy.
US09118736B2 Communication control system, server device, and communication control method
A pairing server includes: a second determination unit which, when a first request is received from a transmitting terminal and a second request is received from a receiving terminal, determines whether or not there is matching of pairing identifiers included in the first and second requests and whether or not there is matching of communication device information included in the first and second requests; and a pairing unit which pairs the transmitting terminal and the receiving terminal using a first device identifier included in the first request and a second device identifier included in the second request when it is determined that there is matching of the pairing identifiers included in the first and second requests and that there is matching of the communication device information included in the first and second requests.
US09118734B2 Systems for managing conferences
Described is a conference management system for administering an online conference. The conference management system receives an electronic communication from a conference participant. A group is determined to be associated with the conference participant. An action is performed on the conference participant based on the group association.
US09118732B2 Control plane for sensor communication
The disclosed subject matter relates to an architecture that can employ a control plane for managing communications with respect to a set of sensors. By utilizing a control plane, a distinction between control messages and data messages can be provided in a standardized way and the set of sensors can benefit from additional functionality and configurability. For example, the control plane can be employed to modify parameters associated with the set of sensors, which can be effectuated in real time and in situ as opposed to at the time of fabrication or deployment. Moreover, such modifications can relate to both the sensing portions of a particular sensor as well as the communication portions of a particular sensor.
US09118729B2 Method for sharing resource of a videoconference using a video conferencing system
A resource sharing method for sharing user interfaces and multimedia files uses a video conferencing system which includes at least one computer, a local video terminal, a multipoint control unit (MCU), and at least one remote video terminal. The resource method includes steps where the at least one computer analyzes the format of the multimedia files and determines whether or not the local video terminal can support the format(s) of the multimedia files. The at least one computer may transmit the multimedia file(s) to the local video terminal and a multipoint control unit (MCU) and to the at least one remote video terminal through the MCU.
US09118724B1 Geographic based event recommendation and event attendee networking
In various example embodiments, a system and method for providing geographic-based event recommendation and event attendee networking are presented. A suggested event may be determined based on location information of a user. The user may be a member among members of a social network service. Event information corresponding to the suggested event may be provided to the user. A user attendance indication may be received from the user. The user attendance indication may indicate that the user may be attending the suggested event. Contact members, from among the members of the social network service, that are associated with the user through the social network service may be identified. An event notification may be communicated to the contact members. The event notification may include the user attendance indication.
US09118723B1 Post and content framework for social activity streams
Computer-implemented methods for generating and providing a post in a social activity stream by using a post framework and a content framework are provided. The post framework provides clear separation of shared content, the posting user's voice, social metadata, comment discussion, and interactive actions. The content framework includes a defined content body. The content body may include content, metadata and user interface control elements to be provided in a user post within a social activity stream. Systems and machine-readable media for providing a post in a social activity stream by using a post framework and/or a content framework are also provided.
US09118718B2 Techniques to monitor connection paths on networked devices
Techniques for managing network connections are described. An apparatus may comprise a communications component operative to manage a connection for a client, the connection routed over a network and a traffic analysis component operative to determine one or more characteristics of the routing of the connection. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US09118717B2 Delayed network protocol proxy for packet inspection in a network
An intermediary device, which behaves as a proxy for two entities after the entities have established a connection between themselves, is disclosed, as is a method that may be performed by such a device. The intermediary device can inspect a complete message, whose parts may be spread among multiple separate packets, without engaging in handshake phases with the message's origin or destination. As a first entity negotiates connection parameters with a second entity, the intermediary device stores the connection parameters as the parameters flow through the intermediary device. After the two entities have established an original connection, the intermediary device uses the intercepted parameters to form two separate connections in the place of the original connection: one between the intermediary device and the first entity, and another between the intermediary device and the second entity. To the entities, the newly formed connections appear to be same as the original connection.
US09118709B2 Anti-vulnerability system, method, and computer program product
A system, method, and computer program product are provided including client and server code configured to cooperate, resulting in display, via at least one user interface, of a plurality of user options for causing different actions of different types in connection with at least one of the networked devices that is actually vulnerable to at least one of a plurality of actual vulnerabilities for at least mitigating an occurrence. The user options include a first user option for causing a first action for dropping packets in connection with the at least one networked device for mitigating the occurrence and a second user option for causing a second action for installation of a patch on the at least one networked device for removing the at least one vulnerability from the at least one networked device. Based on receipt of first user input selecting the first option via the at least one user interface, the first action is caused for dropping packets in connection with the at least one networked device for mitigating the occurrence. Based on receipt of second user input selecting the second option via the at least one user interface, the second action is caused for installation of the patch on the at least one networked device, utilizing the client code, for removing the at least one vulnerability from the at least one networked device.
US09118698B1 Scalable data storage architecture and methods of eliminating I/O traffic bottlenecks
A Storage Area Network (SAN) system has host computers, front-end SAN controllers (FE_SAN) connected via a bus or network interconnect to back-end SAN controllers (BE_SAN), and physical disk drives connected via network interconnect to the BE_SANs to provide distributed high performance centrally managed storage. Described are hardware and software architectural solutions designed to eliminate I/O traffic bottlenecks, improve scalability, and reduce the overall cost of SAN systems. In an embodiment, the BE_SAN has firmware to recognize when, in order to support a multidisc volume, such as a RAID volume, it is configured to support, it requires access to a physical disk attached to a second BE_SAN; when such a reference is recognized it passes assess commands to the second BE_SAN. Buffer memory of each FE_SAN is mapped into application memory space to increase access speed, where multiple hosts share an LBA the BE_SAN tracks writes and invalidates the unwritten buffers.
US09118695B1 System and method for secure optimized cooperative distributed shared data storage with redundancy
Embodiments relate to a computer-based method of checking a network to determine whether a certain number of copies of data are backed up onto the peer devices of the network. If the certain number of copies of the data are not backed up on the peer device on the network, then backing up the data on one or more network devices. If the certain number of copies of the data are backed up on the peer device of the network, then not backing up the data on the one or more network devices.
US09118693B2 Media delivery platform
A method of delivering an audio and/or visual media file including, for example, one or more of full or partial master recordings of songs, musical compositions, ringtones, videos, films, television shows, personal recordings, animation and combinations thereof, over the air wirelessly, from one or more servers to an electronic device with or without an Internet connection, said method comprising transmitting and audio and/or visual media file in compressed format to said electronic device, and wherein the electronic device is effective to receive said audio and/or visual file and playback said audio and/or visual content on demand by a user.
US09118690B2 Apparatus and method for matching users for online sessions
An apparatus, method, and machine-readable medium are described for establishing peer-to-peer (“P2P”) communication channels. In particular, in one embodiment, a matchmaker service performs a series of operations to service match requests received from a group of mobile devices. In one embodiment, the matchmaker service groups the match requests into matchable sets based on the application for which the requests are received and one or more variables associated with the application. Match requests within each match set can then be matched based on variables such as the NAT type, connection type and language associated with each of the mobile devices. Other variables such as geographical location, experience level, and age of the match requests may also be used to render match decisions.
US09118689B1 Archiving systems and methods for cloud based systems
A cloud based security method and processing node includes monitoring data traffic between a user and an external network, wherein the monitoring is performed by a processing node comprising a first server in a cloud based system, detecting a security incident, if an archiving rule exists based on the security incident, providing a notification to a second server within an organization's domain, wherein the user is part of the organization, and wherein the notification includes private data associated with the security incident based on the archiving rule, and storing non-private data in the cloud based system based on the archiving rule.
US09118688B2 Method and apparatus for providing a network assisting switch function
A method and apparatus for providing a network assisting switch function are disclosed. For example, the method receives a query for feature processing for a call from a switch deployed in a switched network, and determines if the feature processing for the call requires one or more switching services. The method determines if the switch is able to provide the one or more switching services, if the one or more switching services are determined to be required, and initiates a temporary connection to a network assisting switch function in a packet network, if the switch is unable to provide the one or more switching services.
US09118687B2 Methods and apparatus for a scalable network with efficient link utilization
In some embodiments, an apparatus comprises a core network node configured to be operatively coupled to a set of network nodes. The core network node is configured to receive a broadcast signal from a network node from the set of network nodes, which is originated from a host device operatively coupled to the network node. The broadcast signal is sent via a tunnel from the network node to the core network node, such that other network nodes that are not included in the tunnel do not receive the broadcast signal. The core network node is configured to retrieve control information associated with the broadcast signal without sending another broadcast signal, and then send the control information to the network node.
US09118685B1 Cloud data protection
A cloud data protection system protects cloud data of an enterprise. A protection policy for the enterprise is established by an administrator of the enterprise. The protection policy describes one or more types of cloud data protection to provide to the enterprise's cloud data. The cloud data protection system examines the protection policy to identify cloud data associated with the enterprise to access in order to implement the policy, and uses a personality object to retrieve the identified cloud data from one or more cloud services. The cloud data protection system performs one or more protection actions on the retrieved cloud data. The protection actions can include scanning the cloud data for malicious software, for compliance with a data loss prevention policy, or for data matching a discovery specification. The protection actions can also include archiving or backing up the cloud data.
US09118682B2 Handling HTTP-based service requests Via IP ports
A computer implemented method handles service requests for HTTP-based services via IP ports that are located on HTTP servers. These HTTP servers are logically coupled to a port sharing mechanism that handles service requests from clients, and each of the multiple HTTP servers provides the same HTTP-based service. A request for the HTTP-based service is sent to an IP port in a first HTTP server. However, this IP port has a current number of active IP connections that exceeds a soft cap. Nonetheless, this IP port is directed to accept and execute the request, and then to terminate its connection with the client. Any subsequent request for this same HTTP-based service is directed to another of the multiple HTTP servers.
US09118680B1 Opportunistic routing
When a client requests content from a Content Delivery Network (or other system), a first portion of the content is transmitted to the client from a source capable of providing high performance to that client. When the client has a sufficient amount of the content to perform its function, then additional portions of the content can be transmitted to the client from a source that provides a lower performance to that client with a minimal or no performance penalty to the user of the client.
US09118676B2 Storage medium, information processing device and method
A computer recognizes a first individual address of each of one or more other devices located in a first environment in which the computer is located at a first point in time, maps each first individual address to a first individual point in a coordinate space, and recognizes a first distribution using coordinates of each first individual point. The computer recognizes a second individual address of each of one or more other devices located in a second environment in which the computer is located at a second point in time, maps each second individual address to a second individual point in the coordinate space, and recognizes a second distribution using coordinates of each second individual point. The computer judges whether the first distribution and the second distribution match in accordance with a distribution matching criterion as to whether two distributions match.
US09118675B2 3D cloud lock
In embodiments, a method of securing access to a computer memory and other computer resources includes authoring a 3D projection of data by a registering user customizing elements in the 3D projection, resulting in a registered 3D projection. The method further includes presenting to a requesting user a representation of the elements of the 3D projection in a randomized fashion. The method additionally includes receiving, from the requesting user, manipulations of the presented elements of the 3D projection toward undoing or solving the randomization. The method includes determining whether the manipulated elements of the 3D projection match the customized elements of the registered 3D projection. Then, the method includes granting, to the registered user, access to the computer memory if the manipulated elements of the 3D projection match the customized elements of the registered 3D projection. The granting may be based on the determination of whether the manipulated elements of the 3D projection match the customized elements of the registered 3D projection in the positive.
US09118673B2 Methods and systems for secure key entry via communication networks
According to some embodiments, a member authentication request is received at a security server from a client server. The member authentication request may be associated with, for example, a member attempting to access confidential information from the client server. A secure key associated with the member may be determined and data associated with that key may be transmitted to the member (e.g., via his or her wireless device or computer). Secure key information may be received from the member and validated. Based on the validated secure key information, it may be arranged for the member to receive the confidential information from the client server.
US09118672B2 Back-end constrained delegation model
A client can communicate with a middle tier, which can then, in turn, communicate with a back end tier to access information and resources on behalf of the client within the context of a system that can scale well. Each individual back end can establish a policy that defines which computing device can delegate to that back end. That policy can be enforced by a domain controller within the same administrative domain as the particular back end. When a middle tier requests to delegate to a back end, the domain controller to which that request was directed can either apply the policy, or, if the domain controller is in a different domain than the targeted back end, it can direct the middle tier to a domain controller in a different domain and can sign relevant information that the middle tier can utilize when communicating with that different domain controller.
US09118670B2 Making a user's data, settings, and licensed content available in the cloud
A cloud-based computer system changes the modern paradigm from being device-centric to being person-centric. The system makes all user data, software settings, device settings, and licensed content for a user available in the cloud. The system includes a conversion mechanism that can convert information intended for one device type to a different device type. Thus, a user changing smart phone platforms can convert their current smart phone settings to equivalent settings on the new phone platform, and their new phone can then be configured using the user's converted settings stored in the cloud. By storing all the user's relevant information in the cloud, this information may be accessed anywhere and may be used to configure a large number of different devices according to the user's settings.
US09118667B2 System and method for accessing private networks
A system and method are provided for using a mobile device to authenticate access to a private network. The mobile device may operate to receive a challenge from an authentication server, the challenge having being generated according to a request to access a private network; obtain a private value; use the private value, the challenge, and a private key to generate a response to the challenge; and send the response to the authentication server. An authentication server may operate to generate a challenge; send the challenge to a mobile device; receive a response from the mobile device, the response having been generated by the mobile device using a private value, the challenge, and a private key; verify the response; and confirm verification of the response with a VPN gateway to permit a computing device to access a private network.
US09118665B2 Authentication system and method
A security protocol for use by computing devices communicating over an unsecured network is described. The security protocol makes use of secure data provided to a peripheral memory device from a server via a secure connection. When the peripheral memory device is coupled to a computing device that attempts to establish a secure connection to the server, the secure data is used to verify that the server is authentic. Similarly, the secure data assists the server in verifying that the request to access the server is not being made by a malicious third party.
US09118664B1 Password scheme that can be used for security of modems in an independently operated cable system that is scalable with dynamically changeable passwords
A password scheme is provided that can be used for security of cable modems in a cable network. In the system, the password is unique to each modem, the password is not fixed for the life of the device, is not shared across cable systems, is easily recoverable after a compromise, and is changed periodically based on some type of configuration. In the system each modem creates its own random password. Then the modem encrypts the password using a public key provided by the cable system and stores the encrypted password in a Management Information Base (MIB) operated by the cable system. The MIB operator decrypts the encrypted password corresponding to the public key and recovers the password. The cable operator uses the password to log in remotely to the modem. If a compromise or change of the public key or password occurs, the password is regenerated using the same procedure.
US09118663B1 Agile OTP generation
A method, system, and apparatus for agile generation of one time passcodes (OTPs) in a security environment, the security environment having a token generator comprising a token generator algorithm and a validator, the method comprising generating a OTP at the token generator according to a variance technique; wherein the variance technique is selected from a set of variance techniques, receiving the OTP at a validator, determining, at the validator, the variance technique used by the token generator to generate the OTP, and determining whether to validate the OTP based on the OTP and variance technique.
US09118656B2 Systems and methods for multi-factor authentication
Requests to gain access to secure resources are adjudicated according to authentication policies that include rules based on user-states derived from multiple heterogeneous access-control systems. Comprehensive user authentication and access control based on rules and policies that encompass a user's status in multiple access-control systems, including both logical access (e.g., Active Directory, RADIUS, Virtual Private Network, etc.) as well as physical access (e.g., card-based) control systems, may be realized.
US09118655B1 Trusted display and transmission of digital ticket documentation
Embodiments of the disclosure relate generally to methods and systems for transmitting and displaying digital ticket documentation. A mobile communication device may comprise one or more keys that are specific for the device, wherein the keys are stored in a trusted security zone on the mobile device. In some embodiments, the keys may be associated with a specific ticket provider. The keys may be used to processes one or more datasets received from a ticket provider, wherein processing the dataset(s) may generate a digital ticket. The ticket may be generated and stored in the trusted security zone of the mobile device. The mobile device may be operable to present the ticket via the user interface of the mobile device and/or a near field communication transceiver of the mobile device.
US09118652B2 Detecting and modifying security settings for deploying web applications
Various implementations are described herein for detecting and modifying security settings on a computing device to run a web application using a web browser. A loader application detects security settings on the computing device, determines if the security settings will allow the web application to run and function correctly on the computing device, and if necessary, modifies the security settings to allow the web application to run and operate successfully. Further, described herein are techniques for facilitating communication between components corresponding to a web application running in a web browser and external resources.
US09118649B2 Method and system for an electronic device with integrated security module
Methods and systems for processing Ethernet data are disclosed and may comprise receiving Ethernet data via a single gigabit Ethernet IP telephone chip. A secure application key may be received from a secure server by an OSM integrated within the gigabit Ethernet IP telephone chip for processing the received Ethernet data. The received Ethernet data may be processed by the gigabit Ethernet IP telephone chip based on the received secure application key. A unique security identifier internal to the single gigabit Ethernet IP telephone chip may be communicated off-chip to the secure server. The unique security identifier may identify the single gigabit Ethernet IP telephone chip. The secure server may authenticate the gigabit Ethernet IP telephone chip based on the unique security identifier internal to the single gigabit Ethernet IP telephone chip, prior to the receiving of the secure application key.
US09118648B2 Method for authorizing access to protected content
The invention refers to a method for authorizing access to a third party application, called client (2), to protected resources owned by a user (1) and hosted in a server (3). The method comprising: the client being used by the user asking for a temporary token to the server; the server sending a first SMS to the user, said first SMS providing means to authenticate the user; authenticating the user by the means provided in previous two steps; the user authorizing the client; the server sending a second SMS to the user providing some information needed to obtain an access token; the client getting the information of the previous step from the user and the access token; the client accessing protected resources using the access token.
US09118646B2 Network security and fraud detection system and method
A system and method to detect and prevent fraud in a system is provided. The system may uniquely identify physical devices connecting to a network, register unique devices, track end-user logins, associate end-user accounts with specific devices, and share information with multiple network service providers is described.
US09118644B2 Method for directing requests to trusted resources
The present invention enables an enterprise to move from an implicitly trusted resource pool to an explicitly authenticated resource pool. Trust information is generally conveyed whenever a new resource is added to the pool and trust information is revoked when a resource is removed from the pool or is unable to provide its advertised resources. The dynamic, event driven conveyance of trust information is particularly important in highly virtualized environments where virtual resources are dynamically scaled up and down in response to resource demand.
US09118642B2 Asset streaming
A device streams assets to network-based storage, and servers administering the network-based storage operate to notify other authorized devices that the assets are available to download, including initiating the download of assets automatically or in response to user input. With streaming enabled on their device, a user is able to make assets, such as digital photograph, video or other type of media file, data file, or other type of electronic content, available immediately to all of their other devices and to other users having permission to follow assets streamed by their device. Servers secure access to the stream of assets, on both an account level and an asset level in accordance with asset metadata registered for the assets during streaming.