| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09128802B2 |
Automated call center software build generator
A call center (CC) generator includes generator software (GSW) executing on a computerized appliance from a machine-readable physical medium, an input interface for receiving a CC configuration, access to a data repository storing CC software components, a function relating configuration parameters to individual ones of the stored CC software components, and an output interface for delivering a CC SW suite. The CC generator, executing the GSW, considers the CC configuration, applies the relating function, selects CC software components to copy from the data repository, and builds the CC SW suite for output. |
| US09128800B2 |
Personalized platform for accessing internet applications
The present invention provides a system and method for providing a personalized platform for accessing internet applications. According to one embodiment of the invention, a social network provider receives a request for installation of an application from a user of the social network, installs the application at multiple points in the user's social network environment, and personalizes interfaces with the application at these integration points based on information about the user available from the social network. The present invention enables applications to be integrated in the social network environment at multiple integration points and to be personalized for and configured by the user. |
| US09128799B2 |
Programmatic creation of task sequences from manifests
Method, apparatuses, and systems are described for receiving, by a computer, data representing a first manifest and a second manifest, the first manifest identifying at least some of a plurality of software components and the second manifest identifying at least some of the plurality of software components; determining a first one of the software components that is identified by the second manifest and not identified by the first manifest; generating, by the computer, a task sequence comprising instructions for installing the first one of the software components to a software stack; and recording, by the computer, data representing the task sequence to a computer-readable medium. |
| US09128796B2 |
Enabling a wireless device to act as a relay for upgrading an accessory coupled to the wireless device
A system and method for updating an accessory device are described. A software upgrade for upgrading an accessory device is received from a wireless network at a wireless device. In response, it is automatically determined at the wireless device whether the accessory device is in communication with the wireless device. Upon determining that the accessory device is in communication with the wireless device, the software upgrade is forwarded from the wireless device to the accessory device to enable upgrade of the accessory device according to the software upgrade. |
| US09128789B1 |
Executing cross-cutting concerns for client-server remote procedure calls
Systems and methods for implementing cross-cutting actions that cut across many remote procedure calls (RPCs) in an interactive application, such as location-based parallel reality game are provided. In particular, one or more decorators can be associated in a source file, such as a Java source file, with a remote procedure call class defining a plurality of RPC methods for the interactive application. Each decorator can be a set of instructions that gets executed before and after an RPC method and addresses concerns that cut across a plurality of RPC methods for the interactive application. |
| US09128785B2 |
System and method for efficient shared buffer management
A method for managing a shared buffer between a data processing system and a network. The method provides a communication interface unit for managing bandwidth of data between the data processing system and an external communicating interface connecting to the network. The method performs, by the communication interface unit, a combined de-queue and head drop operation on at least one data packet queue within a predefined number of clock cycles. The method also performs, by the communication interface unit, an en-queue operation on the at least one data packet queue in parallel with the combined de-queue operation and head drop operation within the predefined number of clock cycles. |
| US09128783B1 |
Scheduling and executing model components in response to un-modeled events detected during an execution of the model
A device may receive a model including a group of blocks, and may receive a command to execute the model. The device may assign a parameter sample time to a subset of blocks of the group of blocks. The parameter sample time may permit a block, of the subset of blocks, to be executed based on a parameter change event detected during the execution of the model. The device may cause the model to be executed after assigning the parameter sample time to the subset of blocks. The device may detect a parameter change event, associated with the model, prior to the execution of the model being completed. The parameter change event may include an event that is external to the execution of the model. The device may cause at least one block, of the subset of blocks, to be executed based on the detecting the parameter change event. |
| US09128781B2 |
Processor with memory race recorder to record thread interleavings in multi-threaded software
A processor includes a first core to execute a first software thread, a second core to execute a second software thread, and shared memory access monitoring and recording logic. The logic includes memory access monitor logic to monitor accesses to memory by the first thread, record memory addresses of the monitored accesses, and detect data races involving the recorded memory addresses with other threads. The logic includes chunk generation logic is to generate chunks to represent committed execution of the first thread. Each of the chunks is to include a number of instructions of the first thread executed and committed and a time stamp. The chunk generation logic is to stop generation of a current chunk in response to detection of a data race by the memory access monitor logic. A chunk buffer is to temporarily store chunks until the chunks are transferred out of the processor. |
| US09128780B2 |
Validating license servers in virtualized environments
The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for validating license servers in virtualized environments. Embodiments of the invention leverage a set of features acquired or built in cloud computing environments to facilitate a software based solution providing uniqueness and immutability of a license server hosted in the cloud. Avoiding features of the underlying hardware systems results a much more flexible and reliable platform for hosting license servers. Features of a cloud storage service can be used to create a unique ID for a license server. Security and reliability of license servers hosted in a pubic cloud environment is also improved. |
| US09128772B2 |
Performance optimization through run-time quality governance
The present invention provides a method and system for optimizing the performance of a service according to the load on the service. The invention includes altering the quality of various sub-ordinate services that are a part of the service and in turn achieving systemic service performance levels that satisfy prescribed service level agreements. |
| US09128770B2 |
Systems and methods for GSLB auto synchronization
Centralized system for synchronizing a Global Server Load Balancing (GSLB) site hierarchy across a plurality of appliances in a multi-site deployment. With synchronization, differences in configurations across appliances may be determined and changes to configurations may automatically be distributed and applied on each appliance at each site to operate all the sites with a common single GSLB site hierarchy configuration. This reduces the challenging in configuration maintenance for the multi-site deployment. |
| US09128766B1 |
Computer workload redistribution schedule
A computer system has a capacity planner for creating and updating a workload redistribution schedule. A migration utility provides for redistribution of the workloads. A redistribution orchestrator directs, according to the schedule, the migration utility to implement the workload redistributions. |
| US09128765B2 |
Assigning restored virtual machine based on past application usage of requesting user
A method of sharing virtual machine resources. The method includes: in response to at least one user logging in to the virtual machine, monitoring file operations taken by the user in the virtual machine; recording the types of file operations; in response to the user logging out from the virtual machine, restoring the virtual machine back to the original state at the time when the user logged in to the virtual machine according to the recorded types of file operations; and in response to receiving a request for virtual machine resources, assigning one of the virtual machines which is idle and restored back to the original state to the requesting user. |
| US09128764B2 |
System and method for providing flexibility in configuring HTTP load balancing in a traffic director environment
Described herein are systems and methods for use with a load balancer or traffic director, and administration thereof, wherein the traffic director is provided as a software-based load balancer that can be used to deliver a fast, reliable, scalable, and secure platform for load-balancing Internet and other traffic to back-end origin servers, such as web servers, application servers, or other resource servers. In accordance with an embodiment, the system comprises a high-speed network infrastructure which provides communication protocols or sockets for use by the origin servers in receiving requests; one or more protocol terminator/emulators for use with the communication protocols or sockets; and an inbound socket configuration and an outbound socket configuration which together indicate which terminator/emulator the traffic director should use in communicating requests to particular ones of the origin servers. |
| US09128757B2 |
Method and lightweight mechanism for mixed-critical applications
A system and method for scheduling the execution of multiple mixed-criticality software applications on the same processor. The method separates higher critical, but lower operational rate, software applications into multiple segments so that the separated segments cause the lower rate applications to have a higher rate so that they operate before the lower critical software applications. Alternately, the method increases the length of a lower critical, but higher frequency, software application so that the software application has a lower frequency than the more critical application so that the more critical application has a higher priority. |
| US09128754B2 |
Resource starvation management in a computer system
Provided is a method of managing resource starvation in a computer system. A highest priority task is created in a computer system. The highest priority task identifies a resource starvation causing task in the computer system and reduces current priority of the starvation causing task. |
| US09128752B2 |
Method for the deterministic execution and synchronization of an information processing system comprising a plurality of processing cores executing system tasks
An information processing system includes two processing cores. The execution of an application by the system includes the execution of application tasks and the execution of system tasks, and the system includes a micro-kernel executing the system tasks, which are directly linked to hardware resources. The processing system includes a computation part of the micro-kernel executing system tasks relating to the switching of the tasks on a first core, and a control part of the micro-kernel executing, on a second core, system tasks relating to the control of the task allocation order on the first core. |
| US09128751B2 |
Schema-based link processing
An apparatus includes a processing unit configured to determine, using a control application, a type of schema of a selected link. When the schema is of a first type, the control application causes processing associated with the selected link to be performed by a content display module. When the schema is of a second type, the control application causes processing associated with the selected link to be performed by a module different from the content display module. The processing unit can be configured to run an operating system, a control application, and a content display module, such that the control application is interposed between the operating system and the content display module. The control application can determine a type of schema of a selected link. |
| US09128750B1 |
System and method for supporting multi-threaded transactions
A system that supports multi-threaded transactions includes one or more processors configured to speculatively execute a first thread in a first transaction and speculatively execute a second thread concurrently with the first thread in a comparable transaction with respect to the first transaction. It further includes one or more memories coupled to the one or more processors, configured to provide the one or more processors with data storage. An uncommitted value written by the first thread while executing in the first transaction is visible to the second thread executing in the comparable transaction. |
| US09128748B2 |
Parallel simulation using multiple co-simulators
A method includes accepting a simulation task for simulation by a simulator that controls multiple co-simulators. Each of the multiple co-simulators is assigned to execute one or more respective sub-tasks of the simulation task. The simulation task is executed by invoking each co-simulator to execute the respective assigned sub-tasks. |
| US09128746B2 |
Asynchronous unmap of thinly provisioned storage for virtual machines
In a computer system having virtual machines running therein, a hypervisor that supports execution of the virtual machines allocates blocks of storage to the virtual machines from a thinly provisioned logical block device. When the hypervisor deletes a file or receives commands to delete a file, the hypervisor moves the file into a delete directory. An unmap thread running in the background issues unmap commands to the storage device to release one or more blocks of the logical block device that are allocated to the files in the delete directory, so that the unmap operation can be executed asynchronously with respect to the file delete event. |
| US09128744B2 |
Generating user-requested virtual machine templates from super virtual machine templates and cacheable patches
Techniques for creating a virtual machine super template to create a user-requested virtual machine template. A method includes identifying at least one virtual machine super template to be created via analyzing at least one existing template in a repository and/or a user-defined combination of software, creating the super template by installing software requested by the user to be within the super template, and creating a user-requested virtual machine template by un-installing software from the super template that is not required in the user-requested template and/or adding software to the super template required in the user-requested template that is not present in the super template. |
| US09128736B1 |
Common scheduling and synchronization primitives
Described are techniques for executing code performing one or more operations corresponding to scheduling and synchronization primitives. During execution of the code, a call is performed using an application programming interface requesting a first of the operations corresponding to one of said scheduling and synchronization primitives. During runtime in response to said call, it is determined whether to perform the first operation. The determining step uses a set of one or more criteria indicating conditions as to when the scheduling and synchronization primitives are allowed to be performed. The one or more criteria are determined in accordance with a plurality of different platforms. If it is determined that the first operation is allowable and the first operation is to be performed, then the code can be executed on each of the different platforms in a privileged execution mode and a non-privileged execution mode. |
| US09128732B2 |
Selective randomization for non-deterministically compiled code
A method and an apparatus for runtime compilation that generates non-deterministic and unpredictable code to protect against un-trusted code attacks are described. The runtime compilation may be based on heuristic rules without requiring deterministic behavior reduction operations for all the code generated. The heuristic rules may include estimations on, for example, runtime overhead or cost incurred for code protection, amount of code protection required and/or other applicable factors and their relationships. |
| US09128725B2 |
Load-store dependency predictor content management
Methods and apparatuses for managing load-store dependencies in an out-of-order processor. A load store dependency predictor may include a table for storing entries for load-store pairs that have been found to be dependent and execute out of order. Each entry in the table includes a counter to indicate a strength of the dependency prediction. If the counter is above a threshold, a dependency is enforced for the load-store pair. If the counter is below the threshold, the dependency is not enforced for the load-store pair. When a store is dispatched, the table is searched, and any matching entries in the table are armed. If a load is dispatched, matches on an armed entry, and the counter is above the threshold, then the load will wait to issue until the corresponding store issues. |
| US09128724B2 |
Configuring assembly of a system using supplied architectural artifacts
The configuration of a system is programmatically determined. More particularly, these determinations are made using architecture artifacts that describe requirements of the system (which may be comprised of software, hardware, services, or some combination thereof), where these requirements are iteratively compared to characteristics of available components. A percentage of match is preferably computed, thus allowing for complete matches as well as partial matches. A weighting factor may be applied to attributes, effectively prioritizing attributes in view of their relative importance in the assembled system. When more than one component is a candidate for meeting a particular requirement, user input may be obtained to select one of the candidates. One or more attributes (such as cost information) of each candidate, including how well that candidate matched requirements, may be included for each candidate presented for user selection. The model may be updated and re-evaluated iteratively. |
| US09128719B2 |
Controlling circuit with power saving mechanism and method thereof
A controlling circuit supporting a power saving mechanism includes: a transmitting interface arranged to perform a signal transmission with a specific controlling circuit; and a setting unit coupled to the transmitting interface. The setting unit is arranged to control the specific controlling circuit to operate in the power saving mechanism. |
| US09128718B1 |
Suspend using internal rewriteable memory
Power consumption while in a low power suspend mode is enhanced by placing a portion of suspend and resume instructions into internal rewriteable memory, such as internal random access memory (“IRAM”). During entry into suspend, control is transferred from instructions stored in an external memory to instructions stored within the internal rewriteable memory. These instructions are configured to reduce power consumption of the external memory by reducing a slew rate, drive strength, and so forth. Upon awakening from suspend, the instructions within the internal rewriteable memory place the external memory back to an operational state and control passes back to the instructions stored within external memory. |
| US09128717B2 |
Data processing system with thermal control
Various embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for a data processing system with thermal control. For example, a data processing system with thermal control is disclosed that includes a number of data processors and a scheduler, which is operable to determine the power consumption of the data processors and to switch the data processing system from a first mode to a second mode and from the second mode to a third mode. The data processing system consumes less power in the third mode than in the first mode. The second mode prepares the data processing system to enter the third mode. |
| US09128716B2 |
Memory device and control method
A memory device and a control method are disclosed herein. The memory device includes a delay locked loop module, a memory bank module and a control module. The delay locked loop module is configured to generate a system clock signal when enabled by a control signal. The memory bank module is configured to read or write data signals in accordance with the system clock signal and a read command or a write command. The control module configured to receive at least one control command to generate the control signal, wherein the control module disables the delay locked loop module, when the memory bank module goes to a precharge mode or a powerdown mode. |
| US09128715B2 |
Storage system data hardening
A bridge receives a power down command and in response converts the power down command to a data hardening command. The bridge issues the data hardening command to a solid state disk. In response to the data hardening command, data stored on the solid state disk is hardened. The hardening comprises writing data in volatile memory to non-volatile memory. The data that is hardened comprises user data and protected data. The data hardening command optionally comprises one or more of a flush cache command, a sleep command, and a standby immediate command. |
| US09128712B2 |
Electronic device including touch-sensitive display and method of detecting touches
An electronic device includes a touch controller, sense electrodes operably coupled to the touch controller, a display controller operably coupled to the touch controller to communicate with the touch controller to detect touches, and drive electrodes operably coupled to the touch controller when the electronic device is operating in a reduced power condition and operably coupled to the display controller when the electronic device is operating in a normal power condition. |
| US09128705B2 |
System and method for controlling central processing unit power with reduced frequency oscillations
A method of dynamically controlling power within a central processing unit is disclosed and may include entering an idle state, reviewing a previous busy cycle immediately prior to the idle state, and based on the previous busy cycle determining a CPU frequency for a next busy cycle. |
| US09128703B1 |
Processor that transitions to an idle mode when no task is scheduled to execute and further enters a quiescent doze mode or a wait mode depending on the value of a reference counter
A quiescent doze mode permits significant reductions in power consumption and dissipation by electronic devices while idle without producing adverse latencies to users. Device drivers communicate predictions as to future use of their coupled devices with a kernel. The kernel may then enter a quiescent doze mode comprising gating clocks on the processor and peripherals, disabling interrupts, and executing a wait for interrupt. Dynamically increasing timer interrupt intervals to significant fractions or multiples of a second further increases the percentage of time the device remains in quiescent doze mode. |
| US09128701B2 |
Generating constant for microinstructions from modified immediate field during instruction translation
An ISA-defined instruction includes an immediate field having a first and second portions specifying first and second values, which instructs the microprocessor to perform an operation using a constant value as one of its source operands. The constant value is the first value rotated/shifted by a number of bits based on the second value. An instruction translator translates the instruction into one or more microinstructions. An execution pipeline executes the microinstructions generated by the instruction translator. The instruction translator, rather than the execution pipeline, generates the constant value for the execution pipeline as a source operand of at least one of the microinstructions for execution by the execution pipeline. Alternatively, if the immediate field value is not within a predetermined subset of values known by the instruction translator, the instruction translator generates, rather than the constant, a second microinstruction for execution by the execution pipeline to generate the constant. |
| US09128698B2 |
Systems, apparatuses, and methods for performing rotate and XOR in response to a single instruction
Disclosed herein are systems, apparatuses, and methods performing in a computer processor of performing a rotate and XOR in response to a single XOR and rotate instruction, wherein the rotate and XOR instruction includes a first and second source operand, a destination operand, and an immediate value. |
| US09128696B1 |
Method and system for generating script for a virtual connect configuration of a blade enclosure
A system and method for generating command scripts for profile configurations of an Hewlett Packard Virtual Connect Blade enclosure, by parsing a show-all report of the domain, generating a configuration script that includes configuration statements for static entities of the domain; and generating a configuration script that includes configuration statements for dynamic entities of the domain. |
| US09128695B2 |
Remote access appliance with backup power system
A remote access appliance (“appliance”) having a backup power subsystem for powering a digital rack interface pod (“DRIP”) that is interfacing the appliance to a remote device. The backup power subsystem may involve the use of at least one shunt regulator subsystem that is adapted to control backup power to the DRIP in the event the DRIP loses power from a USB port of the remote device while a session is in progress with the remote device. The backup power subsystem automatically applies and regulates the power available to the power pins on the RJ-45 port of the appliance to power the DRIP. In the event the DRIP is unplugged form the RJ-45 port of the appliance while backup power is being drawn by the DRIP, the backup power subsystem virtually immediately removes power being applied to the predetermined pins of the RJ-45 port of the appliance. The backup power sub system further will not make power available to the power pins of the RJ-45 port on the appliance unless predetermined operating conditions are present with the DRIP. |
| US09128690B2 |
Bus pin reduction and power management
A reduced-pin bus system includes a bus having one or more signal lines that are coupled to a bus power supply through a current limiting device. A master unit is coupled to the bus and is arranged to transmit communications across the bus during an active period of the bus and to initiate communications during (and/or at the end of) a quiescent period of the bus. A slave unit is coupled to the bus and is arranged to couple power from the one or more signal lines to a capacitor during the quiescent period of the bus and to consume power from the capacitor during the active period of the bus. |
| US09128689B2 |
Phase-based operation of devices on a polyphase electric distribution system
In one embodiment, a device in a computer network monitors an alternating-current (AC) waveform of an electrical power source at the device, where the power source is part of a polyphase power source system. Once the device determines a particular phase of the polyphase power source system at the device, then the device joins a directed acyclic graph (DAG) specific to the particular phase. In another embodiment, a device detects a time of a zero crossing of the AC waveform, and may then determine a particular phase of the polyphase power source system at the device based on the time of the zero crossing relative to a corresponding location within a frequency hopping superframe of the computer network. |
| US09128688B2 |
Method, apparatus and system for device management
A method, apparatus and system for managing a device are provided by the present invention, which relate to the field of communication. The method includes: according to a preset power management rule, determining a power supply policy of each single board in the current device (302); and according to the power supply policy, performing power management on each single board (303). The technical scheme provided by the present invention is applied to the power management of a device with multiple single boards, and the problem of serious energy consumption in redundancy backup is solved. |
| US09128687B2 |
Wireless desktop IT environment
A wireless powered desktop system. |
| US09128686B2 |
Sorting
Systems and techniques are disclosed that include in one aspect a computer implemented method storing a received stream of data elements in a buffer, applying a boundary condition to the data elements stored in the buffer after receiving each individual data element of the stream of data elements, and producing one or more data elements from the buffer based on the boundary condition as an output stream of data elements sorted according to a predetermined order. |
| US09128684B2 |
Tablet case
A case for an electronic device is provided including a sleeve sized and shaped to engage a housing of an electronic device, a bracket sized and shaped to engage the housing of the electronic device and to engage the sleeve; and a thermal pad sized and shaped to fit within the sleeve such that the thermal pad is held in contact with the electronic device when the electronic device is held within the sleeve. |
| US09128682B2 |
Independent removable computer rack power distribution system for high-density clustered computer system
A high performance computing system includes one or more blade enclosures configured to hold a plurality of computing blades, a connection interface, coupled to the one or more blade enclosures, having one or more connectors and a shared power bus that distributes power to the one or more blade enclosures, and at least one power shelf removably coupled to the one or more connectors and configured to hold one or more power supplies. The system may further include the computing blades and the power supplies. The power shelf may include a power distribution board configured to connect the power supplies together on the shared power bus. |
| US09128681B2 |
Liquid submersion cooled power supply system
A liquid submersion cooling system that is suitable for cooling a number of electronic devices in parallel using a plurality of cases connected to a rack system. The system cools heat-generating components in server computers and other devices that use electronic, heat-generating components and are connected in parallel systems. The system includes a housing having an interior space, a dielectric cooling liquid in the interior space, a heat-generating electronic component disposed within the space and submerged in the dielectric cooling liquid. The rack system contains a manifold system to engage and allow liquid transfer for multiple cases and IO connectors to engage electrically with multiple cases/electronic devices. The rack system can be connected to a pump system for pumping the liquid into and out of the rack, to and from external heat exchangers, heat pumps, or other thermal dissipation/recovery devices. |
| US09128680B2 |
Casing structure and electronic device using the same
A casing structure including a frame having a capacity space and a fastener at a side of the capacity space that an electronic unit assembled therein, a first linking member slidably coupled to the frame, and a second linking member pivoted to the frame having a first and a second end is provided. The first end is linked to the first linking member and the second end faces to the electronic unit in the space. The electronic unit is locked by the fastener in assembling mode and the first linking member is located at a first position to block the fastener from releasing the electronic unit. The first linking member is forced to move out of the first position and drive the second linking member to rotate relative to the frame, such that the second end pushes the electronic unit to be released from the fastener in disassembling mode. |
| US09128679B2 |
Slot and memory module for a slot standing interconnect
According to exemplary embodiments, a controlled-depth slot extending into a circuit board is provided. The controlled depth slot may be milled, and may comprise ½ radial plated through-holes to generate a solderable “D” interconnect feature. The slot may include interconnect features on one to five sides. According to another exemplary embodiment, a circuit board having a depth-controlled interconnect slot is provided in conjunction with one or more solderable technology modules. The one or more solderable technology modules may include memory devices, power devices such as Point of Load Supplies (POLS), security devices and anti-tamper devices, capacitance devices, and other types of chips such as Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs). The solderable technology modules may be soldered into the slot to secure the modules in the slot and connect the modules to interconnects on the circuit board. |
| US09128678B2 |
Cabinet-level server and its centralized power supply shielding structure
The present invention discloses a centralized power supply shielding structure of a cabinet-level server, where the structure includes multiple plug-in frames, a power supply copper bar which is configured to supply power to the multiple plug-in frames, and an inner container shielding can. Multiple plugs of the power supply copper bar are correspondingly inserted into the multiple plug-in frames to supply power to the multiple plug-in frames in a centralized way. The inner container shielding can wraps on a periphery of the power supply copper bar to shield the multiple plug-in frames from the power supply copper bar. The cabinet-level server and its centralized power supply shielding structure of the present invention implement a shielding structure for centralized power supply by a copper bar of integration of a frame and a cabinet, which can be applied in an application scene of an open rack and has a simple structural design. |
| US09128670B2 |
Removable battery of computing device
A computing device including a mounting component at a panel of the computing device to couple with a docking stand for a removable battery of the computing device to electrically couple and receive power from the docking stand and the removable battery supplies power to the computing device if the computing device decouples from the docking stand. |
| US09128668B2 |
Multiple suction cup attachment platform: securing an electronic device on a vertical surface
A mounting apparatus permits easy and quick attachment and removal of the apparatus securing a portable device to smooth surfaces, or objects. An injection molded platform which allows multiple suction cups to be attached to secure a portable electronic device such as a smart phone, cellular phone, tablet, e-reader, or other digital media device to a smooth surface, or object. The primary platform is an injection molded part specifically designed to accommodate the insertion of mini suction cups, small suction cups, and medium suction cups. The injection molded platform contains multiple openings specifically designed to allow the attachment of an array of suction cups, and alternative mechanisms including kickstand assembly, elastic straps or cording. It is a further object of the invention to provide a platform apparatus that can be attached to smooth surfaces for different sized devices with touch screen capabilities, and devices with camera and video functions. |
| US09128667B2 |
Protective cover for slot and screen of mobile terminal
A protective cover for a slot and a screen provided in a mobile terminal is provided. The protective cover for a slot and a screen of a mobile terminal having a window at a front surface, having a slot in a recess formed in a predetermined depth at an upper portion of a rear surface, and mounts an injection and discharge element in the slot includes: a slot protective cover for covering the injection and discharge element and fastened to the recess; and a screen protective cover extended in a length for covering the window from the slot protective cover and for rotating to the front surface or the rear surface using one side surface of the mobile terminal as a central axis. |
| US09128666B2 |
Housing for portable electronic device with reduced border region
An electronic device having a housing structure that is configured to receive at least one glass cover is disclosed. The glass cover serves to cover a display assembly provided within the electronic device. The glass cover can be secured to the housing structure so as to facilitate providing a narrow border between an active display area and an outer edge of the housing structure. The enclosure for the electronic device can be thin yet be sufficiently strong to be suitable for use in electronic devices, such as portable electronic devices. |
| US09128664B1 |
Invertible clamshell notebook computer
A computing device is provided herein. For instance, the computing device comprises base and lid assemblies, and a connector. The base assembly includes a base housing, a first hinge portion attached to the housing, a keyboard, a touch-based input surface, and an electronic component within the housing. The housing includes a first surface at least partly surrounding the keyboard and touch-based input, and a second opposing surface. The lid assembly includes a lid housing, a second hinge portion, and a display, and includes a first surface at least partly surrounding the display and a second surface opposite the first surface. The connector has a third hinge portion, a fourth hinge portion and a body extending therebetween. The third hinge portion is rotatably affixed to the first hinge portion of the base assembly, and the fourth hinge portion is rotatably affixed to the second hinge portion of the lid assembly. |
| US09128662B2 |
Solid state drive memory system
A solid-state drive architecture and arrangement for standardized disk drive form factors, PCI type memory cards and general motherboard memory. The solid-state drive architecture is modular in that a main printed circuit board (PCB) of the memory system includes a host interface connector, a memory controller, and connectors. Each connector can removably receive a memory blade, where each memory blade includes a plurality of memory devices serially connected to each other via a serial interface. Each memory blade includes a physical serial interface for providing data and control signals to a first memory device in the serial chain and for receiving data and control signals from a last memory device in the serial chain. Each memory blade can be sized in length and width to accommodate any number of memory devices on either side thereof. |
| US09128656B2 |
Information processing system, information processing apparatus, and information processing method for avoiding overlap of logs
An information processing system that includes: a job execution apparatus; an information processing apparatus configured to send a job to the job execution apparatus; and an information management apparatus configured to store log information of the job, the information processing apparatus including: a job sending unit configured to send identification information of each job to the job execution apparatus with the job; and a first log sending unit configured to send the log information of the job to the information management apparatus by including the identification information into the log information, and the job execution apparatus including: a second log sending unit configured to include the identification information into the log information of the job, and to send the log information to the information management apparatus, wherein the information management apparatus integrates pieces of log information having common identification information, and stores the integrated log information. |
| US09128655B2 |
Information processing apparatus, system and method for determining whether to display error information
A reception unit receives, in a case where an error has occurred in an image forming apparatus during execution of a designated job, error information indicating that the error has occurred. An acquisition unit acquires information indicating that it is designated to skip the error and to execute the job in the image forming apparatus. A determination unit determines, in a case where the acquisition unit acquires the information, whether or not to continue to display the error information depending on a type of the error. A control unit continues, in a case where the determination unit determines that the error information is continued to be displayed, to display the error information, and ceases, in a case where the determination unit determines that the error information is not continued to be displayed, to display the error information. |
| US09128653B2 |
Systems and methods for processing print jobs
An implementation of a print job processing sub-system includes a first bundle configured for rendering print jobs for a first print device and a second bundle configured for rendering print jobs for a second print device. The sub-system also includes a regionally-aware component configured to direct print jobs to the first or second bundles. |
| US09128650B2 |
Data processing apparatus, information processing system, control method for the same, and storage medium storing a program
A job execution instruction is received from an information processing apparatus, an environment variable instructed in the job execution instruction is acquired, and an environment variable management table is searched for an environment variable definition that corresponds to the acquired environment variable. An apparatus that is in the network and holds a value that is to replace the environment variable is selected based on an environment variable definition that was searched, the value that is to replace the environment variable is acquired from the selected apparatus, and the environment variable is replaced with the value. |
| US09128649B2 |
Control apparatus, control method, and computer-readable recording medium that obtain position data of a wireless terminal
A control apparatus is disclosed that may communicate with a wireless terminal and an information processing device. The control apparatus includes a first obtaining unit configured to obtain position data of the wireless terminal; a second obtaining unit configured to obtain state information about the information processing device; a determining unit configured to make a determination that the position data obtained by the first obtaining unit indicates a predetermined location and the state information obtained by the second obtaining unit indicates a predetermined state; and a transmission unit configured to transmit to the information processing device a control signal causing the information processing device to execute predetermined processing in response to the determination made by the determining unit. |
| US09128644B2 |
Image processing system including an image processing apparatus and a portable terminal
The position and orientation at a time of shooting by a shooting unit of a portable terminal is transmitted to an information processing apparatus. Based on the transmitted position and orientation of the portable terminal and the stored position of an image processing apparatus, the information processing apparatus extracts an image processing apparatus from the shot image and transmits information about the extracted image processing apparatus to the portable terminal. The portable terminal combines the shot image with an option for selecting a function available in the image processing apparatus and displays the combined image on a display unit, based on the information transmitted from the information processing apparatus. When selection of a function is accepted, a screen for operating the selected function is displayed on the display unit of the portable terminal. |
| US09128643B2 |
Method and apparatus performing clock extraction utilizing edge analysis upon a training sequence equalization pattern
A method and apparatus for performing clock extraction are provided. The method includes: performing edge analysis on a Training Sequence Equalization (TSEQ) pattern carried by a set of received signals that are received from a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port of an electronic device, to dynamically generate a plurality of analysis results; and performing frequency calibration on a frequency of an output clock of a Numerically Controlled Oscillator (NCO) according to a frequency that different types of analysis results within the plurality of analysis results alternatively occur, to utilize the output clock as a reference clock after completing the frequency calibration. More particularly, the method further includes: generating a set of de-multiplexed signals respectively corresponding to a plurality of bits, to perform the edge analysis by comparing respective voltage levels of de-multiplexed signals corresponding to every two adjacent bits of the plurality of bits within the set of de-multiplexed signals. |
| US09128641B2 |
Parameter setting apparatus and method for automotive open system architecture-based software
The present invention discloses a parameter setting apparatus and method for AUTOSAR-based software, which may lead a user to set parameters at suitable times depending on the variant attributes of parameters. In the parameter setting method, a selection of a variant attribute of a parameter of a metamodel defined to design AUTOSAR-based software is received from a user. If the variant attribute selected by the user corresponds to a variant-pre-compile attribute, setting of only a parameter having the variant-pre-compile attribute is allowed. If the variant attribute selected by the user corresponds to a variant-link attribute, setting of only a parameter having either one of the variant-pre-compile attribute and the variant-link attribute is allowed. If the variant attribute selected by the user corresponds to a variant-post-build attribute, setting of only a parameter having any one of the variant-pre-compile attribute, the variant-link attribute, and the variant-post-build attribute is allowed. |
| US09128639B1 |
Scheduling commands in a dependent array of disk drives
An array of disk drives is disclosed comprising a controller, a plurality of disk drives, wherein the controller is configured to transmit a first access command out of a group of access commands to a first disk drive in the array; transmit a plurality of the access commands out of the group of access commands to other disk drives in the array; and transmit a completion status to the first disk drive, wherein the completion status identifies a status of the plurality of access commands transmitted to the other disk drives. |
| US09128637B2 |
Logical unit operation
The present disclosure includes methods and devices for logical unit operation. One device embodiment includes a number of logical units, wherein each of the number of logical units has a unique address. The device includes control circuitry coupled to the number of logical units and configured optionally to control more than one of the number of logical units with one of a number of commands and one address. |
| US09128631B2 |
Storage enclosure bridge detection
A method for detecting an improper storage system configuration is provided. The method includes receiving, within a first switch, an indication of a configuration change of a storage system. The method also includes performing device discovery to identify devices operatively coupled to the first switch. The method also includes receiving a storage device identifier of a storage device operatively coupled to the first switch. The method also includes searching a repository for the storage device identifier to determine whether the storage device is managed by a second switch. |
| US09128628B1 |
Dynamic replication mode switching
A method, system, and computer program product for data replication, comprising dynamically changing between snapshot hot push and continuous replication; wherein snapshot hot push denotes a replication mode where a snapshot is pushed from the production site to the replication site while IO occurs to the production site. |
| US09128626B2 |
Distributed virtual storage cloud architecture and a method thereof
The present disclosure relates to a distributed information storage system which functions as virtual cloud storage overlay on top of physical cloud storage systems. The disclosure discloses transparently solving all the data management related security, virtualization, reliability and enables transparent cloud storage migration, cloud storage virtualization, information dispersal and integration across disparate cloud storage devices operated by different providers or on-premise storage. The cloud storage is owned or hosted by same or different third-party providers who own the information contained in the storage which eliminates cloud dependencies. This present disclosure functions as a distributed cloud storage delivery platform enabling various functionalities like cloud storage virtualization, cloud storage integration, cloud storage management and cloud level RAID. |
| US09128620B2 |
Non-volatile memory with write protection data structure with write latency improvements
A data storage device includes a write protection data structure that includes a first set of entries corresponding to a first set of ranges of memory addresses. A first indication stored in an entry, in the first set of entries, corresponds to an absence of write-protected data between a lowest address of the range of addresses corresponding to the entry and a highest address of a memory. A second indication stored in the entry corresponds to write-protected data within the range of addresses. The data storage device also includes a write protection map that includes a second set of entries corresponding to a second set of ranges of the memory addresses. The device is configured to locate, in the write protection data structure, an entry corresponding to a range of memory addresses. |
| US09128617B2 |
Writing multiple files simultaneously to a tape media
In one embodiment, a method includes storing data received from at least two data sources in a buffer, writing the data from the at least two data sources to regions in a first wrap of a tape on a data-source basis in a first predetermined order, and writing the data from the at least two data sources to regions in the second wrap in a second predetermined order, the second predetermined order being a reverse order relative to the first predetermined order. |
| US09128615B2 |
Storage systems that create snapshot queues
A storage system may include a queue included in a memory and a controller configured to store commands received from a host in the queue. The queue may have a linked-list configuration. In response to a triggering event, the controller may take a snapshot of the queue, creating a snapshot queue. The snapshot queue may have a linear configuration. Subsequent analysis or parsing of queued information may be performed on the linear snapshot queue instead of the linked-list queue. Modifications to the linear snapshot queue may be corresponding made to the linked-list queue. |
| US09128611B2 |
Apparatus and method for interactive display with tactile feedback
An electronic device including an interactive display having a first mode and a second mode. The interactive display includes an image display device that displays a first user-interactive imaged keypad when the interactive display is in the first mode, and that displays a second user-interactive imaged keypad when the interactive display is in the second mode, and a substantially transparent keypad including physical keys permanently formed within the display so that the keypad provides tactile feedback to a user indicating location of keys within the first and second imaged keypads. |
| US09128609B2 |
Touch interpretive architecture and touch interpretive method by using multi-fingers gesture to trigger application program
This invention is related to a touch interpretive architecture of multi-fingers gesture to trigger an application program and a touch interpretive method thereof used in the same for interpreting a multi-fingers gesture applied to a touch pad and then acquiring some hot-key messages of at least an application program so as to trigger the application program according to the hot-key messages. |
| US09128600B2 |
Display control apparatus and method, image display apparatus, and non-transitory computer readable medium
A display control apparatus includes a controller. While a plurality of images is displayed on a display including a display region with a surface on which a touch panel is provided, in response to an approaching operation, performed via the touch panel, of specifying at least one image and causing at least two of the plurality of images to come closer to each other, the controller superimposes and displays approaching images, for which the approaching operation is performed, over each other. |
| US09128598B2 |
Device and method for processing user input
A method for generating display data comprises detecting user input via an input interface. A processor is in communication with the input interface to generate display data comprising a display object for display by a display device. The display object is representative of an action that will subsequently be performed by the processor on continuation of the user input. The display data on the display device is output while the user input is being detected. Alternatively, the display object is caused to appear on the display device over time as the user input is being performed, wherein the rate at which the display object appears is different to the rate of performance of the user input. A device and executable computer program for performing the steps of the method is also provided. |
| US09128592B2 |
Displaying graphical representations of contacts
Techniques for displaying graphical representations of contacts are described. In accordance with one or more embodiments, a group of graphical representations of contacts is displayed at a first size in a display region. In response to a selection of a subgroup of the graphical representations, the subgroup of graphical representations is automatically resized to fit in the display region at a second size. |
| US09128591B1 |
Providing an identifier for presenting content at a selected position
Systems and methods are provided for generating an identifier that identifies a specific position within content. For example, at least a portion of content may be presented in a manner such that any position within the presented content can be selected, such as a specific word or line of text content. A selection may be received indicating a position within the content, where the selection corresponds to a request to generate an identifier that identifies the selected position. In response, an identifier may be generated that includes information identifying the content and the position within the content, such that selection of the identifier causes presentation of a representation of the content at the given position. |
| US09128590B2 |
Contents display device and contents display method
A contents display device includes a display section, a touch detection section, and a control section. The control section includes: a bookmarking determination section for determining, if multiple contacts have been simultaneously detected by the touch detection section, at least one contact among the multiple contacts to be a bookmark; a bookmark-position configuration section for configuring a bookmark position, based on a contact determined by the bookmarking determination section to be a bookmark; and a return-to-bookmark-position determination section for determining, after a bookmark position has been configured by the bookmark-position configuration section, to return the content displayed on the display section to the bookmark position, based on a contact detected by the touch detection section. When the return-to-bookmark-position determination section determines to return to the bookmark position, the content displayed on the display section is returned to the bookmark position. |
| US09128586B2 |
Indicating focus in a portal environment
A method, system and apparatus for indicating input focus in a portal environment. A method for indicating user input focus in a portal environment can include assigning an unfocused style sheet to all unfocused portlets in a portal except for a focused portlet having input focus. A focused style sheet further can be assigned to the focused portlet having input focus. Subsequently, each of the focused and unfocused portlets can be rendered in the portal. Responsive to a new portlet in the portal acquiring the input focus from the focused portlet, the focused style sheet can be re-assigned to the new portlet while the unfocused style sheet can be re-assigned to the focused portlet which no longer has input focus. Subsequently, the new portlet and the focused portlet which no longer has input focus can be re-rendered in the portal according to the style sheets. |
| US09128584B2 |
Multi energy X-ray microscope data acquisition and image reconstruction system and method
A multi energy, such as dual-energy (“DE”), x-ray imaging system data acquisition and image reconstruction system and method enables optimizing the image contrast of a sample. Using the DE x-ray imaging system and its associated user interface applications, an operator performs a low energy (“LE”) and high energy (“HE”) x-ray scan of the same volume of interest of the sample. The system creates a low-energy reconstructed tomographic volume data set from the set of low-energy projections and a high-energy tomographic volume data set from the set of high-energy projections. This enables the operator to control the image contrast of selected slices, and apply the information associated with optimizing the contrast of the selected slice to all slices in the low-energy and high-energy tomographic data sets. This creates a combined volume data set from the LE and HE volume data sets with optimized image contrast throughout. |
| US09128580B2 |
System and method for interacting with a touch screen interface utilizing an intelligent stencil mask
A system and method are provided for employing an intelligent stencil mask to interact with a touch screen interface and thereby reduce the probability of accidental control function activation. A touch screen interface onboard an aircraft is coupled to a processor and is configured to generate a first virtual mask having a first region and a second region. A user interaction is then detected with one of the first region and the second region. A first reconfigured virtual mask is generated if the user interacted with the second region. However, an aircraft control function is activated if the user interacted with the first region. |
| US09128578B2 |
Capacitive type touch sensor with optical functionality
A capacitive type touch sensor has optical functionality, low reflection and thin thickness as well as narrow frames. The capacitive type touch sensor includes a cover glass, and a capacitive type film sensor member adhered to a rear surface of the cover glass. The capacitive type touch sensor further includes a polarization plate between the cover glass and the film sensor member. The film sensor member includes a transparent base sheet having a λ/4 phase difference film, transparent conductive films so as to form electrode pattern s on the central windows and fine line routed circuit pattern on the peripheral frames on both sides of the base sheet, and light-blocking conductive films laminated on the fine line routed circuit patterns of the transparent conductive film. |
| US09128567B2 |
Segmented waveguide core touch sensor systems and methods
Systems and related methods providing for touch sensors having a waveguide reflective array within a major reflective array are discussed herein. A touch sensor may include a substrate configured to propagate surface acoustic waves. The substrate may include a front surface, a back surface including the reflective arrays, and a connecting surface joining the front surface and the back surface. The reflective arrays may be configured to cause the surface acoustic waves to propagate from the back surface, via the connecting surface, to the front surface. The touch censor may further include circuitry configured to determine a coordinate of a touch event on the front surface based on received attenuations in the surface acoustic waves. |
| US09128565B2 |
Ultrasonic wave transmitter device, ultrasonic wave propagation time measurement system and ultrasonic wave propagation time measurement method
An ultrasonic wave transmitter device includes an ultrasonic wave driving circuit that modulates an ultrasonic wave based on a pseudorandom signal to generate an ultrasonic wave driving signal, and an ultrasonic wave transmitter driven by the ultrasonic wave driving signal to send out an ultrasonic wave signal of a frequency higher than a fundamental frequency of the ultrasonic wave driving signal. The ultrasonic wave transmitter includes a cylindrically-shaped piezoelectric or magnetostrictive element sending out the ultrasonic wave signal and an ultrasonic wave absorber that covers part of a base member holding the piezoelectric or magnetostrictive element. |
| US09128564B2 |
Optical touch system and touch sensing method
An optical touch system including a touch surface, a reflection structure and light source modules is provided. The reflection structure and the light source modules are disposed at a periphery of the touch surface. Each light source module has a light-emitting unit and a sensing unit. The sensing unit obtains a brightness value distribution of a sensing light emitted by the light-emitting unit after the sensing light is reflected by the reflection structure, so as to sense touch input. The periphery of the touch surface includes first and second sections. When the light-emitting unit located on the first section emits the sensing light, the sensing light is not reflected by the reflection structure at the light source modules located on the second section so that low-brightness areas are formed, and the light-emitting units of the second group emit compensation lights correspondingly. In addition, a touch sensing method is also provided. |
| US09128562B2 |
Terminal apparatus, display system, display method, and recording medium for switching between pointer mode and touch-panel mode based on handheld activation
To improve ease of operation in a case where a display device and a small terminal apparatus are connected to each other, and coordinated display is performed. When a contact or approach of an object having a size greater than or equal to a threshold value with or toward the surface of a display panel is detected, a video or an instruction corresponding to the motion detected by the motion sensor is output. The display device, on the basis of the video or the instruction that is output, displays a video in which the position of a pointer or the like is changed in response to the motion detected by a motion sensor. |
| US09128559B2 |
Electronic device
The electronic device for executing the predetermined operation based on the press includes a control unit configured to set an execution standard for executing the predetermined operation based on the pressure data and a cancellation standard for canceling the predetermined operation. The control unit sets the cancellation standard to be higher than the execution standard. Also, the control unit sets a plurality of execution standards for executing predetermined operations based on the pressure data and a cancellation standard for canceling the predetermined operations associated with the plurality of execution standards. |
| US09128557B2 |
Display device including a display region where a touch sensor is provided
A first electrode (62c) is provided on a first substrate (2) having a display surface of a display panel, and connected to a common electrode (com). A field effect transistor (62b) is provided on a second substrate (1) in such a manner that the first electrode (62c) is provided in a back channel side of the field effect transistor (62b) so as to be separated from the field effect transistor (62b). The field effect transistor (62b) has a gate terminal and a first drain/source terminal each of which is connected to a first wiring (Vrstn) to which a voltage for reset is to be applied. A switch (62a) has a terminal connected to a second drain/source terminal (62bs), and the other terminal connected to a second wiring (Vom) from which an output of the field effect transistor (62b) is provided. |
| US09128555B2 |
Multi-display device and method for controlling the same
A multi-display device includes: a transparent first touch panel; a second touch panel of which at least a part overlaps the first touch panel; and an operation controller which operates the first and second touch panels. The operation controller senses a touch input of the first and second touch panels to determine and execute a function according to a state of the sensed touch input and an overlapped state of the first and second touch panels. The operation controller may selectively activate first and second functions of first and second touch panels, respectively, according to a touch recognition result and select and execute a third function linked with the first and second functions. |
| US09128552B2 |
Organizing display data on a multiuser display
For organizing display data on a multiuser display, a position module determines a first user position from the disposition of a first touch object on the multiuser display. An organization module organizes the display data on the multiuser display in response to the first user position. |
| US09128550B2 |
Information processing device
Provided is an information processing device which allows a user to provide, regardless of a position or direction of a touch sensor, an operation input to the touch sensor at an arbitrary position or in an arbitrary direction. The information processing device includes two touch sensors each including a detection surface for detecting a position of an object thereon, the two touch sensors being arranged to be opposed to each other, determines at least one of a reference point and a reference axis based on one or a plurality of positions detected by one touch sensor of the two touch sensors, and evaluates a content detected by another touch sensor of the two touch sensors based on the at least one of the determined reference point and the determined reference axis to determine a content of an operation input of a user. |
| US09128547B2 |
Transparent piezoelectric sheet, and transparent piezoelectric sheet-with-a-frame, touch panel, and electronic device each having the transparent piezoelectric sheet
A transparent piezoelectric sheet includes a quadrilateral-shaped transparent piezoelectric film and a first transparent plate electrode. The quadrilateral-shaped transparent piezoelectric film includes an organic polymer. The quadrilateral-shaped transparent piezoelectric film has entire main surfaces that are piezoelectric. The first transparent plate electrode is layered on part of a first main surface of the main surfaces of the transparent piezoelectric film. One to three sides of the four sides of the quadrilateral shape of the transparent piezoelectric film and area(s) of the first main surface adjacent thereto are not covered by the first transparent plate electrode. |
| US09128545B2 |
Touch screen shield
A shield that is attachable to a touch sensitive screen is disclosed. The shield may be attached to the touch sensitive screen only at its outer peripheral portion. An air gap is enclosed between the shield and the touch sensitive screen to form a planar air bearing. The shield preferably does not touch the active area of the touch sensitive screen when the user is not touching the shield but only viewing the touch sensitive screen through the shield. This mitigates unwanted optical artifacts such as trapped air bubbles, Newton rings and chromatic interference while maintaining the sensitivity of the touch sensitive screen. |
| US09128544B2 |
Mobile terminal and control method slidably displaying multiple menu screens
A terminal for simply selecting one of menus in multitasking operation and displaying the selected menu as an entire image on a screen in consideration of user convenience, and its control method are disclosed. The terminal includes a display module; a user input unit configured to detect a touch input; and a controller configured to slide currently executed menus according to a pre-set method if the input touch continues by longer than a particular time, selecting one of executed screen image of the slid menu, and display it as an entirely magnified image. |
| US09128540B2 |
Force sensor for use in an input device and methods for constructing and using the sensor
The disclosure addresses a force sensor that is scalable in size and adaptable to a variety of form factors, including those suitable for use in an input device for a computer or other processing system, and in some cases including those of the configuration normally referred to as a computer mouse. The force sensor will include at least two structural members that are cooperatively attached one another as to be displaced from one another in response to a force acting upon one of the structural members. In some examples, the engagement between the two structural members will be specifically configured to allow such displacement in response to forces acting laterally on the force sensor. The force sensor will also include one or more sensing mechanisms to provide a measurement of the sensed deflection. |
| US09128539B2 |
Ergonomic mouse device with multi-programmable buttons
Pointing devices such as computer mouse are commonly used for making selections on computer screens. However, prolong or frequent use of such pointing devices might result in users suffering from repetitive stress disorder. Further, due to the widespread use of personal computers (PC), this problem is made more even pronounced. In addition, users increasingly require additional buttons to be provided on the computer mouse for purposes such as PC gaming. Although device manufacturers have started building more buttons on existing computer mice, the buttons are typically not ergonomically positioned. An embodiment of the invention describes an ergonomic input device with multi-programmable buttons. |
| US09128537B2 |
Bimanual interactions on digital paper using a pen and a spatially-aware mobile projector
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for providing an end user with a spatially-aware projector combined with a spatially-aware digital pen for use in a design environment. Paper documents are augmented to allow a user to access additional information and computational tools through projected interfaces. Virtual ink may be managed in single and multi-user environments to enhance collaboration and data management. The spatially-aware projector pen provides end-users with dynamic visual feedback and improved interaction capabilities. |
| US09128535B2 |
Portable electronic device, control method, and control program
The portable electronic device includes an operation unit, a storage unit, a setting unit, and a control unit. The operation unit inputs characters. The storage unit stores a first conversion table and a second conversion table different from the first conversion table. The second conversion table is different from the first conversion table. The setting unit sets a first mode and a second mode. In a case in which the first mode has been set by the setting unit, the control unit refers to the first conversion table when characters input by way of an operation of the operation unit are converted into another type of characters or character set. In a case in which the second mode has been set by the setting unit, the control unit refers to the second conversion table when characters input by way of an operation of the operation unit are converted into another type of characters or character set. |
| US09128534B2 |
Computer apparatus and computer system
A computer apparatus including: a reception unit adapted to wirelessly receive signals associated with key inputs transmitted from a keyboard; an attachment unit capable of attaching the keyboard; and a power transfer unit adapted to transfer power in a non-contact manner to a battery incorporated in the keyboard if the keyboard is attached to the attachment unit. |
| US09128530B2 |
Hand pointing estimation for human computer interaction
Hand pointing has been an intuitive gesture for human interaction with computers. A hand pointing estimation system is provided, based on two regular cameras, which includes hand region detection, hand finger estimation, two views' feature detection, and 3D pointing direction estimation. The technique may employ a polar coordinate system to represent the hand region, and tests show a good result in terms of the robustness to hand orientation variation. To estimate the pointing direction, Active Appearance Models are employed to detect and track, e.g., 14 feature points along the hand contour from a top view and a side view. Combining two views of the hand features, the 3D pointing direction is estimated. |
| US09128528B2 |
Image-based real-time gesture recognition
Techniques are provided for image-based real-time gesture recognition. Video data of a person is obtained. Pixels are classified in the video stream at a given time instance during a time period as a foreground or a background pixel. A data entry is generated comprising data indicating foreground history values for each of a plurality of time instances of the video stream and data indicating a time period value. When the classifying indicates that a first pixel is a foreground pixel, the data structure associated with the first pixel is evaluated to determine whether or not to update a foreground history value associated with the first pixel at the given time instance. A motion gradient vector is generated for the video stream based on the foreground history value associated with the first pixel and foreground history values associated with other pixels. |
| US09128526B2 |
Operation control device, operation control method, and computer-readable recording medium for distinguishing an intended motion for gesture control
An apparatus and method provide logic for controlling a controllable device by distinguishing between an intended motion of a user and an unintended motion of the user. In one implementation, a computer-implemented method is provided to control a controllable device by distinguishing between a control movement and a non-control movement. The method receives spatial positions of a joint of a human appendage and a reference point disposed along the appendage and distal to the joint. The method determines whether a movement of the reference point about the joint is a control movement or a non-control movement, based on a comparison of direction of movement of the reference point and a direction of displacement between the reference point and the upper joint. A control instruction is executed when the movement is a control movement. |
| US09128523B2 |
Dynamically generating haptic effects from audio data
Haptic effects are dynamically generated for content presentation on a device through analysis of the content. During content playback, audio data for the content may be analyzed to determine low frequency audio data. The low frequency audio data is mapped from a low frequency range to a haptic control frequency range of one or more haptic actuators included in the device. This mapping may be used to generate a control signal to drive the one or more haptic actuators. The haptic effects and the content may be synchronized to one another during the presentation of the content on the device. The haptic actuator control signal may be amplified proportionally to the amplitude of the low frequency audio data. |
| US09128521B2 |
System and method of biomechanical posture detection and feedback including sensor normalization
A system and method are described herein for a sensor device which biomechanically detects in real-time a user's movement state and posture and then provides real-time feedback to the user based on the user's real-time posture. The feedback is provided through immediate sensory feedback through the sensor device (e.g., a sound or vibration) as well as through an avatar within an associated application with which the sensor device communicates. The sensor device detects the user's movement state and posture by capturing data from a tri-axial accelerometer in the sensor device. Streamed data from the accelerometer is normalized to correct for sensor errors as well as variations in sensor placement and orientation. Normalization is based on accelerometer data collected while the user is wearing the device and performing specific actions. |
| US09128519B1 |
Method and system for state-based control of objects
A method and system for state-based control of objects. A simulator controls data associated with a plurality of objects, the simulator including a first list of the plurality of objects and a data structure comprising data defining the plurality of objects. A state manager includes a plurality of states, wherein a state includes a second list of a subset of objects of the plurality of objects and determines a display appearance and a display action of the subset of objects. A plurality of software nodes are operable to perform associated operations on subsets of objects and to update data of the data structure for the subset of the objects. |
| US09128514B2 |
Automatic account detection and association
A system is configured to receive a selection of an accounts application from a user device associated with a first account. The system is further configured to determine a network identifier, associated with the user device, based on receiving the selection of the accounts application; determine whether the network identifier, associated with the user device, is associated with a second account; generate an association among the first account, the second account, and the user device, based on determining that the network identifier, associated with the user device, is associated with the second account; and cause the user device to present information regarding accounts associated with the user device, in a single interface on the user device. The system is further configured to receive a selection of one of the accounts associated with the user device and cause the user device to display information for the selected one of the accounts. |
| US09128513B2 |
Display of an online catalog for concurrent downloading of files
Example embodiments relate to provision of an online catalog of files. In example embodiments, a computing device may display an online catalog that identifies files available for download. The computing device may also output a corresponding user interface element for each file and set each user interface element to an initial state. Upon selection of a first file for download, the computing device may modify the user interface element for that file to a downloading state to indicate a status of the download while continuing to display the online catalog. Subsequently, upon selection of a second file for download, the computing device may modify the user interface element for the second file to the downloading state, such that the computing device may concurrently download multiple files. |
| US09128503B2 |
Unified bandgap voltage curvature correction circuit
A unified bandgap voltage waveform compensation amplifier is arranged having shared input transistor pairs, a shared load resistor, and shared current sources. For example, a first amplifier structure is arranged to produce a negative-going bias correction signal when a bandgap voltage reference increases as operating temperatures rise and a second amplifier structure is arranged to produce a positive-going bias correction signal when the bandgap voltage reference increases as operating temperatures rise. The unified amplifier is arranged to combine the positive-and negative-going signals to generate a combined compensation current that is used to compensate for temperature instability of the bandage voltage reference. |
| US09128500B2 |
Switching circuits with voltage valley detection
A switching circuit and a method of operating the same are disclosed. In an embodiment, the switching circuit includes a switching transistor adapted to control operation of the switching circuit according to a control signal applied to the control terminal of the switching transistor, a regulating circuit adapted to generate the control signal, and a detecting circuit adapted to sense a voltage at the control terminal when the switching transistor is in an OFF state and to generate a drive signal according to the sensed voltage. The regulating circuit is adapted to generate the control signal based on the generated drive signal. |
| US09128497B2 |
Voltage reference circuit based on temperature compensation
The present invention pertains to a voltage reference circuit based on temperature compensation, comprising positive and negative temperature coefficient generating units, temperature compensation circuit, image circuit and voltage divider. In this circuit, Item T is compensated with Item T, and Item T ln(T) is compensated by Item T in (T), which features a well-targeted compensation performance. The circuit outputs a reference voltage with zero temperature coefficient, which is independent to T and T ln (T). The output voltage value could be defined by adjusting the ratio of resistance in voltage divider. The invention provides a voltage reference circuit featuring good compensation, zero temperature coefficient and adjustable output voltage. The invention has a better compensation than the conventional one and a fixed output voltage, and it totally eliminates the temperature coefficient. The invention has wide application in analog IC and digital/analog mixed IC. |
| US09128491B2 |
Regulator for corrosive gas tapping in under-atmospheric conditions
The invention relates to a device for regulating a pressurized gas, said device including: a stopper (4) engaging with a seat (5) and capable of closing a pressurized gas passage; a so-called low-pressure chamber (29) downstream from the seat (5), the low-pressure chamber including a plate (27) to which the stopper (4) is coupled, and the plate being subjected to the force of a spring (30) housed in said chamber (29) and arranged concentrically relative to the seat (5) and the fastening means (28) thereof. The chamber (29) is defined by a diaphragm (26) in free contact with the plate (27). The opposite surface of the diaphragm (26) is subjected to the force of a spring (20) having a prestress which is adjustable via control means (13, 14). The control means are indexed according to two positions: a first prestress release position for ensuring the closure of the device at the stopper (4), and a second calibrated prestress position of the diaphragm (26) corresponding to the regulator operational position. A sealed chamber (24) defined by the surface of the membrane (26) opposite the low-pressure chamber (29) is formed by the prestress control means for ensuring the connection to a detector for detecting the presence of a leak or of the used gas in order to detect a potential leak at the diaphragm. |
| US09128483B2 |
Method and arrangement for controlling energy consumption in a marine vessel
An apparatus and a method are disclosed for controlling energy consumption in a marine vessel having a plurality of energy consuming users and fuel consuming engines. An exemplary apparatus includes a voyage management tool for planning a route for the marine vessel and for estimating energy consumption on the route; an energy management tool for predicting energy consumption; and control tool for managing an energy balance on the route. |
| US09128482B2 |
Method and system for detecting jamming and/or uncontrolled movement of an aircraft control surface
A system for detecting jamming and/or uncontrolled movement of an aircraft control surface includes first means for estimating the value of at least one parameter of an equation simulating the feedback loop dynamic of the control surface, according to a recursive autoregressive method with exogenous variable of RARX type in a recursive least squares way, and second means for detecting jamming and/or uncontrolled movement of the control surface, according to the estimated parameter value by the application of a decision test in the parametric space. |
| US09128481B2 |
Integrated menu-driven manufacturing method and system
A menu-driven manufacturing technique includes determining a product and product configuration, along with process steps to be carried out in manufacturing workstations. Display screens corresponding to the particular manufacturing process steps are accessed and displayed on monitors at the workstations to lead operators through the processes. Control circuitry may verify that the correct components and tools are utilized as called for by the various process steps. Powered tools and test setups may be integrated with the system to enable improved quality control. |
| US09128476B2 |
Secure robotic operational system
Methods and systems for a secure robotic operational system include but are not limited to receiving an authorization associated with a directive to perform robotic operational tasks regarding one or more objects; verifying the authorization associated with the directive; and controlling operation of the robotic operational system via controlling a plurality of robotic elements, each robotic element of the plurality of robotic elements individually and/or in combination performing one or more functions in accordance with the authorization. |
| US09128474B2 |
Methods and systems of an adjustable bed
Aspects of this invention relate to an adjustable bed that may include one or more articulating portions, and may include one or more components, including an air inflatable mattress associated with the adjustable bed frame, a programmable logic controller, a remote memory storage facility, a remote storage location of user preferences, a cell phone remote control, a modular control device, an air purification facility, a power outlet controller, a Bluetooth remote control, an ultra wide band remote control, a wireless USB remote control, and the like. |
| US09128472B2 |
Industrial automation service templates for provisioning of cloud services
A library of cloud templates for configuring cloud-based industrial solutions is provided. A cloud template provisioning system provides a platform for location and retrieval of a variety of cloud templates that facilitate configuration of cloud-based industrial applications, including control panel templates, dashboard templates, data historian templates, virtual machine management templates, and other such templates. The cloud templates can be installed and executed on a client device to provide an intuitive interface for configuring various aspects of the cloud-based solution. |
| US09128465B2 |
Balance with hairspring, movement, and timepiece
To provide a timepiece balance with hairspring capable of changing the moment of inertia of the balance wheel without involving generation of a one-sidedness in weight. There is provided a balance with hairspring including a balance staff, and a balance wheel arranged around the balance staff, wherein there are provided a first rim constituting the balance wheel and having a guide portion configured to vary in the distance from the balance staff in correspondence with a peripheral direction around the balance staff, an elastic portion arranged so as to be slidable along the guide portion and capable of elastic deformation in the radial direction around the balance staff, and a second rim having a plurality of weight portions arranged in the peripheral direction. |
| US09128459B2 |
Image forming apparatus including holder for holding photosensitive drums
An image forming apparatus includes a main body including a metal frame, and a holder configured to hold a plurality of photosensitive drums arranged in an arrangement direction. The metal frame includes a main body portion, a first extension portion and a second extension portion. The main body portion extends in the arrangement direction and is disposed in a position not overlapping the photosensitive drums in an axial direction of the photosensitive drums, and further has a first end portion and a second end portion opposite to the first end portion in the arrangement direction. The first extension portion and the second extension portion extend from the first end portion and the second end portion of the main body portion, respectively, in a direction perpendicular to the arrangement direction and parallel to a side of the holder in a first dimension, the side of the holder being parallel to the arrangement direction in a second dimension. |
| US09128458B2 |
Developing unit to effectively supply toner to developing roller and image forming apparatus employing same
A developing unit includes a toner storage portion containing toner and a toner supply member, and a development portion disposed above the toner storage portion. A partition wall divides the toner storage portion from the development portion. The partition wall includes a supply opening that defines a toner supply path from the toner storage portion to the development portion, and a discharge opening that defines a toner discharge path from the development portion to the toner storage portion. |
| US09128451B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes an apparatus main body, a housing, a photosensitive drum, a cleaning blade, a contact portion, and a contacted portion. The housing and drum are disposed in an internal space of the main body. The blade is a plate-shaped elastic member extending in an axial direction of a rotational axis of the drum, is supported by the housing, and contacts a circumferential surface of the drum for cleaning. The contact portion is disposed opposite the housing in the main body. The contacted portion is disposed at a center portion, in the axial direction, of the housing and is contacted by the contact portion. A position of the center portion, in the axial direction, of the housing is adjusted in a cross section intersecting the axial direction by the housing being inserted into the internal space and the contact portion coming into contact with the contacted portion. |
| US09128445B2 |
Printing apparatus, method for controlling printing apparatus, and storage medium
In a printing apparatus, registration of a particular type of sheet in a particular sheet storage unit can prevent reduction in convenience. A printing apparatus configured to feed a sheet from any one of a plurality of sheet storage units includes a setting unit configured to set a sheet storage unit included in the plurality of sheet storage units as a particular sheet storage unit to be used when a sheet storage unit to be used for a job has not been specified, a specifying unit configured to specify a type of sheet to be stored in a sheet storage unit included in the plurality of sheet storage units, and a control unit configured to perform control so that the specifying unit does not specify a particular type in the sheet storage unit set by the setting unit. |
| US09128444B1 |
Toner level sensing for a replaceable unit of an image forming device using pulse width patterns from a magnetic sensor
A method for estimating an amount of toner remaining in a reservoir of a replaceable unit for an image forming device according to one example embodiment includes measuring an amount of revolution of a shaft in the reservoir of the replaceable unit, decreasing an estimate of the amount of toner remaining in the reservoir based on the measured amount of revolution of the shaft, monitoring whether a pattern of widths of digital pulses generated from a magnetic sensor when the magnetic sensor senses a magnetic field of a magnet connected to a paddle mounted on the shaft in the reservoir when the paddle is near a lowest center of gravity of the paddle changes, and adjusting the estimate of the amount of toner remaining in the reservoir when the pattern of widths of digital pulses generated from the magnetic sensor changes. |
| US09128442B2 |
Cartridge, image forming apparatus and quality determining method of cartridge
A cartridge comprises a housing configured to hold a color erasable material which is erasable by heating to a color erasing temperature. The cartridge further comprises a temperature sensing unit configured to detect a temperature of the housing and a recording section configured to record the detected temperature of the housing. |
| US09128441B2 |
Image forming apparatus and image forming method
An image forming apparatus includes a charging device configured to uniformly charge a surface of a photoconductive element; an image writing device configured to write an image in the charged photoconductive element by light to form an electrostatic latent image; a developing device configured to visualize the formed electrostatic latent image as a toner image; a transfer device configured to transfer the toner image to a sheet recording medium; a fixing device configured to fix the transferred toner image onto the medium; and a surface information detecting device configured to detect surface information of a fixing member of the fixing device. The surface information detecting device radiates optical spots on a surface of the fixing member in a direction crossing a conveying direction, receives reflected light of each optical spot, and detects the surface information of the fixing device based on the detection results of the reflective lights. |
| US09128440B2 |
Image forming apparatus with paper presence and paper width sensor
An image forming apparatus includes a body; a paper supply tray mounted in the body; a first sensor including a light emitting element and a light receiving element; a first actuator including a first actuating arm to sense the presence of the printing medium stored in the paper supply tray by coming into contact with and being moved by the printing medium, a second actuating arm to sense a width of the printing medium by selectively coming into contact with and being moved by the printing medium fed to the printing path according to the width of the printing medium, and a first sensing arm placed between the first actuating arm and the second actuating arm to intercept the light that would otherwise be transmitted to the light receiving element by being moved in linkage with the first actuating arm and the second actuating arm. |
| US09128439B2 |
Image forming apparatus and conveyance control method
An image forming apparatus including: a conveyance mechanism conveying a first pattern formed by a first image forming unit among image forming units, a second pattern formed by a second image forming unit among the image forming units; a detection unit detecting the first pattern and the second pattern; and a control unit controlling, when a first condition is satisfied, a timing of conveying a recording sheet having the image formed by the first image forming unit is transferred based on a first time required after the formation of the first pattern and before detecting the first pattern, and controlling, when a second condition is satisfied, a timing of conveying the recording sheet having the image formed by the second image forming unit is transferred based on a second time required after the formation of the second pattern and before detecting the second pattern. |
| US09128438B2 |
Method of using an imaging device having a media stiffness sensor assembly
A method of determining a media weight using a media stiffness sensor in an imaging device. A media sheet is staged having a cantilevered portion which is deflected by a contact member translated into the cantilevered portion. Based on the energy used to move the contact member through a travel distance, a media weight can be determined. An operating parameter of the imaging device may be adjusted based on the media weight that was determined. |
| US09128436B2 |
Fixing device, and image forming apparatus
Provided is a fixing device including a rotatable rotating member, a tubular member that is movable while coming into contact with the rotating member, a pressure member that is arranged inside the tubular member and nips a recording medium holding an unfixed toner image at a nip portion formed between the rotating member and the tubular member by bringing the tubular member into pressure contact with the rotating member, to apply pressure for fixing the unfixed toner image on the recording medium, and a holding member that holds the pressure member, wherein the pressure member is made of an elastomer, and the end position of one surface of the elastomer that comes into contact with the tubular member is located further toward the upstream side in the transport direction of the recording medium than the end position of the other surface of the elastomer held by the holding member. |
| US09128435B2 |
Fixing device and image forming apparatus including the same
A fixing film is formed by stacking a heating layer, an electrical conducting layer, and an insulation layer interposed between the heating layer and the electrical conducting layer. A current supplied from a secondary coil flows through stacked layers formed by the secondary coil, the heating layer, an electrical conducting member, and the electrical conducting layer. The electrical conducting member and electrical conducting layer function as a current return path. |
| US09128429B1 |
External heat roll scraper blade and auger
An image forming device is provided that includes a fuser section having a carbon nanotube fuser roll; a pressure roll that interacts with the fuser roll to create a nip; an external heat roll that contacts the fuser roll and transfers heat to the fuser roll; and a cleaning system for cleaning contamination deposits from the external heat roll. The cleaning system has a scraper blade configured to contact a surface of the external heat roll such that the deposits are scraped from the surface of the external heat roll; a catch tray positioned relative to the scraper blade such that the deposits scraped from the surface of the external heat roll by the scraper blade are collected by the catch tray; and a deposit transportation auger located in the catch tray, the auger being configured to transport the deposits from the catch tray to a collection box. |
| US09128425B2 |
Fixing device having end-face restricting members applied with lubricant
A fixing device includes: a flexible tubular member defining an axis extending in an axial direction; a first fixing member; a second fixing member configured to nip the tubular member in cooperation with the first fixing member; and a pair of restricting members disposed to interpose the tubular member therebetween in the axial direction. The tubular member has end faces in the axial direction and a circumference defining a circumferential direction. Each restricting member has a restricting surface abuttable with each end face of the tubular member to restrict the tubular member from moving in the axial direction, each restricting surface having a specific area continuously applied with a lubricant upon completion of assembly of the fixing device, the specific area having an arcuate shape extending in the circumferential direction and having a width at least equal to a thickness of the tubular member in the radial direction. |
| US09128422B2 |
Image forming apparatus and image forming method
An aspect of the present invention provides an image forming apparatus including: a photosensitive element where a latent image is formed and developed into a toner image; an image carrier; an intermediate transfer driving roller that drives the image carrier; a primary transfer roller for transferring the toner image from the photosensitive element to the image carrier; a secondary transfer roller for secondary transfer of the toner image from the image carrier to a medium; a bias applying unit that applies, as a secondary transfer bias, a first bias and a second bias to the intermediate transfer driving roller and the secondary transfer roller, respectively; and a fixing unit that fixes the toner image onto the medium. The first bias is lower than a minimum voltage at which discharge to the primary transfer roller can occur. The second bias depends on the first bias and is opposite in polarity therefrom. |
| US09128418B2 |
Developing device and image forming apparatus
A developing device includes a developer carrier that has a cylindrical shape and that rotates while holding developer to supply the developer to an image carrier on which an electrostatic latent image is formed; a container that contains the developer carrier; a discharge-path forming member that forms a discharge path along which air is discharged out of the container from inside the container; and a magnetic member that generates a magnetic field that acts on the developer in the discharge path and causes the developer to stay in the discharge path. |
| US09128417B2 |
Unit and image forming apparatus
A unit for use with an image forming apparatus includes: a frame; a developer accommodating portion; a sheet member, contact to a rotatable member and provided on the frame along a longitudinal direction of the rotatable member; a first end portion seal member for preventing, at a longitudinal end portion, the developer from leaking out from between the frame and the rotatable member; and a second end portion seal member for preventing the developer from leaking out from among the first end portion seal member, the sheet member and the frame. The second end portion seal member is formed by injecting, on the frame, a resin material having an elastic modulus smaller than an elastic modulus of the frame so as to contact with the first end portion seal member and the sheet member. |
| US09128412B2 |
Venting system for a toner cartridge for use with an image forming device
A toner cartridge for an electrophotographic image forming device according to one example embodiment includes a housing having a reservoir for storing toner. The toner cartridge includes a first vent having an inlet opening positioned to receive air from outside the housing, an outlet opening positioned to exit the received air into the reservoir, and a one-way valve that permits airflow through the first vent from the inlet opening to the outlet opening and prevents airflow through the first vent from the outlet opening to the inlet opening. A check valve limits airflow through the first vent from the inlet opening to the outlet opening. |
| US09128411B2 |
Developing device, process cartridge, and electrophotographic apparatus
A developing device includes a developing chamber provided with a developing roller that conveys toner to a developing area, and a toner regulating member that is in contact with a surface of the developing roller; and a toner container that contains the toner. An opening that allows the developing chamber and the toner container to communicate with each other is closed by a seal member that prevents the toner in the toner container from flowing into the developing chamber, and the seal member is removable from the opening. Spherical resin particles are provided at least in a contact portion between the developing roller and the toner regulating member. A Martens hardness of the spherical resin particles is 0.5 N/mm2 or higher and 45 N/mm2 or lower, and a restoring elastic power of the spherical resin particles is 70% or higher. |
| US09128405B2 |
Image forming apparatus controlling charging voltage based on image density information
An image forming apparatus includes a plurality of image forming stations and a control portion configured to control an image forming operation. Each of the image forming stations includes an image bearing member configured to form a toner image on a surface thereof and a charging device configured to charge the image bearing member. The toner images formed on the image bearing members of the image forming stations are sequentially transferred to a transfer incurring member to be superimposed. The control portion sets a voltage applied to the charging device in forming an image in an image forming station which performs the transfer later based on image density information of the toner image transferred to the transfer incurring member by an image forming station which performs the transfer earlier in a sequence of the image forming operations. |
| US09128404B2 |
Image formation unit and image formation apparatus
An image formation unit includes a rotatable image carrier, a charge member configured to electrically charge a surface of the image carrier, a charge cleaning member including cell marks in a surface layer thereof and configured to clean a surface of the charge member, a first cleaning member configured to clean the surface of the image carrier, and a second cleaning member including cell marks in a surface layer thereof and provided downstream of the first cleaning member in a rotation direction of the image carrier. The cell density of the charge cleaning member is equal to or more than the cell density of the second cleaning member. |
| US09128403B2 |
Electrophotographic electrically conductive member
The present invention provides an electrophotographic electrically conductive member in which conductivity needed for a charging member is secured, and defects in an image attributed to uneven discharging can be minimized independently of a long-term use and an environment of use. An electrophotographic electrically conductive member comprising an electrically conductive support and an electrically conductive layer, wherein the electrically conductive layer includes an ion conductive resin having a quaternary ammonium ion in a molecule structure as a binder resin, and a carrier molecule represented by the following formula (1) or (2): (wherein n1 and n2 each independently represent an integer of 1 to 4). |
| US09128399B2 |
Toners for electrophotography
The present invention relates to a toner for electrophotography including core-shell particles as a resin binder each including a core portion containing an amorphous resin (A) having a softening point of 105° C. or lower which is obtained by polycondensing a carboxylic acid component containing an alkenyl succinic acid with an alcohol component; and a shell portion containing an amorphous resin (B) obtained by polycondensing an alcohol component containing an aliphatic diol having 2 to 6 carbon atoms with a carboxylic acid component containing a trivalent or higher-valent polycarboxylic acid compound in an amount of 20 mol % or less. The toner for electrophotography according to the present invention is excellent in heat resistant storage property, low-temperature fusing property and durability. |
| US09128392B2 |
Polyarylatecarbonate containing photoconductors
A photoconductor that includes, for example, a supporting substrate, an optional anticurl layer, an optional ground plane layer, an optional hole blocking layer, an optional adhesive layer, a photogenerating layer, a charge transport layer, and an optional protective coating, and where the photogenerating layer contains a polyarylatecarbonate. |
| US09128391B2 |
Optical device including wavefront correction parts and beam direction parts, laser apparatus including the optical device, and extreme ultraviolet light generation system including the laser apparatus
An optical device may include a mirror for respectively reflecting and transmitting parts of a first laser beam as first reflected and first transmitted beams, and for respectively transmitting and reflecting parts of a second laser beam as second transmitted and second reflected beams; an optical system disposed so that the first and second laser beams are such that beam paths of the first transmitted and second reflected beams are parallel or substantially coincide, or such that beam paths of the first reflected and second transmitted beams are parallel or substantially coincide; first and second measuring units configured to respectively measure a beam parameter of the first transmitted or first reflected beams, and of the second reflected or second transmitted beams; and first and second adjusting units configured to adjust the first and second laser beams based on measurement results by the measuring units. |
| US09128384B2 |
Method of forming a pattern
An embodiment of a method of forming a substrate pattern including forming a bottom layer and an overlying middle layer on the substrate. A photo resist pattern is formed on the middle layer. An etch coating layer is deposited on the photo resist pattern. The etch coating layer and the photo resist pattern are used as a masking element to pattern at least one of the middle layer and the bottom layer. The substrate is etched to form the substrate pattern using the at least one of the patterned middle layer and the patterned bottom layer as a masking element. The substrate pattern may be used as an element of an overlay measurement process. |
| US09128382B2 |
Plasma mediated ashing processes that include formation of a protective layer before and/or during the plasma mediated ashing process
A method for processing a substrate includes arranging a substrate including masked portions and unmasked portions in a process chamber; creating plasma in a process chamber; supplying a passivation gas mixture that includes nitrogen or carbon to create a plasma passivation gas mixture; exposing a substrate to the plasma passivation gas mixture to create a passivation layer on the unmasked portions of the substrate; supplying a stripping gas mixture that includes oxygen to the plasma to create a plasma stripping gas mixture; exposing the substrate to the plasma stripping gas mixture to strip at least part of the masked portions and at least part of the unmasked portions; and repeating creating the passivation layer and the stripping to remove a predetermined amount of the masked portions. |
| US09128376B2 |
Pattern forming method, actinic ray-sensitive or radiation-sensitive resin composition, resist film, method for manufacturing electronic device, and electronic device
A pattern forming method including: (i) forming a film using an actinic ray-sensitive or radiation-sensitive resin composition containing a resin (A) having a repeating unit having a group generating a polar group upon being decomposed by the action of an acid, and a repeating unit having an aromatic group, a compound (B) generating an acid upon irradiation with actinic rays or radiation, and a solvent (C); (ii) exposing the film; and (iii) developing the exposed film using a developer including an organic solvent to form a negative tone pattern, wherein the resin (A) is a resin having a repeating unit having a naphthyl group, and the like, and/or the actinic ray-sensitive or radiation-sensitive resin composition contains a compound (D) having a naphthalene ring, and the like. |
| US09128374B2 |
Resist composition and method of forming resist pattern
A resist composition which generates acid upon exposure and exhibits changed solubility in a developing solution under the action of acid, the resist composition including: a base component (A) which exhibits changed solubility in a developing solution under the action of acid and an acid generator component (B) which generates an acid upon exposure, the base component (A) including a polymeric compound (A1) having a structural unit (a0) containing an acid decomposable group that exhibits increased polarity by the action of acid and a lactone-containing cyclic group, an —SO2— containing cyclic group or a carbonate-containing cyclic group, and the acid generator component (B) including an acid generator (B1) containing a compound having a nitrogen atom exhibiting a proton acceptor property and an acid generating site capable of generating an acid upon exposure in the same molecule thereof. |
| US09128369B2 |
Method for applying optical filter structures onto a carrier substrate
A method by which optical filter structures may be applied onto a substrate that is transparent to light at least in the visible wavelength range suitable for a barrier filter.In such a method, an adhesive is applied onto the substrate; then, a photographic film comprising a base film and a photographic emulsion layer applied on it is brought into contact with the adhesive. The optical filter structures are impressed in the photographic emulsion layer by exposure, development and fixation. The side of the film brought into contact with the adhesive is the one that bears the photographic emulsion layer. The adhesive is then spread between film and substrate by means of a roller rolling across the film at a specified contact pressure and a specified feed rate of the roller and thus pressing the film against the substrate. A permanent joint between substrate and photographic emulsion layer is then established by the curing of the adhesive. In a further step, the base film may be thermally separated and removed from the photographic emulsion layer. |
| US09128358B2 |
Projector and projector system
A second projector is configured to be able to connect with a first projector via a USB cable including a VBUS line. The second projector includes an image projecting unit that modulates light emitted from a light source and projects the light, a USB communication unit that detects, in a standby state, the supply of power via a VBUS from the first projector, and a control unit that performs control to switch an operating state of the second projector between the standby state and a normal operating state. When the supply of power of the VBUS is detected by the USB communication unit, the control unit activates the second projector from the standby state to the normal operating state. |
| US09128356B1 |
System and method for providing a polarization projector utilizing a polarization sensitive lens
A system for projecting to a viewing surface including an illumination source to project a first image onto the viewing surface along a beam path, a focusing system to focus the first image, provided in a first polarization state and projected from the illumination source, at a first image plane along the beam path between the illumination source and the viewing surface, a transmissive LCD, through which the first image is transmitted, for placement in the beam path at the first image plane with the LCD further configured to propagate a second image, provided in a second polarization state, and a first polarized filter configured to provide the first image in the first polarization state before the first image is transmitted through the LCD. At least one of the first image and the second image is in a non-detectable polarization state when illuminated upon the viewing surface. |
| US09128352B2 |
Controlling direction of light associated with a flash device
A flash device includes a light emitting element configured to emit light and light controlling elements. The light controlling elements include a light receiving surface and a light exiting surface that is non-parallel to the light exiting surface of an adjacent light controlling element. The light controlling elements are individually adjustable to vary a difference between an amount of light received at the light receiving surface and an amount of light exited from the light exiting surface such that amounts of light exiting respective non-parallel light exiting surfaces vary to control direction of light emitted by the flash device. |
| US09128347B2 |
Optical hybrid mixer without waveguide crossings
A multimoded interference coupler may include: first and second inputs to receive first and second optical signals such that light is not supplied through any portion of a first gap extending between the first and second inputs; first and second outputs to provide first and second components associated with the first and second optical signals, such that light is not output through any portion of a second gap extending between the first and second outputs. The first and second inputs may be separated by a first distance. The first and second outputs may be separated by the first distance. The first input and the second output may be separated by a second distance being different than a third distance separating the second input and the first output. The first and second components may have a phase difference based on a difference between the second and third distances. |
| US09128342B2 |
Method of manufacturing liquid crystal display panel
The present invention provides a method of manufacturing a liquid crystal display panel. First, a top substrate, a bottom substrate, and a liquid crystal medium are provided, and the liquid crystal medium is filled between the top substrate and the bottom substrate. Next, an electric field is applied to the liquid crystal medium. Then, the electric field is stopped. Thereafter, an energy light beam is irradiated on the liquid crystal medium to form a liquid crystal layer. |
| US09128341B2 |
Visible sensing transistor, display panel and manufacturing method thereof
A display device includes an infrared sensing transistor and a visible sensing transistor. The visible sensing transistor includes a semiconductor on a substrate; an ohmic contact on the semiconductor; an etch stopping layer on the ohmic contact; a source electrode and a drain electrode on the etch stopping layer; a passivation layer on the source electrode and the drain electrode; and a gate electrode on the passivation layer. The etch stopping layer may be composed of the same material as the source electrode and the drain electrode. The infrared sensing transistor is similar to the visible sensing transistor except the etch stopping layer is absent. |
| US09128339B2 |
Ultra high resolution liquid crystal display having a compensating thin film transistor at each pixel
The present disclosure relates to an ultra high-resolution liquid crystal display having a compensating thin film transistor at each pixel. The present disclosure suggests a thin film transistor substrate comprising: gate lines running in horizontal direction and data lines running in vertical direction which define a plurality of pixel area on a substrate; a first gate electrode and a second gate electrode formed by dividing any one gate line disposed at any one of an upper side and a lower side; a first thin film transistor connected to the first gate electrode; and a second thin film transistor connected to the first thin film transistor and the second gate electrode. The flat panel display according to the present disclosure has an ultra high-density resolution over 300PPI with the high aperture ratio. |
| US09128338B2 |
Display apparatus for controlling optical transmissivity
A display apparatus includes a transparent display device, a first polarizer on a first surface of the transparent display device, a first retarder between the first polarizer and the first surface of the transparent display device, a second polarizer on a second surface of the transparent display device opposite the first surface, and a conversion retarder between the second polarizer and the second surface of the transparent display device, the conversion retarder being configured to delay a wavelength of the external light within a range from a first phase to a second phase and to transmit the wavelength-delayed light therethrough when power is supplied to the conversion retarder. |
| US09128337B2 |
Display apparatus
A display apparatus includes a display panel, and at least one flexible printed circuit board connected to the display panel. The display panel includes signal lines, pixels connected to the signal lines, and contact pads provided at one end of the signal lines. The flexible printed circuit board includes a fan-out part including a plurality of connection lines corresponding to the contact pads in a one-to-one correspondence, overlapping with the contact pads and connected to the contact pads, and a driving driver connected to the connection lines, the driving driver applying a driving signal to the pixels. |
| US09128335B2 |
Liquid crystal panel, liquid crystal display device
The present liquid crystal panel includes an array substrate including a pixel electrode, a transistor, and first and second data signal lines; and a counter, the array substrate includes first and second sides which are adjacent to each other, a first terminal having shorter distance from the first side than distance from the second side in a plan view, and a second terminal having shorter distance from the second side than distance from the first side in a plan view are formed in the array substrate, the first data signal line is electrically connected to the first terminal, the second data signal line and the second terminal are electrically connected via a relay wiring formed in a layer different from the first and second data signal lines. According to the above configuration, the number of terminals for data signal lines can be increased without changing the size of the liquid crystal panel. |
| US09128332B2 |
Liquid crystal lens panel and display apparatus having the same
A liquid crystal lens panel includes a first substrate, a second substrate, and a liquid crystal layer disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate. The first substrate includes a first base substrate and a plurality of first electrodes disposed on the first base substrate. The second substrate includes a second base substrate disposed to face the first base substrate, the second substrate further including a plurality of second electrodes disposed on the second base substrate. Each of the first base substrate and the second base substrate are rectilinearly shaped to comprise corresponding first sides and second sides, the plurality of first electrodes and the plurality of second electrodes are inclined with respect to the corresponding first sides or second sides, and the plurality of first electrodes comprise a first inclination angle different from a second inclination angle associated with the plurality of second electrodes. |
| US09128329B2 |
Apparatus for fabricating alignment film for improving alignment force of a liquid crystal and method for fabricating liquid crystal display panel using the same
An alignment film and method of fabricating the alignment film are disclosed. A photosensitive alignment material is spread on an LCD array substrate or color filter substrate and partially cured. A soft mold is aligned on the partially cured alignment material. The soft mold has a concavo-convex pattern with grooves and projections. The alignment material is exposed to ultraviolet radiation through the soft mold and then developed. The differences between the indices of refraction of the soft mold and air cause interference in the ultraviolet radiation, leading to periodic variations in the exposure intensity of the alignment material. These variations result in crests and troughs being formed when the alignment film is developed. The developed alignment film is then cured. |
| US09128328B2 |
Liquid crystal device and projector
A liquid crystal device includes a substrate, a base body that is disposed opposing the substrate, a liquid crystal layer that is held between the substrate and the base body, an inorganic alignment film that is provided between the liquid crystal layer and the substrate or the base body, and a protection film that is provided between the inorganic alignment film and the liquid crystal layer, the inorganic alignment film has a plurality of grooves that are hollowed toward the surface on the opposite side of the liquid crystal layer from the surface on the liquid crystal layer side, and the protection film has a cave-in shape toward the opposite side to the liquid crystal layer from the liquid crystal layer side in at least one portion of portions corresponding to the plurality of grooves. |
| US09128323B2 |
Display device
Disclosed is a display device. The display device includes a liquid crystal panel, a backlight unit configured to include a light source that supplies light to the liquid crystal panel, and an optical member adhered to the liquid crystal panel. The optical member is formed to extend in an outer direction of the liquid crystal panel, and surrounds at least one of an outside of the liquid crystal panel and an outside of the backlight unit. |
| US09128315B2 |
Backlight module and liquid crystal display
A backlight module and a liquid crystal display are provided. The backlight module includes a plastic frame. The sidewalls of the plastic frame have an adjustable length. Each sidewall having the adjustable length includes at least two separated member slidably connected together. The present invention may flexibly set the plastic frame according to the size of the liquid crystal display, and need not specially configure the molds to produce the plastic frames for the different sizes of the liquid crystal display, thereby not only reducing the cost, but also increasing the manufacture efficiency. |
| US09128314B2 |
Display apparatus and method for manufacturing the same
Disclosed are a display device and a manufacturing method thereof, which do not use some of cases and set covers necessary for producing the display device and thus can minimize a thickness and enhance a sense of beauty with an innovative design. The display device includes a display panel, a guide frame, an adhesive member, a set cover, and a soft member. The set cover receives the guide frame, and surrounds a side of the display panel. The soft member is formed at the set cover, and closely contacted to the side of the display panel. |
| US09128313B2 |
Method of manufacturing liquid crystal display
A method of manufacturing a liquid crystal display includes disposing a gate electrode and a light blocking member on a substrate, disposing a source electrode and a drain electrode on the gate electrode to form a thin film transistor, disposing a data line on the light blocking member, disposing an organic layer on the thin film transistor and the data line, exposing a first convex part of the organic layer to light in a first area corresponding to the thin film transistor during an exposure process, and exposing a second convex part of the organic layer to the light in a second area corresponding to the data line during the exposure process using a mask. The mask includes a first transflective part aligned with the first area and a second transflective part aligned with the second area during the exposure process. |
| US09128312B2 |
Flat display device
A flat display device includes a flat display module that produces an image. The device also includes a reflective sheet at a rear side of the flat display module, a support member on the reflective sheet, and an optical adhesive film adhered to the front surface of the flat display module, to sides of the flat display module, and to a portion of a back of the support member that is opposite the reflective sheet. The image is produced on the front surface of the flat display module and is emitted through the optical adhesive film. |
| US09128311B2 |
Liquid crystal display device
A liquid crystal display device using a pseudo-dot inversion driving system includes a pixel circuit arranged in a matrix shape in a row direction and a column direction. First and second gate lines extend in the row direction. First and second signal lines extend in the column direction. The pixel circuit includes a pixel electrode arranged between the first and second signal lines and electrically connected with the first signal line through a switching element. Parasitic capacitance formed between the pixel electrode and the first signal line is smaller than the parasitic capacitance between the pixel electrode and the second signal line. |
| US09128303B1 |
Contact pad arrangement for eyeglass frames
An eyeglass assembly that enables eyeglasses to be worn more comfortably when lifted above the eyes and onto the head. The eyeglasses have a frame with a bridge. Two pad arms may extend from the frame under the bridge. Two nose pads are provided at attach to the frames either directly or with the pad arms. Each of the nose pads contains a nose contact surface. Two complex pad structures are provided that either replace or attach to the nose pads. Each of the complex pad structures has a first contact surface and a second contact surface. The first contact surface lays parallel over the nose contact surface of the nose pad. The second contact surface is oriented to be generally perpendicular to the first contact surface. When the set of eyeglasses are lifted above the eyes, the second contact surface can directly rest against the wearer's head without causing discomfort. |
| US09128295B2 |
Liquid crystal lens panel, three dimensional panel assembly, and display apparatus having the same
A liquid crystal lens panel includes a first substrate, a second substrate, and a liquid crystal layer. The first substrate includes a first base substrate, a lens common electrode disposed on the first base substrate, and a first alignment layer disposed on the lens common electrode, the first alignment layer including a first alignment direction. The second substrate includes a second base substrate opposite to the first base substrate, a plurality of lens electrodes that extend in a lens axis and is parallel with each other, and a second alignment layer disposed on the plurality of lens electrodes, the second alignment layer including a second alignment direction substantially perpendicular to the first alignment direction. The liquid crystal layer is disposed between the first and second alignment layers. |
| US09128293B2 |
Computer-readable storage medium having stored therein display control program, display control apparatus, display control system, and display control method
An image display apparatus includes a stereoscopic image display apparatus configured to display a stereoscopically visible image, and a planar image display apparatus configured to display a planar image. An adjustment section of the image display apparatus adjusts relative positions, relative sizes, and relative rotations of a left-eye image taken by a left-eye image imaging section and a right-eye image taken by a right-eye image imaging section. The adjusted left-eye image and the adjusted right-eye image are viewed by the left eye and the right eye of the user, respectively, thereby displaying the stereoscopic image on the stereoscopic image display apparatus. The adjusted left-eye image and the adjusted right-eye image are made semi-transparent and superimposed one on the other, and thus a resulting superimposed planar image is displayed on the planar image display apparatus. |
| US09128292B2 |
Balanced equatorial mount technique for telescope
A technique for equatorially mounting a telescope includes a right ascension support having a first end coupled to a counterweight assembly and a second end coupled to a declination support. The right ascension support is coupled to a base and extends downwardly and backwardly from the first end to the second end. The resulting arrangement causes the act of balancing the telescope about its right ascension axis also substantially to balance the telescope about its base. |
| US09128291B2 |
Optical scanning apparatus, image forming apparatus, and support member for an optical scanning apparatus
Provided is an optical scanning apparatus, including: an optical deflector having a polygon mirror reflecting a light flux emitted from a light source to carry out scanning, a drive unit rotating the polygon mirror about a rotation shaft, and a board supporting the drive unit; an optical box to which the board is fixed; two holes provided in the optical box, through which two screws fixing the board are inserted, respectively; two bearing surfaces provided on the optical box at positions around the two holes, respectively, the two bearing surfaces supporting the board; and an abutment portion provided on the optical box and abutting against a portion that is prevented from being pressed by the two screws in the board which is sandwiched between the two screws and the two bearing surfaces so as to be fixed to the optical box. |
| US09128289B2 |
Display apparatus incorporating high-aspect ratio electrical interconnects
This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus for enabling a display to have a faster switching rate and an increased aperture ratio by using looped electrical interconnects with a reduced footprint. In one aspect, a display apparatus includes an array of display elements and a high-aspect ratio electrical interconnect connected to at least one display element in the array of display elements, wherein the high-aspect ratio electrical interconnect forms a loop that defines a closed boundary. |
| US09128288B2 |
Light-controlling device and method of manufacturing the same
A light-controlling device is provided. The light-controlling device includes a first substrate, a second substrate disposed opposite the first substrate, and a partition wall separating the first and second substrates to define a cell. An optical medium containing charged particles is disposed within the cell between the first and second substrates. A plurality of first electrodes is disposed on the first substrate, and a plurality of second electrodes is disposed on the second substrate to generate electrical field within the cell to move at least some of the charged particles. Each of the first electrodes has a first width and a first thickness, and each of the second electrodes has a second width and a second thickness. Each of the second electrodes is disposed at an interval of a third width such that the open region on the second substrate between the second electrodes corresponds to the first electrode on the first substrate. |
| US09128287B2 |
Display device
A MEMS substrate is formed from a transparent substrate and a movable type shutter arranged on each pixel of a surface of the transparent substrate. An AP substrate includes another substrate and a light blocking film arranged on the other transparent substrate formed with an aperture corresponding to each shutter. A plurality of supporting columns is formed on a surface of the transparent substrate of the MEMS substrate. A plurality of cylindrical contact holes having the same inner diameter as an outer diameter of each supporting column are formed at a position corresponding to one part of the supporting columns. Both substrates are arranged with a certain interval so that each shutter and an aperture oppose each other, thereby a tip end of corresponding supporting columns is inserted into each contact hole and in this way, both substrate are mutually positioned. |
| US09128286B2 |
Display device and method for manufacturing the display device
A metal layer is formed on a highly light-transmissive substrate; a resist mask having an opening pattern is formed on the metal layer; exposed portions of the metal layer is etched away in this state to form openings; then the resist mask is removed; and a surface of the metal layer and an inner side wall of each of the openings are oxidized to form a metal oxide layer. Thus, a front surface and a rear surface of the aperture plate are caused to have different reflectances. The oxide layer is formed at the same time as when the resist mask is ashed to remove resist. |
| US09128283B1 |
Dynamically adjustable frame
The present disclosure describes example systems and methods for dynamically adjusting a tension of at least a portion of a frame of wearable computing device. The systems and methods may be directed to receiving an input signal from a component of the wearable computing device that is indicative of a movement of the wearable computing device. An adjustment of the tension of at least the portion of the frame may be based on the movement. An output signal that is indicative of the adjustment may be provided to the wearable computing device. |
| US09128281B2 |
Eyepiece with uniformly illuminated reflective display
An eyepiece includes a mechanical frame adapted to secure a lens and an image source facility above the lens. The image source facility includes an LED, a planar illumination facility and a reflective display. The planar illumination facility converts a light beam from the LED received on a side of the planar illumination facility into a top emitting planar light source, uniformly illuminates the reflective display, and is substantially transmissive to allow reflected light to pass through towards a beam splitter. The beam splitter is positioned to receive the image light and to reflect a portion onto a mirrored surface. The mirrored surface is positioned and shaped to reflect the image light into an eye of a user of the eyepiece thereby providing an image within a field of view, the mirrored surface further adapted to be partially transmissive within an area of image reflectance. |
| US09128278B2 |
Dust cleaning device
A dust cleaning device includes a tray, a cover assembled to the tray, and an air nozzle. The tray defines recesses for receiving lens barrels. A bottom of each of the recesses defines a through hole communicating with the lens barrel. The cover includes a main body and an inlet tube. The main body includes a top wall, a bottom wall, sidewalls, guide passages between the top and bottom walls, an inlet passage, and outlet passages. The inlet tube extends from the top wall. The guide passages criss-cross and communicate with each other. The sidewalls shield the guide passages. The inlet passage communicates with an inside of the inlet tube and one of the guide passages. The outlet passages communicate with the guide passages and are exposed at the bottom wall. The outlet passages are aligned with the respective recesses. The air nozzle is mounted in the inlet tube. |
| US09128277B2 |
Mechanical light modulators with stressed beams
The invention relates to a light modulator including a substrate having a surface and a modulation assembly coupled to the substrate that includes a modulation element and a first compliant beam. The first compliant beam includes a first segment that extend away from a first anchor and a second segment that extends back towards the first anchor. The length of the first segment is different than the length of the second segment. |
| US09128267B2 |
Imaging lens and imaging apparatus including the imaging lens
An imaging lens substantially consists of, in order from an object side, five lenses of a first lens that has a positive refractive power and has a meniscus shape which is convex toward the object side, a second lens that has a biconcave shape, a third lens that has a meniscus shape which is convex toward the object side, a fourth lens that has a meniscus shape which is convex toward the image side; and a fifth lens that has a negative refractive power and has at least one inflection point on an image side surface. Further, the following conditional expression (1) is satisfied. 1.4 |
| US09128266B2 |
Image capturing optical lens assembly, image capturing device and mobile terminal
An image capturing optical lens assembly includes, in order from an object side to an image side, a first lens element, a second lens element, a third lens element, a fourth lens element, and a fifth lens element. The first lens element with refractive power has an object-side surface being convex in a paraxial region thereof. The second lens element with positive refractive power has an object-side surface being convex in a paraxial region thereof. The third lens element has negative refractive power. The fourth lens element with positive refractive power has an image-side surface being convex in a paraxial region thereof. The fifth lens element with positive refractive power has an object-side surface being convex in a paraxial region thereof and an image-side surface being concave in a paraxial region thereof. The image capturing optical lens assembly has a total of five lens elements with refractive power. |
| US09128263B2 |
Cable having lubricated, extractable elements
The invention relates to a cable (10) that includes an outer sheath (11) defining a longitudinal cavity (12). The cable (10) also includes a plurality of elements (1) extending within the cavity. Typically, the elements are at least partially coated with a lubricant film. |
| US09128262B2 |
Slidable telecommunications tray with cable slack management
A fiber optic telecommunications device includes a rack for mounting a plurality of chassis, each chassis including a plurality of trays slidably mounted thereon and arranged in a vertically stacked arrangement. Each tray includes fiber optic connection locations and a cable manager coupled to the tray and also coupled to the chassis, the cable manager for routing cables to and from the fiber optic connection locations and defining a plurality of link arms pivotally connected such that the manager retracts and extends with a corresponding movement of the tray, wherein the link arms pivot relative to each other to prevent cables managed therein from being bent in an arc having a radius of curvature less than a predetermined value, each link arm defining a top wall, a bottom wall, and two oppositely positioned sidewalls, each link arm defining an open portion along at least one of the sidewalls and an open portion along the top wall for receiving cables therein, the open portions along the top wall and the at least one of the sidewalls communicating with each other. |
| US09128258B2 |
Optical assembly and method for producing the same
An optical assembly is disclosed where the optical assembly provides an optical device and a holder including a sleeve, a skirt, and a lens. The sleeve has a bore, into which an external optical fiber is set to couple with the optical device, providing a target surface in an end thereof. The target surface includes an aiming index to indicate the axis of the lens. |
| US09128255B2 |
Interconnecting adapter for LC type optical connectors
The invention prevents an LC type optical connector plug from seriously harming a body of a worker, particularly eyes of the worker in a work for fitting the LC type optical connector plug having various concavo-convex shapes. A connector housing (1) has in its inner side of a side wall a guide groove line (7a, 7b, 12) which inserts and guides LC type optical connector plugs (P1, P2) from its fitting portion, and a recess portion (11b) which conforms to a swing motion of a shutter plate (11), and the guide groove line (7a, 7b, 12) is constructed by cutting a part of the guide groove line (7a, 7b, 12) so as to form the same planar shape by forming the recess portion (11b). |
| US09128252B2 |
Optical switch using optical fibers
A method and apparatus for routing light signals. A light signal is sent into a first optical fiber core in an optical coupler having an input region, a coupling region, and an output region. The first optical fiber core is located in a cladding having a substantially circular cross section. The light signal is coupled between the first optical fiber core and one of the first optical fiber core and a second optical fiber core in the coupling region of the optical coupler based on a position of the coupling region as the light signal travels through the coupling region to the output region of the optical coupler using a switching system configured to move the coupling region between one of a first position and a second position. |
| US09128249B2 |
Optical probe and optical measuring method
An optical measurement method that can suppress variation in detection sensitivity even if an optical probe is bent, and an optical probe suitably used for the method are provided. An optical probe 10 includes an optical fiber 11 that transmits light between a proximal end 11a and a distal end 11b, an optical connector 12 connected with the optical fiber 11 at a side of the proximal end 11a, a focusing optical system 13 and a deflecting optical system 14 optically connected with the optical fiber 11 at a side of the distal end 11b, and a support tube 15 and a jacket tube 16 surrounding the optical fiber 11 and extending along the optical fiber 11. The optical fiber 11 is twisted by a number of turns in a range from one turn/m to 50 turns per meter around an axis of the optical fiber as the center and fixed relative to the support tube 15. |
| US09128246B2 |
Systems, methods, and devices for optomechanically induced non-reciprocity
On-chip non-reciprocity can be achieved by employing micron-sized optomechanical (OM) devices that are fabricated on-chip and which can be integrated with other optical elements. Non-linear coupling between light and a mechanical mode inside a resonator can provide a non-reciprocal response of the OM system, which can be induced and fully controlled by an external driving electromagnetic field. By choosing different resonator and/or waveguide configurations and by tuning different system parameters, the same OM coupling mechanism can be used to provide isolation (e.g., as an optical diode), non-reciprocal phase shifting, and/or routing applications. Even in the presence of a finite intrinsic mode coupling inside the resonator, non-reciprocal effects remain large for a sufficiently strong OM coupling. The disclosed systems, methods, and devices can be applied on a single photon level, which may find use for various non-reciprocal applications in the classical optical as well as the quantum regime. |
| US09128242B2 |
Mode-evolution compound converter
A mode-evolution compound converter for processing an optical signal that includes a first component having a fundamental transverse magnetic (TM) mode and a second component having a fundamental transverse electric (TE) mode is disclosed. The compound converter includes a set of multiple converters connected to form a compound converter, wherein each converter is a mode-evolution converter selected from a group including a polarization converter, a spatial converter, and combination thereof, wherein the polarization converter at least converts a mode of a polarization of at least one component of the optical signal, and the spatial mode converter at least converts a spatial mode order of at least one component of the optical signal. |
| US09128241B2 |
Integrated photonics waveguide grating coupler
A photonic integrated device comprises a waveguide embedded in a photonic substrate. The waveguide has a waveguide radiation exit surface and the waveguide is optically connected to a two dimensional grating. The photonic integrated device also comprises a two dimensional grating having a plurality of curved elongate scattering elements. The two dimensional grating is adapted for diffracting radiation received from the waveguide toward a direction out of the photonic substrate and the curved elongate scattering elements are oriented with respect to the waveguide such that, for points of the scattering elements which can be irradiated by radiations stemming from the waveguide, normal lines to at least the curved elongate scattering element closest to the waveguide radiation exit surface do not substantially intersect with the waveguide radiation exit surface of the waveguide. |
| US09128240B2 |
Spot-size converter, manufacturing method thereof, and integrated optical circuit device
The invention relates to a spot-size converter, a manufacturing method thereof, and an integrated optical circuit device, and ensures easier coupling to the optical fiber and higher accuracy in manufacturing the spot-size converter. A first core that is extended from a first end configured to input/output light toward a second end, and a second core that is formed by a plurality of cores, and formed at a position to be evanescent-coupled to the first core, and moreover extended along a direction from the first end toward the second end are provided, and, on the second core, a third core that has a taper unit and is formed at a position to be evanescent-coupled to the second core in a lamination direction is provided. |
| US09128235B2 |
Optical light diffuser component having a substrate with optical structures and optical coatings and a method for manufacturing the same
An optical light diffuser component and a method of producing the same. The component includes at least one substrate material with an index of refraction of n1 and at least one optical coating on the substrate having an index of refraction of n2. The indices n1 and n2 are different. The optical light diffuser component produces uniform and diffuse light pattern from spot like light source, such as LED lamp, in terms of high optical transmission. The optical transmission is better than 90% at the visible spectrum of the light. |
| US09128232B2 |
Method and apparatus for diffusing LED light bulbs
An LED diffusion element is provided having at least one cavity for receiving an LED light bulb. The LED diffusion element contains a conditioned surface on both its exterior surface and in a light collection area that is facing the LED light bulb when inserted into the LED diffusion element. In one aspect, the LED diffusion element has an “H-shaped” cross section formed by the two cavities created on opposite sides of the LED diffusion element. In this configuration a common, central light collection area within the LED diffusion element is created that allows for smooth blending of colors coming from multiple LEDs contained within the two LED bulbs. In another aspect, the LED diffusion element is cylindrical in shape and is dimensioned to fit within a light rope so as to provide a smooth lighting effect when the LEDs are illuminated within the light rope. |
| US09128226B2 |
Multibeam diffraction grating-based backlighting
Multibeam diffraction grating-based backlighting includes a light guide and a multibeam diffraction grating at a surface of the light guide. The light guide is to guide light from a light source. The multibeam diffraction grating is to couple out a portion of the guided light using diffractive coupling and to direct the coupled out portion away from the light guide as a plurality of light beams with different principal angular directions. |
| US09128225B2 |
Light guide plate having sag control patterns and back light unit using the same
The present invention relates to a backlight unit with sag control patterns, comprising a light source formed in a side surface of a light guide plate; and a plurality of optical patterns formed on a lower surface of the light guide plate, sag of the plurality of optical patterns increasing as the optical patterns become more distant from the light source. By controlling sag of optical patterns formed in a light guide plate, efficiency of light emitted from a backlight unit can be improved and uniformity of the light can be maintained. Also, since sag of optical patterns can be controlled, by increasing the number of optical patterns (by improving fill factor), light efficiency and uniformity can be controlled easily. Also, compared with a conventional method for manufacturing white dot patterns, white dot patterns can be more efficiently manufactured in terms of development time and costs. |
| US09128219B2 |
Shift indicator with direct and edge-lit illumination
A shift indicator for a vehicle includes a light-transmissive lens with a plurality of characters or symbols; a light guide panel arranged on a lower side of the lens; a side light emitting body for projecting light into a side of the light guide panel; and a plurality of lower light emitting bodies provided at the positions corresponding to the characters or symbols on a lower side of the light guide panel. The character or symbols are illuminated with various colors indicating the respective shifting status of the vehicle. |
| US09128217B2 |
Illuminating apparatus, image sensor, and methods for manufacturing illuminating apparatus and image sensor
An illuminating apparatus includes a columnar light guide, a board having a light source fastened on one surface thereof, and a holder. The holder is formed with a through-hole into which an end of the light guide in the columnar center axis direction is fitted to hold the light guide, and a catch that catches and holds the board with the light source facing the end surface of the light guide in the columnar center axis direction in the through-hole. |
| US09128215B2 |
Optical structure and backlight unit
An optical structure includes a body facing a light emitting surface of a light emitting diode package and including a portion protruding toward the light emitting surface of the light emitting diode package, where a surface of the protruding portion faces the light emitting surface and forms a reflective surface of the optical structure; and a leg elongated from a periphery of the body toward the point light source, where the leg supports the body to be spaced apart from the light emitting diode package. |
| US09128214B2 |
Loose fiber ribbonizing tool and method of ribbonizing optical fibers
An optical fiber ribbonizing tool has a main body having an upper portion, a lower portion, and a thickness, the upper portion the lower portion having openings therein. The opening in the upper portion holds the optical fibers, while the opening in the lower portion allows the tool to be opened. An indentation is provided around the opening in the upper portion to hold an adhesive and to apply the adhesive as the optical fibers are drawn through the tool. |
| US09128213B2 |
Portable device, observation management system, and computer-readable medium
In one embodiment, there is provided a portable device. The portable device includes: an image pick-up means for taking an image of an observation object or a vicinity of the observation object so as to obtain a taken image; a display means for displaying the taken image; a first acquiring means for acquiring an observation result obtained by observing the observation object in the taken image, when the image pick-up means takes the image of the observation object or the vicinity of the observation object; a second acquiring means for acquiring state representation information that represents a present state of the observation object in accordance with the observation result; and a display control means for displaying the state representation information and the observation object in the display means. |
| US09128211B2 |
High performance and grid computing with reliability quality of service control
High performance computing (HPC) and grid computing processing for seismic and reservoir simulation are performed without impacting or losing processing time in case of failures. A Data Distribution Service (DDS) standard is implemented in High Performance Computing (HPC) and grid computing platforms, to avoid the shortcomings of current Message Passing Interface (MPI) communication between computing modules, and provide quality of service (QoS) for such applications. QoS properties of the processing can be controlled. |
| US09128208B2 |
Catenary front-end gear and method
Method and catenary front-end gear for towing streamers under water. The catenary front-end gear includes a main cable configured to be attached to a vessel and a device; a connecting system configured to connect streamers to the main cable; and plural streamers. The main cable takes a catenary shape when towed by the first vessel underwater. |
| US09128204B2 |
Shape-based metrics in reservoir characterization
Method for the segmentation and classification of seismic or other geophysical data. Curves or surfaces are identified in the geophysical data (10), then pairs of the curves or surfaces (12) are matched up according to a selected measure of shape similarity (13) such as the Hausdorff distance between members of a pair. The matched curves or surfaces (15) are used to define geobodies or faults in the geophysical data volume (16). The same inventive concept may also be used to warp/align (register) two different data volumes (72). |
| US09128203B2 |
Reservoir properties prediction with least square support vector machine
Subsurface reservoir properties are predicted despite limited availability of well log and multiple seismic attribute data. The prediction is achieved by computer modeling with least square regression based on a support vector machine methodology. The computer modeling includes supervised computerized data training, cross-validation and kernel selection and parameter optimization of the support vector machine. An attributes selection technique based on cross-correlation is adopted to select most appropriate attributes used for the computerized training and prediction in the support vector machine. |
| US09128196B2 |
Radiation imaging apparatus and radiation imaging system
A radiation imaging apparatus comprises a conversion element and a transistor. A drive unit performs a reset operation at a plurality of times, by supplying a conducting voltage to gates of the transistors, successively, one row by one row, an operation of stopping the supplying of the conducting voltage responsive to detecting the irradiation of the radiation to perform an accumulation operation and, after the reset operation, a read out operation. During the reset operation, a period between the supplying the conducting voltage to the gates of the transistors in one row and the supplying the conducting voltage subsequently to the gates of the transistors in another row is different from a period between the supplying the conducting voltage to the gates of the transistors in the another row and the supplying the conducting voltage subsequently to the gates of the transistors in further another row. |
| US09128194B2 |
Pileup correction method for a photon-counting detector
A method and apparatus for determining a parameter vector that includes a plurality of parameters of a detector pileup model of a photon-counting detector, the detector pileup model being used for pileup correction for a spectral computed-tomography scanner. The method includes setting values of the parameters, the parameters including a dead time parameter and individual probabilities of different pileup events, the probabilities including a probability of single photon events, a probability of double quasi-coincident photon events, and a probability of at least three quasi-coincident photon events. The method include determining, using (1) a detector response model, (2) an incident spectrum, and (3) the set values of the parameter vector, a plurality of component spectra, each component spectrum corresponding to one of the individual probabilities of the different pileup events, and summing the plurality of component spectra to generate an output spectrum. |
| US09128183B2 |
Machine navigation system utilizing scale factor adjustment
A machine navigation system and method for estimating velocity of a machine is disclosed. The method may include receiving, from an odometer, a first signal indicative of a distance traveled by the machine and calculating a scale factor to compensate for an error associated with the first signal. The method may further include determining whether a second signal indicative of a location of the machine is received by the machine and selectively adjusting the scale factor using machine parameters to generate an adjusted scale factor, where selectively adjusting may be performed based on whether the second signal is received by the machine. The method may further include estimating the velocity of the machine based on the first signal and the adjusted scale factor. |
| US09128182B2 |
Radar device
A radar receiver has plural antenna system processors each for performing coherent integration on the basis of correlation values between a reception signal and a transmission signal using correction amounts for phase variations corresponding to plural Doppler frequencies, plural correlation matrix generators for generating, for each of the plural different Doppler frequencies, correlation matrices which are pieces of phase difference information relating to an arrangement of reception antennas on the basis of sets of outputs of the coherent integration, respectively, an adder for adding together outputs of the plural correlation matrix generators, and an incoming direction estimator for estimating an incoming direction of reflection waves on the basis of outputs of the adder. |
| US09128181B2 |
Method for monitoring and method for operating a fill level sensor system using the radar principle and a corresponding fill level sensor
A method for monitoring the operability of a fill level sensor acting as a FMCW radar device in which the frequency of a radar signal to be sent from the fill sensor during measurement of a fill level of a medium is modulated with a set of pre-settable measuring parameters and a measured value of the fill level determined from at least one received signal received during measurement of the fill level. The method enables simple automatic monitoring of the operability of a fill level sensor acting as a FMCW radar device in that, during a test phase, the frequency of the radar signal to be sent is modulated with at least one set of pre-settable test parameters and a test measured value is determined from at least one test received signal received during the test phase, which is evaluated to establish the operability of the fill level sensor. |
| US09128180B2 |
Efficient power usage in position tracking operations
Techniques and tools for reducing power consumption of computing devices (e.g., mobile devices such as mobile phones and tablet computers) that perform position tracking operations are described. In described examples, a low-power processor calculates (e.g., in real time) position information (e.g., GPS position fixes) based on information received from a positioning system (e.g., GPS) and stores the position information for later use in a buffer associated with the low-power processor (e.g., in storage on the low-power processor). Described examples allow position information to be calculated in real time and stored while the device is in a low-power state, and can be used with location-based applications that do not require position information to be delivered to the application in real time. |
| US09128179B2 |
System and method for adaptive motion sensing with location determination
A system and method for adaptive motion sensing with location determination is described. In one embodiment, the adaptive motion sensor is based on vibration sensor readings and can identify different states of motions based on modifiable parameters. |
| US09128172B2 |
Packet based location provisioning in wireless networks
A system may include a plurality of wireless devices, each wireless device including a time source and configured to selectively communicate with at least one other of the plurality of wireless devices by way of a packet-based time precision protocol. The plurality of wireless devices may include a first wireless device and a second wireless device, the first wireless device being configured to determine whether the first wireless device and the second wireless device are in selective communication over a single-hop wireless link; determine a one-way delay over the single-hop wireless link by way of at least one packed-based time precision protocol message; and calculate a distance measurement between the first wireless device and the second wireless device based at least in part on the one-way delay. |
| US09128171B2 |
System and method for detection and ranging
A detection and ranging system includes: a signal generator configured to generate M probe signals having different carrier frequencies; M transmitting elements configured to transmit the M probe signals; N receiving elements configured to receive an echo signal from a target; N demodulators provided for the N receiving elements, each of the demodulators being configured to generate a demodulated echo signal by demodulating an echo signal received by a corresponding one of the receiving elements by using at least one of the M probe signals, and to generate M sets of data signals corresponding to the M probe signals by filtering the demodulated echo signal in a frequency domain; and a signal processor configured to detect the target according to M×N sets of data signals generated by the N demodulators. |
| US09128166B2 |
Secondary battery tester, secondary battery testing method, and manufacturing method of secondary battery
There is provided a secondary battery tester for testing a state of a secondary battery based on an impedance characteristic of the secondary battery. The tester includes: an impedance acquiring section configured to acquire an impedance value of the secondary battery; and a determining section configured to determine a state of a solid electrolyte interface (SEI) layer of the secondary battery based on the impedance value acquired by the impedance acquiring section. |
| US09128165B2 |
Battery cell impedance measurement method and apparatus
A circuit arrangement for determining impedance of a battery cell is provided. A first circuit is configured to generate sine and cosine waveforms having N sample values per period. A second circuit is coupled to an output of the first circuit and is configured to input a current into the cell in response to the sample values of the cosine waveform. The current has an amplitude proportional to the sample values of the cosine waveform. A third circuit is coupled to the cell and configured to sample voltage levels across the cell resulting from the current being input into the cell. A fourth circuit is coupled to an output of the third circuit and is configured to separate each voltage level sampled by the third circuit into real and imaginary components. |
| US09128163B2 |
Voltage measuring apparatus for plural battery
In a voltage measuring apparatus for a plural battery according to the present invention, each of voltage detecting ICs (21-1) to (21-5) connects a switch SW1 to a reference voltage generator 24 and supplies a reference voltage Vf from the reference voltage generator 24 to an A/D converter 26. The A/D converter 26 digitizes the reference voltage Vf, which is transmitted to a main microcomputer 33. The main microcomputer 33 finds a theoretical value of the reference voltage according to an ambient temperature, compares the theoretical value with the measured value of the reference voltage Vf, and determines whether or not the voltage detecting accuracy of the first voltage detecting IC (21-1) is good. |
| US09128162B2 |
Estimating state of charge (SOC) and uncertainty from relaxing voltage measurements in a battery
Some embodiments of the present invention provide a system that estimates a state of charge for a battery. During operation, while the battery is relaxing toward a fully rested state, the system determines if a modified state of charge of the battery is substantially consistent with a predetermined decay pattern. If so, the system estimates the state of charge of the battery as a value of the modified state of charge determined at the time when the consistency is observed. Otherwise, the system continues monitoring the modified state of charge of the battery. In one embodiment, the predetermined decay pattern is a single exponential decay. After estimating the state of charge of the battery, the system may determine an uncertainty of the estimated state of charge. More specifically, the system can estimate the uncertainty as substantially equal to a fraction of the difference between the value of the modified state of charge and the value of the voltage-based state of charge at the time when the consistency is observed. |
| US09128160B2 |
Battery fuel gauge circuit
A detection circuit is mounted on an electronic device having a communication function, including at least a battery, a CPU, and a communication unit, and is configured to detect the remaining battery charge. An A/D converter performs sampling of a magnitude of a current IBAT discharged from the battery, and converts the current IBAT thus sampled into a digital current value. An interface circuit receives, from the CPU, control data which indicates a period in which there is an increase in the current discharged from the battery. Based upon the control data, a control unit raises the sampling frequency of the A/D converter in the period in which there is an increase in the current IBAT. |
| US09128156B2 |
Alternator and starter tester with other failures determination functionality and method
The diagnostic tool for testing the performance of a component of a vehicle may include a processor configured to process test information from a component of the vehicle and control and activate the component of the vehicle having identification information to be tested. The diagnostic tool may also include a memory configured to store the test information of the component and software that operates the component of the vehicle. The diagnostic tool may further include an interface module configured to provide information in addition to that of the test information of the component, wherein the additional information is related to the performance of a different vehicle component from the component, and wherein the means for storing and the means for providing are in communication with the means for processing. |
| US09128154B2 |
Apparatus for at-speed testing, in inter-domain mode, of a multi-clock-domain digital integrated circuit according to BIST or SCAN techniques
An embodiment is directed to extended test coverage of complex multi-clock-domain integrated circuits without forgoing a structured and repeatable standard approach, thus avoiding custom solutions and freeing the designer to implement his RTL code, respecting only generally few mandatory rules identified by the DFT engineer. Such an embodiment is achieved by introducing in the test circuit an embodiment of an additional functional logic circuit block, named “inter-domain on chip clock controller” (icOCC), interfaced with every suitably adapted clock-gating circuit (OCC), of the different clock domains. The icOCC actuates synchronization among the different OCCs that source the test clock signals coming from an external ATE or ATPG tool and from internal at-speed test clock generators to the respective circuitries of the distinct clock domains. Scan structures like the OCCs, scan chain, etc., may be instantiated at gate pre-scan level, with low impact onto the functional RTL code written by the designer. |
| US09128149B2 |
IC scan and test circuitry with up control circuitry
This disclosure describes die test architectures that can be implemented in a first, middle and last die of a die stack. The die test architectures are mainly the same, but for the exceptions mentioned in this disclosure. |
| US09128148B2 |
Package integrity monitor with sacrificial bumps
An apparatus with package integrity monitoring capability, includes: a package having a die connected to an interposer through a plurality of bumps, wherein at least some of the bumps comprise dummy bumps; a package integrity monitor having a transmitter to transmit a test signal and a receiver to receive the test signal; and a first scan chain comprising a plurality of alternating interconnects in the die and in the interposer connecting some of the dummy bumps in series, wherein the first scan chain has a first end coupled to the transmitter of the package integrity monitor and a second end coupled to the receiver of the package integrity monitor. |
| US09128147B2 |
Test head, test board and test apparatus
A test board can be inserted to a test head and removed from the test head while the connecting section for mounting thereon devices under test is mounted on the upper portion of the test head. A test head for retaining therein at least one test board for testing devices under test, includes: a casing provided with, on one side surface thereof, an opening through which the at least one test board is inserted and removed, the casing retaining therein the at least one test board with an upper side thereof oriented towards an upper surface of the casing; and a mounting member that guides a lower side of the at least one test board through the opening to a pre-set position, imposes an upward force to the lower side of the at least one test board, thereby mounting the at least one test board to the casing. |
| US09128146B2 |
Semiconductor integrated circuit
According to one embodiment, there is provided a semiconductor integrated circuit including an on-chip measurement circuit. The measurement circuit includes a buffer line, a ring oscillator, a first measurement unit measuring a duty cycle of a periodic pulse output from the buffer line, and a second measurement unit measuring a frequency of a periodic pulse output from the ring oscillator. The buffer line including a plurality of delay elements connected in series. Each of the plurality of delay elements includes a former-stage inverter unit including a PMOS transistor and an NMOS transistor and having a first delay amount, and a latter-stage inverter unit including a PMOS transistor and an NMOS transistor and having a second delay amount different from the first delay amount. |
| US09128135B1 |
System, method, and computer program product to provide wireless sensing based on an aggregate electric field reading
A system including a plurality of actuation devices with each actuation device configured to have a metalized and charged to an electrical potential rear part which moves to a designated position representative of a designated manipulation, when at least one actuation device is manipulated, a capacitive sensor array configured to measure a composite electric field produced by the plurality of actuation devices, an acquisition device configured to acquire electric field data indicative of the measured electric field, a converter configured to convert the acquired electric field data into analog values, and a processor configured to evaluate to the analog values to determine which of the at least one actuation devices was manipulated, how the manipulation reflects operation of the control panel, or to provide a response indicative of the manipulation. A method and a computer program product are also disclosed. |
| US09128134B2 |
Concurrent transformer test system and method
A tester for testing a transformer is provided. The tester comprises a primary voltmeter and a plurality of secondary voltmeters. The tester may also comprise an ammeter in series with a voltage source configured to apply voltage to the transformer. The primary voltmeter is configured to measure voltage induced across a primary winding of the transformer, while the secondary voltmeters may simultaneously measure voltage outputs at secondary windings of the transformer. The tester is configured to calculate ratios, saturation curves, and knee points for multiple winding combinations based on the measurements simultaneously obtained by the ammeter and the primary and secondary voltmeters. |
| US09128131B2 |
Device for measuring two phase power with single voltage input
A device and method for more accurately measuring power consumption in a residential application without having to make connections to high voltage sources in a distribution panel. Since the device calculating the power consumption generally needs to be powered to perform its functions (e.g., plugged into wall outlet), the disclosure utilizes the power supply as a voltage source for measuring voltage without having to make connections to the panel. |
| US09128129B2 |
Watchdog for voltage detector display
The present invention relates to a watchdog timer dedicated to the display controller of a voltage detector wherein the watchdog determines a malfunction in the microcontroller and triggers a visual warning to be displayed via the display controller. This prevents inaccurate voltage information from being displayed in the case of a microcontroller malfunction and thereby the user from being exposed to the risk of extreme injury through, for example, a high-voltage shock. |
| US09128127B2 |
Sensor device
Provided is a sensor device capable of removing the influence of each offset voltage of a sensor element, a differential amplifier, and an amplifier of the sensor device, to thereby detect a physical quantity with high precision. The sensor device includes: a switch circuit, which is connected to a first terminal pair and a second terminal pair of the sensor element, for controlling switching of the terminal pairs and outputting detection voltages; a differential amplifier, which includes a first input terminal and a second input terminal connected to a first output terminal and a second output terminal of the switch circuit, respectively, for outputting a result obtained by amplifying a difference of the detection voltages; an amplifier including at least two differential input pairs, one of which inputs the differential signal output from the differential amplifier, and at least one of which inputs a reference signal corresponding to a physical quantity to be detected; and a detection voltage setting circuit for outputting the reference signal to the amplifier. |
| US09128126B2 |
Oscilloscope and method, system thereof for collecting and displaying signal waveform
An oscilloscope and a method and system thereof for collecting and displaying signal waveform are disclosed, including a control measuring unit determining a corresponding test command and test parameter according to the selection of test points on a tested object; calculating position coordinate of each test point, and sending the test command and test parameter to an automatic collecting unit; the automatic collecting unit returning test signals of each test point collected by a collecting probe of the automatic collection unit to the control measuring unit according to the test command and test parameter; and the control measuring unit generating corresponding waveform data according to the test signals returned by the automatic collecting unit, storing and displaying the waveform data. |
| US09128123B2 |
Interposer test structures and methods
An embodiment of the disclosure is a structure comprising an interposer. The interposer has a test structure extending along a periphery of the interposer, and at least a portion of the test structure is in a first redistribution element. The first redistribution element is on a first surface of a substrate of the interposer. The test structure is intermediate and electrically coupled to at least two probe pads. |
| US09128121B2 |
Mechanism for facilitating a dynamic electro-mechanical interconnect having a cavity for embedding electrical components and isolating electrical paths
A mechanism is described for facilitating a dynamic electro-mechanical interconnect capable of being employed in a test system according to one embodiment. A method of embodiments of the invention may include separating, via a cavity, a first conductor of an interconnect from a second conductor of the interconnect, and isolating, via the cavity serving as a buffer, a first electrical path provided through the first conductor from a second electrical path provided through the second conductor. |
| US09128113B2 |
Vehicle orientation indicator
A vehicle orientation indicator comprises a sensor and a controller. The sensor is configured to sense a gravitational force component imposed on a vehicle. The controller is configured to determine an orientation of the vehicle with respect to a fixed plane based on the sensed gravitational force component and control an indicator device to provide a representation of the orientation of the vehicle. The controller is further configured to control the indicator device to update the representation of the orientation of the vehicle based on a change in the sensed gravitational force component as sensed by the sensor while a movement condition of the vehicle meets a prescribed condition, and to control the indicator device to refrain from updating the representation of the orientation of the vehicle while the movement condition fails to meet the prescribed condition. |
| US09128110B2 |
Device and method for measuring the speed of a haulage cable of a cableway, in particular a chairlift or a cable car
Device for measuring a haulage cable of a cableway, in particular a chairlift or a cable car, the haulage cable including marks, and the device including first and second sensors configured to transmit respectively first and second information signals relative to the presence of the marks, the second sensor being located at a reference distance from the first sensor, a first determination device configured to determine a phase shift between the first and second information signals and a second determination device for determining a speed information of the haulage cable from the determined phase shift and the reference distance. |
| US09128109B1 |
Method and system for detecting errors in indicated air speed
A method and system for detecting errors in indicated air speed of an aircraft. The method may include receiving current measured data values indicative of one or more of a pressure altitude, vertical speed, pitch attitude, and engine power of the aircraft by a computer, accessing a table having values of indicated air speed (IAS) corresponding to the current measured data values, and computing from the table and the current measured data values a current expected IAS, receiving current data values indicative of measured IAS of the aircraft, comparing the expected IAS data values to the measured IAS data values, and generating an alert signal when the expected IAS data values and measured IAS data values differ by a pre-set amount. The computer may include a software module that utilizes output from pre-existing on-board sensors, and may generate a signal to a crew alerting system. |
| US09128105B2 |
Urea-based synthetic urine and method of manufacturing same
A synthetic urine solution and method of its manufacture are disclosed. The solution includes water having a pH between about 3 and about 10. The solution further includes creatinine, a means for removing bacteria from the solution so as to control or eliminate sepsis of the urine solution, preferably through the use of a biocide, and a urea-based compound. The solution exhibits a specific gravity of from 1.005 g/cm3 to 1.025 g/cm3. Additional compounds may also be included to further enhance the aesthetics or apparent authenticity of the synthetic urine. |
| US09128096B2 |
Methods for determining cancer resistance to histone deacetylase inhibitors
Described herein are methods and compositions for determining whether a particular cancer is resistant to or susceptible to a histone deacetylase inhibitor or to histone deacetylase inhibitors. The methods include analysis of the expression levels of at least four biomarker genes associated with response to a histone deacetylase inhibitor. Also described herein are methods and compositions for increasing the likelihood of a therapeutically effective treatment in a patient, comprising an analysis of the expression levels of at least four biomarker genes associated with response to a histone deacetylase inhibitor. Also described herein are isolated populations of nucleic acids derived from a cancer sensitive to or resistant to a histone deacetylase inhibitor. Further described are kits and indications that are optionally used in conjunction with the aforementioned methods and compositions. |
| US09128093B2 |
Selective cytopheresis devices and related methods thereof
The present invention relates to systems and devices to treat and/or prevent inflammatory conditions within a subject and to related methods. More particularly, the invention relates to systems, devices, and related methods that sequester leukocytes and/or platelets and then inhibit their inflammatory action. |
| US09128090B2 |
Rapid way to obtain high expression clones of mammalian cells using a methylcellulose and immunoprecipitation screening method
The invention provides a genetic screening method for identifying a transfected cell expressing the polypeptide of interest. The methods allows for high throughput screening of recombinant cells for elevated levels of expression of the polypeptide of interest. The invention also provides capture media, formulations and methods of making and using thereof. |
| US09128089B1 |
Aflatoxin M1 nanobody 2014AFM-G2
Aflatoxin M1 nanobody 2014AFM-G2 has the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:7, and is encoded by the gene sequence of SEQ ID NO:8. The aflatoxin M1 nanobody 2014AFM-G2 obtained via screening has the properties of tolerance to organic reagents, tolerance to high temperature, tolerance to acids and bases and the like, and good stability. The aflatoxin M1 nanobody 2014AFM-G2 has 50% inhibiting concentration IC50 to aflatoxin M1 of 0.208 ng/mL, and has cross reaction rates with aflatoxin B1, B2, G1, G2 are 9.43%, 5.93%, 4.87% and 6.17%, respectively. |
| US09128087B2 |
Nuclear receptor assay
The present invention relates to methods for measuring compound efficacy and potency on nuclear receptor-co-regulator interaction, comprising the steps of (a) co-incubating at least one nuclear receptor and at least one compound under conditions that allow interaction; (b) co-incubating the nuclear receptor-compound mixture of step (a) with an array of co-regulators, under conditions that allow compound modulated receptor-co-regulator interaction; (c) determination of compound-modulated receptor-co-regulator interaction in function B of co-regulator concentration, and (d) determination of compound-modulated receptor-co-regulator interaction in function of compound concentration; wherein steps (c) and (d) are performed in a single assay. |
| US09128085B2 |
Rapid test for glycated albumin in blood
This invention describes a rapid assay for measuring the ratio of glycated albumin to total albumin in blood. Patients with diabetes have elevated levels of glucose in their blood that can react with plasma albumin to form glycated albumin. The amount of glycated albumin formed is directly correlated with the level of plasma glucose that the albumin has been exposed to over a period of time. The ratio of glycated albumin to total albumin in blood will provide an indication of the average amount of protein glycation that occurred over the preceding 2-3 week period.The test is performed using a disposable strip or cassette that contains the testing reagents and the results are measured in a measuring instrument that automatically reads, calculates and displays the final result. The results of tests performed over a period of time are stored in the instrument's memory and presented in a numerical or graphical format so that the individual's glycated albumin level can be monitored over time. |
| US09128081B2 |
TDP-43-storing cell model
Disclosed is a transformed cell (a cell model) which can form a cytoplasmic inclusion body derived from TAR DNA-binding protein of 43 kDa (TDP-43) that is found in the brain of a patient suffering from a neurodegenerative disease such as FTLD and ALS. The transformed cell is characterized by having, introduced therein, a promoter capable of functioning in a host cell and a mutant TDP-43 gene. |
| US09128080B2 |
Modified T cell receptors and related materials and methods
The invention is directed to a modified T cell receptor (TCR) comprising an amino acid sequence of a wild-type (WT) TCR with no more than three amino acid substitutions, wherein the modified TCR, as compared to the WT TCR, (i) has an enhanced ability to recognize target cells when expressed by CD4+ T cells and (ii) does not exhibit a decrease in antigen specificity when expressed by CD8+ T cells. Polypeptides, proteins, nucleic acids, recombinant expression vectors, host cells, populations of cells, antibodies, and pharmaceutical compositions related to the modified TCR also are part of the invention. Further, the invention is directed to methods of detecting a diseased cell in a host, methods of treating or preventing a disease in a host, and methods of identifying a candidate adoptive immunotherapy TCR. |
| US09128074B2 |
Detection method using colorimetric analysis
A detection method using colorimetric analysis of the present invention includes: providing a first solution in which two materials selected from metal nanoparticles, an oxidizing agent, and chloride ions are mixed; providing a second solution including one other material that is not included in the first solution among the metal nanoparticles, the oxidizing agent, and the chloride ions; preparing a mixture solution by mixing the first solution and the second solution; and testing and measuring a color change of the mixture solution. |
| US09128068B1 |
Sample conditioning systems and methods
Sample conditioning systems and methods especially useful for converting non-elemental forms of mercury to elemental form. The systems involve a reactor having a heater, with the reactor configured such that a heated sample is flowed through a calcareous sorbent during heating and then cooled in the presence of a solid metal that is more chemically active or less noble than mercury. The methods may be used as a part of an emissions monitoring process to insure compliance with emission standards and to precisely gage the amount of abatement needed. |
| US09128067B2 |
Test station for portable gas measuring devices
A test station for a plurality of test gases, includes a main unit (10) with a control (12) and test modules (20), each for a gas measurement device, that exchange data to register a type of gas measurement device and test gas(es) required for the device type. The control sets a schedule for a test using a test gas, or for a plurality of successive tests each with different test gases and carries out the specific test planned according to the schedule, in parallel with tests for all of the test modules for a test gas and determines, as an additional gas measurement device is inserted, based on the particular device type of the additional gas measurement device, whether the currently-running test with the current test gas is suitable for the inserted test module; and if the test gas is suitable, to start the test for this test module. |
| US09128066B2 |
System and method for analyzing a body fluid
The invention concerns a system for analyzing a body fluid comprising a collecting element which receives the body fluid in a reservoir, a test element designed to detect an analyte in the body fluid, a transfer device for making a fluidic connection between the collecting element and the test element, and a detection unit which detects an analyte-specific measurement signal on the test element during a measurement interval. According to the invention it is proposed that the transfer device always brings the test element into contact with the body fluid located in the reservoir during the measurement interval and that the transfer device is configured to physically separate the test element and the collecting element from one another after the measurement interval. |
| US09128064B2 |
Super resolution inspection system
The disclosure is directed to a system and method for inspecting a sample by illuminating the sample at a plurality of different angles and independently processing the resulting image streams. Illumination is directed through a plurality of pupil apertures to a plurality of respective field apertures so that the sample is imaged by portions of illumination directed at different angles. The corresponding portions of light reflected, scattered, or radiated from the surface of the sample are independently processed. Information associated with the independently processed portions of illumination is utilized to determine a location of at least one defect of the sample. Independently processing multiple image streams associated with different illumination angles allows for retention of frequency content that would otherwise be lost by averaging information from multiple imaging angles. |
| US09128063B2 |
Non-contact stress measuring device
Apparatuses and methods for measuring stress or strain in a conductive material without physical contact with the material are provided. The device comprises an inductor circuit configured to induce an alternating current into the material along a first path; and a detector configured to detect a signal representative of the stress in the material along the first path when current is induced in the material. |
| US09128061B2 |
Measuring device and method for detecting the hydrocarbon content in gases
The invention relates to a measuring device for detecting the hydrocarbon fraction in gases. The measuring device is characterized in that the measuring device determines the hydrocarbon fraction in a first gas flow and a second gas flow, both the first gas flow and the second gas flow originating from the same gas source, the first gas flow being fed to the measuring device unchanged and the second gas flow being fed to the measuring device prepared. |
| US09128060B2 |
Raman detecting system
A Raman detecting system includes a bowl shaped metal nanostructure array configured to load a sample, a projecting module configured to project a beam of light to the bowl shaped metal nanostructure array, and a receiving module configured to collect the light scattered by the bowl shaped metal nanostructure array. The bowl shaped metal nanostructure array includes a substrate having a surface and a number of particle-in-bowl structures located on the surface of the substrate. Each particle-in-bowl structure includes a bowl shaped concave structure and a protruding member protruding from the bowl shaped concave structure. The protruding member is integrated with the bowl shaped concave structure. |
| US09128055B2 |
Information processing apparatus, information processing method, program, and method of correcting intensity of fluorescence spectrum
Provided is an information processing apparatus including an estimation unit that expresses a light intensity distribution, which is obtained by irradiating light to a measurement object of a measurement target having a plurality of substances with mutually different responsive characteristics to the light on a surface and/or an inside of the measurement object, as a linear combination of light intensity distributions, which are obtained by irradiating the light to reference measurement objects, each of which has a single substance, models the light intensity distribution obtained from each of the reference measurement objects so as to follow a predetermined probability distribution, and estimates a combination coefficient of the linear combination from the light intensity distribution obtained from the measurement object of the measurement target. |
| US09128048B2 |
Method for online determination of cure status of glass fiber products
A method for assessing the cure status of a fibrous blanket manufactured with mineral fibers and binder is disclosed and comprises a using an online optical reflectance measurement as an assessment of cure status. The optical reflectance measurement may preferably be a color image taken of any surface, and in particular of a sectioned face, after which the image is optionally divided into multiple regions of interest (ROI) and analyzed for a color system variable that is representative of cure status. In some embodiments, the color system variable is the B value. Alternatively, the optical reflectance measurement may be UV or IR reflectance of a sectioned face. When two or more regions of interest are defined on a sectioned face, comparative information is valuable to assess cure at different levels, layers or portions of the interior of the fibrous product. |
| US09128042B2 |
Image capturing device and image capturing method
The present invention is applied for an image capturing device having a light source and a camera that captures an image of a measurement subject placed in an optical path that lies between said camera itself and said light source. The image capturing device according to the present invention includes a control unit that subtracts a plurality of frame images captured by said camera during an OFF period of said light source from a plurality of frame images captured by said camera during an ON period of said light source, the number of frame images captured by said camera during the OFF period being the same as that number of frame images obtained by said camera during the ON period and integrates the differences between their images. |
| US09128036B2 |
Multi-spectral imaging system and method of surface inspection therewith
A multi-spectral imaging system includes a first light source that emits a first wavelength and a second light source that emits a second wavelength different than the first wavelength. The system further includes a camera having a lens, a beam splitter downstream of the lens and a pair of sensors downstream of the beam splitter. The lens is configured to focus the first and second wavelengths onto separate ones of the sensors, and the beam splitter allows one of the first wavelength or the second wavelength to pass through the beam splitter, and the other of the first wavelength or the second wavelength to be reflected off the beam splitter. One of the pair of sensors is configured to receive the first wavelength to produce a first image and the other of the sensors is configured to receive the second wavelength to produce a second image different from the first image. |
| US09128035B2 |
Sensor for registering an analyte concentration
A sensor for registering analyte concentration includes: a housing; arranged within the housing, a sensor element, which has a front surface pressed toward a housing wall of the housing, and the sensor element has at least one contact element for electrical contacting accommodated within the housing, an inner electrolyte, which is in contact with a medium surrounding the housing via an electrochemical, liquid junction arranged in a housing wall, and a reference electrode extending into the inner electrolyte, wherein there is arranged within the housing a flexible circuit card, which includes at least a first conductive trace, which is connected with the at least one contact element of the sensor element, and at least a second conductive trace, which serves as potential sensing element of the reference electrode. |
| US09128026B2 |
Particulate matter processing apparatus
An amount of aggregation of particulate matter is estimated with a high degree of accuracy. A particulate matter processing apparatus in which a processing part with an electrode installed therein is arranged in an exhaust passage of an internal combustion engine, wherein particulate matter is caused to aggregate by generating a potential difference between the electrode and the processing part, is provided with a power supply that is connected to the electrode and applies a voltage thereto, a current detection device that detects an electric current which passes through the electrode, an estimation device that estimates an amount of aggregation of the particulate matter based on the electric current detected at the time when the voltage is applied to the electrode, an air fuel ratio detection device that detects or estimates an air fuel ratio of an exhaust gas which flows through the exhaust passage, and a prohibition device which prohibits an estimation by the estimation device in the case of a rich air fuel ratio. |
| US09128021B2 |
Holder for measuring permeability of unconsolidated sediment
Disclosed is a holder for measuring a permeability of an unconsolidated sediment. The holder includes a sediment installation part having a solid sediment attached to opposite ends of an unconsolidated sediment along a longitudinal direction; a transverse pressure supply part installed to surround the sediment installation part to supply a predetermined transverse pressure to the sediment installation part by using a fluid supplied from the outside; and a longitudinal pressure supply part installed at opposite ends of the transverse pressure supply part to cover opposite ends of the sediment installation part to be moved along a vertical direction so as to supply a predetermined longitudinal pressure to the sediment installation part. |
| US09128019B2 |
Pipeline condition detecting method and apparatus
The current invention relates to a method and apparatus for assessing the condition of a pipeline and also predicting the future rate of deterioration and/or possible failure of the pipeline. The method includes the steps of selecting at least one portion of the pipeline for which the prediction is to be made and, for that portion, monitoring or inspecting and assessing the condition of the pipeline wall, and typically also assessing the condition of any coating of the pipeline at said portion as well as the condition of the soil adjacent the pipeline. The measurement is performed along the length of the portion and preferably around the circumference of the pipeline at said portion. Data is collected for each cell of a grid which represents the said portion and on the basis of the measured data and, selectively, previous data and or reference data, an accurate prediction can be made as to the future condition of the pipeline and also identify potential future problems or required remedial works. |
| US09128017B2 |
Device, systems and methods for analyzing a target analyte
This disclosure is directed to a cap for obtaining a target analyte from a suspension. The cap introduces a magnetic field or a magnetic gradient to the tube to draw the target analyte bound to a particle to the cap. In one aspect, a cap includes a magnetic insert and a receiving piece. The magnetic insert includes a stopper and a magnet extending from the stopper; and, the receiving piece, which is configured to hold the magnetic insert, includes a receiving stopper and a sheath. The sheath may include imaging slides on opposite sides of the sheath. In another aspect, the cap may include a stopper and an embedded magnet. The cap may include an analysis piece on a bottom end of the stopper. In yet another aspect, the cap may include a fluid compartment and a filter at a bottom end of the stopper. |
| US09128013B2 |
Sampler for taking samples from melts having a melting point higher than 600 ° C. and method for taking samples
A sampler is provided for taking samples from melts having a melting point higher than 600° C., in particular for metal or cryolite melts. The sampler includes a carrier tube having an immersion end and having a sample chamber assembly arranged on the immersion end of the carrier tube. The assembly has an inlet opening and a sample cavity for the melt and is arranged at least partly inside the carrier tube. The sample chamber assembly has on a part of its outer surface a coupling device, arranged inside the carrier tube, for coupling a carrier lance. A method is also provided for taking samples using such a sampler. |
| US09128011B1 |
Method and device for testing extraction load
A method and device for objectively determining extraction loads for, or verifying capability to withstand loads for fasteners, sealants, or overlying materials attached to an underlying material. The method provides for a repeatable and objective test for comparing extraction load and load bearing capability of fasteners, sealants, or overlying materials attached to an underlying material to standards for the same. The portable device provides for testing various types of fasteners, sealants, or overlying materials attached to an underlying material in a repeatable and easily usable manner. The device comprises a means of generating, applying, and measuring load forces, and providing the data therefrom. |
| US09128006B2 |
System for measuring particulate emissions of aircraft engines on test benches
So as to verify compliance with limit values for harmful substances, large engines today must be tested in accordance with the regulations of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Presently neither a standardized measuring method nor a standard exists with respect to particulate emissions (ultrafine particles). The invention relates to the creation of a standardized transport system having the lowest possible loss for measuring ultrafine particles of aircraft engines, which can be operated simultaneously with the harmful substance measurement of aircraft engines stipulated until now. Appropriate instruments for measuring the particle count, mass and size distribution can be connected to this transport system. |
| US09128005B2 |
Metalized ceramic leading edge nozzle Kiels for high-temperature turbine applications
A pressure probe includes an elongated cable provided with a sensing tip, a portion of the elongated cable and sensing tip enclosed within a ceramic shroud, the ceramic shroud at least partially formed of a metalized ceramic material. |
| US09128003B2 |
Device for dynamically exciting a component and test stand with same
A device for dynamically exciting a component, in particular a chassis component of a motor vehicle has an actuator (10) with a piston rod (20) and an actuator housing (30). A connecting element (40) is coupled to the piston rod (20) of the actuator (10). A coupling (50) is coupled to the connecting element (40) for connection to the component. The connecting element (40) is coupled to the piston rod (20) in such a manner that the coupling is substantially moment-free. |
| US09128001B2 |
Testing apparatus
A testing apparatus includes a testing platform, a tray attached to the testing platform and substantially perpendicular to the testing platform, a pressing member substantially parallel to the testing platform and slidably attached to the tray, and a resilient member located between the tray and the pressing member. The pressing member is slidable relative to the tray between a first position and a second position. When the pressing member is located on the first position, a first distance is defined between the pressing member and the testing platform, for receiving an electronic device between the pressing member and the testing platform. When the pressing member is located on the second position, the resilient member is deformed, and a second distance, that is greater than the first distance is defined between the pressing member and the testing platform, for disengaging the electronic device from the testing platform. |
| US09128000B2 |
Potentiostat data link
A potentiostat data link (PDL) unit is provided which can remotely monitor the formation and growth of cracks in metal structures. A PDL includes a sealed box containing two or more modified potentiostats, a power supply, a CPU, a memory device, and computer networking capability. The PDL can be mounted in a remote, difficult-to-access location. Each potentiostat has a lead to a sensor affixed to a structure to be analyzed for the presence of growing cracks due to metal fatigue in a metal structure. |
| US09127995B2 |
Force transducer forming a load cell
A force transducer, in particular a weighing cell, includes a spring body, which deforms under the action of a force or load to be measured, and a sensor that includes two separate sensor parts mounted at different locations of the spring body and that generates a sensor signal which is dependent on the relative position of the sensor parts with respect to each other. In order to improve the adaptation of the sensor to the spring body, one of the sensor parts is attached to the spring body with interposition of an electromechanical actuator and a control device is present, which controls the actuator dependent on the sensor signal in the direction of a reduction in the positional difference of the sensor parts. |
| US09127992B2 |
Wide-area pressure sensor with reduced power consumption
The disclosure includes a system and method for implementing a wide-area pressure sensor with reduced power consumption. The system includes a first layer printed with conductive ink in a first pattern that includes a first portion of an AND array and a first portion of an OR array, a second layer printed with conductive ink in a second pattern that includes a second portion of the AND array and a second portion of the OR array, and a separation barrier that goes between the first layer and the second layer. These AND and OR array switches can be combined together in one or more zones to create a wide-area pressure sensor with reduced pincount and power consumption, and can be used to determine the location of pressure points in a wide-area. |
| US09127990B2 |
Lower threshold temperature indicator device
A device for indicating that an ambient temperature has fallen to or below a predetermined lower threshold temperature. The device includes: a porous membrane having first and second spatially separate zones; a first freezable liquid infused in the porous membrane, the first freezable liquid having a freezing point corresponding to the predetermined lower threshold temperature; a second liquid for contacting the first zone of the porous membrane, the second liquid being immiscible with the first liquid; and an indicator window for indicating migration of the second liquid from the first zone to the second zone. The membrane infused with the first liquid is impervious to the second liquid above the threshold temperature and is permeable to the second liquid at or below the threshold temperature. The device is useful in applications where products degrade below a certain lower threshold temperature. |
| US09127985B2 |
Method and apparatus for non-resonant background reduction in coherent anti-stokes raman scattering (CARS) spectroscopy
Embodiments of the invention provide a simple and robust system that allows non-resonant background to be removed from anti-Stokes signals generated during coherent anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy (CARS) even when using cheaper laser systems, which do not have transform limited pulses. In particular, resonant CARS signals have a real and imaginary component. The imaginary component is directly related to the spontaneous Raman spectrum, for which there are already large spectral databases to allow chemical identification. The NRB signal, on the other hand, only has a real component. Within embodiments of the invention we recover the imaginary component of the entire CARS signal by simultaneously generating two CARS signals at orthogonal polarisations: one has the imaginary components destructively interfering with (i.e. subtracted from) the real components, the other has them constructively interfering. Measuring these two polarisations and subtracting them therefore cancels out the real part of the signal, leaving only the imaginary components. |
| US09127984B2 |
SERS-active structure, fabrication method thereof, and SERS system comprising the same
A SERS-active structure includes a substrate, at least one metal nanoparticle, a dielectric layer and a metal nanolayer. The metal nanoparticles are disposed on the substrate. The substrate and the metal nanoparticles are covered by the dielectric layer, so that the dielectric layer forms a recessed portion with a dihedral angle formed by a surface of the dielectric layer at which the at least one metal nanoparticle contacts the substrate. The dielectric layer is covered by the metal nanolayer and the metal nanolayer has a gap located at and exposing the recessed portion. |
| US09127980B2 |
Method and structure for increasing receiving angle of optical sensor and handheld terminal
A method and a structure are provided to increase a receiving angle of an optical sensor. The structure includes touchscreen glass, an optical sensor, and a main board. An ambient light hole is provided on the touchscreen glass. The optical sensor is disposed between the touchscreen glass and the main board. A light uniformizing film is disposed between the touchscreen glass and the optical sensor, is in contact with the touchscreen glass, and completely covers the ambient light hole. A handheld terminal includes the foregoing structure. |
| US09127978B2 |
Measurement system and measurement method of fluctuations in weight of respective divided body parts, and utilization system and utilization method thereof
A system for rapidly and precisely measuring and recording changes and fluctuations in weight of respective divided body parts occurred from moment to moment in a given position is provided. In the system, divided body part weighing units for separately weighing all body parts and a measurement controlling and data processing unit for controlling the weighing units and for receiving the measured data from the weighing units and are connected so as to be freely transmittable. |
| US09127977B2 |
Level measurement apparatus
The invention provides a detector assembly for use in a nucleonic level gauge comprising: a) at least one radiation detector; b) electronic apparatus for controlling the at least one detector and processing the electronic signals produced by the at least one detector; and c) a photomultiplier; wherein all of said components (a)-(c) are capable of being enclosed in an elongate, radiation-permeable housing having a cross-sectional area which is substantially uniform along the length of the housing. A detector apparatus may contain a plurality of such detector assemblies contained within a single housing. The detector is preferably an elongate plastic scintillator. |
| US09127976B2 |
Method for determining crankcase breach and oil level
Embodiments for detecting crankcase breach are provided. In one example, a method includes indicating both crankcase ventilation system degradation and a crankcase oil sump level based on a common crankcase sensor. In this way, the same sensor can provide both crankcase breach detection and oil level determination. |
| US09127973B2 |
Validation method for pressure sensor signal at electrical controlled high pressure gas storage systems
A method for validating a pressure sensor between a source of a gas and a pressure regulator that regulates a gas flow. The method includes providing a valve command signal and selecting a bias signal from a bias table. The method also includes comparing the selected bias signal to the valve command signal and determining there is a pressure sensor error if the difference between the selected bias signal and the valve command signal is above a predetermined threshold. |
| US09127970B2 |
Hydraulic device
A hydraulic device including an autonomous electronic sensor assembly that has at least one miniature sensing element. Sensing elements of this type require a minimal amount of space. It is especially preferred if the sensor assembly has at least one miniature transmitter. As the hydraulic device does not then require any sensitive electric cables for signal transmission, the reliability of its monitoring capabilities is optimized. |
| US09127968B2 |
Flexible optical impact detection sensor for front rail mounted airbag
A flexible optical impact detection sensor is mounted on an outboard portion of the front bumper for signaling an offset rigid barrier impact event to a forward corner of a motor vehicle and deployment of a small offset rigid barrier airbag mounted on the front rail. The airbag is attached proximate a distal end of a front rail. The flexible optical impact detection sensor, attached to a rear surface of an outboard portion of the front bumper, generates a signal upon a corner impact event, whereby a controller processes the signal generated by the impact detection sensor and electrically actuates an inflator upon a predetermined impact severity. The airbag in the inflated condition acts against the offset rigid barrier to generate a lateral force against the offset rigid barrier to push the motor vehicle away from the barrier and thereby redirect impact energy by lateral movement of the motor vehicle. |
| US09127967B2 |
Encoder having plural phase acquirers and a positional information acquirer for precisely obtaining a position of a scale
An encoder includes a scale, a detector array that includes a plurality of detectors, and a signal processor configured to process and convert into positional information, an output signal from the detector array. The signal processor includes a first phase acquirer, a second phase acquirer, and a positional information acquirer configured to acquire Sv as a position signal that represents a position of the scale. Sv satisfies Sv=A·Φ1−B·Φ2 where A and B are coefficients that satisfy A/B=n/m using integers m and n that satisfy |(m·P1−n·P2)|<|(P1−P2)|. Φ1 is a first phase acquired by the first phase acquirer, Φ2 is a second phase acquired by the second phase acquirer, P1 is the first modulation period, and P2 is the second modulation period. |
| US09127966B2 |
Physical quantity detection apparatus and inspection method of physical quantity detection apparatus
A physical quantity detection apparatus includes a signal output section, a correction value calculation section, and a processing section. The signal output section outputs signals in accordance with a change in physical quantity of a detected object. The correction value calculation section calculates a correction value. The processing section corrects values based on actual output values of the signal output section with the correction value, calculates physical quantities of the detected object based on corrected values, and outputs calculated physical quantities. The correction value calculation section calculates the correction value based on primary error amounts that are differences between post-interpolation actual output values calculated by executing a linear function interpolation process to the values based on the actual output values within a predetermined physical quantity range and the values based on the actual output values corresponding to the post-interpolation actual output values. |
| US09127958B2 |
Shared ride driver determination
Values of a variable affecting the determination of the driver of a shared ride may be calculated. Each value may be associated with a respective potential driver. An optimal value from the calculated values may be selected. A potential driver associated with the selected optimal value may be assigned as the driver of the shared ride. The variable may be carbon emission, electricity consumption, passenger to driver role ratio, driving distance, driving time, vehicle size, fuel efficiency, electricity to gasoline usage ratio, accident occurrence, vehicle safety, vehicle comfort, or vehicle speed. The optimal value may be the lowest value or the highest value from the calculated values. Each value may be calculated based on parameters specified by the respective potential driver. |
| US09127952B2 |
Estimation of vehicle location
A method for estimating the position of a telematics-equipped vehicle during navigation includes: receiving a partial map corresponding to a route; receiving Global Positioning System (GPS) data corresponding to a current position of the vehicle; performing a closest street (CS) mapping based on the GPS data and the partial map so as to provide an estimation for a vehicle position on a street of the partial map; performing speed sum (SS) mapping based on the estimated vehicle position and speed readings corresponding to vehicle speed so as to provide an estimation of distance traveled with reference to a previous vehicle position; and presenting a map matched vehicle position to a user based on the CS mapping and the SS mapping. |
| US09127951B2 |
Interactive dynamic cloud navigation system
An interactive dynamic cloud navigation system includes a server including a database having a map; and a plurality of navigation terminals, wherein each navigation terminal includes a data collecting and storing module, a data transmitting module and an outputting module. The data collecting and storing module includes a GPS chip. The data transmitting module is for transmitting data between the navigation terminal and the server. The data includes geographic positions of the navigation terminal and map data correspondent to the geographic positions. The server is for initiating a mission according to a request from at least one user, so as to provide personalized and customized data service. |
| US09127946B1 |
System and method for identifying heading of a moving vehicle using accelerometer data
A computer implemented method for determining a yaw angle estimate or vehicle heading direction is presented. A data server may receive a plurality of telematics data originating from a client computing device and determine a first primary movement window from the telematics data. The data server may also determine a potential range of yaw angles from the plurality of telematics data from the first primary movement window and generate an equality that evaluates the potential range of yaw angles. The data server may further maximize the count of acceleration events of the telematics data from the first primary movement window to further generate one or more refined yaw angle estimates. The data server stores the one or more yaw angle estimates on a memory. |
| US09127944B2 |
Avionics display interface and method of operation
A method for operating a display unit such as an avionics display interface is provided. The method comprises displaying a plurality of logical categories of options available, with each of the logical categories including a plurality of items of information, selecting a first item of information in a first logical category when a first input key is pressed, and selecting a next item of information in the first logical category when the first input key is pressed again. The method further includes selecting a first item of information in a second logical category when a second input key is pressed, and selecting a next item of information in the second logical category when the second input key is pressed again. |
| US09127941B2 |
System for measuring vehicle distance and method thereof
The present invention relates to a vehicle distance measurement system and method in which a distance to a leading vehicle is measured using predetermined tread information of a tire of the vehicle in order to measure an accurate distance to the leading vehicle even when a vehicle runs at night. |
| US09127937B2 |
Method for measuring a chassis and device for measuring the chassis geometry of a motor vehicle
A method and device are described for measuring a chassis and for measuring the chassis geometry of a vehicle, which includes providing a chassis measurement system having four measurement heads situated in known positions relative to one another, of which each has a monocular image recording device, the position of the measurement heads relative to one another being known, and the distance of the front measurement heads from one another differing from the distance of the rear measurement heads from one another. |
| US09127935B2 |
Laser centering tool for surface areas
A laser centering tool for surface areas used to find the center point of a surface. The laser centering tool uses single or multiple laser sources to project a plurality of lines on a horizontal or vertical surface. It may comprise of multiple lasers, rotational plates, prism, beam splitter, gear housing, and/or a gear mechanism. At least one center laser line remains stationary between at least two edge laser lines. The edge lasers may be moved to outline the edge of a surface. At least one center laser projects a beam that indicates the center point of the edge lasers. The edge laser lines may be moved by rotational plates, a set of mirrors, or prism. |
| US09127930B2 |
Distance measurement system and method
A distance measurement method comprising: projecting a light beam having a speckle pattern to at least one reference plane to show a plurality of images with the speckle pattern on the at least one reference plane. The speckle pattern has a plurality of speckles, so as to capture the image with the speckle pattern on the reference plane to obtain a plurality of reference image information. When the object enters the area illuminated by a light source module, an image with the speckle pattern on a surface of an object is captured to obtain an object image information. Then, a plurality of brightness relationships among each of the speckles with adjacent speckles rounding each speckle are computed according to the reference image and the object image information to obtain relative brightness information of each speckle, which is used to compute position of the object. |
| US09127925B2 |
Method of 3-dimensional imaging of activated samples
In one embodiment, an apparatus comprises an optical system with multiple detectors and a processor. The optical system is configured to produce images of an optical source in a first dimension and a second dimension substantially orthogonal to the first dimension at each detector at a given time. Each image from the images is based on an interference of an emission from the optical source in a first direction and an emission from the optical source in a second direction different from the first direction. The processor is configured to calculate a position in a third dimension based on the images. The third dimension is substantially orthogonal to the first dimension and the second dimension. |
| US09127916B2 |
Blanket protection system
A blanket protection system that is adaptable for use in a military vehicle. The blanket protection system includes a blanket comprising a carrier, a ballistic insert, stitch lines, and a plurality of buckles. The portion of the stitch lines extend between at least a portion of the plurality of buckles. In addition, the carrier comprises an interior. Moreover, the ballistic insert is disposed in the interior. |
| US09127915B1 |
Self-healing composites
Lightweight self-healing composites comprise region-specific microstructures that dampen ballistic energy wherein the region-specific microstructures include at least one semi-crystalline thermoplastic and at least one nanoparticle nucleating agent. The distinctive region-specific microstructures allow the composites to dissipate high frequency and high amplitude shock wave into heat and reassemble itself into its original microstructure through reversible compression and decompression cycles. The region-specific microstructures comprise soft regions, comprised of highly polymeric entangled chains and hard regions, comprised of lamellae or spherullites anchored onto nanoparticle nucleating agents. The soft regions can trap the incoming energy shock wave while the hard regions provide the anchor sites, to allow the entangled chains to remain in place upon encountering ballistic impact. The anti-ballistic composites can be made in a monolithic form and do not significantly degrade under repeated fire. |
| US09127909B2 |
Firearm aiming system with range finder, and method of acquiring a target
An aiming system of an aimable device includes a user display, an imaging system, user controls, a tracker, and a range finder such as a LRF. The imaging system displays, on the user display, an indicator of the direction in which the device points. The user uses the user controls to lock on a target towards which the device points according to the indicator. Then the tracker tracks the target, and the range finder measures the range to the tracked target. The tracker aims the range finder at the target, or alternatively scans the target and its background, one-dimensionally or two-dimensionally. |
| US09127907B2 |
Precision guided firearm including an optical scope configured to determine timing of discharge
A precision guided firearm (PGF) includes a trigger assembly and an optical device coupled to the trigger assembly. The optical device is to predict a time when an aim point of the PGF is less than a programmable threshold distance from a selected location on a target and to control the trigger assembly to discharge the PGF at the time. |
| US09127906B2 |
Accessory mounting hand guard for firearm
Hand guards for firearms and related methods are provided. In one example, a hand guard includes an elongated housing. The elongated housing comprises a lumen configured to substantially surround an intermediate portion of a barrel of a firearm, a lateral side wall, and a pair of inclined side walls respectively disposed on opposite sides of and inclined relative to the lateral side wall. Each of the inclined side walls comprises an elongated slot, wherein the elongated slots of the inclined side walls define a pair of angulated faces of a rail adapted to receive an accessory to be mounted thereon. For example, the rail may be a reduced-height Picatinny rail provided by the lateral side wall of the housing. |
| US09127905B2 |
Receiver spur for a firearm
A receiver spur adapted to be mounted behind the trigger and the trigger guard of a firearm such as the AR-15. The spur is configured to substantially conformingly abut the surface of the receiver immediately behind the trigger guard and is secured to the receiver. |
| US09127904B2 |
Bayonet lug to picatinny rail adaptor
An adaptor allows accessories to be mounted to the bayonet lug rather than a Picatinny rail mounted to the hand guard of a rifle. The adaptor of the present invention allows accessories to be used while not interfering with the proper grip on the hand guard and without the need to replace the hand guard with one that has an integrated Picatinny rail. |
| US09127903B2 |
Body contoured handgun
A handgun curved to correspond more closely with the contours of a person's body, achieving a comfortable fit when the handgun is worn for any appreciable amount of time on the person's body. The handgun housing is inclusive of a top portion, an intermediate portion, and a grip portion, which may be separately connected or integrally formed parts sharing a radius of curvature to form asymmetric left and right sides, particularly a concave side and a convex side. This asymmetry extends beyond the grip portion and includes at least a portion of the trigger guard and a portion of the magazine securing clip. |
| US09127902B2 |
Projectile launcher having upper receiver pivotally coupled to lower receiver
A projectile launcher having an upper receiver capable of swinging away from a lower receiver is disclosed. In one aspect, the lower receiver having a first end and a second end contains a firing control chamber. While the second end is located closer to barrel of the launcher, the first end of launcher is located closer to a buttstock. The firing control chamber includes a gas channel, wherein one end of gas channel is coupled to a valve and another end of gas channel reaches to the top of external wall of the chamber. The upper receiver having a first end and a second end contains a bolt chamber. The second end of upper receiver and the second end of lower receiver are pivotally coupled whereby allowing the first end of upper receiver to be pivotally swung away from the first end of lower receiver. |
| US09127896B1 |
Multi-segmented tube sheet
A heat exchanger that is constructed with a heat exchanger shell having inlet and outlet plenums and fluid inlet and outlet ports, and a tube sheet construction disposed in the heat exchanger shell. The tube sheet construction includes at least two separate tube sheets and a plurality of tubes that extend between the separate tube sheets. Each tube sheet includes at least two planar tube sheet segments and an interstitial layer disposed between the at least two tube sheet segments, and at least one sensor element supported by each of the interstitial layers. A control monitor controls flow through the shell by a feedback control from the sensor to an inlet control valve and/or a stimulus device excites the media layer. |
| US09127892B2 |
Evaporator
The present invention relates to an evaporator, and more particularly, to an evaporator which can restrict a surface area of a communication hole with respect to a cross sectional area of a compartment and a surface area of a tube with respect to a surface area of a fin, thereby providing a dimensional extent for maximizing the heat exchange efficiency. Therefore, by optimizing a relation between the surface area of the communication portion and the surface area of the compartment of the first header tank and dimensions for each surface area and the heights of the tube and fin, the present invention provides a dimensional extent for maximizing the heat radiation amount, reducing the maximum temperature deviation of the core portion and allowing the refrigerant and air to be smoothly flowed, thereby maximizing the heat exchange efficiency. |
| US09127891B2 |
Furnace visualization
Methods, systems, and computer-readable and executable instructions are described herein. One method includes combining a plurality of images of a furnace into a composite image of the furnace, revising the composite image of the furnace to an intensity scaling, restoring a portion of the revised composite image of the furnace; and displaying a view of the restored revised composite image of the furnace to a user. |
| US09127889B2 |
Apparatus
Process for producing a polymer product in a slurry polymerization process, which slurry polymerization process includes a slurry heater for heating a stream of polymer product slurry withdrawn from a slurry reactor. The process includes reconfiguring the slurry heater from an initial slurry heater configuration to a subsequent slurry heater configuration and further where the slurry heater is reconfigured to form a subsequent slurry heater having a different total length and/or a different average internal diameter than the initial slurry heater. |
| US09127888B2 |
Industrial oven for curing composite material structures
An industrial oven system for curing composite material parts can include an oven compartment configured to receive a composite material structure therein that extends along a majority of the length and/or width of the compartment, the compartment having an inner wall that defines a cavity between proximal and distal ends of the compartment. A shroud can be disposed circumferentially between the inner wall of the compartment and an outer wall of the composite material structure. The shroud defines a first longitudinal annular channel between the inner wall and an outer surface of the shroud, and defines a second longitudinal annular channel between the outer wall of the composite material structure and an inner surface of the shroud. The shroud is contoured to direct a heated airflow longitudinally along the annular channels and over the composite material structure to cure the composite material structure, the heated airflow generally being at a higher temperature than a surface of the composite material part. One or more contour elements of the shroud can direct more heat to a corresponding thicker portion of the composite material structure generally aligned with the contour element relative to an amount of heat directed to adjacent relatively thinner portions of the composite material structure so as to effect a desired heating rate of the composite material structure to achieve a substantially uniform temperature along substantially the entire length of the composite material structure, thereby inhibiting warping of the composite material structure during a curing process. |
| US09127887B2 |
Device and method for transversely moving tubular material inside a furnace
The present invention relates to a device and a method for transversely moving tubular material inside a furnace, in which the tubes are able to roll in order to have a path per cycle that is 2.5 times as great as that obtained in the case of moving bars, and in which the tubes are pushed by a series of toothed bars that have an upward and downward movement plus a horizontal movement in vacuum. The device and a method for moving tubular material inside an furnace allows a greater rotation of the tubes over short cycle times, solves the problems of twisting of smaller-diameter tubes (tubing) in quench furnaces and meets the need to rotate the tubes when there is no forward movement, which may be necessary when cycle times are long or when unloading from the furnace is interrupted. |
| US09127883B2 |
Device for drying and preheating particulate feedstock
A device for drying and preheating particulate feedstock for glass melting apparatuses including a vertical shaft in which a plurality of gas guides are arranged level by level. The shaft has at least one gas channel for exhaust gases from the melting apparatus. a) feedstock guide elements are arranged one above another within the shaft with lateral spacings on all sides, with a portion of the gas guides extending through the guide elements, b) at least one of the guide elements is mounted in a transversely movable fashion with respect to the shaft independently of other guide elements, c) the guide elements are provided with converging oblique surfaces for introducing the feedstock at upper ends of the guide elements and with converging oblique surfaces for the emergence of the feedstock at lower ends of the guide elements, and d) at least one guide element is connected to a vibrating drive. |
| US09127881B2 |
Point of dispense chilling for blended iced beverage machines
A machine for dispensing blended iced beverages is characterized by a cabinet for storing a plurality of supplies of beverage ingredients and a refrigeration system for chilling an interior of the cabinet to chill the beverage ingredient supplies. A duct extends between the cabinet interior and a remote point of delivery of the beverage ingredients and a tubing bundle extends from the supplies and through the duct to the delivery point to deliver beverage ingredients from the supplies to the delivery point. The interior of the duct is chilled to chill the tubing bundle and beverage ingredients in the tubing bundle, so that chilled beverage ingredients are always provided to the point of delivery, even when the machine is idle for an extended period of time. Various techniques are provided for chilling the interior of the duct. |
| US09127878B2 |
Tilt-out bin and removable crisper
A storage structure (20) is provided for mounting within a refrigerator compartment (12). The storage structure (20) includes a slide unit (30) attached within the refrigerator compartment (12). The slide unit (30) is removably attached within the refrigerator compartment (12) and includes one or more projections (46) extending outwardly from the slide unit (30) for engaging receiving structures (18) within the refrigerator compartment (12). The storage structure (20) further includes at least one bin (22) removably attached to the slide unit (30), the at least one bin (22) includes an engagement structure that movably attaches the bin (22) to the slide unit (30). |
| US09127876B2 |
Snap off center flipper mullion
A refrigerator assembly includes a mullion assembly movably attached with respect to the refrigerator assembly. The mullion assembly includes a mullion portion defining a mullion recess. The mullion recess receives a biasing device for engaging a follower. A hinge assembly is attached to the mullion portion such that the mullion portion is movable with respect to the hinge assembly between a first position and a second position. The hinge assembly includes a first recess for receiving the follower when the mullion portion is in the first position. The hinge assembly further includes a second recess for receiving the follower when the mullion portion is in the second position. |
| US09127871B2 |
Ice making, transferring, storing and dispensing system for a refrigerator
An ice making, transferring and storing system includes an icemaker located in the fresh food compartment and an ice storage bin, located in one of the fresh food and freezer compartments, for receiving ice from the icemaker. A first ice transfer mechanism delivers ice from the icemaker to the ice storage bin. An ice dispenser is located in one of the fresh food and freezer doors. A second ice transfer mechanism selectively delivers ice from the ice storage bin to the ice dispenser. |
| US09127868B2 |
Heat exchanger and a heat pump using same
A heat exchanger having a plurality of heat-transfer tubes arrayed at intervals in vertical and anteroposterior directions and arranged so that an equilateral triangle is formed by lines connecting the centers of heat-transfer tubes located vertically and anteroposteriorly adjacent to each other; and a plurality of heat-transfer corrugated fins arranged at intervals in an axial direction of the heat-transfer tubes, characterized in that when an external diameter of each of the heat-transfer tubes is V1; a vertical pitch of the heat-transfer tubes is V2, a fin pitch of the heat-transfer corrugated fins is V3, a fin plate thickness of each of the heat-transfer corrugated fins is V4, and a corrugate height of the heat-transfer corrugated fins is V5, any one of V2, V3 and V5 is set within a given range. |
| US09127867B2 |
Heat source unit
According to one embodiment, a heat source unit apparatus includes air heat exchangers, each includes a plurality of fins arranged at prescribed intervals, heat exchanging pipes penetrating the fins, and bent strips extending at sides and bent in the same direction, and a heat exchange module includes two air heat exchangers, each having the bent strips opposed to those of the other air heat exchanger, the air heat exchangers being inclined such that lower edges are close to each other and upper edges are spaced apart, whereby the heat exchange module is shaped like a letter V as seen from side. |
| US09127855B2 |
Fan assembly
A fan assembly includes a nozzle and a body on which the nozzle is mounted. The nozzle has a first air inlet, a first air outlet, and a first interior passage for conveying air from the first air inlet to the first air outlet. The nozzle also includes a second air inlet, a plurality of second air outlets, and a second interior passage for conveying air from the second air inlet to the second air outlets. The body generates a first air flow through the first interior passage and a second air flow through the second interior passage. A first air passageway conveys the first air flow to the first air inlet and a second air passageway conveys the second air flow to the second air inlet. One of the temperature, humidity, composition and electrical charge of the second air flow is changed before it is emitted from the nozzle. |
| US09127850B2 |
Air conditioner using photovoltaic energy
An air conditioner using photovoltaic energy is provided. The air conditioner may include a photovoltaic cell for converting photovoltaic energy into Direct Current (DC) power, an indoor unit for exchanging heat, and an outdoor unit for exchanging heat. Photovoltaic power generated by the photovoltaic cell may be supplied to the indoor unit and used as at least one of standby power in a standby mode, consumption power in an automatic photovoltaic mode, or auxiliary power in a cooling mode. |
| US09127849B2 |
Cooking appliance
Provided is a cooking appliance. Steam generated in a steam generation part is selectively supplied into a cooktop part or an oven chamber. The steam supplied into the cooktop part is used for soaking foreign materials attached to a top surface of the top plate to remove the foreign materials. Thus, the steam generated in one steam generation part may be used in a lot of uses. |
| US09127844B2 |
Fuel nozzle
A fuel nozzle is provided and includes a nozzle body defining first and second interior regions for providing a supply of first and second fluids, a collar defining a third interior region and radial slots permitting radial ingress of a third fluid to the third interior region and a nozzle tip interposed between the nozzle body and the collar. The nozzle tip defines an annular slot, first discrete passageways by which the first fluid is communicated from the first interior region to the annular slot, second discrete passageways by which the first fluid is communicated from the annular slot to the radial slots, and third discrete passageways by which the second fluid is communicated from the second interior region to the radial slots. |
| US09127835B2 |
Boiler steam amount measuring method, boiler load analyzing method, boiler steam amount measuring apparatus, and boiler load analyzing apparatus
A boiler steam amount measuring method for continuously measuring a temporal change in an amount of steam from a steam boiler, includes: first measuring a differential pressure between a pressure at a first detection position that is a predetermined position in a can body of the steam boiler or a steam outflow path, and a pressure at a second detection position in the steam outflow path separated from the first detection position toward a downstream side; first calculating a pressure loss coefficient based on the differential pressure measured by flowing a predetermined flow rate of steam or fluid instead of steam into the steam outflow path, and the predetermined flow rate; and second calculating continuously the amount of steam based on the differential pressure measured in the first measuring and the pressure loss coefficient calculated in the first calculating, and outputting the calculated amount of steam as a measurement value. |
| US09127834B2 |
Cyclone separator for the phase separation of a multiphase fluid stream, steam turbine system having a cyclone separator and associated operating method
A cyclone separator for phase separation of a fluid stream has a rotationally symmetrical housing with a hollow chamber. Feed lines feed the fluid stream into the housing substantially tangentially. At least one discharge line conducts the separated gaseous fraction. In order to ensure uniform and homogeneous flow distribution of the steam to be heated as it enters the heating phase, the hollow chamber, when viewed in the radial direction from the mid-axis, has an outflow chamber with a circular cross section and, in radial sequence, a heating chamber, an intermediate chamber, a dryer chamber and an inflow chamber. The inflow chamber is outwardly delimited by the housing. The heating chamber contains heating elements for heating the gaseous fraction. At least one fine separator and at least one associated condensate-collecting trough are arranged in the dryer chamber. The condensate-collecting trough is connected to a condensate discharge pipe in the intermediate chamber for conducting the condensate forming in the fine separator out of the hollow chamber. |
| US09127830B2 |
Surface light source apparatus and liquid crystal display apparatus
In a surface light source apparatus 1 for irradiating light in a planar form by arranging a plurality of tubular light sources 2 at high density in the middle of a screen so that brightness at the middle of the screen is high, each tubular light source 2 positioned in rows at topmost and bottommost edges is arranged to be closer toward screen corner sections in a plan view so as to compensate for lack of brightness at the screen corner sections in a plan view. In this manner, each tubular light source 2 is arranged by placing each tubular light source 2 in the rows at the topmost and bottommost edges closer in a row direction toward each corner section B of the reflection sheet 5. Thereby, brightness at the middle of a screen is maintained and enhanced, and display quality at corner sections of the screen is improved. |
| US09127829B2 |
AC LED array module for street light applications
A street light includes a pole, arm and a head attached to the pole, wherein the head comprises a light source having a plurality of solid state light emitting devices and an optical element configured to produce a light distribution pattern from light emitted from the solid state light emitting devices, wherein the light source is configured to be powered directly from an AC source. |
| US09127824B2 |
LED lamp
A LED lamp includes a number of lenses each of which includes a light emitting surface and a plurality of shades mounted on the light emitting surface. Each of the shades includes a hole whose sectional area in radial direction is equal to that of the light emitting surface. An axial height of the hole follows the formula H φ = ϕ max tan θ max , wherein Hφ is the axial height of the hole, φmax is a diameter value of the light emitting surface, and θmax is an output angle of the lens. Accordingly, a work area of the anti-glare LED lamp can be extend the most thereof since the shades block the stray light of a glare area of the LED lamp and strictly separates the work area from the glare area, and no stray light shot into eye in any areas. Therefore, the anti-glare LED lamp can achieve light distribution as designed without glare under cooperation of the lenses and the shades. |
| US09127820B2 |
Intelligent lighting tile system powered from multiple power sources
This invention relates to a power unit for a lighting system. Said power unit includes a mains power input (2), output terminals (3a, 3b) and a power supply (5) for regulating a supply voltage (V1) of the power unit (1). The power unit further comprises a polarity detector (13), a voltmeter (11) for measuring a voltage (V2) at said output terminals (3a, 3b) and a current meter (12) for measuring a current (A) at said output terminals (3a, 3b). The power unit also comprises a control unit (7), wherein said control unit (7) is arranged to initiate a power up procedure delay of random length after the power unit (1) has been switched on and wherein said control unit (7) is arranged to process information from the voltmeter (11), the current meter (12) and the polarity detector (13), and to control a power output of the power unit (1) on basis of said information. |
| US09127819B2 |
Light-directing apparatus with protected reflector-shield and lighting fixture utilizing same
A light-directing apparatus for predominantly forward distribution of light from a light emitter having an emitter axis. The light-directing apparatus includes a forward-reflective surface entirely within a lens member positioned over the light emitter. The lens member has an outer surface and an inner cavity including an emitter-light-receiving void and a light-reflecting void which is contiguous with the emitter-light-receiving void and is different in configuration than the emitter-light-receiving void. The forward-reflective surface is in the light-reflecting void in position in the path of light emitted rearwardly. |
| US09127810B2 |
Injection molding machine with motor power interruption function
An injection molding machine has a motor power interruption function such that it is determined whether or not the respective contents of preset first and second interruption criterion settings are different from each other. If the contents of the two settings are determined to be different from each other, then a third motor power interrupt signal is output so that at least one of first and second motor power interruption units is cut off in response to the output signal, thereby interrupting power supply to a motor. |
| US09127808B2 |
Minimal lubrication device
A minimal lubrication device including a storage reservoir for a lubricant fluid and a pump for the lubricant, the pump being of high pressure type with its delivery port connected to at least one modular element adapted to mix a compressed air flow with the lubricant. The modular element presenting a mixer element fed with a compressed air flow into which an outlet of a flow regulator fed by the lubricant originating from the pump opens. |
| US09127805B2 |
Mounting clips and decorative mounting articles
Mounting clips and decorative mounting articles removably engage to vertically disposed mounting surfaces, such as rain gutter downspouts. The mounting clips support arms, hooks, plates, decorations, and brackets for display of banners, flags, security lights, decorative lights, etc., on a downspout or other comparable mounting surface. The mounting clips include a frame having arms with projections separated by channels configured for attachment to a profiled outer surface of the mounting surface. Decorative mounting articles include a rear section forming channels having inner sidewalls with engagement portions configured for direct attachment of the decorative mounting article to a profiled outer surface of the mounting surface. |
| US09127802B2 |
Pipeline pig and launching apparatus
The present invention provides a pipeline pig (10) comprising an elongate body (12) and annular front and rear supports (26,30) projecting radially from the body (12). Each support (26,30) has an upstream side and a downstream side, with the front support (26) including at least one first fluid passage (18) permitting fluid flow from the upstream side to the downstream side. and the rear support (30) including at least one second fluid passage (22) permitting fluid flow from the upstream side to the downstream side. The pig further comprises a launch valve (50) adapted to move from an open position to a closed position to close the at least one first fluid passage (18), and a control means adapted to control the closing of the launch valve (50). A launch trap for launching pigs into a pipeline is also provided. |
| US09127801B1 |
Drip containment apparatus, system, and method
Provided is a drip containment apparatus that in certain example embodiments may comprise a ceramic body having a glazed exterior surface and an unglazed interior surface defining a cavity therein, and an aperture defining an opening from the exterior surface to the interior surface, the aperture and interior surface being adapted to receive therein a distal portion of a funnel and to support the funnel so that residual fluid inside the funnel will tend to drip into the interior of the ceramic body and be absorbed into the ceramic body but not leak through the glazed exterior surface. A support structure may be provided to support the ceramic body while it is holding the funnel. The ceramic body may be ornamental in appearance. In one embodiment the ceramic body is adapted to be hung on a wall during use. |
| US09127800B2 |
Duct for air-conditioning circuit incorporating a noise-reducing device, and such a circuit incorporating it
A duct for fluid under pressure for an air-conditioning circuit having a conduit including a male end fitting of nominal inside diameter D0 and a female end fitting connected to it in a fluid-tight manner in or in the immediate vicinity of an enlarged axial portion of inside diameter D2 of the male or the female end fitting, the female end fitting having a nominal inside diameter D0′, and a tubular noise-reducing device that is mounted inside the male end fitting and defines between an axially internal end and an axially external end of this device at least one fluid flow channel. The enlarged portion of the male or female end fitting has a length L2 such that L2≧0.6D, where D designates their common value if D0 and D0′ are equal or whichever is the lower of the values D0 and D0′ if they are not equal. |
| US09127799B2 |
Fluid conduit with variable flow resistance
A fluid-carrying conduit achieves variable resistance to flow. An elongate, hollow body casing has at least one chamber containing either a dilatant fluid or an electroactive polymer. In the case of the dilatant fluid, a reduction in an effective flow cross section of the fluid line occurs in reaction to an increase in the shear rate of a fluid flowing through the fluid line. In the case of the electroactive polymer, a reduction in an effective flow cross section of the fluid line occurs in reaction to an electric current being applied to the body casing. The conduit may be configured for use as a degassing line in a cooling system of an internal combustion engine. The conduit may have a reinforcement encircling the electroactive polymer. The conduit may have an electrically conductive connecting surface adjacent to the electroactive polymer. The electroactive polymer may be an ionic electroactive polymer. |
| US09127795B2 |
Conduit joining apparatus
Apparatus for joining a first conduit to a second conduit comprising a first coupler for attachment to an end of the first conduit, a second coupler for attachment to an end of the second conduit and for engagement to the first coupler, and a snap-fit fastener for fastening the first coupler to the second coupler. The snap-fit fastener is arranged in at least two portions to fit around the periphery of the first and second couplers when the first and second couplers are engaged. The apparatus enables relative movement between the first coupler and the second coupler. |
| US09127793B2 |
Power umbilical comprising separate load carrying elements of composite material
A power umbilical for transfer of large amounts of electric power, fluids and electric current/signals from the sea surface to equipment deployed on the sea bed, in particular in deep waters includes a number of electric power conducting cables, pipes and electric conductors/wires collected in a bundle, a filler material lying at least partly around and between the pipes, cables and the conductors/wires, and a protective sheath enclosing the pipes, cables conductors/wires and filler material. The load carrying elements of the power umbilical are light weighted rods of composite material that can either be collected in bundles or appear individually or in a combination thereof. |
| US09127790B2 |
Coupler for corrugated pipe
A coupler for a corrugated pipe that is provided with a sealing member mounted inside a fastening member and made of a softer metal material than the corrugated pipe, thereby preventing the fastening member from being damaged due to the fastening force of a cap nut, and that is provided with a grounding portion formed at the front portion of a metal sleeve in such a manner as to enter a coated layer of a composite member and to be grounded to a metal braided net of the composite member when the cap nut is fastened, thereby protecting the corrugated pipe from lightning. |
| US09127789B2 |
Fixing system for cables, in particular in wind turbines
A fixing system for cables, in particular in wind turbines, includes a main body (1) that can be fixed to a supporting structure and cable holders (11) that have an opening for cables to be inserted. Each opening can be closed by a cover device (45). The cable holders (11) are mounted on the main body (1) and in an arrangement extending at least over a part of a circle with the opening of the cable holders on the outside. The cover device includes retaining elements (45), by which the opening of the respective cable holders (11) can be blocked to secure inserted cables. |
| US09127779B2 |
Low power electric operated thermostatic mixing valve
A frictionless, pressure balanced proportioning valve assembly, for low power electric operated thermostatic cartridge, composed of a housing with spaced apart hot and cold water inlets and intermediate mixed water outlet, flow communicated to a spool bore with a central widened portion; a spool, guided in the spool bore, by widened end portions, is carrying a central widened disk portion, separating the spool bore into two tubular inlet chambers; two diaphragm seals disposed at both ends of the spool and housing, pressure balancing the inlet chambers; a temperature sensor, exposed to the mixed water outlet pathway, generates a signal, readable by a control circuit; a drive unit energized by a low power electric motor, driving past gear train and eccentric shaft, a bendable connecting rod, axially displacing the spool. Axial displacement of the balanced friction-free spool, proportions flow from the hot and cold water inlets to the mixed water outlet. |
| US09127778B2 |
Flush valve
A flush valve has a valve body having an inlet and an outlet, and a piston disposed in the valve body between the inlet and said outlet to regulate flow through the valve body. The piston has a shoulder. A neck depends from the shoulder and has a smaller perimeter than the shoulder. And, a flange depends from the neck and has a larger perimeter than the neck. Better flow characteristics of fluid about the shoulder, neck, and flange minimize noise coming from the valve and increase reliability thereof. |
| US09127777B2 |
Reversing valve for a high-viscosity medium
A reversing valve (100) for a high-viscosity medium comprises a housing (10) having an inlet opening (23) and at least two outlet openings (21, 22), extending into a valve bore in which is mounted an axially displaceable valve stem (10, 10′). The valve stem comprises a groove by which the inlet opening (23) is alternatively to be connected to one of the outlet openings (21, 22). The groove has an axially extending inflow zone (12) and an axially extending outflow zone (11, 11′). The inflow and outflow zones are connected at both ends to a continuous annular channel by way of connecting channels (13, 14). |
| US09127766B2 |
Bicycle derailleur
A bicycle derailleur is basically provided with a base member, a movable member and a connecting structure. The base member includes a bicycle mounting portion. The movable member is movable with respect to the base member between a first position and a second position that is farther than the first position from the base member. The connecting structure movably connects the movable member to the base member. The connecting structure moves the movable member with an actuation ratio that descends and then ascends as the movable member moves from the first position towards the second position. |
| US09127763B2 |
Motor housing with integrated gears
A motor housing with integrated gears includes a motor having a first shaft, the motor configured to actuate the first shaft, a dowel, the dowel rotatably coupled to the first shaft, an encoder configured to surround the dowel, the encoder being configured to measure an angular velocity of the first shaft, a gear system in meshed communication with the first shaft, and a second shaft in meshed communication with the gear system such that the motor is operable to transmit power to the second shaft. The housing further includes at least one seal, the seal located on the dowel between the first end and the second end of the dowel and creating a barrier such that the dowel is rotatable within the seal while preventing migration of lubricant on the at least one gear into the encoder. |
| US09127762B2 |
Reservoir for transmission fluid
In one embodiment, an Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) reservoir is provided. The reservoir includes housing that is combined with a transmission containing ATF and into/out of which the AFT flows. The reservoir also includes a heating body that is combined with the housing and heats the ATF flowing within the housing by generating heat when power is applied. |
| US09127756B2 |
Multi-ratio transmission
A multistage transmission with eight forward and one reverse gear, including an input and output shafts, planetary gearsets, gear stages, shift elements and shafts. The input shaft couples the carrier of gearset (P1) and, via clutch (15), can couple shaft (5) that couples the sun gear of gearset (P3) and, via clutch (58), can couple shaft (8) connected to the ring gear of gearset (P2). The ring gear of gearset (P1) couples shaft (6) connected to the sun gear of gearset (P2). Shaft (3) couples the sun and ring gears of respective gearsets (P1, P3) and can couple, via brake (03), the housing. The carrier of gearset (P2) couples shaft (4) gear stage (S1) which couples the output shaft. The carrier of gearset (P3) couples shaft (7) gear stage (S2) which couples the output shaft. Clutch (56) can couple shafts (5, 6). |
| US09127752B2 |
Method of reducing a rotational output rate from a coaxially arranged rotating input
A method of rotating an output gear at a rotational rate that is slower than an input rotational rate. The input rotation moves a planetary gear in a circular motion about a central axis. A first stage external gear configuration of the planetary gear engages with an internal gear configuration of a stationary gear. The engagement rotates the planetary gear about a concentrically located planetary gear rotational axis. A second stage external gear configuration is rotated by and at a same rate the first stage external gear configuration. The first stage diameter and/or number of teeth differs from the second stage diameter and/or number of teeth. The planetary gear rotation in conjunction with the difference between the first and second stages causes the output gear to rotate respective to the stationary gear. Rotational positioning of the output gear can be monitoring and adjusted by controlling the input rotational rate. |
| US09127748B1 |
Cable fastener
A device having at least two channels, each channel having a corresponding locking element which restricts movement of a cable, guy wire, rope, cord, or the like to one direction. Methods for using the device to splice cables, form loops, and secure a cable to and apply tension to a fixed structure, such as a telephone pole. |
| US09127745B2 |
Rotatable damper
A rotatable damper (100) comprises a mass (110) fully rotatable around an axis of rotation configured for self-damping a mechanical disturbance. The rotatable mass comprises a fully rotatable structure comprising an outer frame (2100) and an inner frame (2400) bound to rotate with the fully rotatable structure and further movable one relative to the other in at least one axis and a first chamber (3200), disposed between the outer frame and the inner frame, containing a fluid and comprising a first opening in direct communication with a first constriction (3300). The first chamber is readily compressible between a first portion of the outer frame and a second portion of the inner frame when forcibly approached by said mechanical disturbance. The first chamber, when compressed, is configured to expel at least partially the fluid through the first constriction, thereby facilitating damping of the mechanical disturbance. |
| US09127743B2 |
Chassis bushing with integrated travel limiter
A mold bonded chassis bushing has an outer housing and an inner member separated by a tubular gap. A body of elastomeric material is mold bonded into a first portion of the bushing such that it bridges and at least partially fills the gap. The elastomeric material does not fill or bridge the annular gap in a central area or a second portion of the bushing, such that a void is defined between the inner surface of the outer housing and the outer surface of the inner housing in the central area and second portion. A protrusion extends from the inner surface of the outer housing or the outer surface of the inner member, in the central area such that the void extends between the protrusion and the respective opposed surface. The protrusion functions as a travel limiter for the bushing without compressing the elastomeric material in the first portion. |
| US09127736B2 |
Working device
The present invention relates to a working device having an element movable via at least one working drive, with at least one energy recovery cylinder being provided for recovering energy from the movement of the movable element and having a chamber filled with gas. In this respect, the energy recovery cylinder has a sealing arrangement for sealing the chamber filled with gas which includes an annular space filled with oil. |
| US09127728B2 |
Method for the load-free opening of a separating clutch
A method is provided for the load-free opening of a separating clutch. The method includes the following steps: receiving a signal for disengaging the clutch; applying a negative torque at the separating clutch using a drive machine; applying a positive, predefined torque at the separating clutch using the drive machine; and opening the separating clutch as soon as the amount of the torque applied at the separating clutch lies within predefined limit values. In other words, a torque in the known range of the system is set via a drive-side deceleration. Then, a drive-side acceleration takes place, so that the torque is increased on the drive side, starting from the known range of the system, until it generally matches the torque on the output side. This enables a load-free opening of the clutch. |
| US09127723B2 |
One-way clutch and power generating apparatus
A one-way clutch is arranged between an output shaft of a speed increaser and a drive shaft of a generator in a wind power generator. The one-way clutch includes an inner ring, an outer ring, a plurality of rollers arranged between an outer periphery of the inner ring and an inner periphery of the outer ring, a cage that retains the rollers at predetermined intervals in a circumferential direction, and a plurality of elastic members that is attached to the cage and that urges the corresponding rollers in one direction. The cage includes a pair of axially facing annular portions and a plurality of cage bar portions formed separately from the annular portions, both axial end portions of each of the cage bar portions being fitted to the respective annular portions. |
| US09127721B2 |
Torsional damper for clutch
A torsional damper (1) comprises a hub (2) coupled to a radial annular web (6); two guide washers; elastic members (9); and friction means, relative angular deflections of the guide washers and the annular web (6) being limited in a first rotation direction (D) by a first series of stops (23) of the guide washers that interact with a first series of protruding parts (25) of the annular web (6), and in a second rotation direction (R) by a second series of stops (24) of the guide washers that interact with a second series of protruding parts (26) of the annular web (6). |
| US09127719B2 |
Method of manufacturing a bearing assembly
A method of manufacturing a bearing assembly includes the steps of providing first (38) and second (42) cage frames, each including a plurality of holes (46) spaced along a circumference of the respective first and second cage frames (38, 42), positioning a plurality of rollers (22) between the first and second cage frames (38, 42), each of the rollers (22) including a bore (26) coaxial with a rotational axis (30) of the respective rollers (22), aligning the bore (26) of a first of the plurality of rollers (22) with a first hole (46) in each of the respective first and second cage frames (38, 42), then sliding a threaded end (54) of a pin (50) through the first hole (46) in the first cage frame (38) and the first roller (22) a sufficient distance to engage the second cage frame (42). The method further includes rotating the pin (50) to form a screw thread in the first hole (46) of the second cage frame (42) with the threaded end (54) of the pin (50). |
| US09127718B2 |
Rotation detection set and bearing assembly comprising such a detection set
A rotation detection set comprises an encoder washer rotatable around a rotation axis, at least one sensor adapted to detect a rotation parameter of the encoder washer through an air gap, a support member for holding the sensor with respect to the rotation axis and a mounting member for immobilizing the support member with respect to a fixed structure. The mounting member is made of one piece of magnetic material and has a first wall located on the same side of the air gap as the encoder washer and a second wall located on the same side of the air gap as the sensor whereas a magnetic body of the encoder washer, the air gap and the sensor are located in a volume defined by the mounting member between the two walls. |
| US09127717B1 |
Spacer for rolling bearing having at least a reinforcing beam
The spacer is adapted for a rolling bearing comprising an inner ring, an outer ring and at least one row of contact rollers disposed between raceways provided on the rings. The spacer comprises opposite first and second portions 11, 12 facing one another and at least a first lateral portion 13 extending transversally between the first and second portions and connected to the portions. The first and second portions and the first lateral portion delimit at least partly a pocket 14 laterally open on the side opposite to the lateral portion 13 and configured to receive at least a contact roller. The first and second portions each comprise an inner contact surface 11a, 12a with an end face of the roller. The spacer further comprises at least one reinforcing beam 16, 17 extending transversally between the first and second portions and connected to the portions. |
| US09127704B2 |
Tornado protection system and related methods
A tornado protection system and related methods are provided. The tornado protection system includes a concrete pad. At least two anchors are affixed to the concrete pad. A vehicle is in a grounded position on the concrete pad. At least two anchor straps are connected between the vehicle and the at least two anchors, respectively, wherein the at least two anchor straps are connected to at least two sides of the vehicle, respectively. The tornado protection system may allow the vehicle to remain grounded throughout the duration of a tornado having a wind speed of at least 65 MPH, a horizontal wind force of at least 2,959 lbs., and a vector wind force of at least 4,638 lbs. |
| US09127697B1 |
Dynamically stable pressure control system
A hydraulic pressure control system having a variable displacement pump fluidly connected to a hydraulic motor. The pump provides flow to a first circuit upon demand. Remaining flow is provided to a second circuit. The second circuit includes a pilot controlled pressure reducing valve that adjusts the pumps outlet pressure based upon a sensed loads taken from a conduit between the pressure control valve and an active flow regulator valve. |
| US09127690B2 |
Turbocharger support housing having alignment features
A support housing for a turbocharger is provided. The support housing may include an end wall with a first side and a second side, and a protrusion extending from the first side of the end wall in a first direction and configured to receive the turbocharger. The support housing may also include a plurality of side walls extending from the second side of the end wall in a second direction opposite the first direction. The plurality of side walls together with the end wall may form a generally hollow enclosure. The support housing may also include a first mounting flange disposed at distal edges of the plurality of side walls and configured to engage an engine, and a first center opening disposed in the end wall and passing from the first side to the second side. |
| US09127683B2 |
High temperature radial bearing for electrical submersible pump assembly
A submersible pump assembly includes a rotary pump and an electrical motor operatively connected to the pump for driving the pump. A seal section is connected between the motor and the pump for reducing a pressure differential between lubricant in the motor and hydrostatic well fluid pressure. A shaft assembly extends from the motor through the seal section and the pump. A sleeve surrounds the shaft assembly. A carrier body has an inner diameter surface. An anti-rotation member is on an exterior of the carrier body in static engagement with an inner diameter surface of the pump assembly for preventing rotation of the carrier body. An annular metal radially deflectable spring is located between and in contact with an outer diameter surface of the sleeve and with the inner diameter surface of the carrier body. The spring is a wave spring with undulations. |
| US09127682B2 |
Vacuum pumping arrangement
A vacuum pumping arrangement for evacuating an enclosure is provided. The arrangement comprises a turbomolecular vacuum pump having an inlet which is connectable using fixing members to an outlet of an enclosure to be evacuated. Each of the fixing members passes through a first aperture in the inlet and through a second aperture in the outlet. An elongate, circumferentially extending cavity is provided extending from or adjacent to one of these apertures to accommodate a crushable insert. Energy transmitted to the fixing members by the turbomolecular vacuum pump during a failure thereof is thus absorbed by the deformation of the inserts. By absorbing a proportion of the energy in this way separation of the inlet from the outlet is thus inhibited. |
| US09127680B2 |
Verification of magnetic balance for magnetically levitated impeller
The magnetic balance is verified of a magnetically-levitated impeller of a centrifugal pump with a pump housing having levitation magnets. The impeller includes embedded magnets and is movable within a chamber in the pump housing between first and second sides of the chamber. The centrifugal pump is mounted on an acceleration fixture while the impeller is held against a predetermined one of the first and second sides by the levitation magnets. A plurality of predetermined accelerations are applied to the acceleration fixture to exert a plurality of different forces of acceleration on the impeller. A determination is made whether the impeller detaches from the predetermined side as a result of each different force of acceleration to identify adjacent forces for which a transition occurs between detaching and not detaching. The transition is compared with a desired retention force to determine whether the pump achieves magnetic balance. |
| US09127679B2 |
Counter rotating helico-axial pump
A counter rotating helico-axial pump is provided, the pump comprising: (a) an inner rotor comprising a plurality of outwardly extending helico-axial impeller vanes; (b) a hollow outer rotor comprising a plurality of inwardly extending helico-axial impeller vanes; (c) a single driving device configured to drive the inner rotor or the hollow outer rotor; and (d) a force transmission coupling joining the inner rotor and the hollow outer rotor and configured to permit rotation of the inner rotor and hollow outer rotor in opposite directions; wherein at least a portion of the inner rotor is disposed within the hollow outer rotor, and wherein the inner rotor, the hollow outer rotor and the helico-axial impeller vanes define a fluid flow path, and wherein the inner rotor and hollow outer rotor are configured such that at least some of adjacent helico-axial impeller vanes are configured to rotate in opposite directions. |
| US09127677B2 |
Compressor with capacity modulation and variable volume ratio
A compressor is provided and may include a shell assembly defining a suction pressure region and a discharge pressure region. A first scroll member may include a first discharge port and a first modulation port. A second scroll member may include a first variable volume ratio port. A capacity modulation valve assembly may be in fluid communication with the first modulation port and may be displaceable between open and closed positions to selectively provide communication between a first intermediate compression pocket and the suction pressure region via the first modulation port. A variable volume ratio valve assembly may be in fluid communication with the first variable volume ratio port. The variable volume ratio valve assembly may be displaceable between open and closed positions to selectively provide communication between a second intermediate compression pocket and the discharge pressure region via the first variable volume ratio port. |
| US09127675B2 |
Vane compressor with vane aligners
A vane compressor including plural vanes that perform a compression operation such that the normal to a circular arc formed by each vane tip portion and the normal to the inner peripheral surface of a cylinder are constantly approximately coincident with each other. Each of the plural vanes is held constantly in the normal direction of the inner peripheral surface of the cylinder or is held constantly along a direction having a fixed inclination with respect to the normal direction of the inner peripheral surface of the cylinder so that the compression operation is performed in the state the normal to the circular arc formed by the tip portion of each of the plural vanes and the normal to the inner peripheral surface of the cylinder are constantly approximately coincident with each other. The plural vanes are rotatably and movably supported with respect to a rotor portion. |
| US09127674B2 |
High efficiency fixed displacement vane pump including a compression spring
A vane pump for an automatic transmission includes a housing which may be spaced from the axis of the transmission input shaft axis and driven by a chain or gear train driven by the torque converter hub or disposed on and about the axis of the transmission input shaft and driven at engine speed. The vane pump includes a pair of port plates which reside on the end faces of a pump body having a cylindrical chamber which receives an eccentrically disposed rotor that is coupled to a stub shaft in an off-axis arrangement. The rotor includes a plurality of radial slots which receive a like plurality of vanes. The outer ends or edges of the vanes are in contact with the wall of the cylindrical chamber and the inner ends or edges are in contact with a pair of vane rings received within recesses in the ends of the rotor. The vanes are thus constrained between the wall of the chamber and the vane rings which positively determine their radial positions as they and the rotor rotate. Suitable inlet (suction) and outlet (pressure) ports in the port plates supply and collect hydraulic fluid to and from the cylindrical chamber. A compression spring biases the port plates and body together. The vane pump according to the present invention is self-priming and achieves high pumping efficiency. |
| US09127673B2 |
Rotary lobe pump having inlet and outlet aligned with gearbox casing
The invention relates to a rotary lobe pump (100) for conveying a fluid medium containing solids, comprising an inlet opening (111) and an outlet opening (112) for the medium being conveyed, two rotary lobes (121, 122) arranged in a pump casing (140) and having rotary lobe vanes engaging with other, wherein each of the two rotary lobes is fixed torque-resistantly on a respective shaft (131) and can be driven by said respective shaft, and wherein the two shafts are coupled to each other by a transmission gear arranged in a gearbox casing (152). The invention relates in particular to a rotary lobe pump in which the inlet opening and the outlet opening are arranged on a connection casing (151). |
| US09127672B2 |
Gear pump
In a gear pump in which a driving rotor that is driven by a driving source meshes with a driven rotor that is driven by the driving rotor for rotation to pump a hydraulic oil, only one of the driving rotor and the driven rotor is given the steam treatment while the other remains untreated. |
| US09127668B2 |
Apparatus for flowing fluids
Apparatus for the treatment of the blood, comprising at least one pump (25, 26, 27), matchable with a corresponding portion of tube (35, 36, 37) supported by a cartridge or module (3) which is associated to the apparatus (1), characterized in that it comprises a pump capable of reducing the pressure inside the chamber defined by the association of the cartridge (3) to the apparatus (1). |
| US09127665B2 |
Disc pump with advanced actuator
A two-cavity pump having a single valve in one cavity and a bidirectional valve in another cavity is disclosed. The pump has a side wall closed by two end walls for containing a fluid. An actuator is disposed between the two end walls and functions as a portion of a common end wall of the two cavities. The actuator causes an oscillatory motion of the common end walls to generate radial pressure oscillations of the fluid within both cavities. An isolator flexibly supports the actuator. The first cavity includes the single valve disposed in one of a first and second aperture in the end wall to enable fluid flow in one direction. The second cavity includes the bidirectional valve disposed in one of a third and fourth aperture in the end wall to enable fluid flow in both directions. |
| US09127664B2 |
Method of manufacturing a housing
A method of manufacturing a plurality of housings. The method may include maintaining an inventory of initial products. Each of the initial products may include a central hollow body extending along a longitudinal axis and monolithically formed with at least one of a suction passage and a discharge passage. Each of the products may have a same initial length. The method may further include receiving a first order for a first housing having a first length and machining a first product to the first length to form the first housing. Also, the method may include receiving a second order for a second housing having a second length and machining a second product to the second length to form the second housing. The first length and the second length may be different. |
| US09127663B2 |
Fluid heating apparatus and method
An apparatus for heating a fluid such as engine oil includes an auxiliary pump, a conduit connected to the auxiliary pump and provides fluid communication from the auxiliary pump and an aperture in the conduit. In use the auxiliary pump contains the fluid. A first portion of the fluid is pumped into the conduit by the auxiliary pump and a second portion of the fluid remains in the auxiliary pump. The aperture restricts the flow of the first portion of the fluid in the conduit. The second portion of the fluid is heated due to friction between the second portion of the fluid and the pump. There is also described a method of heating a fluid. |
| US09127662B2 |
Tank dampening device
A compressor assembly having a compressed gas tank having a tank dampening device in the form of a vibration absorption member. The vibration absorption member can provide a pressure to a portion of the compressed gas tank. A method of controlling sound emitted from a compressor assembly, by using a vibration absorber which exerts a force upon the compressed gas tank. A means for controlling the sound level of a compressed gas tank by using a means for absorbing vibration from the compressed gas tank which exerts a pressure on a portion of the compressed gas tank. |
| US09127659B2 |
Multistage compressors for pet bottle blowing processes
A multistage reciprocating air compressor compresses air to an elevated pressure level discharge with an intermediate pressure level discharge for use in blow molding of PET bottles and similar products. The air compressor has a first, second and third reciprocating piston stages with first, second and third actuators operable in response to respective sensed discharge pressure levels from the discharges to actuate inlet unloading elements. |
| US09127656B2 |
Ring cam and fluid-working machine including ring cam
A ring cam for a fluid-working machine is formed from a plurality of segments. The segments comprise a leading cooperating formation which has a piston facing surface which forms part of the working surface, at a trailing end, and which is recessed from the working surface at a leading end, and a trailing cooperating formation which has a piston facing surface which forms part of the working surface at a leading end, and which is recessed from the working surface at a trailing end. The segments having piston facing surfaces which are in compressive stress such as to partially or fully compensate for tensile stress arising from the action of rollers in use. The segments form a wavelike cam surface and attachment means are provided, through the working surface, on whichever of the leading or trailing surfaces thereof is subject to lowest forces from pistons in use. |
| US09127655B2 |
Liquid nitrogen pump equipment load testing and experimenting apparatus and testing and experimenting method thereof
The disclosure relates to liquid nitrogen pump equipment load testing and experimenting apparatus, and testing and experimenting method thereof, used for oil-gas fields or coalbed methane nitrogen foam fracturing equipment testing. A hydraulic damping apparatus unit and a pressure regulation unit are provided; the hydro-mechanical damping apparatus unit comprises a water tank, a pump unit apparatus, and a pipe manifold system connected in sequence. |
| US09127654B2 |
Hall effect plasma thruster with insulated layered ring assembly
The Hall effect plasma thruster includes a main annular channel for ionization and acceleration that presents an open downstream end, at least one cathode, an annular anode concentric with the main annular channel, a pipe and a manifold for feeding the channel with ionizable gas, and a magnetic circuit for creating a magnetic field in the main annular channel. The main annular channel includes inner and outer annular wall portions delimiting the open end, each of which includes an assembly of juxtaposed conductive or semi-conductive rings in the form of laminations separated by fine layers of insulation. |
| US09127652B2 |
Method and apparatus for driving a polymer actuator to control a lens
A driving unit that may improve characteristics in a low temperature environment while implementing downsizing, and a lens module as well as an image pickup device with such a driving unit are provided. The driving unit includes one or a plurality of polymer actuator elements, and a voltage supply section supplying a driving voltage and a heating voltage to the polymer actuator element. |
| US09127647B2 |
Wind turbine nacelle, transport system for a wind turbine nacelle and method for transporting a wind turbine nacelle
A wind turbine nacelle is provided. The wind turbine nacelle includes a longitudinal extension and a bottom part. The longitudinal extension has a rear end and a front end. At the bottom part, an opening is located which serves as an interface to a tower of a wind turbine at a designated assembly situation of the nacelle. A first detachable leg arrangement is attached to at least one of the front end and the rear end. A second detachable leg arrangement is attached at the bottom part. Further embodiments are directed to a transport system for a wind turbine nacelle and to a method for transporting a wind turbine nacelle. |
| US09127646B2 |
Toroidal augmented wind power generation system using a modified and integrated vertical axis wind turbine rotor and generator assembly
A wind power generating system in which a plurality of stationary modules form a toroidal shaped tower that accelerates wind passing around and between the modules due to the Bernoulli Effect. Between the modules are located a plurality of vertical axis wind turbine rotors with an integrated generator system that in combination forms an integrated rotor and generator assembly connected to a rotatable yaw platform via an improved support arm. The rotor and generator assemblies act independently of each other to accommodate different wind conditions at different altitudes and to provide partial production to significantly enhance overall wind production. |
| US09127642B2 |
Methods for adjusting the power output of a wind turbine
A method for adjusting the power output of a wind turbine (10) based on component operating temperatures is disclosed. The method may generally include receiving a signal associated with an operating temperature of the wind turbine (402), determining a desired power output range of the wind turbine at the operating temperature (404), comparing a power output of the wind turbine to the desired power output range (406) and adjusting the power output when the power output is outside the desired power output range (408). |
| US09127641B2 |
Sea electricity energy production device to produce renewable electricity
A sea electricity energy production device has a submerged water gate for controlling a flow of sea water into the device, one or more paddle wheels that receive water flow through the water gate to drive main gears in rotary motion, a series of pressure tanks having pistons driven by the main gears driven by the paddle wheels to pressurize water flow from the pressure tanks, and a Francis reaction turbine built on land that receives the pressurized water flow from the pressure tanks to drive the turbine and generate electricity. |
| US09127637B2 |
Method for managing transitions in internal combustion engines with combustion phasing
A combustion mode transition control for controlling a transition between a homogeneous-charge compression-ignition (HCCI) combustion mode and a spark-ignition (SI) combustion mode includes slowly transitioning intake and exhaust camshafts from initial phase settings corresponding to one of the HCCI and SI combustion modes to target phase settings corresponding to the other of the HCCI and SI combustion modes. An ignition spark timing and an injected fuel mass are coordinated with the transitioning of the intake and exhaust camshaft phase settings to substantially maintain engine load continuity during the transitioning of the intake and exhaust camshaft phase settings. |
| US09127636B2 |
Variable flux starter and switch system
A variable flux starter and switch system including a starter motor with motor field winding first and second portions, a control unit capable of selectively issuing starter activation and desired flux level signals, a motor energizing switch moveable between open and closed positions consequent to issuance of the starter activation signal, and a regulating device that transitions between default and activated operational states consequent to issuance of the flux level signal. The regulating device has a moveable blocking member and relatively moveable contact members, and in one of the default and activated operational states, electrical contact between the contact members is permitted or prevented by the blocking member. Current through the closed motor energizing switch substantially bypasses a motor field winding portion when electrical contact between the contact members is permitted, and is conducted through both portions when prevented. Also, a method for varying starter motor flux levels. |
| US09127635B2 |
Method of generating spray by fluid injection valve, fluid injection valve, and spray generation apparatus
A method of generating a spray by a fluid injection valve is provided. The fluid injection valve includes a valve seat (10), a valve body (8), and an orifice plate (11) having a plurality of orifices (12). The flows in the orifices and the flows directly below the orifices are configured to be substantially liquid film flows. The directions of jet flows (30), (31) from the respective orifices (12) are not necessarily matched to the central axis directions of the orifices and are not necessarily intersected with each other at a downstream position thereof. The sprays are caused to converge by the Coanda effect acting on a plurality of sprays after jet flows from the orifices (12) become sprays at a downstream position farther than a break-up length (a). The convergence of the sprays is continued until the Coanda effect is substantially lost. |
| US09127634B2 |
Method for determining the opening point in the time of a fuel injector
A method for determining the opening point in time of a control valve having a coil drive of an indirectly driven fuel injector for an internal combustion engine of a motor vehicle may include: detecting the time curve of the current intensity of a current flowing through the coil drive, determining a current integral with respect to the detected current intensity as a function of the time and starting from a defined initial time, and determining a time at which the current integral reaches at least a predefined current integral reference value, wherein the determined time is the opening point in time of the control valve. A corresponding device and a computer program for determining the opening point in time of a control valve of an indirectly driven fuel injector are also disclosed. |
| US09127633B2 |
Actuator arrangement
An actuator arrangement for an electromagnetically operated fuel injector includes a generally cylindrical actuator core having a longitudinal axis and defining an inner pole face of the actuator arrangement. The actuator core is formed of a bespoke magnetic material. A wire coil is disposed around the actuator core arranged to be connected to a power source to generate a magnetic field around the coil. A pole member is formed of a high strength material and defines an aperture for receiving the actuator core. The pole member defines an outer pole face of the actuator arrangement substantially co-planar with the inner pole face. An armature is movable in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis in response to the magnetic field. The magnetic field passes into the armature in the region of the inner pole face and into the armature in the region of the outer pole face. |
| US09127631B2 |
Fuel pump for a direct injection system
A fuel pump for a direct injection system provided with a common rail; the fuel pump has: at least one pumping chamber defined in a main body; a piston which 5 is mounted sliding inside the pumping chamber; a suction channel connected to the pumping chamber and regulated by a suction valve; a delivery channel connected to the pumping chamber and regulated by a delivery valve; and a high pressure connection, which is welded by a ring weld 10 to a wall of the main body at the delivery channel, has the function of allowing a connection to a supply duct that feeds the fuel under pressure to the common rail, and has internally a passing through channel through which the fuel coming from the delivery channel flows 15 towards the supply duct. |
| US09127630B2 |
Fuel supply apparatus for engine
A fuel supply apparatus for an engine, includes a first cylinder group, a second cylinder group, first fuel injection valves, second fuel injection valves, a fuel supply pipe, a branch portion, a first connecting pipe, a second connecting pipe, a first delivery pipe, and a second delivery pipe. The branch portion has an inflow direction along which fuel is to flow from the fuel supply pipe into the branch portion. The branch portion has a first outflow direction along which fuel is to flow from the branch portion into the first connecting pipe. The branch portion has a second outflow direction along which fuel is to flow from the branch portion into the second connecting pipe. All of the inflow direction, the first outflow direction, and the second outflow direction are provided not to lie in a same straight line. |
| US09127629B2 |
Fuel injection device
A fuel injection device (100) includes a control body (40) provided with an injection hole (44), a nozzle needle (60) that opens or closes the injection hole (44), a pressure control chamber (53) controlling a movement of the nozzle needle (60), an inflow channel (52) through which high-pressure fuel is introduced to the pressure control chamber (53), an outflow channel (54) through which the fuel from the pressure control chamber (53) is discharged, and a floating plate (70) that opens or closes the inflow channel (52). In the fuel injection device (100), the control body (40) includes a cylinder (56) defining the pressure control chamber (53) in a radial direction thereof, and an inner wall portion (56a) of the cylinder (56) includes a communication groove (57a) which causes an inflow chamber (53a) that is provided within the pressure control chamber (53) at a side of the inflow channel (52) relative to the floating plate (70), to communicate with a back pressure chamber (53b) that is provided within the pressure control chamber (53) at a side of the nozzle needle (60) relative to the floating plate (70). |
| US09127626B2 |
Methods and systems for turbocharger control
Methods are provided for controlling a turbocharged engine having an additional throttle located between an intake manifold of the engine and an outlet of a compressor. In one example approach a method comprises, during a cold start condition, diverting a portion of compressed air from downstream a compressor to a heat exchanger, and heating vehicle components with the heat exchanger. |
| US09127618B2 |
Reduced compression height piston and piston assembly therewith and methods of construction thereof
A piston assembly and method of construction thereof for an internal combustion engine are provided. The assembly includes a piston head having an upper combustion wall with an undercrown surface and a ring belt region. The piston head has a floor with an upper surface and a bottom surface. The floor is spaced beneath the upper combustion wall in radial alignment with the ring belt region. A substantially enclosed, annular cooling gallery is bounded by the undercrown surface and the floor. A pair of pin bores depends directly from the floor of the cooling gallery. The assembly further includes a pin having ends configured for oscillating receipt in the pin bores. A pin bearing surface extends within the pin bores and between the pin bores in the lower surface of the floor. The assembly includes a connecting rod with an end fixed to the pin for conjoint oscillation therewith. |
| US09127610B2 |
Method of controlling a vehicle engine system
A method of controlling a vehicle engine system is described. The method involves sensing a pressure in the engine; generating a signal indicative of the sensed pressure; encrypting the signal to generate an encrypted data message containing information indicative of the sensed pressure; transmitting the encrypted data message to an engine control means; decrypting the encrypted data message to obtain the information indicative of the sensed pressure; and controlling the vehicle engine system in dependence upon the information contained in the encrypted data message. A pressure sensor for use in the method, and a suitably programmed electronic control unit are also described. |
| US09127609B2 |
Exhaust gas recirculation system and control strategy
A method for controlling a vehicle's exhaust gas recirculation system. The method controls the exhaust gas recirculation system in a manner that is suitable for a pedal tip-out transition while also being optimized for normal operating situations. |
| US09127606B2 |
System for determining EGR degradation
A system for improving operation of an EGR system is presented. The system provides distinct models to estimate EGR temperature in response to a valve position. In one example, the system can judge EGR system operation when a state of a control valve is adjusted during driving conditions. |
| US09127604B2 |
Control system and method for preventing stochastic pre-ignition in an engine
A control system for an engine includes a spark module and a fuel module. The spark module advances spark timing of a cylinder R degrees past a spark limit for N consecutive cylinder firing events, and retards spark timing of the cylinder past the spark limit for M consecutive cylinder firing events after the N consecutive cylinder firing events. The fuel module supplies a rich fuel-air charge to the cylinder for the M consecutive cylinder firing events. According to the system, R is a real number greater than zero, N and M are integers greater than zero, and the spark limit is a control value used to limit an amount of spark advance to prevent spark-knock. A method for controlling an engine is also provided. |
| US09127602B2 |
Control device for internal combustion engine
A control device is applied to an engine having a supercharger and a control value. The supercharger contains an opening-area control member that changes an opening-area of an approach zone to a turbine of the supercharger so as to change an amount of energy of the exhaust gas entering into the supercharger. The control valve changes a valve-opening degree so as to change an amount of energy of the exhaust gas entering into the supercharger. At a certain instruction time point, the control device gives an instruction to the control valve so as to change the valve-opening degree by a target difference. At this time point, the control device gives an instruction to the opening-area control member, based on the target difference and a parameter relating to a response-time length of the control valve, so as to change the opening-area of the approach zone. |
| US09127598B2 |
Control method for stoichiometric exhaust gas recirculation power plant
Ambient air is compressed into a compressed ambient gas flow with a main air compressor. The compressed ambient gas flow having a compressed ambient gas flow rate is delivered to a turbine combustor and mixed with a fuel stream having a fuel stream flow rate and a portion of a recirculated low oxygen content gas flow to form a combustible mixture. The combustible mixture is burned and forms the recirculated low oxygen content gas flow that drives a turbine. A portion of the recirculated low oxygen content gas flow is recirculated from the turbine to the turbine compressor using a recirculation loop. The compressed ambient gas flow rate and the fuel stream flow rate are adjusted to achieve substantially stoichiometric combustion. An excess portion, if any, of the compressed ambient gas flow is vented. A portion of the recirculated low oxygen content gas flow is extracted using an extraction conduit. |
| US09127588B2 |
Two-cycle engine
An engine includes a cylinder block, and a piston slidably mounted in a cylinder, with the cylinder block being formed with an exhaust passage leading to a combustion chamber through an exhaust port, a first scavenging port opened to an inner circumferential surface of the cylinder, a first communication passage formed from the first scavenging port in a radial direction of the cylinder, and a first scavenging passage formed with an opening on a bottom surface of the first communication passage, in which a side surface on a far side from the exhaust port forming the communication passage is formed towards the far side from the exhaust port in the combustion chamber, and the opening portion of the first scavenging passage and a landing portion formed in the periphery of the opening portion are formed at a bottom portion of the communication passage. |
| US09127586B2 |
Apparatus for estimating exhaust gas temperature of internal combustion engine
An apparatus for estimating a temperature of an exhaust gas which is exhausted from an internal combustion engine to an exhaust manifold. The apparatus estimates the temperature of the exhaust gas in the exhaust manifold, based on a temperature increment caused by an adiabatic compression until a gas introduced in an intake manifold is exhausted to the exhaust manifold, and a temperature increment obtained by dividing the amount of heat lost in the exhaust gas among the amount of heat introduced into cylinders by the diluted gas flow of the exhaust gas in the exhaust manifold. |
| US09127584B2 |
Recovery control system
A recovery control system that allows a dosing valve to recover from a malfunction to a normal state, or a liquid feed line through which urea solution is fed to recover from clogging to a normal state. An abnormality detector detects an abnormality of the dosing valve and a recovery controller controls a supply module to feed urea solution in the dosing valve back to an urea tank when the abnormality detector detects the abnormality. |
| US09127582B2 |
Control apparatus for hybrid vehicle
A hybrid vehicle control apparatus for a hybrid vehicle capable of EV travel generated by a motor-generator with an internal combustion engine is provided. The control apparatus includes a maximum value calculation unit for calculating a maximum value of a supply of electric power for an electrically-heated catalyst, when the internal combustion engine is in a stopped state, provided to the electrically-heated catalyst based on (i) at least one of a start-up electric power required for starting up the engine or an operation electric power required for operating a supplemental device, (ii) an electric power output limit value of the battery, and (iii) an electric power required for a travel of the hybrid vehicle. The control apparatus also includes a power supply controller for controlling the supply of electric power for the electrically-heated catalyst based on the maximum value of the supply of electric power for the electrically-heated catalyst. |
| US09127580B2 |
Heat exchange unit
A heat exchange unit (214) arranged to be used to recover energy from exhaust gas, the heat exchange unit (214) comprising a gas inlet duct (222) to which a heat exchange duct (216) is connected, wherein a heat exchange array (752, 754) of a heat exchange system is situated within the heat exchange duct (216) surrounding a maintenance duct and wherein the maintenance duct (226) is arranged to allow access for inspection and/or maintenance of at least part of the heat exchange system. |
| US09127579B2 |
Fluid management system
A fluid management system and a method for managing fluid include a removable cartridge, a fluid reservoir, a fluid exchange pump, and a conduit. The conduit provides fluid communication between the removable cartridge and the fluid reservoir. The fluid exchange pump transfers a first fluid from the fluid reservoir to the removable cartridge in a first direction, and permits a flow of a second fluid from the removable cartridge to the fluid reservoir in a second direction. |
| US09127573B2 |
Arrangement and method for converting thermal energy to mechanical energy
An arrangement and a method for converting thermal energy to mechanical energy includes a circulation unit (4) a refrigerant in the a circuit (3), an evaporator (6) for the refrigerant, a turbine (9) driven by vaporised refrigerant, a condenser (12) cooling the refrigerant to condense, and an accumulator tank (14) for storage of the refrigerant is not being circulated in the line circuit (3). A control device estimates the degree of filling of the line circuit (3) with refrigerant at which the turbine (9) achieves a substantially optimum effect, and controls the flow of refrigerant between the line circuit (3) and the accumulator tank (14) to achieve the estimated degree of filling the line circuit (3) with refrigerant. |
| US09127572B2 |
Oxy fired power generation system and method of operating the same
An electricity production system configured to operate in accordance with a method of operating an electricity production system that at least includes the steps of: determining an oxygen distribution between oxygen gas to be separated by an air separation unit (“ASU”) and oxygen gas stored in a storage tank of the ASU to be fed to the boiler unit, determining a carbon capture value for a gas processing unit, determining a power consumption value for the gas processing unit and the ASU, determining a total power demand value based on the power consumption value of the gas processing unit and the ASU, and on a determined electricity demand, and controlling the boiler unit, the turbine, the ASU, and the gas processing unit based on the determined total power demand along with correcting signals generated from a coordinated Model Predictive Control. |
| US09127571B2 |
Multiple organic Rankine cycle system and method
Systems and methods are provided for the use of systems that recover mechanical power from waste heat energy using multiple working expanders with a common working fluid. The system accepts waste heat energy at different temperatures and utilizes a single closed-loop circuit of organic refrigerant flowing through all expanders in the system where the distribution of heat energy to each of the expanders allocated to permit utilization of up to all available heat energy. In some embodiments, the system maximizes the output of the waste heat energy recovery process. The expanders can be operatively coupled to one or more generators that convert the mechanical energy of the expansion process into electrical energy. |
| US09127565B2 |
Apparatus comprising a CMC-comprising body and compliant porous element preloaded within an outer metal shell
An apparatus includes a metal shell (200, 300) surrounding a body (230, 330) that is made of a ceramic matrix composite (CMC) material (231) The metal shell defines a space (250) adapted to contain the body and includes at least one protrusion (220) adapted to contact the body. A compliant porous element (240) is adapted to fit in the space between the metal shell and the body. A preload spring (260, 360) is provided in an urging orientation with the body wherein the preload spring is positioned against a first region (333) of the body and is adapted to urge the body toward one of the protrusions positioned against a second region (335) generally opposite the first region, and also to preload the compliant porous element. One of the protrusions may be a hard stop, and in the preload, one of the protrusions may be loaded. |
| US09127560B2 |
Cooled turbine blade and method for cooling a turbine blade
A cooled turbine blade comprises a root for fixing the blade to rotor, an airfoil extending along a radial axis from the root, and a tip shroud disposed at a radially outward end of the airfoil. The tip shroud extends in a circumferential direction from the airfoil and defines, within itself, a core plenum and a peripheral plenum. The airfoil defines an aft airfoil cooling passage that extends radially through the airfoil proximate a trailing edge portion of the airfoil. The airfoil also defines an aft cooling inlet for providing an aft stream of cooling fluid to the aft airfoil cooling passage. The airfoil also defines at least one aft cooling exit for discharging the aft stream of cooling fluid from the aft airflow cooling passage to the peripheral plenum. The tip shroud defines at least one peripheral plenum vent for discharging the aft stream of cooling fluid. |
| US09127559B2 |
Diaphragm for turbomachines and method of manufacture
A turbine diaphragm assembly is described having an annulus of static blades, each static blade including at least an aerofoil and an outer platform; and an outer diaphragm ring or segments of a ring for holding the annulus of static blades; with confronting edges of the outer platforms and the ring are held by an interference fit when pushed in axial direction into contact with the interference fit designed to withstand the forces on the diaphragm during operation of the assembled turbine. |
| US09127556B2 |
Rotor disc and method of balancing
A rotor disc, such as one made of a damage intolerant material or other material sensitive to stress concentrations, has at least one balancing assembly which includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced-apart sacrificial protrusions projecting between adjacent stress-relieving slots. Selective material removal is permitted from the rotor disc, while managing stress concentrations in the rotor disc created by such material removal, such that the rotor disc may be balanced without detrimentally affecting its service life. |
| US09127551B2 |
Turbine combustion system cooling scoop
A scoop (54) over a coolant inlet hole (48) in an outer wall (40B) of a double-walled tubular structure (40A, 40B) of a gas turbine engine component (26, 28). The scoop redirects a coolant flow (37) into the hole. The leading edge (56, 58) of the scoop has a central projection (56) or tongue that overhangs the coolant inlet hole, and a curved undercut (58) on each side of the tongue between the tongue and a generally C-shaped or generally U-shaped attachment base (53) of the scoop. A partial scoop (62) may be cooperatively positioned with the scoop (54). |
| US09127549B2 |
Turbine shroud cooling assembly for a gas turbine system
A turbine shroud cooling assembly for a gas turbine system includes an outer shroud component disposed within a turbine section of the gas turbine system and proximate a turbine section casing, wherein the outer shroud component includes at least one airway for ingesting an airstream. Also included is an inner shroud component disposed radially inward of, and fixedly connected to, the outer shroud component, wherein the inner shroud component includes a plurality of microchannels extending in at least one of a circumferential direction and an axial direction for cooling the inner shroud component with the airstream from the at least one airway. |
| US09127540B2 |
Method of recovering oil and producing produced water that is concentrated and dried by a double drum dryer
A method of treating concentrated produced water derived from a steam assisted gravity discharge oil recovery process is described. The method includes utilizing a double drum dryer to dry a concentrated slurry and produce a dried concentrate for deposition in a landfill. |
| US09127537B1 |
Method of delivering frac fluid and additives
A method for the controlled delivery of a fracturing fluid to a well bore comprises formulating an aqueous base fluid such that it meets or exhibits desired physical and chemical characteristics for an optimal fracturing fluid. The formulation of the aqueous base fluid max involve commingling one or more sources of waste water with a source of fresh water followed by controlled injection of one or more additives. This process is substantially completed prior to delivering the aqueous base fluid to the well site. This allows the delivery of an optimal volume of the aqueous base fluid with homogeneously blended additives to the well bore. |
| US09127534B2 |
Cable integrity monitor for electromagnetic telemetry systems
In some embodiments, an apparatus and a system, as well as a method and an article, may include a signal integrity monitor that senses the signal transmitted between a surface device and a downhole device. The signal integrity monitor is adapted to disconnect power from the communication system if a fault in the communication line is detected. |
| US09127532B2 |
Optical casing collar locator systems and methods
Fiber optic enabled casing collar locator systems and methods include a wireline sonde or a coil tubing sonde apparatus configured to be conveyed through a casing string by a fiber optic cable. The sonde includes at least one permanent magnet producing a magnetic field that changes in response to passing a collar in the casing string, a coil that receives at least a portion of the magnetic field and provides an electrical signal in response to the changes in the magnetic field, and a light source that responds to the electrical signal to communicate light along an optical fiber to indicate passing collars. |
| US09127523B2 |
Barrier methods for use in subsurface hydrocarbon formations
Methods and systems for establishing a double barrier around at least a portion of a subsurface treatment area in a hydrocarbon containing formation are disclosed. First barrier wells may be used to form a first barrier around a portion of the subsurface treatment area. Second barrier wells may be used to form a second barrier around the first barrier. A space may exist between the first barrier and the second barrier. The first barrier and second barrier may be inhibited from forming a single combined barrier by the injection, and in some cases circulation, of fluids such as saline water. |
| US09127522B2 |
Method and apparatus for sealing an annulus of a wellbore
A well system (100) includes a production string (130) adapted to extend from a wellhead (120) to a subterranean zone (110). The production string (130) includes one or more joints of tubing comprising a bore; a seal (150) actuable by a specified pressure in the bore to substantially prevent fluid communication in an annulus (140) between a first portion of a wellbore (115) and a second portion of the wellbore (115), and an intervention sub (200) comprising a body (210) and a plurality of ports (228, 230) adapted to allow fluid communication between the bore and the annulus (140). The annulus is disposed between an exterior surface of the production string (130) and the wellbore (115). The intervention sub (200) further includes a seat (226) adapted to receive a plug (224) from the terranean surface (105) and seal the bore to substantially prevent fluid communication through the ports (228, 230). |
| US09127520B2 |
Apparatus, system and method for circumferentially orienting a downhole latch subsystem
A downhole latch assembly has a plurality of latch keys including a primary latch key. A window joint is interconnected in a casing string positioned in a wellbore. A latch coupling having a latch profile is interconnected in the casing string downhole of the window joint. An orienting subassembly interconnected in the casing string has an orienting profile positioned uphole of the latch profile such that after operable engagement of the primary latch key with the orienting profile, axial alignment of the latch assembly with the latch coupling causes operable engagement of the latch keys with the latch profile. |
| US09127514B2 |
Bladder type crimper
Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed toward a bladder-type crimper. The crimper includes a cylindrical body comprising a cavity and a bladder assembly disposed within the cavity, wherein the bladder assembly comprises an elastic bladder and a plurality of fingers arrayed about opposite ends of the elastic bladder, wherein the cylindrical body and the bladder assembly are configured to be disposed about a tubular. |
| US09127512B2 |
Offshore drilling method
An offshore universal riser system may include a valve module which selectively permits and prevents fluid flow through a flow passage extending longitudinally through a riser string. An anchoring device may releasably secure the valve module in the passage. A method of constructing a riser system may include the steps of installing the valve module in the passage, and installing at least one annular seal module in the passage. The annular seal module may prevent fluid flow through an annular space between the riser string and a tubular string positioned in the passage. Drilling methods may include injecting relatively low density fluid compositions into the annular space, and selectively varying a restriction to flow through a subsea choke in a drilling fluid return line. The riser string, including housings for the various modules and external control systems, may be dimensioned for installation through a rotary table. |
| US09127511B2 |
Offshore universal riser system
An offshore universal riser system may include a valve module which selectively permits and prevents fluid flow through a flow passage extending longitudinally through a riser string. An anchoring device may releasably secure the valve module in the passage. A method of constructing a riser system may include the steps of installing the valve module in the passage, and installing at least one annular seal module in the passage. The annular seal module may prevent fluid flow through an annular space between the riser string and a tubular string positioned in the passage. Drilling methods may include injecting relatively low density fluid compositions into the annular space, and selectively varying a restriction to flow through a subsea choke in a drilling fluid return line. The riser string, including housings for the various modules and external control systems, may be dimensioned for installation through a rotary table. |
| US09127509B2 |
Powered auger support assembly for a vehicle
A powered auger support device is provided having connection to a vehicle, a trailer hitch receiver on a vehicle, or the bed of a trailer, whereby a powered auger is slideably supported along an upright rail by way of a winch controlled by an operator. The device comprises a support structure having an upright rail, an auger support frame, and a pulley and winch system for raising and lowering the auger support frame. The auger support frame supports the handles of a stand-along auger and is pivotably supported along the rail, permitting the support frame to rotate with respect to the frame for placing the auger working end at different angles or in a horizontally stowed position. An embodiment of the upright rail contemplates a rotational hinge that places the auger support frame outside of the vehicle wheel tracks or outside of the bed of a trailer during use. |
| US09127508B2 |
Apparatus and methods utilizing progressive cavity motors and pumps with independent stages
A drilling apparatus includes a progressive cavity device that includes a plurality of linearly coupled rotors. Each rotor is disposed in a separate stator. Adjoining stators are separated by a coupling device configured to provide lateral support to the rotors. The stators may be enclosed in a common housing. The adjoining stator sections may be rigidly connected to each other. |
| US09127499B2 |
Composite frame for an opening
In accordance with one or more embodiments, a frame for an opening includes a first member, a second member, and a coating that is capable of facilitating bonding between the first member and the second member and also is capable of facilitating dimensional stability of the frame. |
| US09127495B2 |
Secure enclosure
A secure enclosure comprises: a body defining an access opening closed by a door, and a body media slot. A secure chamber is mounted outside the body and surrounds the body media slot, the secure chamber defining a chamber media slot. The secure enclosure may further comprise a media transport operable to convey media between the body media slot and the chamber media slot. The secure chamber body may also define a purge slot located on an underside of the chamber body so that media items that are not removed by a customer may be dropped through the purge slot. |
| US09127493B2 |
Pneumatic deceleration arrangement with constant performance
In a pneumatic deceleration device comprising a cylinder with a piston movably guided therein by a piston rod and having at least one sealing element, with a displacement space and a compensation chamber disposed at opposite sides of the sealed piston, where a piston movement opposing force is generated by a pressure in the displacement space and a vacuum generated in the compensation chamber, a pneumatic connection is formed from the displacement space and the compensation chamber to the ambient when the piston is in its end position where the displacement space is at its maximum value. |
| US09127491B2 |
Door support for glass sliding door and assembly
A sliding door assembly comprising one or more glass doors. Roller units are secured to a top portion of each the glass doors. The roller unit have a roller portion projecting out of a plane of the glass door. End members adapted to be secured to a structure at opposite ends of two transoms. Each said end member has two receptacles for receiving opposed ends of the end members. The receptacles of each said end member being spaced apart to hold the at least two transoms in a spaced apart and generally parallel relation, such that a guideway is defined between the transoms for holding captive the roller portion of the at least one roller unit for movement of the at least one glass door in its plane. |
| US09127490B2 |
Transmission mechanism for dual-shaft hinge
A transmission mechanism including a first shaft and a second shaft extending rotatably through a first positioning plate and a second positioning plate. The second positioning plate is spaced apart from the first positioning plate. A first gear is mounted on the first shaft between the first positioning plate and the second positioning plate, and has a first helical tooth portion. A second gear is mounted on the second shaft between the first positioning plate and the second positioning plate, and has a second helical tooth portion having a same tooth profile and helix angle as the first helical tooth portion. A middle gear is located between the first gear and the second gear and has a transmitting helical tooth portion engaging the first helical tooth portion and the second helical tooth portion. The middle gear rotates about an axis perpendicular with the first shaft and the second shaft. |
| US09127485B2 |
Security device for electrical conductors in a conduit
A bracket encircles a conduit or lamp post and includes an opening for access to a cover attached to the conduit or lamp post and serves as a security device to prevent access to the electrical conductors behind the cover. A removable plate having a bottom edge engaged within a channel extends across the opening of the bracket. A tang extends from the bracket for penetrable engagement with a slot in the plate. An aperture in the tang extending through the plate is engageable with the shackle of a lock to preclude removal of the plate. |
| US09127482B2 |
Door lock device with thermoactuator for household appliances
The invention relates to a door lock device for household appliances such as washing machines, clothes dryers and the like. The device comprises a slide (6) which is movable between a door lock position and a door unlock position, and which cooperates with a coupling tooth arranged on the door in order to hold the door locked when the household appliance is in operation. The device is fitted with a thermoactuator (4) that drives the slide (6) by imparting thereto a translational motion between a door lock position and a door unlock position. |
| US09127481B2 |
Mechanical barrier recipient verification system
A mechanical barrier recipient verification system including a combination lock assembly having a housing carrying a combination lock mechanism. The housing forms an aperture. The lock mechanism selectively receives and captures a post inserted through the aperture. Further the lock mechanism is configured to provide combination unset and set states; unlocked and locked positions; and correctly and incorrectly entered code arrangements. Following insertion of the post into the aperture and with the lock mechanism in the locked position, the post is retained by the lock mechanism regardless of the correctly or incorrectly entered code arrangement. |
| US09127480B2 |
Lock cylinder and key combination
A key and a lock cylinder (10) combination including a key and a lock cylinder having a housing and a plug. The key (25) includes a blade that has a first pin groove (210) on a first lateral side defining a first pin surface, and a second pin groove (215) on the first lateral side defining—a second pin surface. The lock cylinder also includes an auxiliary pin (115) with a first projection (135) defining a first engagement surface engageable by the first pin surface when the key is inserted into the key slot to move the auxiliary pin to a withdrawn position to allow rotation of the plug relative to the housing, and a second projection (140) defining a second engagement surface engageable by the second pin surface when the key is removed from the key slot to move the auxiliary pin to a projecting position to prevent rotation of the plug relative to the housing. |
| US09127478B2 |
Door entry system
A door entry device comprising includes a case, a key holder and a key pad. The case covers a door-locking device on a door. The key holder has a slot into which a key end fits. The knob is mounted on the case. A currently active security code can be entered into the keypad. When the currently active security code has been entered into the keypad, turning the knob results in turning the key holder to unlock the door-locking device. |
| US09127476B2 |
Vehicle covering apparatus
The embodiments provide a vehicle covering apparatus and a vehicle cover. The vehicle covering apparatus includes a base, an upright member, an arm, an extension rod a coupler assembly and support line. |
| US09127475B2 |
Adjustable mount and umbrella
An umbrella mount, and optional adaptor, a receiver for an umbrella pole and at least two pressure points that at least one strap and fastener can urge against a base support to securely position the mount. |
| US09127472B2 |
Flow control and indicator assemblies
Flow control and indicator assemblies are detailed. The assemblies are especially (although not necessarily exclusively) useful in allowing fluid to bypass automatic pool cleaners (APCs) and may serve as adaptors between APCs and adjacent hoses. The assemblies additionally may provide information about flow rates relative to a desired threshold, for example. |
| US09127469B1 |
Safety system for controlling fluid flow into a suction line
A safety system includes a sleeve fitted within a pool's suction line at the inlet thereof. An open end of the sleeve is approximately aligned with the suction line's inlet. The sleeve terminates with a plate that resides within the suction line. The plate has holes formed therethrough. A housing defining a plurality of distinct channels is fitted in the sleeve so that the distinct channels lie within the sleeve. Each of the distinct channels has a first opening on one end thereof and a second opening on another end thereof. The second openings reside in the sleeve. Each of the distinct channels is at least approximately three feet in length. The first openings are in fluid communication with the water in the pool, and are distributed around a periphery of an area of the housing that prevents coverage of all the first openings when a human interacts therewith. |
| US09127459B2 |
Surface covering tiles having an edge treatment for assembly that allows for grouting
Surface covering tiles made using synthetic materials employ junction strips which enable the tiles to be connected to one another. The connections can be made with or without adhesive. When the tiles are connected, a space is left between adjacent decorative surfaces to permit the application of grout or simulated grout therein. When the tiles are used as floor covering they can be used to make floating floors. As wall coverings, the tiles are adhered to the walls using conventional means. |
| US09127458B2 |
Collapsible roof truss assembly and method
The present invention involves the provision of a truss assembly and method which includes components that have segments pre-connected in a manner that allows the connected parts to be collapsed for packaging and shipping with the other components of a shed or the like. |
| US09127457B2 |
Machine for deforming and cutting plastic strips for enhancing concrete
A machine for deforming and cutting plastic strands of recycled plastic for use as a secondary reinforcement in concrete includes a multi-strand supply of recycled plastic and a mechanism for advancing the multi-strands into and through the machine. The advancing mechanism may be several sets of motor driven roller sets each of which is connected to a common motor by a belt. The machine includes three sets of deformation mechanisms, a heater for softening the deformed strands and a cutter powered by a separate motor for cutting the softened plastic strands. |
| US09127455B2 |
Interstitial seismic resistant support for an acoustic ceiling grid
Ceiling suspension system including a plurality of rigid, elongated seismic joists interposed between opposing walls of a room, spaced selected distances apart along a horizontal support plane, and hangers suspended from the respective joists to support a grid from the respective lower ends thereof. |
| US09127448B2 |
Retrofit catch basin for use in storm water management practice
A catch basin retrofit that allows stormwater to be diverted from an existing storm sewer to an alternative stormwater management practice (SMP), while maintaining functionality of the catch basin as an overflow device for the alternative SMP. |
| US09127446B2 |
Floor drain
A floor drain (10; 60; 70) comprising a channel body (14; 90) defining a drain channel (24) and having a drain opening (26), a frame (16; 62) defining a receiving opening (32) which can be inserted at least partially into the drain channel (24) and a cover (18) that can be inserted into the receiving opening (32) of the frame (16; 62), in particular in the form of a grate, at least one spacer (20; 64; 72; 87; 96) being provided for adjusting a distance between the channel body (14; 90) and a substrate and/or for adjusting the distance between the channel body (14; 90) and the frame (16; 62), the at least one spacer (20; 64; 72; 87; 96) being formed with infinite height adjustment. |
| US09127444B2 |
Transition end for a plastic pipe and method of installation
An apparatus and method are shown for installing a metal transition end on an open end of a length of plastic pipe having an outer diameter and an inner diameter by placing a stiffener sleeve within the inner diameter of the plastic pipe at a point which is circumscribed by the metal transition end. An actuating sleeve, carried on the draw rod, allows the stiffener sleeve to be installed in a desired location within the open plastic pipe end by using the draw rod to first position the stiffener sleeve in the desired location. The metal transition end is provided with an internal relief groove which accepts any excess plastic material forced past the stiffener sleeve during the installation process. |
| US09127443B1 |
Remote water shut-off valve system
A remote water shut-off valve system for isolating a water supply line to a structure includes the structure having a vertical wall with a shut-off valve fluidly located in a water supply line for sealing an upstream side of the water supply line from a downstream side to isolate water flow. The system includes a microprocessor, a valve receiver, a valve actuator, an activation switch, and a remote transmitter. For operation, an activation signal is sent to the microprocessor via the remote transmitter or the activation switch. The activation signal is sent to the actuator from the microprocessor. The actuator moves the shut-off valve into either an open or a closed position. The shut-off valve divides an upstream side of the water supply line from a downstream side of the water supply line to isolate water flow. |
| US09127442B1 |
Bucket, breaker, and gripping apparatus for an excavator boom stick
An excavating machine, representatively a tracked excavator, has a boom stick portion on which an excavating bucket and a gripper assembly mounted. A hydraulic breaker is protectively mounted inside the breaker assembly and extends outward therefrom. The bucket may be operated independently of the gripper assembly for digging operations. The gripper assembly may be positioned independently of the bucket and the breaker actuated for refusal material-breaking operations. The bucket and the gripper may be cooperatively operated to perform removal operations. The same excavating machine can be used for digging, gripping, and breaking operations without a tool change. |
| US09127441B2 |
Industrial machine
An industrial machine includes a power converter. The power converter includes: at least one power module; a capacitor; and a bus bar provided between any two among a load to be driven, the power module, and the capacitor. The bus bar includes: a first plate; a second plate; a first spacer configured to support respective corresponding first ends of the first plate and the second plate with a predetermined distance therebetween and to electrically connect the respective first ends of the first plate and the second plate with each other; and a second spacer configured to support respective corresponding second ends of the first plate and the second plate with a predetermined distance therebetween and to electrically connect the respective second ends of the first plate and the second plate with each other. |
| US09127439B2 |
Engine control device
A first target engine speed is set in response to a command value commanded by a command unit. A second target engine speed equal to or lower than the first target engine speed is set based on the first target engine speed. When the first target engine speed is reduced, the second target engine speed is set to be constant or be decreased and a reduction range for decreasing the first target engine speed to the second target engine speed is set to be decreased. The reduction range is set at zero when the first target engine speed is equal to or lower than an engine speed at least at a maximum torque point. |
| US09127438B2 |
Control system for hybrid construction machine
A control system for construction machine includes a pair of first and second main pumps which are variable-displacement pumps, first and second circuit systems connected to the first and second main pumps and including a plurality of control valves, main switching valves provided between the first and second circuit systems and the first and second main pumps, a hydraulic motor for power generation connected to the first and second main pumps via the main switching valves, a generator coupled to the hydraulic motor for power generation, and a battery for storing power generated by the generator. When at least the main switching valve connected to one circuit system is at a position to cause one main pump connected thereto to communicate with the hydraulic motor for power generation, the main switching valve connected to the other circuit system causes the other main pump to communicate with the other circuit system. |
| US09127436B2 |
Working vehicle engine output control system and method
An engine output control system is for a work vehicle composed of an engine, a travel device and a power transmission unit, the power transmission unit including a torque converter and transmitting an output of the engine to the travel device via the torque converter. The engine output control system includes a speed ratio computation portion and an engine output reduction control portion. The speed ratio computation portion is configured and arranged to compute a speed ratio of the torque converter. The engine output reduction control portion is configured and arranged to reduce an output torque of the engine without changing a target speed of the engine when the computed speed ratio is equal to or less than a speed ratio threshold set in advance. The speed ratio threshold is a speed ratio at which a torque ratio of the torque converter is greater than a torque ratio corresponding to a maximum efficiency. |
| US09127434B2 |
Electrical swivel working machine
An electrical swivel working machine includes a lower-part traveling body; an upper-part swivelling body mounted on the lower-part traveling body so as to be rotatable relative to the lower-part traveling body; a swivel mechanism supporting the upper-part swivelling body so that the upper-part swivelling body is rotatable relative to the lower-part traveling body; a motor for sniveling the upper-part swivelling body relative to the lower-part traveling body as a drive source of the swivel mechanism; and a swivel control part generating a drive command for driving the motor, wherein the swivel control part performs a slip prevention mode where a swivel operation of the upper-part swivelling body is mild relative to an ordinary swivel mode. |
| US09127429B2 |
Device for supporting the walls of an excavation
A device for supporting the walls of an excavation includes first and second opposing support panels that are spaced apart from one another by front and rear pairs of laterally extending separation members. Each support panel includes an outwardly bowed skin plate and a plurality of horizontal and vertical members secured to the inner surface of the skin plate for structural support. Each support panel additionally includes an inwardly bowed truss strap that is secured to the inner surface of the skin plate at its ends. In use, the truss strap serves to convert radial forces applied to the outer surface of the skin plate into tensile forces extending along the length of the strap. Accordingly, the outward radial curvature of the skin plate and the inclusion of the truss strap together serve to minimize the risk of panel deformation during use. |
| US09127425B2 |
Granular spreader assembly
An auger may have a spiral blade that extends radially outwardly from a shaft and that has resiliently-deformable material at the radial outer edge that physically contacts the inner surface of the tube in which the auger is positioned. When the auger is not rotated, the physical contact of the resiliently-deformable material on the inner surface of the tube may prevent granular material from flowing through the opening in the tube. |
| US09127423B2 |
Bollards
A telescopic bollard comprising: a bollard assembly, the bollard assembly including an outer bollard part defining a guide bore extending in a direction along the axis thereof from a base end to a head end thereof. An inner bollard part is housed within the guide bore so as to be slidingly moveable therealong between: a telescopically retracted state in at least some of the length of the inner bollard part resides within the guide bore, and a telescopically extended state in which relatively less of the length of the inner bollard part resides within the guide bore and relatively more of said length extends beyond the head end of the outer bollard part. |
| US09127419B2 |
Vehicle mounted apparatus for high-pressure fluid blasting
A vehicle mounted apparatus for high-pressure fluid blasting to remove material from or otherwise treat a surface, the apparatus comprising: a high-pressure fluid supply connected to a nozzle assembly containing at least one nozzle, the nozzle assembly being supported for movement along a track mounted transversely on the vehicle; and a suction device for conveying airflow and removed material through a conduit from the nozzle assembly to a treatment zone within the vehicle, the treatment zone having a separation means for accumulating removed material, a means for conveying airflow from the separation means to the suction device, and a means for conveying the removed material to a storage zone. |
| US09127418B2 |
Independently supported concrete saw apparatus and method
A saw apparatus is disclosed for sawing paving slabs. The saw apparatus has a frame mounted on a ground contacting propulsion member such that the frame straddles above a slab to be cut without touching the slab. A first saw support assembly disposes one or more blades of a saw in cutting engagement with the slab for a transverse cut. A second saw support assembly disposes a blade of another saw in cutting engagement with the slab for a longitudinal cut. The saw assemblies are configured to selectively, in a single pass along and over a slab, cut, vacuum, clean via pressurized air, fill a cut slot, and apply sealant to a cut slot concurrently with respect to a slot and sequentially with respect to a point of a slot. |
| US09127415B1 |
Anchor positioning form with drainage system
A form is provided for positioning an anchor in a castable material, such as concrete, having a core element defining a volume for creating a recess in the castable material, an anchor having one end positioned inside the core element for engaging a security device, such as a cable or chain, and the anchor having another end extending outside the core element, for fixing the anchor in the castable material, and an elongated drain forming member extending from the bottom of the core element to the ground, for creating a passageway for transporting water that collects in the recess. |
| US09127414B2 |
Pavement edge forming apparatus for paving machine
A paving machine includes a screed. The screed further includes an endgate, a mount, a platform, and a pavement edge forming member. The pavement edge forming member has a longitudinal member and a shaping plate coupled to the longitudinal member and is inclined at an angle to a non-paved surface. The shaping plate is configured to form a ramped surface between a mat and the non-paved surface. |
| US09127405B2 |
Paper filler composition
A method for preparing an aqueous suspension comprising microfibrillated cellulose and inorganic particulate material, the method comprising a step of microfibrillating a fibrous substrate comprising cellulose in an aqueous environment in the presence of an inorganic particulate material. |
| US09127404B2 |
Used paper recycling apparatus and its constituent devices
A used paper recycling apparatus capable to be installed in small office or general household, friendly to environment and low in running cost, and assuring high confidentiality. A used paper recycling apparatus comprising a pulp making section for crushing and beating used paper and making into pulp, a paper making section for recycling paper by making used paper pulp from the pulp making section, and a control section for driving and controlling by interlocking the pulp making section and paper making section, which are incorporated in a furniture size apparatus case, in which the pulp making section includes a crushing unit for stirring and grinding the used paper, and a beating unit for beating the crushed used paper from the crushing unit, and the crushing unit and beating unit are circulating the used paper pulp. |
| US09127397B2 |
Washing machine having suspension mounted motor
The present invention relates to a washing machine (100) including a cabinet (110) having a base (1.11), a tub (120) fixedly secured to an inside of the cabinet (110), a drum (130) rotatable provided in the tub (120), a rotation shaft (140) passed through the tub (120) from a rear of the drum (130), a bearing housing (150) connected to the rotation shaft (140), a suspension assembly (170) for buffering and supporting a structure connected to the bearing housing (150), a driving motor (181) provided to the suspension assembly (170) and a power transmission member (182) for transmission of the rotation force from the driving motor (181) to the rotation shaft (140), thereby permitting to increase a capacity of the washing machine (100) by changing the structure or the washing machine (100) and increase the rotation efficiency of the drum (130) by providing a driving structure which rotates the drum (130) and has an increased capacity by thus effects. |
| US09127395B2 |
Washing machine
A washing machine is disclosed. A washing machine includes a tub holding wash water, a drum rotatable within the tub to hold laundry, a first cabinet defining a first space to wash laundry together with the tub and the drum, a second cabinet defining a second space for an additional function, the second cabinet formed as one body with the first cabinet, and a single partition provided between the first and second cabinets to partition off the second space from the first space. |
| US09127394B2 |
Foreign object trap for a laundry treating appliance
A laundry treating appliance having a tub a defining an interior, a wash basket within the interior and having a bottom from which extends a peripheral wall to at least partially define a laundry treating chamber, a clothes mover located within the laundry treating chamber in an overlying relationship to at least a portion of the bottom of the wash basket, and rotatable about an axis of rotation, and a foreign object trap located in the portion of the wash basket defines a foreign object passageway for retaining foreign objects, the foreign object trap having at least one outlet opening with a first portion that is not at a right angle to the axis of rotation. |
| US09127392B2 |
Method and apparatus to detect an over-suds condition
Example methods for determining an over-sudsing condition during a wash cycle of operation in a laundry treating appliance containing a foamable liquid are disclosed. An example method includes rotating within a tub a drum defining a treating chamber while the tub contains a foamable liquid, determining, over time, a fluctuation in a signal from a pressure sensor fluidly coupled to the tub while the drum is rotating, the signal representing an amount of water in the tub, determining an over-sudsing condition when the fluctuation satisfies a predetermined threshold, and altering a cycle of operation in response to the determination of an over-sudsing condition. |
| US09127386B2 |
Sewing machine and non-transitory computer readable medium
A sewing machine includes a bed, a needle plate, a needle bar, a needle bar swing mechanism, an optical detecting portion, and a control portion. The optical detecting portion is configured to optically detect a cord pressed by a presser foot, and to output data representing the cord. The control portion is configured to calculate a width of the cord based on the data output by the optical detecting portion, calculate a swing width of the needle bar based on the width of the cord, and cause the needle bar swing mechanism to swing the needle bar with the swing width. |
| US09127385B2 |
Sewing machine, non-transitory computer-readable medium, and sewing machine system
A sewing machine includes an embroidery frame moving portion, a sewing portion, a communication portion, a processor, and a memory. The memory is configured to store computer-readable instructions that cause the processor to perform the steps of specifying an embroidery pattern and a size of the embroidery pattern, outputting the size of the embroidery pattern through the communication portion to a device provided with an image capture portion, acquiring positioning data through the communication portion, setting at least one of a position and the angle of a embroidery pattern on a sewing workpiece based on the positioning data, acquiring embroidery data, and causing the embroidery frame moving portion and the sewing portion to form stitches that make up the embroidery pattern on the sewing workpiece based on the embroidery data. The positioning data have been computed by the device based on image data and output to from the device. |
| US09127384B2 |
Sewing machine and non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-readable instructions for the sewing machine
A sewing machine includes a bed, a sewing device, a projection portion, an item detection portion, and a control portion. The sewing device includes a needle bar and a feed portion that moves a work cloth. The projection portion projects, onto at least one of the bed and the work cloth, a projected image that includes at least one operation item that indicates an operation of the sewing device. The item detection portion detects whether a user's finger has touched a location, on the at least one of the bed and the work cloth onto which the at least one operation item is being projected by the projection portion, where one of the at least one operation item is being projected. The control portion operates the sewing device in accordance with the operation item that has been detected by the item detection portion. |
| US09127382B2 |
Perspiration control glove
A perspiration control glove including a liner comprising knitted yarn, where the yarn comprises a wicking fiber, a shell comprising a polymeric material, the shell adhered to the liner, and an absorbent material element, where the element is coupled to the wicking fiber, and disposed between the liner and shell, to absorb and channel perspiration. |
| US09127378B2 |
Spinning machine comprising a compaction device
The invention relates to a device for compacting a sliver (V) on a spinning machine. At least one rotatably supported nip roller (33) is associated with a compaction element downstream from a suction zone (Z) to form a nip line (P). The compaction element (17) and the nip roller (33) are rotatably supported on a shared support (20) that is detachably fastened to the spinning machine via fastening means (46). The compaction element (17) has at least one drive element (28) that forms a drive connection with a bottom roller (7) of a pair of delivery rollers (7, 8) via a weighting device (55, 58) when the compaction element is transferred from an idle position to an operating position. The support has a suction channel (SK) for the suction air of the compaction element (17). A first end (S1) of the suction channel (SK) is connected to the compaction element, and a second end (S2) of the suction channel (SK) ends in the area of the support (20), by means of which the support in its installed position is fastened to the spinning machine. |
| US09127375B2 |
Base material for forming single crystal diamond film and method for producing single crystal diamond using the same
The present invention is a base material for forming a single crystal diamond comprising, at least, a seed base material of a single crystal and a thin film heteroepitaxially grown on the seed base material, wherein the seed base material is a single crystal diamond and the thin film is Iridium film or Rhodium film. As a result, there is provided a base material for forming a single crystal diamond that enables a single crystal diamond having a high crystallinity to be heteroepitaxially grown thereon and that can be reused repeatedly and a method for producing a single crystal diamond that enables a single crystal diamond having a high crystallinity and a large area to be produced at low cost. |
| US09127374B2 |
Epitaxial growth method
A method for growing an epitaxial film on a surface of a semiconductor wafer by mounting the wafer within a susceptor pocket and supplying source gas and carrier gas to the upper surface side of the susceptor and supplying carrier gas to the lower surface side of the susceptor. The susceptor includes a substantially circular bottom wall and a sidewall encompassing the bottom wall to form a pocket for mounting the wafer, wherein a plurality of circular through-holes are formed in the bottom wall in an outer peripheral region a distance of up to about ½ the radius toward the center of the bottom wall. The total opening surface area of the through-holes is 0.05 to 55% of the surface area of the bottom wall, the opening surface area of each through-hole is 0.2 to 3.2 mm2 and the density of the through-holes is 0.25 to 25 per cm2. |
| US09127372B2 |
Pressure vessel for growing single crystals
An object of the present invention is to manufacture single crystals of high quality on an industrial production scale by preventing impurities from being mixed in single crystals when the single crystals are produced by the solvothermal method.A pressure vessel body 1, in which a supercritical state is maintained, is made of heat resistant alloy, a portion of the pressure vessel body is open, a corrosion-resistant mechanical lining 5 is provided on an inner face of the pressure vessel and on an entire outer circumferential edge of the opening, and the opening is sealed by an airtight mating face formed out of a corrosion-resistant mechanical lining, which is formed on the outer circumferential edge of the opening, and by an airtight mating face of the corrosion-resistant mechanical lining cover 6 on an inner face of the cover 3 through a corrosion-resistant gasket member. Since the pressure vessel body and the inner face of the cover are covered with the corrosion-resistant mechanical lining, corrosion can be prevented. The corrosion-resistant mechanical lining ensures the sealing property on the airtight mating face between the pressure vessel body and the cover and further effectively prevents corrosion in the airtight sealing portion and it becomes possible to repeatedly open and close the airtight sealing portion. |
| US09127368B2 |
Etchant and method for manufacturing display device using the same
An etchant includes, based on a total amount of the etchant, from about 0.5 to about 20 wt % of a persulfate, from about 0.01 to about 2 wt % of a fluorine compound, from about 1 to about 10 wt % of an inorganic acid, from about 0.5 to about 5 wt % of an azole compound, from about 0.1 to about 5 wt % of an electron-donating compound, from about 0.1 to about 5 wt % of a chlorine compound, from about 0.05 to about 3 wt % of a copper salt, from about 0.1 to about 10 wt % of an organic acid or an organic acid salt, and a remaining amount of water. |
| US09127366B2 |
Zinc-based metal coated steel sheet
A surface treatment liquid contains a resin emulsion that contains a cationic urethane resin emulsion and/or a nonionic acrylic resin emulsion, a tetraalkoxysilane, at least one silane coupling agent (c) that contains at least one reactive functional group selected from active hydrogen-containing amino group, an epoxy group, a mercapto group, and a methacryloxy group, a chelating agent (d), a vanadic acid compound (e), a titanium compound (f), and water in a specific ratio. The surface treatment liquid has a pH of 3 to 6. The surface treatment liquid is applied to a surface of a zinc-based metal coated steel sheet and dried by heating to form a first layer. Next, a surface treatment liquid containing an organic resin is applied to a surface of the first layer and dried by heating to form a second layer. |
| US09127365B2 |
Generation of multilayer structures in a single sputtering module of a multi-station magnetic recording media fabrication tool
Methods of fabricating perpendicular magnetic recording media are disclosed. The multilayer structures of the perpendicular magnetic recording media are fabricated by varying the sputtering conditions (i.e., pressure, sputtering gas, etc) in a single sputtering module so that multiple sputtering modules are not needed to form the multilayer structures. These fabrication methods allow sputtering tools with a limited number of chambers, which were designed for the manufacture of longitudinal media, to be used to efficiently produce perpendicular media architectures which heretofore required a large number of sputtering modules. It is further shown that media structures involving a geometric weak-link architecture are suited for these fabrication techniques. |
| US09127364B2 |
Reactor clean
A method and apparatus for performing chemical vapor deposition (CVD) processes is provided. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a reactor body having a processing region, comprising a wafer carrier track having a wafer carrier disposed thereon, at least one sidewall having an exhaust assembly for exhausting gases from the processing region, a lid assembly disposed on the reactor body, comprising a lid support comprising a first showerhead assembly for supplying reactant gases to the processing region, a first isolator assembly for supplying isolation gases to the processing region, a second showerhead assembly for supplying reactant gases to the processing region, and a second isolator assembly for supplying isolation gases to the processing region, wherein the first showerhead assembly, the first isolator assembly, the second showerhead assembly, and the second isolator assembly are consecutively and linearly disposed next to each other. |
| US09127363B2 |
Fluorinated porous article
An article having at least one fluorinated porous layer having a basis weight of about 10 to about 300 grams per square meter and a thickness of about 0.20 to about 20 millimeters. The porous layer also exhibits a Q200 of greater than about 1.1. |
| US09127361B2 |
Methods of and apparatus for controlling pressure in multiple zones of a process tool
A method of and a multiple zone pressure controller system for controlling the pressure of a gas or vapor flowing to at least two zones of a process tool such as a vacuum deposition chamber. The system comprises: at least two channels configured and arranged so as to provide the flow of the gas or vapor to corresponding zones of the process tool, each channel including a pressure controller configured and arranged to control the pressure of gas or vapor in each channel, a leakby orifice or nozzle configured to provide a leak rate of gas or vapor from the channel; and a controller configured and arrange to determine the true flow information to each zone of the process tool so that the true leak rate in the chamber can be determined. |
| US09127345B2 |
Methods for depositing an epitaxial silicon germanium layer having a germanium to silicon ratio greater than 1:1 using silylgermane and a diluent
The present application relates to methods for depositing a smooth, germanium rich epitaxial film by introducing silylgermane as a source gas into a reactor at low temperatures. The epitaxial film can be strained and serve as an active layer, or relaxed and serve as a buffer layer. In addition to the silylgermane gas, a diluent is provided to modulate the percentage of germanium in a deposited germanium-containing film by varying the ratio of the silylgermane gas and the diluent. The ratios can be controlled by way of dilution levels in silylgermane storage containers and/or separate flow, and are selected to result in germanium concentration greater than 55 atomic % in deposited epitaxial silicon germanium films. The diluent can include a reducing gas such as hydrogen gas or an inert gas such as nitrogen gas. Reaction chambers are configured to introduce silylgermane and the diluent to deposit the silicon germanium epitaxial films. |
| US09127331B2 |
Method for producing oxide/hydroxide
Provided is a method for producing an oxide and/or hydroxide wherein the ratio of oxide and hydroxide has been controlled. The method produces an oxide, a hydroxide, or a mixture thereof, and obtains an oxide and/or a hydroxide wherein the ratio of oxide and hydroxide has been controlled by means of changing a specific condition relating to at least one fluid to be processed introduced between processing surfaces (1, 2) when causing the precipitation of the oxide, hydroxide, or mixture thereof by mixing an basic fluid containing at least one type of basic substance and a fluid containing at least one type of metal or metallic substance as the fluids to be processed between the processing surfaces (1, 2) that are provided facing each other, are able to approach to and separate from each other, and of which at least one rotates relative to the other. The specific condition is at least one condition selected from the group consisting of: the speed of introduction of at least one of the fluids to be processed; and the pH of at least one of the fluids to be processed. |
| US09127330B2 |
Method of shaping and hardening a sheet steel blank
A method of forming a product by shaping and hardening a sheet-steel blank formed from separate sheets welded together, heating the blank to the austenitising range, hot stamping the blank in a cooled tool pair, hardening the product while it remains in the tool pair, and cooling the weld between two adjacent sheets at a reduced cooling rate as compared to the cooling rate of areas on either side of the weld. |
| US09127328B2 |
Tiltable oxygen converter
A converter comprising a container (2) defining a first axis (X); a support ring (3), coaxial to the container (2) and spaced therefrom, equipped with two diametrically opposite supporting pins (6), defining a second axis (Y) which is orthogonal to the first axis (X), adapted to allow the converter to be rotated about said second axis; suspension elements, connecting said container (2) to said support ring (3), restrained at a first end to the container (2) and at a second end to the support ring (3); in which said suspension elements comprise at least three first bars (7) arranged parallel to the first axis (X) and substantially equidistant from each other along said support ring; at least two second bars (8, 8′), each second bar (8, 8′) being orthogonal to said second axis (Y) and diametrically opposite with respect to the other second bar (8′, 8); at least one third bar (9) being arranged parallel to a first plane (X-Y) defined by said first axis (X) and second axis (Y); wherein all said bars are fixed-end bars. |
| US09127322B2 |
Yeast having immunopotentiating capability and food or feed
A yeast including a cell wall having a low mannan content, wherein the yeast has an immunopotentiating capability, and is able to grow in a YPD liquid medium with an osmotic pressure of 300 mOsm, and wherein, when a part of a pre-culture of the yeast grown in a YPDS liquid medium is added to the YPD liquid medium so that OD660 is adjusted to 0.1, followed by incubating at 30° C. for 24 hours, the yeast grows to increase the OD660 of the YPD liquid medium to 1.0 or more. |
| US09127321B2 |
Method of detecting Coccidioides species
The present invention provides methods and kits that may be used to detect and quantify the presence of Coccidioides species. The methods include quantification PCR assays, and the kits and compositions include oligonucleotides used as primers and probes. |
| US09127318B2 |
Multiplexed KRAS mutation detection assay
Provided herein is reagent mixture comprising multiplexed amplification reagents and flap assay reagents for detecting, in a single reaction, mutant copies of the KRAS gene that contain any of the 34A, 34C, 34T, 35A, 35C, 35T or 38A point mutations. Methods that employ the reagent mix and kits for performing the same are also provided. |
| US09127315B2 |
Means and methods for haplotyping MHC-DRB loci in mammals and uses thereof
The invention relates to the typing of MHC-DRB loci in mammals. In particular, the invention provides a typing procedure for the mammalian DRB region that allows an easy, economical, high resolution, fast and accurate haplotyping protocol. The invention further provides the use of said typing procedure in genetic applications, and provides a kit for typing of MHC-DRB loci. |
| US09127308B2 |
Nucleic acid probes, their synthesis and use
The invention provides a method of probing for a nucleic acid comprising: contacting a nucleic acid solution with an oligonucleotide probe labelled with an electrochemically active marker, providing conditions at which the probe is able to at least partially hybridize with any complementary target sequence which may be present in the nucleic acid solution, selectively degrading either hybridized, partially hybridized or unhybridized nucleic acid probe, and electrochemically determining information relating to the electrochemically active marker. The invention further provides novel molecules with use in methods of the invention. |
| US09127306B2 |
Methods and apparatuses for nucleic acid shearing by sonication
Methods and kits for preparing nucleic acid fragments from a sample of purified nucleic acid are provided. Alternatively, chromatin or other long polymers can be sheared with similar methods and kits. |
| US09127288B2 |
Methods of producing lipids
The present invention relates to methods of producing lipids. In particular, the present invention relates to methods of increasing the level of one or more non-polar lipids and/or the total non-polar lipid content in a transgenic organism or part thereof. In one particular embodiment, the present invention relates to the use of an acyltransferase, for example, a monoacylglycerol acyltransferase (MGAT) to increase the level of one or more non-polar lipids and/or the total non-polar lipid content in plants, plant seed and/or leaves, algae and fungi. |
| US09127285B2 |
Genetically altered ciliates and uses thereof
Ciliate organisms are provided that comprise reduced proteolytic processing in granules. For example, ciliates are provided that lack detectable expression of one or more sortilin (SOR) gene product. Methods for producing such genetically altered ciliates and methods for protein production in a these organisms are also provided. |
| US09127282B2 |
Fusion proteins of bacterial luciferase as multicolor luminescent sensors
The present invention discloses systems and methods for altering the color of bacterial bioluminescence via a fusion protein complex by fusing Discosoma sp. fluorescent protein mOrange (mOrange) with Vibrio harveyi luciferase. The fusion of mOrange to the N- or C-terminus of either α or β subunit of luciferase, via a short peptide linker produces fully active fusion enzymes. The fusion of mOrange to the N-terminus of luciferase α gives rise to a new 560-nm emission component. The same methodology may be used to alter bacterial bioluminescence color by covalent attachment of other suitable fluorescent proteins or chromophores to luciferase for generating multi-color sensors. |
| US09127281B2 |
siRNA molecules for the treatment of blood vessels
The present invention relates to a nucleic acid molecule, a genetic construct, siRNA molecules and a composition which comprises the nucleic acid molecule and/or the genetic construct and/or the siRNA molecules and can be used for inhibition of the expression of endothelial adhesion molecules. The invention also relates to a device, which is coated with the aforementioned molecules, the composition or the construct, or contains them. The present invention further relates to a corresponding use of the nucleic acid molecule, of the genetic construct or of the siRNA molecules and a method of inhibition of the expression of adhesion molecules and a method of vessel grafting, lung transplantation, treatment of lung transplants, and a method of treatment of the open heart within the scope of cardioplegia. |
| US09127278B2 |
Modulation of hepatitis B virus (HBV) expression
Disclosed herein are antisense compounds and methods for decreasing HBV mRNA, DNA and protein expression. Such methods, compounds, and compositions are useful to treat, prevent, or ameliorate HBV-related diseases, disorders or conditions. |
| US09127271B2 |
Multi-targeted priming for genome-wide gene expression assays
The present invention is a method of generating a library of expressed cDNA sequences using multi-targeted primers that are complementary to degenerate motifs present in a large proportion of corresponding mRNA sequences. Multi-targeting priming (MTP) for genome-wide gene expression assays provides selective targeting of multiple sequences and counter-selection against undesirable sequences. Priming with MTPs in addition to oligo-dT can result in higher sensitivity, a greater number of genes whose expression is well measured, a greater number of genes whose differences in gene expression are detected to be statistically, and a greater power to detect meager differences in expression. |
| US09127266B2 |
Asparaginase enzyme variants and uses thereof
The present invention relates to newly identified asparaginase polypeptide variants of SEQ ID NO: 3 and to polynucleotide sequences that encode such novel asparaginase variants. Furthermore the invention relates to the use of these novel asparaginase variants in industrial processes. |
| US09127263B2 |
Celluloytic enzymes, nucleic acids encoding them and methods for making and using them
The invention is directed to polypeptides having any cellulolytic activity, e.g., a cellulase activity, e.g., endoglucanase, cellobiohydrolase, beta-glucosidase, xylanase, mannanse, β-xylosidase, arabinofuranosidase, and/or oligomerase activity, including thermostable and thermotolerant activity, and polynucleotides encoding these enzymes, and making and using these polynucleotides and polypeptides. The polypeptides of the invention can be used in a variety of pharmaceutical, agricultural, food and feed processing and industrial contexts. The invention also provides compositions or products of manufacture comprising mixtures of enzymes comprising at least one enzyme of this invention. |
| US09127262B2 |
Polypeptides having glucoamylase activity and polynucleotides encoding same
The present invention relates to isolated polypeptides having glucoamylase activity and isolated polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides. The invention also relates to nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the polynucleotides as well as methods of producing and using the polypeptides. |
| US09127259B2 |
Enzymes resistant to photodamage
Provided are compositions comprising modified DNA polymerases that exhibit improved photostability compared to the parental polymerases from which they were derived. Provided are methods for generating enzymes, such as DNA polymerases, with the aforementioned phenotype. Provided are methods of using polymerases with increased resistance to photodamage to make a DNA or to sequence a DNA template. |
| US09127253B2 |
Method of deriving mature hepatocytes from human embryonic stem cells
A method for producing mature hepatocytes having functional hepatic enzyme activity from human pluripotent cells is disclosed. The method includes the step of transferring an external vector that includes a microRNA having the seed sequence of the microRNA miR-122, a DNA sequence coding for such a microRNA, a microRNA having the seed sequence of the microRNA miR-let-7c, a DNA sequence coding for such a microRNA, or a combination these, into one or more fetal hepatocytes. The resulting cells differentiate into mature hepatocytes that exhibit functional hepatic enzyme activity, and that can be used in drug metabolism and toxicity testing, in the study of viruses that target hepatic tissue, and as therapeutics. |