| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09211762B1 |
Castor with two braking functions
A castor includes a castor body provided with an upper slideway, a lower slideway and a projection, two rollers mounted on the castor body, a first braking member pivotally connected with the castor body and provided with a protrusion, a second braking member mounted in the lower slideway, a sliding block mounted in the upper slideway of the castor body, a compression spring biased between the castor body and the sliding block, and a linear spring mounted between the projection of the castor body and the protrusion of the first braking member. Thus, the linear spring provides a restoring force to the protrusion of the first braking member and eliminates the stress applied on the protrusion of the first braking member and the projection of the castor body. |
| US09211761B2 |
Brake dust seal
A brake dust seal is configured to protect a wheel with a rim from brake dust coming from a brake proximate the wheel. The brake dust seal includes a solid panel covering a back of the wheel and connected to the wheel with a pliable seal that prevents the brake dust from getting to an outside of the rim. |
| US09211759B2 |
Writing instrument holder
A writing instrument holder that includes an adhesive base that includes a generally shape, a plurality of holding notches and a holding slot and an adhesive backer insert with a vertical planar base and a perpendicular planar insert. The writing instrument holder also includes a peel away cover with a front facing, a back facing and a generally square planar shape, the peel away cover is placed over the front facing of the vertical planar base to protect an adhesive. |
| US09211756B2 |
Liquid applicator device
A liquid applicator device is disclosed for applying a liquid from a container to a surface. A closure defining a closure aperture is secured the closure to the container. A sealing member sealingly engages with the closure mounting. The sealing member has a tubular sleeve with an applicator slidably disposed within the tubular sleeve. The applicator comprises a hollow interior with an applicator tip defined by an outer applicator portion of the applicator. A biasing member coacts between the closure and the applicator for urging the applicator to form a seal with the sealing member. A depression of the outer applicator portion against the surface displaces the applicator from the sealing member to enable the flow of the liquid from the container to the applicator tip of the applicator. |
| US09211755B2 |
Printing table assembly, method for operating a printing table assembly
A printing table arrangement includes at least one printing device for printing of substrates, at least one printing table, a first transport device to transport the substrates being printed in a first plane, and a lifting device to move the first transport device with the first plane between a printing plane assigned to the printing device and a transport plane lying underneath. The printing table has a second transport device to transport substrates in a second plane beneath the first plane, in which the fixed spacing between the first plane and the second plane corresponds to the spacing between the printing plane and transport plane. |
| US09211751B2 |
Media-tracking system using marking laser
A system is described for tracking a position of a receiver medium as it travels along a media path. A laser provides heat to the receiver medium in a localized area sufficient to permanently alter a physical property of the receiver medium thereby forming a reference mark. A sensor at a downstream position along the media path is adapted to sense the reference mark providing a sensed signal. The sensed signal is analyzed to determine a position of the receiver medium as the receiver medium passes through the second position along the media path by detecting a position of the reference mark. |
| US09211746B1 |
Hybrid printer for printing on non-porous media
A hybrid inkjet printer for printing on a non-porous medium includes a data processing system provides a tone value of a half-tone pattern in a pre-determined function of an image-wise lay-down of an inkjet image; toner printer for pre-coating a non-porous medium with toner resin particles in a half-tone pattern to create a patterned toner coated medium in accordance with the tone value; inkjet ejectors for applying the image-wise lay-down of the inkjet image to said half-tone patterned toner coated media to provide an image on said half-tone patterned toner coated medium; and a fuser for fusing said image on said toner coated medium. |
| US09211745B2 |
Image erasing apparatus and image forming apparatus
According to an embodiment, an image erasing apparatus includes an erasing unit, an input unit, and a control unit. The erasing unit erases an image formed on a recording medium. The input unit inputs identification data which identifies an apparatus which forms the image on the recording medium. The control unit controls an operation of the erasing unit based on the identification data input by the input unit. According to another embodiment, an image forming apparatus includes an image forming unit which forms an image on a recording medium, the erasing unit, the input unit, and the control unit. |
| US09211744B2 |
Media processing device with enhanced media and ribbon loading and unloading features
A device for processing media may include a system and method for loading and unloading consumable supplies of a printer, and more particularly, a system and method for providing a compact form factor printer which provides convenient access to the replaceable components of the printer. A printer may include a base and a lid hingedly attached to the base, moveable between a closed position in which the lid is secured to the base, and an open position. A cavity may be defined between the lid and the base, where the cavity is inaccessible when the lid is in the closed position and the cavity is accessible when the lid is in the open position. The printer may include a ribbon positioning assembly disposed within the cavity. |
| US09211743B2 |
Droplet discharge device and droplet discharge method
A printer includes a control section that is capable of executing a first process for forming an image on a sheet by discharging ink droplets from a liquid ejection head on the basis of image data and a second process for forming, on the sheet, a test pattern for determination of a shift in ink droplet adhesion position by discharging droplets on the basis of test data. The control section executes the second process in a state in which a print gap between the liquid ejection head and a support is longer than the shortest adjustable print gap. |
| US09211741B2 |
Position encoder systems
A position encoder signal control system is disclosed. A position encoder input line receives a position encoder signal and a diagnostic input line receives a position encoder diagnostic signal. An output line is couplable to a position encoder output channel and a controller selectively connects one of the position encoder input line and the diagnostic input line to the output line. |
| US09211736B2 |
System and method for reducing electrostatic fields underneath print heads in an electrostatic media transport
Embodiments described herein are directed to a system for reducing electrostatic fields underneath print heads in a direct marking printing system. The system includes: one or more print heads for depositing ink onto a media substrate; a media transport for moving the media substrate along a media path past the one or more print heads; a conductive platen contacting the media transport belt; and an electrostatic field reducer that includes an alternating current corona device positioned upstream of the one or more print heads. The media transport includes a media transport belt and, when the media substrate is on the transport belt it has an electrostatic field, which can cause printing defects. The electrostatic field reducer reduces the electrostatic field on the surface of the media substrate and thereby reduces printing defects. |
| US09211734B2 |
Paper width detection method for a label printer, printing control method for a label printer, and a label printer
When a label printer detects the paper width, the paper width detection operation scans the transportation path in the paper width direction by the paper width detector not once but twice, and conveys the recording medium transportation distance L, which is longer than the gap length of the gap between labels and is shorter than the label length of each label, between the first and second paper width detection operations. Of the two positions detected as the left edge of the recording medium in the first and second detection operations, the position that is farthest left is used. Likewise, of the two positions detected as the right edge of the recording medium in the first and second detection operations, the position that is farthest right is used. |
| US09211733B2 |
Liquid ejecting apparatus
A printer includes a transportation unit that transports a continuous form paper, an ejecting unit that ejects ink onto the continuous form paper, a continuous form paper supporting unit that includes a supporting surface capable of supporting the continuous form paper so as to be opposite to the ejecting unit, a light-transmitting glass that is mounted at a position in the medium supporting unit which faces the continuous form paper transported by the transportation unit, an imaging unit that captures an image of the continuous form paper which passes over a front surface of the light-transmitting glass, a control unit that controls a transportation amount of the continuous form paper based on the image captured by the imaging unit, and a suction fan that generates an airflow onto the front surface of the light-transmitting glass. An antistatic film is formed on the front surface of the light-transmitting glass. |
| US09211724B2 |
Adjustable stenographic keyboard device and method for electronically adjusting key depth sensitivity
A stenographic device includes a display, a memory, keys of a stenographic keyboard, each key having a resting position where the key is un-actuated, a depressed position where the key is actuated to register a key stroke, and a range of depression positions therebetween, and a processor communicatively coupled to the display, memory, and the keys. The processor causes the display to graphically show a respective depression indicator of a current one of the depression positions for each of the keys, stores in the memory a respective key-press registration point for each of the keys, the registration point being a depression position located within the range of depression positions and indicating when the respective key is in the actuated state, and causes the display to graphically show a respective registration indicator corresponding to the stored registration point for each of the keys. |
| US09211720B2 |
Fluid container having first and second key set
A fluid container usable with an image forming apparatus including a receiving unit having a plurality of receiver slots is disclosed. The fluid container includes a housing unit including a plurality of wall portions and a fluid chamber to store fluid therein. The housing unit is to removably attach to a respective receiver slot of the receiving unit. The fluid container includes a first key set disposed on an exterior surface of one wall portion of the housing unit. The first key set is to form a first key pattern corresponding to a conforming first receiver key pattern of a respective receiver slot. The fluid container includes a second key set disposed on an exterior surface of an other wall portion of the housing unit. The second key set is to form a second key pattern corresponding to a conforming second receiver key pattern of the respective receiver slot. |
| US09211718B2 |
Print bar and print bar shroud
In one example, a shroud to protect a printhead in a print bar includes: an elongated body having an opening therein through which a printhead may dispense liquid past the shroud when the shroud is affixed to the print bar; and a bump on an exterior surface of the body next to the opening. The bump is configured to guide a leading edge of print media away from the printhead during printing when the shroud is affixed to the print bar and the print bar is installed in a printer. |
| US09211717B2 |
Cap of liquid discharge head and liquid discharge apparatus
The invention provides a cap of a liquid discharge head that discharges liquid from nozzle holes, can come in contact with a nozzle hole surface, and has an opposite surface opposite the nozzle hole surface, in which the opposite surface has protrusions. |
| US09211712B2 |
Injection molded ink jet modules
A print head includes an aperture plate and a plurality of duplicate, injection molded, jet modules that are coupled to the aperture plate. Each of the jet modules includes a plurality of jets and corresponding ink supply cavity that seals against the aperture plate and provides ink to the jets. Each jet module further includes a registration member and an edge alignment feature. The registration member holds the jet module in place relative to a corresponding registration member of the aperture plate. The edge alignment feature overlaps a corresponding alignment feature on a neighboring one of the jet modules in a z-direction and minimizes misalignment between the jet module and the neighboring jet module. |
| US09211707B2 |
Method for manufacturing inkjet recording head
A method for manufacturing an inkjet recording head includes preparing a substrate having a mold to become an ink flow passage and an orifice layer covering the mold, and immersing the substrate in a solvent, whereby in immersing the substrate in the solvent, the mold at the substrate immersed in the solvent is irradiated with deep-UV light. |
| US09211705B2 |
Printer with printhead assembly, clutch assembly, and printer ribbon transport assembly
A printer may include a printhead assembly a clutch assembly, and/or a printer ribbon transport assembly. The printhead assembly may include a printhead biasing assembly defining a biasing ramp which may be configured to apply a biasing force to a printhead support bracket so as to at least partially counteract a ribbon force. The clutch assembly may be configured to supply or take-up a printer ribbon with first and second spool engagement members of different diameters that frictionally engage first and second friction members. The printer ribbon transport assembly may include a rotation lock mechanism configured to prevent rotation of a ribbon take-up core when the take-up core is disengaged from a drive assembly so as to prevent a loss in ribbon tension. |
| US09211701B2 |
Ink jet printer
An ink jet printer includes an image control unit that controls rotation of image data so that a direction of a short side of a rectangular area in a printing sheet becomes a print width direction that is orthogonal to a sheet transport direction if a first warm-up time calculated by a warm-up time calculation unit is shorter than a warm-up time until an ink temperature of an overall ink discharge target width of an ink jet head reaches an appropriate temperature range. |
| US09211700B1 |
Liquid ejecting apparatus, method of controlling liquid ejecting apparatus, and program for controlling liquid ejecting apparatus
A apparatus including a head unit that includes first nozzles which eject a first liquid, second nozzles which eject a second liquid, third nozzles which eject a third liquid; and a control unit that controls driving of the head unit, in which, when an amount of the first liquid to be ejected from the first nozzles in order to form an image on the medium is a first ejection amount and an ejection state of the liquid ejected from the first nozzles is abnormal, the control unit increases the amount of the second liquid ejected from the second nozzles by a second ejection amount which is smaller than the first ejection amount and increases the amount of the third liquid ejected from the third nozzles by a third ejection amount which is smaller than the first ejection amount instead of allowing the first nozzles to eject the first liquid. |
| US09211698B2 |
Charge control type ink jet printer and printing method
The visibility of a printing object using a photo-curable ink is improved. A charge control type ink jet printer includes a nozzle which continuously forms ink droplets, a charging electrode which charges each of the ink droplets, a deflection electrode which deflects the charged ink droplet, and a print head which discharges the deflected ink droplet to print the droplet onto a printed substrate. The print head has a UV light source. The UV light source has a focusing member which focuses UV light onto at least part of a flying path of the ink droplet between the print head and the printed substrate and onto a landed region of the printed substrate, and a light emission source. |
| US09211693B2 |
Strip-shaped body cutting position adjustment method and system for cutting apparatus
A printing press control device and a cut-off register control device forcibly move a compensator roller by a set moving amount each time a set time elapses during a period from the start of speed acceleration to the end of speed acceleration. |
| US09211692B2 |
In-line shell processing
A method of printing and assembling a printed product including unrolling a continuous web of paper from a roll on a printing line, printing non-personalized information on the paper on the printing line, printing personalized information on the paper on a finishing line, performing at least one paper conversion step after printing the personalized information to create a personalized signature on the finishing line, and feeding the personalized signature into a pocket on the finishing line. |
| US09211691B2 |
Delamination device
Provided is a delamination device of delaminating a laminated substrate obtained by bonding a first substrate and a second substrate, the laminated substrate being disposed in an opening of a frame, the opening having a diameter larger than that of the laminated substrate, and the laminated substrate being held by the frame with a non-bonding surface of the first substrate attached to a tape provided in the opening. The delamination device includes: a first holding unit configured to hold the second substrate of the laminated substrate from above; a second holding unit configured to hold the first substrate of the laminated substrate from below through the tape; and a moving mechanism configured to move the first holding unit in a direction away from the second holding unit. |
| US09211689B2 |
Composite material structures with integral composite fittings and methods of manufacture
Composite material structures prepared from at least one reinforcement material and at least one matrix material are disclosed. The invention provides a simple solution for combining two or more components made of a composite material into a monolithic “fastener free” structure of a composite material having a smooth contour. The composite material structure includes a main frame with at least one load bearing beam having at least one beam surface. To this beam surface at least one composite material fitting is integrally attached. The main frame and the composite material fitting are conjoined by at least one matrix material. In addition, the disclosed technique provides for methods of production of a composite material structure with fittings made of a composite material. |
| US09211683B2 |
Method for manufacturing gas tank
The present invention is a method of manufacturing a gas tank, this method including: a step of forming a fiber reinforced plastics layer by winding a fiber that is impregnated with thermosetting plastics around at least part of a mouthpiece and around a liner; and a step of thermally curing the fiber reinforced plastics layer through induction heating, wherein the mouthpiece is heated by a heating unit that is distinct from the induction heating while the fiber reinforced plastics layer is thermally cured. |
| US09211682B2 |
Controlling crystalline morphology of a bioabsorbable stent
Methods to expand polymer tubing with desirable or optimum morphology and mechanical properties for stem manufacture and fabrication of a stent therefrom are disclosed. |
| US09211679B1 |
Systems and methods of forming a skin for a composite structure and composite structures including the same
Systems and methods of forming a skin for a composite structure and composite structures including the same. The systems and methods include operatively attaching a charge of composite material to a flexible substrate to define a composite-substrate assembly. The systems and methods further include deforming the composite-substrate assembly by conforming the composite-substrate assembly to a non-planar pre-forming surface of a pre-forming mandrel to define a non-planar skin surface contour on the charge of composite material. The systems and methods further include maintaining the charge of composite material in tension in a direction that is parallel to an interface between the charge of composite material and the flexible substrate during the deforming. |
| US09211678B2 |
Method and apparatus for three-dimensional fabrication
A method of forming a three-dimensional object, is carried out by (a) providing a carrier and a build plate, the build plate comprising a semipermeable member, the semipermeable member comprising a build surface with the build surface and the carrier defining a build region therebetween, and with the build surface in fluid communication by way of the semipermeable member with a source of polymerization inhibitor; (b) filling the build region with a polymerizable liquid, the polymerizable liquid contacting the build surface, (c) irradiating the build region through the build plate to produce a solid polymerized region in the build region, while forming or maintaining a liquid film release layer comprised of the polymerizable liquid formed between the solid polymerized region and the build surface, wherein the polymerization of which liquid film is inhibited by the polymerization inhibitor; and (d) advancing the carrier with the polymerized region adhered thereto away from the build surface on the build plate to create a subsequent build region between the polymerized region and the build surface while concurrently filling the subsequent build region with polymerizable liquid as in step (b). Apparatus for carrying out the method is also described. |
| US09211676B2 |
Three-dimensional printing apparatus
A three-dimensional (3-D) printing apparatus includes a base, a printing head module and a control unit. The base includes a carrying surface and a guiding mechanism. The guiding mechanism extends along a long-axis direction of the base. The printing head module movably disposed on the guiding mechanism. The length of the base is greater than the length of the printing head module, such that the printing head module is suitable for moving relatively to the guiding mechanism. The control unit coupled to the base and the printing head module controls the printing head module to move relatively to the base according to extensional information of the digital 3-D model along the long-axis direction, such that the printing head module dispenses a material on the carrying surface to form a 3-D object when moving relatively to the base. |
| US09211674B2 |
Method for bonding a thermoplastic polymer to a thermosetting polymer component
The invention relates to a method for bonding a thermoplastic polymer to a thermosetting polymer component, the thermoplastic polymer having a melting temperature that exceeds the curing temperature of the thermosetting polymer. The method comprises the steps of providing a cured thermosetting polymer component comprising an implant of a thermoplastic polymer at least at the part of the thermosetting polymer component to be bonded, locating a thermoplastic polymer in contact with at least the part to be bonded, heating the assembly to the melting temperature of the thermoplastic polymer, whereby the thermoplastic polymer of the implant melts and fuses with the thermoplastic polymer, and cooling the assembly. The thermoplastic polymer has a melting temperature that exceeds the curing temperature of the thermosetting polymer, and the implant is designed such that heating above the maximum operating temperature of the thermosetting polymer at the interface of the implant with the thermosetting polymer component is avoided during the bonding step. |
| US09211672B2 |
Method for molding thermoplastic resin product and molding apparatus therefor
An apparatus for molding a thermoplastic resin product includes a heating apparatus which conducts heating by radiation of infrared rays by using a light source; a stamper which is radiation heated by infrared rays radiated from the light source; a cooling member which cools the stamper by contacting the stamper which is radiation heated; a first mold which holds the stamper and/or the cooling member in a movable manner, thereby enabling the stamper and the cooling member to be in contact with or remote from with each other; and a second mold which holds a thermoplastic resin to which a structure of a shape-forming surface of the stamper is transferred. The stamper is radiation heated at least in the state where it is remote from the cooling member. |
| US09211669B2 |
Injection mould component for preforms made of plastic material
An injection mould component for moulding the outer surface of a preform neck, which allows improved cooling of the preform neck inside the mould, while at the same time reducing the mould cycle time. A related production process of said injection mould component, which allows the section of the cooling channels to be optimised, determining a more effective cooling, is also described. |
| US09211667B2 |
Method and device for molding soft and thin resin molded product
The present invention relates to a method and a device for molding a soft and thin resin molded product, in which molten resin is injected into a molding space between a concave mold and a convex mold to mold the soft and thin resin molded product. The convex mold or the concave mold is opened while the soft and thin resin molded product is left in the concave mold in such a way as to become open in its concave-shaped portion. Then, at least two chuck tabs formed outside the concave-shaped portion of the soft and thin resin molded product left in the concave mold are each held by a chuck of a molded product removing machine, and the concave-shaped portion of the soft and thin resin molded product is supported by a support arm of the molded product removing machine. |
| US09211660B2 |
Adjustable support for preformed mold
An adjustable support is used to support a preformed mold in a molding operation. The adjustable support includes an aggregate or particulate material that in a now stressed or reduced stress state is flowable to allow shaping thereof to effectively support a back face of the preformed mold. The adjustable support is then jammed to rigidify or fix the shape thereby effectively supporting the preformed mold. The adjustable support is changed from an adjustable state to a support state preferably by applying a vacuum pressure to the aggregate material. In the adjustable state an airflow can be introduced to the aggregate material to allow movement and/or displacement of the material. |
| US09211656B2 |
System and method of removing beads from tires
A system and method for removing steel beads from large diameter tires by lifting a tire into a position adjacent an extraction hook and a pair of stripping dyes. The hook is positioned adjacent the tire bead and is then withdrawn through a narrow opening in the stripping dyes, which removes the bead from the tire. The machine is capable of removing both rubber-encased inner beads from the tire without repositioning the tire within the system. A plurality of lifting platforms position the tire and the stripping mechanisms with respect to one another throughout the extraction process. |
| US09211653B2 |
Method to produce a translucent layer composite construction element with integrated front plate
Method for producing a heat insulating, light conducting multilayer composite construction element for facades of building structures and the like, in which the multilayer composite construction element consists of at least one layer of a curable casting compound and at least one heat insulating layer of insulating material, and all layers are penetrated by light conducting elements, whereby a.) in a first process step the light conducting elements are fixed in an insulating body forming the heat insulating layer, b.) in a second step the light conducting elements fixed in the insulating body are inserted in a formwork space of a formwork formed by formwork panels and c.) in a third step the formwork space is filled with a curable casting compound, forming at least one support layer, whereby b1.) the formwork panels used in the second step are designed as permanent (“lost”) formwork elements consisting of facade panels provided with drill holes or recesses, in which the front sides of the light conducting elements are received at least partially. |
| US09211652B2 |
Apparatus and method for producing layered mats
The invention relates to an apparatus for forming a layered mat of non-oriented particles in a particle board production process, comprising first rollers for size-fractionating a continuous stream of particles into a first and a second fraction; second rollers arranged lower than the first rollers, to receive the first fraction, the second rollers being capable of further size-fractionating said first fraction; and third rollers arranged lower than the second rollers, for receiving said second fraction, the third rollers being capable for further size-fractionating said second fraction; the apparatus further comprising a receiving surface, movable along a longitudinal dimension of the apparatus, and arranged to receive said fractionated first fraction and said fractionated second fraction from said second and third rollers, at different longitudinal positions; wherein the first rollers and the third rollers are pin-type rollers. |
| US09211651B2 |
Slicing guide
A slicing guide includes a shell including a first side wall and an opposing second side wall, a first door received in the shell between the first side wall and a second side wall, and a base or spring connected with the shell. The base, the spring or the shell biases or urges the first door toward the second side wall. |
| US09211649B1 |
Knife with folding guard
A guard for a folding knife which guard protects the fingers of the user when the blade is open. The guards may be lifted by the movement of the blade by a link, spring, lifting pin, gears, underside of the blade or hooked by thumb stud or back of blade or by a flipping motion due to the contour of the handles. The guards may be of various shapes and may be recessed in an out-of-the-way position when the blade is closed. The guards may extend at opposite sides of the blade and opposite sides of the handle. The guards are adaptable to a wide variety of folding knife styles. |
| US09211645B2 |
Apparatus and method for selecting lasting feeling of machine
An optimal behavior combination of a robot in consideration of the robot's previous feeling is generated. In other words, the robot may express its feelings by combinations of its behavioral express elements which reflect its previous feelings. In particular, it has a continuity determination unit for determining whether a behavior to be expressed should be same as or different from a currently expressed behavior. |
| US09211644B1 |
System and method for instructing a device
A system and method of instructing a device is disclosed. The system includes a signal source for providing at least one visual signal where the at least one visual signal is substantially indicative of at least one activity to be performed by the device. A visual signal capturing element captures the at least one visual signal and communicates the at least one visual signal to the device where the device interprets the at least one visual signal and performs the activity autonomously and without requiring any additional signals or other information from the signal source. |
| US09211643B1 |
Automatic in-situ registration and calibration of robotic arm/sensor/workspace system
Various technologies described herein pertain to automatic in-situ calibration and registration of a depth sensor and a robotic arm, where the depth sensor and the robotic arm operate in a workspace. The robotic arm can include an end effector. A non-parametric technique for registration between the depth sensor and the robotic arm can be implemented. The registration technique can utilize a sparse sampling of the workspace (e.g., collected during calibration or recalibration). A point cloud can be formed over calibration points and interpolation can be performed within the point cloud to map coordinates in a sensor coordinate frame to coordinates in an arm coordinate frame. Such technique can automatically incorporate intrinsic sensor parameters into transformations between the depth sensor and the robotic arm. Accordingly, an explicit model of intrinsics or biases of the depth sensor need not be utilized. |
| US09211640B2 |
Teaching device for robot, robot apparatus, method of controlling teaching device for robot, and control program of teaching device for robot
In a teaching device for robot that moves a flexible body holding unit holding a flexible body and performs teaching of a fitting task of the flexible body to a thing to generate teaching data, a reaching decision unit decides that a front end of the flexible body reaches the thing, a curvature acquiring unit acquires information of evaluation of a degree of curvature of the flexible body when the reaching decision unit decides the reaching, and a notification unit performs predetermined notification about teaching on the basis of the acquired information of evaluation. |
| US09211638B2 |
Resilient ring-shaped clip installation method and apparatus
Disclosed herein is an installation method and apparatus for installing a resilient ring-shaped clip into engagement with a recess of a recipient channel. The apparatus generally comprises a clip delivery structure having a delivery channel formed therein and comprising an input for receiving the clip, a converging portion for radially biasing the clip, and an output for delivering the radially biased clip to the recipient channel. A clip stabilization mechanism may also be present for stabilizing the clip in the delivery channel, and for disengaging the clip upon application of an axial force to the clip that results in its passage through the delivery channel. Also disclosed is a clip delivery mechanism for displacing a clip through such a delivery channel and the recipient channel until engagement of the clip with the recess, wherein the clip stabilization mechanism disengages upon axial displacement of the clip by the clip delivery mechanism. |
| US09211636B2 |
Power tool having rotary input control
A power tool includes a housing, an output member that rotates about a longitudinal axis, and a motor drivably connected to the output member. A rotational motion sensor is arranged in the housing and operable to detect a user input that includes a rotational motion of the housing in a desired rotational direction about the longitudinal axis of the output member. A controller is configured to receive a first input indicative of a user-desired rotational motion of the output member, and a second input, from the rotational motion sensor, indicative of an actual rotational motion of the power tool. The controller determines a user-desired rotational direction of the output member about the axis from the first input, determines an actual rotational direction of the housing about the axis from the second input, and causes the motor to drive the output member to simulate ratcheting movement in the user-desired rotational direction. |
| US09211635B2 |
Self-adjusting bar clamp
A self-adjusting bar clamp includes a body defining an elongated channel and an actuating lever pivotally coupled to the body and movable between an open position and a closed position. An elongated bar is carried by the body for reciprocal sliding movement therethrough. A self-adjusting toggle mechanism carried by the body includes a locking element carried by the bar and an element pivotally coupled to the actuating lever. A cam element is pivotally coupled between the element and the locking element. The cam element is movable between a first condition permitting movement and a second condition. A biasing member biases the locking element in a first direction. |
| US09211634B2 |
Abrasive articles including abrasive particles bonded to an elongated substrate body having a barrier layer, and methods of forming thereof
An abrasive article including a substrate in the form of an elongated member having a core and a barrier layer in direct contact with an peripheral surface of the core. The barrier layer consists essentially of tin. A bonding layer is overlying the elongated substrate and abrasive particles are secured in the bonding layer. |
| US09211626B2 |
Semiconductor device and grinding method of semiconductor device
A semiconductor device includes a semiconductor chip, and a grinding-processed layer laminated on one surface of the semiconductor chip. Further, the semiconductor device includes a sealing resin that seals the semiconductor chip and the grinding-processed layer; and a metal remaining-thickness checking portion provided adjacent to the grinding-processed layer, sealed by the sealing resin, and having a inclined plane that is inclined with respect to a laminating direction of the grinding-processed layer. |
| US09211625B2 |
Sapphire substrate flattening method
A sapphire substrate flattening method including an ingot slicing step of slicing a sapphire single-crystal ingot to obtain a sapphire substrate, an annealing step of annealing the sapphire substrate, a wafer mounting step of mounting the sapphire substrate processed by the annealing step on a stage having a holding surface in the condition where a first surface of the sapphire substrate is in contact with the holding surface of the stage through a liquid resin, a resin curing step of curing the liquid resin, a first grinding step of grinding a second surface of the sapphire substrate opposite to the first surface, a resin removing step of removing the liquid resin cured on the first surface of the sapphire substrate, and a second grinding step of grinding the first surface of the sapphire substrate. |
| US09211621B2 |
Machining apparatus
A frame defines a workpiece-transfer station, a machining station, and a tool station all centered on a common vertical plane. A carousel in the tool station carries a plurality of tools having shanks. A slide movable vertically and horizontally in the plane carries a tool head rotatable about a vertical axis itself having a tool socket adapted to fit shanks of the tools and a workpiece grab. This tool head can move horizontally in the plane to pick up and drop off tools and move workpieces between the transfer and the machining station, and can also move vertically during machining of a workpiece rotating in the machining station. |
| US09211620B2 |
Hand power tool having a drum-type tool change magazine
A hand power tool has a tool receiver which is configured to receive a tool and which has an inner receiver. The tool receiver is provided on an associated tool housing, in which there is disposed a drum-type tool change magazine having at least one tool chamber for storing the tool. The tool chamber is configured to be aligned so as to be flush with the inner receiver to enable the tool to slide from the tool chamber into the inner receiver or from the inner receiver into the tool chamber. A braking device is configured to brake the tool as the tool slides from the tool chamber into the inner receiver. |
| US09211619B2 |
Method and machine tool for machining a workpiece
Embodiments of the present invention relate to a method and machine tool for machining a workpiece on the machine tool comprising at least 5 axes with a tool by using an NC program, the machine tool comprising a clamp for clamping a workpiece and a work spindle including a tool holder for holding a workpiece. The workpiece is clamped on the tool holder of the work spindle of the machine tool, the tool is clamped in the clamp of the machine tool, and the workpiece clamped in the tool holder of the work spindle is controlled in a program-controlled manner in relation to the tool clamped in the clamp for removing material from the workpiece. |
| US09211607B2 |
Device for simultaneously processing the circumference of a workpiece with laser beams
A device for simultaneously processing a circumference of a workpiece includes a plurality of laser-lens modules and a waveguide. The modules each include a diode laser and a lens system and is configured to emit a laser beam radially in a shared radiation plane. The waveguide includes a lower part and an upper part that together form a cavity enclosing the radiation plane. The laser-lens modules are configured so that the laser is reflected repeatedly between a bottom surface and a cover surface and propagates in an unaffected manner within the radiation plane so as to form a beam spot that strikes the workpiece with a homogeneous energy distribution. The beam spot has a height based on a distance between the surfaces and a width based on a divergence angle in the radiation plane and a distance of the module from the workpiece surface. |
| US09211604B2 |
Resistance welding method and resistance welding jig
In resistance welding, an end portion and a flange portion are welded together at contact surfaces thereof by applying a voltage between a first electrode and a second electrode while an inner casing and a main metal piece are pressed in directions toward each other. When a shearing stress due to the pressure is applied to a ceramic guide pin, the guide pin is more resistant to wear compared to a phenolic resin guide pin. In addition, a clearance is between a large-diameter portion of the guide pin and an inner surface of a guide-pin insertion hole. Accordingly, the guide pin is capable of tilting in the radial direction, so that the guide pin can tilt so as to partially absorb the shearing stress. Therefore, the guide pin is more resistant to breakage compared to a guide pin made of ceramic that is not capable of tilting. |
| US09211585B2 |
Plate fixing structure and plate
The invention provides a plate-fixing structure designed for use with a sliding nozzle device to fix a plate to a plate-receiving metal frame. The plate-fixing structure is usable in a concavo-convex fitting technique with respect to fitting a convex or concave portion of a plate to a corresponding convex or concave portion of a plate-receiving metal frame to easily achieve alignment between the convex or concave portion of the plate and the corresponding convex or concave portion of the plate-receiving metal frame. A plate for use with the plate-fixing structure is also provided. |
| US09211584B2 |
Water jacket core
A water jacket core (10) includes a base part (11) and is provided with an intermediate female thread part (15) in that base within a region surrounded by tangent lines (18, 19) that are parallel to a center line (17) passing through the centers of a plurality of bore pin insertion bores (12) for forming cylinder bores and are in contact with the bore pin insertion bores and by an intermediate position for the adjacent bore pin insertion bores. |
| US09211582B2 |
Clamp ring and method for manufacturing a clamp ring
A clamp ring and process for manufacturing a clamp ring to effectively reduce, if not eliminate, waste scrap from the manufacturing process. The clamp ring and process for manufacturing the same, results in clamp ring having a seam formed by a metal joining technique such as welding, brazing, bolting, soldering, and clinching. |
| US09211579B2 |
Method of producing L-shaped product
A method of producing an L-shaped product (10) which includes an L-shaped flat top wall (12), an inside wall (14) extending and connected along an inside edge (12c) of the top wall, and an outside wall (16) extending and connected along an outside edge (12d) of the top wall, each of the inside and outside walls being terminated by flange (18, 20) substantially parallel to the top wall, is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of: providing sheet metal material; providing a drawing die assembly; and stamping the sheet metal material by the drawing die assembly to produce an intermediate product. The method further comprises the steps of: providing a bending die assembly; and stamping the intermediate product by the bending die assembly to produce an L-shaped product completed. |
| US09211577B2 |
Extrusion press for making profiles of nonferrous metal
An extrusion press for making profiles of nonferrous metal has a ram, a hydraulic piston/cylinder assembly for moving the ram, a pump connected to the assembly for pressurizing same, and an electric motor connected to the pump for driving same. A multiphase source of electricity is connected via a controller to the electric motor for a soft start of the motor. |
| US09211572B2 |
System and method for sanitizing pneumatic conveying piping
A system and method for sanitizing pneumatic conveying piping is provided. The system includes a motorized hose reel with a pig attached to the end of the hose. The pig is smaller in diameter than the inner diameter of the pipe through which it is conveyed. The decreased size of the pig keeps the conveying speed of the pig through the pipes down, while at the same time providing sufficient force to pull the supply hose attached to the pig through the pipes with the pig. The pig of some embodiments of the inventive concept is shaped as a hollow cone or frustoconical shape. Such a shape reduces weight of the pig and also allows the hose to be inserted through the body of the pig with a spray nozzle at the end. The hollow cone shape deflects relatively easily to allow the pig to go around corners or other obstructions. Also, such a pig design automatically centers the nozzle within the pipe during spraying. The pig of some embodiments is further made of a urethane material that is easily washable and non-porous to maximize sanitary conditions. |
| US09211566B2 |
Method of preparing opto-electronic device
A method is provided to produce an opto-electronic device comprising a substrate, a first electrode layer, a second electrode layer of opposite polarity to said first electrode layer, any interlayers and, between said first and second electrode layers, a first functional material in interfacial contact with a second functional material, wherein the first functional material has the structure of a laterally porous film and the second functional material is a film disposed over and interpenetrating with the film of the first functional material. |
| US09211564B2 |
Methods of fabricating a layer of metallic glass-based material using immersion and pouring techniques
Systems and methods in accordance with embodiments of the invention implement layers of metallic glass-based materials. In one embodiment, a method of fabricating a layer of metallic glass includes: applying a coating layer of liquid phase metallic glass to an object, the coating layer being applied in a sufficient quantity such that the surface tension of the liquid phase metallic glass causes the coating layer to have a smooth surface; where the metallic glass has a critical cooling rate less than 1000 K/s; and cooling the coating layer of liquid phase metallic glass to form a layer of solid phase metallic glass. |
| US09211559B2 |
Dispensers
Pump dispenser, particularly a movable-nozzle pump dispenser, is intended especially for use in dispensing oral medicines e.g. to children. One feature disclosed is a tooth or ratchet structure engageable between the plunger head and the pump cylinder body. This enables optional holding of the plunger at an intermediate position during a dispensing stroke, so that a dose can be given bit by bit. Other proposals are formations around the top of the cylinder body which interact with the inside of the plunger to control or limit movement of the plunger according to their relative rotational orientation. For example the plunger may be locked up unless turned forcibly past a rotational stop. A related feature is a spring lock tab preventing rotation of the plunger unless the tab is pressed to release it. The product container may contain balls to cause agitation. |
| US09211557B2 |
Spray dispenser
A spray dispenser is provided, the spray dispenser comprising a container for holding a liquid to be dispensed and a dispensing assembly for extracting liquid from said container, the dispensing assembly comprising a pressure-relief valve for release of excessive pressure in the container and a filter arranged to permit egress of gas through the filter, inhibit egress of liquid from the container and to inhibit ingress of contaminants into the container through the pressure relief valve. A dispensing assembly for use is a spray dispenser is also provided. |
| US09211555B2 |
Device for spraying and/or mixing fluids in proximity to a surface
The invention relates to an applicator tip for spraying and/or mixing at least two fluids that react together, the tip comprising: at least two fluid conduits for carrying the at least two fluids, each conduit having at least one outlet opening, the openings are positioned substantially on a same plane; at least two gas conduits for carrying a gas volume, each gas conduit comprises a proximal gas tube and a distal gas tube, each distal gas tube is bent as compared to the position of the proximal gas tube, and each distal gas tube has one gas opening positioned distal from the plane of the outlet openings; and a housing for accommodating the at least two fluid conduits and the at least two gas conduits. The device allows efficient spraying in close proximity to a surface. |
| US09211552B2 |
Foam dispensing gun
A foam spray gun is illustrated in which a third hose is attached to the gun for the application of either a liquid or a gas. |
| US09211548B2 |
Apparatus for sample introduction, chip for sample introduction, and method for sample introduction
The present disclosure provides an apparatus for sample introduction including a flow channel, a sample inlet, a metering unit, a separating unit, cell dischargers and, and a pressure controlling unit. The sample inlet is given a sample fluid such as blood. The sample inlet has a constricting hole that communicates with the flow channel for passage of a carrier fluid. The constricting hole has a diameter large enough for passage of a single cell contained in the sample fluid. The sample fluid is introduced into the flow channel through the constricting hole, and the cells in the sample fluid pass one by one through the constricting hole. The constricting hole does not exist inside the flow channel for passage of the carrier fluid, so that the diameter of the constricting hole does not affect the flow rate of the carrier fluid passing through the flow channel. |
| US09211547B2 |
Classifier
A classifier including a housing, a body, a vane assembly, and an outlet. The housing extends along a longitudinal axis between opposing first and second ends, and includes a lower portion provided at the first end and including an inlet, an upper portion provided at the second end and including a reclaim outlet, and an intermediate portion provided between the upper and lower portions. The body is disposed within the housing that defines a chamber therebetween. The vane assembly includes a plurality of blades and is provided between an outer surface of the body and an inner surface of the intermediate portion dividing the chamber into first and second chambers. The outlet is provided at the second end and is fluidly connected to the second chamber to allow fine particles separated from coarse particles to flow through the outlet. The reclaim outlet is fluidly connected with the second chamber and a pulverizer to allow coarse particles separated from the fluid flow to be directed back to the pulverizer. |
| US09211545B2 |
System and method for reclaiming waste carpet materials
The present invention relates generally to the reclaiming of carpet waste material. More particularly, the invention relates to a method and system for reclaiming carpet components such as yarn, tufting primary, binder, and secondary backing from post-industrial and post-consumer carpet waste in a substantially continuous flow process. |
| US09211544B2 |
Organic shredder apparatus and method for operating an organic shredder
An apparatus and method is provided for organic material reduction and preparation for subsequent recycling or disposal in a self-contained system which is safe for equipment operators, and highly cost and floor-space efficient. The apparatus includes a preferably-shaped hopper for receiving organic materials to the reduced, preferably a floating auger, a solids pump and a macerator. The system preferably generates a processed organic material discharge with a particle size on the order of ⅛″ without concern as to the liquid content of the incoming organic material. The apparatus may be operated by a method which is completely automated following operator initiation, including automatically attempting self-clearing actions in the event of detecting clogs or jams in the processing components. |
| US09211542B2 |
High-density sample support plate for automated sample aliquoting
A sample support plate (100) for a variety of possible applications, including MALDI mass spectrometry, is disclosed. A plurality of spatially separated sample recipient sites (101) are arranged on the surface of a substrate. The recipient sites are mutually separated by areas having a different wettability than the recipient sites. They are arranged in a plurality of rows consisting of a plurality of recipient sites whose centers are regularly spaced along a first direction with a predetermined periodicity (D1), the rows being regularly spaced along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction with a predetermined centerline distance (D2). Each recipient site has a maximum lateral dimension that is preferably smaller than the diameter of a beam spot (104) of a desorption laser beam (103). In order to enable unsupervised splitting of bulk liquid samples into droplets at the sample recipient sites, the periodicity along the first direction and the centerline distance along the second direction are chosen such that each recipient sites has a next neighbor at a distance that is less than or equal to three times the minimum lateral dimension of each recipient site. In preferred embodiments, the sample recipient sites are arranged in a checkerboard-type pattern or in rows that are inclined relative to the edges of the sample support plate. |
| US09211538B2 |
Microfluid storage device
The invention relates to a microfluid storage device having at least one supply chamber (5) formed by bulging a film (7) or membrane (19), a target break point (10) for forming an opening in the supply chamber (5), and a transport path (9) leading from the supply chamber (5) to an opening (11) in the supply chamber, for example, an interface between the storage device and a microfluid processing unit (2). According to the invention, the initially closed transport path (9) may be opened to form a transport channel (15) corresponding to the fluid stream escaping from the supply chamber (5), preferably by the escaping fluid itself, which allows the fluid to be removed from the storage device in a bubble-free manner. |
| US09211535B2 |
Process for producing dispersion of particles of rutile titanium oxide
The invention provides a process for producing an aqueous dispersion of particles of rutile titanium oxide, which comprises: a first step in which after a chloride ion concentration of an aqueous solution of titanium tetrachloride is adjusted to 0.5 mole/L or more and less than 4.4 mole/L, the aqueous solution of titanium tetrachloride is heated at a temperature in a range of from 25° C. to 75° C. to hydrolyze the titanium tetrachloride, thereby obtaining a slurry containing the thus precipitated particles of rutile titanium oxide; a second step in which the slurry obtained in the first step is filtered and washed with water to remove water-soluble salts dissolved therein from the slurry; a third step in which the slurry obtained in the second step is subjected to a hydrothermal reaction in the presence of an organic acid; a fourth step in which the slurry obtained in the third step is filtered and washed with water to remove water-soluble salts dissolved therein from the slurry; a fifth step in which an acid is added to the slurry obtained in the fourth step to deflocculate the slurry, and the resulting slurry is subjected to wet dispersion treatment, thereby obtaining a dispersion; and a sixth step in which excess acid and water-soluble salts are removed from the dispersion obtained in the fifth step. |
| US09211534B2 |
Metalloporphyrin complex, manufacturing process therefor and carbon dioxide fixation catalyst therefrom, as well as process for manufacturing cyclic carbonate
There is provided a metalloporphyrin complex represented by general formula (1): wherein M is a metal; A1 to A4 are independently of each other a substituent represented by general formula (2): -D-E+X− (2) wherein D is a divalent organic group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms; E+ is a quaternary ammonium group or quaternary phosphonium group having 3 to 60 carbon atoms; and X is a halogen atom. There is thus provided a metalloporphyrin complex which, when used as a carbon dioxide fixation catalyst, exhibits high catalytic activity, has a small environmental burden and can be easily synthesized. |
| US09211532B2 |
Catalyst for the hydrogenation of unsaturated compounds
Homogeneous catalyst based on titanium compounds of the type (R1Cp)(R2Cp)Ti(PhOR3)2, where Cp is a cyclopentadienyl group, R1 and R2 are identical or different alkyl radicals (C3-C10), Ph is a phenyl group and OR3 is an alkoxyl group. Moreover, the invention relates to the use of said catalyst in a method for the hydrogenation of double bonds in unsaturated compounds, preferably polymers and/or copolymers of conjugated dienes, under mild reaction conditions. |
| US09211529B2 |
Conversion of ethanol to a reaction product comprising 1-butanol using hydroxyapatite catalysts
Catalytic processes to produce a reaction product comprising 1-butanol by contacting a reactant comprising ethanol with a catalyst composition under suitable reaction conditions are provided. The catalyst composition may comprise a hydroxyapatite of the Formula (MwM′xM″yM′″z)5(PO4)3(OH), wherein M is Mg; M′ is Ca; M″ is Sr; M′″ is Ba; w is any number between 0 and 1 inclusive; x is any number from 0 to less than 0.5; y is any number between 0 and 1 inclusive; z is any number between 0 and 1 inclusive; and w+x+y+z=1. Base-treated catalyst compositions may be used. Also provided are processes for contacting an initial catalyst composition comprising the hydroxyapatite with a base to produce a base-treated catalyst composition, and the base-treated catalyst compositions so obtained. |
| US09211521B2 |
Fluidic channel coated with metal catalysts and devices and methods relating thereto
The invention provides a method for coating fluidic channels, particularly millifluidic channels, with a catalyst coating having controlled dimensions and morphology, and methods for preparing such channels, and devices that can be used in combination with the channels. The invention further provides portable, hand-held millifluidic devices applicable for a wide variety of uses including molecular reduction reactions, in situ material characterization, in situ reaction catalysis characterization, in situ reaction mechanism characterization, nanomaterial synthesis, nanostructured metal and metal oxide growth and coating of channels, continuous flow cell culturing, enzymatic catalysis, biomolecular catalysis, combinatorial chemistry, reactions involving homogeneous catalysts bound to channel walls, peptide synthesis, nucleic acid synthesis, synthesis of pharmaceutical intermediates, biofunctionalization of nanomaterials or a combination thereof. |
| US09211520B2 |
Modular radiochemistry synthesis system
A modular chemical production system includes multiple modules for performing a chemical reaction, particularly of radiochemical compounds, from a remote location. One embodiment comprises a reaction vessel including a moveable heat source with the position thereof relative to the reaction vessel being controllable from a remote position. Alternatively the heat source may be fixed in location and the reaction vial is moveable into and out of the heat source. The reaction vessel has one or more sealing plugs, the positioning of which in relationship to the reaction vessel is controllable from a remote position. Also the one or more reaction vessel sealing plugs can include one or more conduits there through for delivery of reactants, gases at atmospheric or an elevated pressure, inert gases, drawing a vacuum and removal of reaction end products to and from the reaction vial, the reaction vial with sealing plug in position being operable at elevated pressures. The modular chemical production system is assembled from modules which can each include operating condition sensors and controllers configured for monitoring and controlling the individual modules and the assembled system from a remote position. Other modules include, but are not limited to a Reagent Storage and Delivery Module, a Cartridge Purification Module, a Microwave Reaction Module, an External QC/Analysis/Purification Interface Module, an Aliquotting Module, an F-18 Drying Module, a Concentration Module, a Radiation Counting Module, and a Capillary Reactor Module. |
| US09211518B2 |
Process and apparatus for production and filtration of aminoalcohols using a continuous stirred tank slurry reactor
Disclosed are processes and apparatuses for producing a reaction product and enabling the reaction product to be removed from a reactor operating at an elevated pressure, while simultaneously maintaining the gas pressure and retaining the catalyst inside the apparatus. |
| US09211514B2 |
Method and apparatus for producing paint
The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for producing an aqueous paint from a plurality of premixed compositions at the point of sale wherein the apparatus is cleaned during the paint production. The premixed compositions include a pigment composition, a dispersant-thickening agent composition, a high resin content binder, and a low resin content binder. The dispersant-thickening agent, when supplied in a cleaning amount, effectively cleans the nozzles and valves, used to supply the premixed compositions to a receiving reservoir for the desired aqueous paint. |
| US09211513B1 |
Handheld shaker assembly
A handheld shaker assembly for mixing a container of fluid includes a cylindrical holder that may insertably receive the container of fluid. A tubular housing is operationally coupled to the cylindrical holder. A motor is operationally coupled to the tubular housing. A primary gear is operationally coupled to the motor so the motor rotates the primary gear. A secondary gear is operationally coupled to the tubular housing. The secondary gear engages the primary gear so the primary gear rotates the secondary gear. A cam shaft is operationally coupled to the secondary gear so the secondary gear rotates the cam shaft. A first and second linkage are operationally coupled to the cam shaft so the cam shaft moves the first and second linkage. The second linkage engages the cylindrical holder so the second linkage moves the cylindrical holder. An actuator is coupled to the tubular housing to actuate the motor. |
| US09211512B2 |
Microfluidic apparatus and method of enriching target cells by using the same
A microfluidic apparatus capable of being mounted on a rotation driving unit. When mounted on the rotation driving unit and rotated, a fluid flow is induced in the apparatus due to a centrifugal force. the microfluidic apparatus includes a sample supplying unit that comprises a sample chamber to house a sample and provides a fluid including a target material in which fine beads are bound to a target cell in the sample; a density-gradient separation unit that houses a density gradient material with a lower density than the target material, and receives the fluid from the sample supplying unit to separate the target material from the fluid based on a density difference; a fluid supplying channel connecting the sample supplying unit to the density-gradient separation unit to form a passage of the fluid; and a fluid supplying valve provided to the fluid supplying channel to selectively allow a flow of the fluid. |
| US09211511B2 |
Magnetic attachment system for securing vessels to a shaker
A magnetic attachment system for securing vessels to a shaker includes a base having an upper side and a lower side; a plurality of flanges on the upper side of the base, each flange having an arm that extends away from the base and engages with the vessel so that the arms retain the vessel to the base; and a magnet on the lower side of the base that magnetically attaches the base to the platform, thereby releasably retaining the vessel to the platform. Each flange may be repositioned at a common distance from the center of the base to accommodate different sizes of vessel. |
| US09211510B2 |
Method for producing nanoparticles by forced ultrathin film rotary processing
The present invention provides a method for producing nanoparticles, which comprises maintaining a minute space of 1 mm or less between two processing surfaces capable of approaching to and separating from each other and being rotating relative to each other, allowing the minute space maintained between the two processing surfaces to serve as a flow path of a processed fluid thereby forming a forced thin film of the processed fluid and separating nanoparticles in the forced thin film. |
| US09211508B2 |
Polybenzoxazole membranes from self-cross-linkable aromatic polyimide membranes
A method of making a polybenzoxazole (PBO) membrane from a self-cross-linked aromatic polyimide polymer membrane is provided. These membranes are useful in the separation of gas mixtures and liquid mixtures. The PBO membrane is made by fabricating a self-cross-linkable aromatic polyimide polymer membrane comprising both hydroxyl functional groups and carboxylic acid functional groups; cross-linking the polymer to form a self-cross-linked aromatic polyimide polymer membrane by heating the membrane at 250° to 300° C. under an inert atmosphere; and thermal heating the self-cross-linked aromatic polyimide polymer membrane at a temperature from about 350° to 500° C. under an inert atmosphere to convert the self-cross-linked aromatic polyimide polymer membrane into a PBO membrane. A membrane coating step may be added by coating the selective layer surface of the PBO membrane with a thin layer of high permeability material. |
| US09211505B2 |
Use of a functionalized mineral filler for chemically stabilizing a polymer, membrane thus stabilized, process for preparing same and uses thereof
The present invention concerns the use of at least one mineral filler functionalized by at least one group comprising at least one sulfur atom for chemically stabilizing a polymer matrix and/or for increasing the durability thereof. The present invention also concerns a membrane such as an ion exchange membrane and in particular a proton exchange membrane thus stabilized, its method of preparation and uses thereof. |
| US09211503B2 |
Preparation method of perfluorinated polymer hollow fiber membrane
A preparation method of a perfluorinated polymer hollow fiber membrane comprises: evenly mixing a first mixture that is mixed by a perfluorinated polymer, PS, a polymer additive, and a composite pore-forming agent; evenly mixing a second mixture that is mixed by the first mixture and an organic liquid; under 300° C.-350° C., processing the second mixture with a melt to spin by a twin-screw extruder; extruding a hollow fiber by a hollow fiber spinneret; dipping the hollow fiber membrane into deionized water for 48 hours; putting the hollow fiber membrane aired into a concentrated sulfuric acid to process with a sulfonation; washing the hollow fiber membrane by deionized water; and drying the hollow fiber membrane; in such a manner that the hydrophilic perfluorinated polymer hollow fiber membrane is obtained. |
| US09211498B2 |
Functional desiccants
A device includes a desiccant and an enclosure having an interior surrounding the desiccant. The enclosure may include a moisture vapor permeable membrane with a moisture permeability sufficient to pass moisture from outside the enclosure to the desiccant. The device may further include a functional device within the enclosure having processing circuitry to perform at least one function associated with the desiccant. |
| US09211496B2 |
Absorbent, CO2 or H2S reducing apparatus, and CO2 or H2S reducing method using absorbent
An absorbent according to the present invention absorbs CO2 or H2S contained in flue gas emitted from a power generating plant such as a thermal plant, and contains three or more amine compounds selected from linear or cyclic amine compounds having a primary amino group, and linear or cyclic amine compounds having a secondary amino group. By way of a synergetic effect of the mixture of these compounds, the absorption speed of CO2 or H2S absorption is improved. A small amount of CO2 contained in a large amount of boiler flue gas can be absorbed efficiently. |
| US09211485B2 |
Method for producing crystalline active ingredient particles
A method and device for producing crystalline active ingredient particles. The active ingredient is crystallized from a supersaturated solution on the surface of particles of the active ingredient. A suspension of active ingredient particles is subjected to wet grinding in a supersaturated solution of the active ingredient in a first module. At least a part of the suspension is fed from the first module into the second module where it is cooled and simultaneously subjected to ultrasound. The suspension is fed back into the first module after cooling and being subjected to ultrasound. Active ingredient solution and optionally antisolvent are added to the suspension and active ingredient particles and liquid phase are extracted. A relative supersaturation of the active ingredient in the liquid phase of the suspension, relative to the entire liquid phase, is ≦90%, and the extracted active ingredient particles comprise a mean particle size of 10-500 μm. |
| US09211484B2 |
Plant for recovering degraded heat transfer oil from a solar thermal facility and method for said recovery
The present invention relates to a plan and a process for regenerating degraded heat transfer oil. The plant includes a distillation column for separating heavy components. The distillation column has an upper part and a lower part, the upper part having: a first inlet for receiving degraded oil, and a head having a first outlet for expelling light component vapor. The plant also includes a rectifier, for receiving the vapor, and having: an upper part having a second outlet for expelling light components; and a lower part having a third outlet for expelling regenerated oil. The distillation column further includes a fourth outlet for letting heavy components out in the lower part of the distillation column, a pressure transmitter at the first inlet, a pressure and temperature transmitter at the first outlet, temperature transmitters inside the distillation column, level switches, an automatic valve at the fourth outlet, and an electric resistance for maintaining the oil in a liquid state. |
| US09211483B2 |
Low temperature production of 2-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene
Disclosed is a method for the production of 1233xf comprising the continuous low temperature liquid phase reaction of 1,1,1,2,3-pentachloropropane and anhydrous HF, without the use of a catalyst, wherein the reaction takes place in one or more reaction vessels, each one in succession converting a portion of the original reactants fed to the lead reaction vessel and wherein the reactions are run in a continuous fashion. |
| US09211482B2 |
Methods and apparatus for purifying liquid using regenerating heat exchange
A method and apparatus for liquid purification using regenerating heat exchange are disclosed. An apparatus, in one embodiment, includes a liquid receptacle, a heat exchanger, a heating mechanism, a compressor, and a condenser. While the liquid receptacle is able to receive a stream of liquid such as water, a heat exchanger pushes the liquid through the heat exchanger to increase temperature of the liquid. The heating mechanism is capable of facilitating phase transition of the liquid from liquid to vapor. The compressor is operable to guide the vapor and the condenser is configured to condense the vapor into liquid or purified liquid. |
| US09211479B2 |
Doll having fastening surface head with interchangeable hair sections
An interchangeable hair doll for enabling a plurality of different hair styles, textures, and colors to be worn as releasably attached hair parts comprises a modified doll head and a plurality of discrete hair parts which employ a hook and loop fastener. The modified doll head includes a hair fastening surface defined by a layer of a hook component material which covers the entire scalp area of the head. Each individual hair part includes three discrete hair tracks permanently attached at one end to one side of a fastening strip in a bottom up, sequential orientation so as to obscure from view the side of the fastening strip to which the hair tracks are attached. The other side of the fastening strip defined by layer of a loop component material. The loop component enables the hair parts to be removably attached to any area of the hair fastening surface. |
| US09211478B1 |
Cheering device grip
A cheering device includes an upper head portion resembling an upper jaw and head of an animal and a lower head portion resembling a lower jaw and head of an animal. Each of the upper and lower head portions has a back side having a hand receiving well therein. The lower head portion has a planar upper surface and the upper head portion has a planar lower surface. Each of the upper and lower portions may be positioned on a person's hands and the upper surface of the lower head portion struck against the lower surface of the upper head portion to create an audible sound. |
| US09211477B1 |
Folding trapdoor drop mechanism
A trapdoor mechanism and method of providing a trapdoor mechanism for initiating descent into a slide ride is disclosed. Aspects of invention are directed to an trapdoor mechanism utilizes a folding and unfolding support structure so that the folding of the trap door provides a platform to stand on and the unfolding provides an opening into a slide. Embodiments of the trapdoor drop amusement mechanism utilize a downward and unfolding motion instead of rotary swing motion to remove the trap door from the ride path. A control device may be utilized to apply force to the trapdoor during its transit between the open position and closed position. This apparatus allows for less deck foot print area as no trap door swing thru or large shock absorber that is normally required to dissipate the large amount of energy stored in a heavy rotating trap. |
| US09211474B2 |
Online card games using multiple online player preferences
A method, computer system, and computer program product to assign player-entries in an online card game. The method commences by receiving preference parameters corresponding to a player, then receiving a player command corresponding to the player to fold out of a current hand of a particular game. For alacrity of play and for supporting a large number of concurrently open tables for an online player to play a large number of games, the method proceeds to identify an open table that satisfies player preference parameters, and wherein the open table is an open table (e.g., with fewer player-entries than the open table's capacity). The preferred game and/or the player's preferred seating arrangement can be determined by using a second preference parameter. The method can respond to a fold-out command by the player and can open a new table on the basis of the player's preference parameters. |
| US09211466B2 |
Pivotable boom golf swing improvement device
A golf swing practice and improvement device and system or process is disclosed for better training the golfing enthusiast to make straighter shots when hitting a golf ball, without hooking or slicing the ball. The device of the invention is provided with an adjustable boom assembly supported to provide three-dimensional positioning to a head guide subassembly attached to the boom assembly and used by the Golfer for proper stance and head position. The head guide is provided so that it can be placed from a frontal position at lateral or side portions of a golfer's head to guide and keep the head in position relative to the golf ball while the golfer is making their golf club swing to the golf ball. The boom assembly is made to be withdrawn frontally from the golfer's head just after the golfer makes contact in swinging their golf club with the ball. In so doing the golfer moves or trips a leg movement sensing switch of the invention providing power to a triggering assembly, when following through with the golf shot, thus providing an activating force or signal to move the head guide assembly away from the golfer's head, while permitting the golfer to make a natural follow-through with their swinging club after hitting the golf ball. |
| US09211463B2 |
Body position feedback apparatus
A body positioning feedback apparatus is securable to a foot or other body part for which it is beneficial to ensure proper alignment between body parts. The body positioning feedback apparatus may be implemented as a mechanical device or as an electronic device that provides visual, audio, and/or tactile feedback when the user is employing improper form. As a particular non-limiting example, the body positioning feedback apparatus can be used to assist users in performing stationary or walking lunges and single-legged and two-legged squats. |
| US09211457B2 |
Golf-club protective cover having an opening and closing holder for protecting a golf club
Disclosed herein is a golf-club protective cover having an opening and closing holder for protecting a golf club. The protective cover includes a main body having a pair of opening and closing plates that have a semi-circular section to receive a shaft of the golf club and a hinged joint portion on an end thereof so as to be hinged to each other, with a coil spring provided on the hinged joint portion to elastically bias the main body in a closing direction. A locking part is secured to one of the pair of opening and closing plates of the main body, thus locking or unlocking the opening and closing plates. The protective cover can reduce the number of manufacturing processes, simplify manufacturing work, and reduce labor. Further, a shape frame corresponding to each of golf clubs with various shapes is mounted to the main body. |
| US09211454B2 |
Golf club shaft
Provided is a golf club shaft. When a distance from a front end of the shaft to a center of gravity of the shaft is LG and when a full length of the shaft is LS, 0.54≦LG/LS≦0.65 is satisfied. A shaft weight is not larger than 55 g, and a torque value is not higher than 6.5. |
| US09211453B1 |
Golf club head with adjustable center of gravity
A golf club head comprising multiple means of adjusting the location of the center of gravity, and the bias, is disclosed herein. In a preferred embodiment, the golf club head comprises a non-metal medallion comprising a channel that is affixed to one of the crown and the sole, a slidable weight sized to fit within the channel, and a cover that attaches to the medallion and locks the slidable weight within the channel at a location selected by a user. The cover preferably includes at least one cutout so that the slidable weight is at least partially visible to the user when it is locked within the channel. The cover also includes additional cutouts that receive protrusions extending from the medallion to more securely attach the cover to the medallion. |
| US09211451B1 |
Weighted golf club head
A golf club head having a center of gravity located at a point close to the face and the sole is disclosed herein. In particular, the golf club head comprises a hollow body including a weight lip and face component, and the weight lip extends from the sole inside the body towards the face component without making contact with the face component. The golf club head is preferably an iron-type golf club head. In other embodiments, the golf club head, which may be an iron-type golf club head, comprises a weight bar disposed within the hollow body proximate the face component, and the weight bar bridges at least a portion of the sole. The weight bar may be movable within the hollow body to allow for center of gravity adjustment. |
| US09211449B2 |
Golf club head
A golf club (40) having a club head (42) with a face component (60), an aft body (61), and a sound modifying sole and crown design is disclosed herein. The face component, which may be composed of a metal material, (60) has a striking area portion (72) and a return portion (74). The aft-body (61), which may be composed of a non-metal material such as composite or thermoplastic material, is composed of a crown portion (62) and a sole portion (64). The sound modifying design, which may include deep pockets or pillars extending from the sole portion (64) to the crown portion (62), alters the sound of the golf club head (42) when it impacts a golf ball. |
| US09211448B2 |
Golf club head with flexure
A golf club head including a crown, a sole, a hosel, a face and a flexure. The face is configured to provide varying stiffness while minimizing the change in thickness across the face. The flexure provides compliance during an impact between the golf club head and a golf ball. |
| US09211442B2 |
Anti-slice golf ball construction
A golf ball has a cover and a core which is made as a single piece or of two or more parts (for example an inner core covered by an outer core or mantle layer). The ball has non-spherical aspects in at least some parts and may also have different specific gravities in different parts of the ball. The different shaped ball parts combined with the different specific gravities of the materials for different ball parts results in a differential between the moments of inertia of the different spin axes. The golf ball is spherical, but the inner layers are not necessarily completely spherical or symmetrical layers or parts. |
| US09211441B1 |
Inflatable swim fin apparatus
An inflatable swim fin apparatus includes a foot portion having a lower wall with a peripheral edge and having an upper wall extending upwardly from the peripheral edge of the lower wall, the lower wall and the upper wall defining a foot pocket and a rear opening allowing a user's foot to be received into the foot pocket. The swim fin apparatus includes a fin blade portion coupled to the upper wall of the foot portion, the fin blade portion including a bladder defining an interior space configured to hold a volume of air. |
| US09211438B2 |
Neck muscle exerciser and method of assessing neck muscle performance
Training neck muscles in such a way as to improve responsiveness to head acceleration forces, and to help prevent concussion and/or screen subjects who are at high risk of concussion, especially from contact sports, the neck muscles may be trained to improve strength and responsiveness to head acceleration. This may be accomplished by a device and/or method of training that incorporates an adjustable centripetal force about a fixed axis on the head. The centripetal force may be adjusted through varying the weight and/or length of a force arm. Neck muscle performance may be measured by the number of revolutions of the force arm completed over a pre-determined time period or the time required to complete a pre-determined number of revolutions of the force arm. |
| US09211435B2 |
Linear bearings and alignment method for weight lifting apparatus
A weight system having at least one weight stack moveable in a vertical direction on a lift rod, and a bearing block for housing a linear bearing. The invention further includes a method and apparatus for aligning the linear bearing. |
| US09211433B2 |
Swimming resistance trainer
A swimming resistance trainer including, for example, a frame assembly and a torso support structure attached to the frame assembly. The torso support structure includes a bench rail generally in parallel with a plurality of elongated slide rails of the frame assembly. The torso support structure also includes a bench assembly slidably attached to the bench rail and positioned to elevate a user's torso generally above the bench rail. The trainer further includes armrest mechanisms, a pair of arm resistance members elastically connecting corresponding armrest mechanisms to a portion of the frame assembly, and a pair of leg resistance members elastically connecting corresponding user's legs to a portion of the frame assembly proximate the rear side. The arm resistance members are positioned to resist sliding movement of the armrest mechanisms toward the rear side, and the leg resistance members are positioned to resist movement of the user's legs. |
| US09211432B1 |
Chair exercise systems
A chair-mounted exercise device to provide a more convenient means of exercising while in a seated position to enhance an individual's quality of life. A user attaches a chair-mounted exercise device to an office chair, dining chair, wheelchair, or the like and engages the handle of the device to perform exercises with various body members. A tubular casing encloses a resistance assembly that employs pulleys, a spring, a tensioning mechanism, and an elastic band to provide resistance to a user for the purpose of exercising. The chair-mounted exercise device is repositionable and easy to use. |
| US09211431B2 |
Exercise machine
An exercise machine for supporting a user during exercise includes a base and a platform assembly coupled to the base. The base is adapted to be supported on a floor and the platform assembly is mounted to the base so that the platform is supported above the floor. The platform assembly is configured to support a user performing an exercise. |
| US09211423B2 |
Radiotherapy treatment device comprising image acquisition device and irradiation device, and radiotherapy method
A radiotherapy treatment device comprising an image acquisition device, in particular a magnetic resonance device, an irradiation device comprising in particular a linear accelerator, and a patient positioning device having a patient positioning platform, wherein a movement device is provided for jointly moving the image acquisition device and the irradiation device between an irradiation position, in which a radiotherapeutic treatment of a patient located on the patient positioning platform is possible by means of the irradiation device, and an image acquisition position, in which an image acquisition of the patient located on the patient positioning platform is possible by means of the image acquisition device is provided. A radiotherapy method for treating an irradiation target in a patient by means of such a radiotherapy treatment device is also disclosed. |
| US09211421B2 |
Infant warming assembly with radiant heater and heater surface temperature sensor
An infant warming assembly includes a heater assembly having a heater surface temperature sensor, a skin temperature sensor, and a user interface to input a commanded skin temperature value. The skin temperature sensor and the commanded skin temperature value are used in controlling a temperature component of a control loop. The heater surface temperature sensor is used in controlling a power component of the control loop that powers the heater based at least in part upon the heater surface temperature sensor and a control signal from the temperature component. |
| US09211419B2 |
Treatments of disease or disorders using nanoparticles for focused hyperthermia to increase therapy efficacy
Methods are provided for the treatment of diseases and disorders using systematically-introduced nanoparticles to create a focused localized hyperthermia in a target area to enhance the effect of additional treatment therapies such as ionizing radiation. Advantages include an enhancement of the therapeutic effect of other therapies by increasing perfusion or reducing hypoxia in the treatment area, further, the methods herein may also result in the disruption of the vasculature, which provide further impetus for such treatments, singly and in combination with conventional therapies such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Methods for treating a target area may comprise systemically introducing nanoparticles into an organism; allowing the nanoparticles to preferentially accumulate in the target area, applying an external energy where the nanoparticles are adapted to transduce at least a portion of the external energy into a heat energy so as to create a focused localized hyperthermia; and applying a subsequent additional therapy. |
| US09211412B2 |
Closed loop neural stimulation synchronized to cardiac cycles
Various aspects of the present subject matter relate to a method. According to various method embodiments, cardiac activity is detected, and neural stimulation is synchronized with a reference event in the detected cardiac activity. Neural stimulation is titrated based on a detected response to the neural stimulation. Other aspects and embodiments are provided herein. |
| US09211407B2 |
Implantable vestibular prosthesis
An implantable nerve stimulation device has a sensor system, a data processor in communication with the sensor system, and a nerve stimulation system in communication with the data processor and constructed to provide electrical stimulation to at least one branch of at least one vestibulocochlear nerve. The nerve stimulation system includes an electrode array that has a first plurality of electrodes structured to be surgically implanted in electrical communication with a superior branch of the vestibular nerve, a second plurality of electrodes structured to be surgically implanted in electrical communication with a horizontal branch of the vestibular nerve, a third plurality of electrodes structured to be surgically implanted in electrical communication with a posterior branch of the vestibular nerve, and a common crus reference electrode structured to be surgically implanted into a common crus of the vestibular labyrinth. |
| US09211404B2 |
Method and apparatus for predicting and controlling the percepts induced by a visual prosthesis
Here we present the first model that quantitatively predicts the apparent spatial position and shape of percepts elicited by retinal electrical stimulation in humans based on the known anatomy of the retina. This model successfully predicts both the shape of percepts elicited by single electrode stimulation and the shape and relative positions of percepts elicited by multiple electrode stimulation. Model fits to behavioral data show that sensitivity to electrical stimulation is not confined to the axon initial segment, but does fall off rapidly with the distance between stimulation and the initial segment. Using the model, it is possible to compensate, preferably with a look up table, to match percepts to a desired image. |
| US09211403B2 |
Steerable stylet
A stylet for inserting an electrode array into a cochlea includes a first sensor insertable within a lumen of the electrode array and sensitive to force applied by a lumen wall to the first sensor and a first actuator adapted to move the electrode array in response to the force sensed by the first sensor. |
| US09211402B2 |
Deep brain stimulation current steering with split electrodes
A device for brain stimulation includes a lead having a longitudinal surface, a proximal end, a distal end and a lead body. The device also includes a plurality of electrodes disposed along the longitudinal surface of the lead near the distal end of the lead. The plurality of electrodes includes a first set of segmented electrodes comprising at least two segmented electrodes disposed around a circumference of the lead at a first longitudinal position along the lead; and a second set of segmented electrodes comprising at least two segmented electrodes disposed around a circumference of the lead at a second longitudinal position along the lead. The device further includes one or more conductors that electrically couple together all of the segmented electrodes of the first set of segmented electrodes. |
| US09211401B2 |
Cubic silicon carbide implantable neural prosthetic
An implantable neuronal prosthetic and method of manufacture thereof includes at least one elongated electrode shank adapted for arrangement in the brain having at least one electrode contact disposed on its surface and arranged to electrically couple with said brain. The at least one elongated electrode shank is formed form a single crystal cubic silicon carbide. An insulation layer of amorphous, polycrystalline, or single crystal silicon carbide is disposed over the elongated electrode shank; the insulation layer of amorphous, polycrystalline, or single crystal silicon carbide is removed from the at least one electrode contact. Signal control electronics are attached to the at least one elongated electrode shank and are in electrical communication with the at least one electrode contact. In an embodiment, a plurality of the at least one elongated electrode shanks are arranged into a matrix. |
| US09211399B2 |
Disposable electrode and automatic information recognition apparatus
A disposable electrode includes: an electrode pad; and a connector, connecting the electrode pad to a defibrillator, and including an information holder that can be provided with a transmissive opening or a light reflective member, the information holder holding information about at least an expiration date, depending on presence or absence of the transmissive opening or the light reflective member, the information holder allowing the information to be notified from the defibrillator when the connector is connected to the defibrillator. |
| US09211396B2 |
Devices and methods for vascular recanalization
In some embodiments, a medical device for recanalizing a vessel having a blockage and restoring blood flow through an obstructed blood vessel includes an expandable member coupled to a core wire and a hypotube that are movable relative to each other to manipulate the expandable member between various configurations. The expandable member having a capture structure in an expanded configuration. The expandable member can include multiple interstices formed by woven mesh filaments or braided strands through which the material blocking the vessel can pass. The capture structure can include a shape on its external surface that facilitates dislodgement and capture of the material within capture spaces created by the expandable member. Some embodiments include a capture sack or cap for capturing material and preventing material from migrating down stream of the blockage. Superoxygenated blood can be infused distal to the blockage to minimize loss of function during an ischemic event. |
| US09211395B2 |
Expandable sheath
A medical device includes an elongate member and an expandable member. The elongate member has an inner surface and an outer surface. The inner surface defines a lumen. The elongate member has a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration and is biased to its collapsed configuration. The expandable member is coupled to the outer surface of the elongate member. The expandable member is configured to move the elongate member from its collapsed configuration to its expanded configuration. |
| US09211391B2 |
Balloon with variable pitch reinforcing fibers
A medical balloon includes a generally cylindrical barrel wall having proximal and distal ends disposed between tapered cone walls and neck walls with a fiber layer comprised of circumferentially wrapped ribbon-shaped fiber embedded in a continuous matrix of polymer material defining the tapered cone walls and barrel wall, wherein the distance between the fiber wraps defines a fiber pitch or density that varies over the working length of the barrel wall in non-linear increments, for example in step-wise increments over the length of the barrel wall. |
| US09211389B2 |
Offset soft tip with proposed tooling
A medical catheter device is disclosed that comprises a tubular shaft member, a soft tip member, and a wire guide lumen extending longitudinally within the tubular shaft member and the soft tip member. The wire guide lumen is offset relative to the centerline within the soft tip member. By offsetting the inner diameter of the soft tip member in such a way as to not change the outward profile of the catheter, the soft tip will have improved tracking across existing stents and eccentric lesions. |
| US09211387B2 |
Infant nasal interface mask
An infant nasal interface mask for use with a nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) system including a mask body and a base. The mask body forms a cavity and is defined by a leading portion, an intermediate shell portion, and a trailing portion. The leading portion terminates in a leading edge forming an aperture open to the cavity and having a generally triangular shape for placement over a patient's nose. The trailing portion includes a bellows segment characterized by an increased flexibility as compared to a flexibility of the intermediate shell portion. The base extends from the trailing portion opposite the leading portion and forms at least one longitudinal passage extending through a thickness of the base and fluidly connected to the cavity. The intermediate shell portion is laterally pivotable relative to the base via the bellows segment. |
| US09211377B2 |
Infusion pump system with disposable cartridge having pressure venting and pressure feedback
Embodiments are directed to portable infusion devices, systems, and methods of using the same for dispensing materials. In some cases, the devices, systems and methods may be used for infusing a material such as medicament, e.g., insulin, into a body in need thereof. |
| US09211376B2 |
Infusion pump drug delivery system for delivering at least two medicaments
The infusion pump drug delivery system and corresponding method disclosed herein allow for continuous delivery of a first fluid and/or medicament from a reservoir operably connected to a pump and selective delivery of a second fluid and/or medicament from a separate reservoir, where the second fluid and/or medicament may be delivered sequentially or simultaneously with the first fluid and/or medicament at the command of the user. Both fluids and/or medicaments are delivered via a single dispense interface. |
| US09211368B2 |
Heart assist device
A heart assist device comprising a rotary pump housing having a cylindrical bore, a pumping chamber and a motor stator including an electrically conductive coil located within the housing and surrounding a portion of the cylindrical bore. A rotor has a cylindrical shaft, at least one impeller appended to one end of the shaft, and a plurality of magnets located within the shaft. The rotor shaft is positioned within the housing bore with the magnets opposite the motor stator, and the impeller is positioned within the pumping chamber. The housing bore is closely fitted to the outer surface of the shaft forming a hydrodynamic journal bearing, with the pumping chamber and journal bearing connected by a leak path of blood flow between the pumping chamber and the journal bearing. A backiron of the motor stator attracts the rotor magnets to resist longitudinal displacement of the rotor within the housing during operation. The relative orientation of positions of the inflow, outflow, and leakage flow paths may be varied within the pump, such as to accommodate different intended methods for implantation and/or use. |
| US09211367B2 |
Transseptal cannula, tip, delivery system, and method
A cannula assembly, further comprising a cannula body for directing blood from the heart of a patient, having distal and proximal ends and a lumen therebetween. A tip coupled to the distal end of the body, the tip having an opening. A pump for drawing blood into the cannula assembly and dispensing the blood from the cannula assembly and into the patient circulatory system. The lumen of the cannula body further comprises a first inner diameter at the proximal end and a second inner diameter at the distal end, the first inner diameter being larger than the second inner diameter. A tapered portion defined as a decrease in inner diameter from the first inner diameter to the second inner diameter between the proximal and distal ends, the tapered portion configured to prevent cavitation of the blood within the cannula. |
| US09211366B1 |
Nursing monitor and associated use thereof
A nursing bra for monitoring a child's milk intake during breast feeding procedures preferably includes a body adapted to be worn about a user breast, an electronic scale attached to the body for detecting a weight of the user breast, a monitor communicatively coupled to the electronic scale for receiving the weight of the user breast, a power source communicatively coupled to the scale and the monitor respectively. In this manner, the monitor displays a weight of the user breast before and after breast feeding procedures. |
| US09211365B2 |
Reduced pressure treatment system
A wound treatment apparatus is provided for treating tissue damage, which comprises a fluid impermeable wound cover sealed over a site for purposes of applying a reduced pressure to the site. The apparatus also can include a cover with protrusions on its surface for purposes of monitoring pressure at the site. One or more sensors can be positioned under the cover to provide feedback to a suction pump controller. The apparatus can have a miniature and portable vacuum source connected to the wound cover. |
| US09211361B2 |
Thin collagen tissue for medical device applications
This invention relates to processes of preparing heterogeneous graft material from animal tissue. Specifically, the invention relates to the preparation of animal tissue, in which the tissue is cleaned and chemically cross-linked using both vaporized and liquid cross-linking agents, resulting in improved physical properties such as thin tissue and lowered antigenicity, thereby increasing the ease of delivering the tissue during surgery and decreasing the risk of post-surgical complication, respectively. |
| US09211360B2 |
Bone graft
A method for producing a bone matrix scaffold has the steps of providing at least one sheet material and cross-linking the at least one sheet material using fibers. The sheet material has a surface pattern that enhances osteo-conductivity and potentially supports inductivity. The surface pattern is a 3-dimensional substantially continuous network having voids. The combination of the at least one sheet and fibers form a macrostructure having substantially continuous network and voids. |
| US09211358B2 |
Dressing compositions and methods
Described is a spray-on hydrogel comprising water-soluble PEG polymers that cross-link in situ to form a hydrogel such that the cross-links are reversible. The hydrogel can be useful as a drug delivery composition, wound dressing or surgery adjuvant. Polyethylene glycol polymer and cross-linker solutions are sprayed simultaneously through a common orifice. Cross-linking via formation of thioether or disulfide bonds is initiated upon mixing, providing rapid gelation. The hydrogel components can be derivatized with RGD peptides or analogs thereof to promote retention in/on a body compartment such as the skin, surface of the eye, or a mucosa such as the vaginal mucosa. The cross-links are reversed using a reducing solution enabling easy removal of the hydrogel by dissolution. Processes for preparation of the cross-linker, RGD derivatized PEG and RGD-linked agents are also disclosed. |
| US09211357B1 |
Pump type aroma diffuser
The present invention provides a pump type aroma diffuser including an essential oil bottle for containing essential oil and a gasification assembly connected with an open end of the essential oil bottle. The gasification assembly includes a gasification cavity, as well as an air nozzle and an essential oil nozzle which are installed on the cavity wall of the gasification cavity. The air nozzle and the essential oil nozzle are interconnected with the gasification cavity. The pump type aroma diffuser also includes a guide assembly which covers the gasification cavity and is configured to guide aroma. The guide assembly has a concentrated fog outlet for exhausting aroma, a first intake backflow channel and a second intake backflow channel which extend from the concentrated fog outlet to two different directions. The tail ends of the first intake backflow channel and the second intake backflow channel extend into the gasification cavity. |
| US09211348B2 |
Targeted gas-filled microvesicles
Gas-filled microvesicles associated with a polypeptide comprising a sequence of amino acids, said sequence exhibiting binding affinity for selectins, particularly p-selectin. The gas-filled microvesicles can be used in ultrasound imaging. |
| US09211344B2 |
Polypeptides
The present disclosure relates to a class of engineered polypeptides having a binding affinity for albumin. It also relates to new methods and uses that exploit binding by these and other compounds to albumin in different contexts, some of which have significance for treatment or diagnosis of disease in mammals including humans. |
| US09211335B2 |
Stabilized pharmaceutical formulations comprising antineoplastic compounds
The present invention relates to stabilized pharmaceutical formulations prepared from solutions comprising an antineoplastic compound having a cyclic or non-cyclic hydrazine, triazine, or tetrazine group, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and a stabilizer, wherein the stabilizer is an antioxidant and/or more susceptible to nucleophilic attack than the antineoplastic compound. |
| US09211334B2 |
Use of testosterone and a 5-HT1A agonist in the treatment of sexual dysfunction
The invention relates to the field of male and/or female sexual dysfunction. The invention specifically relates to the use of testosterone and a 5-HT1A agonist. |
| US09211331B2 |
Mineral based composition and methods of use
The invention provides a process for producing a composition comprising natural alumino-silicate minerals having improved reactivity for use in methods of animal husbandry, veterinary and pharmaceutical treatment, comprising irradiating natural alumino-silicate minerals in a liquid suspension with transverse electromagnetic wave radiation in the range of 1,800 MHz to 3,000 MHz, the liquid suspension having a boiling temperature of below 120° C. The invention also provides a method of treating digestive ailments in animals comprising administering to an animal in need of same an effective amount of a composition comprising at least one natural alumina-silicate mineral which has been irradiated with transverse electromagnetic wave radiation in the range of 1,800 MHz to 3,000 MHz. |
| US09211325B2 |
Peptide adjuvants
Adjuvant compositions comprising specific 5mer polypeptides in combination with antigen delivery systems and/or immunostimulatory molecules, such as immunostimulatory nucleic acid sequences, for enhancing the immune response of a coadministered antigen, are described. |
| US09211323B2 |
Compositions and methods for administration of vaccines against dengue virus
Embodiments of the present invention report compositions and methods for vaccinating a subject against dengue viruses. In some embodiments, vaccine compositions may be administered by intradermal introduction. In certain embodiments, intradermal introduction in a subject of a vaccine against dengue virus may include one or more intradermal boosts after initial vaccination. Other embodiments include intradermal injection of a vaccine composition against dengue virus wherein the composition provides protection against two or more of DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3 and DEN-4. |
| US09211319B2 |
Weekly dosing regimens for anti-CD30 VC-PAB-MMAE antibody drug-conjugates
Methods for the treatment of CD30-expressing cancers are provided. The methods comprise administering to a subject in need thereof a weekly dose of from about 0.8 mg/kg to about 1.8 mg/kg of an antibody-drug conjugate compound having formula (I); or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; wherein: mAb is an anti-CD30 antibody unit, S is a sulfur atom of the antibody, A- is a Stretcher unit, and p is from about 3 to about 5. |
| US09211315B2 |
Soluble glycosaminoglycanases and methods of preparing and using soluble glycosaminoglycanases
The invention relates to the discovery of novel soluble neutral active Hyaluronidase Glycoproteins (sHASEGPs), methods of manufacture, and their use to facilitate administration of other molecules or to alleviate glycosaminoglycan associated pathologies. Minimally active polypeptide domains of the soluble, neutral active sHASEGP domains are described that include asparagine-linked sugar moieties required for a functional neutral active hyaluronidase domain. Included are modified amino-terminal leader peptides that enhance secretion of sHASEGP. The invention further comprises sialated and pegylated form of a recombinant sHASEGP to enhance stability and serum pharmacokinetics over naturally occurring slaughterhouse enzymes. Further described are suitable formulations of a substantially purified recombinant sHASEGP glycoprotein derived from a eukaryotic cell that generate the proper glycosylation required for its optimal activity. |
| US09211314B2 |
Treatment selection for lung cancer patients using mass spectrum of blood-based sample
A test for predicting whether a non-small-cell lung cancer patient is more likely to benefit from an EGFR-I as compared to chemotherapy uses a computer-implemented classifier operating on a mass spectrum of a blood-based sample obtained from the patient. The classifier makes use of a training set which includes mass spectral data from blood-based samples of other cancer patients who are members of a class of patients predicted to have overall survival benefit on EGFRI-Is, e.g., those patients testing VS Good under the test described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,736,905. This class-labeled group is further subdivided into two subsets, i.e., those patients which exhibited early (class label “early”) and late (class label “late”) progression of disease after administration of the EGFR-I in treatment of cancer. |
| US09211311B2 |
Methods for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders
Methods for treating neurodegenerative disorders, including Parkinson's disease, are provided. The methods comprise administrating a therapeutically effective amount of oxytocin or oxytocin analogs to alleviate one or more symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Methods for determining the effectiveness of oxytocin therapy by itself or in addition to one or more adjunctive therapies in alleviating one or more symptoms of Parkinson's disease are also discussed. |
| US09211309B2 |
Method for treatment of Escherichia coli type K99 infections
The present invention relates to a composition comprising EK99P-1, a bacteriophage isolated from nature and capable of infecting E. coli type K99 so as to kill the same, as an active ingredient, and a method for preventing and treating E. coli type K99 infections using the said composition. According to the present invention, the bacteriophage EK99P-1, an active ingredient of the composition, has a killing activity against E. coli type K99 and has the genome represented by SEQ. ID. NO: 1. |
| US09211305B2 |
Pharmaceutical compositions with glycosaminoglycans and use thereof in the treatment of chronic ulcers
The invention relates to a composition of glycosaminoglycans for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcer, it specifically relates to low molecular weight heparins (LMWHs) and very low molecular weight heparins (VLMWHs) in the treatment of chronic ulcers, particularly of diabetic foot ulcers, and more specifically in the manufacture of a medicinal product for the treatment of chronic ulcers, and particularly diabetic foot ulcers and pressure ulcers. |
| US09211303B2 |
Selective reduction of the deleterious activity of extended tri-nucleotide repeat containing genes
Aspects of the invention include methods of selectively reducing the deleterious activity of mutant extended trinucleotide repeat containing genes in a cell, as well as compositions used in such methods. The deleterious activity (e.g., toxicity and/or dis-functionality of products encoded thereby) of a mutant extended trinucleotide repeat containing gene may be selectively reduced in a variety of different ways, e.g., by selectively decreasing SPT4 mediated transcriptional activity, by enhancing functionality of proteins encoded thereby, etc. Aspects of the invention further include assays for identifying agents that find use in methods of the invention, e.g. as summarized above. Methods and compositions of the invention find use in a variety of different applications, including the prevention or treatment of disease conditions associated with the presence of genes containing mutant extended trinucleotide repeats, such as Huntington's Disease (HD). |
| US09211300B2 |
4′-fluoro nucleosides for the treatment of HCV
Provided herein are compounds, compositions and methods for the treatment of Flaviviridae infections, including HCV infections. In certain embodiments, compounds and compositions of nucleoside derivatives are disclosed, which can be administered either alone or in combination with other anti-viral agents. In certain embodiments, the compounds are according to Formula 1501: or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate, stereoisomeric form, tautomeric form or polymorphic form thereof, wherein B, PD, RA, RB, RC, L, M and Z are as described herein. |
| US09211298B2 |
Compositions containing enriched natural crocin and/or crocetin, and their therapeutic or nutraceutical uses
The invention relates to unique compositions containing enriched and purified natural crocin and/or crocetin for prevention and/or treatment of cancers and other conditions and diseases. Compositions comprise mainly enriched or purified natural crocin or crocetin or combination of both and possible other active phytochemicals. A composition is used as functional food, drink, dietary supplement, or therapeutic dosage to a human orally or through other appropriate way (parenteral, percutaneous, rectal, mucosal, intranasal or topical administration). A method of natural crocin and crocetin enriching and purification is revealed. |
| US09211297B2 |
Exercise performance-increasing nutritional supplement and related methods and compositions
The present invention provides a nutritional supplement, comprising L-carnitine and phosphatidylserine; and optionally, further comprises at least one mineral selected from the group consisting of: iron; copper and zinc; and optionally, further comprises ferrous glycinate, copper glycinate and zinc glycinate. |
| US09211295B2 |
17 alpha, 21-dihydroxypregnene esters as antiandrogenic agents
17α,21-Dihydroxypregna-4,9(11)-diene-3,20-dione and 17α,21-dihydroxypregna-4-ene-3,20-dione 17 and/or 21 esters having remarkable antiandrogenic activity are provided, along with methods of using these compounds and processes for their preparation. |
| US09211292B2 |
Preventing or reducing drug abuse and overdose events
A method and compositions for treating a patient that prevent or reduce drug abuse and overdose events. |
| US09211288B2 |
Compositions comprising vortioxetine and donepezil
Pharmaceutical compositions comprising vortioxetine and donepezil are provided and the use of such composition for the treatment of cognitive dysfunctions. |
| US09211287B2 |
Pyrido[4,3-b]indole and pyrido[3,4-b]indole derivatives and methods of use
This disclosure is directed to pyrido[4,3-b]indole and pyrido[3,4-b]indole derivatives. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compounds are also provided, as are methods of using the compounds in a variety of therapeutic applications, including the treatment of a cognitive disorder, psychotic disorder, neurotransmitter-mediated disorder and/or a neuronal disorder. The compounds may bind to and antagonize receptor α2B, α1B or α2A. The compounds may find use in therapy, e.g., to (i) reduce blood pressure and/or (ii) promote renal blood flow and/or (iii) decrease or inhibit sodium reabsorption, or to regulate blood glucose level, increase insulin secretion and treat diseases or conditions that are, or are expected to be, responsive to an increase in insulin production. The compounds may also be used to treat diseases or conditions that are expected to be responsive to a decrease in blood pressure. Use of the compounds to treat cardiovascular, renal disorders or type 2 diabetes is particularly described. |
| US09211286B2 |
Terconazole composition and method
An aqueous terconazole composition comprises at least about 0.4 percent by weight of terconazole dissolved in water, and a terconazole crystallization-inhibiting amount of an organic acid. Preferably the organic acid is a water soluble alkyl carboxylic acid, a polybasic organic acid, or a combination thereof. The composition is free from terconazole crystals at an ambient temperature of about 20° C. Methods of preparing the composition are also described. The compositions provide for improved therapeutic release of terconazole. |
| US09211285B2 |
Methods and compositions for treating post-operative pain comprising clonidine
The present invention is directed to an implantable drug depot useful for reducing, preventing or treating post-operative pain in a patient in need of such treatment, the implantable drug depot comprising a therapeutically effective amount of clonidine or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and a polymer; wherein the depot is implantable at a site beneath the skin to reduce, prevent or treat post-operative pain, and the depot is capable of releasing (i) about 5% to about 45% of the clonidine or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof relative to a total amount of the clonidine or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof loaded in the drug depot over a first period of up to 48 hours and (ii) about 55% to about 95% of the clonidine or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof relative to a total amount of the clonidine or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof loaded in the drug depot over a subsequent period of at least 3 days. |
| US09211284B2 |
Diagnosis and treatment of P.R.I.C.E. syndrome
A method for treating a patient having P.R.I.C.E. Syndrome is disclosed. The method includes administering to the patient a therapeutically effective amount of an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist in an extended release dosage form. |
| US09211279B2 |
Proline sulfonamide derivatives as orexin receptor antagonists
The present invention relates to (S)-proline sulfonamide compounds of formula (I) wherein R1 and R2 are as described in the description, or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, for use in the prevention or treatment of diseases or disorders related to the orexin system. The present invention also relates to the use of (S)-proline sulfonamide compounds of formula (II) as pharmaceuticals, to pharmaceutical compositions comprising compounds of formula (II), and especially their use in the prevention or treatment of diseases or disorders related to the orexin system. |
| US09211277B2 |
Dietary supplement composition
A dietary supplement composition is presented, which includes omega-3 fatty acids, one or more of tocopherols and tocotrienols, and/or one or more essential oils. The dietary supplement may provide numerous health benefits to the user, including improvements in cardiovascular health, ocular health, cerebral and cognitive function, muscle function, and athletic performance. This supplement also has pronounced anti-inflammatory benefits. The collective effect of the composition may also maximize the positive effects of omega-3 fatty acids while also reducing or eliminating any negative effects associated with these fats. |
| US09211274B2 |
TRPV1 compounds in a biodegradable polymer carrier
Effective treatments of pain for extended periods of time are provided. Through the administration of an effective amount of a TRPV1 compound (e.g., capsaicinoid compound) at or near a target site, one can relieve pain caused by diverse sources, including but not limited to, postoperative pain, spinal disc herniation (i.e. sciatica), spondilothesis, stenosis, discogenic back pain and joint pain, as well as pain that is incidental to surgery. When appropriate formulations are provided within biodegradable polymers, this relief can be continued for at least three days. In some embodiments, the relief can be for at least twenty-five days, at least fifty days, at least one hundred days, at least one hundred and thirty-five days or at least one hundred and eighty days. |
| US09211269B2 |
Methods and devices for using isoperillyl alcohol
The present invention provides for a method of treating a disease such as cancer, comprising the step of administering to a patient a therapeutically effective amount of an isomer or analog of monoterpene or sesquiterpene (or its derivative), such as an isoperillyl alcohol. The present invention also provides for a method of treating a disease comprising the step of administering to a patient a therapeutically effective amount of a derivative of an isomer or analog of monoterpene or sesquiterpene, such as an isoperillyl alcohol carbamate. The derivative may be an isoperillyl alcohol conjugated with a therapeutic agent such as a chemotherapeutic agent. The route of administration may vary, including inhalation, intranasal, oral, transdermal, intravenous, subcutaneous or intramuscular injection. |
| US09211268B2 |
Method and dosage regimens for eliminating a chemical substance in blood
A method of reducing the concentration of a chemical or drug substance in the blood plasma comprising titrating an initial peak concentration of the chemical or drug substance in the blood for a predefined dosing period, titrating a lowest concentration level of the chemical or drug substance in the blood immediately before the end of the dosing period, and providing a plurality of subsequent dosing periods where each subsequent dosing period requires administration of a dosing amount of the chemical or drug substance and titrating of the peak concentration and the lowest concentration level to ensure that the lowest concentration level of the chemical or drug substance in the blood plasma for the subsequent dosing period is decreased by not more than five percent of the lowest concentration level of the previous dosing period and where the plurality of dosing periods added together is seventy days or more. |
| US09211265B2 |
Tablets comprising a taste masking agent
The present invention is directed to a tablet comprising at least one bitter tasting and/or mucosa numbness causing pharmaceutically active compound; and at least one zinc salt. In addition, the present invention relates to the use of a zinc salt to reduce or mask the bitter taste of or the numbness of the mucosa caused by pharmaceutically active compounds. |
| US09211261B2 |
Immediate release dosage forms containing solid drug dispersions
High loading immediate release dosage forms containing at least 30 wt % of a solid drug dispersion, at least 5 wt % of a disintegrant and a porosigen are disclosed that exhibit excellent strength and aqueous solubility. |
| US09211258B2 |
Rifaximin ready-to-use suspension
A stable, taste-masked, ready-to-use suspension comprising rifaximin dispersed in a suspension base and one or more pharmaceutically acceptable additive(s). Also provided is a process for preparing a stable, taste-masked, ready-to-use suspension of rifaximin comprising the steps of mixing rifaximin with the suspension base and further sizing the particles of rifaximin by milling the suspension to obtain a homogenously dispersed rifaximin suspension. |
| US09211257B2 |
Osteoclast inhibitors for knee conditions
Oral dosage forms of osteoclast inhibitors, such as nitrogen-containing bisphosphonates, can be used to treat or alleviate pain or related conditions. |
| US09211254B2 |
Aqueous ophthalmic suspension of crystalline rebamipide
The invention provides an ophthalmic product containing rebamipide, which has a transparency enough to be agreeable feeling on using it and has neutral to weakly acidic pH not to injury of the keratoconjunctiva of a patient suffering from dry eye. An aqueous suspension of crystalline rebamipide which has an improved transparency is provided by adding an aqueous solution of rebamipide dissolved by a base such as sodium hydroxide or an aqueous solution of a salt of rebamipide to an aqueous acidic solution such as hydrochloric acid containing at least one of the compounds selected from water-soluble polymers and surfactants, and mixing them. |
| US09211247B2 |
Shellac based sprayable sunscreen
A sprayable alcohol-based sunscreen comprises an alcohol carrier, at least one sunscreen additive, and a film forming polymer comprising shellac. |
| US09211241B2 |
Oral composition
Provided is an oral composition that can sufficiently remove protein staining present on a tooth surface, can effectively prevent adhesion of protein staining on a tooth surface and can provide a good actual feeling of the cleaning effect in the oral cavity. The oral composition comprises the following components (A) and (B): (A) an N-acylamino acid or a salt thereof in an amount of 0.005 mass % or more and 0.3 mass % or less; and (B) pyrophosphoric acid or a salt thereof in an amount of 0.005 mass % or more and 0.5 mass % or less, in which a mass ratio ((B)/(A)) of the component (B) to the component (A) is 0.05 or more and 40 or less and a total content of the component (A) and the component (B) is 0.01 mass % or more and 0.6 mass % or less. |
| US09211240B2 |
Multicomponent oral care composition
The present invention relates to a multicomponent oral health care composition, comprising a source of a fluoride ion, a source of a calcium ion, a source of a phosphate ion, and stabilized chlorine dioxide, that can be used as a toothpaste, oral spray or a mouth wash/oral rinse formulation. The different components in the composition act synergistically together to clean the teeth and mucous membranes of an oral cavity of a subject, perfuming them or protecting them in order to keep them in good condition, change their appearance or correct unpleasant odors. They achieve this by inhibiting caries, promoting teeth remineralization, and helping to alleviate dentine hypersensitivity, gingivitis and periodontal disease. |
| US09211236B2 |
Infiltrant for dental application
The invention provides an infiltrant for dental application that comprises crosslinking monomers. In accordance with the invention the infiltrant has a penetration coefficient PC>50 cm/s, and comprises 0.05%-20% by weight of acid-group-containing monomers. |
| US09211228B2 |
Massaging topical oils applicator
A massaging applicator device for applying topical oils to an individual, such as a person or creature, and methods of applying topical oils are disclosed. Some embodiments of an exemplary massaging applicator device may include an applicator body containing a vibration assembly. A roller ball foot is coupled to the applicator body. The roller ball foot houses a roller ball. A container is selectively coupled to the roller ball foot and is configured to hold a topical oil. A flow switch is disposed between the container and the roller ball to selectively control flow of topical oil from the container to the roller ball. |
| US09211225B2 |
Limited stretch compression garment apparatus and method
An apparatus for applying pressure to a body part comprising multiple interconnectable bands of compressible or noncompressible material. Optional spine to further interconnect the bands. Interconnectable pieces designed for covering specific body areas. Modular arrangement of the individual components. Customized or off-the-shelf availability of the apparatus. |
| US09211224B2 |
Pediatric headrest for skull stabilization and method for use of same
A pediatric headrest for skull stabilization and a method for use of the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, a horseshoe shaped head support includes first and second wings pivotally coupled to a body to adjust the angle therebetween. A gel pad is superposed on the horseshoe shaped head support. First and second arcuate base members are coupled to the first and second wings, respectively, to accept a plurality of placement subassemblies, which are circumferentially adjustably positioned and secured within the channels. Each placement subassembly is configured to receive a skull pin and provide adjustable horizontal, vertical, and angular positioning of the skull pin with respect to the arcuate base. |
| US09211219B2 |
Method of packaging an absorbent article and attaching the absorbent article to an undergarment
A method of individually packaging an absorbent article and attaching the absorbent article to an undergarment including the steps of providing a tri-folded absorbent article having two end portions and an intermediate portion, providing a pouch containing the tri-folded absorbent article, opening the pouch to thereby expose a garment-facing surface of the intermediate portion of the absorbent article prior to exposing a garment facing surface of either of the end portions of the absorbent article. |
| US09211213B2 |
Ocular implants and methods for delivering ocular implants into the eye
An ocular implant is provided. In some embodiments, the ocular implant includes a body that is curved about a longitudinal central axis and a distal body portion that defines a longitudinal channel including a channel opening. The implant is sized and configured such that the ocular implant assumes an orientation in which the channel opening is adjacent a major side of Schlemm's canal when the ocular implant is disposed in Schlemm's canal. Methods for delivering ocular implants into Schlemm's canal are also provided. Some methods include covering openings in the ocular implant, advancing the implant into Schlemm's canal while at least some of the openings are covered, and uncovering the openings while the distal portion of the implant is disposed in Schlemm's canal. |
| US09211211B2 |
Female posterior wall prosthesis
A prosthesis comprising a pancake-shaped body, a narrowed neck and a flared flattened handle sized and shaped to shield the posterior vaginal wall from frictional contact during coitus. The pancake-shaped body unfurls during insertion and provides for the prosthesis to be retained within the vagina and the flared flattened handle prevents the prosthesis from entering the vagina during insertion of the prosthesis or during coitus. This prosthesis decreases the volume of the vagina and decreases the area of the vaginal opening providing a non-surgical, cost-effective solution to tightening a woman's vagina. The posterior vaginal wall prosthesis enables women who have larger vaginas to use tampons. |
| US09211208B2 |
Orthosis and production method
An orthosis and a method for the production thereof are provided. The orthosis includes a first support section and at least one further support section that form a three-dimensional support body. The support sections rest on the patient and support limbs or body areas of the patient. The orthosis also comprises fixing means which engage on the support body and which fix the orthosis on the patient. The support body comprising the support sections includes a reinforcing structure that comprises a support layer onto which at least one reinforcing thread is sewn. A pattern layout of the reinforcing thread is oriented along force lines corresponding to stresses that occur in the support body. The layout of the reinforcing thread lies within a surface on the support layer, said surface corresponding to a two-dimensional pattern layout of the three-dimensional support body. |
| US09211202B2 |
Apparatus and method for treating an aneurysm
In an apparatus and method for treating an aneurysm, a flow control member is positioned within a blood vessel at least in part upstream of an aneurysm and extending radially inward of the blood vessel wall into the flow path of blood flowing within the blood vessel. The flow control member alters the blood flow path within the blood vessel upstream of the aneurysm to inhibit blood flow to the aneurysm. A retention member may be positioned within the blood vessel at least in part upstream from the aneurysm and having an outer surface engageable with the blood vessel wall. In such an instance, the flow control member is retained by the retention member and extends radially inward of the blood vessel wall upstream from the aneurysm. |
| US09211201B2 |
Hybrid terrain-adaptive lower-extremity systems
Hybrid terrain-adaptive lower-extremity apparatus and methods that perform in a variety of different situations by detecting the terrain that is being traversed, and adapting to the detected terrain. In some embodiments, the ability to control the apparatus for each of these situations builds upon five basic capabilities: (1) determining the activity being performed; (2) dynamically controlling the characteristics of the apparatus based on the activity that is being performed; (3) dynamically driving the apparatus based on the activity that is being performed; (4) determining terrain texture irregularities (e.g., how sticky is the terrain, how slippery is the terrain, is the terrain coarse or smooth, does the terrain have any obstructions, such as rocks) and (5) a mechanical design of the apparatus that can respond to the dynamic control and dynamic drive. |
| US09211198B2 |
Method for using a guard for creating a socket posteriorly in the lumbar spine
A method for guiding a bone removal device to form a socket in the human spine and for inserting a cortical bone implant into the socket. The method includes placing a guard against the posterior aspect of the spine, the guard having a passage therethrough, inserting the bone removal device into the passage, removing a portion of a facet joint with the bone removal device to create the socket having a maximum height, and inserting the cortical bone implant into the socket. The cortical bone implant has a leading end, a trailing end, a mid-longitudinal axis through the ends, and a height transverse to the mid-longitudinal axis, the height of the cortical bone implant being greater than the maximum height of the socket. |
| US09211197B2 |
Expandable corpectomy device
The instant invention is a longitudinally adjustable corpectomy device which fits within the intervertebral distracted channel. A ratchet mechanism allows for an extendable member to adjust to a longer length to accommodate a distracted channel. The ratchet type mechanism allows the members to move in a unidirectional movement to prevent the two members from contracting once expanded. |
| US09211189B2 |
Transiently mobile tibial engagement
The present invention relates to a tibial prosthesis having an articulating component and a tray component. The articulating component is configured for attachment to the tray component. Additionally, the articulating component may be attached to the tray component in a first condition in which the articulating component is at least rotatable relative to the tray component. This allows for the tray component to be attached to the tibia in a position that provides for proper rotation of the tray component with respect to the tibia and/or prevents the tray component from overhanging the resected tibia. Then, the articulating component may be rotated and/or translated to a position that provides for proper alignment of the articulating component with a femoral prosthesis. Once in this positioned, a locking mechanism is used to rotationally fix the articulating component to the tray component. |
| US09211188B2 |
Femoral head prosthesis
A femoral head prosthesis (110) comprises an articulating surface (112) which is more than hemi-spherical; an internal recess (114) having a longitudinal axis defining a pole P of the articulating surface (112), the longitudinal axis passing through the center of curvature of the articulating surface (112); a first edge (116) which constitutes a posterior edge in use, and a second edge (118) which constitutes an anterior edge and/or an antero-inferior edge in use. The first edge (116) is further from the pole P than the second edge (118). Also provided is a femoral prosthesis comprising a femoral head, and a femoral implant comprising a femoral stem and a femoral head. The prostheses and implants of the invention find use in total hip replacements. |
| US09211186B2 |
Semi-rigid framework for a plate haptic intraocular lens
A plate haptic for an intraocular lens. The plate haptic has a haptic body that is substantially rigid in a longitudinal direction and substantially flexible in a transverse direction. A chassis is integral to the haptic body. The chassis causes the haptic body to be substantially more rigid in a longitudinal direction than in a transverse direction. |
| US09211183B2 |
Thoracic stent graft with guide arrangement
A stent graft (1) has at least one fenestration (13) or low profile side arm (34). A guide assembly (17) surrounds the fenestration or low profile side arm. The guide assembly has a continuous wall extending laterally away from the outer surface of the stent graft. The continuous wall is substantially elliptical or circular and extends distally of the fenestration at a distal end of the wall and being coincident with a proximal part (25) of the periphery of the fenestration or low profile side arm at a proximal end of the wall (23). The wall acts to define a guide area to guide a flexible probe extended from a side branch vessel to enter the fenestration or low profile side arm. Where there are two fenestrations or low profile side arms there can be a single continuous wall (50) around both or separate walls for each. The wall may have a peripheral wire reinforcement (19). |
| US09211169B2 |
Interproximal non-surgical caries treatment method
The device includes a shim component constructed for use in the non-surgical treatment of interproximal carious dental lesions. A plunger may be provided for driving substances through a tube-like channel or bore in the shim component, or an electromagnetic energy-transmissive material may fill the channel, in either case for delivering to the site of the lesion a medium that is effective for directly or indirectly killing, or biologically damaging, the carious bacteria. |
| US09211167B2 |
Dental implant utilizing a polymeric post
The present invention is a dental implant utilizing a polymeric dental post. The actual prosthetic portion of the implant may also be manufactured from a polymer. Various post designs are disclosed for setting and securing the post in a patient's jaw. Numerous polymers are disclosed and may be blended to achieve desired characteristics for both the post and prosthetic. |
| US09211165B2 |
Positioning and installing surgical drilling devices and related devices and systems
In some aspects, methods can include providing a top loading dental surgical guide including a dental drill guide positioning ring housed within the template material, the positioning ring including a body defining an inner surface and a retention element extending inwardly from the inner surface; coupling the surgical guide to the region to be drilled; temporarily engaging a drill guide within the positioning ring by axially coupling using the retention element, independently of a rotational motion of the drill guide relative to the positioning ring by engaging the retention element within a complementary recessed feature of the drill guide; performing a drilling procedure with a drill guided by the drill guide; and disengaging and removing the drill guide from the positioning ring. |
| US09211162B2 |
Visualization device for use with a tray for loading a medical device
A visualization device for use with a loading tray includes a frame comprising a floor, a first side wall extending generally perpendicular from the floor, and a second side wall extending generally perpendicular from the floor and spaced from the first side wall. The visualization device further includes a mirror abutting the floor of the frame. A magnifying glass may also be supported by top edges of the first and second side walls, or by runners coupled to the top edges of the first and second side walls. The visualization device may be slideably disposed in a reservoir of a loading tray. |
| US09211161B2 |
Apparatus and methods for associating medical probes with connection ports
Apparatus, systems and methods for associating medical diagnostic and treatment probes with connection ports of a multiport instrument console. Proximity sensing between a probe and the console provide user-detectable signals indicating the availability or nonavailability of a compatibly configured port for the probe, and specific identification of one or more ports that are compatible with the probe. The proximity sensing also provides capability for identifying and configuring a probe before attempting to connect the probe to a console port. |
| US09211156B2 |
Map and ablate closed-loop cooled ablation catheter with flat tip
A system for performing mapping and ablation functions includes a catheter sized and shaped for vascular access. The catheter includes an elongate body extending between a proximal end and a distal end and having at least one inner fluid lumen. The catheter further includes a tip section positioned proximate to the distal end of the body. The tip section includes a proximal portion and a distal portion. The distal portion can have a distal end that can be substantially planar. The system also includes one or more electrode structures exposed at the tip section such that the one or more electrode structures disposed proximate the substantially planar distal end of the tip section. |
| US09211153B2 |
Expansion screw bone tamp
A method of compacting and stabilizing bone in the spine using an expandable screw and bone filler. The method includes placing an expanding screw through a pedicle and into a fractured vertebral body using established techniques; and expanding the screw within the body to create a cavity by tamping bone around the expanded aspect of the screw. The screw can be expanded and rotated about its rotational-axis to tamp bone adjacent to the expanded screw. After compaction, the screw is removed and the cavity is filled with bone filler. |
| US09211151B2 |
Bone plating system
The present invention relates to a bone plating system and method for fracture fixation of bone. The bone plating system includes a bone plate, at least one locking screw, and at least one non-locking screw. The bone plate has locking holes with threads and non-locking holes. The locking screws have a shaft with a thread for engaging bone and a head with a thread configured and dimensioned to mate with the thread of the locking holes. The non-locking screws have a thread for engaging bone and a non-threaded head. Both the locking and non-locking screws remain seated in their respective holes for substantially as long as the bone plate is implanted. The non-locking screws compress the bone plate against the bone and hold fracture reduction while the locking screws are secured to the plate at a fixed angular relationship. The mixed fixation achieved by this bone plating system and method is particularly useful for treatment of per-articular fractures. |
| US09211148B2 |
Bone plate system and related methods
A bone plate system for use in an “open door” laminoplasty procedure, including a bone plate, a first fixation element, and at least one second fixation element. The bone plate is elongated and has a generally curved shape such that the plate has an associated radius of curvature. The plate is sized and dimensioned to span a gap between a pair of bony segments, for example a pair of bony segments constituting a divided lamina. The first and second fixation elements are each configured to securely attach the bone plate to the bony segments. The bone plate has a first end including a generally U-shaped slot extending therein such that the open end of the slot comprises a first terminal end of the plate. |
| US09211139B2 |
Anti-extravasation surgical portal plug
The devices and methods shown provide for the minimization of extravasation during arthroscopic surgery. The anti-extravasation surgical portal plug allows a surgeon to drain excess fluids from the soft tissue surrounding the surgical field during arthroscopic surgical procedures. |
| US09211136B1 |
Compact endoscopic surgical blade assembly and method of use thereof
An endoscopic surgical device comprising a slotted clear cannula, a blade and a housing, wherein the cannula is attached to the housing, and wherein the blade is enclosed in the housing and is slidable into the cannula is disclosed. The blade is enclosed within the housing and cannula, and has a horizontally-oriented pushing component and a vertically-oriented cutting component that protrudes through the slot of the cannula. A method for a performing an operative procedure on a target tissue in a subject using the endoscopic surgical device is also described. |
| US09211134B2 |
Wrist assembly for articulating laparoscopic surgical instruments
An articulating laparoscopic instrument including a handle, an outer shaft, an end effector, and a wrist assembly. The wrist assembly connects the end effector to the shaft and includes torque and articulation mechanisms. The torque mechanism includes a plurality of links disposed over the rod and connected with one another in a pivotable yet rotationally locked fashion. The articulation mechanism includes a plurality of articulation member disposed over the rod to collectively define a deflection section. The links freely rotate relative to the articulation members, with the rod and links collectively bending in response to a change in shape of the deflection section. |
| US09211129B2 |
Implant and related surgical technique for use in high tibial osteotomy
An implant for use in high tibial osteotomy can include a central implant portion, a first side implant portion and a second side implant portion. The first and second side implant portions can be selectively rotatable relative to each other. A method of performing high tibial osteotomy can include providing an implant having a superior surface and an inferior surface. The first superior surface and the second inferior surface can define an implant angle therebetween. A correction angle of the tibia can be determined. A first cut can be made in the tibia. An angle of a second cut relative to the first cut can be determined based on a difference between the implant angle and the correction angle. The second cut can be made in the tibia. The tibia can be opened creating an opening for receipt of the implant. The implant can be inserted into the opening. |
| US09211128B2 |
Devices and methods for hip replacement
Devices and methods for use in hip replacement surgery can incorporate computer models of a patient's acetabulum and surrounding bone structure, a first patient-specific jig designed from the computer model and configured to correspond to a final installation position and orientation of a prosthetic hip implant, a second patient-specific jig, also designed from the computer model, configured to refine the procedure, if necessary, following use of the first patient-specific jig, and/or a third patient specific jig, designed from the computer model, configured to refine the procedure, if necessary, following use of the first and second patient-specific jigs, allowing the surgeon to properly position and orient the hip prosthesis. Also shown and described are novel devices for implanting an acetabular cup. |
| US09211126B2 |
Microfracture apparatuses and methods
Embodiments of apparatuses and methods for microfracture (e.g., forming a plurality of microfractures in a bone to encourage cartilage regeneration). |
| US09211118B2 |
Suture passer
A suturing device for grasping soft tissue and placing stitches in soft tissue during endoscopic procedures is described. An elongate housing with a stationary jaw and a movable jaw disposed at the distal end are configured for grasping and releasing soft tissue. A movable needle disposed within the housing is actuated to engage a length of suture and drive the suture into and through the grasped soft tissue. A suture capture member is disposed on the movable jaw and is configured to allow passage of the needle therethrough while securing a portion of the stitched length of suture. |
| US09211117B2 |
Surgical treatment system and method for performing an anastomosis between two hollow ducts in a patient, in particular between the bladder and the urethra
The treatment system according to the invention comprises: —suture members (20) which are made of a bioresorbable material and each of which has two legs (21, 22) having a respective free end (21A, 22A), the free ends (21A, 22A) being fixedly connectable to each other by having them interact with each other or with an attachment of the suture member in a form-fitting manner, the two legs (21, 22) being elastically deformable at least in part except for said free ends thereof; —an elongate support element (10) which can movably support the suture members and can be inserted into one of the patient's two hollow ducts (2, 3) in the direction of the central longitudinal axis of the support element (10); and —a suture member-biasing mechanism (30) that is movably supported by the support element, is disposed at least in part within the support element, and can move and deform each suture member between a retracted position in which the free ends of the two legs (21, 22) of the suture member can be moved relative to each other as they are both arranged at a radial distance from the axis which is shorter than the outer radius of the support element, and a deployed position in which the free ends of the two legs of the suture member are located outside the support element so as to be fixedly connected to each other as they are both arranged at a radial distance from the axis which is greater than the outer radius of the support element, after having transversely penetrated from the inside to the outside of the respective walls of the patient's two hollow ducts. |
| US09211114B1 |
Method of coating tissue to promote soft tissue and bone tissue healing, involving nanotechnology, and a photonic curing system for use in repairing tissue
A method for promoting soft tissue to soft tissue growth, soft tissue to bone tissue growth or bone tissue to bone tissue growth including coating the soft tissue or bone tissue with a nano-composition that encourages growth and photonically curing the composition to the soft tissue or bone tissue after it has been coated such that the soft tissue or bone tissue is not substantially damaged. A photonic curing system for use in repairing hard or soft tissue in a medical procedure is also provided includes a coating device for coating the tissue with a nano-composition that encourages growth, and a curing device for curing the composition to the tissue after it has been coated such that the first tissue is not substantially damaged. |
| US09211113B2 |
Biopsy needles
A biopsy needle for collecting a tissue specimen includes a handle including a handle body that defines a hollow interior that includes a hollow inner housing member and a cannula assembly including an inner cannula, an outer cannula and a snarecoil coil at a distal end that is attached to the outer cannula. The biopsy needle also includes a first biasing element that is coupled to the cannula assembly and is configured to apply a force thereto when stored energy of the first biasing element is released to cause forward projection of the cannula assembly. A first mechanism of the needle has a first component associated with a proximal end of the inner cannula that is received within the inner housing member and a second component associated with the inner housing to cause controlled rotation of the inner cannula relative to the outer cannula after the cannula assembly is projected a predetermined distance. |
| US09211110B2 |
Lung ventillation measurements using ultrasound
An ultrasound-based system determines dynamic strain measurements over a surface using ultrasound speckle analysis that allows for accurate measurement of surface area displacement. The system additionally determines an approximate displacement along a third axis, the z-axis. From these, an estimation of a local volume change is determined. In this way, a volume change can be determined for the lung or any other region of interest. |
| US09211106B2 |
Coupling an ultrasound probe to the skin
A tape for securing an ultrasound probe to the skin may include a sonolucent silicone gel for transmitting ultrasound from an ultrasound transducer to the body. A method of manufacturing an adhesive silicone product may include a step of treating the adhesive composition or components of the composition to remove air or prevent the formation of air bubbles, in order to provide a sonolucent adhesive product. |
| US09211104B2 |
Selection method for two contrast media for use in a dual-energy CT examination, contrast media combination and generation of CT images using a contrast media combination and different energy spectra
A method is disclosed for selecting two contrast agents to be used in a dual energy CT examination of a patient. In at least one embodiment, the method includes determining the gradient of a connecting line between a first material or a first tissue type and a second material or second tissue type in an HU value diagram of the energy-specific HU values, selecting a first contrast agent with an enhancement gradient which is significantly greater than the determined base gradient, and selecting a second contrast agent, the enhancement of which lies in the significance region of the determined base gradient. A contrast agent combination selected in the fashion is also disclosed in at least one embodiment, as well as the generation of CT images using a contrast agent combination selected in the fashion and using different energy spectra. |
| US09211103B2 |
Systems and methods for generating an osteoarthritis progression predictor and systems and methods for using the predictor
Example systems and methods of generating an indicator of osteoarthritis (OA) progression are described. Fractal dimension curves are generated for horizontal and vertical trabecular components associated with a region of interest of a joint image. A statistical model is used to model shapes of the fractal dimension curves and a predictor of OA progression is calculated based on shape parameters of the statistical model. |
| US09211101B2 |
Method and apparatus for real-time mechanical and dosimetric quality assurance measurements in radiation therapy
A method and device for real-time mechanical and dosimetric quality assurance measurements in radiation therapy provides a unified measurement of mechanical motion and radiation components of the machine. The device includes an imaging surface for receiving multiple energy sources. The imaging surface has an imaging plane positioned on a same plane as an isocenter of a medical accelerator. A camera measures and records data related to the multiple energy sources. A mirror system can be used to direct the multiple energy sources to the camera for further processing. However, in some instances the mirror system may not be necessary. Accordingly, a single device can be used to unify the measurement of mechanical motion and radiation component of the machine. The device can also include computer control in order to automate the movement of the device and/or automation of the QA protocol. |
| US09211098B2 |
Anatomical support facilitating medical imaging of the hip, leg and knee
An anatomical support is provided for facilitating the medical imaging of a patient's hip, leg or knee. The anatomical support has an operatively horizontal pelvis support panel to one edge of which is attached an edge of a thigh locating panel by a hinged attachment and that has attached to an opposite edge thereof by another hinged attachment, a calf or foot support panel. The pelvis support panel has anchorage attachments for a pelvis restraint, and the thigh locating panel has anchorage attachments for a thigh restraint. Locking means are provided for locking the calf or foot support panel in adjustable positions in which it is generally parallel to the pelvis support panel but horizontally displaced therefrom. At least appropriate areas of the calf or foot support panel, the thigh locating panel and the pelvis support panel are made of radiolucent material. |
| US09211092B2 |
End of life detection for analyte sensors
Systems and methods for processing sensor data and end of life detection are provided. In some embodiments, a method for determining the end of life of a continuous analyte sensor includes evaluating a plurality of risk factors using an end of life function to determine an end of life status of the sensor and providing an output related to the end of life status of the sensor. The plurality of risk factors may be selected from the list including the number of days the sensor has been in use, whether there has been a decrease in signal sensitivity, whether there is a predetermined noise pattern, whether there is a predetermined oxygen concentration pattern, and error between reference BG values and EGV sensor values. |
| US09211089B2 |
Optical blood glucose detecting apparatus and operating method thereof
An optical blood glucose detecting apparatus and an operating method thereof are disclosed. The optical blood glucose detecting apparatus includes a detecting module, an assisting and strengthening module, and a data processing module. The detecting module provides an incident optical signal passing through a detected portion of skin surface into a skin interstitial fluid, captures a blood glucose optical reflection message of the skin interstitial fluid, and it interferes the blood glucose optical reflection message and the incident optical signal to generate a detected data. The assisting and strengthening module provides a physical or chemical effect on a tissue region under the detected portion to strengthen the blood glucose optical reflection message. The data processing module processes the detected data to determine a blood glucose concentration. |
| US09211084B2 |
Medical guidance system and control method of medical device
A medical guidance system and a control method of a medical device are provided, which may increase the drive force of a medical device and improve controllability thereof. The medical guidance system has a medical device that includes a biologic information acquisition unit that acquires biologic information of the inside of a body cavity and a magnet that generates drive force in response to a magnetic field exerted from the outside of a body, a magnetic field generation unit 101 that generates the magnetic field to be exerted on the magnet from the outside of a body, and a displacement detection unit 105 that detects displacement being an angle formed between the magnetization direction of the magnet and the field direction of the magnetic field generated by the magnetic field generation unit 101 at the position of the medical device; wherein the magnetic field generation unit 101 is controlled based on the displacement. |
| US09211081B2 |
Method for non-contrast enhanced magnetic resonance angiography
A method for non-contrast enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (“MRA”) that has a short scan time and is insensitive to patient motion is provided. More particularly, the method provides significant arterial conspicuity and substantial venous signal suppression. A two-dimensional single shot acquisition is employed and timed to occur a specific time period after the occurrence of an R-wave in a contemporaneously recorded electrocardiogram. In this manner, k-space data is acquired that is substantially insensitive to variations in arterial flow velocity, or heart rate, and that further substantially suppresses unwanted venous signal in a prescribed imaging slice. |
| US09211080B2 |
Method for performing a physiological analysis with increased reliability
A method for performing an electrophysiological analysis implemented in a system includes: a series of electrodes to be placed on different regions of the human body; a DC voltage source controlled so as to produce DC voltage pulses; a switching circuit for selectively connecting the active electrodes to the voltage source, the active electrodes forming an anode and a cathode, and for connecting at least one other high-impedance passive electrode used to measure the potential reached by the body; and a measuring circuit for reading data representative of the current in the active electrodes, and data representative of the potentials generated on at least certain high-impedance electrodes in response to the application of the pulses, the data allowing a value to be determined for the electrochemical conductance of the skin. The method also regenerates a high-impedance electrode connected to the voltage source as a cathode. |
| US09211070B2 |
Evaluation of peripheral arterial disease in a patient using an oscillometric pressure signal obtained at a lower extremity of the patient
Systems, methods, and products for determining indicated blood pressure values and/or characterizing a condition of a patient. The systems, methods, and products are capable of determining indicated blood pressure values in a lower extremity of a patient using an oscillometric technique. An oscillometric signal obtained from the lower extremity of the patient is analyzed, and the patient may be classified into one of a plurality of diagnostic classes. Each diagnostic class may have an associated ratio value. Based on the diagnostic class into which the patient is classified, a selected lower extremity characteristic ratio may be selected. A lower extremity indicated blood pressure value may be obtained by oscillometric processing using the selected ratio. This lower extremity indicated blood pressure value may be used with an upper extremity indicated blood pressure value to perform an extremity blood pressure ratio (EBPR) examination. |
| US09211068B2 |
Object information acquiring apparatus and object information acquiring method
Disclosed is an object information acquiring apparatus including: a receiver that includes a plurality of elements and converts an acoustic wave generated from an object irradiated with light into a received signal, and outputs the received signal in a time series; a normalizer that generates a normalized signal by normalizing the intensity of the received signal; and a processor that generates, from the normalized signal, first image data that indicates the distribution of property information inside the object. |
| US09211062B2 |
Optical coherence tomographic imaging apparatus and method for controlling the same
An optical coherence tomographic imaging apparatus includes a movement amount acquisition unit configured to acquire the amount of subject's eye movement based on a plurality of images of the subject's eye acquired at different times, a determination unit configured to determine whether the amount of subject's eye movement before a scan by the scanning unit exceeds a threshold value, and a control unit configured to, in a case the amount of subject's eye movement before the scan is equal to or smaller than the threshold value, control the scanning unit to perform scanning position correction between a scan and the next scan based on the amount of movement. |
| US09211059B2 |
Systems and methods for optimizing and maintaining visualization of a surgical field during the use of surgical scopes
A view optimizing assembly, method and kit for use in combination with a laparoscope having a lens located on the shaft tip of the laparoscope, and a source of insufflation CO2. The invention includes a multi-lumen sheath assembly, a deflector assembly in fluid communication with the lumens of the sheath assembly, wherein the flow of CO2 through the lumens forms a vortex when coming into contact with the deflector assembly, thereby preventing fogging of the laparoscope lens. |
| US09211056B2 |
Medical apparatus to support an endoscopic investigation
A medical apparatus to support an endoscopic investigation that includes a housing with a base surface, a front surface and a rear surface, and a light source that is positioned in the housing to generate light to illuminate an object that is to be investigated with an endoscope. In addition the medical apparatus includes a coupling device to couple a proximal end of an endoscope on the medical apparatus and to transmit light from the medical apparatus to the endoscope. The medical apparatus includes a screen, which is positioned on the front surface of the housing to observe an image taken by means of the endoscope, where the front surface and rear surface are each inclined toward the rear at an angle between 5 and 15 degrees with respect to a plane perpendicular to the base surface. |
| US09211055B2 |
Capsule type medical device
A capsule type medical device having a substrate section that includes at least a single layer substrate; an antenna conductor that is arranged on and closely attached to at least one surface of the substrate section; a transmitting circuit that is arranged on the one surface of the substrate section within an area surrounded by the antenna conductor; and a plurality of lands that are arranged to another surface of the substrate section, and electrically connected with the transmitting circuit. |
| US09211054B2 |
Endoscope tip part and endoscope
An endoscope tip part has impact resistance even when applied to a thin endoscope, and the light distribution characteristics thereof can be improved even at a wide angle of view. An endoscope tip part includes a tip part main body that is attached to the tip of an insertion section of an endoscope and a positive-power transparent-plastic tip lens that is integrated with the tip part main body through two-color molding. The tip lens is a lens that is located closest to an object, among optical elements constituting an illumination optical system of the endoscope, and the tip part main body is provided with an insertion hole into which two positive-power rear lenses that will be disposed behind the tip lens are inserted. |
| US09211048B2 |
Dampened pump assembly for a dishwasher
A dishwasher incorporates a dampened pump assembly including a housing having a base to which is mounted a pump and motor unit configured to develop a flow of washing fluid during operation of the dishwasher. A mass damper is mounted to the housing, with the mass damper substantially conforming to the shape, directly abutting and being rigidly fixed to a portion of the housing at a position offset from the pump and motor unit. The mass damper provides added weight, generally in the order of 1-6 lbs, to the pump assembly which reduces vibrations throughout the dishwasher caused by operation of the pump and motor unit. |
| US09211047B2 |
Rotating filter for a dishwashing machine
A dishwasher with a tub at least partially defining a washing chamber, a liquid spraying system for spraying liquid within the washing chamber, a liquid recirculation system defining a recirculation flow path, and a liquid filtering system. The liquid filtering system includes a rotating filter disposed in the recirculation flow path to filter the liquid. |
| US09211039B2 |
Cooking utensil with stab and catch detachable handle
A cooking utensil has a food container, such as a cooking basket, and a lift bracket attached the sidewall of the food container. The lift bracket includes a riser portion having a catch opening and an outwardly extending upper ledge portion having an insertion opening in vertical plane alignment with the catch opening of the riser portion. A lift handle engages the lift bracket on the food container through the insertion opening in the lift bracket. An inwardly projecting catch tip on the engagement end of the lift handle can be made to catch the catch opening in the riser portion of the lift bracket when the lift bracket engagement end of the lift handle is fully inserted in the lift bracket. When the food container is lifted by the handle, the weight of the food container will maintain the engagement of the lift handle and lift bracket. |
| US09211031B1 |
Egg cooking system
An egg cooking system features a rectangular reservoir pan and an egg white pan with a cover. The egg white pan features one doubly pivoting handle located on an egg white pan first side top edge. The egg white pan nests in the reservoir pan and has a gap located between an exterior surface of the egg white pan and an interior surface of the reservoir pan. The system features a rectangular planar egg dicer having a plurality of dicer blades located on a perpendicular grid pattern. The system features a yolk cooker having a plurality of first hemispherical yolk holders located on a yolk cooker first side and a plurality of second hemispherical yolk holders are located on a yolk cooker second side. The yolk cooker first side is pivotally located on the yolk cooker second side. |
| US09211029B2 |
Electric grill pan device with a separate power connection
An electric grill pan device includes a heating pan detachably mounted above a base. A socket is mounted in the base and includes a seat and an upper cover. A compartment is defined between the upper cover and the seat. The upper cover includes a plurality of insertion holes aligned with terminals on the seat. The upper cover further includes a notch aligned with an abutment peg on the heating pan. A shield is pivotably mounted in the compartment and includes a guiding portion aligned with the abutment peg. The shield is biased to a position covering the insertion holes. When the heating pan is mounted to the base, the abutment peg presses against the guiding portion and pivots the shield to another position not covering the insertion holes, and conductive ends of a heating element on the heating pan is in electrical contact with the terminals. |
| US09211025B1 |
Postal cube
A device configured to securely and automatically receive parcel is described. The device is equipped with a front door and an automatic top rolling door in order to accommodate parcel delivery via conventional parcel delivery personnel, or delivery via airlift from an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The device is also equipped with a secure internet connection which facilitates communication between recipient and delivery personnel, as well as expedites the delivery confirmation process upon parcel delivery. Audio and video capture and transmission equipment on-board the device permit the recipient to remotely provide access to the device upon authentication of identity and/or credentials. |
| US09211023B1 |
Garment hanging system
A garment hanging system for safely hanging a long garment from a structure such as a door without the garment coming into contact with the floor or the surface of the door. The garment hanging system generally includes a bracket, a mounting portion extending from a first end of the bracket and an extension member extending from a second end of the bracket. The mounting portion extends downwardly from the bracket and includes a hook for holding a garment or accessory. The extension member extends upwardly and diagonally from the bracket such that any garment stored on a hook thereof will not contact the ground. An adjustment member may be positioned within the bracket to alter its effective width to match a wide range of doors. |
| US09211022B2 |
Compartmentalized bed skirt assembly
A compartmentalized bed skirt assembly for use over a box spring of a bed being formed with a top portion generally configured in a rectangular shape that conventionally covers the box spring portion of a mattress set fitting between the box spring and the mattress. Vertically extended portions are secured to the top portion of the bed skirt and extends downward to the floor on two sides and at the foot end of the bed. The vertically extended portions forms a series of panels or flaps that touch or slightly overlaps an adjacent flap, each flap being totally independent from the adjacent flap to allow lifting of the flap to the point of touching the mattress that rests on top of the box spring. The lifting of a panel or flap does not cause lifting of the adjacent panel or flap. |
| US09211021B2 |
Display hutch
A collapsible, easy-to-assemble corrugated hutch for shipping and displaying products is provided. The hutch comprises a back wall, two side walls, shelves and two side wall supports. The side walls are hingedly attached to the back wall and can be folded to capture the side wall supports. The shelves extend between the side walls and have front edges that are supported by the side walls and side wall supports. |
| US09211020B2 |
Interlocking compartments for display unit
The invention relates to interlocking compartments which are assembled to form a display unit. In some embodiments, the interlocking compartments include a first compartment and a second compartment having a top surface, a bottom surface and a rear surface. The bottom surface of the second compartment includes a tongue and the top surface of the first compartment includes a groove for receiving the tongue. The rear surface of the second compartment includes a projection and the rear surface of the first compartment and the top surface of the first compartment form a corner having an indentation for receiving the projection. In some embodiments, the length of the bottom surface of the first compartment is greater than the length of the bottom surface of the second compartment, and the length of the bottom surface of the second compartment is greater than the length of the bottom surface of the third compartment. |
| US09211016B2 |
Electric wall bed and leg extender
An apparatus includes a rack plate 202 with a T-shaped slot 206 and upright protrusions 204 and is movable relative to a frame 106 between first, second, and third positions. A pinion plate 302 rotatably coupled to the frame 106 includes upright extensions 304 and a lock pin 306 movable within the slot 206. In the first position, the lock pin 206 is positioned in a first location within the slot 206, and as the rack plate 202 moves from the first to the second position, a first extension 304A engages a first protrusion 204A, which rotates the pinion plate 302. In the second position, the lock pin 306 is positioned in a second location within the slot 206, and as the rack plate 202 moves from the second position to the third position, a second extension 304B engages a second protrusion 204B and rotates the pinion plate 302. |
| US09211015B2 |
Chair with ball-casters
A chair is mounted on ball-casters. Each leg of the chair is mounted on a caster wheel that is surrounded by a ring of small metal balls, such as ball bearings, enabling the chair to roll freely without scuffing or scratching the floor or dulling the floor polish, and making it virtually impossible for the occupant to lean back in the chair with any stability. |
| US09211014B2 |
Composite body support member and methods for the manufacture and recycling thereof
A body support structure includes a molded polymeric support grid having a three-dimensional molded contour. The support grid includes a body support region having a plurality of through openings separated by a plurality of lands. In one embodiment, an area of the openings is greater than an area of the lands. In another embodiment, the ratio of a surface area of the lands relative to an area defined by an outer peripheral edge is less than or equal to 0.74. A fabric layer is bonded to the plurality of lands and covers the plurality of openings. Methods of manufacturing and recycling the body structure are also provided. |
| US09211009B2 |
Apparatus for storing and retrieving varying shaped and sized spice bottles or containers
A portable spice rack that comprises a square or rectangular shaped housing and a plurality of spice drawers which are stacked vertically within the housing. The spice drawers provide a plurality of compartments that are uniquely designed to accommodate storing and retrieving varying shaped and sized spice bottles or other types of containers. Specifically, the spice drawer provides a substantially rectangular compartment having a base further providing a slot formed by an opening and opposed supporting walls. The rectangular compartment and slot within the base coact to enable, in particular, square, rectangular, and/or circular spice bottles or containers, or any combination thereof, to be stored and retrieved at the same time within any of the plurality of compartments within the spice rack. |
| US09211005B2 |
Storage systems
A furniture article that comprises a furniture housing which is configured to rest on a surface, and a cord-retractor that is configured to supply power from a wall outlet to an outlet located in or on the furniture housing. |
| US09211000B1 |
Walker attachable tray
A walker attachable tray preferably includes a tray base, a mounting bracket and a pair of support rings. The tray base includes a raised peripheral rim. The mounting bracket includes a base member, at least one mounting flange and a cross bar hook. The mounting bracket is attached to a bottom of the tray base. A pin opening is formed in each end of the base member. The at least one mounting flange preferably extends from an edge of the base member and upward. The cross bar hook preferably extends from an opposing edge of the base member and downward. Each support ring includes a ring portion, a retention pin and a set screw. The ring portion includes an inner diameter. The retention pin extends upward from the ring portion. The pair of support rings are retained on a pair of handles of a four wheel walker. |
| US09210992B2 |
Beverage bottle and retaining clip assembly
A wearable beverage bottle retaining clip includes: a back wall, including a top portion, bottom portion, a front face, and a rear face; two shoulder tabs, each extending in front of the top portion of the back wall such that a first end of each shoulder tab is located in front of the front face of the back wall, wherein the shoulder tabs are at least partially hook-shaped and the first end of each shoulder tab is spaced apart across a width of the back wall; and a retaining seat extending in front of the bottom portion of the front face of the back wall, wherein the retaining seat includes a bottom tab that is configured such that when a beverage bottle is secured in the retaining clip, the bottom tab is in contact with the front face of the beverage bottle. |
| US09210991B2 |
Apparatus and method for keeping mobile devices warm in cold climates
An apparatus and method for keeping mobile devices warm in cold climates are disclosed. A particular embodiment includes: a frame structure wherein a first portion of the frame structure being in proximity to the body of a user to receive body heat from the user, the frame structure including a second portion to support electronic components of the apparatus; and a thermal conduit thermally coupled between the first and second portions of the frame structure, the thermal conduit transferring body heat received at the first portion to the electronic components of the apparatus at the second portion. |
| US09210990B2 |
Multi-chamber fluid containers
Embodiments of fluid containers are described that include a multi-chambered fluid bladder and a sealing mechanism for selectively sealing off different chambers from each other for independent use, such as for two different kinds of fluids, or opening to fluidly connect different chambers to each other to form larger chambers for a common fluid. Embodiments can further include independent fill ports and outlet ports for each chamber. The sealing mechanism can comprise a clip or latch that is configured to clamp the fluid passageway in the bladder closed. Some embodiments can include a removable handle that attaches to the bladder and includes the sealing mechanism. |
| US09210988B2 |
Adjustable cosmetic applicator
An adjustable cosmetic applicator including a handle unit adapted to be used as a cap coupled to a cosmetic container body; a rod unit adapted to be manipulated by means of the handle init; and an applying unit adapted to be operated cooperatively with the rod unit in such a manner as to be adjusted in angle. The adjustable cosmetic applicator allows the angle of the applying unit to be adjusted arbitrarily by means of the user, thereby permitting the cosmetic liquid to be applied in more natural and comfortable manners and further achieving the make-up according to the user's applying habit or preference. |
| US09210987B2 |
Airless cosmetics applicator with airtight sealing dual cap
An airless applicator may deliver high/low viscosity liquids or semi-liquids, and contains a valve controlling flow between a product reservoir and an intermediate pooling area, while a narrow opening between the intermediate pooling area and a product dispensing chamber controls flow therebetween. This arrangement prevents backflow to the product reservoir, precluding an influx of contamination therein. Product delivery is by specially adapted applicator heads. In one embodiment, a plurality of prongs, and openings into the product dispensing chamber, permit application of mascara onto eyelashes. Alternating prong heights increases effectiveness in applying mascara onto all sides of a user's lashes. Other applicator heads are configured for lip product applications such as for lipstick, and for eye products such as eyeliner and eye shadow. An air-tight sealing cap having a spring biased inner cap member may prevent moisture from escaping from the product dispensing chamber and prevent entry of contaminants therein. |
| US09210985B2 |
Electromechanical system for dispensing deodorant / antiperspirant
Apparatus is described for use with a container for dispensing a composition including a deodorant and/or an antiperspirant, the container including a movable platform. The apparatus includes a container holder, which includes: an upper portion, which includes one or more user input elements; and a lower portion, including a driving unit and a power source. The power source is operative to drive the driving unit to move the movable platform of the container, in response to actuation of the one or more user input elements. Other applications are also described. |
| US09210982B2 |
Liquid-dispensing comb
The liquid-dispensing comb includes a liquid reservoir in the handle and/or spine thereof, with the teeth of the comb being hollow to allow liquid to flow from the reservoir into the teeth. Outlets are provided along the sides of the teeth rather than at their distal tips, to distribute liquid to the hair strands as the comb is passed therethrough, rather than to the scalp of the person using the comb. Various embodiments include pneumatic devices for pressurizing the reservoirs of the combs, thus forcing liquid to flow from the outlets along the sides of the teeth. Another embodiment includes an internal plate with a series of stops thereon, the stops fitting into corresponding passages at the bases of the teeth. A handle extends from the spine of the comb, enabling the user to manipulate the internal plate to control flow from the reservoir and into the teeth. |
| US09210981B2 |
Automatic head care device and automatic head care method
An automatic head care device includes independently rotated first rotational driving shaft and second rotational driving shaft, a first link having one end fixed to the first rotational driving shaft, a second link having one end rotatably connected to another end of the first link, a third link having one end fixed to the second rotational driving shaft, a fourth link having one end rotatably connected to another end of the third link, a working shaft rotatably connecting another end of the second link to another end of the fourth link, a working body caring the person's head, the working body being rotatably supported by the working shaft, and a control unit controlling rotation of the first rotational driving shaft and the second rotational driving shaft. |
| US09210979B2 |
Convenient key solution
A key holder for holding a variety of different physical keys and wireless key devices can comprise a container for holding insert components that are selectively removable and addable to the container. The insert components can comprise one or more key blades that are attached to the container such that a portion of each of the one or more key blades angularly rotates out of the container when in use. Additionally, one or more buttons can be integrated into the container. The buttons are configured to lock one or more of the insert components into place. The holder can also comprise a wireless module that is in communication with a processing unit disposed within the key container. |
| US09210976B2 |
Apparatus for carrying portable electronic devices of a wide range of sizes
An adjustable apparatus (e.g., a case or sleeve) for carrying a portable electronic device may include a back wall, a right wall, a left wall, and a front wall. The back wall may include right, left, bottom and top edges. The right, left and front walls may each include a free end and an attached end opposite the free end. The right wall's attached end may be joined to the back wall closer to the right edge than the left edge. The left wall's attached end may be joined to the back wall closer to the left edge than the right edge. The front wall's attached end may be joined to the back wall closer to the bottom edge than the top edge. The free ends of the right and left walls may be repeatably and adjustably coupled to the front wall via securing features, such as hook-and-loop fasteners. |
| US09210975B2 |
Laptop saddlebag
A person conveying a laptop computer will frequently need to use this computer in less that ideal circumstances. A saddlebag, unlike ordinary laptop carry cases, functions as a multipurpose tool as well as a safe conveyance so the person carrying it can be more productive in less than ideal circumstances. It's a sleeve, not a bag, allowing for instant laptop access from either side. The inner sides of the sleeve are padded, but each side can unsnap to pull out independently—one functioning as a lap desk and the other as a white board. A briefcase is attached to one side of the saddlebag and two gadget bags to the other side, any of which can unsnap for independent use. It includes a series of quickly accessible pockets to hold the small tools and devices that one would ordinarily keep on his/her regular desk. |
| US09210973B2 |
Gemstone cut grading method and apparatus
A system for controlling the cut of a gemstone includes a gemstone scanner adapted to scan a plurality of facets of an actual gemstone so as to determine facet parameters pertaining to each one of the plurality of facets. The system also includes a control module operatively coupled to the gem scanner and adapted to receive the determined facet parameters of the plurality of facets of the gemstone. The control module generates an actual 3D model of the actual gemstone from determined facet parameters and an idealized 3D model for an idealized gemstone. The control module compares the actual 3D model with the idealized 3D model to determine leakage values for facet parameters of each one of the facets of the gemstone such that the leakage value is used to control the cut of the gemstone. A method implemented by the system is also disclosed. |
| US09210972B2 |
Free-standing non-planar polycrystalline synthetic diamond components and method of fabrication
A free-standing non-planar polycrystalline CVD synthetic diamond component which comprises a nucleation face and a growth face, the nucleation face comprising smaller grains than the growth face, the nucleation face having a surface roughness Ra no more than 50 nm, wherein the free-standing non-planar polycrystalline CVD synthetic diamond component has a longest linear dimension when projected onto a plane of no less than 5 mm and is substantially crack free over at least a central region thereof, wherein the central region is at least 70% of a total area of the free-standing non-planar polycrystalline CVD synthetic diamond component, wherein the central region has no cracks which intersect both external major faces of the free-standing non-planar polycrystalline CVD synthetic diamond component and extend greater than 2 mm in length. |
| US09210971B2 |
Clasp for a watch bracelet or a garment belt
Clasp for a watch bracelet or for a garment belt comprising at least two unfolding arms articulated to each other; a first unfolding arm comprises a first end attached to a bracelet strand and a second end pivotally articulated to a first end of a second unfolding arm; a second end of the second unfolding arm is traversed by an arbour about which there is articulated a cover provided with first and second flaps and to which another bracelet strand is attached; the clasp also comprises a push button fastening system, characterized in that at least one push button controls a bolt pivotally mounted on the cover; the bolt comprises a first hook devised to cooperate with a second hook fitted to the first unfolding arm and to keep said second hook locked when the push button is not being manually activated, the first hook being kept engaged with the second hook by an elastic means. |
| US09210967B2 |
Sole structure with traction elements
A sole structure for an article of footwear may include a frame member having a continuous opening with portions located in forefoot, midfoot and hindfoot regions. A plurality of primary traction elements may extend outward from the frame member. A compressible midsole may be bonded to upper surfaces of the frame member. A flexible support plate may be bonded to the midsole. The flexible support plate may span substantially all of the frame member opening and have a lower surface exposed in at least a forefoot region. The support plate may be isolated from the frame member by the compressible midsole. A plurality of secondary traction elements may be integral to and extend outward from the exposed lower surface of the support plate. |
| US09210962B2 |
Reinforcement structure of safety helmet and manufacturing method thereof
A reinforcement structure of safety helmet and a manufacturing method thereof. The reinforcement structure includes a helmet body formed of a cushion foam material; and a structure body integrated with the helmet body. The structure body is a texture at least composed of multiple strip members arranged in an array. The structure body is formed with a substantially cellular structure. The helmet body is defined with a top section and a peripheral section and the structure body is defined with a first section and a second section connected to the first section corresponding to the top section and peripheral section of the helmet body. The cushion foam material is injected into a molding module to enclose the first and second sections to form an integrated complex reinforcement structure, which is easier to manufacture and has higher structural strength, lighter weight and higher security. |
| US09210959B1 |
Selectively decorative clothing article
Selectively decorative clothing articles are provided with one or more anchor points for removably coupling decorative elements thereto. Anchor points include a throughhole and may be reinforced with a grommet. A fastener may be inserted into and supported within the throughhole and/or grommet. The fastener may be two pieces threadably engaged and providing a receiving aperture configured to receive a coupling member such as a jeweler's clip. |
| US09210954B1 |
Bib for relieving a fever
The bib for relieving a fever is a child-care accessory adapted for us in caring for an infant or small child. The bib for relieving a fever is a bib that can be secured around the neck of a child or a caretaker. The bib contains a cold pack that) prevents heat transfer from the caretaker to the child when the child is being held, and helps to cool the child. The bib for relieving a fever includes a bib and a cold pack. |
| US09210953B2 |
Article of clothing having magnetic fastening assemblies
An article of clothing, such as a dress shirt, blouse, coat or jacket, includes a sheet of material forming a body portion. First and second plackets are formed along respective first and second end portions of the sheet of material. First and second magnetic elements are secured inside first and second pockets, respectively, such that positions of the plurality of second magnetic elements correspond to positions of the plurality of first magnetic elements. |
| US09210951B2 |
Tobacco cut filler including cut rolled stems
A tobacco cut filler for a smoking article comprises at least 5% by weight of cut rolled tobacco stems having a mean cut width of 0.1 mm to 0.2 mm and a mean cross-sectional area of between 0.12 and 0.15 square millimeters. The mean thickness of the cut rolled stems is preferably between 0.8 mm and 1.0 mm. |
| US09210947B2 |
Infant formulae and their preparations
The invention pertains to an infant formula powder composition comprising micronized lactose or lactose microcrystals (i) smaller than 30 micrometer, and/or (ii) of which at least 80% has a size less than 20 micrometer, and/or (iii) at least 80% has a size less than 10 micrometer, and/or (iv) having a median particle size D50 below 10 micrometer. The invention also pertains to the use of micronized lactose or lactose microcrystals for improving flow of an infant formula powder composition. |
| US09210944B2 |
Physical method for maintaining freshness of vegetables and fruits via technology of optical signal and optical signal generator
A physical method for maintaining the freshness of vegetables and fruits via the technology of the optical signal and optical signal generator are disclosed. By adopting the computer programmable pulsed scanning signal generator, it controls the light-emitting device mounted with red, green and blue light sources group to generate optical signal with pulsed or pulsed periodical scanning combined spectrum. The optical signal irradiates the fresh-cut fruits and vegetables preserved in the storage assembly at room temperature or at controlled temperature and humidity. By regulating the optical signal with periodical pulsed spectrum or pulsed scanning spectrum or periodical pulsed scanning combined spectrum, the irradiated vegetables and fruits obtain photon energy needed in light reactions of photosynthesis from the lighting environment of artificial optical signal which is in bright and dark periodic variation. The metabolism of the cellular tissue is thus recovered and maintained, and the growth inertia is kept at slow speed. It effectively prolongs the freshness state of vegetables and fruits which are preserved in the storage assembly. |
| US09210938B2 |
Methods for modulating photosynthetic activity
A method is provided for modulating transpiration in an organism that is capable of photosynthesis, where the method includes contacting the organism with a composition including an effective amount of an oxygen antagonist. Also provided is an apparatus for modulating transpiration in an organism that is capable of photosynthesis. |
| US09210936B2 |
Biocidal compositions and methods of use
Provided are biocidal compositions comprising: a hydroxymethyl-substituted phosphorus compound and 2-(decylthio)ethanamine compound. The compositions are useful for controlling microorganisms in aqueous or water-containing systems. |
| US09210934B2 |
Surface coating
A process for the preparation of an antimicrobial coating solution is described. The process comprises the steps of: (i) mixing a chelating agent with titanium alkoxide and fluoroacetic acid; and (ii) adding an aqueous solution to the mixture from step (i). The antimicrobial coating described is visible light activated. The coating is applied to surfaces and then heat treated to form a transparent layer on the surface. This is particularly advantageous where the surface is glass. |
| US09210929B2 |
Strigolactam derivatives as plant growth regulating compounds
The present invention relates to novel strigolactam derivatives of formula (I), to processes and intermediates for preparing them, to plant growth regulator compositions comprising them and to methods of using them for controlling the growth of plants and/or promoting the germination of seeds. |
| US09210928B2 |
Plant development control composition
A method of stimulating germination in plant seeds and/or releasing plant tissue or plant organs from dormancy, comprising applying to a seed, plant, plant organ or plant tissue a compound of formula (I): where: R1 is alkyl or H; R2, R3, R4 and R5 are independently selectable from H, halide, —NO2, —SO2R′, —OH, —Oalkyl where R′ is alkyl or aminoalkyl; and/or R1 and R5 are joined as —O(CH2)m—, where m is 1, 2, 3 or 4; R6 is a substituted or non-substituted alkyl, and/or substituted or non-substituted aryl; and n is an integer of 1 to 4. |
| US09210927B2 |
Pesticidal compositions and processes related thereto
This document discloses molecules having the following formula (“Formula One”): and processes associated therewith. |
| US09210926B2 |
Applications of microencapsulated essential oils
Method for the preparation of microencapsulated essential oils or a formulation thereof for various non-agricultural applications. |
| US09210925B2 |
Multipotent postnatal stem cells from human periodontal ligament and uses thereof
The invention generally relates to postnatal periodontal ligament stem cells and methods for their use. More specifically, the invention relates in one aspect to postnatal periodontal ligament multipotent stem cells, use of the cells to generate periodontium, differentiation of the cells and methods of tissue cryopreservation. |
| US09210924B1 |
Ecofriendly maritime pest management kit
An ecofriendly maritime pest management provides a compartmentalized and portable container for transporting an eclectic assortment of pest management devices insecticides, and baits. The ecofriendly maritime pest management kit has many novel features that enhance the capabilities to transport and compartmentalize pest management devices and nontoxic baits, and are useful for use on a maritime vessel on the ocean. The pest management devices and nontoxic baits articles are segregated into different compartments and color coded for quick access. The ecofriendly maritime pest management kit includes a mechanical pest entrapment device, a gimbally mounted container for containing a predetermined quantity of nontoxic insecticide, an insect repellant delivery device, an insect repellant solid composition, and a container for the insect repellant solid composition. The exterior pouches provides the option of carrying bait, sanitation gels, paper towels, contact information, medicine, or other articles beneficial for the management of pests on a maritime vessel. |
| US09210923B2 |
Spinning reel
A spinning reel configured to forwardly reel out a fishing line includes a handle, a spool, a rotor, an oscillating mechanism, a rotor drive mechanism, and a reel unit. The reel unit includes a fishing rod attachment leg, a chassis, a lid member, a reel unit guard, a protruding portion, and a restriction portion. The chassis has a mechanism attachment space to accommodate the oscillating mechanism and the rotor drive mechanism. The protruding portion protrudes towards at least one of the chassis and the lid member from an inner lateral surface of the reel unit guard. The restriction portion is disposed on at least of the chassis and the lid member. The restriction portion is engaged with the protruding portion to restrict the reel unit guard from moving in a direction away from the fishing rod attachment leg. |
| US09210922B2 |
Dual-bearing reel
A dual-bearing reel is attachable to a fishing rod and configured to forwardly reel out a fishing line in a forward direction. The dual-bearing reel includes a reel unit, a spool, a handle and an attaching member. The reel unit includes a first main body part and a second main body part. The first main body part includes a first lateral surface, a second lateral surface being opposite to the first lateral surface, and an attachment-side surface. The second main body part includes a third lateral surface facing the first lateral surface at a predetermined interval. The attaching member includes an attaching surface facing a first direction. The first main body part includes a recessed portion extending along a first boundary portion. The first boundary portion is between the attachment-side surface and the first lateral surface. The attachment-side surface faces the first direction. |
| US09210920B1 |
Fishing reel with improved line management and control system and clicker mechanism
A fishing reel designed to minimize line snag and simplify clicker operation. A frame mounted spool includes a forward flange defining a circumferential groove for receiving a smooth surfaced ring that is loosely mounted therein for minimizing line interaction. A spinner head assembly has pin arms that are pivotally secured to a rearward face. The pin arms present a substantially smooth rear surface for minimizing line snags. Pin springs are mounted on the opposite face of spinner head member and communicate with the pin arms via pin arm posts that extend through openings. An enclosure is affixed to the forward face of the spinner head for permitting the pin springs to have freedom of movement, but for enclosing pin springs and posts to prevent interaction with fishing line. A dual clicker passes through the frame for engaging the spool and the drag adjusting wheel. |
| US09210917B1 |
Bait-fish trap
An improved bait-fish trap includes a cylindrical, mesh shell having a continuous outer wall, a lower surface and an open upper end. The shell houses a mesh entrance cone having an upper base that is concentric with the open upper end of the shell, and a lower vertex in communication with an underlying entrapment chamber. A remotely controlled light module lures bait fish from the entrance cone into the entrapment chamber where they are held until removed via a releasable hatch. A capacity indicator automatically notifies a user when the entrapment zone is full of bait fish. |
| US09210916B2 |
Method of altering the nutrient composition of feeder insects
A method of altering the nutrient composition of a feeder insect during a growth phase of the feeder insect includes preparing a diet by mixing feed material with nutrients and feeding the diet to the feeder insect during the growth phase so as to allow tissues of the feeder insect to absorb the nutrients during growth of the feeder insect. The nutrients include vitamin E, carotenoids, vitamin A, and essential fatty acids. |
| US09210914B2 |
Method for training honeybees to respond to olfactory stimuli and enhancement of memory retention therein
A specialized conditioning protocol for honeybees that is designed for use within a complex agricultural ecosystem. This method ensures that the conditioned bees will be less likely to exhibit a conditioned response to uninfected plants, a false positive response that would render such a biological sensor unreliable for agricultural decision support. Also described is a superboosting training regime that allows training without the aid of expensive equipment and protocols for training in out in the field. Also described is a memory enhancing cocktail that aids in long term memory retention of a vapor signature. This allows the bees to be used in the field for longer durations and with fewer bees trained overall. |
| US09210912B1 |
Pet toy with hidden treat cavity
The present development is a toy for a pet having a housing and at least one rotatable member, wherein the toy has at least one hidden cavity for accommodating a treat. The rotatable member enhances the degree of difficulty for the pet to gain access to the cavity. |
| US09210910B2 |
Lettuce variety multired 54
The present invention relates to plants of a lettuce variety NUN 09054 LT (referred to as “MULTIRED 54”) and, seeds and progeny thereof. The invention further relates to methods for producing a lettuce plant by traditional breeding methods. Moreover, the invention relates to a method for producing a lettuce plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes. |
| US09210899B2 |
Soybean cultivar 37273791
A soybean cultivar designated 37273791 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar 37273791, to the plants of soybean cultivar 37273791, to the plant parts of soybean cultivar 37273791, and to methods for producing progeny of soybean cultivar 37273791. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. The invention also relates to soybean cultivars or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean cultivar 37273791. The invention also relates to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines, or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar 37273791, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing cultivar 37273791 with another soybean cultivar. |
| US09210891B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH492291
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH492291. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH492291, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH492291 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH492291. |
| US09210890B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH220700
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH220700. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH220700, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH220700 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH220700. |
| US09210889B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH191893
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH191893. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH191893, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH191893 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH191893. |
| US09210888B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH692448
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH692448. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH692448, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH692448 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH692448. |
| US09210887B2 |
Plants and seeds of corn variety CV208027
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the corn variety designated CV208027. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CV208027, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CV208027 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to corn seeds and plants produced by crossing plants of variety CV208027 with plants of another variety, such as another inbred line. The invention further relates to the inbred and hybrid genetic complements of plants of variety CV208027. |
| US09210886B2 |
Plants and seeds of corn variety CV410274
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the corn variety designated CV410274. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CV410274, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CV410274 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to corn seeds and plants produced by crossing plants of variety CV410274 with plants of another variety, such as another inbred line. The invention further relates to the inbred and hybrid genetic complements of plants of variety CV410274. |
| US09210881B2 |
Plants and seeds of corn variety CV511034
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the corn variety designated CV511034. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CV511034, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CV511034 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to corn seeds and plants produced by crossing plants of variety CV511034 with plants of another variety, such as another inbred line. The invention further relates to the inbred and hybrid genetic complements of plants of variety CV511034. |
| US09210879B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH448275
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH448275. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH448275, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH448275 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH448275. |
| US09210878B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH921588
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH921588. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH921588, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH921588 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH921588. |
| US09210876B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH651815
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH651815. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH651815, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH651815 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH651815. |
| US09210872B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH236451
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH236451. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH236451, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH236451 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH236451. |
| US09210864B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH558899
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH558899. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH558899, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH558899 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH558899. |
| US09210862B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH768004
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH768004. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH768004, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH768004 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH768004. |
| US09210860B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH856863
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH856863. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH856863, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH856863 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH856863. |
| US09210858B1 |
Maize inbred PH1DBV
A novel maize variety designated PH1DBV and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH1DBV with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH1DBV through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH1DBV or a locus conversion of PH1DBV with another maize variety. |
| US09210856B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH375393
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH375393. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH375393, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH375393 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH375393. |
| US09210855B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH091735
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH091735. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH091735, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH091735 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH091735. |
| US09210853B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH514800
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH514800. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH514800, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH514800 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH514800. |
| US09210850B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH430153
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH430153. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH430153, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH430153 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH430153. |
| US09210848B2 |
Guzmania hybrid ‘FALL’
A new and distinct Guzmania hybrid named ‘FALL’ characterized by solid growth habit; funnel-form rosette plant, measuring about 20-25 cm in height (above the pot when flowering); numerous, green color foliage (measuring about 25-30 cm length and about 3-3.5 cm in width) Superior floral bract production; bracts are red-purple in color (closest to RHS 59A) with a yellow colored tip at the top primary bracts (closest to RHS 13A), singular head inflorescence, measuring about 8 cm in height and about 18 cm in diameter; and long-lasting habit. |
| US09210845B2 |
Square baler having planetary plunger drive
A powered square baler is operable to form a bale by compressing loose material. The powered square baler broadly includes a chassis, a plunger assembly, and a plunger drive. The chassis includes a baler frame that presents a baling chamber to receive the loose material. The plunger assembly includes a reciprocating plunger head and a pair of connecting arms attached to the plunger head. The reciprocating plunger head is slidably mounted relative to the frame and is operable to reciprocate into and out of the chamber and apply a compressive force to the loose material. The plunger drive includes a pair of planetary gear trains and a common drive shaft that powers both of the gear trains, with each gear train drivingly connected to a corresponding one of the connecting arms to cooperatively power the plunger assembly. |
| US09210844B1 |
Agricultural combine harvester with grain loss optimization using threshing and cleaning assembly load imbalance
An agricultural combine has a threshing assembly for threshing a crop to produce chaff and grain, a cleaning assembly for removing the chaff from the grain, and a control system. The threshing assembly and the cleaning assembly operate at threshing and cleaning settings, respectively, for tending to produce a balance between a threshing load applied across the threshing assembly and a cleaning load applied across the cleaning assembly that tends to have a favorable influence on grain loss. The control system is for sensing an imbalance between the threshing load and the cleaning load tending to have an unfavorable influence on grain loss, and for concurrently adjusting the threshing and cleaning settings of the threshing and cleaning assemblies, respectively, for tending to convert the imbalance between the threshing and cleaning loads to a balance between the threshing and cleaning loads tending to have a favorable influence on grain loss. |
| US09210837B2 |
Roller cylinder and a band ring segment intended therefore
The invention relates to a roller cylinder (1) comprising band rings (6) which are attached to a center axis (17, 17a, 17b). The roller cylinder comprises at least two band ring segments (14, 14a, 14b) consisting of an outer, substantially circular portion (15), an inner portion (16) and a radial portion (18) extending substantially radially between the inner and outer portions, said inner portions of the band ring segments being fixed by means of fastening means, such as screws (19, 20, 19a, 20a, 21a, 19b, 20b, 21b), to the center axis and abut the center axis at least at the attachment points of the fastening means between the inner portion of the band ring segments and the center axis. The invention also relates to a band ring segment included in a roller cylinder provided with band rings. |
| US09215826B2 |
Electronic devices having multi-purpose cowling structures and a compass mounted on a flex circuit
Multi-purpose cowling structures are provided to minimize spacing impact within an electronic device, while maximizing functional utility. In one embodiment, an electromagnetic interference shield may provide one or more anchors for enabling a logic board cowling to apply sufficient downward force to one or more board connectors to prevent inadvertent disconnects. In another embodiment, a cowling can electrically connect the ground plane of a logic board to the ground plane of a housing member and provide a pre-load force to a conductor connection existing on logic board. A compass mounted on a flexible printed circuit board is also provided. Mounting the compass on a flexible printed circuit board enables the compass to be mounted remote from ferrous object that may affect the compass's performance. |
| US09215825B2 |
Gas insulated switchgear
A gas insulated switchgear includes a transformer mounting body; a bushing mounted on the transformer mounting body; and a main circuit conductor. The main circuit conductor includes a first main circuit conductor which is connected to a circuit breaker and is located in the bushing and a second main circuit conductor which is connected to the first main circuit conductor. An insulator extends below the lower end of the transformer mounting body and toward the vicinity of the connection between the first main circuit conductor and the second main circuit conductor, in a region where the first main circuit conductor is located in the transformer mounting body. A ground shield is arranged in the insulator, and extends below the lower end of the transformer mounting body and above a coupling portion between the transformer mounting body and the bushing. |
| US09215824B2 |
Server and indicating tag of the same
A server includes a main body and a plurality of indicating tags. The main body includes a plurality of electronic elements. A separating plate is located between each two adjacent electronic elements. The main body defines a plurality of engaging holes corresponding to the electronic elements. A gap is defined between the separating plate and the main body. The indicating tag includes a label plate and a mounting plate. One end of the mounting plate defines a through hole. The other end of the mounting plate forms an engaging portion. The engaging portion engages in the gap. The indicating tags can be fixed to the main body with screws extending through the through holes to engage in the engaging holes. |
| US09215822B2 |
Base station
A base station, includes: an electronic unit; a housing, including a resin, configured to accommodate the electronic unit; a valve, provided in the housing and including a communication channel communicating an inside of the housing with an outside, configured to open the communication channel if an internal pressure of the housing exceeds a value. |
| US09215814B2 |
Electronics assembly divider plate
Small form-factor pluggable (SFP) ports are often employed in telecommunications hardware to take advantage of their lower profile and to provide connections to other network elements. The use of SFP ports has increased the density of ports possible for a given circuit board size, but this increase has previously meant that individual ports are difficult to access. Also, identification of those ports is frustrated by a lack of free space to place labeling. Example embodiments of the present invention address these issues by placing a divider plate between columns of SFP ports that provides surface area adjacent to the SFP ports for affixing labeling. The divider plate is offset from the SFP ports to allow access when the plate is installed. As a result, hardware employing embodiments of the present invention can achieve a higher density of SFP ports with ease of access by personnel assembling or servicing the hardware. |
| US09215813B2 |
Method for recycling of obsolete printed circuit boards
Processes for recycling printed wire boards using environmentally-friendly compositions, wherein electronic components, precious metals and base metals may be collected for reuse and recycling. |
| US09215812B2 |
Support body, method of manufacturing support body, method of manufacturing wiring board, method of manufacturing electronic component, and wiring structure
A method of manufacturing a support body includes: (a) preparing a support substrate; (b) preparing a metal foil on which a peeling layer is provided; (c) providing an adhesion adjusting layer on the support substrate in a certain region of the support substrate excluding an outer peripheral portion of the support substrate, wherein the adhesion adjusting layer is configured to adjust a contact area between the peeling layer and the support substrate; and (d) providing the metal foil on the support substrate such that the peeling layer provided on the metal foil faces the support substrate via the adhesion adjusting layer. In step (d), the adhesion adjusting layer is adhered to the support substrate, and the peeling layer is adhered to the outer peripheral portion of the support substrate, and is in contact with the adhesion adjusting layer but is not adhered to the adhesion adjusting layer. |
| US09215805B2 |
Wiring board with built-in electronic component and method for manufacturing the same
A wiring board including a substrate having opening penetrating from first to second surfaces, an electronic component in the opening having first and second electrodes, a first insulation layer over the first surface, a second insulation layer over the second surface, a first via conductor in the first layer having bottom connected to the first electrode, a second via conductor in the first layer having bottom connected to the second electrode, a third via conductor in the second layer having bottom connected to the first electrode, and a fourth via conductor in the second layer having bottom connected to the second electrode. The first conductor is longer than the third conductor and has the bottom having greater width than the bottom of the third conductor, and the second conductor is longer than the fourth conductor and has the bottom having greater width than the bottom of the fourth conductor. |
| US09215804B2 |
Circuit stack structure
A circuit stack structure is provided. The circuit stack structure includes a conductor layer having metal wires arranged at intervals, propping portions respectively disposed in a gap between any two of the neighboring metal wires, and a protective layer covering the metal wires and the propping portions. The propping portions are electrically isolated with the metal wires. With supporting by the propping portions, all regions of a top surface of the protective layer corresponding to one of the propping portions are coplanar with all regions of the top surface of the protective layer corresponding to each of the metal wires. |
| US09215803B2 |
Epoxy resin composition and pre-preg, support-provided resin film, metallic foil clad laminate plate and multilayer printed circuit board utilizing said composition
The epoxy resin composition according to the present invention contains (A) a phosphorus-containing curing agent and (B) an epoxy resin, wherein the phosphorus-containing curing agent (A) is a phosphorus compound represented by the following Chemical Formula (1); an organic group represented by R in Chemical Formula (1) has two or more phenolic hydroxyl groups; and the organic group has a molecular weight of 190 or more: |
| US09215802B2 |
Wiring substrate and multi-piece wiring substrate
A wiring substrate includes a substrate body formed of a plate-like ceramic, having a front surface, a back surface, and a height of 0.8 mm or less; a cavity opening at the front surface and having a rectangular shape as viewed in plane; and side walls having a thickness of 0.3 mm or less between a side surface of the cavity and a side surface of the substrate body. The wiring substrate further includes an electrically conductive layer having the form of a frame and formed on the front surface to surround an opening of the cavity; a ceramic surface having the form of a frame and located adjacently to the electrically conductive layer and along the outer periphery of the front surface; and a via conductor formed in the substrate body along the side surface of the cavity between a bottom surface of the cavity and the front surface. |
| US09215794B2 |
Circuit board and display device
A display device and a circuit board for it are provided. The circuit board includes a bare copper region which is positioned corresponding to a chip of a driver IC of the display device; the bare copper region resists the chip and is configured to conduct away the heat generated from the chip. The display device comprises a circuit board, a driver IC electrically connected to the circuit board and fixed on the circuit board, and a display screen electrically connected to the driver IC. The following advantageous effects can be achieved: the circuit board has a bare copper region resisting the chip of the driver IC, which can effectively conduct away the heat generated from the driver IC to make the heat-dissipating effect of the display device better, and thereby extending the lifetime of the display device. |
| US09215783B2 |
Lighting module having surface light source and lighting system
A lighting system includes a master device for transmitting a light emission control command, and a plurality of lighting modules. Each of the plurality of lighting modules has a surface light source, receives the light emission control command, and drives and controls the surface light source in accordance with control data for its own, the control data being included in the received light emission control command. |
| US09215780B2 |
System and method for reducing peak and off-peak electricity demand by monitoring, controlling and metering lighting in a facility
A method of reducing electricity usage during peak demand periods includes the steps of establishing predetermined load reduction criteria representative of a desire by a power provider to reduce loading on an electricity supply grid, and coordinating with a facility having lighting equipment to permit the power provider to turn-off one or more of the lighting equipment by sending instructions to a master controller at the facility in response to the predetermined load reduction criteria, and establishing a list of lighting equipment to be turned-off in response to the instructions, and configuring the master controller to send an override control signal to the lighting equipment to implement the instructions, and configuring the lighting equipment to send a response signal to the master controller providing a status of the lighting equipment. |
| US09215776B2 |
Lighting equipment, illumination device and light emitting module
Lighting equipment 1 is provided that enables illumination light having a stable FCI to be obtained, without influence from the lighting conditions. To this end, a lighting circuit 4 performs control of lighting a first red light source R1 and lighting a white light source W while not lighting or faintly lighting a second red light source R2 under first lighting conditions in which the first red light source R1 is expected to produce red light with a first peak wavelength, and of lighting the second red light source R2 and lighting the white light source W while not lighting or faintly lighting the first red light source R1 under second lighting conditions in which the first red light source R1 is expected to produce the red light with a second peak wavelength that is shifted toward a longer wavelength relative to the first peak wavelength. |
| US09215768B2 |
Self-adjusting lighting driver for driving lighting sources and lighting unit including self-adjusting lighting driver
A lighting unit (100) includes light emitting diode (LED) modules (120, 300) and a lighting driver (110, 200) connected to the LED modules. Each LED module includes LEDs (323) and an identification current source (324) supplying an identification current to an identification current output node (180, 380). All of the identification current output nodes are connected together to supply a total identification current having a magnitude which changes in response to the number of LED modules that are connected to the lighting driver. The lighting driver includes: a controllable current source (220 & 250) to supply an LED driving current to the LEDs of the LED modules, and a controller (230) that responds to the total identification current to control the controllable current source to supply the LED driving current at a magnitude which changes in response to the number of LED modules that are connected to the lighting driver. |
| US09215765B1 |
Systems and methods for low-power lamp compatibility with an electronic transformer
In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, a system and method for providing compatibility between a load having a reactive impedance during steady-state operation and a secondary winding of an electronic transformer driven by a leading-edge dimmer may include a first circuit and a second circuit. The first circuit may cause the load to have a substantially non-reactive impedance when the first circuit is enabled. The second circuit may enable the first circuit to cause the load to have the substantially non-reactive impedance during a duration of time following start-up of the electronic transformer and disable the first circuit after the duration such that the load has the reactive impedance during steady-state operation of the load. |
| US09215759B2 |
Method for heating object using sheet-shaped heat and light source
The present disclosure relates to a method for heating an object. A sheet-shaped heat and light source is provided. The sheet-shaped heat and light source includes a carbon nanotube film curved to form a hollow cylinder, and at least two electrodes spaced from each other, located on a surface of the hollow cylinder and electrically connected to the carbon nanotube film. An object is located in the hollow cylinder. A voltage is supplied between the at least two electrodes. |
| US09215757B2 |
Temperature controller of a heating plate
A miniature temperature control structure for an electric heating piece contains a miniature temperature controller. The miniature temperature controller includes a circuit board on which a plurality of electronic parts are arranged, and the plurality of electronic parts at least has a microprocessor and an electrical contact portion disposed on the circuit board, the microprocessor has a thermostat program for setting a temperature value of each of a starting heating and a stopping heating based on requirement of an electric heating piece and for setting a heating time or a heating cycle time of the electric heating piece. Thereby, a size of the circuit board of the miniature temperature controller is decreased greatly to lower production cost of the electric heating piece and to carry the electric heating piece easily. |
| US09215752B2 |
Electronic device with through-display near field communication capability
An electronic device (200) includes a control circuit (304) disposed on a substrate (220). The control circuit is operable with a display (509), a near field communication circuit (201) and a wide area communication circuit (302). The near field communication circuit is operable with a near field communication circuit antenna (344). The wide area communication circuit is operable with one or more wide area communication circuit antennas (312). In a housing (511) of the electronic device, the substrate separates the near field communication antenna from the battery and the wide area network communication antenna. |
| US09215751B2 |
Mobile terminal with routing function for supporting multiple-mode access and implementation method thereof
The present disclosure discloses a mobile terminal with routing function for supporting multiple-mode access and implementation method thereof, which includes: an Asymmetrical Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) interface module is utilized for accessing ADSL wired broadband signals, a Third Generation (3G) interface module is utilized for accessing wireless broadband signals, a Wireless Fidelity (WIFI) module is utilized for establishing wireless local area network, a main control module establishes a first data transmission channel for connecting with the ADSL interface module, establishes a second data transmission channel for connecting with the 3G interface module, and controls the WIFI module to access the first data transmission channel or the second data transmission channel. According to the technical solutions of the present disclosure, realize the conversion from the wireless broadband signals or the wired ADSL signals to the WIFI signals, and therefore support multiple external terminals to access the network. |
| US09215746B1 |
Systems and methods for dynamically controlling active-to-dormant timers in radio access networks
Disclosed herein are systems and methods for dynamically controlling active-to-dormant timers in radio access networks (RANs). One embodiment takes the form of a method that involves a system detecting a triggering event, and responsively identifying a current access-channel occupancy (ACHO). The method further involves the system increasing an active-to-dormant timer for at least one access terminal when the identified current ACHO exceeds a first threshold, and decreasing an active-to-dormant timer for at least one access terminal when the identified current ACHO is less than a second threshold. |
| US09215744B2 |
Discontinuous transmission for a mobile phone network node
A mobile phone network node may determine traffic load associated with a mobile phone network and initiate discontinuous transmission at a frame level, based at least in part upon, determining that the traffic load is less than a first threshold. The mobile phone network node may further initiate discontinuous transmission at a subframe level, based at least in part upon, determining that the traffic load is greater than the first threshold and less than a second threshold and initiate discontinuous transmission at a symbol level, based at least in part upon, determining that the traffic load is greater than the second threshold. |
| US09215742B2 |
Method and apparatus for improving RRC connection procedure
The present invention provides a method for improving a Radio Resource Control (RRC) Connection procedure in user equipment (UE) of a wireless communication system. The method includes steps of performing an RRC Connection procedure, and resetting or re-establishing a lower layer protocol entity for Signaling Radio Bearers (SRBs) when a cell reselection occurs. |
| US09215740B2 |
Method and apparatus for generating control packet
A method of generating a control packet by using a first apparatus including a plurality of medium access control (MAC) layers, the method comprising: generating dynamic tone pairing (DTP) reception setup information indicating whether to receive DTP information for each of a plurality of links from a second apparatus; and generating a control packet including the DTP reception setup information. |
| US09215738B2 |
Network communication system and terminal
A network communication system has: a terminal performing communication through a wireless LAN; and a controller. The terminal retains flow SSID information indicating a correspondence relationship between each flow and SSID. When initiating communication of a new flow, the terminal transmits an allocation request to the controller. The allocation request requests for determination of an SSID to be used. In response to the allocation request, the controller determines an allocated SSID to be used regarding the new flow and notifies the terminal of allocation information indicating a correspondence relationship between the new flow and the allocated SSID. In accordance with the allocation information, the terminal registers the correspondence relationship between the new flow and the allocated SSID on the flow SSID information. The terminal refers to the flow SSID information and uses the allocated SSID corresponding to the new flow to connect to an access point of the wireless LAN. |
| US09215735B2 |
Systems and methods for initiating communications with contacts based on a communication specification
Disclosed herein are methods and systems for initiating communications with contacts based on a communication specification. According to an aspect, a method may include receiving a communication specification. The communication specification may include identification of one or more contacts, a communication persistence parameter, a geographic location, an event, a date, and a communication channel. The method may also include determining one or more contacts based on the communication specification. Further, the method may include initiating multiple communications with the contacts via at least one communication channel. A communication channel may be a telephone call, an email, a text message, an instant message, and the like. |
| US09215727B2 |
Multiplexing channels by a medium access controller
A code division multiple access (CDMA) communication device comprises a medium access controller (MAC) configured to receive data from a plurality of channels. Each channel is associated with a priority and an identifier. The MAC is further configured to multiplex the data of the plurality of channels for transmission over a CDMA channel based on the priority. |
| US09215725B2 |
Adjusting channel state information reports to improve multi-radio coexistence
In a multi-radio user equipment (UE) various techniques may be used to buffer communications for a first radio access technology (RAT). A low channel quality for a second RAT is reported. An indication to halt downlink communications of the second RAT based on the reported low channel quality is received. The buffered communications by the first RAT when the second RAT downlink communications are halted are transmitted. An indication to the second RAT is sent to resume normal channel quality reporting. |
| US09215721B2 |
Method and base station for handling radio resources
A method and a base station configured to serve a first cell in a cellular network, for supporting radio resource management in the cellular network. When receiving an indication of uplink interference experienced in a neighboring second cell, the base station identifies interfered bandwidth resources on which the interference is experienced, and detects that these resources coincide with resources that have been allocated to User Equipments, UEs, in the first cell. When the interfered bandwidth resources coincide with resources that have been allocated to cell edge UEs in the first cell, the base station allocates bandwidth resources separate from the interfered resources to the cell edge UEs. Further, when the interfered bandwidth resources coincide with resources allocated to cell center UEs in the cell, the base station applies power control for transmissions made by the cell center UEs on the interfered resources. |
| US09215720B2 |
LTE frequency channel avoidance
A method of reducing interference to reception of streams of television content received at a television receiver in which each of the streams of television content are transmitted on one of a plurality of frequency channels in accordance with a channel map which defines on which of the plurality of frequency channels each stream of television content is transmitted and the interference being caused by a base station transmitting data to or receiving data from one or more mobile devices via radio communication signals in a vicinity of the television receiver. The method includes identifying the channel map and adapting a transmission of the radio communication signals between the base station and the one or more of mobile devices in accordance with the identified channel map to reduce interference at the television receiver. |
| US09215714B2 |
Radio communication system, base station apparatus, terminal apparatus, and radio communication method in radio communication system
A radio communication system including: a first and second base station apparatuses which include one or more of sells or sectors respectively; and a terminal apparatus, wherein the first and second base station apparatuses and the terminal apparatus performs radio communication, the first and second base station apparatuses includes: a process unit which performs a scrambling process to a first and second transmission data respectively by using a common scrambling code when the first and second transmission data differing each of the cells or the sectors are transmitted to the terminal apparatus; and a transmission unit which transmits the scrambling processed first and second transmission data to the terminal apparatus respectively, and the terminal apparatus includes a reception unit which receives the first and the second transmission data and performs descrambling process to the first and the second transmission data by using the common scrambling code. |
| US09215709B2 |
Wireless communication system and wireless communication control method, wireless communication device and wireless communication method, and computer program
A wireless communication device in a wireless network sets management information notification cycles at specified time intervals and transmits management information containing receive timing information showing its own position to start receiving information, receive window information, and receive cycle information. Another wireless communication device receiving that management information links it to a communication device number for the corresponding wireless communication device and stores the receive timing, the receive window information, and the receive cycle information. When sending information, the receive start position of the corresponding communication device is found from the receive timing information, the receive window information, and the receive cycle information of the other communication and information is then transmitted at that timing. An asynchronous ad-hoc communication wireless network can therefore be configured without a particular control station. |
| US09215708B2 |
Method and apparatus for multi-network communication
The present disclosure describes techniques and apparatuses for multi-network communication. In some aspects a first packet is transmitted via a wireless interface effective to prevent a device associated with a first wireless network from transmitting data packets. The wireless interface is then configured for communication via a second wireless network for a first duration of time and a second packet is transmitted via the wireless interface. Transmission of the second packet is effective to cause a peer device associated with the second wireless network to transmit data packets during the first duration of time. The wireless interface is then configured for communication via the first wireless network for a second duration of time effective to enable reception of the data packets that the device was previously prevented from transmitting. |
| US09215707B1 |
Method and system for prioritizing time-division multiplexed communications resources at a femtocell
Methods and systems are provided for prioritizing time-division multiplexed communications resources at a femtocell. A femtocell initially provides time-division-multiplexed wireless service to a plurality of wireless communication devices (WCDs) using a first number of slots per cycle, each WCD in the plurality having at least one assigned slot. During the first time period, the femtocell detects a trigger. Responsive to detecting the trigger, the femtocell, in a second time period, switches to providing service using a second number of slots per cycle, the second number being less than the first number, such that a first WCD in the plurality does not have an assigned slot. |
| US09215706B2 |
Radio communication system, radio base station, and communication control method for interference reduction
An LTE base station (10-1) incorporates an initiation time for the measurement of the amount of interference and a measurement duration, which act as time information relating to the timing of the occurrence of interference, into load information (LI) messages, which act as interference control information, and transmits the LI messages to another LTE base station. Meanwhile, when the LTE base station (10-1) receives LI messages from another LTE base station, of the received LI messages, only LI messages in which the corresponding measurement duration period overlaps with the validity period are aggregated, and on the basis of the aggregate result, interference reduction control is carried out. |
| US09215700B2 |
Counter check and reconfiguration method, apparatus, and system
The present invention relates to a counter check and reconfiguration method, apparatus, and system. The method includes: sending a second identity information and a second count information to a terminal, so that the terminal compares, according to the second identity information, the second count information with third count information maintained by the terminal itself to obtain first comparison result information or second comparison result information; receiving the first comparison result information sent by the terminal, or the second identity information and second comparison result information sent by the terminal; and determining counter check result information according to the received first comparison result information, or the received second identity information and second comparison result information. Thereby, the present invention implements a counter check process and a reconfiguration process in a network architecture in which a primary base station is separated from a secondary base station. |
| US09215698B2 |
Communication terminal, base station, wireless communication system, control method and program therefor, and recording medium having control program recorded thereon
According to a control method of a wireless communication system in which wireless communication between a base station (12) and a communication terminal (11) is carried out by use of a plurality of discontinuous frequency bands, in a case where an onlyUL-CC having no existing corresponding DL-CC is present (S21), a communication quality of a DL-CC in a frequency band including the onlyUL-CC is measured as a communication quality of a DL-CC corresponding to the onlyUL-CC (S22) for the purpose of accurate control of the onlyUL-CC. |
| US09215694B2 |
Reference signals design for time tracking in LTE-A
Time tracking in current communication systems may be traditionally based on common reference signals (CRS). However, in certain communication systems, CRS-based time tracking may be impossible to implement due to an absence of CRS in certain subframes or carriers. CRS-based time tracking may also be inappropriate to implement in certain communication systems such as a coordinated multipoint (CoMP) system where control and data may arrive from different cells, and therefore, a UE may assume a wrong cell for CRS-based time tracking. Accordingly, methods, apparatuses, and computer program products for wireless communication are provided in which additional UE specific reference signals (UE-RS) and/or channel state information reference signals (CSI-RS) are made available to the UE so that the UE may have improved channel estimation and/or time tracking performance. |
| US09215691B2 |
Resource operation method and apparatus
An embodiment of the present invention discloses a resource operation method and an apparatus thereof. The method includes: determining whether a conflict exists in the two operations; and if a conflict exists in two operations, implementing conflict coordination on execution of the two operations; wherein one of the two operations is a first operation on a first resource, and the other one of the two operations is a second operation on the first resource or a third operation on a related resource of the first resource. Through the present invention, a possible operation conflict can be discovered in a timely manner during an operation on a resource, thereby avoiding the operation conflict. |
| US09215688B2 |
Data transmission method, base station and terminal
The present invention discloses a data transmission method, base station and terminal. The method comprises: transmitting, in every subframe used for transmitting multimedia broadcast multicast service (MBMS), n transport blocks (TBs) to terminals, and transmitting to the terminals the correspondence between the MBMS corresponding to each TB in the subframe and the TB serial number of each TB in the subframe; wherein n is an integer greater than one, a period of time occupies in every subframe by the TBs corresponding to same MBMS is same, and each TB in the subframe corresponds to a unique TB serial number. The present invention can transmit two or more TBs to terminals in every subframe, and the TBs transmitted in the subframe can correspond to different MBMSs, thereby realizing the transmission of TBs corresponding to a plurality of MBMSs in a subframe and improving the spectrum effectiveness of the data transmission. |
| US09215678B2 |
Timing advance timer configuration in a wireless device and a base station
A base station transmits control message(s) comprising media access control dedicated parameters. The media access control dedicated parameters comprise a time alignment timer value for a primary cell group and a sequence of at least one element. Each element comprises a time alignment timer value and a cell group index. The time alignment timer value is associated with the cell group identified by the one cell group index. Each time alignment timer value is selected from a finite set of predetermined values. |
| US09215677B2 |
Terminal apparatus, base-station apparatus, communication system, method for controlling transmission of terminal apparatus, method for controlling transmission of base-station apparatus, integrated circuit installed in terminal apparatus, and integrated circuit installed in base-station apparatus
Provided is a terminal apparatus (1) that is connected to a base-station apparatus (2) by aggregating a plurality of cells. The terminal apparatus groups cells of different frequencies on the basis of a configuration of a transmission timing group which is notified from the base-station apparatus (2), configures a timing reference cell that is used as a reference of an uplink transmission timing of the cells in the group, a group identifier that identifies the group, and a transmission timing timer that indicates available time of the uplink transmission timing of the cells in the group for each group, and releases the configuration of the transmission timing group corresponding to the group in a case where the timing reference cell does not exist in the group due to a modification in a cell on the basis of a modification instruction message which is transmitted from the base-station apparatus (2) and which gives an instruction of changing the cells in the group. |
| US09215676B2 |
Base station clock apparatus, base station system and method for clock synchronization
A base station clock apparatus, a base station system, and a method for clock synchronization are provided in embodiments of the present invention. The base station clock apparatus includes: a first-standard clock module based on a first standard, configured to generate a first frequency synchronization clock signal, a first phase synchronization signal, and a first system clock signal according to a first external clock signal, where the first system clock signal includes the first frequency synchronization clock signal and the first phase synchronization signal; a second-standard clock module based on a second standard that is different from the first standard, configured to receive the first frequency synchronization clock signal and the first phase synchronization signal from the first-standard clock module, and generate a second system clock signal, where the second system clock signal includes the first frequency synchronization clock signal and the first phase synchronization signal. |
| US09215668B2 |
Apparatus and method for controlling uplink power in a wireless communication system
An apparatus and method for controlling uplink power considering inter-cell interference based on a cooperation transmission in a wireless communication system are provided. The method includes receiving inter-cell cooperation information, which includes uplink channel information and resource allocation information of the terminal located in a service area of each access node, from each of the access nodes, generating an uplink transmission power control command of any access node based on the inter-cell cooperation information received from each of the access nodes, or configuring reference inter-cell cooperation by using the inter-cell cooperation information received from at least one cooperation access node which provides the inter-cell cooperation transmission for a certain terminal together with any access node, based on the inter-cell cooperation information received from each of the plural access nodes, and transmitting the generated transmission power control command or the configured reference inter-cell cooperation information to any access node. |
| US09215667B2 |
Device and method for transmit power control
A controlling node for a cellular communications system, arranged to determine and transmit commands for Transmit Power Control, TPC, to one or more Mobile Terminals, MTs, in at least one cell in the system. The controlling node is arranged to classify an MT as being in one of a number of states, and to use differing methods for determining an MT's TPC command depending on which state the MT is in, so that one method is used for determining TPC commands to an MT in the active state and another method is used for determining TPC commands to an MT in the passive state. |
| US09215665B2 |
Uplink transmission power control in multi-carrier communication systems
Disclosed are a method and apparatus for wireless communication by and in a base station (BS) and a user equipment (UE). The method by the UE includes determining a first power for transmitting both first data and control information on a first physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH), determining a second power for transmitting second data on a second PUSCH, reducing the second power if a sum of the determined first power and the determined second power exceeds a predetermined value, and transmitting the first data and the control information on the first PUSCH using the determined first power, and transmitting the second data on the second PUSCH using the reduced second power. |
| US09215649B2 |
Techniques for assisted network acquisition
Techniques for assisted network acquisition are described. An apparatus may comprise a wireless transceiver, a processor circuit communicatively coupled to the wireless transceiver, and a memory unit communicatively coupled to the processor circuit, the memory unit to store a network locator application operative on the processor circuit to locate a network for a remote device. The network locator application may comprise a network detector component operative to receive network information for multiple wireless networks via the wireless transceiver, a network selector component operative to select a target network for the remote device from the multiple wireless networks based on the network information, and a network notifier component operative to send network configuration information for the target network to the remote device. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
| US09215648B2 |
Apparatus and method of inter-radio access technology searching
Aspects of radio access technology searching include apparatus and methods for obtaining relative synchronization information between a first radio access technology and a second radio access technology, and determining a time location of a pilot signal of the second radio access technology based on the relative synchronization information. Further aspects include searching for the pilot signal of the second radio access technology using the determined time location. Other aspects further include determining a measurement gap duration and measurement gap location based on the relative synchronization information so as to encompass a pilot of the second radio access technology. |
| US09215646B2 |
Method and device for transmitting/receiving data in wireless access system supporting multi-radio access technology
The present invention relates to a method by which a terminal transmits/receives data to/from a first base station supporting a first wireless access technology and a second base station supporting a second wireless access technology in a wireless access system supporting multi-radio access technology (multi-RAT), the method comprising: a step for executing an initial network entry process with the first base station; a step for executing a multi-RAT capability negotiation process with the first base station to exchange information needed to access the second base station; a step for executing a scanning process on at least one second base station included in the coverage of the first base station, based on the information received from the first base station through the multi-RAT capability negotiation process; a step for executing an access process with one of the second base stations from said at least one second base station; and a step for simultaneously transmitting/receiving data with the first base station and the second base station accessed through the access process, wherein the step for executing the access process includes: a step for receiving a second system access command message that commands access to the one of the second base stations from the first base station; and a step for accessing the one of the second base stations based on the second system access command message received. |
| US09215640B2 |
Apparatus and method for use in a communication network
There is provided a method, comprising: acquiring, by a user terminal capable of performing proximity services with at least one other user terminal, an indication that a handover from a source cell to a target cell is to be performed; and acquiring a capability indication on whether or not a target node of the target cell is capable to support the proximity services. |
| US09215639B2 |
Transitioning a video call between networks
A method for transitioning a video call is provided. The method can include a wireless communication device participating in a video call with a remote communication device via a first video call session established over a connection between the wireless communication device and a first cellular network. The video call can include a packet switched video stream carried over a first bearer and an audio stream carried over a second bearer. The method can further include the wireless communication device determining a degradation in a connection quality for the first cellular network; transitioning to a legacy cellular network having a circuit switched domain in response to the degradation in connection quality for the first cellular network; establishing a second video call session on the legacy cellular network; and using the second video call session to continue the video call on the legacy cellular network. |
| US09215636B2 |
Supporting enhanced uplink during soft handover
An enhanced uplink user equipment is in soft handover. A radio network controller selects a primary Node-B out of a plurality of Node-Bs supporting the soft handover. The radio network controller receiving successfully received enhanced uplink data packets from the plurality of Node-Bs. The radio network controller reordered the successfully received enhanced uplink data packets for in-sequence deliver. The primary Node-B sends specified scheduling information to the user equipment that the other Node-Bs does not transmit. At least the primary Node-B transmits acknowledgements and negative acknowledgements to the user equipment. |
| US09215633B2 |
Cell access control method and user equipment
A cell access control method and a user terminal are provided, the method includes: obtaining, by a user equipment (UE), cell access information through a pilot channel and/or a synchronization channel; determining a current cell is a macro base station cell or an HNB cell according to the cell access information; determining, when the current cell is an HNB cell, whether the UE is allowed to access the HNB cell according to HNB information of the cell access information, if the UE is allowed to access the HNB cell, performing the access processing, if the UE is not allowed to access the HNB, abandoning the access. A UE is provided accordingly. |
| US09215628B2 |
Method for processing radio link failure report and method for adjusting mobile parameter
A method and a system for processing a Radio Link Failure (RLF) report, where when a User Equipment (UE) encounters an RLF in a first cell controlled by a first evolved base station and selects a second cell controlled by a second evolved base station to re-establish an Radio Resource Connection (RRC), are provided. The method includes sending, by the second evolved base station, the RLF report to every corresponding evolved base station according to the PCI of the first cell having been received from the UE, where the PCI of the first cell, the PCI of a second cell, the CRNTI of the UE in the first cell, and UE authentication information are carried in the RLF report, and authenticating, by every evolved base station the UE according to the UE authentication information. Another method for processing an RLF report, and two methods for adjusting a mobile parameter, are also provided. |
| US09215626B2 |
System, apparatus, and method for utilizing network access parameters in wireless communication systems
In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, a method, apparatus, and computer program product are provided for wireless communication. The method, apparatus, and computer program product may be configured to provide a message from a first network to a device, wherein the message comprises one or more parameters for access to a second network, direct the device to switch from the first network to the second network based on the one or more parameters provided by the first network, and direct the device to perform random access on the second network based at least in part on the one or more parameters provided by the first network. The one or more parameters may comprise a priority parameter for performing random access on the second network. |
| US09215621B2 |
Air-time fair transmission regulation without explicit traffic specifications for wireless networks
A system and method are provided for non-transmission specification fair air-time, NT-AirFair, allocation control by tracking the transmission time (308) consumed by each link to detect any increase and enforcing air -time allocation (309) based on the pattern of usage derived therefrom. |
| US09215615B2 |
Generating uplink signals from user equipment nodes to identify interferers to a network node
A method is disclosed that can be performed in at least one network node which provides wireless communications service for user equipment nodes (UEs). The method includes detecting uplink interference at an interfered network node. Responsive to the uplink interference, an uplink transmission having a defined configuration is initiated from a UE, which is served by a serving network node. The uplink signal is detected using the defined configuration at the interfered network node. The UE is identified responsive to the detected uplink signal as being a contributor to the uplink interference. An uplink transmission by the UE and/or by another UE served by the serving network node is controlled to reduce uplink interference. |
| US09215614B2 |
Controlling femtocell operation bandwidth based on interference to macrocell
The disclosure is related to controlling an operation bandwidth for a femtocell based on femtocell interference to a macrocell in order to minimize femtocell interference. A femtocell base station may include a measurement unit, a transmitting unit, and a control unit. The measurement unit may be configured to measure an interference amount of a macrocell adjacent to the femtocell base station. The transmitting unit may be configured to transmit the measured interference amount to a system. The control unit may be configured to i) accept an allocated operation bandwidth by the system and ii) control transmission and reception of signals with the allocated operation bandwidth. The operation bandwidth may be adjustable by the system based on the measured interference amount. |
| US09215610B2 |
Pseudo-random cell reselection
An apparatus comprising a processor configured to initiate re-selection and/or re-registration procedures and, responsive to a first parameter, delay initiation of re-selection and/or re-registration procedures for a random and/or pseudo-random delay value. |
| US09215609B2 |
Method and system for measuring wireless link quality
The present disclosure discloses a method and network device for measuring wireless link quality. The disclosed network device retrieves a plurality of packet transmission data corresponding to a plurality of transmission rates at which packets are transmitted over a wireless link between two wireless nodes in a wireless network. The network device also determines a wireless link quality metric value corresponding to the wireless link at least based on at least an average throughput associated with the plurality of transmission rates. The wireless link quality metric value can be further based on a maximum throughput corresponding to a hardware component in at least one of the two wireless nodes. The wireless link quality metric value can be used in monitoring or managing the wireless network. |
| US09215602B2 |
Simulating a mobile network with shared access channels
A method for simulating a mobile telephone network with shared-access channels. The simulation method includes the steps of simulating at least a first and a second configuration of the mobile telephone network that are statistically independent one from the other. Each one of the steps of simulating includes at least the steps of: determining a number of mobile terminals generating a packet data traffic; assigning to a list of mobile terminals included in the number of mobile terminals generating a packet data traffic, at least one shared-access channel of the mobile telephone network to be simulated; and performing a scheduling management algorithm of the list of mobile terminals on the shared-access channel. |
| US09215600B2 |
Radio wave propagation characteristic estimation apparatus, method, and computer program
To estimate radio wave propagation characteristics with high estimation accuracy, even when used for a variety of purposes. An estimation technique determining unit determines, for each of groups classified in accordance with a measurement condition, an optimum radio wave propagation characteristic estimation technique from among a plurality of radio wave propagation characteristic estimation techniques, based on an actual measured value of radio waves. A radio wave propagation characteristic estimating unit discriminates a group corresponding to the given measurement condition, sets the optimum radio wave propagation characteristic estimation technique corresponding to the discriminated group, and estimates the radio wave propagation characteristics in accordance with the set radio wave propagation characteristic estimation technique. |
| US09215597B2 |
Method of coordinating concurrent sector optimizations in a wireless communication system
Embodiments of the claimed subject matter provide a method and apparatus for coordinating concurrent sector optimizations in a wireless communication system. One exemplary embodiment of the method includes determining neighbor relationships between sectors and constructing a precedence graph using the neighbor relationships to link neighboring sectors by a plurality of directed arcs to indicate relative precedence of the neighboring sectors. The exemplary embodiment the method also includes iteratively allocating one or more antenna resources of each of the sectors by selecting a subset of the sectors as master sectors, concurrently optimizing allocation of the antenna resource for each master sector and its associated slave sectors, and reversing precedence indicated by the directed arcs linked to each master sector following optimization of the allocation of the antenna resource(s). |
| US09215596B2 |
Method and apparatus for estimating a region of coverage for a sparse network almanac
A level 3 (L3) sparse network almanac (SNA) is generated using data from a base station almanac with information for a plurality of base stations. The information for base stations includes cell identifiers that include an L3 region code that is one layer above a cell tower identification level. Cell boundaries are determined from the base station information. The cell boundaries are used to estimate a region of coverage for the L3 SNA, which may be stored in a database. For example, region points may be generated from the cell boundaries, and used to estimate the region of coverage for the L3 SNA. The region of coverage may be determined, e.g., as a minimum enclosing circle or other similar techniques. The larger of an estimated region size parameter, e.g., a radius of a circle, and a default size may be used for the region of coverage. |
| US09215586B2 |
Method of obtaining data of home appliance
A method of obtaining data of a home appliance, which includes the following steps: Sense the home appliance to obtain running data, and transmit the running data to an interpreter; save the running data in a memory of the interpreter as a plurality of history logs; connect a specific electronic device to the interpreter via a network; send a retrieval command to the interpreter; transmit at least one history log to the electronic device according to the retrieval command. With such design, repairmen can only obtain the history logs which are helpful for repairing and maintenance under authentication. |
| US09215582B2 |
Node selection in a communication network
The present invention relates to a method in a user equipment (115) for enabling mobility management node (103) selection in a communication network (100, 200). The user equipment (115) comprises a globally unique identifier assigned by the mobility management node (103). The user equipment (115) obtains (701) information, using the globally unique identifier, about the mobility management node (103) with which the user equipment (115) has been registered. The user equipment (115) transmits (702), when an idle state signaling reduction function, referred to as ISR, is inactive, the information about the registered mobility management node (103) to a base station (105). The information enables the base station (105) to select the registered mobility management node (103). |
| US09215578B2 |
Monitoring systems and methods
Methods for operating monitoring systems may comprise receiving, with a monitoring station, an alert from a base station, the alert not related to the location of the base station. The methods may also comprise receiving, with the monitoring station, a message comprising current location data for the base station. The current location data may be compared to pre-established location data. Based on the comparing, it may be determined whether the base station is located substantially at a pre-established location. One process associated with responding to the alert may be performed when the base station is located substantially at the pre-established location. An alternate process associated with responding to the alert may be performed when the base station is not located substantially at the pre-established location. |
| US09215577B2 |
Wearable healthcare device
A wearable healthcare device includes a wearable support for a care receiver. The support is provided with an operation means, sensing means, a positioning means, a Bluetooth communication means, a help calling means, a wireless communication means, a wireless transmission means, and a information processing means. The information processing means generates a healthcare information to the medical person who uses the remote server according to the information from the above means. And the information processing means receives the healthcare information, which is from the remote server that analyzes the previously sent information, for reminding the care receiver properly. |
| US09215573B2 |
Method for transmitting short messages in a broadband wireless access system
The present invention relates to a method enabling a base station and a terminal to reliably transmit short messages in a broadband wireless access system. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the method wherein a terminal receives a short message service (SMS) in a broadband wireless access system comprises the following steps: transmitting a first message for carrying out ranging to a base station; receiving a second message, which comprises SMS information and uplink resource allocation information for the transmission of a third message, from the base station as a response to the first message; and transmitting a third message, which indicates the state of the reception of the second message, to the base station by means of uplink resources which are indicated by the uplink resources allocation information. |
| US09215571B2 |
Method for transmitting and receiving packet for multi user in wireless local area network and apparatus for the same
A method of receiving a multi-user packet by a receiver in a wireless local area network system. The method includes: receiving a first group identifier (ID) management request message from a transmitter, wherein the group ID management request message includes information about at least one group ID which is intended to be allocated to the receiver for multi user-multiple input multiple output (MU-MIMO) transmission, and the information about the at least one group ID indicates each group ID and a spatial stream set position for the each group ID; transmitting a first group ID management response message to the transmitter, wherein the group ID management response message indicates admission or adjustment for allocation of the at least one group ID; and receiving at least one multi-user packet from the transmitter, wherein the multi-user packet is transmitted using MU-MIMO transmission. |
| US09215570B2 |
Beacon content propagation
Systems and methods for transmitting beacon messages are described. A beacon message is transmitted from a first beacon device and broadcast to an area within a transmission range of the first beacon device. A mobile device receives and stores the message. When the mobile device is out of the range of the first beacon device and within the range of a second beacon device, the message is transmitted to the second beacon device and broadcast by the second beacon device. |
| US09215568B2 |
Distributed storage and sharing of data packets in hybrid networks
Systems and methods provide distributed storage and sharing of data packets in hybrid networks to enable user devices (e.g., mobile terminals) to cooperate to recover lost data packets. According to embodiments, a centralized system operable to provide data transmission may optimize broadcast resources by adjusting redundancy in data packet transmission to enable a desired or a predetermined percentage of user devices to either successfully receive transmitted data packets using transmitted redundancies or to recover lost data packets relying on the distributed storage and sharing scheme. |
| US09215564B1 |
Providing information to a mobile device based on an event at a geographical location
A system, method, and non-transitory computer readable medium comprising instructions for receiving information about an event from at least one mobile device, the information comprising location information and event type information and identifying the event based on the information, the event being identified by associating the event type information with a specific event and associating the location information with a particular location associated with the specific event. |
| US09215563B2 |
Method to determine the location of a receiver
A method, device, system and use for determining a distance, location and/or orientation including the at least relative determination of a position of at least one object using at least two active anchors. A first signal is emitted by a first of the two anchors and is received at the object and by a second of said two anchors. A phase measurement is performed at said second anchor and wherein a distance determination with respect to said first anchor is performed and/or the distance from said first anchor to said second anchor is known. A second, particularly electromagnetic, signal is emitted from said second anchor, and information on phase measurement and distance between said first and second anchors is made available to a computation unit and at least one phase measurement respectively of said first and second signal is performed at said object and made available to said computation unit. |
| US09215560B1 |
System and method for device-centric location detection and geofencing
A system and a plurality of methods for location detection are disclosed. In some cases, the user's present location is represented by a circle, having a center and a radius, where the radius is indicative of the accuracy of the present location. The desired destination location, or geofence, is also defined as a circle, having a center and a radius. The various methods desclsoed are used to determine when a user has entered or exited the geofence. In some embodiments, these methods attempt to minimize power consumption or another parameter. In another embodiment, the methods attempt to achieve the highest degree of accuracy possible or required for the task. |
| US09215558B2 |
Method for digital radio fringe area learning
A system on a vehicle is provided operable to notify a user if and when they are approaching a low digital radio signal area. The vehicle includes both the capability to receive digital and analog radio signals. The system further includes a processor and a data storage unit. If the digital signal drops below a certain predetermined threshold, the system will record the location of the low signal and will notify the user of the low signal next time the user is approaching the same area recorded by the GPS. |
| US09215557B2 |
Wireless communication device, wireless communication method, information processing device, information processing method, and program
A wireless communication device includes a transmission portion, an information acquisition portion, a storage portion, a selection portion, and a transmission control portion. The transmission portion transmits information. The information acquisition portion acquires location information for the wireless communication device that includes a received signal strength of a signal that is transmitted from a base station in the vicinity. The storage portion stores, in association with specific location information, regulating information that regulates the transmission from the transmission portion of the information that corresponds to the location of the wireless communication device. The selection portion selects from the storage portion the regulating information associated with the location information acquired by the information acquisition portion. The transmission control portion controls, based on the regulating information that was selected by the selection portion, the transmission from the transmission portion of the information that corresponds to the location of the wireless communication device. |
| US09215554B2 |
Interactive advisory system
A method for locating at least one individual located remotely from a broadcast network. An analysis unit compares user profiles, dynamic locations stored in the communicator location database, and/or fixed locations entered into the analysis unit. A data set of at least one matching individualized locatee user profile is generated and the individualized locatee user profile is transmitted to the locator via the locator's communicator device. |
| US09215553B2 |
Automatic determination of and reaction to mobile user routine behavior based on geographical and repetitive pattern analysis
A pattern associated with a mobile device is determined based at least in part on time information and location information associated with the mobile device. A mobile device behavior to be associated with the pattern is determined. The mobile device is configured to exhibit the mobile device behavior automatically during at least a portion of a subsequent repetition of the pattern. |
| US09215550B2 |
Method and system for sending MTC device trigger information, and target user equipment
A method and system for sending Machine Type Communication (MTC) device trigger information and target user equipment is disclosed. An MTC server sets contents of MTC device trigger information, and sends the received MTC device trigger information to a network node equipment. The network node equipment searches a core network equipment corresponding to a target user equipment, and sends the received MTC device trigger information to the core network equipment. The core network equipment forwards the MTC device trigger information to the target user equipment via a radio access network. The target user equipment receives the MTC device trigger information, and sends an MTC device trigger information acknowledgement message to the core network equipment. Through the solution of the disclosure, the sending of MTC device trigger information in a 3GPP network can be realized. |
| US09215549B2 |
Method for delivering machine to machine (M2M) application control data over control plane in LTE/EPS utilizing standard bearer management procedures
The present invention relates generally to network communications, and more particularly to machine-to-machine (M2M) data communications. The present invention provides for a method, apparatus and computer program product for allocating and assigning a first APN used in the M2M network which is utilized to provide a M2M control message, to provide satisfactory service levels to a user of the network without overburdening the assigned APN. A control APN approach using M2M control messaging is provided. |
| US09215545B2 |
Sound stage controller for a near-field speaker-based audio system
Signals in an automobile audio system having at least two near-field speakers located close to an intended position of a listener's head are adjusted such that in a first mode, audio signals are distributed to the near-field speakers according to a first filter that causes the listener to perceive a wide soundstage, and in a second mode, the audio signals are distributed to the near-field speakers according to a second filter that causes the listener to perceive a narrow soundstage. A user input of a variable value is received and, in response, distribution of the audio signals is transitioned from the first mode to the second mode, the extent of the transition being variable based on the value of the user input. |
| US09215538B2 |
Method and apparatus for audio signal classification
An apparatus comprising at least one processor and at least one memory including computer program code the at least one memory and the computer program code configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to perform determining a signal identification value for an audio signal, determining at least one noise level value for the audio signal, comparing the signal identification value against a signal identification threshold and each of the at least one noise level value against an associated noise level threshold, and identifying the audio signal dependent on the comparison. |
| US09215533B2 |
Uncomfortable sound pressure determination system, method and program thereof, hearing aid adjustment system, and uncomfortable sound pressure determination apparatus
An exemplary uncomfortable sound pressure determination system including: a sound data generator configured to generate sound data concerning sounds consecutively ascending or descending in sound pressure from first to nth sounds, the sounds being pure tones of a same frequency; an output section configured to present the sounds to a user; a characteristic amount extractor configured to extract, based on an event-related potential of the electroencephalogram signal measured after lapse of a predetermined time from a point in time of presenting each of the sounds, a characteristic amount concerning temporal change in frequency of the event-related potential; and an uncomfortable sound pressure determination section configured to determine, by referring to a previously-provided relationship by which temporal changes in frequency of event-related potentials and uncomfortable sound pressures are associated, a sound pressure corresponding to the extracted characteristic amount to be an uncomfortable sound pressure at the frequency. |
| US09215532B2 |
Systems and methods for using a speaker as a microphone in a mobile device
In accordance with methods and systems of the present disclosure, a mobile device may include an enclosure adapted such that the enclosure is readily transported by a user of the mobile device, a speaker associated with the enclosure for generating sound, and a controller within the enclosure, communicatively coupled to the speaker. The controller may be configured to receive a signal from the speaker, the signal induced at least in part by sound incident on the speaker other than sound generated by the speaker and process the signal. |
| US09215530B2 |
Augmented reality system
Technologies are generally described for a system for processing an augmented reality image. In some examples, an augmented reality system may include an augmented reality engine configured to provide an augmented reality image by integrating a real-world image and a virtual object, and a message processing unit configured to receive a message related to the virtual object and to translate spatial attributes of the virtual object into audio attributes of a sound file. |
| US09215525B1 |
Transducer with modifiable passive component
A transducer is provided that converts energy between two forms using active components. The transducer also includes passive components in contact with the active components that perform passive component functions separate from the energy conversion function. The passive components have elastic properties that are modifiable by exposure of the passive component to a magnetic field to selectively control the energy conversion function. |
| US09215524B2 |
Acoustic horn manifold
The acoustic horn manifold (22) is composed of a vertical array of horn pairs (26A-26G) arranged in stacked relationship to each other. The horns (27L and 27R) of each pair have entrance openings (40L and 40R) on first common plane 44 and at the same elevation and disposed side-by-side to each other. The mouths (50L and 50R) of the horn pairs are in directional alignment with each other and stacked vertically on top of each other. The mouths may be laterally offset somewhat from each other and/or may extend forwardly from respective horn entrances at different distances from each other. |
| US09215521B2 |
Earphone system for mobile devices
An earphone system for a mobile device is provided. The earphone system includes an earphone interface with a plurality of contacts for accepting an earphone jack corresponding to 3- or 4-pole earphones, a controller with a plurality of ports for communicating with the earphones that are connected to the earphone interface via the earphone jack, and an earphone compatible circuit. The earphone compatible circuit controls the connection states between the contacts of the earphone interface and the ports of the controller, according to the type of earphone jack inserted into the earphone interface. The earphone compatible circuit connects corresponding contacts of the earphone jack to ports of the controller. |
| US09215516B2 |
System and method for identifying newly captured configuration parameters of a plurality of medical devices
A medical device communication system is presented including a plurality of medical devices, a data collection module for receiving at least pre-defined configuration parameters from each of the plurality of medical devices, and a medical device driver communicating with the data collection module, the medical device driver automatically capturing post-defined configuration parameters from the plurality of medical devices. The medical device communication system includes at least one remote device configured to receive the pre-defined and post-defined configuration parameters from the data collection module. The post-defined configuration parameters are received after the medical device driver is initially written and after initial electrical communication is established between the medical device driver and the data collection module. The medical device driver is prevented from being re-written each time post-defined configuration parameters are transmitted from at least one of the plurality of medical devices to the data collection module. |
| US09215515B2 |
Apparatus and method for observing physical phenomenon in ocean and atmosphere
Provided is an apparatus and method for observing a physical phenomenon in the ocean and the atmosphere, the observation apparatus including an observation signal receiving unit to receive an observation signal indicating a physical phenomenon of an observation object, a physical quantity determining unit to determine a physical quantity of the observation object, using the observation signal, and a frequency determining unit to determine whether an observation frequency is to be changed, based on the physical quantity of the observation object. |
| US09215508B2 |
Optical transmission system
According to the present invention, in an optical transmission system optically transmitting an optical signal between a first camera adaptor provided to a first video camera, a second camera adaptor provided to a second video camera, and a base station provided at a position remote from the video cameras, the first camera adaptor converts a first electric signal including a video signal component from the first video camera into a first optical signal and transmits the first optical signal to the second camera adaptor. The second camera adaptor receives the first optical signal, converts a second electric signal including a video signal from the second video camera into a second optical signal, and transmits the first and second optical signals to the base station. The base station receives the first and second optical signals, converts the received optical signals into the first and second electric signals, and outputs the electric signals to an external device. |
| US09215507B2 |
Volume customization
A method may include identify an application launched in a device by a user or a program or a channel selected by the user for playing. The method may further include querying a database to determine whether the application, program, or channel is associated with preset volume settings, wherein the database includes information identifying preset volume settings for a plurality of applications, a plurality of programs, or a plurality of channels. The method may include setting, when the application, program, or channel is associated with preset volume settings, the volume according the preset volume settings during execution of the application or playing of the program or channel. The method may also include prompting the user to set volume settings associated with the application, program, or channel when the application is not associated with the preset volume settings. |
| US09215505B2 |
Method and system for secure processing a stream of encrypted digital audio/video data
Method and system to prevent control words sharing. The system comprises a receiver capable of processing a digital data stream. The receiver, having a video descrambler device, is coupled to a primary and secondary secure device. The digital data stream comprises video content data scrambled by a first algorithm using a control word, audio content data encrypted with a secret second algorithm using a system key, and encrypted control messages comprising the control word. The primary secure device decrypts the control message and obtains the control word. The video descrambler device uses this control word to descramble the video content data. The secondary secure device comprises a decryption device which decrypts the encrypted audio content data and a watermarking module configured to add a watermark to the decrypted audio content data and return watermarked decrypted audio content data to the receiver. |
| US09215504B2 |
Systems and methods for acquiring, categorizing and delivering media in interactive media guidance applications
Systems and methods are discussed for providing guidance for Internet-delivered media. In some embodiments, information on available media on the Internet is gathered. The information is associated with existing media guidance data. The associations enable a media guidance application to identify relevant online media and to display listings in a user-friendly way. A user interface for an online media guidance application is also provided. The user interface allows a user to narrow down the large amount of Internet-delivered media in a systematic way according to criteria that interests a user. |
| US09215503B2 |
Method and system for providing social media content synchronized to media presentation
A computer system provides a method for delivering a video stream to a viewer and delivering, in synchrony with the video stream, social media content created during the current and previous viewings of the video stream by first-time viewers of the video stream. |
| US09215502B1 |
User behavior indicator
A method for determining user behavior related to media includes receiving a media file containing media, partitioning the media into segments, monitoring user behavior with respect to the media and the segments, logging user behavior with respect to the segments, and identifying a baseline level of user interest with respect to the media. The method may further include comparing logged user behavior with respect to a segment of the media with the baseline level of user interest with respect to the media, responsive to determining that the deviation exceeds a threshold, tagging the media segment to indicate that deviation of the logged user behavior with respect to the segment of the media from the baseline level of user interest with respect to the media, and communicating with a user device regarding tagged segments. |
| US09215500B2 |
Full-frame buffer to improve video performance in low-latency video communication systems
Embodiments of apparatuses and methods to decrease a size of a memory in a low-latency video communication system are described. A control unit is configured to monitor a condition associated with at the communication link. The control unit is configured to receive the video content over a link based on monitoring. A memory comprising a full-frame buffer is coupled to the control unit. The full-frame buffer is configured as a history buffer to store a full frame of the video in a coding format that matches the coding format of the video content received over the link. A display unit is coupled to the history buffer. A portion of the full-frame buffer is configured as a network streaming buffer. |
| US09215496B1 |
Determining the location of a point of interest in a media stream that includes caption data
A method and computing device for determining the location of a point of interest in a media stream. The method receives an order of duplication for a media stream and a sequence of caption data strings associated with the media stream. The method computes a hash value for a selected string in the sequence. The hash value representing the selected string, and a number of strings in the sequence that immediately precede the selected string, where the order of duplication determines the number of strings. The method receives a media stream time for the selected string based on the hash value, and determines a time at a point of interest in the media stream relative to the media stream time for the selected string. |
| US09215490B2 |
Apparatus, system, and method for controlling content playback
A system and method for controlling content playback are provided. The system includes a playback device configured to display content on a display, at least one detector configured to monitor a playback area, and a controller configured to identify at least one point of interest on the content, and to operatively control the playback device according to a user input. |
| US09215488B2 |
Content display-playback system, content display-playback method, recording medium having content display-playback program recorded thereon, and operation control apparatus
In a content display-playback system, an operation control apparatus controls operations of a content providing apparatus and display-playback apparatus connected to a network so that content can be transmitted and received among the content providing apparatus, the display-playback apparatus, and the operation control apparatus and that the content can be displayed and played back on the display-playback apparatus and the operation control apparatus. The operation control apparatus includes a storage unit. When a user operates the operation control apparatus to stop playback during playback of content received from the content providing apparatus on the display-playback apparatus or the operation control apparatus, content meta-information concerning the played back content and playback position information of the content being played back when the playback is stopped are stored in the storage unit. |
| US09215487B2 |
Control device, image display apparatus and control method
A control device includes: a digital signal input section through which a digital signal from an external device is input through a digital signal cable; a detecting section which detects connection with the external device and then outputs a detection signal to the external device; an adjusting section which performs adjustment for the digital signal; an information input section through which display request information about a setting image which receives input of setting information about the adjustment is input; and a control section which controls the detecting section not to output the detection signal if the display request information is input. |
| US09215485B2 |
Enablement of premium content for internet video client
A device is enabled to display Internet TV by accessing a management server and receiving back from the server a user token and a service list of predefined content servers. A user can select a content server on the service list which causes the device to upload its user token to the management server, which in turn sends back the network path to the content server along with a content server-user-unique service token (SUIT) that the device uses to access the content on the content server, in some embodiments on per-title PPV access, per-content category PPV access, or per-service PPV access. |
| US09215479B2 |
System and method for real-time new event detection on video streams
Techniques are disclosed for detecting new events in a video stream that yield improved detection efficiency in real time. For example, a method determines whether a given event is a new event in a video stream. The video stream includes a plurality of events. A first step extracts a first set of features (e.g., text features) from the given event. The first set of features is computationally less expensive to process as compared to a second set of features (e.g., image features) associated with the given event. A second step computes one or more first dissimilarity values between the given event and one or more previous events in the video stream using only the first set of features when one or more first dissimilarity criteria exist. A third step determines whether the given event is a new event based on the one or more computed first dissimilarity values. |
| US09215478B2 |
Protocol and format for communicating an image from a camera to a computing environment
A media feed interface may be provided that may be used to extract a media frame from a media feed. The media feed interface may access a capture device, a file, and/or a network resource. Upon accessing the capture device, file, and/or network resource, the media feed interface may populate buffers with data and then may create a media feed from the buffers. Upon request, the media feed interface may isolate a media frame within the media feed. For example, the media feed interface analyze media frames in the media feed to determine whether a media frame includes information associated with, for example, the request. If the media frame includes the requested information, the media feed interface may isolate the media frame associated with the information and may provide access to the isolated media frame. |
| US09215476B2 |
Media distribution to a plurality of devices utilizing buffered dispersed storage
A method begins by a processing module receiving a plurality of playback requests for a stored program, wherein the stored program is stored in a dispersed storage network (DSN) memory as sets of encoded data slices. In response to the playback requests, the method continues with the processing module entering a loop that begins with retrieving a group of sets of encoded data slices, generating copies therefrom, and storing the copies. The loop continues with the processing module sending a unique copy of the copies to a requesting device. The method continues with the processing module existing the loop when the last group of the request has been retrieved and repeating the loop when it has not. |
| US09215475B2 |
Method and apparatus for motion estimation using combined reference bi-prediction
A method and apparatus are provided for motion estimation using combined reference bi-prediction. The apparatus includes an encoder (200) for encoding a multi-prediction picture from a combination of two or more reference pictures by respectively predicting a motion vector for a particular one of the two or more reference pictures in a motion estimation process while initializing motion vectors for remaining ones of the two or more reference pictures to a predefined value for use by the motion estimation process. |
| US09215468B1 |
Video bit-rate reduction system and method utilizing a reference images matrix
A video bit-rate reduction system utilizing a reference images matrix and a method of operating the video bit-rate reduction system are disclosed. In one embodiment, the video bit-rate reduction system includes an encoder-side bit-rate reduction system (e.g. a video signal transmitter) with a reference images matrix matchmaker and a decoder-side bit-rate reduction system (e.g. a video signal receiver) with a reference images matrix reconstructor. The video bit-rate reduction system is designed to accommodate a reference images matrix-based symbolization, matchmaking, and reconstruction of residual signals that are processed through a support layer pathway with a high bit-rate reduction and data transmission efficiency, while retaining the high-quality of the video data without any or substantial visible degradation of image and video quality. In a preferred embodiment, a sparse linear model is applied to the reference images matrix matchmaking and the reference images matrix reconstruction for compact symbolization of the residual signals. |
| US09215463B2 |
Image encoding/decoding method and device
A video encoding apparatus includes: an encoding information encoder to encode a skip information indicating whether a block to be encoded is a skip block, and encode either a skip motion information of the block, or an intra or inter prediction information of the block and a transform information of the block, according to whether the block to be encoded is the skip block, wherein the transform information includes partition information related to partitioning the block into subblocks by a tree structure; and a video encoder to encode a residual signal information of each of the subblocks partitioned from the block. |
| US09215457B2 |
Method and system for communicating multimedia using reconfigurable rateless codes and decoding in-process status feedback
A method and system use capacity-approaching rateless code to communicate multimedia data even with very short codewords, such as 64 bits or less, via erasure and noise channels. The method provides a way to design the edge degree distribution of rateless codes for any arbitrary channel. Based on an equivalent metric of decoding behavior in any channels, the degree distribution of a rateless code such as Luby-transform codes and raptor codes is optimized based on in-process status of decoding. A regularized least-squares optimization is used to avoid erroneous decoding. Multiple feedbacks can further improve the performance. |
| US09215455B2 |
System and method of calibrating a display system free of variation in system input resolution
This invention provides a calibration system and method for multi-unit display systems without a need for switching the system input resolution/configuration of the display system while calibrating. This serves to avoid carrying out a re-synchronization step. As such, this system and method allows for increases speed and reduced likelihood of failure. This system and method also corrects the display system by providing an arrangement that employs a minimum of required changes so as to avoid any changes that can consequently affect the output image of the display system. Calibration of the system of display units occurs free of any changes to the input resolution and this resolution is maintained in a manner that resists change unless specifically required. Moreover, this system and method enables a resolution for the overall system that differs from the sum of the input resolutions of the discrete, individual display units in the collection. |
| US09215453B2 |
Method for calibrating a measurement system and device for carrying out the method
The invention relates to a method for calibrating a measurement system having at least one image recording apparatus (12) having at least two measurement cameras (31, 32) that form a stereo camera system, and having an analysis unit (13), wherein the measurement system is calibrated by means of a calibration device (22) having reference features (29). The process flow of the method is divided into three steps, wherein in a first step the 3D coordinates of the reference features (29) are determined in a measurement space (30) of the calibration device (22) by at least one image recording camera (9), and in a second step at least one of the image recording apparatuses (12) is disposed in the measurement space (30) of the calibration device (22), and in a third step the 3D coordinates of the at least one image recording apparatus (12) and/or of the at least two measurement cameras (31, 32) are determined in a common 3D coordinate system by means of the analysis unit (13) using the 3D coordinates determined in the first step. The calibration device (22) comprises a measurement space (30) for receiving the image recording apparatus (12) and said measurement space is at least partially bounded by a measurement frame (22) having the reference features (29). |
| US09215450B2 |
Auto-stereoscopic three-dimensional display and driving method thereof
An auto-stereoscopic three-dimensional (3D) display including a display module and a driving module is provided. The display module includes a display panel and a barrier unit. The display panel has odd-column pixels and even-column pixels. The barrier unit coordinates with a left-eye image and a right-eye image displayed by the display panel to switch vertically and alternatively arranged slits and barriers, so as to produce a stereoscopic image in a viewer's eyes through parallax. The driving module provides left-eye image data and right-eye image data to drive the display module. The driving module drives the odd-column and even-column pixels respectively according to different driving timings, so as to respectively and sequentially enables the odd-column and even-column pixels during a plurality of corresponding frame periods to receive the left-eye image data and the right-eye image data and allow the display panel to display the left-eye and right-eye images. |
| US09215448B2 |
Stereo panoramic images
In one embodiment, range data is combined with an image in order to create a stereo image from the single collected image. An apparatus receives image data associated with a geographic location and range data associated with the geographic location. The range data may be a point cloud. At least one perspective image is formed based on the image data and the range data. The perspective image has a viewpoint different than single collected image. The apparatus generates a stereo image from the at least one perspective image. The stereo image appears to have depth. The at least one perspective image may include two images, each offset by a distance to estimate eye separation. |
| US09215447B2 |
Imaging device and imaging apparatus including a pixel with light receiving region on one side of a center of the pixel
Provided is an imaging device which can accurately obtain two captured image signals having a phase difference therebetween. An imaging device includes a plurality of pixels including two types of pixels, such as a first pixel that receives one of a pair of light beams which pass through different pupil regions of an imaging optical system and a second pixel that receives the other of the pair of light beams. The plurality of pixels are arranged in a square lattice shape. A light receiving region of the first pixel deviates from the center of the first pixel to the right side. A light receiving region of the second pixel deviates from the center of the second pixel to the left side. |
| US09215444B2 |
Broadcasting receiver and method for displaying 3D images
Disclosed are a method for displaying 3D images and a broadcast receiver. The method for displaying 3D images according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises the steps of: receiving broadcasting signals including video data and 3D object data; decoding the 3D object data, the 3D object data including texts or image information for a 3D object, output position information of the 3D object, and disparity information of the 3D object; obtaining parallax values from the disparity information and producing distortion compensation coefficients using the parallax values; adjusting a display size of the 3D object using the distortion compensation coefficients; and outputting and displaying the 3D object. |
| US09215441B2 |
Image processing apparatus, non-transitory computer readable recording medium, and image processing method
A technique that enables an image distortion caused on a pseudo image of an object to be reduced is provided. In order to achieve the object, an image processor includes a first obtaining section for obtaining a base image, a second obtaining section for obtaining first pieces of distance information, a first generating section for generating second pieces of distance information by executing a process for reducing dispersion of the first pieces of distance information, and a second generating section for generating a pseudo image constituting a stereoscopic image. The first generating section executes the reducing process so that strength for reducing the dispersion of the first pieces of distance information in a second direction crossing a first direction on an original distance image relating to the first pieces of distance information is stronger than strength for reducing the dispersion in the first direction on the original distance image. |
| US09215440B2 |
Efficient EWA video rendering
Techniques are disclosed for rendering images. The techniques include receiving an input image associated with a source space, the input image comprising a plurality of source pixels, and applying an adaptive transformation to a source pixel, where the adaptive transformation maps the source pixel to a target space associated with an output image comprising a plurality of target pixels. The techniques further include determining a target pixel affected by the source pixel based on the adaptive transformation. The techniques further include writing the transformed source pixel into a location in the output image associated with the target pixel. |
| US09215439B2 |
Apparatus and method for arranging emails in depth positions for display
The information processing apparatus generates email information (or display contents) to be displayed on a display apparatus and outputs the generated email information to the display apparatus that is a 3D image display apparatus for displaying a 3D image observable by an observer on the basis of binocular parallax. The information processing apparatus updates the display contents to be displayed on the display apparatus in accordance with an operation input. The information processing apparatus outputs email information display (a first display state) or email information display (a second display state) from a display output block to the display apparatus. On the basis of an input operation, the information processing apparatus switches, through a switching block, a display state of the email information to be displayed on the display apparatus from the email information display (the first display state) to the email information display (the second display state). |
| US09215438B2 |
Intermediate image generation apparatus and method
An intermediate image generation apparatus and method are described. An intermediate image may be generated from any one image of a left image and a right image, and the intermediate image may be interpolated by referring to the other image of the left image and the right image. |
| US09215437B2 |
Passive 3D image system and image processing method thereof
A passive 3D image system includes a passive 3D image display apparatus, a scaling module and a luminance adjusting module. The 3D passive image display apparatus includes N rows of display units. After receiving an original image including N rows of original data, the scaling module merges the N rows of original data to generate a scaled image including N/2 rows of scaled data. The original image is either a left-eye image or a right-eye image. The luminance adjusting module adjusts the N/2 rows of scaled data to increase the luminance of the scaled image. |
| US09215432B1 |
Systems and methods for calibrating and aligning displays
A method for setting an output of a projector of a display system, is provided. The method includes displaying an image on a projector screen using the projector, measuring a light characteristic emanating from the projector screen using a first meter on a first side of the projector screen, adjusting the output of the projector until a desired value of the light characteristic is measured at the first meter, measuring the light characteristic of light emitted from the projector, with a second meter on a second side of the projector screen, to obtain a light characteristic measurement that corresponds to the desired value, and storing the light characteristic measurement that corresponds to the desired value. |
| US09215431B2 |
Image processing apparatus, projector and control method of projector
An image processing apparatus projects and displays an image on a projection surface. The image processing apparatus includes an adjustment image producing section (an adjustment image producing section and an image analysis section) that produces an adjustment image for adjusting a focus of a projected image to be displayed on the projection surface and an imaging section that images the adjustment image projected on the projection surface. The adjustment image producing section changes the adjustment image to be produced, such that a grayscale pattern of a captured adjustment image obtained by imaging is close to a grayscale pattern of the adjustment image. |
| US09215428B2 |
Child-monitoring system
A child-monitoring system includes a parent unit and a child unit. The child-monitoring system is configured to communicate audio and video signals between the parent unit and the child unit through a wireless connection so that the parent unit and the child unit may be maintained in a spaced-apart relation to one another. |
| US09215423B2 |
Recommendation engine apparatus and methods
Recommendation engine apparatus and associated methods provide content compiled from various sources and selected to match user preferences. In one embodiment, the recommendation apparatus comprises a headend entity; in another, it is co-located on a user's CPE. In one embodiment, the recommendation engine creates content records from content metadata for comparison to a user profile. The user profile is pre-programmed; however has the ability to dynamically shift toward a user's preferences as the user takes actions regarding content. Client applications are utilized to compile and present content; feedback mechanisms are utilized to enable “learning” from user activities to generate more precise recommendations as well as to “unlearn” stale preferences. Recommended content is displayed in the form of a playlist, or as a continuous stream on a virtual channel, or presented in an electronic program guide. A business rules “engine” useful in implementing operational or business goals is also disclosed. |
| US09215420B2 |
Ranking search results
Methods, systems, computer readable media, and apparatuses for ranking search results are presented. According to one or more aspects, two or more search results may be ranked based on the extent to which each search result matches at least one search criterion and based on the amount of time that content corresponding to each search result will remain available. Content with less availability time remaining may be ranked higher than content with more availability time remaining. The ranking may also be based on a genre of the content being ranked, and availability may be weighted differently in ranking content of different genres. |
| US09215419B2 |
System and method for set-top box recording
Embodiments of the present invention disclose an integrated set-top box for recording a voice communication and/or a voicemail. In one embodiment, the integrated set-top box automatically detects communications associated with a monitored communication line and records and stores the voice communications in a data storage unit of the integrated set-top box. In another embodiment, the integrated set-top box may provide voicemail capabilities in addition to other features. |
| US09215414B2 |
Selection of a Multipoint Control Unit (MCU) for a video meeting on a network
To select an appropriate multipoint control unit (MCU) for hosting an upcoming video meeting, video meeting data of previous meetings is stored, including time and location data associated with meetings conducted on a bridge ID and attended by participants located in different regions. The schedule time of an upcoming video meeting using the bridge ID is compared with the time data of previous video meetings on the bridge ID to identify related video meetings among the previous video meetings, the related video meetings being time correlated with the scheduled time of the upcoming video meeting. One of a number of MCUs in the network is selected to be a host MCU to host the upcoming video meeting based on the location data of the related video meetings, in which the host MCU is selected as a function of its proximity to locations of participants of the related video meetings. |
| US09215406B2 |
Immersive telepresence anywhere
A conferencing peripheral for use with a mobile device or laptop or desktop computer can include one or more of projectors, cameras, microphones, and speakers. Such a device can work with the mobile device to provide a higher quality conferencing experience than has been provided to date by projecting a substantially full size, high resolution, image of conference participants onto a screen or wall and by providing microphones, speakers, and sufficient audio processing to provide high fidelity audio as part of the conferencing experience. The peripheral may be configured to use the voice and/or data network of the mobile device or may include its own internal network interface. |
| US09215400B2 |
Client-side multimedia content targeting system
A client-side multimedia content targeting system schedules the recording, storing, and deleting of multimedia content on a client system storage device. The system accepts as input a prioritized list of program viewing preferences which is compared with a database of program guide objects that indicate when programs of interest are actually broadcast. The viewer's client system locally retains the viewer's preferences and other personal information that the viewer has entered and is sent targeting information relating to program guide objects by a server. Using the viewer's preferences and personal information, the client system creates a viewer profile, which is used with the targeting information by the client system to record content that is within the viewer profile. The described client-based form of targeting can be applied to almost any multimedia situation, including, but not limited to: TV shows, movies, advertisements, product and service offerings, music, radio, audio, etc. |
| US09215399B2 |
AV signal storage method and apparatus and television having broadcast stream storage function
Provided are an AV signal storage method and apparatus and a television (TV) having an AV signal storage function. The method includes storing an AV signal in a first storage unit when the AV signal is received; storing the received AV signal in a second storage unit when the second storage unit is driven; and outputting AV signal stored in one of the first storage unit and the second storage unit when a request for the output of the AV signal is received. |
| US09215398B2 |
Display apparatus for displaying video input through various ports
A display apparatus displaying video input through various ports is provided. The display apparatus includes a board which is disposed behind a display module, wherein the board includes a universal serial bus (USB) port which receives a USB standard signal, a decoder which decodes a video signal from the USB standard signal and outputs a decoded signal, a video output unit which outputs a displayable video signal to the display module corresponding to the video signal, wherein the USB port is disposed at an edge of a first side of the board, and the video output unit is disposed at an edge of a second side of the board which is different from the first side of the board. |
| US09215395B2 |
Apparatus, system, and method for providing social content
An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for providing social content and/or interaction. A content tracking module is configured to track content displayed at multiple locations on an electronic display. An individual tracking module is configured to track one or more individuals in multiple video feeds of observing areas at the multiple locations. The multiple video feeds include a first video feed and a second video feed. A change detection module is configured to detect a change in expression and/or a body movement in at least one individual in the first video feed and an overlay display module is configured to initiate display of an image of the at least one individuals overlaying the content displayed at a location of the second video feed. |
| US09215394B2 |
System and method for optimized appliance control
A device receives a request from a controlling device, such as a remote control, smart phone, or the like, where the request is intended to have one or more target devices perform one or more functional operations. The device responds to the request by applying the optimum methodology to propagate one or more commands to each intended target appliance to cause each intended target appliance to perform the intended one or more functional operations. |
| US09215386B2 |
Detector pixel signal readout circuit using an AC signal component in implementing an event detection mode per pixel
A pixel readout circuit for use with an imaging pixel array, comprising: an input channel for receiving an image signal corresponding to an electrical output of a photosensitive element of the pixel; and an electronic circuit interconnected between an input channel and an output readout utility. The electronic circuit comprises a capacitive unit, and a single analyzer. The capacitive unit is controllably linked to the input channel for accumulating a charge corresponding to received intensity generated by the pixel during a single frame period, and is connected to the output readout utility. |
| US09215385B2 |
System and method for an image sensor operable in multiple video standards
An image sensor system and associated method supporting multiple video output standards, such as NTSC and PAL, including a pixel array corresponding in size to the frame size having a smaller line number of the video standards, is described. System and method for resolving discrepancies between standards includes multiple crystal oscillators or frequency synthesis to derive a dot clock, and a standard-specific pixel read-out scheme that provides additional lines when outputting according to the frame size having a larger line number of the video standards. In an embodiment, additional line video data is derived by duplicating a line of image data, and in an alternative embodiment additional line video data is derived by digital vertical interpolation. |
| US09215380B2 |
Information processor, information processing method, and computer program product
An information processor includes: a storage unit that stores therein output control information used for setting an output environment of an external output device; a detecting unit that acquires information indicating the output environment of the external output device; a first control unit that determines the output environment acquired by the detecting unit by referring to the output control information stored in the storage unit; and a second control unit that operates the external output device in accordance with the output environment determined by the first control unit. |
| US09215372B2 |
Image device and imaging method
An imaging device of the present invention operates with supply of power from a main power supply, and comprises an imaging section having an image sensor for forming a subject image and outputting image data, a variable voltage conversion section, supplied with power from the main power supply, for converting to a designated voltage based on control signals, and outputting the designated voltage, a constant voltage section that receives output of the variable voltage conversion section and supplies a constant voltage signal to the image sensor, a noise level prediction section for predicting and outputting a noise level of image data of the image sensor, and a control section for calculating a voltage value input to the constant voltage section in accordance with output from the noise level prediction section, and designating an output voltage to the variable voltage conversion section. |
| US09215370B2 |
Digital photographing apparatus and method of controlling the same to increase continuous shooting speed for capturing panoramic photographs
A digital photographing apparatus and a method of controlling the same to increase continuous shooting speed for capturing panoramic photographs. A provided method includes when a plurality of images are captured from an image pickup device during a predetermined period of time to generate a panoramic image, capturing at least one image from among the plurality of images by reading, from the image pickup device, image data corresponding to a predetermined region of a preview image displayed on the digital photographing apparatus, wherein a first number of the plurality of images is greater than a second number of images captured by reading, from the image pickup device, second image data corresponding to an entire region of the preview image during the predetermined period of time. |
| US09215369B2 |
Data acquisition method and electronic device
A data acquisition method and an electronic device are provided. The electronic device includes a first image capturing unit and a second image capturing unit. The first image capturing unit and the second image capturing unit utilize different imaging modes during image capturing. The method includes: acquiring first image data of a current scene captured by the first image capturing unit and second image data of the current scene captured by the second image capturing unit respectively, where the first image data includes first sub-image data and second sub-image data, the second image data includes third sub-image data, an image dimension of the third sub-image data is the same as the image dimension of the first sub-image data, and a resolution of the third sub-image data is higher than a resolution of the first sub-image data; and synthesizing the third sub-image data with the first sub-image data. |
| US09215366B2 |
Endoscope system, control method, and imaging device
An endoscope system includes an imaging section that captures an object via an optical system and an image sensor, an observation state determination section that determines the observation state of the object captured by the imaging section, and an aperture control section that controls the state of an aperture included in the optical system based on the observation state, the aperture control section controlling the state of the aperture so that the resolution determined by the diffraction limit due to the aperture is equal to or higher than a resolution determined by the image sensor when the observation state determination section has determined that the observation state is a first observation state, and stopping down the aperture as compared with the state of the aperture in the first observation state when the observation state determination section has determined that the observation state is a second observation state. |
| US09215363B2 |
Implementing autofocus in an image capture device while compensating for movement
A system and method for focusing an image capture device are disclosed. One embodiment is a method comprising moving an autofocus window in response to detected movement of the image capture device. |
| US09215362B2 |
Image capturing system and image capturing method
An image capturing system includes a sensor unit that is worn on an user and includes a first motion sensor that detects motion of the user and a subject tracking apparatus that is integrated with a camera platform on which an imaging apparatus is mounted, includes a second motion sensor that detects motion of the camera platform, and controls the motion of the camera platform by using the second motion sensor based on the motion of the user detected by the first motion sensor to allow the imaging apparatus to track a subject. |
| US09215360B2 |
Camera module having shield can
There is provided a camera module including a housing having a lens part installed therein; a flexible circuit board having an extension part on which a lamp is installed, the extension part being coupled to the housing such that the lamp is disposed to be adjacent to the lens part; and a shield can having first and second through-holes formed therein such that the lens part and the lamp are exposed therethrough. |
| US09215351B2 |
Video-frame data receiver with low frame capture rate
The present disclosure relates generally to a video frame data receiver that is capable of image acquisition at low frame rates. Such video frame data receivers may be used to capture images from diagnostic tests or assays in which lower frame capture rates are sufficient including, for example, lateral flow test strips. |
| US09215347B2 |
Information processing system and program
An information processing system is provided that simplifies a logout procedure in an information processing apparatus that has a Web browser that operates together with a Web server that serves as an external apparatus, while maintaining the operational feel of the Web browser. To accomplish this, in the present information processing system, the Web server is notified of a user instruction input via an operation screen of the Web browser provided from the Web server as an event. Here, the Web server analyzes the notified event, and if this event is a logout request, the Web server executes processing for logging out of the Web server, and also notifies the Web browser of the logout request. The Web browser executes processing for logging out of the Web browser upon receipt of the logout request from the Web server. |
| US09215345B2 |
Method and system for inverse halftoning utilizing inverse projection of predicted errors
A method and system generates a reconstructed gray scale image of pixels from a binary image of pixels by reverse propagating an error, in a diffused manner, to the pixels of the binary image to create pixels representing a reconstructed gray scale image. The reverse propagation of the error determines if a current pixel has a first predetermined value; sets an error value to a first error value if the current pixel has the first predetermined value; sets the error value to a second error value if the current pixel does not have the first predetermined value; and propagates a diffused error value to a pixel neighboring the current pixel to create an error diffused pixel, the diffused error value being a product of the set error value and a weighting coefficient associated with the pixel neighboring the current pixel. A Gaussian filter may be utilized to filter the pixels representing a gray scale image to create a filtered reconstructed gray scale image of pixels. |
| US09215336B2 |
Policy decision method, charging device, and system
A policy decision method is provided, including: receiving, by a policy and charging rules function PCRF device, a policy request of a first user sent by a gateway device; determining, according to the policy request, that the first user needs to use a counter of a second user; acquiring, a current status of the counter of the second user by using a session that is of the second user and established between the PCRF device and a charging system; and generating, a control policy of the first user according to the current status of the counter of the second user, and sending the control policy to the gateway device. The present invention can implement sharing of accumulated data among users, reduces processing pressure of the charging system, and decreases a performance loss of the charging system. |
| US09215334B2 |
Methods, systems, and products for sharing usage plans
Shared usage plans are popular with families, friends, and small businesses. These shared usage plans share some cumulative utilization of resources, such as communications services. Even though multiple devices may share a monthly allotment of resources, an individual threshold is established for each device. The multiple individual thresholds may then be dynamically regulated to maintain the monthly allotment of resources. |
| US09215327B2 |
Methods and apparatuses for multi-channel acoustic echo cancelation
Embodiments include methods and apparatuses for echo cancelation involving multiple audio channels and the production, sensing, or a combination thereof of multiple audio channels in conferencing systems. A conferencing apparatus with a plurality of speakers configured to generate outgoing acoustic waves responsive to a multi-channel audio signal. One or more microphones are configured to sense incoming acoustic waves from the plurality of speakers and from locally produced acoustic waves from a participant of a conference to generate one or more incoming audio signals. A processor is operably coupled to the plurality of speakers and the one or more microphones. The processor is configured to perform acoustic echo cancelation on the one or more incoming audio signals relative to at least two different channels of the multi-channel audio signal. |
| US09215326B2 |
Systems and methods for call processing
The present invention provides flexible, user-definable call screening processes. The user can optionally define to which telecommunication terminals a screened call is to be broadcast to and under what conditions. An incoming call is forwarded to a call management system that asks the caller to leave a voice message. The call management system selectively couples the call to a POTS line or a VoIP-capable device so that the user can listen to the incoming message and thereby screen the incoming call. Based on the screening, the user can instruct the call management system to connect the caller to the user. |
| US09215318B2 |
Methods and systems for call processing in a wireline and wireless network
Methods and systems are described for routing call in a wireless network environment. In one embodiment, a phone address is assigned to a subscriber and/or a subscriber's mobile telecommunications device. A call directed to the phone address is routed to a call processing system. An outbound call from the call processing system is placed to a wireless communication service provider so as to cause, at least in part, the wireless communication service provider to route the outbound call to the subscriber's mobile telecommunications device, wherein the call processing system configures call signaling parameters associated with the outbound call so that the outbound call appears to be to a phone number ported to the wireless communication service provider, and wherein the phone number has not been ported to the wireless communication service provider. The outbound call is bridged with the inbound call. |
| US09215317B2 |
Unified caller identification across multiple communication modes
A mobile device is adapted to operate in a first communication mode and a second communication mode. An identifier is acquired for a mobile device, wherein the identifier is sent to identify the mobile device when the mobile device places a call in the first communication mode. A call is placed to a destination device while the mobile device operates in the second communication mode. The same identifier is sent to the destination device while the mobile device operates in the second communication mode. The mobile device is served by a first service provider while it operates in the first communication mode. The mobile device is served by a second service provider while it operates in the second communication mode, the second service provider being different from the first service provider. |
| US09215315B2 |
Systems and methods for contextual caller identification
In an example implementation of the disclosed technology, a method includes, responsive to receiving, at a computing device, an indication of an incoming request for live communication from a caller having corresponding identifying information, locating, by the computing device, at least one occurrence of the identifying information in history data. The history data is associated with past activity of a user of the computing device in relation to the caller. The method also includes outputting, by the computing device, for display, image content based on the history data. The image content includes an image of web-based content associated with the identifying information. |
| US09215309B2 |
Systems and methods for controlling personal communications
A method for using a mobile software application for deleting or recalling unwanted messages on a mobile device before it is delivered to the intended recipient is provided. The software application operates by running on top of the resident messaging application on the mobile device. For example, the application caches the message for specified amount of time and thereby sets a length of delay. The user has the application on the mobile device and the message is composed on the OST application and the application software keeps the message in a buffer for a predetermined amount of time after the user selects to send the message such that if the user regrets sending the message, it can be deleted or recalled before the message leaves the mobile device. Other advantages that are understood from the present disclosure will further be apparent. |
| US09215306B2 |
Mobile terminal and display control method thereof
A mobile terminal including a transparent display, a sensing unit configured to detect a surrounding environment of the transparent display, and a controller configured to change a transparency of at least one of a background and an object displayed on the transparent display according to the sensed surrounding environment. |
| US09215302B2 |
Method and device for determining user handedness and controlling a user interface
A handheld portable device (10) receives information signals modulated over one or more radio frequency (RF) spectrums includes housing (150), a user interface (62) and a plurality of antennae (A1-A3) that are configured to respond to modulated RF information signals. Receivers (RX1-RX3) receive the modulated RF information signals from the plurality of antennae. A controller (602) determines a user grip from one or more properties of the response to modulated RF signals by respective ones of the plurality of antennae and controls the user interface based on a determined user grip. |
| US09215299B2 |
Cover member engaging device and portable terminal with battery cover engaging structure using the same
A cover member engagement device and a portable terminal having a battery cover engagement structure using the same are provided, in which a battery mounting portion is formed on a rear surface of a housing of the portable terminal, engagement recesses are formed in both edges of the battery mounting portion, and engagement ribs are formed on a surface of a battery cover, for being engaged in the engagement recesses, wherein at least one first hook protruding from an inner side surface of at least one of the engagement ribs and at least one second hook protruding from an outer side surface of at least one of the engagement ribs are engaged with the housing. |
| US09215297B2 |
Efficient signal compression format schemes
Aspects of efficient signal compression format schemes are described. In various embodiments, samples are grouped into one or more blocks. One or more scaling factors are determined for the samples in the one or more blocks. In some cases, a block scaling factor is determined for each block. Further, in some embodiments, if a unique scaling factor exists among samples in a block, the position of the sample is identified. In turn, sign extension bits are scaled from the one or more blocks, and samples in the one or more blocks are quantized. In one embodiment, based on a number of sign extension bits scaled from the block and whether the unique scaling factor exists, a scaling code word is encoded for the block. In other embodiments, implicity, adaptive scaling, and/or adaptive quantization, for example, are used to increase the performance of the compression schemes. |
| US09215295B2 |
Transmission and reception apparatuses, methods, and systems for filtering content
Disclosed herein is a transmission apparatus for distributing a content to a client, including: a question generation section configured to generate question information representative of a question regarding liking of a user of the client; and a transmission section configured to transmit the question information and provider side answer information in the form of a bit string representative of an answer set by a provider which provides the content to the question regarding the liking of the user to the client. |
| US09215294B2 |
Management of communications between a client equipment and a server equipment providing to the client equipment computer resources represented according to a file system
A method for managing communications between a server equipment and a client equipment, wherein the server equipment provides to the client equipment computer resources represented in the server equipment according to at least one file system, and upon receipt of a first request of the client equipment for access to a first resource dedicated to provide identifiers, the server equipment performs the following steps: —allocating a memory space for storing a data structure representing a file of the server, —determining an identifier based on an address of the allocated memory space, and—transmitting the determined identifier to the client equipment for use in later requests for accessing second resources of the server. |
| US09215292B2 |
Information processing apparatus, data distribution system, method of controlling information processing apparatus, and storage medium
A detection unit detects connection status information of the plurality of information processing terminals and a generation condition for data in the information processing terminals. A derivation unit derives a predicted data amount predicted to be uploaded in a unit time to the information processing apparatus and a processable data amount that the information processing apparatus is capable of processing in a unit time based on at least one of the connection status information or the generation condition. A request unit makes a request to at least one information processing terminal, in a case where the predicted data amount exceeds the processable data amount, to change the generation condition for data in the at least one information processing terminal in order to lower a data amount. |
| US09215289B2 |
Audience management in a social networking system
A social networking system manages the accessibility of content items provided by users and directed to various audiences in the social networking system. An author provides the social networking system with a content item, a content item tag indicating an association between the content item and a tagged user, and a definition of a first audience who may view the content item. The social networking system then allows the tagged user to provide a definition of a second audience who may view the content item, where the second audience may contains users who are not in the first audience defined by the original author. The social networking system then determines whether a viewing user may view the posted content item (and tag) based on whether the viewing user is in at least one of the first audience and the second audience. |
| US09215286B1 |
Creating a social network based on an activity
A system for creating an activity-based social includes receiving information from a computing device of a participant in an activity, and determining that the information qualifies the participant for membership in a social network associated with the activity. The system also includes associating the participant with the social network, and enabling access, by the participant, to an electronic portal that provides access to the social network. |
| US09215285B2 |
Multi-point social media geotracker
A database server stores information about content posted to multiple content storage servers. A client device makes a reading request for information from the database server about content posted to content storage servers within a span of locations selected by a user and within a span of time selected by a user. The database server stores information about content posted to multiple content storage servers in response to a loading request for content posted within a distance of multiple locations. |
| US09215282B2 |
Virtual collaboration session access
Methods are provided that include receiving a request to couple a first client device to a communication session, wherein the request includes user identification information. The method may include determining a number of client devices coupled to the communication session and comparing the number of client devices coupled to the communication session to a maximum number of client devices to determine whether the maximum number of client devices are coupled to the communication session. The method may also include when the maximum number of client devices are coupled to the communication session, determining whether a user associated with the first client device is a preferred user based on at least the user identification information and when the user is the preferred user, coupling the client device associated with the preferred user to the communication session. |
| US09215274B2 |
Methods and systems for generating recommendations to make settings at vehicles via cloud systems
Methods and systems are provided for processing information associated with vehicles via one or more servers of a cloud system. One example method includes establishing a communication link between a computing device associated with a vehicle and a server. The communication link is over a wireless network and the communication link is established in association with a user account. The communication link is established for one or more sessions The method further includes receiving, at the server, a plurality of actions associated with inputs to the vehicle. The plurality of actions are received during the one or more sessions, and generating, by the server, a recommendation to program a setting at the vehicle. One or more of the plurality of actions at the vehicle during the one or more sessions are processed to determine a confidence score associated with generating the recommendation to program the setting. Generation of the recommendation occurs upon reaching or exceeding a predefined threshold. The server then sends to the user account the recommendation to enable programming of the setting for the vehicle. |
| US09215273B2 |
Apparatus for enabling delivery and access of applications and interactive services
The invention provides a system, a method and a computer program product that facilitate access to one or more applications by a computing device. The invention includes determining one or more contexts associated with at least one of the computing device and a user of the computing device, such that the one or more contexts describe at least one of an environment and an activity of the at least one of the user and the computing device. Thereafter at least one contextual tag corresponding to the one or more contexts is generated. Subsequently, the one or more applications associated with the at least one contextual tag are identified and the computing device is enabled to access the one or more applications. |
| US09215272B2 |
Method for securely distributing meeting data from interactive whiteboard projector
Distributing meeting data from an interactive whiteboard projector to at least one computer of a meeting member, comprises: in the interactive whiteboard projector, using a processor to save meeting data, generate a password, display a screen with a URL of the projector and the password and use a web server to transfer the meeting data from the interactive whiteboard projector to the at least one computer. |
| US09215268B1 |
System and method for selection and switching of content sources for a streaming content session
Embodiments may include the generation and use of content source rankings for improving playback quality of content streams. In embodiments, a merchant system may collect and aggregate multiple quality metrics for different content streams that various content sources provide to various clients. The merchant system may utilize the quality metrics to generate rankings of content sources for clients. In some cases, a client itself may generate a ranking of content sources for use in the selection of content sources. The merchant system may provide such rankings to clients to improve the content stream playback experience on the client. For instance, at content acquisition time, a client may request a content stream from a content resource ranked highest on a content source ranking provided by the merchant. If the content stream degrades, the client may source subsequent portions of the content stream from another highly ranked content source of the ranking. |
| US09215260B2 |
Scalable robust live streaming system
A system and method for a live streaming platform that can redundantly process input streams in parallel ingestion pipelines is disclosed herein. Ingested input streams in the parallel pipelines can be segmented using a stable segmentation function that creates identical segments in each of the streams in the pipelines. If errors occur, or there are disruptions in one or more of the input streams or pipelines, the live streaming platform can switch between the input streams on a per segment basis to provide reliable streaming feeds to a content distribution network. A master stream can be constructed from each of the master segments per a time period based on a reliability of each of the input streams and segments. Practicing pipeline affinity by selecting subsequent master segments from the same pipeline can minimize glitches. |
| US09215259B2 |
Internet streaming and dynamic display of web cam videos
Internet streaming from broadcast radio or television stations is described wherein triggers for dynamic content from internal or external systems cause an encoder system to generate command messages, and optionally to synchronize those command messages with any delays associated with the triggering events. Command messages are delivered through a streaming media distribution system to client media players which obtain or present the dynamic content, in association with any desired configuration changes to the appearance of the media player or the method or manner in which the dynamic content is presented. |
| US09215255B2 |
Transfer method and apparatus for seamless content transfer
A method and apparatus for seamlessly transferring content from a first communication device to a second communication device is disclosed. The method includes establishing a communication session with a controller for streaming content and sending a request to the controller for sharing the content being currently streamed at the first communication device. The request includes an option tag indicating a share request and an address of the second communication device to which the content is to be shared. The method further includes receiving a notification from the controller once the second communication device starts receiving the content from a point in time at which the request was sent from the first communication device. |
| US09215254B1 |
Network session management for telephony over hybrid networks
A communication system providing telephony communication across combined circuit switched and packet switched networks, such as a telephone network and the Internet, which are connectable to terminals, such as telephones and computers, for selective communication therebetween. The communication system includes an authorization and account control object in the packet switched network, multiple gateways between the circuit switched and packet switched networks providing controlled connectivity between those networks, and an information retrieval object in the packet switched network. |
| US09215253B1 |
Method, device, and system for real-time call annoucement
A method and corresponding device and system to provide a real-time call announcement to a called device. According to the method, a called device begins receiving call announcement media without having first engaged in session setup signaling to set up a session through which to receive the call announcement media. In normal operation, the device would disregard such incoming media, since no session has been set up for receiving the media. As disclosed, however, the device will also receive at about the same time a call setup request that seeks setup of the underlying call, and the device will treat its receipt of that call setup request as a key to allow playout of the call announcement media even though no session has been set up for receipt of the call announcement media. The called device will then play out the call announcement media as an announcement for the call. |
| US09215251B2 |
Apparatus, systems, and methods for managing data security
Disclosed embodiments of a data protection mechanism can provide secure data management. In particular, the disclosed embodiments provide secure data management mechanisms that can control transfer of data items so that contents of protected data items are not accessible to non-authorized parties. For example, the disclosed system can prevent an application from storing a protected file using a new file name. As another example, the disclosed system can prevent an application from sending a protected file to another computing device over a communication network. |
| US09215243B2 |
Identifying and ranking pirated media content
A computer identifies and ranks URL hyperlinks to possible pirated media content by searching a web page from a first website for one or more indicator keywords, wherein a strength of an indicator keyword is related to a likelihood of pirated media content. Responsive to locating a plurality of instances of the one or more indicator keywords, identifying a plurality of hyperlinks respectively associated with one or more of the plurality of instances. Weighting, the identified plurality of hyperlinks based on at least one of: a strength of associated indicator keywords, number of associated indicator keywords, number of times each hyperlink was identified, and date of posting. Ranking the plurality of hyperlinks according to weight indicating a relative likelihood that respective hyperlinks point to pirated media content in a ranked list. |
| US09215241B2 |
Reputation-based threat protection
Information concerning a plurality of identified threats provided by a plurality of preselected sources is stored in memory. An e-mail message may be received over a communication network. The received e-mail message is separated into a plurality of components. The stored information is searched to identify a reputation score associated with each of the plurality of components. It is then determined whether the e-mail is a threat based on the identified reputation score of each of the plurality of components. The determination is sent to a designated recipient. |
| US09215240B2 |
Investigative and dynamic detection of potential security-threat indicators from events in big data
A metric value is determined for each event in a set of events that characterizes a computational communication or object. For example, a metric value could include a length of a URL or agent string in the event. A subset criterion is generated, such that metric values within the subset are relatively separated from a population's center (e.g., within a distribution tail). Application of the criterion to metric values produces a subset. A representation of the subset is presented in an interactive dashboard. The representation can include unique values in the subset and counts of corresponding event occurrences. Clients can select particular elements in the representation to cause more detail to be presented with respect to individual events corresponding to specific values in the subset. Thus, clients can use their knowledge system operations and observance of value frequencies and underlying events to identify anomalous metric values and potential security threats. |
| US09215237B2 |
Communication system, control device, communication method, and program
A communication system includes an information acquisition unit that acquires information for determining an isolation level to which a user terminal belongs, from the user terminal; an isolation level determination unit that determines an isolation level to which the user terminal belongs, based on the acquired information; an isolation level information storage unit that defines whether or not access is possible to respective access destinations for each isolation level; an access control unit that causes a forwarding node(s) to implement forwarding or dropping of a packet, in accordance with whether or not access is possible to the respective access destinations; and a forwarding node(s) that forwards a packet in accordance with control of the access control unit. Stepwise access control is realized using isolation levels. |
| US09215236B2 |
Secure, policy-based communications security and file sharing across mixed media, mixed-communications modalities and extensible to cloud computing such as SOA
A system and method are provided to monitor and prevent potential enterprise policy and/or rule violations by subscribers. |
| US09215233B2 |
Server capable of authenticating identity and identity authentication method thereof
An identity authentication method is applied in a server which stores a relationship among a number of facial images, questions, and facial expressions. Each facial image corresponds to one or more questions. Each question corresponds to one facial expression. The method includes the following steps. Obtaining images captured with an electronic device when the electronic device attempts to login to the server. Determining whether the image comprises a human face matching one stored facial image. If yes, determining one or more questions corresponding to one facial image according to the relationship. Outputting the determined questions and then obtaining user images captured by the electronic device. Identifying the human face and a facial expression of the identified human face. Determining whether the identified facial expression matches the facial expression corresponding to the output question. If yes, determining that the identity authentication is successful. |
| US09215232B2 |
Certificate renewal
Certificate renewal is described. A processing device searches a certificate authority (CA) database of digital certificates to identify a certificate that satisfies an expiration condition for automatic renewal. The processing device renews the certificate as a renewed certificate without any user interaction. The processing device is to renew the certificate in view of the expiration condition. The expiration condition includes an expiration of the certificate. When renewing of the certificate, the processing device reuses a key of the certificate for the renewed certificate and sets a new expiration date for the renewed certificate. |
| US09215231B1 |
Using a fraud metric for provisioning of digital certificates
A method for provisioning digital certificates in a multi-tenant network environment may include receiving an API request for a digital certificate from a representative of a customer entity. Existing account information of the representative may be retrieved, the existing account information associated with at least one service provided within the multi-tenant network environment and used by the representative. The identity of the representative may be verified based at least in part on digital certificate authentication information within the API request. At least one fraud metric may be generated for the representative based on the retrieved existing account information. The at least one fraud metric may be indicative of fraudulent activity associated with the representative. The identity verification and the at least one fraud metric may be used to determine whether to issue the digital certificate to the customer entity. |
| US09215229B2 |
Systems and methods for establishing cloud-based instances with independent permissions
A method and system for facilitating management of cloud-based service instances, the system including one or more computing systems configured to communicate with at least one multi-tenant computing cloud, and configured to establish a cloud-based service instance hosted in the multi-tenant computing cloud and an access entity with permissions to access the established cloud-based service instance. The system can receive a request for the cloud-based service instance, the request authenticated as originating from a requestor; consult a set of access controls associated with the cloud-based service instance; determine, responsive to the consulting, if the request is allowable by the requestor; and enable, responsive to determining that the request is allowable by the requestor, the requestor to complete the request using a restricted access credential associated with the access entity. |
| US09215227B2 |
Systems and methods for network communications
Systems and methods enable a method including: providing a first system; generating data to be sent over a network link; determining a transport protocol that will be used to transmit data over the network communication link; negotiating connection services to be performed on data that will transmitted over the network communication link; sending a request to open a network communication link; sending a request to the connectivity services of the second system for credentials of the second system; receiving the credentials from the connectivity services module of the second system; verifying that the credentials match an authenticated computer system; opening a network connection between the first system and the second system when the second system's credentials have been verified by the connectivity services module of the first system; and transmitting the data to the second system according to the determining network protocol and negotiated connection services. |
| US09215226B2 |
Dynamically mapping users to groups
Methods and systems for authenticating users and assigning authenticated users to groups are provided. A method receives a user credential and email address. The method forwards an authentication request including the email address and credential to a remote authentication provider. Based in part on the presence of a full user name in a received response, the method determines that the user is authenticated. Another method extracts a domain name from a received email address of an authenticated user. In response to determining that the domain name is associated with a group, the method assigns the user to the group. A system includes memory with instructions for assigning an authenticated user to a group. The system receives the user's email address and extracts a domain name from the email address. In response to determining that the domain name is associated with a group, the system assigns the user to the group. |
| US09215225B2 |
Mobile device locking with context
A method and system for locking a mobile device on an interface are described. A user logs on to a mobile device with a user name. The mobile device then determines a context for the mobile device based on one or more operational parameters and/or the user name. For example, a context for the mobile device may be a current location of the device. Based on the context and user name, the mobile device may run in locked mode. In locked mode, applications are selected to be presented on the mobile device based on the user name and context. The mobile device is locked on a springboard that presents only the selected applications to the user for launching. A user may switch between launched applications on the mobile device, but the user may only switch between launched applications that are presented on the springboard. |
| US09215222B2 |
First communication unit obtaining second information apparatus address information to establish a second communication link
In a communication of audio signals between first and second portable-telephone devices through a first portable-telephone base station, a second portable-telephone base station and a portable-telephone line network has been connected, IP addresses are exchanged. The IP addresses are for communicating image data by first and second terminal adapters associated with the first and second portable-telephone devices respectively through an OCN. Image data is then transmitted to the IP addresses through the OCN. |