| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09465983B2 |
Method and imaging apparatus to automatically display and/or measure bone variations in medical image data
In a method and apparatus to automatically display and/or measure bone variations in medical image data, an image data set of an examination region is acquired and the bone regions in the image data set are automatically segmented in a first segmentation followed by a second segmentation in which bone variation regions in the image data set are automatically segmented on the basis of the results of the first segmentation. The results of the first and/or second segmentations are stored and/or displayed. |
| US09465977B1 |
Face template balancing
Implementations generally relate to face template balancing. In some implementations, a method includes generating face templates corresponding to respective images. The method also includes matching the images to a user based on the face templates. The method also includes receiving a determination that one or more matched images are mismatched images. The method also includes flagging one or more face templates corresponding to the one or more mismatched images as negative face templates. |
| US09465974B2 |
Electronic device providing downloading of enrollment finger biometric data via short-range wireless communication
An electronic system may include a first electronic device comprising a first finger biometric sensor, a first processor capable of collecting enrollment finger biometric data from the first finger biometric sensor, and a first short-range wireless transceiver coupled to the first processor. The system may further include a second electronic device comprising a second finger biometric sensor, a second short-range wireless transceiver, and a second processor capable of collecting to-be matched finger biometric data from the second finger biometric sensor, and downloading the enrollment finger biometric data from the first processor via a short-range wireless link between the first and second short-range wireless transceivers based upon the collected to-be matched biometric data. |
| US09465973B1 |
Enhanced capacitive fingerprint sensing unit
An enhanced capacitive fingerprint sensing unit is disclosed. The enhanced capacitive fingerprint sensing unit includes a base structure and a fingerprint sensing structure. The fingerprint sensing structure has a first inter-metal dielectric layer, a second metal layer, a second inter-metal dielectric layer, a third metal layer, and a passivation layer. By connecting the third metal layer to Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) device, anti-Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) is available. By increasing the thicknesses of the first inter-metal dielectric layer and the second inter-metal dielectric layer, sensitivity of the enhanced capacitive fingerprint sensing unit can be improved. |
| US09465962B2 |
Method and apparatus for verifying two dimensional mark quality
A method and system for applying a two dimensional mark on a first surface of a component and assessing mark quality, the method comprising the steps of positioning a component with a first surface at a first station, applying a two dimensional mark to the first surface at the first station wherein the applied mark is intended to codify a first information subset, obtaining an image of the applied two dimensional mark at the first station using a stationary camera that has a field of view that is centered along a trajectory that forms an obtuse angle with at least a portion of the first surface and that includes at least a portion of the first surface, performing a mark quality assessment on the obtained image and performing a secondary function as a result of the mark quality assessment. |
| US09465960B2 |
Physics-based authentication
In some examples, a controller is configured to generate a key based on a physics-based output of a component. The controller may, for example, use the key to authenticate communication between at least two nodes, to encrypt data, or to decrypt data. In some examples, the component includes one or more subcomponents, each subcomponent including a cell filled with a gas, a light source configured to transmit a light through the gas cell, and a photodetector configured to sense light transmitted through the gas cell. The photodetector of each subcomponent is configured to generate an electrical signal that changes as a function of one or more properties of the light sourced by the light source, transmitted through the gas cell. The output of the component can is based on the signals generate by the one or more photodetectors. |
| US09465957B2 |
Preventing predetermined type of configuration changes to computing devices in a computing system servicing a critical job
Preventing changes to computing devices in a computing system servicing a critical job, including: identifying, by a job protection module, a critical job executing in the computing system; identifying, by the job protection module, one or more computing devices in the computing system utilized during execution of the critical job; and locking, by the job protection module, each of the one or more computing devices in the computing system utilized during execution of the critical job from undergoing a configuration change during execution of the critical job. |
| US09465956B2 |
System and method for privacy-aware information extraction and validation
Disclosed herein is a system to validate information about a user, or users, derived from publicly-accessible data. The system comprises a validation system that uses private data about the user to validate the user information derived from the publicly-accessible data. The validation system may receive a validation request in connection with an inconclusive result derived from the publicly-accessible data. |
| US09465954B1 |
Method and system for tracking masking of data
Methods and systems for tracking masking of one or more data elements in a datastore are disclosed. The methods involve monitoring one or more masking operations on the one or more data elements in the datastore. Thereafter, one or more metadata associated with the one or more masking operations are identified. Subsequent to identifying the one or more metadata, at least a part of the one or more metadata may be recorded. This metadata may then be transmitted to the destination when a copy (full/partial) of the original data is made, enabling the same information on masking to be obtained at the destination, as at the source. |
| US09465952B2 |
Systems and methods for secure multi-tenant data storage
Systems and methods are provided for transmitting data for secure storage. For each of two or more data sets, a plurality of shares are generated containing a distribution of data from an encrypted version of the data set. The shares are then stored in a shared memory device, wherein a data set may be reconstructed from a threshold number of the associated plurality of shares using an associated key. Also provided are systems and methods for providing access to secured data. A plurality of shares containing a distribution of data from an encrypted version of a data set are stored in a memory device. A client is provided with a virtual machine that indicates the plurality of shares, and the capability to reconstruct the data set from the plurality of shares using an associated key. |
| US09465947B2 |
System and method for encryption and key management in cloud storage
A cloud storage system includes an encryption server configured to encrypt a plurality of data by using encryption keys having a hierarchy, the hierarchy of encryption keys corresponding to a relationship among the plurality of encrypted data, and a cloud storage server configured to store the plurality of encrypted data. |
| US09465933B2 |
Virtualizing a hardware monotonic counter
Embodiments of an invention for virtualizing a hardware monotonic counter are disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a hardware monotonic counter, virtualization logic, a first non-volatile storage location, and a second non-volatile storage location. The virtualization logic is to create a virtual monotonic counter from the hardware monotonic counter. The first non-volatile storage location is to store an indicator that the count of the hardware monotonic counter has changed. The second non-volatile storage location is to store an indicator that the count of the virtual monotonic counter has changed. |
| US09465931B2 |
Secure online gaming registration system with privacy controls
An online gaming registration system allows online gaming patrons to register once and use this registration to create online gaming accounts with gaming Web sites, thereby avoiding having to show proof of residency, age and other requirements set by regulatory entities multiple times. Residency rules and other requirements vary from one jurisdiction to another and the present invention addresses some of the issues that arise from this. An online gaming Web site receives a login from an online player over the Internet. The site determines that the player has an account with the online gaming site and that the account is linked to an online gaming registration system account. The online gaming site receives claims-based data relating to the online player and accepts the player as verified for online gaming at the gaming Web site. |
| US09465926B2 |
Method of obfuscating a code
A method of obfuscating a code is provided, wherein the method comprises performing a first level obfuscating technique on a code to generate a first obfuscated code, and performing a second level obfuscating technique on the first obfuscated code. In particular, the code may be a software code or a software module. Furthermore, the first level obfuscating technique and the second obfuscating may be different. In particular, the second level obfuscating technique may perform a deobfuscation. |
| US09465924B2 |
Apparatus for preventing replay attack and method for preventing replay attack
An apparatus for preventing replay attacks and a method for preventing replay attacks are provided in this invention, wherein the apparatus for preventing replay attacks comprises: an acquisition unit for, when a request for operating a digital content is received, acquiring current location information of a set of placeholder files; a determination unit for determining whether the current location information is consistent with recorded location information of the placeholder file; a protection unit for, when inconsistent as determined by the determination unit, wherein there is a correspondence between the digital content and the set of placeholder files. |
| US09465923B2 |
Blackouts architecture
In embodiments, apparatuses, methods and storage media are described that are associated with blackout rules for media content. In embodiments, one or more segments may be generated from the media content, one or more of the generated segments containing a blackout rule identifier. The blackout rule identifier may identify a blackout rule describing one or more limitations to access to the piece of media content. When displaying the media content, a client device may retrieve the blackout rule based at least in part on the blackout rule identifier. The client device may then limit access to the media content if directed to do so by the blackout rule. |
| US09465922B2 |
Methods for secure data distribution
A method for secure distribution of data in an interchange network, comprises having a network in which data records stored on at least one computer; and including an authorization service, where the authorization service grants a contractor access to at least a portion of the data records; and a watermarking module that adds one or more artificial records to said portion. The artificial records cannot be distinguished from the data records by the contractor and are valid for processing in the same way as the data records. |
| US09465915B2 |
Association of support surfaces and beds
Systems, methods, beds, supports surfaces and machine readable medium for associating beds and support surface of a healthcare facility are disclosed. A surface association system for a healthcare facility may comprise a plurality of beds. The system may further comprise a computing device and a plurality of support surfaces to be placed upon beds of the plurality of beds. The computing device may associate a support surface of the plurality of support surfaces with a bed of the plurality of beds. The computing device may make the association based upon status data received from the plurality of beds and the plurality of support surfaces. The support surface and/or bed to be associated may initiate a surface association request. The computing device, in response to the surface association request, may request performance of one or more actions on the bed and/or support surface to be associated to identify the bed and/or support surface from the beds and support surfaces of the healthcare facility. |
| US09465914B2 |
System for monitoring and recording patient vital signs
A patient vital sign acquisition and recording apparatus for obtaining patient vital sign measurements and recording the vital sign measurements in an electronic medical record is disclosed. A user interface module receives a range of acceptable vital sign measurements and a schedule of how often to record the vital sign measurements. A monitor interface module obtains from a telemetry monitoring system vital sign measurements associated with the patient in accordance with the schedule. An alarm reporting module generates an alarm if the obtained vital sign measurements are outside the range of acceptable vital sign measurements. An interpretation module, in response obtaining the vital sign measurements, causes automatically records the obtained vital sign measurements in an electronic medical record associated with the patient. |
| US09465913B1 |
Online repository for personal information
A method and system for securely storing and disbursing a first party's personal information to authorized requesters is described. Each information object is assigned a security classification level. When a second party requests information, based on the second party's status, an authorized portion of the first party's personal information is released to the second party. Changes to the first party's personal information are transmitted to designated entities. Also described is a method whereby changes are effective at a future date and information as to when the changes would be effective may be transmitted to designated entities. |
| US09465912B2 |
Method and apparatus for mining temporal pattern
An apparatus and a method for mining temporal pattern are provided. A method for mining temporal pattern includes generating a data pattern group comprising data patterns from sequential data, generating a candidate pattern group comprising candidate patterns from the data pattern group, calculating a support value for a candidate pattern in a candidate pattern group based on a discrepancy value of the candidate pattern, and determining whether the candidate pattern satisfies a predetermined pattern requirement, based on the calculated support value. |
| US09465911B2 |
Prediction of phenotypes and traits based on the metabolome
The invention provides methods for characterizing metabolic profiles, phenotypic profiles and trait profiles in plants or groups of plants. Additionally, methods for establishing an unbiased model between a phenotypic profile and a metabolic profile, or between a trait profile and metabolic profile, are also provided by the invention. Further, methods for using such unbiased models to accurately predict the development of a phenotype of interest or a trait of interest in an independent, immature plant are also provided. In one embodiment, immature plants are selected for use based on their predicted development of a phenotype or trait of interest. |
| US09465906B2 |
System and method for integrated circuit manufacturing
Provided is an integrated circuit (IC) manufacturing method. The method includes receiving a design layout of an IC, the design layout having a main feature; performing a process correction to the main feature thereby generating a modified main feature; using a computer, generating a simulated contour of the modified main feature, the simulated contour having a plurality of points; generating a plurality of assistant data in computer readable format, wherein each assistant data includes at least one process performance factor associated with one of the points; and keeping the simulated contour and the assistant data for use by a further process stage, such as mask making, mask inspection, mask repairing, wafer direct writing, wafer inspection, and wafer repairing. |
| US09465905B1 |
Structure for static random access memory
A method in a computer-aided design system for generating a functional design model of a static random access memory is described herein. The method comprises generating a functional representation of a first local evaluation logic coupled to a first set of consecutive global bit lines (GBLs) and a first set of local bit lines (LBLs), the first local evaluation logic comprising a plurality of devices. The method further comprises generating a functional representation of a second local evaluation logic communicatively coupled to the first local evaluation logic via the devices; the second local evaluation logic is coupled to a second set of consecutive GBLs and a second set of LBLs. In addition, the second set of consecutive GBLs consecutive to the first set of consecutive GBLs, the first and second evaluation logics to generate signals from the LBLs such that one GBL is to be active at any point in a read or write cycle and the other GBLs are not concurrently active. |
| US09465904B2 |
Device pin mux configuration solving and code generation via Boolean satisfiability
This invention is a signal input/output design tool for integrated circuit input/output design. The connectivity capacity of at least multiplexer connecting internal signals and external lines is expressed as a first set of Boolean expressions. The desired connectivity between internal signals and external lines is expressed is provided by a designer. A programmed general purpose computer expresses the desired connectivity as a second set of Boolean expressions and determines whether said first set of Boolean expressions and said second set of Boolean expressions are Boolean satisfiable. If satisfiable, the design tool generates control signals to configure the at least one multiplexer to achieve the desired connectivity. If not satisfiable, the design tool generates a report indicating which portions of the desired connectivity are achievable and which are not. |
| US09465901B2 |
Stretch dummy cell insertion in finFET process
A method embodiment includes identifying, by a processor, an empty region in an integrated circuit (IC) layout, wherein the empty region is a region not including any active fins. The method further includes providing a standard dummy fin cell and forming an expanded dummy fin cell. The standard dummy fin cell includes a plurality of partitions. The expanded dummy fin cell is larger than the standard dummy fin cell, and the expanded dummy fin cell includes integer multiples of each of the plurality of partitions. The empty region is filled with a plurality of dummy fin cells, wherein the plurality of dummy fin cells includes the expanded dummy fin cell. The plurality of dummy fin cells is implemented in an IC. |
| US09465900B2 |
System and method for designing semiconductor package using computing system, apparatus for fabricating semiconductor package including the system, and semiconductor package designed by the method
A system for designing a semiconductor package using a computing system, comprising: a virtual stacking module configured to receive a layout parameter for a first chip, a layout parameter for a second chip, and a layout parameter for a package substrate, and in response to the layout parameters of the first chip, the second chip, and the package substrate, generate a plurality of virtual layouts in which the first and second chips are stacked, on the package substrate; a modeling module configured to model operating parameters for the first and second chips and the package substrate in response to the virtual layouts; and a characteristic analyzing module configured to analyze operating characteristics of the virtual layouts in response to the modeled operating parameters. |
| US09465899B2 |
Method for provisioning decoupling capacitance in an integrated circuit
A method of provisioning an integrated circuit with decoupling capacitance includes identifying in an initial design of the integrated circuit lacking decoupling elements, a standard cell instance satisfying a transient power or frequency switching criteria. Based on a transient power characteristic of the standard cell instance, a decoupling capacitance requirement for the standard cell instance is determined. The decoupling capacitance requirement indicates a capacitance sufficient to bring the standard cell instance into compliance with a stability constraint on a supply voltage node of the standard cell instance. A decoupling capacitor satisfying the decoupling capacitance requirement is provisioned by appending an appropriate sized decap transistor having one or more gate electrode elements to the standard cell instance. The size of the decap transistor may be derived from the required decoupling capacitance, the amount of decoupling capacitance contributed by each gate electrode element, and the area required for each gate electrode element. |
| US09465897B2 |
Analysis of stress impact on transistor performance
Roughly described, a method for approximating stress-induced mobility enhancement in a channel region in an integrated circuit layout, including approximating the stress at each of a plurality of sample points in the channel, converting the stress approximation at each of the sample points to a respective mobility enhancement value, and averaging the mobility enhancement values at all the sample points. The method enables integrated circuit stress analysis that takes into account stresses contributed by multiple stress generation mechanisms, stresses having vector components other than along the length of the channel, and stress contributions (including mitigations) due to the presence of other structures in the neighborhood of the channel region under study, other than the nearest STI interfaces. The method also enables stress analysis of large layout regions and even full-chip layouts, without incurring the computation costs of a full TCAD simulation. |
| US09465894B1 |
Generation of section view cutting lines with automatic constraints
Creating a section view of a computer-aided design model includes creating a cutting line to apply to the computer-aided design model by at least one cut operation, constraining the cutting line by selecting a constraining point on the computer-aided design model or first inferring a geometric candidate to constrain the initial cutting line, and enhancing the cutting line by automatically adding an enhancement according to an enhancement type and adjusting the enhancement via a cursor-controlled device according to a set of rules. |
| US09465892B2 |
Associating metadata with media objects using time
In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a method for associating metadata with a media object is provided. The method provides the ability to tag, or bookmark, a point in time for future use. The method includes receiving the metadata, an associated time condition, and an associated user identification. The method further includes storing at least the time condition. The at least stored time condition is used, at least in part, for associating the metadata with the media object. The media object is then provided to the user. In some embodiments the media object is not available for association with the metadata at the time the metadata is received. In other embodiments, the media object is provided by an external application. |
| US09465889B2 |
Method and system for identifying data and users of interest from patterns of user interaction with existing data
A system and method for identifying relevant data and experts from a large data set that are relevant to a researcher, scientific project, or other analysis project using a recommendation algorithm utilizing distance metrics based on structural, annotation, and usage information associated with data elements. |
| US09465887B2 |
Systems and methods for optimizing content layout using behavior metrics
Systems and methods for optimizing content layout using behavior metrics are provided. Behavioral data is collected for a content item presented on a client device. The behavioral data indicates various locations within a display area of the content item at which a user action (e.g., clicking) occurs. The behavioral data is used to assign weights to various components of a layout scheme for the content item. A user action that occurs within an area of the content item associated with a particular component of the layout scheme contributes to the weight of the corresponding component. The weights associated with each component of the layout scheme are used to optimize the layout for the content item. Components with greater assigned weights are highlighted or emphasized. The display sizes of components in the optimized layout scheme may correspond to the weights associated with the components. |
| US09465886B2 |
Apparatus and method of composing web document and apparatus of setting web document arrangement
An apparatus and method of composing a web document and an apparatus to set a web document arrangement are provided. The apparatus to compose a web document includes a generation module which generates a plurality of frames by analyzing a source of a web document, a composition module which arranges the generated frames using a predetermined frame arrangement mode, and an output module which displays the arranged frames on a screen. |
| US09465881B2 |
User displays using N-way paginated merge of information from diverse sources
Identifying a set of information sources from a plurality of N diverse information sources, then, responsive to user input, retrieving a first set of data items from a first information source after determining a first extent of information retrieval, and retrieving a second set of data items from the second information source after determining a second extent of information retrieval and so on for all of the N diverse information sources. The extents of the retrieval comprise at most a number of data items specified by a user (e.g., corresponding to a page size). The method continues by sorting all of the N set of data items fetched from the diverse sources in Round Robin fashion until at least a specific number of elements are merged for generating a paged, sorted set of data items to be displayed in a paginated format. |
| US09465879B2 |
Search engine recency using content preview
Disclosed herein is use of a preview of content from a target document, as provided by a content preview source such as a Really Simple Syndication (RSS) feed, by a search engine. The content preview source includes the preview of the target document's content and a reference, e.g., a Universal Resource Locator (URL) or other link. A content preview document is generated using data extracted from the content preview source. The content preview document is made available in a searchable index used by a search engine to respond to a search query. A fetch operation is scheduled to fetch the target document using the reference provided in the content preview source. Once fetched, the data extracted from the content preview source can be associated with the target document, and can be used in presenting the target document in search results. |
| US09465877B2 |
Globally unique identifiers in an online content management system
Systems, methods, and computer-readable storage media for implementing globally unique identifiers (GUIDs) in a multi-user network-based content management environment, from the perspective of a server creating a GUID for a content item, and serving requests based on the GUID. A content management system can identify a content item at a location within the data storage. Each user of the content management system can be associated with a respective user account having an amount of storage space within the storage environment. The content management system can model a user account as a collection of content item objects and globally unique identifiers that are independent of a directory-based hierarchy of content items. |
| US09465875B2 |
Searching based on an identifier of a searcher
A query is received to search data, where the query includes a search term. A search of the data is performed in response to the query, wherein the search produces result data based on the search term and an identifier of a searcher submitting the query. |
| US09465872B2 |
Segment sensitive query matching
Exemplary techniques are provided which may be implemented using various methods, apparatuses, and/or articles of manufacture to provide or otherwise support segment sensitive query matching based on segmented portions of web pages and/or providing related information for use in information extraction and/or information retrieval systems. In certain example implementations techniques may be provided for determining whether a query match exists between a document and obtained query terms based, at least in part, on labeled portion information associated with a plurality of segmented portions of a document. |
| US09465870B2 |
System and method for digital video retrieval involving speech recognition
Disclosed are systems, methods, and computer readable media for retrieving digital images. The method embodiment includes converting a descriptive audio stream of a digital video that is provided for the visually impaired to text and then aligning that text to the appropriate segment of the digital video. The system then indexes the converted text from the descriptive audio stream with the text's relationship to the digital video. The system enables queries using action words describing a desired scene from a digital video. |
| US09465865B2 |
Annotating entities using cross-document signals
Techniques for annotating an entity in a document corpus using cross-document signals. A method includes determining which documents in a document corpus mention an entity of interest, clustering the documents that mention an entity of interest according to a temporal signal, a structural signal and/or a content signal, thereby forming at least one cluster of documents, and annotating at least one document in the at least one cluster of documents by marking each occurrence of the entity in the at least one document. |
| US09465864B2 |
Training a search query intent classifier using wiki article titles and a search click log
Techniques are described herein for training a search query intent classifier using wiki article titles and a search click log. Titles of wiki articles that correspond to links that are associated with a specified wiki article and/or titles of wiki articles that are included in a category that includes the specified wiki article are extracted and included with the title of the specified wiki article in an initial set. Each title in the initial set is correlated with respective clicked URI(s) using a search click log. The initial set is expanded to include search terms that are correlated to the clicked URIs based on the search click log to provide an expanded set. The search query intent classifier is trained to classify search queries with respect to a query intent that is associated with the title of the specified wiki article based on the expanded set. |
| US09465863B2 |
Content-providing method and system
A content-providing method and system, including identifying a representative type cluster by clustering content related to behavioral data which represents a use history of a user, according to type of the content, mapping the representative type cluster to a time interval, and storing the representative type cluster and the time interval. |
| US09465859B2 |
Computer-implemented method of arranging text items in a predefined order
A computer-implemented method of and a device, such as a base station for a headset, for arranging text items in a predefined order, comprising storing, in the memory of a peripheral device, a collection of multiple text items arranged in multiple sets of text items and in multiple groups of text items; storing a respective code item with a respective group of text items; and storing a sort key that has values that designate a predefined order of the text items in each set. The sort key is appended to the text items and comprises at least one character with a value within the Private Use range of the Unicode format. |
| US09465858B2 |
Systems and methods for authenticating and aiding in indexing of and searching for electronic files
According to some aspects there is provided a system, method and a device for generating at least one electronic file. The method includes receiving primary data for at least one page to be included in an electronic file; receiving metadata associated with the primary data, the metadata comprising a plurality of tags and corresponding tag values associated therewith; generating a globally unique identifier associated with the page based upon the primary data and the metadata associated therewith; storing the globally unique identifier as a tag value for a unique identifier tag in the metadata associated with that page; generating the at least one page for the file, the at least one page comprising the page data and the metadata including the globally unique identifier; if the at least one page includes a plurality of pages, repeating above to generate a plurality of the pages for the electronic file; and storing the file comprising the at least one generated page in a data storage device. |
| US09465856B2 |
Cloud-based document suggestion service
Systems and methods are disclosed for suggesting relevant documents to a local user. In one embodiment, a method is disclosed comprising determining, at a local device, a set of selection criteria for suggestion of relevant documents to the local user, the suggestion criteria including at least one of keywords and document metadata; retrieving a plurality of file statistics from a remote server, wherein at least one of the file statistics has been created by a remote user; creating a table of suggestions from the plurality of file statistics and from the set of suggestion criteria; and suggesting at least one file to the local user based on the table of suggestion criteria. |
| US09465845B2 |
Dynamic card validation
A card validation system comprises an interface and one or more processors. The interface receives a request to validate a card and a set of cell identifiers of a card validation matrix from a user. The set of cell identifiers are determined by the user. The interface further receives one or more received cell values corresponding to the set of cell identifiers of the card validation matrix. The one or more processors determines a set of stored cell values corresponding to the set of cell identifiers of the card validation matrix and compares the set of received cell values to the set of stored cell values. Based at least in part upon the comparison, the one or more processors determine whether the card is validated. |
| US09465840B2 |
Dynamically indentifying and preventing skewed partitions in a shared-nothing database
Dynamically identifying and preventing skewed partitions in a shared-nothing database is provided. The database management system software receives a parameter for identifying a threshold value associated with at least one distribution key value. Optimizer statistics are gathered on a first table that is distributed across one or more partitions in the shared-nothing database, wherein the first table includes a first table name. Distribution key skew is identified based on the gathered optimizer statistics indicating the threshold value being exceeded. A second table with an alternate distribution key, is created having a second table name for receiving overflow data rows associated with the at least one distribution key value based on the identified distribution key skew. A union all view is created based on the first and the second table. |
| US09465839B2 |
Dynamically integrating disparate computer-aided dispatch systems
Systems and methods for dynamically integrating disparate computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems are disclosed. The systems and methods provide bi-directional interoperability between disparate CAD systems and maintain stateful ongoing interactions between interconnected CAD systems. Information objects in one CAD system are associated and bound to related objects in other CAD systems through a centralized information hub that transforms data items intelligently to facilitate communication and interaction between the CAD systems connected to the hub. The described systems and methods maintain complete and current perspectives of all relevant information for each CAD system connected to the information hub, thereby eliminating the need for point-to-point intelligence maintained by the CAD systems about the other interconnected CAD systems. As information updates are passed from CAD systems to the information hub and back out to other CAD systems, the information hub transforms and evaluates the information updates ensuring that only necessary information updates are forwarded. |
| US09465836B2 |
Enhanced business object retrieval
A request for at least a portion of a business object is received by a database from a client in a first half of a roundtrip between the client and the database. Each of the tables includes a primary key column and a plurality of records. The primary key column provides, for each record in the table, a primary key for one of a plurality of business objects. Thereafter, the database identifies records within a set of tables among a larger number of tables in the database by matching a primary key associated with the business object with the primary key in the primary key column. Once this identification has been made, the database obtains all values responsive to the request from the identified record and transmits, in a second half of the roundtrip between the client and the database, the obtained values for the business object to the client. |
| US09465831B2 |
System and method for optimizing storage of multi-dimensional data in data storage
This technology relates to method and optimization systems for optimizing storage of multi-dimensional data in data storage. The method comprises analyzing a plurality of queries received over period of time from one or more client machines. Then, a query pattern is determined from plurality of queries. Based on query pattern dimensionality of data is identified for determining data storage strategy. The dimensionality is characterized into 11 dimensions comprising 4 standard level dimensions and 7 higher level dimensions. A highest dimension out of 7 higher dimensions is parallel data storage dimension. Based on storage strategy, at least one of data and columns of a table is segmented in data storage. Next, data is stored in remote data storage when data is an element of last higher level dimension. Then, higher level dimensions are fragmented into one or more smaller level dimensions when data is element greater than 11 dimensions. |
| US09465827B1 |
Proximity based management services
Described are techniques for determining a list of data storage systems. Filtering criteria is used and includes a distance threshold and associated distance condition denoting a distance with respect to the management device. A set of one or more data storage systems meeting the filtering criteria is determined. Information is displayed regarding the set of data storage systems. |
| US09465818B2 |
Finger biometric sensor data synchronization via a cloud computing device and related methods
An electronic system may include a first electronic device comprising a first finger biometric sensor and a first processor. The first processor may be capable of collecting enrollment finger biometric data from the first finger biometric sensor. The system may further include a cloud computing device capable of uploading and storing the enrollment finger biometric data, and a second electronic device. The second electronic device may include a second finger biometric sensor, and a second processor capable of collecting to-be matched finger biometric data from the second finger biometric sensor, and downloading the enrollment finger biometric data from the cloud computing device based upon matching between the enrollment and to-be matched finger biometric data. |
| US09465817B2 |
Method and system for attaching a metatag to a digital image
A system and method for tagging an image of an individual in a plurality of photos is disclosed herein. A feature vector of an individual is used to analyze a set of photos on a social networking website such as Facebook® to determine if an image of the individual is present in a photo of the set of photos. Photos having an image of the individual are tagged preferably by listing a URL or URI for each of the photos in a database. |
| US09465815B2 |
Method and apparatus for acquiring additional information of electronic device including camera
A method and an apparatus for acquiring additional information of an electronic device including a camera are provided. The method includes displaying a preview image when the camera is driven and collecting information and situation information about a subject, extracting shutter attribute information according to the collected information; displaying a shutter button corresponding to the shutter attribute information, and storing the preview image received from the camera, the situation information, and the shutter attribute information in response to a selection of a user for the shutter button. |
| US09465810B2 |
Method and system for a fast full style system check using multithreaded read ahead
A method for file system checking in a storage device. The method includes executing a computer system having a plurality microprocessor cores, initiating a file system check operation by using a file system check agent that execute on the computer system and accesses a storage device, and validating a plurality of meta-data structures of the file system. The method further includes dividing and allocating the metadata structures among a plurality of worker threads. For each worker thread, data corresponding to the metadata structures is processed using a read ahead operation. file system check is processed to completion, wherein the read ahead operation feeds data corresponding to the metadata structures to each of the plurality of worker threads in parallel. |
| US09465808B1 |
Deduplication featuring variable-size duplicate data detection and fixed-size data segment sharing
A hybrid deduplication system operates to detect variable-sized deduplication matches, while performing the storage deduplication on fixed-size segments of data. The hybrid deduplication system calculates unique identifiers for variable-sized sections of data within a data stream being written to a deduplicated data store. The hybrid deduplication system then compares those newly-calculated identifiers to identifiers of variable-sized sections of data that have already been stored within the deduplicated data store. If a match is found, the hybrid deduplication system identifies the location of each of the fixed-size data segment(s), already stored in the deduplicated data store, that include the identified variable-sized section of data. Instead of writing the sections that match already-existing sections to the deduplicated data store, the hybrid deduplication system simply causes the creation of a reference to the identified storage locations, indicating that the data stream being written includes the data in these pre-existing storage locations. |
| US09465807B2 |
Management of file cache
A method and computer program product for managing a file cache with a filesystem cache manager is disclosed. The method may include installing the filesystem cache manager for the file cache by a mount command. The filesystem cache manager may include a specified time interval and a first cache elimination instruction. The method may further include starting a first timer upon the installation of the filesystem cache manager. The method may further include running the first cache elimination instruction when the first timer reaches the specified time interval. |
| US09465806B2 |
Mechanism for facilitating evaluation of data types for dynamic lightweight objects in an on-demand services environment
In accordance with embodiments, there are provided mechanisms and methods for facilitating evaluation of data types for dynamic lightweight objects in an on-demand services environment. In one embodiment and by way of example, a method includes uploading a data file having data at a first computing device in response to a request, and detecting data types relating to the data within the data file. The detecting includes scanning data rows and data columns of the data file. The method may further include classifying the detected data types into one or more categories, and creating one or more dynamic objects based on the one or more categories. |
| US09465805B1 |
Systems and methods for archiving related items
A computer-implemented method for archiving related items may include: 1) identifying a data element on a computing device, 2) identifying at least one additional data element on the computing device that is related to the data element, the data element and the additional related data element collectively representing a group of related data elements, 3) determining, by applying an archiving policy to the group of related data elements, that the entire group of related data elements is eligible for archiving, and then 4) archiving the group of related data elements. Corresponding systems and computer-readable media are also disclosed. |
| US09465804B1 |
Techniques for managing shortcut storage
Techniques for managing shortcut storage are disclosed. In one particular exemplary embodiment, the techniques may be realized as a computer implemented method for managing shortcut storage comprising identifying a shortcut in data storage, determining whether at least one attribute associated with the shortcut meets a specified criteria, modifying the shortcut in the event that the at least one attribute meets the specified criteria. |
| US09465802B2 |
Content storage processing system, content storage processing method, and semiconductor integrated circuit
A content storage device is in a content storage processing system, which includes a plurality of content storage devices connect to one another via a network. The content storage device transmits metadata corresponding to a specified original content and collects metadata that is relevant to the metadata corresponding to the original content from other content storage devices. The content storage device adds information included in the collected metadata to the metadata corresponding to the original content to enrich information included in the metadata corresponding to the original content. |
| US09465800B2 |
Systems and methods for sharing verified identity documents
A method for sharing verified identity documents is disclosed. The method is performed at one or more electronic devices. The client device obtains identity information of a user and a document. The client device extracts identity information from the document. The client device determines that the identity information of the user and the extracted identity information substantially match, and generates at least one verification rating for the document. The client device sends the document, the data extracted from the document, and the at least one verification rating to a server system remote from the client device. This information is then provided by the server system to another party upon approval by the user to share the information with that party. |
| US09465797B2 |
Translating text using a bridge language
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on computer storage media, for translating text using a bridge language. One of the methods includes receiving original text in a source language and data identifying a target language; obtaining bridge language translations for the original text into a bridge language, wherein the bridge language translations comprise one or more dictionary translations; for each bridge language translation, obtaining one or more candidate translations for the bridge language translation into the target language, wherein the candidate translations comprise one or more dictionary translations; determining that a candidate translation is a dictionary translation obtained for a particular bridge language translation and that the particular bridge language translation is a dictionary translation obtained for the original text; determining that the candidate translation is obtained for two or more distinct bridge language translations; and selecting the candidate translation as a preferred translation of the original text. |
| US09465793B2 |
Systems and methods for advanced grammar checking
In embodiments of the present invention improved capabilities are described for methods and systems of grammar checking comprising a grammar checking facility and a plurality of human proofreaders in a crowd-source population for the detection and correction of grammatical errors in text as received from a computing device, wherein possible detected errors are categorized as high confidence or low confidence possible errors, and the high confidence errors may be distributed to the human proofreaders according to ranking. |
| US09465791B2 |
Method and apparatus for automatic detection of spelling errors in one or more documents
Methods and apparatus are provided for automatically detecting spelling errors in one or more documents, such as documents being processed for the creation of a lexicon According to one aspect of the invention, a spelling error is detected in one or more documents by determining if at least one given word in the one or more documents satisfies a predefined misspelling criteria, wherein the predefined misspelling criteria comprises the at least one given word having a frequency below a predefined low threshold and the at least one given word being within a predefined edit distance of one or more other words in the one or more documents having a frequency above a predefined high threshold; and identifying a given word as a potentially misspelled word if the given word satisfies the predefined misspelling criteria. |
| US09465787B2 |
Electronic mathematical model builder
The present invention relates generally to the field of information processing by digital computers and, more particularly, to the entry and processing of information by application programs, particularly spreadsheets. The present invention is an electronic mathematical model builder that comprises a memory for storage of data, a processor for defining addressable sets of cells stored in the memory with a unique identifier, for entering data into the cells and for processing data stored in the cells, a user interface with a display for displaying sets of cells in a work area and means for creating and positioning sets of cells in the work area and inputting data to be entered into the cells, and a function builder for building mathematical relations between cells, comprising fields for user specification of a desired function by mathematical operators and input variables of the function, and set of destination cells containing values of the function. |
| US09465784B1 |
Method and system for enabling real-time, collaborative generation of documents having overlapping subject matter
A method and system is described that enable a plurality of co-authors to generate and edit work product to be incorporated into different documents customized to suit the interests of different audiences. A first user authors a text passage that pertains to a certain subject matter, intending to use this passage in a particular document. The passage is made available over a network to other users who may wish to include the text passage or a derivative thereof in another document being authored. A second user may link to the text passage to incorporate it into another document. When that occurs, changes that either the first user or a copy editor, as a third user, makes to the passage can be made simultaneously in the other document being generated by the other user. If instead, the second user wishes to edit the text passage, the link can be broken and a derivative text passage can be created for inclusion in that second user's document. |
| US09465779B2 |
Microblog-based document file sharing method and device
Embodiments of the present invention provide a microblog-based document file sharing method and device. The method comprises: converting a document file into an swf file; performing format confusion on the swf file; and publishing the swf file after the format confusion through a microblog platform. After the embodiments of the present invention are applied, information transmission and the audience size are expanded through sharing via microblog technologies. In addition, the format confusion is performed on the swf file, so that the possibility of directly obtaining the original of the document file through a link is eliminated, and therefore, the information security of the document is also enhanced. |
| US09465776B2 |
Filtering fonts based on a selection of glyphs
Techniques are disclosed for filtering a list of fonts based on the criteria that each font in the resulting filter supports every single glyph in an arbitrary array of glyphs. The array of glyphs may include one or more glyphs and can be, for example, user-defined (e.g., based on a user content selection within a given document, or entries made on a configuration page) and/or defined by a selected digital document or folder system (where only fonts that support all glyphs used within that entire document or folder system are listed). The techniques can be implemented, for instance, in digital content generation/editing systems that allow for a variety of different fonts and glyphs to be used. In any such cases, the system can be configured to allow for viewing a filtered font list, such that each and every glyph of interest is supported by each font presented in the list. |
| US09465774B2 |
Optical character recognition system using multiple images and method of use
Disclosed is an improved OCR system wherein the same can be utilized for capturing and analyzing multiple images of a document to increase the efficiency and accuracy of digitizing printed texts on the document. Captured images are merged into a single set of character recognition results via a recognition method from multiple images, which include early fusion, late fusion, and hybrid fusion embodiments. The end product from each of the embodiments provides text and metadata that include recognized words. In late and hybrid fusion, words having confidence scores above a predetermined threshold are assembled together to form paragraphs to reconstruct a digital version of the document. In this way, the present invention utilizes multiple images that can be combined to aggregate information and achieve high accuracy when scanning and digitizing printed texts. |
| US09465772B2 |
Calculating device, calculating system, and computer product
A calculating device selects an action and a corresponding state; acquires an evaluation value by evaluating the combination of the selected action and the selected state; identifies for each selected action, a lowest evaluation value among acquired evaluation values; determines the lowest evaluation value among evaluation values of all the states selected for each action as a minimax candidate, and determines, as a minimax, an evaluation value that is highest among the lowest evaluation values corresponding to the actions; each time an evaluation value is acquired for a combination of a state and an action after the minimax candidate is determined, compares the acquired evaluation value and the minimax candidate, and terminates selection of a state corresponding to the action when the evaluation value is lower than the minimax candidate and selects an unselected action from the action set; and outputs an action corresponding to the determined minimax. |
| US09465771B2 |
Server on a chip and node cards comprising one or more of same
A server on a chip that can be a component of a node card. The server on a chip can include a node central processing unit subsystem, a peripheral subsystem, a system interconnect subsystem, and a management subsystem. The central processing unit subsystem can include a plurality of processing cores each running an independent instance of an operating system. The peripheral subsystem includes a plurality of interfaces for various configurations of storage media. The system interconnect subsystem provides for intra-node and inter-node packet connectivity. The management subsystem provides for various system and power management functionalities within the subsystems of the server on a chip. |
| US09465764B2 |
Interface extension device compatible with USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 standards
An interface extension device includes a USB port, a USB hub and a first interface conversion circuit. The USB hub has a first port connected to the USB port. The first interface conversion circuit includes first and second USB hosts. The first USB host is connected to the USB hub and is connected to the USB port through the USB hub. The second host has a bus and is directly connected to the USB port without routing though any USB hub. |
| US09465763B2 |
Bridge circuitry for communications with dynamically reconfigurable circuits
A bridge circuit may be used to interface between dynamically reconfigurable circuitry and dedicated circuitry or other circuitry having static configurations during normal operation of the device. The bridge circuit may include interface circuitry coupled between first and second interfaces that communicate with the dynamically reconfigurable circuitry and the dedicated circuitry. Control circuitry may control the interface circuitry based on variable communications requirements of the second interface without interrupting communications with the dedicated circuitry at the first interface. The variable communications requirements may be dependent on which configuration of the dynamically reconfigurable circuitry is currently implemented. |
| US09465759B2 |
Universal serializer architecture
Systems and methods for a universal Serializer-Deserializer (SerDes) architecture are described. In various implementations, a transceiver may include: a first plurality of data flip-flops coupled to a data lookup circuit of a SerDes interface; a second plurality of data flip-flops coupled to the data lookup circuit; a plurality of latches, each latch of the plurality of latches coupled to a corresponding data flip-flop of the second plurality of data flip-flops; and a plurality of multiplexers coupled to the plurality of latches, to the first plurality of data flip-flops, and to a transmitter circuit. |
| US09465758B2 |
Reconfigurable instruction cell array with conditional channel routing and in-place functionality
A reconfigurable instruction cell array is disclosed that includes an array of switch boxes. Each switch box within the array includes a set of I/O ports that are configured to receive a plurality of input channels from neighboring switch boxes in the array. Within a switch box, one of the I/O ports conditionally selects from the input channels received by the remaining I/O ports in the switch box to form a plurality of output channels to be driven to a neighboring switch box in the array. |
| US09465757B2 |
Memory device with relaxed timing parameter according to temperature, operating method thereof, and memory controller and memory system using the memory device
A memory device used with a relaxed timing requirement specification according to temperatures, an operation method thereof, and a memory controller and a memory system using the memory device are provided. The memory device has a first timing characteristic at a first temperature and a second timing characteristic that is longer than the first timing characteristic at a second temperature. If a temperature of the memory device is higher than a reference temperature, the memory controller controls the first timing characteristic as a timing requirement specification of the memory device. If the temperature of the memory device is lower than the reference temperature, the memory controller controls the second timing characteristic as the timing requirement specification of the memory device. |
| US09465750B2 |
Memory protection circuit, method and processing unit utilizing memory access information register to selectively allow access to memory areas by virtual machines
A memory protection circuit includes a memory access information register that stores memory access information related to memory areas which can be accessed by respective virtual machines, and an access determination circuit that determines whether to allow the virtual machines to access the memory areas based on a memory address when each of the virtual machines accesses a memory, information related to the virtual machines that access the memory, and the memory access information stored in the memory access information register. The memory access information register may comprise memory area setting registers and memory area allocation registers. A register access information register may indicate register areas which can be accessed by the virtual machines. A virtual machine scheduler or thread scheduler may determine an order of instructions to be executed. |
| US09465748B2 |
Instruction fetch translation lookaside buffer management to support host and guest O/S translations
A translation lookaside buffer (TLB) configured for use in a multiple operating system environment includes a plurality of storage locations, each storage location being configured to store a page translation entry configured to relate a virtual address range to a physical address range, each page translation entry having an address space identifier (ASID) associated with an operating system. The TLB also includes flush logic configured to receive a TLB flush request from an operating system having an operating system ASID and flush only TLB page translation entries having a stored ASID that matches the operating system ASID. |
| US09465746B2 |
Diagnostics for transactional execution errors in reliable transactions
Gathering diagnostics during a transactional execution in a transactional memory environment, a transactional memory environment for performing transactional executions is provided. Included is identifying a first indicator, by a computer system, signaling a beginning instruction of a transaction comprising a plurality of instructions; generating, by the computer system, a computed digest based on the execution of at least one of the plurality of instructions; accumulating, by the computer system, a diagnostic data of the transaction based on the execution of the plurality of instructions; identifying, by the computer system, a second indicator associated with the plurality of instructions signaling an ending instruction of the transaction comprising the plurality of instructions; and based on an abort of the transaction, not saving the memory store data of the transaction to memory. |
| US09465745B2 |
Managing access commands by multiple level caching
Apparatus and associated method concerning managing access commands with a main storage space, a volatile buffer, and a nonvolatile buffer. The volatile buffer is configured to store a plurality of command nodes that are associated with data access commands received from a remote device and directed to the main storage space. The apparatus also has command prioritizing logic configured for using a prescribed rule in repeatedly identifying two or more candidate command nodes of the plurality that are at least individually favored for execution with respect to the main storage space, for selecting one of the candidate command nodes for the execution, and for transferring a nonselected one of the candidate command nodes from the volatile buffer to the nonvolatile buffer where the nonselected command node continues to be considered for execution with respect to the main storage space but is no longer considered by the prescribed rule when identifying subsequent candidate command nodes in the volatile buffer. |
| US09465738B2 |
Information processing system, control method, program, and recording medium
An information processing system that determines whether static data is already loaded into shared memory when a request is made to load static data into shared memory from a process out of a plurality of processes. When the information processing system determines that static data is not loaded into shared memory, after loading the data into shared memory, it notifies the requesting process with information identifying the static data. When the information processing system determines that the static data is already loaded into shared memory, it notifies the requesting process with information identifying the static data. |
| US09465736B2 |
Verification of management of real storage via multi-threaded thrashers in multiple address spaces
A method, system, and computer program product to verify management of real storage via multi-threaded thrashers in multiple address spaces are described. The method includes dynamically scaling a number of units of work and a number of address spaces based on a number of available processors and dynamically scaling an amount and page size of storage pages representing virtual storage accessed by each of the number of units of work based on a total available memory. The method also includes obtaining, at each of the units of work, different types of storage frame sizes and attributes, accessing the storage pages corresponding with the respective different types of storage frame sizes and attributes and performing a respective function, and verifying, for each of the units of work performing the respective function, a location of the storage pages and content of the storage pages based on the respective function. |
| US09465732B2 |
Binning of blocks for dynamic linking
A multi-plane non-volatile memory die includes circuits that receive and apply different parameters to different planes while accessing planes in parallel so that different erase blocks are accessed using individualized parameters. Programming parameters, and read parameters can be modified on a block-by-block basis with modification based on the number of write-erase cycles or other factors. |
| US09465727B2 |
Memory system, method for controlling the same, and information processing device
A memory system method for controlling the same, and an information processing device using the same are provided. The system includes a plurality of memory chips electrically connected with one another by a bus (e.g. address bus, data bus, control bus, etc.), which are disposed in a stacked arrangement and extend through the plurality of memory chips in a stacking direction, and a memory controller connected to a plurality of processors and to the bus, and further to a chip select signal line for outputting a chip select signal to each of the plurality of memory chips. The memory controller converts an address signal from each of the processors into a set of the chip select signal and the address signal, which is outputted to the address bus, so as to relay inputs and outputs of data between each of the processors and each of the memory chips. |
| US09465725B2 |
Software defect reporting
Provided are approaches for software defect reporting. Specifically, one approach provides identifying a software defect; generating a software defect report, wherein the software defect report is generated in real-time as the software defect is identified during testing of the test case, wherein the software defect report is submitted by a testing entity to a software developer responsible for creating a software product having the software defect, and wherein the defect report contains information to identify the location of the software defect in the application code of the software product; determining if the software defect report information is complete; and if the software defect report information is not complete, the updating the defect report information, determining if the software defect is reproducible, and recreating the software defect in the case that the software defect is reproducible. |
| US09465721B2 |
Snapshotting executing code with a modifiable snapshot definition
A tracing and debugging system may take a snapshot of an application in response to an event, and may continue executing the program after the snapshot is captured. The snapshot may be stored and retrieved later in a debugging tool where a programmer may browse the snapshot or the snapshot may have some other analysis performed. The snapshot may contain a subset of the state of the application, such as call stacks, portions of source code, the values of local and global variables, and various metadata. The snapshot may be defined in a snapshot configuration that may include an event description and data to be collected. |
| US09465720B2 |
Methods and systems for internally debugging code in an on-demand service environment
A remote debug session for a server group is provided. A server group including multiple servers that perform workload sharing receives a request to debug code executed at the server group. The code is executed on behalf of a client of a database associated with the server group. One of the servers of the group initiates a debugging session and establishes a communication connection with the client. The one server maintains the connection open with the client for the duration of the debugging session. Subsequent requests related to the debug session can be handled in a number of ways by the server group, and all communication to the client about processing the requests is through the connection by the one server. |
| US09465718B2 |
Filter generation for load testing managed environments
Automatic filter generation is used in a script for load testing a client application in a client/server managed environment. Filters are generated by recording managed libraries used in the client application and recording a flow of executable instructions of the client application. The recorded data is analyzed to identify classes that generate client/server communication. The filters are created with the identified classes that generate client/server communication. |
| US09465713B2 |
Monitoring data analyzing apparatus, monitoring data analyzing method, and monitoring data analyzing program
An object of the present invention is to improve prediction accuracy for a performance value of a monitoring target system even if the performance value is substantially different for each of patterns of use. A monitoring data analyzing apparatus includes a regression-model recalculating section 14 configured to combine regression models, which are generated for each of a plurality of groups into which log data including monitoring data in a monitoring target system set as a target of performance management is classified, using the log data belonging to the groups corresponding to the regression models and test target log data, which is the log data set as a target of a performance test, to recalculate the regression models. |
| US09465712B2 |
Assessment of a high performance computing application in relation to network latency due to the chosen interconnects
A method and computer program product for testing a high performance computing application performing a computation within a clustered computer arrangement is disclosed. The high performance computing arrangement performances computations across processors in parallel wherein the processors cooperate to perform the computation. The application can be tested by adding delay and therefore latency to one or more commands inside of the precompiled application. The addition of delay can be used to simulate the performance of different interconnects that are used within the high performance computing arrangement. |
| US09465704B2 |
VM availability during management and VM network failures in host computing systems
Techniques for virtual machine (VM) availability during management network failure and VM network failure in a first host computing system in a failover cluster are described. In one example embodiment, management network failure is identified in the first host computing system. The management network being coupled to a virtual management software in a management server and used for management functions. Migration of the VMs running on the first host computing system is then initiated to at least one other host computing system in the failover cluster via a migration network by a failover agent associated with the first host computing system. The migration network being isolated from the virtual management software and capable of handling live migrations. |
| US09465702B2 |
System and method for auditing removal of customer personal information on electronic devices
A system and method for auditing electronic devices to verify removal of customer personal information (CPI). An electronic device is received at a facility. An electronic device is tested utilizing a test device to determine whether there is CPI on the electronic device. An identification of the electronic device is recorded in response to determining the CPI is on the electronic device. An alert associated with the identification is stored to indicate that CPI is on the electronic device. |
| US09465701B2 |
Relay device and recovery method
A relay device for dividing a storage device into a plurality of unit areas, assigning an unused unit area from among the plurality of unit areas to received channel-specified data, and performing at least one of adjustment of a transmission timing of the data and conversion of the data by using the assigned unit area, is disclosed. The relay device includes an error detector configured to detect an error where the unit area from which the data is to be read is not specified; and an error control configured to recognize a channel of data stored in the unit area that is not specified due to the error detected by the error detector as a target channel, and to invalidate an assignment of the unit area to the recognized target channel. |
| US09465700B2 |
System and method for kernel rootkit protection in a hypervisor environment
A system and method in one embodiment includes modules for creating a soft whitelist having entries corresponding to each guest kernel page in a guest operating system in a hypervisor environment, generating a page fault when an access attempt is made to a guest kernel page, fixing the page fault to allow access and execution if the guest kernel page corresponds to one of the entries in the soft whitelist, and denying execution if the guest kernel page does not correspond to any of the entries in the soft whitelist. If the page fault is an instruction page fault, and the guest kernel page corresponds to one of the entries in the soft whitelist, the method includes marking the guest kernel page as read-only and executable. The soft whitelist includes a hash of machine page frame numbers corresponding to virtual addresses of each guest kernel page. |
| US09465699B2 |
Method and system for data backup
The present invention relates to a method, system, and computer program product for data backup, the method comprising: performing first chunking on current data by using the same chunking method as that used by original backup data to obtain a current chunk; calculating hash value of the current chunk; and acquiring, from a hash value table of the original backup data, an identifier of a matched chunk whose hash value is the same as the calculated hash value of the current chunk, and incrementing number of continuous matched chunks by one. Since the pertinence between original backup data and current data is maximally utilized, performance of de-duplication method can be efficiently improved. |
| US09465696B2 |
Methods and apparatus for multi-phase multi-source backup
Methods and apparatus that identify a change of resources in a device to a first backup source are described. In response to receiving a token from the first backup source for authorization to a second backup source, the change of resources can be backed up to the second backup source with the token. The change of resources can be committed to the first backup source if the back up of the change to the second backup source is successful. |
| US09465695B2 |
Efficient backup replication
A system for backup replication comprises a processor and a memory. The processor is configured to determine data present in a most recent backup not present in a previous backup; transmit an extent specification; and transmit data segment fingerprints of the one or more data segments. The memory is coupled to the processor and is configured to provide the processor with instructions. |
| US09465691B2 |
Read request processing apparatus
A wrapping burst read determination unit determines whether or not a read request is a request of a wrapping read. If the read request is the request of the wrapping read, a memory address conversion unit extracts a plurality of addresses that includes an address in which payload data requested by the read request is stored, and designates a read out order of data from the plurality of addresses extracted. If the read request is the request of the wrapping read, a first data holding unit inputs first data read out from an address to which a forefront position in the read out order has been designated among the plurality of addresses, and stores the first data. If the read request is the request of the wrapping read, a data alignment unit, inputs trailing data read out from an address to which an end position in the read out order has been designated, and extracts payload data and an ECC which are correlated with each other from the first data and the trailing data. |
| US09465686B2 |
Detecting uninitialized memory references
A pre-initialized value of contents of a memory location is identified. A load value of contents loaded from the memory location by execution of a first instruction that loads from the memory location is also identified. A comparison is made between the load value and the pre-initialized value. Based on the comparison, a determination is made that the load value and the pre-initialized value are the same. In response to this determination, it is indicated that the first instruction contains an uninitialized memory reference. |
| US09465685B2 |
Identifying solutions to application execution problems in distributed computing environments
An expert system extracts events associated with executing an application from log files generated by various topological resources in a distributed computing environment. The events are plotted as plot points on a time series graph. Patterns are identified in the plot points that are associated with application problems, along with the computing environment configurations both before the problem and after the problem was resolved. The difference in the configurations represents a corrective action for the application problem, and the expert system links the corrective action to the pattern. When a pattern repeats in conjunction with another application problem, the corrective action is identified as a possible solution to the new problem. A confidence level associated with the pattern/corrective action may be increased when a user accepts the corrective action and may be decreased when a user rejects the corrective action. |
| US09465681B2 |
Coalescing stages in a multiple stage completion sequence
Embodiments are directed to systems and methodologies for allowing a computer program code to efficiently respond to and process events. For events having a multiple stage completion sequence, and wherein several of the events occur within relatively close time proximity to each other, portions of the multiple stages may be coalesced without adding latency, thereby maintaining responsiveness of the computer program. The disclosed coalescing systems and methodologies include state machines and counters that in effect “replace” certain stages of the event sequence when the frequency of events increases. |
| US09465673B2 |
Deferral instruction for managing transactional aborts in transactional memory computing environments to complete transaction by deferring disruptive events handling
A deferral instruction associated with a transaction is executed in a transaction execution computing environment with transactional memory. Based on executing the deferral instruction, a processor sets a defer-state indicating that pending disruptive events such as interrupts or conflicting memory accesses are to be deferred. A pending disruptive event is deferred based on the set defer-state, and the transaction is completed based on the disruptive event being deferred. The progress of the transaction may be monitored during a deferral period. The length of such deferral period may be specified by the deferral instruction. Whether the deferral period has expired may be determined based on the monitored progress of the transaction. If the deferral period has expired, the transaction may be aborted and the disruptive event may be processed. |
| US09465665B1 |
System and method for controlled sharing of consumable resources in a computer cluster
In one embodiment, a method includes empirically analyzing a set of active reservations and a current set of consumable resources belonging to a class of consumable resources. Each active reservation is of a managed task type and includes a group of one or more tasks requiring access to a consumable resource of the class. The method further includes, based on the empirically analyzing, clocking the set of active reservations each clocking cycle. In addition, the method includes, responsive to the clocking, sorting a priority queue of the set of active reservations. |
| US09465660B2 |
Performing a task in a system having different types of hardware resources
Different types of hardware processing resources in a system are identified (102). In response to a request to perform a task, a respective one of the different types of hardware processing resources is selected (104) to perform the task. |
| US09465658B1 |
Task distribution over a heterogeneous environment through task and consumer categories
Task distribution over a heterogeneous system is provided using task and consumer categories. A task category can be created for a task based on task attributes of the task. An entry in a data store can be identified by the task category. If an entry matching the task category is found, a task description can be stored in the matching entry. If an entry matching the task category is not found, a new entry in the data store can be created for the task category and the task description can be stored in the new entry. In addition, a consumer device can request a task description by a consumer category that is based on consumer attributes of the consumer device. If an entry matching the consumer category exists in the data store, a task description in the matching entry can be sent to the consumer device. |
| US09465657B2 |
Entitlement vector for library usage in managing resource allocation and scheduling based on usage and priority
An entitlement vector may be used when selecting a thread for execution in a multi-threading environment in terms of aspects such as priority. An embodiment or embodiments of an information handling apparatus can comprise a library comprising a plurality of functions operable to handle a plurality of objects. The information handling apparatus can further comprise an entitlement vector operable to assign entitlement to at least one of a plurality of resources to selected ones of the plurality of functions. |
| US09465655B2 |
Method for managing threads using executing time scheduling technique and electronic device using the same method
A method for managing threads and an electronic device using the method are provided. In the method, a current time is obtained. A time interval from now to a time for the processor to wake up next time is calculated. The processor is released until reaching the end of the time interval. When the end of the time interval is reached or a first notice signal of the processor is received, a first newest time is obtained to update a current time, and the current time is logged as a basis time. It is respectively checked whether the current time satisfies a plurality of predetermined time conditions of the registered threads against a plurality of registered threads in the threads. When the current time satisfies the predetermined time condition of a first registered thread among the registered threads, the first registered thread is waked up. |
| US09465652B1 |
Hardware-based mechanisms for updating computer systems
Techniques for using hardware-based mechanisms for updating computing resources are described herein. At a time after receiving a code update request, one or more hardware-supported system management capabilities of processors within a computing system are invoked at least to interrupt execution of currently running instructions. While the system management capabilities are active and instruction execution is suspended, programmatic routines are updated. After the updates are complete, instruction execution is resumed. |
| US09465649B2 |
Executing distributed globally-ordered transactional workloads in replicated state machines
A method of transaction replication includes transmitting at least one transaction received during an epoch from a local node to remote nodes of a domain of 2N+1 nodes at the end of an epoch (N is an integer greater than or equal to 1). The remote nodes log receipt of the at least one transaction, notify the local node of the receipt of the at least one transaction, transmit the at least one transaction to all of the 2N+1 nodes, and add the at least one transaction to an execution order upon receiving at least N+1 copies of the at least one transaction. |
| US09465644B2 |
Selection of virtual machines from pools of pre-provisioned virtual machines in a networked computing environment
Embodiments of the present invention provide a set of algorithmic methods that can be used to select which partially and/or pre-provisioned virtual machines (VMs) should be used as a base platform to satisfy a new workload (e.g., provisioning) request received in a networked computing environment (e.g., a cloud computing environment). Specifically, when a workload request is received, a set (e.g., at last one) of software programs needed to process the workload request is identified. Then, a set of VMs is selected from a pool of pre-provisioned VMs having the set of software programs. In general, multiple methods and/or factors can be followed to select the set of VMs. Examples include a length of time to install the set of VMs, a probability of the set of VMs being in demand, and/or or a quantity of the set of VMs having the set of software programs. Once the set of VMs has been selected, the set of VMs may be installed, and the workload request can be processed using the set of software programs. |
| US09465640B2 |
Information processing apparatus and method of controlling information processing apparatus
An information processing apparatus includes: a VM including a driver that is configured to perform data input/output using an input/output device; a hypervisor configured to manage the VM and perform a synchronization process between the information processing apparatus and another information processing apparatus which form a pair; a monitoring unit configured to monitor an access made between a memory and the input/output device; a notification unit configured to notify the hypervisor of detection of a reading access in a case where the reading access relating to data output from the memory to the input/output device is detected by the monitoring unit; and a suppression unit configured to suppress the data output in a case where the hypervisor is in the middle of execution of the synchronization process when the hypervisor receives the notification from the notification unit. Accordingly, the input/output access performance of the VM is improved. |
| US09465637B2 |
System and method for automating virtual network provisioning
A method includes receiving a deployment template at a host system, partitioning a networking device of the host system with a virtual network partition based upon the deployment template, receiving attribute data that includes a first attribute associated with the first virtual network partition, loading the networking device with the attribute data, launching a virtual machine manager on the host system, reading the attribute from the networking device, and assigning a virtual network interface of a virtual switch associated with the virtual machine manager to the virtual network partition in response to reading the attribute. |
| US09465635B2 |
System and method for managing a virtualized computing environment
A technique for predictive distributed resource scheduling and distributed power management includes analyzing patterns in the workload, predicting future workloads, and making recommendations for changes to the virtual computing environment. In addition, a cost-benefit analysis can be performed to determine whether the recommended change would likely result in improved performance. |
| US09465628B2 |
Electronic device
An electronic device includes a processor coupled with at least two loaded media. The electronic device can work at a first working mode and a second working mode. When the electronic device works at the first working module, the processor selects one loaded media and controls the selected loaded media to execute a function according to a first manual operation received by an inputting unit of the electronic device. When the electronic device works at the second working module, the processor controls each of the at least two loaded media to execute a common function according to a second manual operation received by the inputting unit. |
| US09465627B2 |
Binding-based characterization of closures in software programs
The disclosed embodiments provide a system that facilitates the compilation and execution of a software program. During operation, the system obtains a closure from source code for the software program. Next, the system characterizes a type of the closure based on a mutability of one or more variables captured by the closure. Finally, the system encodes the type into a compiled form of the closure to facilitate subsequent execution of the closure in a multithreaded environment. |
| US09465626B2 |
Method and apparatus for acquiring time spent on system shutdown
A method for determining time spent on system shutdown is provided. The method may involve identifying a time at which a shutdown instruction is initiated during the system shutdown. Further, an exit time of an object that is the last to exit during the system shutdown may be identified. The time spent on the system shutdown may be determined based on the time at which the shutdown instruction is initiated and the exit time of the object that is the last to exit. The method for determining time spent on system shutdown may obtain the system time spent on the previous system shutdown regardless of the reason that the system was shut down. Further, the user may be instructed to optimize the system according to the time spent on system shutdown. |
| US09465625B2 |
Provisioning of operating environments on a server in a networked environment
A computer deploys an operating environment onto a provisionable server. The computer assigns an operating environment from an operating environment configuration management database to the provisionable server in response to detecting a provisioning event. The computer stores a record of the assignment in a deployment configuration management database and updates a management server with a designated operating environment identifier of the assignment. |
| US09465623B2 |
Offloading the processing of a network protocol stack
A computer system is partitioned during a pre-boot phase of the computer system between a first partition and a second partition, wherein the first partition to include a first processing unit and the second partition to include a second processing unit. An Input/Output (I/O) operating system is booted on the first partition. A general purpose operating system is booted on the second partition. Network transactions are issued by the general purpose operating system to be performed by the I/O operating system. The network transactions are performed by the I/O operating system. |
| US09465619B1 |
Systems and methods for shared pipeline architectures having minimalized delay
Systems and methods are provided for a multi-core processor for processing different types of data units. A system includes a classifier configured to classify incoming data units into different type data units. A plurality of processing cores are selectably configurable into plural processing pipelines, respective processing pipelines including connected processing cores, ones of the processing cores being selectably programmed to execute a respective processing operation on a received incoming data unit, different ones of the processing pipelines defined by a selectable number of processing cores. A distributor is configured to distribute the different types of data units to one of the pipelines among the plural pipelines at least as a function of the classified type of the data units and the programmed processing operations of processing cores in the pipelines. |
| US09465618B2 |
Methods and systems for optimally selecting an assist unit
Methods, apparatuses, and systems that allow a microprocessor to optimally select an assist unit (co-processor) to reduce completion times for completing processing requests to execute functions. The methods, apparatuses, and systems include assist unit hardware, assist unit management software, or a combination of the two to optimally select the assist unit for completing a specific processing request. In optimally selecting an assist unit, the methods, apparatuses, and systems calculate estimated times for completing the processing request with conventional means and with assist units. The times are then compared to determine the fastest time for completing a specific processing request. |
| US09465617B1 |
Implementing upcall from secure to non-secure mode by injecting exception into non-secure mode
A computer system that does not natively support non-maskable interrupts (NMIs) implements NMI-like functionality in a secure monitor. The computer system detects a high priority interrupt and determines whether or not interrupts are enabled or disabled. If interrupts are enabled, the computer system injects an exception into a currently executing thread of system software operating at the second privilege level, and an exception handler processes the exception like a standard exception. If interrupts are disabled, the computer system saves the current system state (e.g., the current program counter and CPU state) and values of one or more exception handling registers in temporary storage and injects an exception into the currently executing thread of the system software, and the exception handler processes the exception in a special manner. |
| US09465615B2 |
Method and apparatus for branch prediction
A branch prediction unit BPU (500) for prediction of a next taken branch instruction in a processing unit (100). The BPU (500) comprises a pattern history memory (504) comprising branch source addresses and branch indicators; a branch target buffer (506) comprising branch targets; and branch prediction logical circuit (502). By means of a search PC, the circuit finds in the memory a branch indicator indicating a predicted taken branch instruction. The circuit selects a first found branch indicator as an indication of a first predicted taken branch instruction. Using the first found branch indicator, the circuit retrieves from the memory, a branch source address of the first predicted taken branch instruction. When the retrieved branch source address is the branch source address nearest to the search PC, the circuit outputs as next PC a branch target retrieved from the buffer. Then the prediction stops. |
| US09465608B2 |
Code separation with semantic guarantees
Techniques to perform code separation with semantic guarantees are described. When porting a software application to a different target architecture and potentially to a different set of platforms and programming languages, application functionality will change based at least to accommodate architectural differences. However, business logic should be guaranteed to be semantically preserved, efficiency optimized to the platform benefits and limitations. Code separation identifies candidate components, associates the candidate components with a component classification or type, and automates the determining of which of the candidate components are to be associated with various portions of the target architecture. Automated code separation may include various inference algorithms to determine which components are to be associated with a component type. Also described are various use cases for code separation. |
| US09465606B2 |
Forecasting of reusable software assets
Systems and methods for forecasting reusable software assets are described. In one embodiment, the method comprises receiving a forecast comprising forecast information pertaining to at least one forecasted software asset. Further, the method comprises mapping the forecast to a domain map based on the forecast information, wherein the domain map includes a plurality of domain constituents. Based in part on the mapping, a development request for creation of the at least one forecasted software asset is generated. |
| US09465601B2 |
Pluggable activation engine extensions via virtual disks
A computer-implemented method, system and/or computer program product configure an extended virtual machine. A virtual image is executed to initialize a virtual machine. An activation engine is activated to search for special extensions in the virtual image. The virtual machine scans at least one virtual disk for script to implement the special extensions as virtual machine extensions, such that the virtual machine reads and executes the extensions prior to being available for use. |
| US09465597B2 |
System for operating a device as a storage device and a modem device
A device is disclosed herein. In one embodiment; the device includes: a wireless transceiver; an interface for connecting with a terminal running one of the first and second operating systems; memory storing the driver software for installation on the terminal if running the second operating system; and processing apparatus operable to output a first definition of a configuration of the device and a second definition of a configuration of the device; wherein the first definition defines configuration of the device as a storage device for providing the driver software to the terminal; and on condition that the terminal is running the first version of the first operating system, the second definition defines configuration of the device as a modem. |
| US09465593B2 |
Method and apparatus for testing browser compatibility
A method and an apparatus for testing browser compatibility are provided. The method may include pre-processing source code of a webpage to determine a code type. A compatibility rule library may be obtained according to the code type. Further, a syntax parsing may be conducted on the source code to obtain a syntax tree of the source code. The browser compatibility of the webpage may be tested by conducting a static analysis of the source code based on the compatibility rule library and the syntax tree. The disclosed method and apparatus for testing browser compatibility can automatically conduct static analysis of the webpage source code to test browser compatibility, which is simple and inexpensive. |
| US09465584B2 |
Method for generating random number, memory storage device and control circuit
A method for generating a random number, a memory storage device and a control circuit are provided. The method includes: writing data into a plurality of memory cells; reading at least one of the memory cells repeatedly according to a first read voltage to obtain a plurality of sensing currents; and generating the random number according to the sensing currents. |
| US09465582B1 |
Significant random number generator
A system, method, and apparatus for a significant random number generator are disclosed. The method involves sensing, with a sensor on a spacecraft, a physical phenomenon. In one or more embodiments, the system utilizes a Lower Earth Orbiting (LEO) Iridium satellite for the spacecraft. The method further involves outputting, from the sensor, a value for the physical phenomenon. Also, the method involves inputting the value of the physical phenomenon into a pseudo-random number generator (PRNG). In addition, the method involves generating, with the PRNG, a sequence of random numbers using the value of the physical phenomenon as a seed for the PRNG. In some embodiments, the disclosed significant random number generator is employed by a spot beam based authentication system that is used to authenticate a claimant. In other embodiments, the disclosed significant random number generator is used for cryptology, routing network traffic, anti-jamming, certified time stamping, and secure identification applications. |
| US09465577B1 |
Method and apparatus for processing data based on touch events on a touch sensitive device
A touch sensitive device is configured to determine commands based on a plurality of touch events on the touch sensitive device. At least a first predetermined number of touch events is detected on the touch sensitive device. At least a second predetermined number of control points is determined based on the detected at least first predetermined number of touch events. A command is determined based on a change in value of at least one parameter related to at least two of the control points. A first data object and a second data object are processed based on a preselected common attribute tag using the determined command. |
| US09465575B2 |
FFMA operations using a multi-step approach to data shifting
A fused floating-point multiply-add element includes a multiplier that generates a product, and a shifter that shifts an addend within a narrow range. Interpreting logic analyzes the magnitude of the addend relative to the product and then causes logic arrays to position the shifted addend within the left, center, or right portions of a composite register depending in the magnitude of the addend relative to the product. The interpreting logic also forces other portions of the composite register to zero. When the addend is zero, the interpreting logic forces all portions of the composite register to zero. Final combining logic then adds the contents of the composite register to the product. |
| US09465571B2 |
Apparatus, method, and non-transitory computer-readable storage medium
This invention provides an apparatus use environment with higher flexibility and convenience. To achieve this, based on information acquired by an apparatus on which a program including a first program layer with an instruction set to be interpreted and executed by a processor and a second program layer with an instruction set compiled in advance by a unit other than the processor operates, display contents of a display screen for using a function of the apparatus, which are displayed in the first program layer, are controlled. |
| US09465569B2 |
Cloud print method using automatic response system and cloud print system for performing the same
Provided is a cloud print method using an automatic response system, the cloud print method including: receiving a call, by the automatic response system, from a user terminal; providing the user terminal, by the automatic response system, with an automatic response voice guidance message regarding a printable document via the automatic response system; selecting, by the automatic response system, a document to be printed via the user terminal; identifying, by the automatic response system, a destination phone number to which the selected document is to be transmitted; transmitting, by the automatic response system, the selected document and destination phone number from the automatic response system to a cloud print server; and transmitting, by the cloud printer server, the selected document from the cloud print server to an image forming apparatus corresponding to the destination phone number. |
| US09465563B2 |
Method for defect detection in a printing system and printing system
The present invention provides an apparatus (20) for defect detection in a printing system (1). The apparatus (20) comprises: a sensing unit (21) having at least one first sensor device (22) for sensing a surface geometry or topology of a sheet (S) to be printed as the sheet (S) travels on a transport path (P) of the printing system (1) and for generating data (I) representative of that surface geometry or topology; and a processor device (25) for processing the data (I) from the first sensor device (22) to detect and classify deformations (D) in the surface geometry or topology of the sheet (S) based on at least one predetermined criterion, wherein the at least one predetermined criterion is adjustable or variable to suit operating conditions in the printing system (1). Further, the invention provides a corresponding method of detecting defects in a printing system (1). |
| US09465562B2 |
Information processing device, information processing system, control method, and storage medium
A cooperation server executes printing processing of a document from an MFP through a printing server based on matter information including a printing instruction for the document received from a matter management server. The cooperation server notifies the client PC of the printing order that includes the printing ID and access information used for registering the costs related to the printing after completion of printing, provides a registering screen for costs related to printing by reason of the access from the client PC, and registers the costs registering information received from the client PC on the matter management server. |
| US09465556B2 |
RAID 0 disk array system and data processing method for dividing reading command to reading command segments and transmitting reading command segments to disks or directly transmitting reading command to one of disks without dividing
A disk array system and a data processing method are provided. The data processing method is applied to the disk array system. The disk array system is a redundancy array of independent disk 0 (RAID 0) system. The disk array system includes a plurality of disks. The data processing method includes: receiving a reading command; determining whether to divide the reading command to a plurality of reading command segments according to the reading command; and assigning the reading command to a corresponding disk of the disks to read data stored in the corresponding disk accordingly when it is determined that the reading command is not divided. |
| US09465554B2 |
Tiered caching and migration in differing granularities
For data processing in a distributed computing storage environment by a processor device, the distributed computing environment incorporating at least high-speed and lower-speed caches, and managed tiered levels of storage, groups of data segments and clumped hot ones of the data segments are migrated between the tiered levels of storage such that uniformly hot ones of the groups of data segments are migrated to use a Solid State Drive (SSD) portion of the tiered levels of storage; uniformly hot groups of data segments are determined using a first, heat map for a selected one of the group of the data segments; and a second heat map is used to determine the clumped hot groups. |
| US09465548B1 |
Methods and systems using model based techniques for determining performance capacity of a resource of a networked storage environment
Methods and systems for managing resources in a networked storage environment are provided. One method includes using a queuing model for a resource that processes a plurality of requests at a networked storage environment for predicting a relationship between latency and utilization of the resource. The queueing model uses inter-arrival time and service time to determine latency, where inter-arrival time is a duration that tracks when requests arrive at the resource and the service time tracks a duration for servicing the requests by the resource. The method further includes identifying optimum utilization of the resource using the predicted relationship between latency and utilization, where the optimum utilization is an indicator of resource utilization beyond which throughput gains for a workload is smaller than increase in latency; and determining available performance capacity for the resource using the optimum utilization and actual utilization of the resource. |
| US09465543B2 |
Fine-grained data reorganization in tiered storage architectures
A method for organizing data at levels of granularity larger or smaller than an extent is disclosed. The method initially closes a dataset on a host system. The host system includes a mapping table storing a logical address of the dataset. When the dataset is closed, the host system generates a message indicating that the dataset has been closed and sends the message to a storage system storing the dataset. In response, the storage system allocates a new logical address and copies the dataset from the existing logical address to the new logical address to improve data placement. The storage system then returns the new logical address to the host system so that the host system can update its mapping table. A corresponding system and computer program product are also disclosed. |
| US09465538B2 |
Flash memory control chip and data storage device and flash memory control method
A flash memory control method, storing a logical-to-physical address mapping relationship between a host and a flash memory and a root table in the flash memory and providing a non-volatile storage area storing a root table pointer. A mapping relationship pointer is set forth in the root table to show where the logical-to-physical address mapping relationship is stored in the flash memory. The root table pointer points to the root table stored in the flash memory. In response to a power restoration request issued from the host, the flash memory is accessed based on the root table pointer and thereby the root table is read and the logical-to-physical address mapping relationship is retrieved from the flash memory based on the mapping relationship pointer set forth in the root table. |
| US09465537B2 |
Memory system and method of controlling memory system
According to one embodiment, a memory system includes a nonvolatile memory including a plurality of blocks, and a controller controlling the nonvolatile memory. The controller cyclically executes patrol read, the patrol read including reading data and testing the read data, the read data being data of pages connected to some of word lines in each of the blocks of the nonvolatile memory. |
| US09465536B2 |
Input methods for device having multi-language environment
Text input is corrected on a touch-sensitive display by presenting a list of candidate words in the interface which can be selected by touch input. The candidate list can include candidate words having two or more character types (e.g., Roman, kana, kanji). In one aspect, the candidate list can be scrolled using a finger gesture. When a user's finger traverses a candidate word and the touch is released, the candidate word is inserted into a document being edited. In another aspect, characters can be erased by touching a key (e.g., a backspace or delete key) and making a sliding, swiping, or other finger gesture. A number of characters proportional to a distance (e.g., a linear distance) of the finger gesture across the display are erased. If there are characters in a text input area, those characters are erased first, followed by characters in the document being edited. |
| US09465535B2 |
Method for operating virtual adjusting button
A method for operating a virtual adjusting button is provided. A virtual adjusting button is displayed. The virtual adjusting button is operated by an operating point of an operating unit for adjusting a setting value correspondingly. A movement of the operating point is detected when the operating point is located on the virtual adjusting button and the virtual adjusting button is selected. A dynamic virtual adjusting button corresponding to the virtual adjusting button is displayed with the movement of the operating point when detecting that the operating point moves toward a direction away from or close to a reference point of the virtual adjusting button. A displaying size of the dynamic virtual adjusting button is changed correspondingly with a change of a distance between the operating point and the reference point. A precision of the setting value for adjusting is changed by operating the dynamic virtual adjusting button. |
| US09465531B2 |
Information processing apparatus, display control method, and display control program for changing shape of cursor during dragging operation
An information processing apparatus includes: an operation unit; and a control unit performing a process corresponding to dragging and displaying, on a display unit, a cursor which elongates from a start point of the dragging to an end point of the dragging and of which at least one of a size and a shape is different at one end portion, which is on a side of the start point of the dragging, and at the other end portion, which is on a side of the end point of the dragging, when the dragging is executed through the operation unit. |
| US09465524B2 |
Control apparatus and method for sharing information in a collaborative workspace
A method and system of controlling display of information from a plurality of video sources on at least one presentation space, the method comprising the steps of providing at least first and second selectable control interfaces, each interface including a separately selectable control associated with the at least one common display screen presentation space and a selectable off control, uniquely associating video sources with the control interfaces, for each control interface (i) receiving an indication each time the selectable control is selected and receiving an indication each time the selectable off control is selected, (ii) upon receiving an indication that the selectable control has been selected, providing the video source associated with the control interface to the presentation space; and (iii) upon receiving an indication that the selectable off control has been selected, cutting off the video source from the presentation space. |
| US09465523B2 |
Visual exploration of multidimensional data
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide systems and methods for displaying multidimensional data in a decomposition tree. The decomposition tree may include a plurality of levels, with the first level including a parent node representing the multidimensional data and the subsequent levels including one or more nodes representing a subset of the data repressed by the parent node along dimensions selected by a user. The decomposition tree may include nodes belonging to the same dimension in different levels of the decomposition tree. A node in the decomposition tree may be split by more than one dimension inside a same subsequent level. |
| US09465522B2 |
Providing a personalized navigation experience in a mobile application
The disclosed embodiments relate to a system for presenting navigation options to a user of a mobile application. During operation, the system receives usage data comprising a record of actions performed while the user was interacting with the mobile application. Next, the system analyzes the usage data to identify areas of interest within the mobile application that the user is likely to access. The system then constructs a set of personalized navigation options for the user based on the identified areas of interest, and possibly other areas of the application based on promotional considerations. Finally, the system outputs the set of personalized navigation options to be presented to the user through a navigation pane in the mobile application, wherein the navigation pane includes shortcuts to the set of personalized navigation options. |
| US09465520B2 |
Messaging device
A portable messaging device is provided that can display visual messages and communicate with additional messaging devices via a local area network. The portable messaging device can include a display panel having an LED array, and a control unit. Lateral side walls, and the inner surface of the display panel can define at least part of a recessed opening configured to receive an electronic device such as a smartphone. The control unit can receive input via a user interface of the portable messaging device and, responsive to the input, provide a visual message to the LED array for display from the outer surface of the display panel. |
| US09465519B2 |
Methods and systems for in silico experimental designing and performing a biological workflow
Embodiments describe a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium encoded with instructions, executable by a processor, comprising instructions for a method for performing a biological workflow in silico comprising: presenting to a user a plurality of subroutines listed in a sequential order of the workflow, wherein at least two subroutines comprise two steps; providing the user ability to navigate to any subroutine and/or step, to select a subroutine, to view, set, or change one or more parameters associated with step/subroutine; providing option to display biomolecule(s) resulting from execution of the subroutines/steps; and providing an option to navigate to a prior subroutine and change a parameter of a step of the prior subroutine and execute the step of the prior subroutine, if the user is not satisfied with the displayed biomolecule(s). Computer systems and methods for performing a biological workflow in silico are also described. |
| US09465512B2 |
Discovering and presenting décor harmonized with a décor style
Technology is disclosed for discovering décor harmonized with a décor style (“the technology”). The décor includes décor items, e.g. artworks, paintings, pictures, artifacts, architectural pieces, arrangement of artworks, color selection, room décor, rugs, mats, furnishings, household items, fashion, clothes, jewelry, car interiors, garden arrangements etc. The technology facilitates analyzing user input to identify a décor style from a décor style dictionary, obtaining décor that harmonizes with décor style, and presenting a representation of the décor to the user. The décor style dictionary includes décor styles that are generated based on an analysis of content, including images and description of décor, from a plurality of sources. The décor styles can be based on a number of concepts, including a theme of the décor, a color/color palette, a mood of the person, a fashion era, a type of architecture, etc. The technology facilitates presentation of discovered décor using computer generated imagery techniques. |
| US09465511B1 |
Graphical user interfaces for managing hierarchical systems
A graphical user interface for managing hierarchical systems is provided. A graphical user interface that includes a navigation bar having a domain element and a plurality of object elements is presented. The object elements are associated with different object types in a hierarchical system and are arranged based, at least in part, on the hierarchical system. A first menu that includes a list of objects of a first object type is presented in response to detecting an interaction with a first object element. Information presented on a second object element is filtered in response to a selection of a specific object via the first menu. A second menu that includes a list of all objects that are associated with the plurality of object elements is presented in response to detecting an interaction with the domain element while continuing to filter the information presented on the second object element. |
| US09465509B2 |
System and method for unlimited multi-user computer desktop environment
Described herein are systems and methods for enabling an unlimited multi-user desktop environment. In accordance with an embodiment the system includes a computing device hosting the desktop. Each user connects to the desktop through the same or different computing devices. Each user will in their client-area render a section of the unlimited multi-user desktop. The section can be the same or different for all users. An embodiment will allow compatible objects to render the same content at different content positions for each connected user. For example a user can scroll on a shared webpage without impacting the scroll position for other users looking at the same window of the same webpage. Additional embodiments are also described herein. |
| US09465508B1 |
High assurance classification disambiguation of user input on tactical display systems
A method for indicating the security level of a selected element on a multi-level security display includes determining a security level of a selected element and modifying the visual representation of the selected element to indicate the security level and/or providing an audible tone. Visual distinction may include a security tag, color variation or flashing pattern. |
| US09465503B2 |
In-product questions, answers, and tips
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for providing help content related to a software application to a user. The technique involves receiving a first discussion element associated with a first user and including textual input related to a first software application and first contextual information related to the first software application. The technique further involves receiving second contextual information associated with a second user and related to the first software application, determining a measure of correlation between the first contextual information and the second contextual information, determining that the first discussion element should be transmitted to the second user based on the measure of correlation, and transmitting the first discussion element to the second user. |
| US09465502B2 |
Double-sided touch-sensitive panel with shield and drive combined layer
A multi-touch capacitive touch sensor panel can be created using a substrate with column and row traces formed on either side of the substrate. To shield the column (sense) traces from the effects of capacitive coupling from a modulated Vcom layer in an adjacent liquid crystal display (LCD) or any source of capacitive coupling, the row traces can be widened to shield the column traces, and the row traces can be placed closer to the LCD. In particular, the rows can be widened so that there is spacing of about 30 microns between adjacent row traces. In this manner, the row traces can serve the dual functions of driving the touch sensor panel, and also the function of shielding the more sensitive column (sense) traces from the effects of capacitive coupling. |
| US09465500B2 |
Two-touch gesture detection on a four-wire resistive touchscreen
Embodiments of a touchscreen control device and associated method of operation enable two-touch gesture detection on a four-wires resistive touchscreen. Illustrative devices and methods enable detection when a resistive touchscreen is touched in two separate points. Embodiments of an electronic circuit can comprise a controller configured for coupling to a four-wires resistive touchscreen and at least two resistors. The controller can be further configured to detect multiple touches on the four-wires resistive touchscreen and measure zoom gestures comprising measuring distances between two-touches and obtaining angle of rotation and total distance between the two-touches. |
| US09465498B2 |
Touchscreen
A touchscreen includes a plurality of X electrodes extending in a first direction and arranged in parallel in a second direction, a plurality of Y electrodes extending in the second direction so as to intersect the X electrodes and arranged in parallel in the first direction, and pedestal layers formed at respective intersections between the plurality of X electrodes and the plurality of Y electrodes, wherein an intersection portion of each Y electrode is formed under the pedestal layer, wherein a part of an intersection portion of each X electrode is formed on the pedestal layer and both ends thereof are electrically connected to adjacent electrode portions of the X electrodes, and wherein a profile of a portion of the pedestal layer intersecting the intersection portion of the X electrode has a nonlinear shape when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the substrate. |
| US09465490B2 |
Curved surface sensor pattern
A touch sensor includes a flexible substrate, a plurality of sense electrodes and a plurality of drive electrodes disposed on the flexible substrate, a plurality of electrode branches, and a central spine. Each of the plurality of sense and drive electrodes includes electrode teeth, and electrode teeth of the sense electrodes are interdigitated with electrode teeth of the drive electrodes. Each particular electrode branch includes a portion of at least one of the drive electrodes and a portion of at least one of the sense electrodes. The central spine includes tracks that are coupled to the sense and drive electrodes. When the touch sensor is not formed into a three-dimensional shape, at least a portion of one of the electrode branches is separated from an adjacent electrode branch by a gap. When the touch sensor is formed into a three-dimensional shape, the gap is substantially eliminated, thereby forming a substantially continuous touch-sensitive surface. |
| US09465482B2 |
Display guarding techniques
Embodiments described herein mitigate the effect of a coupling capacitance between a sensor electrode in a touch sensor and a display electrode in a display screen. An input device, which includes the touch sensor and display screen, may transmit a guarding signal on the display electrodes when performing capacitive sensing. In one embodiment, the guarding signal may have similar characteristics as a modulated signal (e.g., similar amplitude and/or phase) driven on the sensor electrode to detect interaction between the input device and an input object. By driving a guarding signal that is similar to the modulated signal onto the display electrodes, the voltage difference between the sensor electrode and display electrode remains the same. Accordingly, the coupling capacitance between the sensor electrode and the display electrode does not affect a capacitance measurement used to detect the user interaction. |
| US09465476B1 |
Electronic device with seamless protective cover glass input
An electronic device with seamless protective cover glass is disclosed. In the described embodiments, the cover glass is coupled to the housing such that the cover glass or portions of the cover glass move with respect to the housing. This movement can be used as an interface for receiving user inputs that can be used to provide control signals to the electronic device. |
| US09465472B1 |
Metal mesh touch sensor with low birefringence substrate and ultraviolet cut
A touch-sensitive display for an electronic device may include a touch sensor comprising a low birefringence substrate, ultraviolet (UV) stabilizers, and a metal mesh disposed on at least a portion of the low birefringence substrate. The low birefringence characteristic of the touch sensor substrate causes the touch sensor to exhibit low haze, high transmittance, and substantially no color, which provides improved optical properties over conventional touch sensor substrate materials used with metal mesh film. In some embodiments, the retardation value of the touch sensor substrate may be no greater than about 15 nanometers (nm). Additionally, the UV stabilizers prevent the substrate from yellowing and becoming brittle from exposure to UV radiation. |
| US09465467B2 |
Flexible printed circuit board and touch panel including the same
A flexible printed circuit board having enhanced peeling force and a touch panel including the same are provided. The flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) includes a first bonding portion and a second bonding portion respectively bonded to a first circuit unit and a second circuit unit. The first bonding portion includes a pad corresponding portion corresponding to pads of the first circuit unit and dummy portions outwardly extending from both end portions of the pad corresponding portion. An FPCB wiring formation portion includes FPCB wirings respectively connected to the pads and extending from the first bonding portion to the second bonding portion and concave portions respectively disposed to be adjacent to the dummy portions and having a curved surface. |
| US09465457B2 |
Multi-touch interface gestures for keyboard and/or mouse inputs
A computing device includes a touch screen displaying a graphical user interface (GUI) and a processing unit programmed to recognize gestures made on the touch screen and execute, in response thereto, a process associated with the gestures. The gestures include at least one of: a tap that causes an animation to be overlaid on the GUI at a location of the tap and, if a cursor is overlaid on the GUI, also causes the cursor to be moved to the location of the tap, a press-and-hold that causes a cursor overlaid on the GUI to be moved to a location of the press-and-hold, a press-and-hold in combination with a tap that causes a mouse right-click command to be executed, a press-and-hold that exceeds a predetermined amount of time in combination with a drag that causes a resizing of the GUI, a simultaneous three-tap that causes a keyboard to be launched and overlaid on the GUI to not obscure the portion of the GUI on top of which the simultaneous three-tap gesture was made, and a two-finger sweep that causes content within the GUI to be scrolled. |
| US09465452B2 |
Information processing apparatus and control method of information processing apparatus
An information processing apparatus includes: an operation unit which includes an operation surface, and a position designation unit which detects at least one operation to the operation surface and outputs a position designation signal according to the detected position; and a control unit which performs a first control operation based on the position designation signal according to the first operation detected by the operation to the operation surface, continues the first operation, and performs a second control operation which is different from the first control operation with respect to the information processing apparatus, based on the new second operation to the operation surface. |
| US09465450B2 |
Method of controlling a system
The invention describes a method of controlling a system (1) comprising one or more components (C1, C2, . . . , Cn), which method comprises the steps of aiming a pointing device (2) comprising a camera (3) in the direction of one or more of the components (C1, C2, . . . , Cn), generating image data (4) of a target area A( ) aimed at by the pointing device (2), encompassing at least part of one or more of the components (C1, C2, . . . , Cn), and analyzing the image data (4) to determine position information (P) pertaining to the position of the user (5) relative to one or more of the components (C1, C2, . . . , Cn) at which the pointing device (2) is being aimed and/or to relative positions of the components. The system (1) is subsequently controlled according to the position information (P). Furthermore, the invention describes a corresponding control system (10), a home entertainment system, and a lighting system. The invention further describes a method of acquiring dimensional data (D) for use in the image data analysis. |
| US09465448B2 |
Backlight for touchless gesture detection
A device and method to detect a gesture performed by an object in touch-less communication with the device are described. The device includes two or more ambient light sensors arranged at respective first surface locations of the device, each of the two or more ambient light sensors sensing light intensity at the respective first surface location. The device also includes one or more processors to operate one or more light sources at respective second surface locations of the device based on the light intensity sensed by the two or more ambient light sensors, and detect the gesture based on the light intensity sensed by each of the two or more ambient light sensors. |
| US09465444B1 |
Object recognition for gesture tracking
The accuracy of object tracking using relatively low power gesture cameras can be improved by adjusting camera settings to ensure a sufficient level of contrast or texture to enable stereo disparity calculations for the representations of the object in the captured images. For general gesture input, for example, a user might use a variety of objects in various orientations, such that conventional face or object recognition processes may not be sufficient. Further, such processes are very resource intensive. By adjusting the camera settings (e.g., exposure, gain, and/or aperture) to ensure an adequate level of contrast, objects of an appropriate size and location can be tracked for purposes such as gesture input. Once such an object is identified, coordinates for a bounding box or other indicator can be transferred to any camera or sensor to be used for the tracking. |
| US09465441B2 |
Navigation device
An optical navigation device, including a radiation source capable of producing a beam of radiation; a sensor for receiving an image; and an optical element for identifying movement of an object on a first surface to thereby enable a control action to be carried out. The optical element is such that a whole of the imaged area of the first surface is substantially covered by the object in normal use. The device is operable to receive from the object on the first surface an input describing a pattern, to compare the received pattern to a stored reference pattern and to perform a predetermined function if the received pattern and stored reference pattern are substantially similar. The pattern may be a continuous line, the device being operable to store the continuous line as a set of turning points in chronological order. |
| US09465440B2 |
Electronic device and method of displaying information in response to a gesture
A method includes displaying, on a display of an electronic device, an information element associated with an application and detecting a first gesture. In response to detecting the first gesture, at least a first part of a first image is displayed, including information associated with the application, while reducing display of the information element. |
| US09465437B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling screen by tracking head of user through camera module, and computer-readable recording medium therefor
Controlling a screen by tracking user's head using a camera module is described, comprising: (a) when a request for displaying contents is received, displaying a plurality of content regions on a screen and tracking the head of the user looking at the screen through the camera module; and (b) when it is determined in the tracking that the head of the user moves in a specific direction in a state where information on a first content is displayed in a central content region among the plurality of content regions, displaying, in the central content region, information on a second content which was displayed in a peripheral content region, the peripheral content region being positioned in the specific direction or in a direction opposite to the specific direction from the central content region. |
| US09465433B2 |
Information processing device, method and program
An information processing device includes a capture section capturing an image of an object, an acquisition section acquiring the image captured by the capture section, a calculation section calculating vibration information on the basis of the image acquired by the acquisition section, a determination section determining a vibration command on the basis of the vibration information calculated by the calculation section, and a control section executing predetermined processing on the basis of the vibration command determined by the determination section. |
| US09465432B2 |
Multi-core synchronization mechanism
A microprocessor includes a control unit configured to selectively control a respective clock signal to each of a plurality of processing cores. Each of the processing cores is configured to separately write a value to the control unit. For each core of the plurality of processing cores, the control unit is configured to turn off the respective clock signal to the core in response to the core writing a value to the control unit. The control unit is configured to detect a condition has occurred when all of the processing cores have written a value to the control unit and the control unit has turned off the respective clock signal to all of the processing cores. The control unit is configured to simultaneously turn on the respective clock signal to all of the processing cores in response to detecting the condition has occurred. |
| US09465430B2 |
Memory with variable operation voltage and the adjusting method thereof
A memory with variable operation voltage is disclosed. The disclosed DRAM comprises a core memory module, a register, and a first voltage adjustment module. The core memory module operates with a first control voltage. The register is used for storing a plurality of control signals and selecting one among the control signals as a voltage control signal according to an input signal. The first voltage adjustment module is respectively electrically connected to the register, the core memory module, and an external voltage, so as to provide the first control voltage according to the voltage control signal and the external voltage. |
| US09465427B2 |
Software-centric power management by indirectly determining that user is not actively using computer program running on computing device
A trigger can relate to power usage of a computing device that a computer program to be run or running on the computing device causes. Detection of the trigger causes performance of a power-saving action. The power-saving action relates to the computer program to reduce the power usage of the computing device. The power-saving action is a strictly software-oriented action. An amount of power of the computing device used in detecting the trigger and performing the power-saving action is less than a reduction of the power usage of the computing device that results from performing the power-saving action, resulting in a net power usage reduction. |
| US09465426B2 |
Method for backing up data in a case of power failure of storage system, and storage system controller
The present invention discloses a method for backing up data in a case of a power failure of a storage system including: when a power failure is detected, acquiring current refresh progress of a buffer in a storage system, an address, in the buffer, of data that is in the buffer and needs to be backed up to a non-volatile memory in the storage system, and a first time required for backing up the data; calculating, according to the current refresh progress of the buffer and the address of the data in the buffer, a second time for which the data can at least keep being not lost since a last refresh; and stopping refreshing the buffer, and backing up the data to the non-volatile memory, if the second time is greater than the first time. |
| US09465424B2 |
Power saving during a connection detection
In a particular embodiment, an electronic device includes a direct current (DC) voltage source coupled to a DC interface. The electronic device includes a receiver sense circuit configured to detect a connection of the electronic device to a sink device via a connector without consuming power from the DC voltage source. The electronic device further includes a controller coupled to a hot plug detect (HPD) interface. The controller is configured to receive a detection signal from the receiver sense circuit, selectively control a switch to enable and disable the DC voltage source based on the detection signal, detect an HPD signal at the HPD interface after enabling the DC voltage source, and disable the receiver sense circuit in response to detecting the HPD signal. |
| US09465421B2 |
Partitioned switch mode power supply (SMPS) interface
A single-wire interface of an application processor that communicates with another single-wire interface of a power management unit (PMU) via a control signal line. The control signal line can be a single signal path. Further, the single-wire interfaces can communicate with each other only via the control signal line. The single-wire interfaces can be utilized for the communication of pulse width modulation (PWM) control signals, current sensing, and Zero-I detection. |
| US09465420B2 |
Electronic devices having integrated reset systems and methods thereof
Methods and devices for power cycling an electronic device are provided. Also provided are systems and kits. |
| US09465419B2 |
Method for locking a wake-up signal
A method for locking a control device, the control device to be wakened by a wake-up signal, in which the wake-up signal is blocked by an excess-temperature circuit. |
| US09465416B2 |
Electronic device
An electronic device including a first case, a first protrusion, a click pad and a frame is provided. The first case has an accommodating cavity, wherein the accommodating cavity is recessed from a surface of the first case and forms a bottom plate, first and second side walls which are erected on one pair of opposite sides of the bottom plate, and two third side walls which are erected on another pair of opposite sides of the bottom plate. The first protrusion is disposed on the bottom plate. The click pad has a switch. The frame is disposed between the first case and the clip pad, wherein the click pad is assembled in the accommodating cavity by the frame, and the switch directly faces to the first protrusion. |
| US09465415B2 |
Portable device
A portable device, e.g. a laptop, includes a first part (110), e.g. a base element, and a second part (120), e.g. a lid element. The second part (120) contains an optical remote sensing system (300). The second part (120) is pivotably attached to the first part (110) via a hinge means (115), such that the portable device may be arranged in an open and a closed position respectively. The optical remote sensing system (300) is configured to track at least one distinctive feature of a user of the portable device when arranged in the open position. The first and second parts (110; 120) have a respective essentially flat inner surface (111; 121), which when the portable device is arranged in the closed position are parallel and face one another. The first part (110) further includes a recess (112a) which is arranged relative to a position of the optical remote sensing system (300) such that, in the closed position, the optical remote sensing system (300) is at least partly contained in the recess (112a). |
| US09465414B2 |
User-removable device cover
An apparatus includes a chassis with at least one chassis latching member and an outward facing, protruding portion. A cover of the apparatus includes an opening that encompasses the protruding portion of the chassis and at least one cover latching member that interfaces with the chassis latching member. The cover is slidably disengagable from the chassis by applying a first force on the protruding portion of the chassis in a first direction and applying a second force on the cover in a second direction. |
| US09465411B2 |
Electronic device
An electronic device includes a housing assembly and an electronic module. The housing assembly includes a first housing and a second housing. The first housing includes a main body, an accommodation box and an assembly component. The main body, the accommodation box and the assembly component are formed integrally into a single unit. The main body is connected to the accommodation box which has an accommodating space, a first side and a second side. The first side is opposite to the second side. The assembly component is disposed at the second side. The second housing detachably covers the accommodation box and the assembly component. The electronic module includes a fastening structure and is movably disposed in the accommodating space via the first side of the accommodation box. Accordingly, the fastening structure is combined with the assembly component. |
| US09465405B1 |
Synchronous communication between system in package (SiP) devices
A source clock signal is received from a primary semiconductor device by a secondary semiconductor device via an interconnect. A local clock signal is generated on the secondary semiconductor device based on the source clock signal. A mode control signal is generated on the secondary semiconductor device, where the mode control signal indicates one of an unlock mode of operation and a lock mode of operation of the secondary semiconductor device. A physical interface (PHY) clock signal is generated based on the local clock signal, where the PHY clock signal includes the local clock signal during the lock mode, and the PHY clock signal includes an inverted version of the local clock signal during the unlock mode. Data received from the primary semiconductor device via the interconnect is latched at a positive edge of the PHY clock signal during the unlock mode and the lock mode. |
| US09465398B2 |
System and methods for actively managing electric power over an electric power grid
Systems and methods for managing power on an electric power grid including a server for communicating IP-based messages over a network with distributed power consuming devices and/or power supplying devices, the IP-based messages including information including a change in state of the power consuming device(s), a directive for a change in state of the power consuming device(s), a priority message, an alert, a status, an update, a location with respect to the electric power grid, a function, device attributes, and combinations thereof. |
| US09465396B2 |
AVS master slave
Aspects of the disclosure provide an integrated circuit (IC). The IC includes an input interface and a controller. The input interface is configured to receive an input signal providing information for controlling a supply voltage based on a performance characteristic of another IC. The controller is configured to generate an output signal for controlling the supply voltage based on a combination of the input signal and a performance characteristic of the IC. |
| US09465393B2 |
Power management circuit and method thereof
A power management circuit adapted for a portable electronic device is provided. The portable electronic device receives a supply voltage from a USB power supplying port through a built-in USB charging port. The power management circuit includes a USB detection unit, a voltage detection unit, and a control unit. The USB detection unit determines the type of the USB power supplying port. The voltage detection unit detects the supply voltage. The control unit configures the power consumption of the portable electronic device based on the type of the USB power supplying port and the supply voltage. When the portable electronic device initiates booting process with the USB power supplying port being the Dedication Charging Port and the supply voltage being lowered than a threshold, the control unit reduces the power consumption of the portable electronic device to maintain the supply voltage above the threshold for booting stably. |
| US09465387B2 |
Anomaly diagnosis system and anomaly diagnosis method
The anomaly diagnosis system includes the state measure calculator acquiring sensor data from sensors in a machine facility as time series data; an approximation formula calculator calculating a state measure being an index indicating a state of the machine facility, such as anomaly and a performance by a statistical method in which the time series data is used as learned data; and a state measure estimating unit estimating the state measures until future time using the approximation formula. Whenever the latest time series data is acquired, the reference period in which the time series data corresponding to the state measure referred to calculate the approximation formula by the reference period setting unit, is successively extended by addition of time when the latest time series data is acquired. The approximation formula calculator calculates the approximation formula using the state measure of the time series data acquired in the reference period. |
| US09465385B2 |
Inspecting device monitoring system
In a monitoring system, when there is an evaluation that a product is defective, in a solder print inspecting device that is subject to monitoring, that information is sent to a mobile terminal possessed by an operator. The operator who views the notification performs, through the mobile terminal, a checking task for evaluating whether or not the evaluation result regarding the printed substrate that has been evaluated as a defective product is correct. Depending on the evaluation result, an operating instruction is sent to the solder print inspecting device, which has temporarily stopped the printed substrate. If correction information instructing that the defective-product evaluation be corrected to a non-defective-product evaluation is sent from a mobile terminal to the solder print inspecting device, the solder print inspecting device corrects the defective-product evaluation to a non-defective-product evaluation, and releases the temporary stop of the printed substrate. |
| US09465384B1 |
Methods and systems for tiered programming of robotic device
A method operable by a computing device is provided. The method may include receiving a request for a given task to be performed by a robotic system. The method may also determining one or more subtasks required to perform the given task, where the one or more subtasks include one or more parameters used to define the one or more subtasks. The method may also include determining an arrangement of the one or more subtasks to perform the given task, and providing for display an indication of the one or more undefined parameters for the given task. The method may also include receiving an input defining the one or more undefined parameters for the given task, and executing the one or more subtasks in the determined arrangement and in accordance with the one or more defined parameters to cause the robotic system to perform the given task. |
| US09465382B2 |
Embedded system, fool-proof control method and non-transitory computer-readable storage medium
An embedded system is disclosed. The embedded system is used for preventing a processing machine from an abnormal phenomenon when at least one processing parameter setting value is inputted into the processing machine. The embedded system is electrically connected to the processing machine, and the processing machine comprises an input interface, a first storing medium, a first controller and a stepper motor. The embedded system comprises a second storing medium and a second controller. The second controller captures the a processing parameter setting value inputted and compares it with a security range, so as to determine whether the processing machine is able to perform process for a workpiece. When the second controller determines that the processing machine is not able to perform process for the workpiece, a stop signal is generated and transmitted to the processing machine to stop performing process for the workpiece. |
| US09465381B2 |
Servo control device having automatic filter adjustment function based on experimental modal analysis
A servo control device includes: a speed control loop including a speed command generating unit, a torque command generating unit, and a speed detecting unit; a sine wave disturbance input unit; a frequency response calculating unit estimating a gain and phase of speed control loop input/output signals; a resonance frequency detecting unit; a resonance mode characteristic estimating unit estimating resonance characteristics from the frequency response at a resonance frequency and frequencies therearound; a rigid-body mode characteristic estimating unit estimating rigid-body characteristics from the frequency response in a low-frequency band; a filter attenuating a component in a particular frequency band in a torque command; and a filter adjusting unit making setting so that the filter has specified characteristics. The filter adjusting unit further includes a filter adjusting part attenuating a component in a frequency band corresponding to a resonance mode estimated by the resonance mode characteristic estimating unit. |
| US09465371B2 |
Building automation and control system and method for operating the same
There is disclosed herein a building automation and control system and a method for operating the same. According to the embodiments of the present disclosure, a building controller may process data using a plurality of protocols without using a BACnet gateway, thereby controlling devices in a building coexisting with two or more protocols. According to the embodiments of the present disclosure, sub-systems having different their own protocols, respectively, may be integrated to establish a building automation and control system, and data may be processed using a single building controller, thereby enhancing the scalability and stability of the system. |
| US09465370B2 |
HVAC actuator with soft stall control
A actuator in a HVAC system includes a motor and a drive device driven by the motor. The drive device is coupled to a movable HVAC component for driving the movable HVAC component between multiple positions. The actuator further includes a main actuator controller that determines when the drive device is approaching an end stop and a pulse width modulation (PWM) speed controller that generates a PWM speed output for controlling a speed of the motor. The PWM speed controller sets the PWM speed output to zero in response to a determination that the drive device is approaching the end stop. The PWM speed controller then increases the PWM speed output until the end stop is reached, thereby causing the speed of the motor to increase as the drive device approaches the end stop. |
| US09465364B2 |
Illumination of a date mechanism
A device for illuminating at least one display indicator incorporated in a case underneath an aperture of a horological or scientific apparatus, the device including a phosphorescent light source inside the case, a mechanism collecting external light energy from an ambient medium of the case towards the phosphorescent light source, and at least one light component formed, either by the source, or by a light relay connected to the source by a transmission mechanism, and the light component is configured, to illuminate the indicator, either on the opposite side to the aperture relative to the indicator, or at a periphery of the aperture, and a controller is configured to move a cover insertable between the light component and the indicator. |
| US09465359B2 |
Air blowing system and image forming apparatus including same
Disclosed is an air blowing system including: an air blowing device; a duct that guides air blown by the air blowing device; and a ventilation section disposed downstream of the duct in terms of an air blowing direction in which air is blown by the air blowing device so that the air blown by the air blowing device strikes and passes through the ventilation section, wherein the duct has a distorted portion where a part of an inner wall face of the duct located between the air blowing device and the ventilation section is distorted perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the air blowing direction so that the air blown by the air blowing device flows perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly to the air blowing direction. Also disclosed is an air blowing system including: an air blowing device; and a duct that guides air blown by the air blowing device, wherein the duct has an outer surface on at least a part of which there is provided a surface area reducing portion for reducing a surface area of a continuous face. |
| US09465357B2 |
Cartridge and electrophotographic image forming apparatus using the same
A cartridge that is attached to or detached from a main body of an image forming apparatus. The cartridge includes a memory unit that includes a contact portion via which the cartridge is connected to the main body and is connected to the main body to transmit information of the cartridge to the main body. The contact portion is moved to a first position at which the contact portion is hidden inside the cartridge and a second position at which the contact portions is protruded out of the cartridge to be connected to a connection portion provided in the main body. |
| US09465356B2 |
Image forming apparatus with opening for positioning or regulating a supporting member that supports an image bearing member
An image forming apparatus includes a main assembly to which a cartridge is detachably mountable. The cartridge includes an image bearing member and a supporting member. The cartridge is mountable to the main assembly in the direction of the axis of the image bearing member. An opening is provided in the main assembly for receiving the supporting member and for positioning or regulating the supporting member, with the opening having a V-shaped portion. An urging member is provided for urging the supporting member in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the axis of the image bearing member. |
| US09465355B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes a main body of the apparatus, a cartridge support member, an openable and closable member configured to open and close an opening portion, a linkage mechanism configured to link the openable and closable member and the cartridge support member to each other, and a locking portion configured to prevent the cartridge support member from being detached from the main body of the apparatus. The locking of the cartridge support member by the locking portion is released by releasing the linkage by the linkage mechanism to move the cartridge support member relative to the locking portion. |
| US09465351B2 |
Self-transforming imaging cartridge chip
An electronic circuit for use with a consumable imaging unit comprises information configured to transform said electronic circuit from a communicated state to a non communicated state. Additionally, the information of the circuit is configured to alter an identifier of the circuit. The information of the circuit is also configured to point an imaging machine to communicate with a second element of the circuit after the information determines that a first element of the circuit has been altered from its original state. |
| US09465350B2 |
Toner cartridge and electrophotographic image forming apparatus using the same
A toner cartridge and an electrophotographic image forming apparatus are provided. The toner cartridge attachable to, or detachable from a main body of an image forming apparatus includes a toner containing unit, a waste toner containing unit that is disposed below the toner containing unit in a gravitational direction and comprises a waste toner inlet through which waste toner flows, a first waste toner transporting member that transports the waste toner from the waste toner inlet in a length direction of the waste toner containing unit, and a second waste toner transporting member that transports the waste toner that is transported in the length direction of the waste toner containing unit in a width direction of the waste toner containing unit to disperse the waste toner in an inner portion of the waste toner containing unit, wherein a rotational center of the second waste toner transporting member is lower than a rotational center of the first waste toner transporting member. |
| US09465347B2 |
Transport device and image forming apparatus that can align a transfer belt
A transport device includes a driving roller that drives an endless belt so that the belt rotates, a transfer roller that presses the belt from an inner side of the belt toward an image carrier, which carries a toner image, and transfers the toner image onto the belt, a first stretching roller that stretches the belt, a second stretching roller that stretches the belt, wherein the second stretching roller is disposed at a position between the driving roller and the first stretching roller, and wherein the second stretching roller is disposed on a side on which the transfer roller is in contact with the belt, and an adjusting mechanism that adjusts a direction of a rotary shaft of the second stretching roller. |
| US09465346B2 |
Metallic color image forming apparatus and metallic color image forming method
In accordance with one embodiment, an image forming apparatus forms a metallic toner image with the toner having metallic color tone. The plurality of developing sections includes either or both of a developing section for forming a black toner image with the black toner and a developing section for forming a white toner image with the white toner. The plurality of developing sections is provided with one or more than two developing sections for forming a metallic toner image with the toner having metallic color tone. |
| US09465340B2 |
Method of determining whether or not to perform a decoloring process, and decoloring device
A decoloring device according to an embodiment includes a feeding unit on which sheets are loaded. A first sensor unit is downstream of the feeding unit in a sheet transport direction, detects a front position of the sheet fed from the feeding unit, and detects a presence or absence of an identification mark on a front portion of the sheet outside of an image forming area of the sheet. A control unit determines whether or not an image using the decolorable color material is printed on any one or both sides of the sheet based on whether the first sensor detects an identification mark on the front portion of the sheet, and determines whether to perform the decoloring process based on the determination of whether or not an image using the decolorable color material is printed on the sheet. |
| US09465338B2 |
Fixing member, method for manufacturing the same, fixing apparatus, and image forming apparatus
The present invention relates to a fixing member including a surface layer containing PFA, the fixing member being excellent in wear resistance and having high release properties to a toner. The fixing member includes a base member, an elastic layer provided on the surface of the base member, and a surface layer, wherein the surface layer contains a tetrafluoroethylene-perfluoroalkyl vinyl ether copolymer having a particular partial structure, and has a surface having a contact angle of 67 degrees or more as measured in a mixed liquid for a wetting tension test having a wetting tension of 31.0 mN/m. |
| US09465333B2 |
Recording material conveying device and image forming apparatus
A recording material conveying device includes a stripping claw being in contact with one rotary body of a first pair of rotary bodies, and a supporting member supporting a recording material curved when a jam occurs. The supporting member includes a supporting section located more away from the stripping claw than an imaginary straight line (C) passing a nip portion of the first pair of rotary bodies and a surface on a conveying path's side of the stripping claw, and the supporting section supports the recording material curved when the jam occurs. The recording material conveying device further includes a conveyance guide that is disposed on the downstream side from the supporting member and is displaced toward a pressed direction by a pressing force acting when the curved recording material comes into contact with the conveyance guide. |
| US09465325B2 |
Image forming apparatus, image forming apparatus control method, and recording medium storing image forming apparatus control program
An image forming apparatus and a method of controlling an image forming apparatus, and a non-transitory recording medium storing a program for controlling an image forming apparatus are provided. Each of the image forming apparatus, the method, and the program obtains and stores image identifiers, obtains and stores a passing image identifier for identifying an image to be output to a recording medium to which failure has occurred, transfers a developer image to the recording medium, holds the developer image, presses the recording medium against the holding member, generates and obtains a trigger signal used for determining timing at which a developer image reaches a transfer unit, detects an error in conveyance of the recording medium, and creates a gap between a holding member and a pressing member disposed opposite the holding member when an error is detected in conveyance of the recording medium. |
| US09465321B2 |
Remanufacturing method of developer accommodating unit
Provided is a remanufacturing method of a developer accommodating unit including a frame member configured to accommodate a flexible container for accommodating developer. The remanufacturing method includes taking out the flexible container from the inside of the frame member, and refilling the developer into the flexible container. |
| US09465320B1 |
Developer supplier operable in developer supply pipe and electrophotographic image forming apparatus using the same
A developer supplier for delivering a developer in a supply pipe having a multi-curvature structure is provided. The developer supplier includes a rotation shaft including a rigid first rotation shaft. The developer supplier includes a flexible second rotation shaft that has a smaller bending strength than the first rotation shaft, and is connected to the first rotation shaft, and a spiral wing formed around the rotation shaft, and at least a portion of the spiral wing formed around the second rotation shaft is flexible. |
| US09465318B2 |
Developer accommodating container with toner seal member, unsealing member, and auxiliary unsealing member
A developer accommodating container for accommodating a developer includes: a toner seal member for unsealably sealing an opening of the developer accommodating container; an unsealing member, connected to an end portion of the toner seal member, for unsealing the opening by moving at least a part of the toner seal member; and an auxiliary unsealing member for assisting unsealing by changing a pulling direction of the toner seal member by the unsealing member. The auxiliary unsealing member includes a shaft portion or a projected portion. The shaft portion or the projected portion extends in a longitudinal direction of the developer accommodating container. |
| US09465315B2 |
Semiconductive roller
A semiconductive roller is provided which includes a roller body formed from a highly extrudable rubber composition containing an SBR and an epichlorohydrin rubber in combination as a rubber component, the roller body having a higher production yield and higher toner imaging durability, and unlikely to suffer from reduction in image density due to adhesion of toner and a contact mark on an outer peripheral surface thereof with a smaller compression set. In the rubber component, the SBR and the epichlorohydrin rubber are present in an SBR excess state. In the rubber composition, a crosslinking component for crosslinking the rubber component includes a sulfur crosslinking agent and 0.75 to 3 parts by mass of a thiazole accelerating agent based on 100 parts by mass of the rubber component. The roller body (2) of the semiconductive roller (1) is made of a crosslinking product of the rubber composition. |
| US09465314B2 |
Light scanning unit and image forming apparatus employing the same
A light scanning unit includes a light source unit emitting a light beam according to an image signal, a light deflector scanning the light beam that is deflectively emitted by the light source unit, a housing having a side portion where the light source unit is provided and a base surface on which the light deflector is provided, and a deformation prevention member connecting opposite sides of the housing across an upper side of the base surface. The light scanning unit is employed by an image forming apparatus. |
| US09465311B2 |
Targeting ads in conjunction with set-top box widgets
A network device receives selection of a widget, for execution at a set-top box (STB) associated with a customer, from multiple widgets stored at a server, where each of the multiple widgets includes a software application that the STB can execute to render graphics or images on a screen or to perform other functions associated with the STB. The network device analyzes information associated with the customer and the widget, and selects an ad for the customer based on the analysis, where the ad relates to a product or service available for purchase. The network device causes the selected widget and the selected ad to be delivered to the STB. |
| US09465310B2 |
Liquid toner dispersion and use thereof
A liquid toner dispersion provided with marking particles comprising a pigment and a polyester based resin, the dispersion comprising a nonpolar organic carrier liquid and a hyperdispersant comprising a graft copolymer provided with an anchor group comprising an amine-functionalized polymer onto which at least one stabilizing group is grafted, wherein a first stabilizing group and a second stabilizing group are coupled to the anchor group, wherein the first stabilizing group is a polyolefin and the second stabilizing group is hydroxylated fatty acid compound. |
| US09465306B2 |
Source module of an EUV lithographic apparatus, lithographic apparatus, and method for manufacturing a device
A source module for use in a lithographic apparatus is constructed to generate extreme ultra violet (EUV) and secondary radiation, and includes a buffer gas configured to cooperate with a source of the EUV radiation. The buffer gas has at least 50% transmission for the EUV radiation and at least 70% absorption for the secondary radiation. |
| US09465305B2 |
Method for determining a commutation offset and for determining a compensation map for a stage
A method for determining a commutation offset for a mover (250A) of a mover assembly (220C) that moves and positions a stage (220A) relative to a stage base (220B) includes controlling the mover assembly (220C) in a closed loop fashion to maintain the position of the stage (220A) along a first axis and along a second axis with the stage (220A) levitated above the stage base (220B). The method also includes the steps of (i) directing current to a coil array (240) of the mover assembly (220C) so that the mover assembly (220C) imparts a disturbance on the stage (220A); and (ii) evaluating one or more forces generated by the mover assembly (220C) as a result of the disturbance on the stage (220A) created by the mover (250A). Further, a method for generating a compensation map (1402) includes sequentially directing a plurality of excitation signals to the control of the mover assembly (220C) and determining the control commands that result from the plurality of excitation signals. |
| US09465303B2 |
Exposure apparatus and device manufacturing method
An exposure apparatus includes an atmosphere maintaining unit which maintains an exposure chamber in an air atmosphere, a gas supply unit which supplies air or a mixed gas containing air and an inert gas to a local space, between a final surface of a projection optical system and a substrate, a detector which detects an alignment mark and a reference mark formed on the substrate stage, and a controller. The controller controls the gas supply unit not to supply the mixed gas to the local space when the detector detects the reference mark, and controls the gas supply unit to supply the mixed gas to the local space when an instruction to detect the alignment mark upon setting the local space in a mixed gas atmosphere, and expose the substrate based on the detection results of the reference mark and the alignment mark is issued from the recipe. |
| US09465295B2 |
Pattern forming method
According to one embodiment, first a guide pattern is formed above an object to processing, and then surface modification is performed on the guide pattern. Then a solution including a block copolymer is coated over the object to processing having the guide pattern formed thereon, and the block copolymer is made to phase separate over the object to processing. Subsequently, one component of the phase-separated block copolymer is removed by development. And with the guide pattern coated with other component of the block copolymer as a mask, the object to processing is patterned. |
| US09465293B2 |
Substrate processing apparatus and substrate processing method
Transport mechanisms are respectively provided in first and second processing blocks. Each transport mechanism has a hand. The hand holds the other surface of a substrate without coming into contact with an edge of the substrate. The hand is moved such that the substrate is transported between an adhesion reinforcement processing unit or a cooling unit and a coating processing unit or a development processing unit. In the adhesion reinforcement processing unit and the cooling unit, temperature processing is performed on the substrate while the back surface of the substrate is held by suction. In the coating processing unit and the development processing unit, a processing liquid is supplied to the main surface of the substrate while the back surface of the substrate is held by suction by a spin chuck. |
| US09465291B2 |
Radiation-sensitive resin composition, polymer, compound, and method for producing compound
A radiation-sensitive resin composition includes a polymer that includes a structural unit represented by a formula (1), and an acid generator. R1 is a hydrogen atom, a fluorine atom, or the like. R2 is a hydrogen atom or a monovalent hydrocarbon group. R3 is a hydrogen atom, a monovalent chain hydrocarbon group, or the like. R4 is a hydrogen atom, a monovalent chain hydrocarbon group, or the like. R5 is a hydrogen atom, a monovalent chain hydrocarbon group, or the like. R6 is a monovalent chain hydrocarbon group. R6 is bonded to R3 to form a first alicyclic structure, or R6 is bonded to R5 to form a second alicyclic structure. At least one hydrogen atom of R2, R3, or R4 is optionally substituted with a fluorine atom. |
| US09465285B2 |
Light unit comprising an illumination unit and a projection unit
A light-emitting unit having a lighting unit (10; 110; 210; 310; 410; 510; 610; 710; 810; 910; 1010; 1110) and a projection unit (12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512; 612; 712; 812; 912; 1012; 1112), in which the lighting unit and the projection unit adapted to be switched on and off independently of one another. |
| US09465283B2 |
System for providing an enhanced immersive display environment
An immersive dome includes a number of novel features designed to enhance the performance of the immersive dome over presently-known immersive dome environments. Projectors are mounted in a multi-tier tower, out of sight beneath a viewing platform positioned to provide optimal wrap-around viewing. The projection surface consists of open-cell foam that allows passage of behind-surface sound into the dome while allowing unwanted ambient noise within the dome to escape. A visually-reflective coating, in conjunction with the open cell structure, provides a textured surface that acts as a micro-baffle and suppresses cross-reflection of projected imagery. |
| US09465282B2 |
Optical projecting apparatus having two digital micro-mirror devices
An optical projecting apparatus is used for providing a projecting light to a screen via a projecting lens, the optical projecting apparatus and the projecting lens collectively form an optical projecting system. The optical projecting apparatus includes a first solid state light generator generating a first light beam, a second solid state light generator generating a second light beam, a first wavelength-converting module, and a spatial light modulating module. The first wavelength-converting module converts the first light beam into a wavelength-converted light. The spatial light modulating module splits the wavelength-converted light into a third light beam and a fourth light beam, and transmits the second light beam, the third light beam, and the fourth light beam to the screen via the projecting lens. |
| US09465272B2 |
Electrically controlled fluorescent liquid crystal light valve and display device thereof
The present disclosure relates to an electrically controlled fluorescent liquid crystal light valve and a display device thereof. The electrically controlled fluorescent liquid crystal light valve comprises a liquid crystal cell, a disubstituted phenylethylene photoluminescent material miscible with the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal cell, and a control circuit for controlling the liquid crystal cell. By virtue of the electrically controlled fluorescent liquid crystal light valve and display device thereof according to the present disclosure, the disubstituted phenylethylene photoluminescent material used therein, as compared to a conventional liquid crystal light valve that uses a cyan-substituted-diphenylethylene photoluminescent material, has a better molecule planarity and a greater electron delocalization, which excites fluorescence more easily, exhibits more luminous efficiency and can effect a higher contrast; moreover, the disubstituted phenylethylene photoluminescent material used in the electrically controlled fluorescent liquid crystal light valve of the present disclosure has a fine compatibility with liquid crystal molecules, for which only a blending with the liquid crystal molecules is required before they can become homogenous, where the manufacturing process is simple. |
| US09465271B2 |
Display device
An object is to provide a display device that performs accurate display. A circuit is formed using a transistor that includes an oxide semiconductor and has a low off-state current. A precharge circuit or an inspection circuit is formed in addition to a pixel circuit. The off-state current is low because the oxide semiconductor is used. Thus, it is not likely that a signal or voltage is leaked in the precharge circuit or the inspection circuit to cause defective display. As a result, a display device that performs accurate display can be provided. |
| US09465268B2 |
Liquid crystal display device wherein each of a plurality of first gate lines is spaced apart from a corresponding data line with a common voltage line therebetween
An LCD device includes a plurality of first vertical gate lines and a plurality of data lines vertically disposed in a liquid crystal panel, a plurality of second horizontal gate lines horizontally disposed in the liquid crystal panel, and a plurality of driving ICs disposed in an upper or lower non-display area of the liquid crystal panel. The plurality of horizontal gate lines and the plurality of vertical gate lines may be disposed on different layers. The plurality of vertical gate lines and the plurality of horizontal gate lines are electrically connected to each other in respective pairs through a contact in an overlapping area therebetween. |
| US09465267B2 |
Display device
A display device includes: a substrate; electrode terminals for external connection; an insulating film on the respective electrode terminals, the insulating film provided with openings which expose part of the respective electrode terminals, the insulating film covering the other portion of the respective electrode terminals; surface conductive films which are disposed so as to correspond to the respective openings, and are connected to part of the respective electrode terminals; and a circuit board disposed so as to oppose the substrate, the circuit board including circuit electrode terminals which are connected to the surface conductive films through a conductive bonding member so as to oppose the respective openings, the surface conductive films extending from an inside of an opening corresponding thereto to a surface of an insulating film corresponding thereto, peripheral edges of the respective surface conductive films being positioned beyond a peripheral edge of a circuit electrode terminal corresponding thereto. |
| US09465266B2 |
Liquid crystal display device
To provide a liquid crystal display device capable of improving protection of a wire connected to a group of terminals, a TFT substrate has, on the side of a liquid crystal layer, a plurality of wires extending from an overlap part A to a non-overlap part B, a protective film covering the plurality of wires, a plurality of protective conductor lines formed on the protective film, each corresponding to each wire and lying across the boundary between the overlap part A and the non-overlap part B, a protective film covering the plurality of protective conductor lines, and a group of terminals formed on the non-overlap part B and connected to the plurality of wires. |
| US09465263B2 |
Liquid crystal display device having an overlapping pixel electrode and data line
A liquid crystal display device includes a first substrate, a gate line disposed on the first substrate, a data line disposed on the first substrate and intersecting the gate line, and a pixel electrode disposed in a pixel region at least partially defined by the gate line and the data line, and overlapping the data line, the pixel electrode including first and second sub-pixel electrodes separated from each other. Each of the first and second sub-pixel electrodes includes a horizontal stem extending in a direction intersecting the data line, and branches connected to the horizontal stem. |
| US09465254B2 |
Liquid crystal display device having an alignment film comprising an inclined surface inside an edge-part area
In the first substrate of a liquid crystal display device, a plurality of gate lines that extend along the row direction, a plurality of data lines that extend along the column direction, a plurality of pixel electrodes and a plurality of thin film transistors that are placed respectively in association with a plurality of pixels that are formed in the row direction and the column direction, and an alignment film, are formed, and the thickness of the alignment film in an edge-part area, which is an area of a predetermined width from an edge part of an image display area that is formed with the plurality of pixels, is thinner than the thickness of the alignment film in the center part of the image display area. |
| US09465253B2 |
Liquid crystal display apparatus having excellent viewing angle compensation
A liquid crystal display apparatus of the present invention includes: a liquid crystal cell including a pair of substrates provided with a color filter on one substrate, and a liquid crystal layer as a display medium arranged between the substrates; and an optical compensation element including at least an optical compensation layer. The substrate provided with the color filter has a haze value of more than 10%, and the optical compensation element and the liquid crystal layer are arranged on the same side with respect to the color filter. |
| US09465251B2 |
Light emitting diode package and liquid crystal display device including the same
A light emitting diode package includes: a light emitting diode (LED); and an LED lens over the LED, the LED lens having a symmetrical shape with respect to a central axis, wherein the LED lens includes a lower surface having first and second lower surfaces, an upper surface and a side surface connecting the lower surface and the upper surface, wherein the light through the first lower surface is totally reflected on the upper surface and is emitted though the side surface, wherein the first lower surface includes a first curved surface extending from the central axis and a second curved surface extending from a first end portion of the first curved surface, and wherein the second lower surface is flat and extends from a second end portion of the second curved surface. |
| US09465244B2 |
Liquid crystal display
There is provided a liquid crystal display including: a liquid crystal display element which includes a pair of alignment films which are provided on facing surface sides of a pair of substrates, and a liquid crystal layer which is provided between the pair of alignment films and is configured to have a liquid crystal composition containing liquid crystal molecules having negative dielectric anisotropy, in which at least one of the pair of alignment films contains a compound obtained by crosslinking polymer compounds each including a first side chain which interacts with the liquid crystal molecules and a crosslinkable functional group as a second side chain, with each other, the liquid crystal composition configuring the liquid crystal layer contains at least one kind of an alkenyl compound represented by the following general formula (AN-1), and pretilt is applied to the liquid crystal molecules by the crosslinked compound. |
| US09465243B2 |
Liquid crystal display device and method of manufacturing liquid crystal display device
Provided is a liquid crystal display device including: a CF substrate; a TFT substrate disposed at a position facing the CF substrate; a transfer member provided at a corner portion in a bezel region of the TFT substrate; a spacer member for maintaining a distance between the CF substrate and the TFT substrate within a predetermined range; and a cutting mark made of the same material as that of the spacer member, and disposed on the CF substrate between a cutting line for the CF substrate from a mother CF substrate and the transfer member. |
| US09465233B2 |
Bimodular contact lenses
Ophthalmic lenses for correcting refractive error of an eye are disclosed. Ophthalmic lenses include an inner optic portion configured to be disposed over the optical region of the cornea and having a central portion disposed between an anterior portion and a posterior portion. The inner optic portion is configured to at least partially diverge from the shape of the cornea to provide at least one lenticular volume between a posterior surface of the inner optic portion and the cornea. The central portion may be characterized by a thickness from 50 μm to 900 μm and a modulus form 20 MPa to 1500 MPa. |
| US09465231B2 |
Lens driving device and method of manufacturing the same
A lens driving device and a method of manufacturing the device include a driving device having a lens with an optical axis, a focusing coil disposed at a periphery of the lens with respect to the optical axis, a vibration correction coil set comprising a plurality of coils and disposed on a flat surface perpendicular to the optical axis, and a plurality of magnets disposed at the periphery of the lens with respect to the optical axis, with each magnet having a first surface facing the focusing coil and a second surface facing a corresponding one of respective coils of the vibration correction coil set. |
| US09465230B2 |
Lens holding device
A lens holding unit is held so that it can relatively move with respect to a base part to a direction vertical to an optical axis direction. The lens holding unit has a lens holder, a magnet part, and a spring. The lens holder has a first coil. The magnet part has a first magnet part which includes a first face facing to the first coil and a second magnet part which includes a second face vertical to the first face and constitutes a magnetic domain different from that of the first magnet part. These first magnet part and second magnet part are integrated. |
| US09465229B2 |
Image stabilizer and electronic apparatus including the same
An image stabilizer includes a correction lens module including a correction lens and a correction lens supporting plate to which the correction lens is coupled, a plurality of drivers configured to move the correction lens module in a direction perpendicular an optical axis, each driver including a magnet member fixed to the correction lens supporting plate and a coil configured to react to the magnet member, and a plurality of location restoration units disposed to face the plurality of drivers, configured to restore the correction module to an initial location, and including magnetic bodies. The magnet member may include a first magnet, a second magnet, and a third magnet coupled in one body. |
| US09465228B2 |
Illumination apparatus optimized for synthetic aperture optics imaging using minimum selective excitation patterns
A synthetic aperture optics (SAO) imaging method minimizes the number of selective excitation patterns used to illuminate the imaging target, based on the objects' physical characteristics corresponding to spatial frequency content from the illuminated target and/or one or more parameters of the optical imaging system used for SAO. With the minimized number of selective excitation patterns, the time required to perform SAO is reduced dramatically, thereby allowing SAO to be used with DNA sequencing applications that require massive parallelization for cost reduction and high throughput. In addition, an SAO apparatus optimized to perform the SAO method is provided. The SAO apparatus includes a plurality of interference pattern generation modules that can be arranged in a half-ring shape. |
| US09465226B2 |
Automatic shutdown of 3D based on glasses orientation
Devices, systems, and methods are presented for shutting down the 3D effect of active shutter 3D glasses by synchronizing the transparency of the lenses with respect to each other when the 3D glasses have been rotated beyond a threshold angle. The threshold angle can be pre-set through a user-selectable switch. Transitioning from an alternating shutter mode to a synchronized shutter mode can include a fade in which the duty cycles of the lens are adjusted. Direct measurement techniques for measuring the differential roll angle between the lenses and left and right eye images on a display are disclosed. |
| US09465224B2 |
Image display device and image display method
If a detected orientation of a device is turned 180 degrees from the upright direction, a three-dimensional image that can be viewed normally as a stereoscopic view can be displayed regardless of the orientation in which the device is used, by turning images that are to be viewed respectively by the left and right eyes, and inverting the arrangement of the images that are to be viewed respectively by the left and right eyes. |
| US09465223B2 |
Barrier substrate, barrier panel having the same and display apparatus having the same
A crosstalk-reducing barrier panel is provided atop of a 3D-capable image panel where the image panel displays 3D imagery by alternatingly projecting left-eye imagery and right-eye imagery and where crosstalk may develop between leaked portions of the left and right-eye light rays produced by the image panel. The barrier panel includes a base substrate, odd-numbered barrier electrodes, even-numbered barrier electrodes, first through fourth signal delivering lines, and one or more signal generators that generate a first signal and a second signal. The first signal is respectively delivered to opposed ends of the odd-numbered barrier electrodes by way of a respective first “short-path” delivery route and also by way of a respective first “long-path” delivery route. The second signal is respectively delivered to opposed ends of the even-numbered barrier electrodes by way of a respective second “short-path” delivery route and also by way of a respective second “long-path” delivery route. |
| US09465217B2 |
Virtual image display apparatus
An optical unit housing section and a light guide device are supported by a frame. Durability of sections having an optical function in an entire apparatus is maintained. The frame is arranged on a side closer to the nose of an observer than the optical unit housing section and reduced in size. Consequently, a virtual image display apparatus can give an impression that the virtual image display apparatus is small in size in appearance as a whole. Further, it is possible to attain a reduction in the weight of the entire virtual image forming apparatus. Compared with a structure in which the entire apparatus is covered with a case-like member, the virtual image display apparatus can be formed in a shape closer to a form of eyeglasses. It is possible to attain design with apparent voluminousness suppressed. |
| US09465216B2 |
Wearable display device
A wearable display device is disclosed, which includes: a frame; a display unit configured to show an image in at least a partial area thereof and positioned in front of a user's eye in a first mode; a main unit coupled to the frame; and a hinge disposed at a coupling point of the display unit and the main unit to enable a rotation of the display unit, where the display unit is rotatable about the hinge by at least 180 degrees. With the device disclosed herein, it possible to prevent malfunctioning and damage even when the device is worn for extended periods, and it is also possible to resolve the problem of the wearable display device obstructing the field of vision when not in use. |
| US09465208B2 |
Facet mirror device
A facet mirror device includes a facet element, a support device and a clamping device. The facet element includes a first support section, while the support device comprises a second support section contacting the first support section to support the facet element. The clamping device includes a tensioning element, a first end of the tensioning element being connected to the facet element a second end of the tensioning element being connected to a counter unit. The counter unit includes a third support section, the support device including a fourth support section contacting the third support section to support the counter unit. |
| US09465207B1 |
Pixel wall and spacer configuration for an electrowetting display
A method for fabricating an electrowetting display may include depositing a first material layer on a support plate; placing a first mask on the first material layer, wherein the first mask covers first portions of the first material layer and does not cover second portions of the first photoresist layer; exposing second portions of the first material layer to electromagnetic radiation; depositing a second material layer on the first mask and the exposed second portions of the first material layer; placing a second mask on the second material layer; and etching to remove portions of the second material layer and the second portions of the first material layer. Portions of the first and second material layers that remain subsequent to the etching form spacers and a grid of pixel wall extensions. |
| US09465206B1 |
Adhesive/sealing material for an electrowetting device
Subject matter disclosed herein relates to improving a contact diameter of an adhesive/sealing material on surfaces of substrates by altering rheological properties of the adhesive/sealing material. An electrowetting display device comprises a first substrate and a second substrate, a first fluid and a second fluid disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate, wherein the first fluid is immiscible with the second fluid. An adhesive/sealing material comprising UV curable epoxy glue is in contact with the second fluid and couples the second substrate to the first substrate. The adhesive/sealing material further comprises silica particles in a range of 1-6% mass fraction of silica that alter rheological properties of the UV curable epoxy glue. |
| US09465203B2 |
Zoom lens and image pickup apparatus including the same
Provided is a zoom lens, including, in order from object side to image side: first and second lens units having positive and negative powers, respectively; and three or more lens units. An interval between adjacent ones of the lens units is changed during zooming. An N-th lens unit, where 5≦N holds, counted from object side has negative refractive power, and moves to image side during focusing from infinite object to a close distance object. The N-th lens unit includes, in order from object side to image side, negative, positive, negative, and positive lenses. A focal length (fN) of N-th lens unit, a focal length (fT) of an entire system at telephoto end, a distance (o1N) from a surface vertex of N-th lens unit on object side to a front principal point position of N-th lens unit, and a length (dN) on optical axis of N-th lens unit are appropriately set. |
| US09465201B2 |
Imaging lens and imaging apparatus
An imaging lens substantially consists of negative first lens, positive second lens, negative third lens, positive fourth lens, positive fifth lens, and negative sixth lens in this order from an object side. At least one of second lens through sixth lens satisfies the following conditional expression (1), and the imaging lens, as a whole, satisfies the following conditional expression (2): (1/τi)×(f/fi)<0 (1); and Σ(1/τi)×(f/fi)<0 (i=1 through 6) (2). |
| US09465200B2 |
Lens positioning structure for zoom lens
An apparatus for adjusting a zoom lens that includes a mechanical structure having a plurality of lens assemblies and an actuator to adjust a zoom level or focus of the apparatus. |
| US09465199B2 |
Imaging optical system having bending optical element
An imaging optical system includes a bending optical element which bends an object-emanating light bundle, a post-bending lens system on a post-bending optical axis defined by the bending optical element, and an image sensor. An effective optical surface of a large-diameter lens element, having a greatest axial light bundle effective radius, is formed into a non-circular shape by making a length of the effective optical surface from the post-bending optical axis toward a side opposite from the object side smaller than the axial light bundle effective radius, with reference to the axial light bundle effective radius lying on a plane which extends orthogonal to a plane including both the post-bending optical axis and a pre-bending optical axis of the imaging optical system and includes the post-bending optical axis. |
| US09465198B2 |
Optical imaging lens and electronic device comprising the same
An optical imaging lens set includes an aperture stop, a first lens element to a sixth lens element from an object side toward an image side along an optical axis. The first lens element has an image-side surface with a convex portion in a vicinity of its periphery. The second lens element has an image-side surface with a concave portion in a vicinity of the optical axis and a convex portion in a vicinity of its periphery. The third lens element is made of plastic. The fourth lens element has an image-side surface with a concave portion in a vicinity of its periphery. The fifth lens element is made of plastic. The sixth lens element is made of plastic and has an object-side surface with a concave portion in a vicinity of the optical axis. |
| US09465197B2 |
Imaging lens system
An imaging lens system comprises, in order from an object side to an image side: a first lens element with positive refractive power having a convex object-side surface; a second lens element with refractive power; a third lens element with refractive power having object-side and image-side surfaces being aspheric, at least one surface thereof having at least one inflection point; a fourth lens element with refractive power having a concave object-side surface and a convex image-side surface; a fifth lens element with refractive power having an aspheric object-side surface and an aspheric concave image-side surface, the image-side surface thereof having at least one inflection point. |
| US09465196B2 |
Optical imaging lens and electronic device comprising the same
An optical imaging lens set includes a first lens element with a concave image-side surface in a vicinity of its periphery, a second lens element with a convex object-side surface in a vicinity of the optical axis and a convex image-side surface in a vicinity of its periphery, a third lens element with positive refractive power, a concave object-side surface in a vicinity of the optical axis and a convex image-side surface in a vicinity of the optical axis and a fourth lens element with a concave image-side surface in a vicinity of the optical axis and a convex image-side surface in a vicinity of its periphery. |
| US09465195B2 |
Imaging lens and imaging apparatus
An imaging lens substantially consists of a first lens-group, a stop and a second lens-group in this order from an object-side. The first lens-group substantially consists of three or less lenses including at least one negative lens and a positive lens. The second lens-group substantially consists of a 21st lens-group and a 22nd lens-group in this order from the object-side. The 21st lens-group substantially consists of three or less lenses and has positive refractive-power. The 22nd lens-group substantially consists of two lenses of a negative lens and a positive lens in this order from the object-side. Predetermined conditional formulas about distance on an optical-axis from a most-object-side lens surface in an entire system to an image-plane, maximum image height, distance on the optical-axis from a most-object-side lens surface in the first lens-group to a most-image-side lens surface in the second lens-group, and focal-length of the entire system are satisfied. |
| US09465190B2 |
Lens barrel and image pickup apparatus
A lens barrel 16 includes a movable cam ring 8, and a first lens holder 1b holding a first lens unit 1a and configured to follow a cam groove 8f formed on the movable cam ring 8, and the first lens holder 1b is provided with an opening 1c into which at least part (a protrusion 8c) of the movable cam ring 8 is insertable. |
| US09465189B2 |
Optical probe
An embodiment of the present invention provides an optical probe, comprising: a first sleeve in which a lens is contained, the first sleeve having a light transmission aperture from which an exciting light enters the first sleeve; a second sleeve movably engaged with the first sleeve and having a detection window from which the exciting light having passed through the first sleeve and focused by the lens exits the optical probe, the second sleeve being capable of moving with respect to the first sleeve from a first detection position to a second detection position or from the second detection position to the first detection position; and a positioning member configured to position the second sleeve at the first detection position or the second detection position with respect to the first sleeve. |
| US09465187B2 |
Thermal despace compensation systems and methods
Techniques are disclosed for systems and methods to provide thermal despace compensation for optics assemblies, such as devices including one or more lenses and/or optical devices. A thermal despace compensation system may include one or more interfaces substantially situated between optical devices that expand and contract with changing temperature according to their coefficients of thermal expansion (CTEs). Each interface may be implemented with one or more shapes and/or interfaces adapted to provide a compensation despace to compensate for thermal expansion and contraction and/or reduce optical defects caused by changes in temperature of the various optical devices. |
| US09465183B2 |
Metal armored break-out cable assembly with grounding feature
A break-out assembly includes an enclosure including a first side with a first opening and a second side, opposite the first side, with a plurality of second openings. A conductive frame is disposed within the enclosure. The conductive frame includes a first spring basket aligned to the first opening and a plurality of second spring baskets aligned to the plurality of second openings. |
| US09465181B2 |
Organizer for an optical fibre cable and method of providing a splice for an optical fibre cable
An organizer for an optical fiber cable has at least two loop retaining sections (16; 33) facing each other with a predetermined distance such that a loop (10) of the optical fiber cable (12) is restrained between the loop retaining sections (16; 33) by an elastic resetting force of the looped optical fiber cable (10). Certain types of organizers are removably mounted to a base to be free-standing. |
| US09465179B2 |
Optical base layer
An optical base layer (OBL) (102) comprises a number of waveguides (124) disposed inside the OBL (102), and a number of socket connectors (116, 120) formed on the optical base layer and extending through a motherboard (104) to optically couple the OBL (102) to a number of components disposed on the motherboard (104). An optical base layer (OBL) (102) comprises a number of adjustable arms (1105), and a number of waveguides disposed within the adjustable arms (1105), in which the position of the adjustable arms (1105) are altered to accommodate different motherboard (104) configurations. |
| US09465178B2 |
Optical transceiver adapted to angled polish connector and a method to assemble the same
An optical transceiver adapted to an optical connector having an angled physical contact (APC) is disclosed. The optical transceiver installs an optical sub-assembly to receive an external connector. The optical sub-assembly provides an index surface that indexes the inclined direction of the end of the stub abutting against the end surface of the external connector of the type of the APC. The housing provides a saddle with a flat surface on which the index surface of the optical sub-assembly is set. |
| US09465177B2 |
Optical bench apparatus having integrated monitor photodetectors and method for monitoring optical power using same
Optical bench structure provides a platform for integrating optical transmitters, particularly Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Lasers (VCSELs), with monitor photodetectors. A substrate with photodetectors on the front side is aligned with flip-chip bonding bumps so the emission of the transmitters is aligned with the monitor photodetectors and passes through the monitor photodetectors with a portion of the transmitted light absorbed by the monitor photodetectors. The photodetectors have a thin absorption region so the percentage of light absorbed may be relatively small, providing sufficient photocurrent to monitor the transmitted power having a minimal effect on the transmitted power. Microlenses are integrated on the backside of the substrate focus, steer and/or collimate the emitted optical beams from the transmitters. The structure enables photodetectors to be integrated on the optical bench allowing the received optical power to be monitored. The receiver photodetectors are integrated on the optical bench alone and/or in combination with the transmitters. |
| US09465176B2 |
Small form factor transceiver compatible with solder processing
A fiber optic transceiver that is compatible with packaging into standard semiconductor packages and for SMT packaging, using materials and fabrication procedures that withstand solder assembly processes. The SMT package can have electrical contacts on the exterior of the package for creating electrical conduits to a substrate, such as a PCB, interposer, or circuit card within a larger assembly. The fiber optic transceiver can be of a non-SMT package configuration, being formed with electrical connection technology that allows direct connection to a substrate with electrical wiring, such as a PCB, interposer, or circuit card within a larger assembly. The fiber optic transceiver may have solderballs, metal posts or other electrical conduit technology that allows direct electrical connection to the substrate. |
| US09465170B1 |
Unitary multi-fiber optical ferrule with integrated lenses
A unitary multi-fiber ferrule has micro-holes for optical fibers, and a plurality of lenses disposed adjacent the front end, each of the plurality of lenses optically aligned with one of the micro-holes and exposed to air. Multiple rows of optical fibers and lenses may also be used in the unitary multi-fiber ferrule. The lenses have a divergence half angle of between about 2 and 20 degrees and may also have protrusions on them acting as an antireflective coating. |
| US09465169B2 |
Single shot correction of resonant optical components
An optical device is described. This optical device includes optical components having resonance wavelengths that match target values with a predefined accuracy (such as 0.1 nm) and with a predefined time stability (such as permanent or an infinite time stability) without thermal tuning and/or electronic tuning. The stable, accurate resonance wavelengths may be achieved using a wafer-scale, single (sub-second) shot trimming technique that permanently corrects the phase errors induced by material variations and fabrication inaccuracies in the optical components (and, more generally, resonant silicon-photonic optical components). In particular, the trimming technique may use photolithographic exposure of the optical components on the wafer in parallel, with time-modulation for each individual optical component based on active-element control. Note that the physical mechanism in the trimming technique may involve superficial room-temperature oxidation of the silicon surface, which is induced by deep-ultraviolet radiation in the presence of oxygen. |
| US09465164B2 |
Electronic apparatus, method for manufacturing electronic apparatus, and electronic device
Disclosed is an electronic apparatus including a circuit element including a first main surface, a first electrode provided in the first main surface, an optical element including a second main surface and being configured to either transmit or receive an optical signal, a second electrode provided in the second main surface, a window which is provided in the second main surface and through which the optical signal passes, a wiring layer provided on the first main surface and the second main surface, the wiring layer electrically connecting the first electrode and the second electrode, and an optical waveguide, which is provided on the second main surface and optically connected to the window, the optical signal passing through the optical waveguide. |
| US09465163B2 |
High-order-mode filter for semiconductor waveguides
A high-order-mode (HOM) filter for thick silicon waveguides has a shoulder slab, a waveguide ridge, a first filter ridge, and a second filter ridge. The first filter ridge and the second filter ridge help attenuate higher-order modes from the waveguide ridge while the waveguide ridge guides a fundamental mode. |
| US09465162B2 |
Packaging an arcuate planar lightwave circuit
A package for an arcuate planar lightwave circuit (PLC) chip includes a heater plate coupled to a base by a thick and soft support layer. The arcuate PLC is attached to the heater plate by soft adhesive. A hard adhesive is applied to a multi-waveguide end of the arcuate PLC, to additionally strengthen the attachment of the arcuate PLC to the heater plate. The structure allows the mechanical stress due to fiber pull/shock/vibration to be dissipated in the support layer without introducing large wavelength shifts in the arcuate PLC. The support layer also serves as a heat insulator, facilitating uniform heating of the arcuate PLC. |
| US09465160B2 |
Plasmonic interface and method of manufacturing thereof
A method of manufacturing a layered material stack that includes a plasmonic interface between a plasmonic material and optical waveguide material is disclosed. The method includes providing a substrate layer, disposing a layer of plasmonic material on the substrate layer, depositing a metal constituent of an optical waveguide material directly onto the layer of plasmonic material, and anodizing the metal constituent of the optical waveguide material to form an optically transparent oxide of the metal constituent configured to couple light into the layer of plasmonic material, with the optically transparent oxide of the metal constituent forming an optical waveguide structure. |
| US09465143B2 |
Lens optical element and display apparatus
A lens optical element including an on-chip lens with a convex surface formed at a top part of a column-shaped portion; and a light emitting surface disposed in a state where the light emitting surface is covered by a bottom portion of the column-shaped portion of the on-chip lens. The relationship between a lens height, which is defined as a height from the light emitting surface to a peak of the convex surface, a thickness of the column-shaped portion, and a refractive index of a structural material of the on-chip lens is set so that when the light emitting surface emits light, a state is produced where the convex surface of the on-chip lens appears to have uniform brightness. |
| US09465137B2 |
Optical couplers used in a downhole splitter assembly
Techniques and apparatus are provided for downhole sensing using optical couplers in a downhole splitter assembly to split interrogating light signals into multiple optical sensing branches. Each optical branch may then be coupled to an optical sensor (e.g., a pass-through or an optical single-ended transducer (OSET)) or to another optical coupler for additional branching. The sensors may be pressure/temperature (P/T) type transducers. Some systems may exclusively use OSETs as the optical sensors. In this manner, if one of the OSETs is damaged, it does not affect light traveling to any of the other sensors, and sensing information from remaining sensors is still returned. |
| US09465135B2 |
High energy X-ray inspection system using a fan-shaped beam and collimated backscatter detectors
This invention provides a scanning system for scanning an object in a scanning zone. The scanning system includes both a radiation source arranged to irradiate the object with radiation having a peak energy of at least 900 keV and a scatter detector arranged to detect radiation scattered from the object wherein the radiation source is arranged to irradiate the object over a plurality of regions to be scanned within a single irradiation event. The scatter detector includes a plurality of detection elements, each detection element being arranged to detect scattered radiation from a predefined part of the scanning zone and a signal processor arranged to calculate scatter intensity across the plurality of detector elements. |
| US09465134B2 |
Geomagnetic sensor
A geomagnetic sensor includes: a core that constitutes a closed magnetic circuit; a pair of coils that are wound around the core in positions facing each other and are connected in series to generate magnetic flux in the same circumferential direction in the core; an excitation power supply that applies an alternating current with a superimposed direct current to the pair of coils; and a detection circuit that is connected to a connection point of the pair of coils. Unlike a conventional flux gate type geomagnetic sensor, it is not required to excite the core until the core is magnetically saturated, and it is therefore possible to reduce power consumption. |
| US09465126B2 |
Seismic geophysical surveying
The present invention relates to an apparatus for use in geophysical surveying. Geophysical surveying typically involves stimulating an area of interest with a seismic source (204) and detecting the response in a sensor array. The application describes a fiber optic distributed sensing apparatus having a source (112) of electromagnetic radiation for repeatedly launching interrogating electromagnetic radiation into an optic fiber (104) deployed in said of area interest, a sampling detector (116) for sampling radiation back-scattered from the fiber; and a processor (108) arranged to process the back-scattered radiation to provide, for each of a plurality of longitudinal sensing portions of optic fiber, an indication of any incident acoustic signals affecting that sensing portion. The sampling detector is arranged to acquire a plurality of diversity samples for each said longitudinal sensing portion. The processor is configured process the diversity samples in diversity channels to determine a measurement signal indicative of any acoustic disturbance; correlate the measurement signal from each channel with a signal indicative of the seismic stimulus applied; and combine the correlated measurement signals to provide an overall measurement signal for the longitudinal sensing portion. The processor may apply a quality metric to the correlated data before performing the combination based on the quality metric. By correlating the individual diversity channels with the stimulus signal prior to performing the analysis of the measurement signal for a particular longitudinal section of optic fiber, the signal to noise ratio can be improved. |
| US09465123B2 |
Identifying orientation clusters from microseismic data
Systems, methods and software can be used for analyzing microseismic data from a subterranean zone. In some aspects, a plurality of basic planes are each defined from a subset of the microseismic data and each have an orientation relative to a common axis. Clusters of orientations of the basic planes are identified adaptively based on the extent of variation in the orientations. The number of orientations associated with each of the clusters is then identified. |
| US09465119B2 |
Gamma-ray spectrometer
An apparatus is described. The apparatus comprising a gamma-ray spectrometer arranged to receive gamma-rays from a calibration source, the gamma-ray spectrometer comprising: a scintillator material optically coupled to two or more photomultipliers, the two or more photomultipliers being arranged to detect photons generated in the scintillator material associated with gamma-ray interactions between the scintillator material and gamma-rays received from the calibration source, wherein the two or more photomultipliers are operable to output respective detection signals associated with the gamma-ray interactions; the apparatus further comprising: a switch coupled to receive the respective detection signals from the two or more photomultipliers and operable to select detection signals from one of the two or more photomultipliers; and a stabilization circuit coupled to the switch and operable to receive the selected detection signal of the respective photomultiplier and to stabilize the gain of the photomultiplier that output the selected detection signal based on the detection signals. |
| US09465118B2 |
Radiation detection system and method of analyzing an electrical pulse output by a radiation detector
A radiation detection system can include a photosensor to receive light from a scintillator via an input and to send an electrical pulse at an output in response to receiving the light. The radiation detection system can also include a pulse analyzer that can determine whether the electrical pulse corresponds to a neutron-induced pulse, based on a ratio of an integral of a particular portion of the electrical pulse to an integral of a combination of a decay portion and a rise portion of the electrical pulse. Each of the integrals can be integrated over time. In a particular embodiment, the pulse analyzer can be configured to compare the ratio with a predetermined value and to identify the electrical pulse as a neutron-induced pulse when the ratio is at least the predetermined value. |
| US09465114B2 |
Timed-based ephemeris identity in assistance data and assistance data request messages
A module (software or ASIC) for use in a serving mobile Location Center (SMLC) or a mobile station having a GPS receiver (or an A-GPS receiver) for determining an ITOW for a CNAV-1 signal. Also provided is a module for a mobile with GPS (or A-GPS receiver) so that the mobile can use the ITOW (either the ITOW provided with the CNAV-2, or that calculated for the CNAV-1) to uniquely identify ephemeris information in a request for assistance message. Also provided is a module for a SMLC by which the SMLC can use the IOD fields in the assistance data messages in a way that uniquely identifies the associated ephemeris information. |
| US09465112B2 |
Automatic range corrected flash ladar camera
A three dimensional imaging camera comprises a system controller, pulsed laser transmitter, receiving optics, an infrared focal plane array light detector, and an image processor. The described invention is capable of developing a complete 3-D scene from a single point of view. The 3-D imaging camera utilizes a pulsed laser transmitter capable of illuminating an entire scene with a single high power flash of light. The 3-D imaging camera employs a system controller to trigger a pulse of high intensity light from the pulsed laser transmitter, and counts the time from the start of the transmitter light pulse. The light reflected from the illuminated scene impinges on a receiving optics and is detected by a focal plane array optical detector. An image processor applies image enhancing algorithms to improve the image quality and develop object data for subjects in the field of view of the flash ladar imaging camera. |
| US09465111B2 |
Time-of-flight camera with signal path monitoring
A time-of-flight camera, having a time-of-flight sensor, which has at least one receiving pixel and is configured as a photomixing detector, having an illumination means, and having a modulator, which is connected to the time-of-flight sensor and to the illumination means, wherein a control sensor is arranged in the region of the illumination means such that at least some of the radiation emitted by the illumination means can be received by the control sensor is provided. |
| US09465107B2 |
Sonic-assisted localization of wireless devices
Wireless location identification systems, methods, and devices include a wireless device configured to transmit at least one sonic signal operating on at least one acoustic frequency and to receive at least one echo signal indicative of the at least one sonic signal being reflected by objects in a current location, an audio module configured to measure the received at least one echo signal and process the at least one echo signal to extract attributes of the echo signal and generate at least one echo profile characteristic; and logic configured to compare the at least one profile characteristic with previously-stored sonic characteristics that are correlated with pre-identified locations. The current location is then identified as a pre-identified location correlated to the previously-stored sonic characteristics that match the at least one profile characteristic. |
| US09465101B2 |
Aberration correction with broad transmit beams in medical ultrasound
Aberration estimation uses cross correlation of receive-focused transmit element data. A set of sequentially fired broad transmit beams insonify an object from different steering angles. Each transmit beam emanates from an actual or a virtual transmit element. For every firing, a receive beamformer forms a transmit element image of the insonified region by focusing the received signals. An estimator estimates aberration by cross correlating or comparing the transmit element images. Where a virtual transmit element is used, the virtual transmit element images are back propagated to an actual transmit element position before aberration estimation. The estimations are used to form corrected transmit element images which are then summed pre-detection to form a high-resolution synthetic transmit aperture. Alternatively, the estimations are used to improve conventional focused-transmit imaging. |
| US09465100B2 |
System and method for a directable countermeasure with divergent laser
A system includes a threat warning system and an countermeasure system. The threat warning system generates threat data that includes at least a threat coordinate value. The countermeasure system includes a wide-angle laser beam director and the infrared counter measure system receives the threat data including the threat coordinate value from the threat warning system and causes the beam director to direct a divergent laser beam based on the threat coordinate value. |
| US09465095B2 |
Robust location estimation
A method of collecting information for supplementing a trusted estimate of position. The method comprises: receiving first information sufficient to derive a trusted estimate of a first position; receiving an indication that a supplementary estimate of a second position in the vicinity of the first position may be required; in response to the indication, sensing information comprising the identity of at least one terrestrial wireless source observable in the vicinity of the first position; and storing the sensed information in association with the first position. The method enables the trusted estimate of the first position to subsequently be used to estimate any said second position from which the at least one wireless source is observable. |
| US09465090B2 |
Method of magnetic resonance-based temperature mapping
An MRI method (10) to map the temperature of a bodily tissue using measurements of the tissue density. |
| US09465088B2 |
Polarity insensitive hall effect sensor
Non-contact positions sensors are desirable because they have lower failure rates than traditional potentiometers. However, using a Hall Effect sensor as a non-contact position sensor requires a particular input polarity. In an embodiment, a polarity insensitive Hall Effect sensor includes conversion sensors configured to produce outputs responsive to an input. The sensor also includes a semiconductor rectifier arranged to power a first conversion sensor and a second conversion sensor with a given polarity regardless of whether the input has a positive or negative polarity. The sensor also includes a semiconductor multiplexer circuit arranged to direct the first output to a common output port if the input has a positive polarity and direct the second output to the common output port if the input has a negative polarity. The polarity insensitive Hall Effect sensor provides an output representing a position without requiring a input polarity. |
| US09465087B2 |
Hall effect sensor
The invention relates to a Hall effect sensor for recording the direction of a magnetic field, comprising a plurality of Hall effect sensor elements (10a, 10b) arranged in pairs, wherein each pair comprises a first Hall effect sensor element (10a) and a second Hall effect sensor element (10b) which are arranged parallel to one another. The Hall effect sensor has a first switch (34) for disconnecting the first Hall effect sensor element (10a) from a power supply (24). |
| US09465086B2 |
On-chip test technique for low drop-out regulators
A circuit and method is described for automatically testing multiple LDO regulator circuits on an integrated circuit chip independent of an ATE. Each LDO regulator is tested for voltage at a specified current output capability, wherein the output driver transistor is formed by at least two pass transistors, which are each tested for voltage output at a particular current capability. The test results are delivered back to the ATE and for a failed test, the gate voltage of the pass device can be observed through an analog multiplexer to enable debug. |
| US09465085B2 |
Test system and method for testing high-voltage technology
The present invention relates to a test system for high-voltage technology devices, in particular shunt reactors, as defined in the preamble of independent patent claim 1. The invention also relates to a method which can be carried out with this test system and is intended to test high-voltage technology devices according to coordinate patent claim 5. The general idea of the test system according to the invention is to provide a continuously adjustable inductance and a capacitance, which can be adjusted in discrete steps, on the secondary side of the test transformer in such a manner that said components form a series resonant circuit together with the test object in the form of an inductance. In the method which can be carried out with the test system according to the invention, a rough adjustment of the test system is carried out using the discretely adjustable capacitances of the capacitor bank by connecting individual capacitances of the capacitor bank via an iterative process if an undercapacitance is measured in the test system by means of a measuring device or by disconnecting individual capacitances if an overcapacitance is measured by means of the measuring device until a predefined threshold value of an overcapacitance prevails, with the result that fine tuning of the test system is then carried out by means of the continuously adjustable inductance in such a manner that said components form, together with the test object in the form of an inductance, a series resonant circuit which can be tuned to the point of resonance thereof. |
| US09465083B2 |
Voltage detecting device for assembled battery
In a voltage detecting device, a control unit turns on first switches and fifth switches corresponding to a plurality of unit batteries of an assembled battery to charge electric charge to first capacitors. The control unit simultaneously turns off at least one of the first switches or the fifth switches to hold the electric charge in the first capacitors. While selecting one of the unit batteries in a predetermined order as a target unit battery for voltage detection, the control unit temporarily turns off a fourth switch to reset electric charge of a second capacitor, and then turns of second switches and third switches in a state where one of the first switches and one of the fifth switches corresponding to the target unit battery are kept in an off state, thereby to detect a voltage of the target unit battery. |
| US09465074B2 |
System and method for measuring switching loss associated with semiconductor switching devices
A method according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, controlling a vehicle using switching loss information of a semiconductor switching device, the switching loss information derived from a conduction loss and a combined conduction and switching loss. |
| US09465067B2 |
Efficient method based on the electromagnetic time reversal to locate faults in power network
A time reversal process for determining a fault location in an electrical power network comprising multi-conductor lines, comprises measuring at an observation point located anywhere along one of the multi-conductor lines, for each of the conductors of the multi-conductor line, respectively a fault-originated electromagnetic transient signal; defining a set of guessed fault locations each having a different determined location in the electrical power network, and each of the guessed fault locations is attributed a same arbitrary fault impedance; defining a network model for the electrical power network, based on its topology and multi-conductor lines electrical parameters capable of reproducing in the network model the electromagnetic traveling waves; and computing for each conductor a time inversion of the measured fault-originated electromagnetic transients signal. The time reversal process method further comprises, as detailed herein, back-injecting a computed time inversion; calculating fault current signal energy; and identifying the fault location. |
| US09465065B2 |
Leakage current calculation device and method for calculating leakage current
Provided is a leakage current calculation device capable of calculating an accurate leakage current value in which the effect of noise has been suppressed. The configuration comprises: a to-ground voltage measurement means for measuring, over a predetermined interval, to-ground voltages inputted in each phase of a three-phase motor; a zero-phase current measurement means for measuring, over a predetermined interval, a zero-phase current, which is the to-ground leakage current that flows through the three-phase motor; a basic AC voltage waveform extraction means for extracting, from the to-ground voltage, a basic AC voltage waveform having a frequency in the same phase as the to-ground voltage of each phase; a frequency component extraction means for extracting, in the frequency band containing the frequency of the basic AC voltage waveform, a zero-phase current component of said frequency band; and a leakage current value calculation means for calculating the leakage current value I0 cos θ flowing through the to-ground resistance component, excluding the to-ground capacitance component of the three-phase motor, among the to-ground leakage currents by integrating the zero-phase current components of the frequency band in an interval corresponding to gap between zero-crossings of the basic AC voltage waveform. |
| US09465060B2 |
Apparatus and method for measuring temperature and electrical resistivity of a movable object
An apparatus for connecting an electrical measurement system, which includes at least a first and a second conductor, to a movable object to measure at least one of a temperature and an electrical resistivity of the movable object includes a first and a second connector, and a first and a second contact wire. The first and the second contact wires are electrically communicable with the first and the second conductors, respectively, and are wound around at least a portion of the first and the second connectors, respectively, such that the first and the second contact wires are engageable with the movable object at a first and a second contact point, respectively. The first and the second contact wires each has a polarity. The first and the second connectors are made of a material having a higher electrical and thermal resistivity than the first and the second contact wires. |
| US09465056B2 |
Current sensor with temperature-compensated magnetic tunnel junction bridge
A current sensor comprises a sensor bridge, with magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) elements, a MTJ temperature compensation resistor, and a current lead integrated onto a chip. The current lead is positioned close to the sensor bridge, and it is used to carry the test current. A permanent magnet is arranged at the periphery of the MTJ temperature compensation resistor. The permanent magnet rigidly aligns the magnetization direction of the free layer of the MTJ temperature compensation resistor anti-parallel to the magnetization direction of a pinning layer. The sensor bridge is connected in series with the MTJ temperature compensation resistor to temperature compensate the sensor bridge. A magnetic field generated by the test current produces an output voltage at the output of the temperature compensated sensor bridge that is proportional to the test current value. |
| US09465052B2 |
Systems and methods for monitoring fiber optic current sensing systems
A system is provided. The system includes a fiber optic current sensor, and a fiber optic current transducer optically coupled to the fiber optic current sensor and configured to receive polarized light from the fiber optic current sensor, generate an electrical signal from the polarized light, and isolate a direct current (DC) component of the electrical signal. The system further includes a monitoring circuit communicatively coupled to the fiber optic current transducer and configured to receive the DC component from the fiber optic current transducer, and generate an output signal based on the DC component, wherein the output signal is indicative of an operational state of the fiber optic current sensor and the fiber optic current transducer. |
| US09465050B2 |
Assembling method and maintaining method for vertical probe device
An assembling method for a vertical probe device includes steps of disposing a lower die on a jig by inserting supporting columns through jig holes of the lower die, fastening a positioning film on the supporting columns, installing probe needles and an upper die in a way that the positioning film is located between the upper and lower dies without contacting the upper die, unfastening the positioning film, and removing the jig so that the upper and lower dies, positioning film and probe needles constitute the device. A maintaining method for the device includes steps of inserting the supporting columns through the jig holes, fastening the positioning film to the jig, and removing the upper die. The probe needles and upper die are easily removed and installed and the probe needles are reliable. The vertical probe device is applicable for accommodating electronic components on the top thereof. |
| US09465049B2 |
Apparatus and method for electronic sample preparation
A method and apparatus for preparing electronic samples for a subsequent treatment, e.g., application of a failure analysis treatment. In one embodiment, an electronic device is mounted on a thermally controlled plate and a select temperature is applied thereto. While maintaining the select temperature applied to the thermally controlled plate, a sample preparation process is performed on the electronic device, such as, e.g., performing polishing, thinning, milling, lapping or extracting one or more semiconductor dies that form the electronic device. |
| US09465044B2 |
Angular velocity estimation using a magnetometer and accelerometer
A system and method for estimating angular velocity are provided. The system and method use an accelerometer and magnetometer to estimate an angular velocity in place of a gyroscope in 9-axis sensor fusion to estimate angular orientation. The final angular velocity estimate is constructed from two partially independent angular velocity estimates, one using only magnetometer measurements and the other using only accelerometer measurements. The unobservable portion of each partial angular velocity estimate is provided by a projection from a third complete estimate that uses both accelerometer and magnetometer data. |
| US09465043B2 |
Method for monitoring operation of a vehicle and graphically conveying G-force to a driver
A method for monitoring operation of a vehicle. The method includes the following: setting a gravitational force (g-force) threshold for operation of the vehicle; measuring a g-force onboard the vehicle; and conveying to an operator of the vehicle that operation of the vehicle has resulted in the measured g-force exceeding the g-force threshold. |
| US09465040B2 |
Method for profiling phytohormone levels in plant tissue
The present invention provides a method for profiling phytohormone levels in plant tissue or tissue of other plastid containing organisms, i.e. a method for the simultaneous determination of a multitude of phytohormone levels in plant tissue or tissue of other plastid containing organisms. |
| US09465035B2 |
Nanodiamond particle and method of manufacturing the same, and fluorescent molecular probe and method of analyzing structure of protein
A nanodiamond particle including an NV center having ODMR intensity enhanced, of which surface is modified with a functional group containing a heteroatom, is provided. This nanodiamond particle as being chemically modified can serve for a fluorescent molecular probe which can be made use of in a biological system. By tracking a rotational motion of the NV center included in this fluorescent molecular probe, structural change of a protein can be analyzed in real time. The functional group containing a heteroatom can be at least any functional group of a hydroxyl group and a hydroxyalkyl group, or a carboxyl group. |
| US09465033B2 |
Latex particles for agglutination assay
A latex particle for high-sensitive agglutination assay and a reagent for agglutination assay including the particle are provided. The latex particle barely initiates non-specific reactions and can readily prepare diagnostic agents. A latex particle for agglutination assay including a polymerizable monomer having a phenyl group, a polymerizable monomer having a phenyl group and a salt of sulfonic acid, and a polymerizable monomer represented by Formula (1): CH2═CR1—COO(CH2CH2O)n—R2 (1) where R1 represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group; R2 represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group; and n is 1≦n<20, wherein the density of functional groups derived from the polymerizable monomer represented by Formula (1) on the surface of the particle is 0.05 to 0.5 μmol/m2. |
| US09465032B2 |
Method of using antibody-liposome complexes for selecting a pool of molecules
The present disclosure relates to a method for selecting a pool of molecules comprising detecting if the pool of molecules has binding specificity to an agent. A method for selecting a pool of biological markers in or on a cell, a composition comprising a pool of molecules, a method for delivering a therapeutic agent, and a method for diagnosing a condition in a subject are also provided. |
| US09465030B2 |
Kit for diagnosing malignant melanoma
Provided is a kit for diagnosing at a high reproducibility, said kit being produced by preparing a monoclonal antibody against GPC3 and a monoclonal antibody against SPARC that are superior in quality stability to commercially available and commonly employed antibodies, and using these antibodies. |
| US09465027B2 |
Assays for detecting neutralizing autoantibodies to biologic therapy
The present invention provides assays for detecting and measuring the presence or level of neutralizing and non-neutralizing autoantibodies to biologics such as anti-TNFα drug therapeutics in a sample. The present invention is useful for monitoring the formation of neutralizing and/or non-neutralizing anti-drug antibodies over time while a subject is on biologic therapy. The present invention is also useful for predicting and/or determining the cross-reactivity of neutralizing anti-drug antibodies in a subject's sample with alternative biologic therapies. As such, the present invention provides information for guiding treatment decisions for those subjects receiving therapy with a biologic agent and improves the accuracy of optimizing therapy, reducing toxicity, and/or monitoring the efficacy of therapeutic treatment to biologic therapy. |
| US09465025B2 |
Stable neural stem cell lines
A systematic and efficient method for establishing stable neural stem cell lines and neuronal progenitor lines is described. The resulting cell lines provide robust, simple, and reproducible cultures of human and other mammalian neurons in commercially useful mass quantities while maintaining normal karyotypes and normal neuronal phenotypes. |
| US09465024B2 |
Measurement of biologically labile hydrogen sulfide pools
A method to measure all relevant biologic hydrogen sulfide pools, namely free hydrogen sulfide, acid-labile sulfide, and bound sulfane sulfur, has been developed. This new method involves selective liberation, trapping and derivatization of labile hydrogen sulfide. The total labile sulfide, including the contribution of the bound sulfane sulfur pool, the acid-labile pool, and free H2S, was measured by incubating the sample with a reducing agent, TCEP (Tris(2-carboxyethyl)phosphine hydrochloride), to reduce disulfide bonds in an acid solution. This method was used to measure the three sulfide pools in blood samples from mice and from humans. This method can be used for research, environmental, and clinical diagnostic purposes in determining hydrogen sulfide bioavailability in biological or other samples. |
| US09465020B2 |
Methods, apparatus and systems for measuring snow structure and stability
The present inventions relate generally to methods, apparatus and systems for measuring snow stability and structure which may be used to assess avalanche risk. The disclosed apparatus includes a sensing unit configured to sense a temperature of a layer of snow as the sensing unit is being driven into the layer of snow. The disclosed apparatus may also be configured to take other environmental measurements, including resistance to penetration, humidity, grain size, slope aspect and inclination. Methods and apparatus are also disclosed for generating a profile of snow layer temperature according to depth based on the sensed temperature. Systems and apparatus are also disclosed for sharing the generated profiles among a plurality of users via a central server, and for evaluating an avalanche risk at a geographic location. |
| US09465017B2 |
Method and device for preparing substances for qualitative and quantitative analyses
A method and a device for preparing a qualitative and quantitative analysis of samples are presented. The device affords the possibility of delimiting and isolating a specific region of a solid or liquid sample. A liquid, e.g. a solvent or extracting agent, is added in the delimited and isolated region. Thereafter the created mixture of substance and liquid is, in a plug-shaped fashion, pressed out of the closed region by means of a neutral liquid or the same liquid, and supplied to the measuring instrument in the form of a highly concentrated solution. |
| US09465016B2 |
Chromatographic system and method of isolating compound in sample using chromatographic system
A method is provided for isolating a compound in a sample by chromatography. The method includes determining an analytical gradient of an analytical system; performing an analytical run using the analytical gradient; identifying a target compound in the sample and determining an analytical retention time of the target compound using chromatographic results of the analytical run; determining an elution point of the target compound using the analytical retention time, the analytical gradient and characteristics of the analytical system; determining automatically a focusing gradient of a preparative system, including a slope segment; and performing a preparative run using the focusing gradient to separate the target compound from the sample. The slope segment includes a slope determining a concentration of solvent in a solvent mixture, which linearly increases from a first offset below the elution point of the target compound to a second offset above the elution point of the target compound. |
| US09465014B2 |
High sensitivity electrospray interface
The invention provides a sheath-flow interface for producing electrospray from a capillary. The electrospray generated by the interface can be used as the source of ions for mass spectrometry. Electrokinetic flow in the interface can move a sheath liquid past the end of a capillary so as to mix with an analyte effluent discharged from the capillary. The sheath liquid and analyte mixture can be directed to an electrospray emitter to generate an electrospray. |
| US09465013B2 |
Methods of detecting and identifying munitions compounds
HPLC methods for detecting, identifying and quantifying munitions compounds or munitions materials are disclosed. Insensitive munitions explosives (IMX) can be detected along with conventional munitions compounds such as 2,4,6-trinitrotolene (TNT) in a single column analysis. The methods are also useful to provide analytical evaluation of soil samples, aqueous samples such as ground water samples and tissue samples containing insensitive munitions explosives (IMX). |
| US09465010B2 |
Methods and systems to identify and manage recyclable materials
A method to identify and manage recyclable materials provides a recyclable material with a quartz crystal identification element configured to oscillate at a predetermined frequency associated with the recyclable material. A mobile device detects the oscillation frequency of the quartz crystal, identifies the recyclable material based on the detected oscillation frequency, and sends that information to a controller. |
| US09465009B2 |
Ultrasonic measuring device, ultrasonic image device, and method for processing ultrasonic image
An ultrasonic measuring device including: an ultrasonic transducer device; an emission unit for emitting an ultrasonic beam; a reception unit for receiving an ultrasonic echo reflected by a test subject; and a processing unit for processing reception, wherein the processing unit identifies a transfer function with respect to the ultrasonic transducer device and the test subject based on a first reception signal corresponding to an ultrasonic beam radiated to a first area in the test subject, a second reception signal corresponding to an ultrasonic beam radiated to a second area in the test subject, and a third reception signal corresponding to an ultrasonic beam radiated to a third area located between the first area and the second area in the test subject, and performs ultrasonic image generation processing including filter processing using a deconvolution filter including the transfer function performed on the reception signals. |
| US09465007B2 |
Nanosensor and method of manufacturing same
A nanosensor may include a substrate that has a hole formed therein, a first insulating layer that is disposed on the substrate and has a nanopore formed therein, first and second electrodes that are disposed on the first insulating layer and are spaced apart from each other, first and second electrode pads that are disposed on the first and second electrodes, respectively, and a protective layer disposed on the first and second electrode pads. A method of manufacturing a nanosensor may include forming a first insulating layer, graphene, and a metal layer on a substrate, patterning the metal layer and the graphene, forming a protective layer on a portion of the graphene and the metal layer, exposing a portion of the graphene by removing a portion of the protective layer, forming a hole in the substrate, and forming a nanopore in the first insulating layer and the graphene to be connected to the hole. |
| US09465006B2 |
Modulator monitoring during measuring electromobility
An apparatus for measuring information indicative of electromobility in a sample includes a light source for generating coherent light, a modulator that modulates the optical path length, particularly a reciprocatable modulator arranged for modulating a first part of the generated light, a sample cell for accommodating the measured sample for applying an electric field to the sample and for receiving a second part of the generated light for interaction with the sample in the electric field, a modulator monitor for monitoring the modulator by detecting interference between a first part of the light coming from the modulator and an unmodulated third part of the generated light, and a light detector arranged separately from the modulator monitor for detecting interference between a second part of light coming from the modulator and light received from the sample cell. The detected signal includes the information indicative of electromobility in the sample. |
| US09465004B2 |
Sensor device for sensing a gas, method for operating a sensor device for sensing a gas and production method for a sensor device for sensing a gas
A sensor device for sensing a gas includes a sensing region, and a readout region that is electrically and mechanically connected to the sensing region by way of a connecting web. The readout region, the sensing region, and the connecting web are formed from a substrate, and are isolated from the substrate by a clearance cutout. The sensing region has an ion-conducting region configured to provide a measuring signal dependent on the gas. The readout region (is configured to read out the measuring signal. |
| US09465003B2 |
Membrane phase electrode using printing and bio-molecule detection using same
A membrane electrode includes a novel sensor combining a filtering function of a membrane and a signal measuring ability of an electrode. A target material may be measured by filtration through the membrane. A small amount of target materials may be detected with high sensitivity using an amplified electrical signal by increasing electrical conductivity by reducing metal ions on the membrane, and thus the target material may be subject to quantitative analysis. In addition, only a target material selectively binding to a receptor may be filtrated by passing a sample through the membrane after a receptor material is fixed to the electrode, and thus may be used to detect an electrical signal. In addition, the sensor may measure a signal in various methods such as electrical conductivity, impedance, etc. |
| US09465000B1 |
System and method for electronically determining fluid parameters
A system and method for measuring at least one property of a fluid includes a housing for receiving the fluid, a first and second spaced electrodes positioned in the housing, and an impedance modifier positioned between the first and second electrodes that changes an electrical impedance of the fluid between the electrodes. Electronic circuitry generates different waveform voltages across the electrodes and the fluid, monitors an output thereof to thereby obtain data related to impedance of the fluid for each waveform voltage; and combines data related to the outputs to create a unique identification signature for the fluid. Once signatures for known fluids have been created, they can be compared to a generated signature of an unknown fluid to identify the unknown fluid. |
| US09464997B2 |
Methods and apparatuses for measuring effective atomic number of an object
Methods and apparatuses for measuring an effective atomic number of an object are disclosed. The apparatus includes: a ray source configured to product a first X-ray beam having a first energy and a second X-ray beam having a second energy; a Cherenkov detector configured to receive the first X-ray beam and the second X-ray beam that pass through an object under detection, and to generate a first detection value and a second detection value; and a data processing device configured to obtain an effective atomic number of the object based on the first detection value and the second detection value. The Cherenkov detector can eliminate disturbance of X-rays below certain energy threshold with respect to the object identification, and thus accuracy can be improved for object identification. |
| US09464995B2 |
FIB-SEM array tomography
Methods and devices for magnified imaging of three-dimensional samples are disclosed. The methods include imaging sample sections of a sample section series using a first particle-optical device. Coordinates of the imaged sample point are acquired and stored in such a way that the coordinates of the imaged sample point can be associated with the respective image of this sample point. The method also includes selecting a volume of interest (VOI), and transmitting the coordinates of the selected VOI to a second particle-optical device. In addition, the method includes imaging the selected VOI by means of the second particle-optical device. A plurality of planes of a sample section are imaged in order to obtain a 3D image of the selected VOI. |
| US09464992B2 |
Automated wafer defect inspection system and a process of performing such inspection
An automated defect inspection system has been invented and is used on patterned wafers, whole wafers, broken wafers, partial wafers, sawn wafers such as on film frames, JEDEC trays, Auer boats, die in gel or waffle packs, MCMs, etc., and is specifically intended and designed for second optical wafer inspection for such defects as metalization defects (such as scratches, voids, corrosion, and bridging), diffusion defects, passivation layer defects, scribing defects, glassivation defects, chips and cracks from sawing, solder bump defects, and bond pad area defects. |
| US09464991B2 |
Method for inspecting polysilicon layer
A method for inspecting a polysilicon layer includes: radiating excitation light to the polysilicon layer; and detecting a photoluminescence signal generated by the excitation light, wherein average power of the excitation light has a range of 1 W/cm2 to 10 W/cm2, and peak power of the excitation light has a range of 100 W/cm2 to 1000 W/cm2. |
| US09464990B2 |
Centimeter-scale high resolution metrology of entire CVD grown graphene sheets
A method for quick and easy identification of layer thickness and uniformity of entire large-area graphene samples on arbitrary substrates utilizing fluorescence quenching microscopy in which a polymer mixed with fluorescent dye is applied onto the graphene, then viewing the sample under a fluorescence microscope. A large-scale, high-resolution montage image of the sample is obtained for histogram-based segmentation based on contrast relative to the substrates. |
| US09464989B2 |
Stack gas measurement device and method thereof
A gas sampling device includes an analysis block defining a first portion of a chamber and a dilution block defining a second portion of the chamber. The sampling device includes an exhaust gas orifice at the first portion for withdrawing gas from the chamber in response to an applied suction, a sample gas orifice at the second portion to modify passage of a sample gas entering the chamber in response to the suction, and a dilution gas orifice at the second portion to modify passage of a dilution gas entering the chamber in response to the suction. |
| US09464988B2 |
Surface plasmon resonance fluorescence measurement device and surface plasmon resonance fluorescence measurement method
A surface plasmon resonance fluorescence analysis device emits a light beam to a prism in which a metal film is formed on a prescribed surface while changing an angle of incidence relative to the metal film in a state in which the light beam is totally reflected, measures light generated on a surface of the metal film, determines an angle at which the light beam enters the metal film based on a change in intensity of the measured light, adjusts the emitting direction of the light beam so that the light beam enters the metal film at the determined angle of incidence, and measures fluorescence generated on the surface of the metal film in a state in which the light beam is emitted the adjusted direction. |
| US09464987B2 |
Device and system for monitoring the sludge level in a septic tank system
A device and system for monitoring the sludge level in a septic system tank, wherein a plurality of monitoring devices are positioned within a septic tank being monitored. Each monitoring device preferably includes a base unit, and a probe arm extending down from the base unit into the septic tank, wherein each probe arm includes a light emitting diode arm and a dark sensor photocell arm. |
| US09464980B2 |
Turf testing apparatus and methods
Improved apparatuses and methods for testing turf or other surfaces, in one embodiment, a turf testing apparatus includes two actuators for moving a shoe relative to a turf surface. The first actuator moves the shoe along a substantially horizontal axis and the second actuator moves the shoe along a substantially vertical axis. |
| US09464974B2 |
In situ heat induced antigen recovery and staining apparatus and method
An automated in situ heat induced antigen recovery and staining method and apparatus for treating a plurality of microscope slides. The process of heat induced antigen recovery and the process of staining the biological sample on the microscope slide are conducted in the same apparatus, wherein the microscope slides do not need to be physically removed from one apparatus to another. Each treatment step occurs within the same reaction compartment. The reaction conditions of each reaction compartment for treating a slide can preferably be controlled independently, including the individualized application of reagents to each slide and the individualized treatment of each slide. |
| US09464972B2 |
Apparatus and procedure for in vitro measurement of a substance, nicotine, released from a smokeless tobacco product
An apparatus (100) and method for measuring an extract (1000) released from a product sample (330) in vitro. The apparatus (100) comprising an in vitro environment which simulates an in vivo environment. The apparatus (100) contains a product sample (330) with the product sample (330) exposed to the in vitro environment. An extract (1000) is produced from the product sample (330) when the product sample (330) is subjected to the in vitro environment. The extract (1000) is analyzed to determine the amount of at least one element in the extract and the rate of release of at least one element in the product sample (330). The product sample is a smokeless tobacco product. An element analyzed for is nicotine. |
| US09464971B2 |
Clearing agent and mounting medium for microscopy
A clearing agent and mounting solution for microscopy is disclosed comprising (a) trichloroethanol, (b) optionally, trichloroacetic acid, (c) optionally, glycerol and (d) optionally, water, where the refractive index of the solution is greater than or equal to about 1.3810. The solution can further comprise a C1-C6 alcohol, other acids, and/or a stain. The solution can also comprise derivatives and/or analogs of 2,2,2-trichloroethanol and/or trichloroacetic acid. Also disclosed is a method of preparing specimens for microscopy comprising (a) applying a specimen to a microscope slide or a cuvette, (b) applying a quantity of the above solution sufficient to mount the specimen, and (c) optionally applying a cover slip. The solution can be used effectively with stains or dyes, and with fresh, partially dry or dried materials, and for temporary or semi-permanent to permanent mounting. The solution can be used with specimens or tissues/cells/parts originating from animals, poultry, livestock, humans, higher plants, yeasts, molds, microorganisms, insects, mites, or reptiles. |
| US09464970B2 |
Method for staining a histological sample, and automated stainer
The invention relates inter alia to an automated stainer for staining, in particular for hemalum-eosin (HE) staining, of a histological sample, the automated stainer exposing the sample to the action of at least one stain using at least one staining parameter. The automated stainer is notable for the fact that the automated stainer comprises an input means with which a staining parameter is definable, in particular is inputtable or is selectable from a plurality of possible staining parameters; and that a control apparatus is present which, upon application of the defined staining parameter, ascertains the prospectively expectable outcome of an action and displays it to the user with a display apparatus, before the automated stainer actually stains the sample. |
| US09464967B2 |
Microtomic system and process utilizing electrostatic force to handle sample sections
Provided is a microtomic system and process for the preparation of sections for microscope examination. A cutting edge in the system can cut through a sample block and produce a section one end of which remains attached to the cutting edge. A voltage generator can generate a voltage and apply the voltage between the cutting edge and a section receiver such as a semiconductor chip grid. Through electrostatic force caused by the voltage, another end of the section can anchor to the section receiver. The section is then spread on the receiver. The system is automatable, highly efficient, and does not need liquid to float sample sections, and can therefore maintain the integration of the sample sections. |
| US09464965B2 |
Method for creating non-inserted artificial disbonds or delaminations for nondestructive inspection test standards
A method for creation of a non-destructive inspection (NDI) standard employs a coupon of bonded layers or a composite structure having a predetermined thickness. A predetermined pulse width is defined. The coupon and a laser source are positioned with respect to one another and the laser source is used to create a laser pulse having the predetermined pulse width to create a disbond or delamination in the bond layer at a predetermined location. The coupon may then be used as a standard for calibration of NDI inspection tools by scanning the coupon with the tool to provide an inspection output. The output is then examined to confirm that the disbond or delamination in the coupon is properly identified in the output. |
| US09464963B2 |
Impact detection device on a fork of a vehicle
A method for positioning an impact detection device on a fork of a vehicle supporting a wheel of the vehicle, in which the fork has a right-hand rod-shaped member and a left-hand rod-shaped member is described. The impact detection device has at least one first sensor unit associated with the right-hand rod-shaped member and a second sensor unit associated with the left-hand rod-shaped member. The second sensor unit is mounted inverted or rotated by an angle of 180 degrees around a steering axis of the wheel. |
| US09464961B2 |
Inspection probe, vibration state inspection system, and method of inspecting vibration state
An inspection probe includes a vibration transmission portion transmitting an ultrasonic vibration along a longitudinal axis, and a vibration damping portion continuous with a distal direction side of the vibration transmission portion. the vibration damping portion damps the ultrasonic vibration by causing vibration energy of the ultrasonic vibration to be lost and converting the lost vibration energy to heat energy in a state that the vibration damping portion vibrates in a manner to follow the vibration transmission portion. An index section of the inspection probe serves as an index indicating a conversion amount to the heat energy in the vibration damping portion. |
| US09464958B2 |
Dynamic center of gravity determination
A computer-implemented method for determining center of gravity of a tiltrotor aircraft includes storing a multi-dimensional matrix mapping multiple tiltrotor aircraft parameters to a plurality of three-dimensional (3D) centers of gravity of the tiltrotor aircraft, where each 3D center of gravity includes a respective longitudinal center of gravity, lateral center of gravity, and vertical center of gravity. The method includes receiving input signals from corresponding on-board sensors, where the input signals represent characteristics of the tiltrotor aircraft, determining tiltrotor aircraft parameters from the input signals, identifying, from the multi-dimensional matrix mapping, a longitudinal center of gravity, a lateral center of gravity, and a vertical center of gravity that corresponds to the determined tiltrotor aircraft parameters, and providing the identified longitudinal center of gravity, the identified lateral center of gravity, and the identified vertical center of gravity in response to receiving the input signals. |
| US09464956B2 |
Internal combustion engine and straddle-type vehicle equipped with the engine
In a single-cylinder internal combustion engine fitted with a knock sensor, a temperature increase of the knock sensor is suppressed and prevented, and the reliability of the knock sensor is improved. The engine includes a crankcase, a cylinder block connected to the crankcase, a cylinder head connected to the cylinder block, a sensor mounting boss provided on the cylinder block, and a knock sensor mounted to the boss. Fins are provided on the cylinder block and the cylinder head. A heat insulation member is provided between the boss and the knock sensor. |
| US09464954B2 |
Torque sensor
Provided is a torque sensor. The torque sensor comprises a rotor section; and a stator section comprising a stator holder, wherein the stator holder comprises a plurality of coupling pieces protruding in an axial direction, and a hog ring coupled to pass through the plurality of coupling pieces, wherein the plurality of coupling pieces have through-holes formed in a circumferential direction and an inner wall of the through-hole is adhered to the hog ring. |
| US09464951B2 |
Method and apparatus for electrical gap setting for a piezoelectric pressure sensor
A method for electrically setting a gap for a piezoelectric pressure sensor. The method includes positioning a piezoelectric flex element on a tray; attaching a voltage source to the piezoelectric flex element of a piezoelectric pressure sensor; applying a voltage from the voltage source to the piezoelectric flex element; curing an adhesive between the piezoelectric flex element and the tray while the piezoelectric flex element is deflected by the voltage; and stopping the voltage from the voltage source to the piezoelectric flex element when the adhesive has been cured. |
| US09464950B2 |
Capacitive pressure sensors for high temperature applications
A capacitive pressure sensor includes a substrate wafer and a diaphragm wafer. The substrate wafer defines a substrate recess with a first recess. The diaphragm wafer defines a diaphragm recess with a second recess. The diaphragm wafer is bonded to the substrate wafer such that the substrate and diaphragm recesses form a height differentiated pressure chamber. |
| US09464947B2 |
Cryogenic temperature measuring resistor element
Provided is a cryogenic temperature measuring resistor element including a metallic temperature measuring resistor wire, an electric insulator made of a polycrystalline ceramic material, and a filler filled between the electric insulator and the temperature measuring resistor wire. The filler includes polycrystalline inorganic electric insulating powder, particles of the insulating powder being connected by glass. The glass has a lower softening point than respective melting points of the inorganic electric insulating powder, the temperature measuring resistor wire, and the electric insulator. |
| US09464946B2 |
Method, system, and apparatus to prevent arc faults in electrical conduits
A method, apparatus, and system for protection from fires and electrical shock of components used in construction of electrical conduits is disclosed using non-electrical means to disrupt flow of electricity before an arc fault, with the purpose to disrupt flow of current before risk of arcing. The purpose of this invention is to remove the hazard before an electrical arc occurs. |
| US09464945B2 |
Probe sensor capable of measurement for temperature with stimulus
A probe sensor has a probe structure having a probe body inserted into an experiment subject, a block body disposed on the probe body to transmit or reflect an incident light, and a light irradiation body for inputting a first incident light to the block body; a first light source for generating the first incident light and transmitting to the light irradiation body; and a light analyzer for analyzing a first reflection light which is a reflection light of the first incident light reflected by the block body, wherein the length of the block body changes according to a temperature change, and wherein the light analyzer measures a temperature change of the experiment subject by detecting a wavelength change of the first reflection light according to the length change of the block body. |
| US09464944B2 |
Temperature range compliance indicator
An indicator or display that may be in the form of a label that can instantaneously provide confirmation that a product is in a good preservation state by making a simple visual check, and particularly to detect if the product temporarily went outside a determined temperature range and to memorize this event. Strict monitoring of a temperature range is essential to be able to guarantee quality of many products. The indicator or display may be applicable to any product or device for which the temperature has to be monitored between two thresholds. |
| US09464940B2 |
Body temperature measuring device
A body temperature measuring device includes a main body, a probe, and a control mechanism. The main body includes a holding part, and an abutting surface arranged at a side of the holding part. The probe is affixed to the main body in a movable manner The probe includes a probe main body, and a fixing structure arranged on the probe main body for fixing a probe cover. The probe cover has a bottom edge. The control mechanism is coupled to the probe for controlling the probe moving between a first position and a second position. Wherein when the probe is at the first position, the probe cover is able to be fixed on the probe; and when the probe moves away from the first position, the abutting surface presses the bottom edge of the probe cover for detaching the probe cover from the probe. |
| US09464937B2 |
Method and device for differential optical phase modulation in quantum key distribution system
A transmitting apparatus in a quantum key distribution system, includes: an optical interferometer to receive a single-photon pulse inputted from a light source and to provide two optical paths with a predetermined path difference, the two optical paths used for the single-photon pulse to pass through the optical interferometer; and an optical phase modulator to perform a temporal differential phase modulation of the single-photon pulse which has passed through the optical interferometer, wherein the single-photon pulse, after passing through the optical interferometer, has a probability distribution divided into two separate regions in time domain. |
| US09464936B2 |
Plasma processing apparatus and analyzing apparatus
An etching apparatus calculates an emission intensity in the vicinity of each of a plurality of wavelengths, at which a specified element should emit light, from information indicating light emission measured by an optical emission spectroscope during etching processing and, if it is determined that the calculated emission intensity information and emission intensity information stored in a storage unit are similar, extracts a wavelength, corresponding to the calculated emission intensity, with the wavelength associated with the element. |
| US09464934B2 |
System and method for correcting spectral response using a radiometric correction filter
The present disclosure provides for a correction filter that may be configured to comprise a predetermined arrangement of thin film layers. This arrangement of thin film layers may be such that it effectively enables a correction filter to generate a predetermined spectral response, wherein said predetermined spectral response is substantially the same as a determined instrument response correction associated with an instrument. The invention of the present disclosure therefore provides for effectively compensating for transmission inefficiencies associated with an instrument without the need for separate reference measurements to determine and correct for instrument response. |
| US09464933B1 |
Near-field terahertz imager
The present disclosure concerns a high frequency imager including a pixel matrix, each pixel including a high frequency oscillator, a transmission line positioned at a distance from an active surface of the imager smaller than the operating wavelength of the oscillator, a first end of the line being coupled to the oscillator, and a read circuit coupled to a second end of the line. |
| US09464929B2 |
Liquid level transducer with pivoting and linear motion
A liquid level transducer includes a mounting head for connection to the wall of a tank and a housing extending into the tank from the mounting head. A float rod is pivotally connected to the housing and a float is connected to the float rod for pivotal movement upon a change of liquid level in the tank. A proximal end of the float rod is connected to an actuator portion and constrained for pivotal movement about two parallel axes so that the actuator portion moves in a linear direction with respect to the housing. The interior of the housing includes a sensor assembly responsive to the linear movement of the actuator portion to thereby determine the level of liquid within the tank. |
| US09464927B2 |
Magnetic flowmeter flowtube with process fluid venting assembly
A magnetic flowmeter flowtube assembly includes a conduit having an inside diameter, a fluoropolymer liner disposed within and extending through the conduit, and a pair of electrodes mounted relative to the liner to measure a voltage induced within a process fluid flowing through the liner. A venting assembly provides a process fluid vent path from the inside diameter of the conduit to an exterior of the flowtube assembly. |
| US09464926B2 |
Magnetic flowmeter flowtube assembly with spring-energized seal rings
A magnetic flowmeter flowtube assembly includes a conduit with a first end and a second end. A first neck flange is coupled to the first end of the conduit and has an inside diameter with a first notch extending radially outwardly therefrom. A second neck flange is coupled to the second end and has an inside diameter with a second notch extending radially outwardly therefrom. A fluoropolymer liner is disposed within and extends through the first neck flange, the conduit and the second neck flange. A pair of electrodes is mounted relative to the liner to measure a voltage induced within a process fluid flowing through the liner. A first spring-energized seal ring is disposed in the first notch and a second spring-energized seal ring disposed in the second notch. A method of sealing a magnetic flowmeter having a fluoropolymer liner is also provided. |
| US09464924B2 |
Scale, displacement detection apparatus, lens apparatus, image pickup system, and assembling apparatus
A scale is used in a displacement detection apparatus (100) which detects a position of an object, the scale includes a pattern periodically formed in a measurement direction (an X direction), and the pattern is configured so as to change a physical property in a direction (a Y direction) perpendicular to the measurement direction without changing phase information in the measurement direction when a detector reading the pattern moves relative to the pattern in the direction perpendicular to the measurement direction. |
| US09464923B2 |
Encoder sensor mounting body, drum disk encoder, and motor with encoder using same
In order to make it possible to be readily attachable and detachable with respect to a motor and capable of realizing a lead-free encoder sensor mounting body, an encoder sensor is detachably or fixedly attached on a base, the base being pressedly in contact with an electrode terminal of the motor and including a pressing contact part that is electrically connected to a power line, and thus the base is detachably fixed to an end surface of the motor by a pressing force of the pressing contact part. |
| US09464920B2 |
Sensing apparatus for measuring position of touch object by electromagnetic induction and method for controlling the same
An electromagnetic sensing apparatus for measuring the position of a touch object by electromagnetic induction and a method for controlling the same are provided. The apparatus includes a loop unit including first and second sub-loop units for alternately receiving current and sensing an electromagnetic change; and a controller for controlling the first sub-loop unit to alternate between receiving the current and sensing the electromagnetic change in every one of a predetermined time period and controlling the second sub-loop unit to alternate between receiving the current and sensing the electromagnetic change in every predetermined time period, alternately with the first sub-loop unit. |
| US09464919B2 |
Magnetic position detecting apparatus
With magnetic poles of a magnetic scale each having a length in the moving direction of T, a magnetic field sensing part has m element lines (m≧2) each including n magnetic sensors (n≧2) as the magnetic sensors corresponding to one of the magnetic poles. The n magnetic sensors included in one of the element lines are arranged at a constant pitch of λ(λ=T/n). Each of the magnetic sensors included in the second or further element line is placed shifted by λ/m in the moving direction of the opposite magnetic pole from each of the magnetic sensors included in the previous element line. |
| US09464917B2 |
Method and system of reading utility meter data over a network
A utility meter may be read by sending a request to read the meter from a meter reading application, which may be located on a utility server or on an access point to a network, to a communications module associated with the utility meter. The communications module initiates a session with the utility meter, makes requests for data from the associated utility meter, receives the responses to requests for data from the utility meter, and terminates the session after receiving all the requested data from the meter. It then formats the responses with the data received from the utility meter, and transmits the formatted response to the meter reading application. |
| US09464916B2 |
Method of calibrating an inertial assembly comprising a dynamic phase between two static phases
A method of calibrating an inertial unit is provided. During a first static stage, in which the inertial unit is in a first orientation, measurements are taken by means of the accelerometers and the inertial rotation sensors. During a dynamic stage, the orientation of the inertial unit is changed, at least in part in azimuth, from the first orientation towards a second orientation, while taking measurements by means of the inertial rotation sensors. During a second static stage, in which the inertial unit is in the second position, measurements are taken by means of the accelerometers and of the inertial rotation sensors. For each static stage, a direction, an amplitude, and a mean speed of rotation for apparent gravity in an inertial frame of reference is estimated, variation is calculated in orientation between the static stages, and the accelerometer biases is deduced therefrom. |
| US09464915B1 |
Route stabilization scrolling mode
An approach for a route stabilization scrolling mode is provided. The approach displays a map window, wherein the map window includes a visible region of a map, the map including a plotted route originating at a source location and ending at a destination location. The approach receives one or more swipe gestures within the map window. The approach determines whether the one or more swipe gestures exceeds an escape velocity threshold. Responsive to a determination that the one or more swipe gestures exceeds the level of intensity to progress the map window into an area of the map away from the plotted route, the approach generates one or more custom pegs, wherein the one or more custom pegs is a compressed snapshot of a last position on the plotted route prior to exceeding the escape velocity threshold. |
| US09464913B2 |
Assistive vehicular guidance system and method
An assistive vehicular guidance system for locating a spotter vehicle in a target location near a target machine. The guidance system has a positioning system including global positioning sensors on the spotter vehicle and target machine, and user interfaces providing visual and/or auditory cues. An assist module includes long-range and short-range network radios and an analyzer. The analyzer interfaces with the global positioning sensors, the long-range and short-range network radios, and the user interfaces, planning a path for the spotter vehicle and providing cues in guiding the spotter vehicle along the path to the target location. A communications system includes short-range and long-range networks, the short-range network connecting the short-range network radios of the spotter vehicle and the target machine. The long-range network includes a VPN and server, connecting the long-range radios of the spotter vehicle and target machine with the server via the VPN. |
| US09464912B1 |
Binaural navigation cues
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for providing binaural navigational cures. In one aspect, a method includes presenting audio media in a non-directional playback state that presents the audible media in an original format, iteratively determining a navigational heading relative to a current navigational course, the navigational heading indicative of a direction to face to proceed along a navigational route, and for each iteration, determining whether a change is required to the current navigational course based on the navigational heading. For each determination that a change is not required to the current navigational course, presenting the audio media in the non-directional playback state, and for each determination that a change is required to the current navigational course, changing the non-directional playback state to a directional playback state that presents the audible media in a modified format that is directional from the navigational heading. |
| US09464911B2 |
Vehicle and method of controlling the same
A vehicle is provided in which, when an estimated driving time for a destination set by a user exceeds a predetermined time, a stop at which the user can take a break when the predetermined time elapses after driving starts is searched for, and information on the stop is provided so that the user may be prompted to take a break during long-term driving. The vehicle includes an input unit for receiving information on destination setting from a user, a controller for generating a driving path from a departure position to the set destination and search for a stop candidate that is located on the driving path or a location adjacent to the driving path when an estimated driving time for the driving path is a predetermined first reference time or more, and a display unit configured to display a guide popup related to the searched stop candidate. |
| US09464910B2 |
Navigation system with web interface
A user can selectively download complete databases of selected favorite chains (or other selected destinations or collections of destinations) from a server and store them on a portable media device. The user can also create his own address book with locations that he selects. The user can also create trip plans, containing locations selected by the user that are associated with specific trips. The address books and trip plans can also be stored on the portable media device. The user can then access the portable media device with the navigation system to select destinations stored there. The destinations are both more efficiently accessible by the user and more up to date, since the information on the server can be updated more frequently. |
| US09464909B2 |
Apparatus, system and method for clustering points of interest in a navigation system
A navigation system, apparatus and method utilizing a processor and a sensor, operatively coupled to the processor to determine a location of the navigation system. A navigation input module is configured to receive destination data specifying a destination and a plurality of point-of-interest (POI) data from a user, where the navigation input module is further configured to receive a POI search area value defining an area of search for the POI data from potential route segments. The processor may utilize the POI search area value to search a plurality of areas along the potential route segments to identify at least some of the plurality of POI data that are in closest proximity to the destination, and wherein the processor may be further configured to cluster the identified POI data for simultaneous presentation on a navigational map. |
| US09464907B1 |
Dynamically establishing a temporary safe route via a network of unmanned vehicles
Dynamically establishing a temporary safe evacuation route away from an unsafe situation using unmanned vehicles. The temporary safe evacuation route is determined based on real-time information regarding the unsafe situation. A network of unmanned vehicles are deployed and positioned at determined points along the safe evacuation route. Guidance is provided to the network of unmanned vehicles for display along the safe evacuation route by the unmanned vehicle to aid people in evacuating from the unsafe situation. Information in real time regarding the unsafe situation may be received from the unmanned vehicles. Based on the information received, the safe evacuation route may be adjusted. |
| US09464890B2 |
Dynamic data acquisition, and apparatus and methods therefor
A dynamic data acquisition system is disclosed for continuously recording, measuring and analyzing test cycle data of dimensional changes of a work piece before, during and after climatic changes. An optional climate chamber with an environmentally encapsulated camera system may be used to control the climate during the test cycle. A method of operating the dynamic data acquisition system is disclosed, as well as a business method for the new business model created by utilizing the system. |
| US09464887B2 |
Illuminated hitch angle detection component
A lighting system for a trailer assembly is provided herein. The lighting system includes a hitch angle detection component having a predefined pattern thereon. A light source is disposed within the hitch angle detection component. A photoluminescent structure is disposed on the light source. The photoluminescent structure is configured to luminesce in response to excitation by light output from at least a portion of the light source. |
| US09464886B2 |
Luminescent hitch angle detection component
A lighting system for a trailer is provided herein. The lighting system may include a hitch angle detection component disposed on the trailer. A light source is disposed on the vehicle. A photoluminescent structure is disposed on the hitch angle detection component and configured to luminesce in response to excitation by the light source. The hitch angle detection component may further include a predetermined image pattern of a certain size and shape provided on the top surface thereof for capture by an imaging device and recognition by an image processing unit. |
| US09464885B2 |
System and method for package dimensioning
A system and method for package dimensioning is provided. The package-dimensioning system includes an image capturing subsystem for acquiring information about an object within the image-capturing subsystem's field of view. A features-computation module analyzes object information and compiles a feature set describing the object's surface features. A classification module analyzes the feature set and categorizes the object's shape. A shape-estimation module estimates the dimensions of the object. |
| US09464882B2 |
Interferometer with continuously varying path length measured in wavelengths to the reference mirror
An interferometer in which the path length of the reference beam, measured in wavelengths, is continuously changing in sinusoidal fashion and the interference signal created by combining the measurement beam and the reference beam is processed in real time to obtain the physical distance along the measurement beam between the measured surface and a spatial reference frame such as the beam splitter. The processing involves analyzing the Fourier series of the intensity signal at one or more optical detectors in real time and using the time-domain multi-frequency harmonic signals to extract the phase information independently at each pixel position of one or more optical detectors and converting the phase information to distance information. |
| US09464878B1 |
Three-dimensional coordinate measuring machine
A three-dimensional coordinate measuring machine includes a base, a moving mechanism provided on the base, and a probe moved by the moving mechanism, the three-dimensional coordinate measuring machine measures coordinates of a surface position of an object to be measured by using the probe, the moving mechanism includes: a linear guide using a mechanical bearing; and an air bearing mechanism provided in parallel to the linear guide, one of ends of the moving part is attached to a linear moving unit that moves by the linear guide and the other is attached to the air moving part so that the other end can swing with respect to the air moving part, and the air bearing mechanism absorbs a difference in the height change between the linear guide and the air bearing mechanism by the air bearing. |
| US09464876B2 |
Trajectory modification of a spinning projectile by controlling the roll orientation of a decoupled portion of the projectile that has actuated aerodynamic surfaces
An apparatus and system for controlling the trajectory of a projectile having two rotationally decoupled sections, wherein the first section is rotationally decoupled from the second section. The first section of the projectile contains a navigation system. The first section also contains an actuator by which aero-control surfaces on the second section are actuated. The second section may have external aero-spin surfaces which provide a torque counter to the rotation of the base projectile. The apparatus and system also includes embodiments having applications for nose sections of projectiles. |
| US09464875B2 |
Double safety firing system for initiators
A double safety firing system comprises: a firing line, wherein an end of the firing line is directly or operatively connected to an electrically-activated initiator; a first safety sub-assembly, wherein the first safety sub-assembly is connected to the firing line and comprises: a first shunting line; and a first shunt disabler, wherein the first shunt disabler disables the first shunting line when a predetermined amount of force is applied to the first shunt disabler; and a second safety sub-assembly, wherein the second safety sub-assembly is connected to the firing line and comprises: a second shunting line; and a second shunt disabler, wherein the second shunt disabler disables the second shunting line when a predetermined amount of electric current is applied to the second shunt disabler, wherein after the first and second shunting lines are disabled, electric current flows through the firing line and activates the initiator. |
| US09464874B1 |
Layered energetic material having multiple ignition points
An energetic material having thin, alternating layers of metal oxide and reducing metal is provided. The energetic material may be provided in the form of a sheet, foil, cylinder, or other convenient structure. A method of making the energetic material resists the formation of oxide on the surface of the reducing metal, allowing the use of multiple thin layers of metal oxide and reducing metal for maximum contact between the reactants, without significant lost volume due to oxide formation. An ignition system for the energetic material includes multiple ignition points, as well as a means for controlling the timing and sequence of activation of the individual ignition points. The combination of the energetic material and ignition system provides a means of charge and blast shaping, ignition timing, pressure curve control and maximization, and safe neutralization of the energetic material. |
| US09464872B2 |
Protective material
According to the invention there is provided a protective material for dissipating the kinetic energy of a moving object including a plurality of layers of fibrous armor material in which at least some adjacent layers of fibrous armor material are separated by one or more separator layers for reducing inter-layer friction. |
| US09464870B2 |
Firearm sight adjustment and installation tool
A firearm sight adjustment and installation tool is described. The tool serves to facilitate and expedite the accurate adjustment and/or installation of sights on the slides of a firearm, whenever the sights allow this adjustment. The tool includes a plate, a plate with nuts, tightening screws, a spacer block, at least one adapter, a drift screw, an interchangeable pushing element and quick reference featured on one of the plates. With the tool and little expertise, an individual may manually adjust both the front and rear sights of a firearm to increase the accuracy of the firearm without additional tools. |
| US09464868B2 |
Shooting aid
There is provided a shooting training aid for a gun including a sight channel, a wing and connection member for connecting the shooting aid to the gun. The sight channel has a central vertical axis that extends substantially perpendicularly to an upper plane of the wing. There is also provided a gun mount training and gun-fit assessment methods using the shooting aid of the present invention. |
| US09464864B2 |
Rifle internal accessory mounting apparatus, system, and method
Fore-end half stock (hand guard) internal rail mounts for a rifle allows rifle accessories to be internally attached to the hand guard. Internal rails are positioned about the axis of the rifle barrel to align the rifle accessory. |
| US09464863B2 |
Adjustable buttstock for firearm
A buttstock includes a mounting extension member attachable to a firearm receiver, an adjustable butt pad for varying the length of the stock, and an adjustable cheek rest for adjusting the height of the stock. The butt pad assembly is attached to the extension member by a laterally compressible clamping member operated by a double-acting cam lever having two locking surfaces and a non-locking release surface. At least one adjustment rail extends forward from the butt pad through opposing movable jaws of the clamping member. The rail can slide forward/rearward to adjust the stock length which is lockable via the cam lever locking surfaces. The cheek rest includes compressible opposing adjustment legs operated by a similarly configured cam lever in one embodiment. The height of the cheek rest may be adjusted and locked in position in a similar manner. |
| US09464862B2 |
Paintball loader drive system
The present invention is directed to a ball feed mechanism and associated method for use in a paintball loader. The ball feed mechanism includes a feeder which conveys or impels balls toward a feed neck, and a drive member which is concentric with the feeder. The feeder is coupled to the drive member. An electric motor is used to rotate the drive member which in turn causes the feeder to rotate. The feed mechanism includes sensors which detect the motion of the feeder and the drive member. A controller determines the position of the feeder relative to the drive member and actuates a motor when necessary. |
| US09464860B2 |
Shotgun simulator
A shotgun sound simulator comprises an elongated enclosed tube defining a combustion chamber into which an ignitable mixture can be combusted. The tube also includes at least one baffle and an open end having a smaller diameter than the tube. The open end permits ignited gases to escape. By controlling the ratios of the tube diameter (TI), the outlet port diameter (OP), baffle opening diameter (BH), combustion chamber length (CC); and the distance from the combustion chamber to the outlet port (RC), a simulated shotgun sound can be produced upon combustion of a gas in the combustion chamber. Conveniently, the outlet port can be made to receive a training bumper that is launched when the gas is ignited. |
| US09464855B2 |
Countermass container for use in a recoilless weapon and a recoilless weapon comprising such a countermass container
A countermass container for use in a recoilless weapon. The countermass container includes an envelope encloses a countermass. A recoilless weapon includes a barrel accommodating an ammunition unit, a propellant charge and a countermass container. The countermass container includes an envelope enclosing a countermass. The barrel includes a front end opening for firing the ammunition unit out of the barrel and a rear end opening for ejecting the envelope and countermass of the counter mass container. The envelope is divided into a front section and a rear section. The rear section of the envelope has a weaker construction than the front section of the envelope to more easily crack than the front section of the envelope. Splines are provided at the front section to create ducts. |
| US09464851B2 |
Heat exchanger
A flooded heat exchanger of is described. The flooded heat exchanger has a primary tube bundle inside which a first operating fluid flows, a skirt surrounding the primary tube bundle and receiving a second operating fluid which flows over the primary tube bundle, and one or more extractable units, each in turn having a secondary tube bundle which receives an auxiliary operating fluid, and a secondary tube plate for performing a removable connection to the flooded heat exchanger. |
| US09464850B2 |
Heat exchanger
A heat exchanger includes a single refrigerant pipe (44) for introducing a refrigerant into a receiver tank (14) from a condenser header part (20, 26), and a mounting member (40) for mounting the receiver tank to a core (10). The mounting member has a refrigerant inlet passage (56) connecting the refrigerant pipe to the interior of the receiver tank, and a refrigerant outlet passage (58) connecting the interior of the receiver tank to a sub-cooler header part (22, 28). |
| US09464847B2 |
Shell-and-tube heat exchangers with foam heat transfer units
Shell-and-tube heat exchangers that utilize one or more foam heat transfer units engaged with the tubes to enhance the heat transfer between first and second fluids. The foam of the heat transfer units can be any thermally conductive foam material that enhances heat transfer, for example graphite foam. These shell-and-tube heat exchangers are highly efficient, inexpensive to build, and corrosion resistant. The described heat exchangers can be used in a variety of applications, including but not limited to, low thermal driving force applications, power generation applications, and non-power generation applications such as refrigeration and cryogenics. The foam heat transfer units can be made from any thermally conductive foam material including, but not limited to, graphite foam or metal foam. In an embodiment, the heat exchanger utilizes tubes that are twisted around a central foam heat transfer unit. |
| US09464846B2 |
Refractory delta cooling system
Embodiments of the present invention comprise a refractory delta made from a refractory material having a cold-face side and a hot-face side. One or more electrode apertures are located in the refractory delta for receiving one or more electrodes. One or more cooling apertures extend from the cold-face side of the refractory material to adjacent the hot-face side of the refractory material. The one or more cooling apertures may further comprise a copper tube. A cooling system delivers a cooling liquid to the one or more cooling apertures, and the cooling liquid draws heat from the adjacent refractory material, including the hot-face side, and evaporates to allow replacement cooling liquid to further draw heat from the adjacent refractory material. |
| US09464845B2 |
Combined furnace system for fire refining red impure copper
A combined furnace system for fire refining red impure copper, comprising in order: a shaft furnace (2) for smelting red impure copper raw material into red impure copper liquid; a red impure copper liquid groove (4); at least one rotary furnace (5) for refining and producing refined copper liquid by means of oxidation reduction; a refined copper liquid groove (6). The combined furnace system is characterized in that the system comprises a tilting furnace (3) between the shaft furnace (2) and the red impure copper liquid groove (4) for removing slag from red impure copper liquid having slag. The invention thereby provides a combined furnace system that easily removes slag, has a smooth, unobstructed red impure copper liquid groove, and smelts and refines with stable production efficiency. |
| US09464843B2 |
Shoe dryer
In one aspect, the present invention is directed to a shoe drier, comprising: a structure (16) having an enclosed space into which shoes (28) are placed for drying; a heating system (detailed in FIG. 4 and the description thereof), for heating air inside said structure, thereby drying said shoes; a first rack (36), disposed inside said enclosed space, onto which said shoes are placed for drying; a mechanism for lifting said first rack as a result of opening the top of said structure, and placing down said first rack as a result of closing the top of said structure (detailed in FIG. 3 and the description thereof); thereby facilitating the use thereof for a disabled user. |
| US09464839B2 |
Semi-electric mobile refrigerated system
A power supply system for a transport refrigeration system includes an engine coupled to a compressor of a refrigeration unit for direct drive powering the compressor and a generator arranged to also be direct driven by the engine for generating electric power. The generator and the compressor are mounted to a common drive shaft driven by the engine, and the generator may be integrated with the compressor. The power supply system may further include an alternator arranged to be belt driven by the engine for generating DC electric power. A battery pack may be provided for storing and supplying additional DC power. During peak load demand on the refrigeration unit, the engine may be operated with the generator switched off to directly drive the compressor and direct current may be drawn from the battery pack to drive the condenser/gas cooler and evaporator fans. |
| US09464829B2 |
Air-conditioning apparatus
An air-conditioning apparatus including: a refrigerant circuit having a compressor, a refrigerant flow switching valve, a heat exchanger related to the heat transfer medium, an expansion valve, a heat source-side heat exchanger which is connected by a refrigerant pipe to form a refrigeration cycle, a heat transfer medium circuit having the heat exchanger related to the heat transfer medium, a pump, a plurality of use-side heat exchangers which are connected by a heat transfer medium pipe, and an opening and closing valve provided to the heat transfer medium supply pipe. |
| US09464828B2 |
Natural coolant refrigerating plant
A natural coolant refrigerating plant includes a motor-driven compressor with two compression stages, at least one jacket for heating and/or cooling a product being processed, an intercooler located upstream of the second compression stage and a gas-cooler located downstream of an outlet from a second compression stage. A first branch connects an outlet of the gas-cooler with an inlet of the first stage of the motor-driven compressor for recovering a predetermined quantity of coolant. |
| US09464827B2 |
Transport refrigeration system controller to engine control unit interface
Embodiments of a TRS Controller to ECU interface are provided. The interface includes a TRS Controller connected to an ECU that is part of an engine. The interface includes a keyswitch connection that is configured to send a keyswitch message from the TRS Controller to the ECU, a run signal connection that is configured to send a run message from the TRS Controller to the ECU, and a CAN communication connection that is configured to provide two-way communication between the TRS Controller and the ECU. |
| US09464822B2 |
Electrochemical heat transfer system
A heat transfer system includes a working fluid and an electrochemical compressor. The working fluid is made up of a polar solvent that primarily acts as a condensable refrigerant and hydrogen that primarily acts as an electrochemically-active component. The electrochemical compressor includes an inlet fluidly coupled to an evaporator to receive the working fluid; an outlet fluidly coupled to a condenser; and one or more electrochemical cells electrically connected to each other through a power supply. Each electrochemical cell includes a gas pervious anode, a gas pervious cathode, and an electrolytic membrane disposed between and in intimate electrical contact with the cathode and the anode to pass the working fluid. |
| US09464821B2 |
Solar furnace
This invention relates to a solar furnace. In particular, this invention relates to a solar furnace which is capable of raising the temperature of transfer medium. In use, the heated transfer medium can be used to generate electricity or put to other work, such as, for example, air conditioning, pasteurisation or desalination. In fact, for any situation that requires a source to generate work or power. The present invention describes a solar furnace for raising the temperature of a heat transfer medium, comprising a lens array for admitting incident thermal and solar energy onto a reflector portion and a pressure vessel. The reflector portion being generally shaped so as to concentrate said solar energy onto said pressure vessel. The pressure vessel having an inlet through which said heat transfer medium is injected and a central core which defines a continuous heat transfer path for said heat transfer medium to contact the surface of said pressure vessel and exit said pressure vessel at an outlet. The solar furnace described herein is totally self-contained, requiring no additional power and can be used at the most remote locations requiring very little maintenance. |
| US09464820B2 |
Surface mounted heater with universal seal fitting
A surface mounted heater includes a universal seal fitting. A first aperture in the substrate secures the substrate to an inlet gas valve of the component. The first aperture has a scalloped radii with a first radii and a second radii. The first radii corresponds to a first type of component seal and the second radii corresponding to a second type of component seal. |
| US09464816B1 |
Attic ventilation system
A housing has a base and upstanding interior and exterior side walls and end walls. A plurality of apertures are in the interior wall. The side walls are formed with outwardly facing flanges positionable upon a roof. A plurality of fans are coupled to the interior side wall in alignment with associated apertures. A power assembly includes cables coupling the fans to a source of potential whereby the fans when activated cause a flow of warm air from the attic and through the housing and through the fan and into the ridge vent and through the holes of the intermediate section and to atmosphere. |
| US09464815B2 |
HVAC systems and methods with improved humidity regulation
Systems, devices, and methods are presented for using a liquid desiccant to regulate a moisture content of air conditioned by a heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. The liquid desiccant is disposed within a processing volume, which is substantially-enclosed and substantially segregates the liquid desiccant from the conditioned air. A pair of vapor-permeable membranes define opposite surfaces of the processing volume. Water vapor diffuses through the vapor-permeable membranes, thereby enabling an exchange of moisture between the liquid desiccant and the conditioned air. The refrigerant circuit itself is used to cool desiccant in the absorber and heat desiccant in the desorber. Other systems, devices, and methods are presented. |
| US09464806B2 |
Bolt cleaning and fire starting survival tool
Improvements in a multi-functional gun bolt cleaning and fire starting survival tool. The tool is specifically designed for owners and operators of semi-automatic and fully automatic firearms that utilize a rotating breech bolt (for example, the M-4 carbine, M16 and AR-15 type rifles). The tool has a steel tool designed to scrape carbon buildup off on critical surfaces so the firearm may function. The tool incorporates a flint rod for use with the steel tool, creating sparks for starting fires. The housing of the device keeps the other parts away from elements and acts as a handle for the flint rod when trying to start fires. The entire device is designed to fit within compartments found in common firearms accessories. |
| US09464799B2 |
Air cooling of electronic driver in a lighting device
A lighting device including one or more solid state light sources providing air cooling of the electronic driver is disclosed. The driver receives power and provides it to the light source(s). The device also includes a first and a second housing. The first housing contains, at least in part, the driver, and includes a support having an exterior and an interior, that provides mechanical support to the second housing connected thereto. The interior includes a first opening. The second housing is a heat sink for the device. The second housing has an interior portion, with a second opening corresponding to the first opening, and an exterior portion, having a plurality of external openings. Air entering an external opening is able to mix with air in the first housing by flowing through the first opening and the corresponding second opening, which cools the electronic driver. |
| US09464795B2 |
Receptacle cover
A cover for an electrical receptacle including a faceplate. The cover also includes a first transmission tab configured to be electrically connected to a first power line of the electrical receptacle and a second transmission tab configured to be electrically connected to a second power line of the electrical receptacle. Additionally, the cover includes a device (such as a light source, circuit, port, or sensor) in communication with the first transmission tab and the second transmission tab. |
| US09464789B2 |
Modular LED explosion-proof lamp
A modular LED explosion-proof lamp usable in any environment includes a body, a wiring box assembly, an illumination unit and a positioning assembly. The body includes a first coupling port, a second coupling port and a third coupling port. The wiring box assembly is connected to the first coupling port, or the second coupling port or the third coupling port. The illumination unit is connected to the first coupling port, or the second coupling port or the third coupling port. The positioning assembly is connected to the first coupling port, or the second coupling port or the third coupling port. Hence the wiring box assembly, the illumination unit or the positioning assembly can be selectively connected to the first coupling port, or the second coupling port or the third coupling port. Thus the modular LED explosion-proof lamp can be assembled in a plurality of implementation fashions. |
| US09464785B2 |
Vehicular light guides and assemblies with uniform illumination
A light guide is provided that includes a light chamber defined by isotropically luminant top, bottom, and back surfaces, and a front surface having a translucent lens. The light guide also includes a reflective diaphragm within the chamber that defines a top gap between the diaphragm and the top surface, and a bottom gap between the diaphragm and the bottom surface. The light guide further includes an LED light source located between the diaphragm and the back surface of the chamber. The light guide may also be configured with a front surface having a partially transmissive lens and no reflective diaphragm. A vehicle lighting assembly is also provided that includes a plurality of interconnected light chamber sections comprising light guides. |
| US09464782B2 |
Light panel, optical assembly with improved interface and light panel with improved manufacturing tolerances
Light panels, and methods of providing the light panels, are described. The described light panels are substantially transparent and can operate as an illumination device or as a solar panel. An example light panel includes a first optic layer for transmitting light; a second optic layer with a reflective surface configured for one of directing light from the first optic layer and directing light to the first optic layer; and a receiving assembly disposed between the first optic layer and the second optic layer. The receiving assembly includes a first receiving layer adjacent to the first optic layer; a second receiving layer adjacent to the second optic layer and separated from the first receiving layer; and a light device coupled to the first receiving layer. The light device can be configured to receive light from the reflective surface or to provide light to the reflective surface. |
| US09464778B2 |
Lighting device utilizing a double fresnel lens
According to one aspect, an optical lens includes a substrate having a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The optical lens includes a first pattern of Fresnel features having a first focal length disposed on the first side and a second pattern of Fresnel features having a second focal length disposed on the second side. The first pattern of Fresnel features is disposed perpendicular to the second pattern of Fresnel features, and the first focal length is different from the second focal length. |
| US09464774B1 |
Vehicles lamp
The vehicular lamp comprises: an outer housing made of a heat dissipating material, opened at a front thereof, and having a circuit board received therein, the outer housing including a plurality of heat-dissipating fins formed on an outer surface thereof and including an engaging groove depressed rearwardly along an opened front edge thereof; a reflective housing including a reflective surface formed on a front side thereof and having a rearwardly recessed shape, with the reflective housing received in the opened front portion of the outer housing; an LED fixing member inserted into an inner lower portion of the outer housing through the reflective housing, and having an upwardly bently extending part and including an LED light module mounted at a rear surface thereof so as to be electrically connected to the circuit board; and a transparent cover including an engaging protrusion rearwardly protrudingly formed at a rear edge. |
| US09464770B2 |
LED lighting strip
An electric lighting arrangement including a plurality of lighting units each containing a plurality of LED lights, to form a strip of lights. The units are adapted to be joined together by means of a ball joint arrangement, which comprises two conjoined balls, each ball being adapted to be mounted in a retaining bail cup in a lighting unit, ball cups being provided on opposed ends of the units to enable the units to be pivotable one relative to the other in all planes. Each lighting unit includes a main body incorporating a heat sink in the form of head conducting fins. |
| US09464765B2 |
LED lighting apparatus
The light emitting diode lighting apparatus includes: a tubular cover; a cap portion which is coupled to an end of a longitudinal direction of the cover; and a light emitting diode module which is coupled to the cap portion and is disposed within the cover. The cap portion includes: a cap which is coupled with the cover and is provided with a coupling portion therein; and a contact terminal which is coupled to the coupling portion to directly contact the light emitting diode module and elastically supports the light emitting diode module. |
| US09464763B2 |
Safety valve for cryogenic insulated gas cylinder
The invention relates to a safety valve for a cryogenic insulated gas cylinder, which comprises a valve body, and the valve body further comprises a gas inlet flow channel, a valve seat, a slide way, a valve core and a spring, a gas inlet connecting thread and an adjusting nut. An adjusting nut exhaust hole set on said adjusting nut, a spring set between the said adjusting nut and a spring bracket with an exhaust hole. A valve assembly further comprises the valve core, a plurality of guide rings, a positioning steel ball and a valve flap, a valve core exhaust hole is provided in the valve core. The safety valve has high stability in discharge pressure and return pressure, high repeatability and good sealing performance, and is firm in structure, difficult to be damaged and high in safety. |
| US09464761B2 |
Gas supply method and gas supply apparatus
A gas-filling device (1) in which the design pressure of a pressure accumulator can be reduced while downsizing a compressor includes a compressor (4) and a pressure accumulator (5). In advance, a relationship between a filling pressure and a target flow rate is determined in accordance with the volume of a tank (3), the filling pressure is detected, and the target flow rate is determined. A flow rate of a gas to be supplied into the tank (3) is controlled according to the target flow rate. In a case where the target flow rate is equal to or less than a maximum discharge flow rate of the compressor (4), the gas is supplied to the tank (3) only from the compressor (4). In a case where the target flow rate is greater than the maximum discharge flow rate, the gas is supplied to the tank (3) from the compressor (4) and the pressure accumulator (5). |
| US09464758B2 |
Pressure vessel and production method thereof
A second protective member (62) is provided to cover a thin wall portion and its periphery of a second tank head section (92), so as to protect the thin wall portion. The thin wall portion is a region of the second tank head section (92) in which a reinforcing layer (20) has a smaller wall thickness. The second protective member (62) has a double layer structure including an inner layer made of polyurethane and an outer layer made of a material mixture of polyurethane and expanded graphite. This structure suppresses the mass and the volume of a pressure vessel from being increased by the presence of a protective layer. |
| US09464756B2 |
Earphone assembly and head strap thereof
A head strap includes a head band and a pair of holders. The pair of holders are connected to two ends of the head band. Each of the pair of holders includes a receiving portion. The receiving portion defines a receiving cavity with a cutout. The disclosure also provides an earphone assembly. |
| US09464754B1 |
Automated mobile boom system for crawling robots
A system comprising a multi-functional boom subsystem integrated with a holonomic-motion boom base platform. The boom base platform may comprise: Mecanum wheels with independently controlled motors; a pair of sub-platforms coupled by a roll-axis pivot to maintain four-wheel contact with the ground surface; and twist reduction mechanisms to minimize any yaw-axis twisting torque exerted on the roll-axis pivot. A computer with motion control software may be embedded on the boom base platform. The motion control function can be integrated with a real-time tracking system. The motion control computer may have multiple platform motion control modes: (1) a path following mode in which the boom base platform matches the motion path of the surface crawler (i.e., integration with crawler control); (2) a reactive mode in which the boom base platform moves based on the pan and tilt angles of the boom arm; and (3) a collision avoidance mode using sensors distributed around the perimeter of the boom base platform to detect obstacles. |
| US09464753B2 |
Tripod bowl clamp device
A camera support bowl clamp device comprises a bowl member of a pan tilt head suitable for supporting a broadcast or motion picture camera arranged within a recessed member of a camera support, whereby said bowl member is attached at one end of a shaft and a clamping cup arranged at an opposite end of said shaft, whereby said opposite end extends through said recessed member of a camera support; wherein said clamping cup located at a first limit position applies a clamping force to a surface of said recessed member of a camera support which subsequently pulls said bowl member, via said shaft, down into said recess and applies a second clamping force from a surface of said bowl to a cooperating surface of said recessed member, and at a second limit position releases said clamping force to said recessed member which subsequently releases said second clamping force by separating said surface of said bowl from said cooperating surface of said recessed member; characterized in that said clamping cup further comprises a clamp adjustment member, a resilient member, and a lever pivotally attached to said clamp adjustment member whereby the movement of said lever to a first position compresses said resilient member to locate said clamping cup at said second limit position, and at a second position said lever allows the resilient member to decompress to locate said clamping cup at said first position. |
| US09464744B2 |
Leakage-proof pipe fitting of quick connection for reverse osmosis membrane (RO) water treatment unit of household
A leakage-proof pipe fitting of quick connection for a Reverse Osmosis Membrane (RO) household water treatment unit comprises a pipe fitting, a sealing O-ring, an annular cooperative bushing collar, an accessory latching clip and an adapted cylindrical elastic sleeving collet with an elongated annular delimiting flange, whose longitudinal thickness is lengthened into at least a double length for the original longitudinal thickness of the conventional annular delimiting flange to extend the embracing distance from the top surface of the adapted cylindrical elastic sleeving collet to the bottom surface of a cylindrical retainer in the pipe fitting so that the curvature for the bent water pipe/tube covered by the embracing distance is reduced. |
| US09464743B2 |
Bias release cartridge
An apparatus for unsealing a pipe in a pipe assembly is disclosed. The apparatus has a seal for minimizing leakage from the pipe and a spring attaching to both the seal and the pipe assembly. If the seal is to be removed, a spring force of the spring acts against and moves the seal for removal of the seal. |
| US09464742B2 |
Socket and pipe fitting including same
In a socket of the present invention, an incorporated plug part is disposed in a third base part. The socket is in an inserted state when an engaging portion of this incorporated plug part is engaged with a first engaged portion of an engaged part. In this state, an engaging portion of a plug is engaged with steel balls disposed in the incorporated plug part, thereby allowing the plug and the socket to be fitted to each other, so that an airtight condition is established in a pipe fitting. |
| US09464740B2 |
Snap-in oriented fitting
A connector system includes a plug portion and a receiving portion. The plug portion includes a resilient retention portion at the forward end of the plug portion, a sealing member distal from the retention portion, an orientation plate rigidly connected to the plug portion, wherein the orientation plate has a frontal profile including one or more straight edges. The receiving portion includes, a hole through the receiving portion, wherein the hole has a diameter smaller than a largest diameter of the resilient retention portion, a shoulder on one side of the receiving portion that cooperates with the retention portion to fix the axial position of the plug portion in the receiving portion, a recess on the opposite side of the receiving portion, wherein the recess has a frontal shape similar to the frontal profile of the orientation plate, wherein the orientation plate fits within the recess to fix the rotational orientation of the plug portion with respect to the receiving portion. |
| US09464739B2 |
Guiding device for guiding a despenser to draw solution from at least one well on a microplate
The present invention discloses a guiding device for guiding a dispenser to draw solution from at least one well on a microplate. The guiding device includes a column body whereon a first opening and a second opening are formed on opposite sides, and a slotting structure passing through the column body and communicating with the first opening and the second opening. A pipe of the dispenser passes through the first opening, the slotting structure and the second opening to reach inside the at least one well on the microplate for drawing the solution contained in the at least one well. |
| US09464733B2 |
Gravity driven pile tower based device for pipeline lifting and support and method of use
A system and method for securely cradling a subsea pipeline is claimed that lands on one side of the pipeline, is embedded into the sea floor, reaches under the pipeline, positions the cradling structure, and then lifts the pipeline. The system typically comprises a gravity driven pile based device, comprising a pile tower, a roller carriage assembly, and a jacking assembly that engages the roller carriage assembly and pile tower rails. |
| US09464730B2 |
Exhaust valve spindle for an exhaust valve in an internal combustion engine
An exhaust valve spindle for an exhaust valve in an internal combustion engine has a shaft and a valve disc at the lower end of the shaft, which valve disc at its upper surface has a seat area. The seat area is of a seat material comprising at least from 34.0 to 44.0% Cr, an aggregate amount of Nb and Ta in the range from at least 2.8 to 6.1%, from 0.3 to 2.0% Ti, at the most 0.2% Al, at the most 0.04% B, at the most 0.8% Fe, at the most 0.04% C, at the most 0.4% Si, and a balance of Ni, where the amount of Ti+Nb+0.5×Ta is in the range from 3.4 to 6.6%, and where the amount of Nb+0.5×Ta is less than 3.0% if the amount of Ti is larger than 1.5%. |
| US09464729B2 |
Pressure balanced valve
The disclosed embodiments include a pressure balance valve that solves one or more problems associated with existing designs. For example, in one embodiment, a pressure balancing valve assembly is disclosed that provides a low cost frictionless assembly that is constructed to not seal the leak path between an inlet port and an outlet port. Instead, this leak path is minimized with small angle tapered plunger and a precision bored annulus to provide a defined area for the pressure drop to occur and to limit the flow from the inlet to the outlet. |
| US09464728B2 |
Solenoid valve
The invention relates to a solenoid valve (100), which has a valve rod (141), an electromagnetic actuation device (131, 135, 139) for deflecting the valve rod (141) starting from a first switching position into a second switching position, and a support device (110, 210, 310, 410) for supporting the valve rod (141). The support device (110, 210, 310, 410) has a different form depending upon the deflection of the valve rod (141). The solenoid valve (100) further comprises a locking device (121, 122, 123, 125), which is designed to move a moveable holding element (121) into a locking position upon activation of the electromagnetic actuation device (131, 135, 139) in order to deflect the valve rod (141) into the second switching position, in which locking position the holding element (121) lies against the support device (110, 210, 310, 410), and is designed to move the holding element (121) away from the locking position upon deactivation of the electromagnetic actuation device (131, 135, 139). |
| US09464727B2 |
Fluid control valve assembly
Provided is a fluid control valve assembly which reduces pressure loss as much as possible in a fluid passage line including a fluid control valve, thereby mini-minimizing the pressure for a fluid to pass therethrough and thus ensuring a required amount of flow without upsizing the overall assembly. The fluid control valve assembly is adapted such that an upstream pipe (17) forming an upstream fluid passageway and tilted at a predetermined angle relative to a valve axis (L) is provided to face an upstream chamber (11). The upstream chamber is formed upstream of a valve portion (12) which has a valve seat (13) and a valve body (14) in a valve housing (10) and which can open and close the fluid passageway. The wall surface of the upstream chamber is integrated with a swelling (20), which is projected in the chamber to thereby rectify and guide the fluid flowing therein through the upstream pipe so that the fluid smoothly flows to the valve portion. |
| US09464721B2 |
Gate valve with secure sealing mechanism
A gate valve with secure sealing mechanism includes a main body having a valve opening, a driver disposed on the main body, a sliding seat slidingly disposed in the main body, a swing arm, and a valve member. Therein, two ends of the swing arm are connected to the driver and the sliding seat, respectively, whereby the driver drives the swing arm to move circularly between a first and second position, thereby triggering the sliding seat to slide. When the swing arm is at the first or second position, the swing arm is biased against the route direction of the sliding seat. The valve member is disposed on the sliding seat for moving in parallel or vertical to the valve opening, thereby preventing the sliding seat from swaying when the swing arm is at the first or second locking position. |
| US09464719B2 |
Seal assembly for use in harsh environments
A sealing assembly, for example a piston ring, for use in harsh environments, e.g., high radiation levels. The piston ring has an annular sealing surface which together with a member forming a radially outer annular cylinder surface, e.g., a cylinder, forms a seal pocket. Received in the seal pocket is an annular seal comprised of a plurality of wraps of at least one strand of a substantially incompressible and inelastic material such as graphite fiber. The assembly further includes a compression ring and compression assembly which compresses the seal body between the support surface and the compression ring to displace the seal body into sealing engagement with the radially inner and outer sealing surfaces. |
| US09464717B2 |
Piston ring
Provided is a piston ring such that it is possible to sufficiently inhibit adhesive wear when the piston ring is mounted to a piston for a diesel engine in which at least the piston ring groove in the piston is formed from steel or cast iron. Disclosed is a piston ring mounted to a piston for a diesel engine, wherein the load length ratio (Rmr2) (in accordance with JIS B0601:2001) of the top surface and bottom surface of the piston ring satisfies each of the following conditions: Rmr2 (0.5%, 0.3[mu]m)=20% and Rmr2 (0.5%, 0.4[mu]m)=40%. |
| US09464716B2 |
Cylinder assembly
A cylinder assembly may include a cylinder end having a cylinder end opening, a cylinder barrel, a piston, a rod, and a shaft. An opening through the piston forms a sleeve passing through a portion of the piston. The rod extends out of the cylinder barrel and is configured to rotate with respect to the cylinder barrel and the cylinder end. An opening in the rod further forms the sleeve passing through an interior portion of the rod. A protruding end of the shaft passes through the cylinder end opening. A portion of the shaft has a cross-sectional shape corresponding to the cross-section of the sleeve. The protruding end of the shaft is free to rotate within the cylinder end opening in response to a rotation of the rod. The shaft is free to slide within the sleeve in response to an extension or retraction of the rod. |
| US09464714B2 |
Gear shifting system and gear shifting element for a gear shifting system
A gear shifting device includes a shifting element that is axially shiftable into a shift position through the interaction of a shift pin with an associated groove-like shift gate that changes course in an axial direction. The shift element features, on an inner or outer diameter the shift gate, while the respective shift pin is arranged in a radially displaceable manner opposite the shift gate on a transmission component adjacent to the shift element. |
| US09464711B2 |
Hydraulic pressure supply system of automatic transmission for vehicle
A hydraulic pressure supply system of an automatic transmission for a vehicle which generates a low hydraulic pressure and a high hydraulic pressure using oil stored in an oil pan and supplies the low hydraulic pressure and the high hydraulic pressure respectively to a low pressure portion and a high pressure portion may include a low-pressure hydraulic pump, a first switch valve, a low-pressure regulator valve, a high-pressure hydraulic pump, a second switch valve and a high-pressure regulator valve. |
| US09464709B2 |
Transmission
A transmission includes a transmission mechanism. The transmission mechanism includes a planetary gear mechanism and a fixing element. A ring gear is provided with a first gear meshing with an output gear on an output member and a second gear meshing with a plurality of pinion gears. The output gear and the first gear include helical gears meshing with each other. The second gear and the plurality of pinion gears include helical gears meshing with each other. Helix angles of the output gear and the first gear and helix angles of the second gear and the plurality of pinion gears are set so that a thrust force generated in a case where the output gear and the first gear rotate and a thrust force generated in a case where the second gear and the plurality of pinion gears rotate are directed towards each other. |
| US09464708B2 |
Gear carrier flex mount lubrication
An exemplary method of lubricating a turbomachine interface includes, among other things, securing a carrier relative to a torque frame using a flexure pin, and lubricating an interface of the flexure pin using a lubricant that has moved through a lubricant passage in the carrier and a lubricant passage in the flexure pin. |
| US09464707B2 |
Overrunning isolating decoupler pulleys
Embodiments of the present invention provide improved overrunning pulleys that overcome one or more of the deficiencies in the prior art as discussed herein. Embodiments of the present invention provide pulleys that are “springy” in the torque direction, yet have a lower effective spring constant (e.g., are less stiff) over a greater angular range. Further, in at least some embodiments, the inventive pulleys use a low cost and simple torque transfer geometry. Further, in at least some embodiments, the inventive pulleys afford significant overrun. Further, in at least some embodiments, the inventive pulleys are radially small in an overall envelope, for example, in order to allow an alternator to reach its highest possible rotational speed, and thus output, during engine idle. Further, in at least some embodiments, the inventive pulleys are more durable, as they offer the aforementioned dynamics in both directions (torque and counter-torque). |
| US09464706B2 |
Shaft with a gear cast on its front side and method for producing such a shaft
The present invention is directed to a shaft with two front sides and an axis of rotation, whereby the shaft comprises at least one gear with the same axis of rotation, which gear borders at least a first one of the front sides in an axial area. Viewed from radially inside toward radially outside, the gear comprises a connection part with a central receptacle for the shaft, and an outer part with teeth. The connection part is cast directly between the shaft and the outer part. The connection part extends over the shaft in axial direction and covers the first front side. |
| US09464704B2 |
Actuator
An actuator is composed of a frame having a guide rail thereon and a slider movable relative to the frame by means of a ball lead screw. Lubrication of the ball lead screw is carried out by a lubricating member installed in the slider. A first lubricating member has an applicator nose which comes into sliding contact with a helical groove around the ball lead screw and a second lubricating member makes close contact with the first lubricating member to supply lubricant to the first lubricating member. The first and second lubricating members fit together in a recess made at one end of the slider major body. Both the first and second lubricating members have C-shaped contour. The first and second lubricating members lying in close engagement with each other are received in a recess in the end of the slider major body and held there with a presser plate which is secured using fastening screws. |
| US09464703B2 |
Ball screw capable of sensing preload
A ball screw capable of sensing a preload is formed of a nut having an internal thread surrounding an imaginary central axis, a screw inserted into the nut and having an external thread surrounding the imaginary central axis, and a plurality of balls are mounted between the internal and external threads in a way that the balls roll therebetween. A mounting hole having a mounting surface therein is formed in the nut. The mounting surface corresponds to the internal thread in a way that it is substantially perpendicular to the imaginary central axis. A force sensor is mounted to the mounting surface. The force sensor can directly sense the preload in real time, so it is uneasily adversely affected by any environmental factor to have more accurate sensing result relatively. |
| US09464700B2 |
Idler or roller device
A tension roller or reel device for a torque transmission element. The device comprises at least one bearing having one inner race, one outer race and at least one row of rolling elements between the inner race and the outer race, a pulley on top of the outer race, and a retaining screw inserted into a central bore of the inner race. The bore of the inner race is provided with a circumferential cavity in which an elastic ring is fitted non-securely and integrally, the cavity having an axial length strictly greater than the axial dimension of the elastic ring. |
| US09464696B2 |
Continuous variable transmission system and use thereof
The invention provides a continuously variable transmission (CVT) system comprising a transmission means, connected to an input shaft and comprising at least a driving gear capable of rotating around its center, said center capable of rotating around a center of a virtual trajectory; a gear ring, engaged with said driving gear, capable of eccentrically rotating around said center of said virtual trajectory; a blocking means, engaged with said gear ring, comprising a set of blocking elements adopted to block the rotation of said gear ring and which elements are suitable to move; and an output shaft, connected with said driving gear. The invention further provides the use of such a CVT system in large vehicles and windmills. |
| US09464691B2 |
Electromechanical device
An electromechanical device comprises a mechanical interface structure (101) for connecting to an external rotating element, for example a wind turbine. The device comprises an electrical machine (102-104), and one or more gear stages (105-112) on a power transmission path between the mechanical interface structure and a rotor of the electrical machine. The device further comprises mechanical structures (113-115) constituting a common lubricant oil room for both the gear stages and the electrical machine. The electromechanical device comprises oil channels (116a) for directing lubricant oil circulated in the device to flow via the gear stages and via bearings (118, 119) of the electrical machine. Therefore, a common lubricating system can be used for both the gear stages and the electrical machine. |
| US09464690B2 |
Chain link and method for forming chain link
Chain links and methods for forming chain links are provided. A method may include inserting a pin into a pin hole defined in a boss insert, and introducing the boss insert to a mold cavity defined in a mold plate of a mold assembly. The method further includes flowing chain link substrate to the mold cavity, and cooling the chain link substrate such that a chain link is formed. The chain link includes a base portion, a platform extending from the base portion, and a rib assembly extending from the platform and including a plurality of ribs and defining a central pocket. The boss insert is disposed in the pocket, and the pin is disposed in the pin hole of the boss insert. |
| US09464689B2 |
Energy chain, particularly for clean room applications
This invention relates to an energy chain (100; 200 . . . 700) having a number of mutually articulated chain links (212; 312 . . . 812), at least some chain links present a housing (216; 316 . . . 816) for the feed-through of cables and hoses. Adjacent chain links are pivotable against each there by way of hinged connections in such a manner that between a fixed connector (105) and movable connector (107) of said energy chain a movable deflection zone (104) with a predetermined curvature is formed. The invention provides that a bendable tubular envelope (110; 210 . . . 810), in particular a corrugated hose or corrugated tube, surrounds the chain links in the circumferential direction and between said two connectors (105, 107) in a continuous manner. The envelope is supported and entrained by at least some chain links (212; 312 . . . 812) and is sufficiently flexible for absorbing the predetermined curvature of the deflection zone (104) and for following the reciprocating movement thereof. |
| US09464688B2 |
Chain for continuously variable transmission
Three links within one width-direction unit are included in respectively different link units. The links in the first row and the sixth row from the right end and the left end of a chain are included in the same link unit. The links in the second row and the fifth row are included in the same link unit. The links in the ninth row and the tenth row are included in the same link unit other than the link unit in which the links in the second row and the fifth row are included. With the above structure, the stress amplitude of the links forming a chain for a chain-type continuously variable transmission can be reduced. |
| US09464685B2 |
Composite dome connectors for flywheel rim to shaft attachment
A dome connector for a flywheel rim to shaft attachment is provided. The dome connector includes a helically wound composite band that extends from a first port to a second port. The helically wound composite band has a helical angle in relation to a line perpendicular to a center of axis of the dome connector. The helical angle is selected to at least in part achieve a desired stiffness in the dome connector. |
| US09464684B2 |
Vibration control system with virtual end stops
A component vibration control system is disclosed. The vibration control system includes a first physical end stop, a second physical end stop, a damper assembly, a position sensor configured to determine a component position, and a processor in communication with the position sensor and the damper assembly. The processor is configured to set a first virtual end stop position, regulate a damping force of the damper assembly as the component moves toward the first virtual end stop position, and determine a second virtual end stop position based on a first distance of the component from a set position. |
| US09464683B2 |
Non-asbestos friction-material composition, and friction material and friction member using same
A non-asbestos frictional material composition is provided, which is capable of provide a frictional material with excellent shear strength, anti-crack properties, and abrasion resistance, even with the reduced content of copper. Furthermore, a frictional material and a friction member formed by using this non-asbestos frictional material composition are provided. The non-asbestos frictional material composition containing a binder, an organic filler, an inorganic filler, and a fiber base material includes: copper in a content of 0.5 mass % or less as a copper element; a metal other than copper and copper alloy in a content of 0.5 mass % or less; an acrylic elastomer-dispersed phenol resin as the binder in a content of 7-15 mass %; and Ca(OH)2 and/or CaO as the inorganic filler in a content of 1-5 mass %. |
| US09464680B2 |
Brake discs with bell
Discs for disc brakes arranged around a rotational axis, comprising: a braking band and a drum, said drum comprising an edge arranged radially outside a portion for connecting the drum to a hub, said drum further comprising a drum body connecting said edge to the braking band and being suitable to create an interspace between the drum and the hub accommodated therein, said edge delimiting at least one opening with communicates the interspace present between the drum body and the hub with the external of the drum, said opening being arranged radially outside said housing for the hub, and said openings delimited by walls having at least one section inclined with respect to the axial direction are provided. |
| US09464676B2 |
Torque-actuated clutch
The present invention relates to a clutch actuated by torque capable of controlling a clutch device to perform operations of coupling or disengaging with the driving torque, characterized in that a relay transmission structure assembly (104) is installed between a rotary prime motive end (101) and an output-end clutch structure (1052), the relay transmission structure assembly (104) is installed with a relay coupling structure (204) having an active side of relay coupling structure and a passive side of relay coupling structure, a limit-torque sliding damping device (106) is installed between the relay transmission structure assembly (104) and the static housing (107). |
| US09464674B2 |
Fixed type constant velocity universal joint
In a fixed type constant velocity universal joint, track grooves of an outer joint member include first track groove portions positioned on an interior side and second track groove portions positioned on an opening side. The first track groove portions each have an arc-shaped ball raceway center line having a curvature center that is prevented from being offset in an axial direction of the outer joint member with respect to a joint center. Planes each including at least the ball raceway center line and the joint center are inclined with respect to a joint axial line with their inclination directions alternately opposite to each other in the first track groove portions that are adjacent to each other in a peripheral direction of the outer joint member. |
| US09464673B2 |
Punching sheet-type flange
A sheet-type flange for transmitting power is formed by a substrate and a multiple of flange sheets. The substrate has a central axle hole with a square key slot and a multiple of fixed holes distributed around the axle hole. The multiple of flange sheets are annular and have connection slots arranged on a periphery of the flange sheets, as well as the multiple of flange sheets are arranged on both sides of the substrate respectively. The substrate and the multiple of flange sheets are fixed together by rivets. |
| US09464668B2 |
Bearing system
A bearing system having a bearing pair made up of at least one bearing and at least one running partner, wherein a coating which is made up of a layer of which the main constituent is amorphous SiO2 is applied to at least one running surface of the bearing pair. |
| US09464666B2 |
Bushing and transmission arrangement with the bushing
A bushing for the force-fitting connection to a force-fitting partner, with a hollow-cylindrical basic body, with the basic body defining a primary axis, with the basic body comprising at least one coupling section with at least one radially extending penetrating opening for a fluidic communication with a fluid section in the force-fitting partner, and with the wall thickness in the coupling section being greater than the wall thickness in the neighboring section of the basic body abutting the coupling section with the basic body showing a track section, extending in the circumferential direction, for supporting a radial guidance of a bearing partner, and a transmission arrangement comprising the bushing. |
| US09464665B2 |
Swivel attachment and branch line restraint
A swivel attachment and/or branch line restraint device with angular versatility and mobility for facilitating connection of installation components to support a pipe or other load relative to a support surface is provided. Advantageously, embodiments of the device provide a plurality of rotational or swivel degrees of freedom, which are substantially independently controllable, for its mating portions, which respectively engage corresponding mating portions of other installation components. The device embodiments can desirably be configured in male-female, male-male or female-female arrangements to enhance device utility and/or versatility, thereby advantageously allowing for use in a myriad of applications and installations, such as construction, utilities and the like, among others, to reliably support loads. |
| US09464662B2 |
Ball joint unit
A ball joint unit is provided and can include a ball member, a plurality of lubricant reception recesses formed on a surface of the ball member, each having a predetermined depth, a rod member connected to a first element to be integrally formed with the ball member, and a retainer connected to a second element and formed with a spherical ball member receptor corresponding in shape to the ball member, wherein the lubricant is accommodated and coated in an interior of the lubricant recesses and a surface of the ball member. |
| US09464658B2 |
Hybrid fastener
A hybrid fastener is provided in combination with a structural insert. The insert is disposed about a shank of the fastener at an unthreaded section. In another aspect, a sleeve surrounds the shank of the fastener and has apertures for receiving the insert therethrough. Methods of using the above-described hybrid fastener for securing workpieces are also disclosed. |
| US09464657B2 |
Retainer, retaining assembly, and retaining method
A retainer can couple at least two components together and includes a retainer body defining a body opening and at least one leg extending from the retainer body. The leg can bend relative to the retainer body between a first position and a second position upon application of an external force. The leg includes a connection portion coupled to the retainer body, a support portion coupled to the connection portion, and a bendable portion interconnecting the connection portion and the support portion. The bendable portion can bend such that the leg can move relative to the retainer body between the first and second positions. When the leg is in the first position, the support portion is obliquely angled relative to the retainer body. When the leg is in the second position, the support portion is substantially parallel to the retainer body. |
| US09464652B2 |
Fastening device for fastening a front panel on a drawer
A fastening device includes at least one furniture fitting which is pre-assembled on the front panel and has a first connecting element and a second connecting element for fastening the front panel on the drawer and least two intercepting devices, which are assigned to the drawer, wherein the intercepting devices retain the connecting elements automatically when the latter are pushed in. The one intercepting device has at least one movable intercepting element and the second intercepting device has at least one movable retaining Element. At least one locking device for the two intercepting devices prevents the furniture fitting from being released unintentionally from the intercepting devices. At least one unlocking device the two connecting elements of the furniture fitting to be released together from the intercepting devices. The retaining element can be moved independently of the intercepting element of the first intercepting device. |
| US09464651B2 |
Lower corner connector for modular sports goal
A lower corner connector for a modular sports goal comprises a first tube having a generally circular inner surface and a second tube extending substantially perpendicularly to the first tube. The first tube has an open end for receiving an upright and a base opposite the open end for resting on a surface. A retainer projects inwardly from the inner surface of the first tube for engaging and retaining the upright and permitting the upright to rock toward and away from the second tube within the first tube to assist in absorbing impact forces. |
| US09464644B2 |
Four-chamber cylinder for a hydraulic actuating device with emergency function and hydraulic actuating device having this
A four-chamber cylinder comprises a first piston device including a first piston and a first piston rod, the first piston delimiting a first chamber and a second chamber, a second piston device including a second piston and a second piston rod aligned with the first piston rod, the second piston delimiting a third chamber and a fourth chamber, and a compressive-elastic emergency element. The first piston, via the first chamber, and the second piston, via the fourth chamber, are configured to move towards each other and held with each other to tension the compressive-elastic emergency element. With the four-chamber cylinder according to the disclosure, an actuating movement is possible via the emergency spring even in the case of a supply failure, wherein the four-chamber cylinder can be installed and operated bi-directionally. |
| US09464643B2 |
Helical rotary actuator
This invention relates to a novel helical dual-center engagement converting mechanism and its applications in fluid-powered actuation system, more particularly to a highly reliable, simple, powerful and balanced and less expensive helical rotary actuator. This actuator comprises a self-balanced linear/rotary dual-center engagement converter, compact porting systems and easy manufacturing modules and various bodies and shaft interface with other components. This actuator also provides a rotary position control and backlash eliminating mechanism to meet various requirements with lighter weight, smaller size and higher accuracy of position and can be interfaced with different machines, such as subsea valves, earthmoving equipment, construction equipment, lifting equipment, landing gears, militarily equipment and medical devices, robotic and artificial leg and arm joints. |
| US09464639B2 |
Turbo charger having cooling structure
A turbocharger having a cooling structure may include a center housing on which a shaft is rotatably fitted, a turbine impeller disposed at one end of the shaft, a compressor impeller disposed at the other end of the shaft, a turbine housing fastened to the center housing and covering the turbine impeller such that an exhaust gas flows into the turbine impeller, a compressor housing fastened to the center housing and covering the compressor impeller such that an intake air flows into the compressor impeller, and a coil type heat exchanger formed in a rotational direction of the shaft and in a space between the center housing and the turbine impeller. |
| US09464638B2 |
Reverse brayton cycle with bladeless turbo compressor for automotive environmental cooling
An automotive cabin cooling system uses a bladeless turbocompressor driven by automobile engine exhaust to compress incoming ambient air. The compressed air is directed to an intercooler where it is cooled and then to another bladeless turbine used as an expander where the air cools as it expands and is directed to the cabin interior. Excess energy may be captured by an alternator couple to the expander turbine. The system employs no chemical refrigerant and may be further modified to include another intercooler on the output of the expander turbine to isolate the cooled cabin environment. |
| US09464637B2 |
Rolling bearing assembly of an exhaust gas turbocharger
A rolling bearing assembly for a rotor of a turbine includes a bearing housing and a bearing cartridge. The bearing cartridge may include an outer shell and an inner shell arranged concentrically thereto. The outer and inner shell may be rotatably mounted on one another about a concentric axis of rotation in two bearing sections axially spaced from one another via rolling bodies. The inner shell may be arranged on a rotor shaft and in the region of the bearing sections includes an inner press fit region. The outer shell may be arranged in the bearing housing and have axially spaced from the bearing sections at least one outer press fit region. In the respective bearing sections an oil damping ring channel may be radially formed between the bearing housing and the outer shell. The oil damping ring channel may extend coaxially to the axis of rotation. |
| US09464634B2 |
Air-moving assemblies with flywheels
Apparatuses and methods are provided for facilitating air-cooling of, for instance, one or more electronics racks within a data center. The apparatus includes an air-moving assembly and one or more flywheels. The air-moving assembly includes a shaft, one or more mechanical fans coupled to the shaft to rotate, at least in part, with the shaft, and a motor coupled to the shaft to rotatably drive the shaft. The flywheel(s) is sized and coupled to the shaft of the air-moving assembly to store rotational energy, and to facilitate, for a specified period of time, continued rotation of the shaft during interruption in power to the motor. In one implementation, the flywheel(s) is sized and coupled to the shaft to facilitate, for the specified time period, continued rotation of the shaft at a specified percentage, or greater, rotational speed of the shaft compared with shaft speed when rotatably driven by the motor. |
| US09464632B2 |
Double-helical gear rotary positive displacement pump
The invention relates to a double-helical gear rotary positive displacement pump including a pump housing rotatably supporting at least a driving shaft and at least a driven shaft, at least a first toothing and a second toothing being associated to the driving shaft and at least a third toothing and a fourth toothing being associated to the driven shaft. The toothings have individually a helical profile that allows their mutual herringbone meshing. Three of toothings are rigidly connected to their respective shafts. The fourth toothing, or other suitable one, is idle on the shaft and axially constrained. |
| US09464630B2 |
Low ice pneumatic motor exhaust muffler
A muffler for a positive displacement pneumatic motor includes a case, an inlet, a diffuser, a pathway, and sound absorbing material. The inlet and the diffuser are attached to the case. The pathway extends between the inlet and the diffuser and allows ice to travel through the muffler. The sound absorbing material is positioned in the pathway and includes more than one duct through which gas passes. |
| US09464621B2 |
Trillium wind turbine
A trillium wind turbine can have a plurality of blades. Together, the swept-back, complexly-curved blades can be attached to an electricity-generating nacelle. Each blade has a main blade, and a trailing edge blade, and can optionally have a diversion blade. Wind is directed down the length of the blade and exits the tip. The main blade resembles a portion of a cylinder in form, the cylinder being twisted to change the angle of attack, thereby adding more lift throughout the length of the blade. The trailing edge and diversion blades are pitched relative to the wind and produce lift. Additionally, wind hitting the diversion blade is diverted behind the blade. Because the surface area and volume of the blade are larger near the base and smaller at the tip, the air traveling along the blade increases in velocity producing more thrust/lift. The turbine also automatically faces into the wind without the need for sensors or positioning motors. |
| US09464620B2 |
Wave energy machine
This invention relates to a device and method for extracting energy from surface waves in a body of water, for example, the sea. A wave energy device (1) for extracting energy from surface waves in a body of water includes an elongate and flexible tubular body (2) having an outer wall (4) and within the outer wall a channel (6) that extends along the length of the tubular body (2). The device is positioned in a body of water so that, in use, the elongate body (2) extends along the water surface (15) in the direction of surface waves with water contained within the channel being driven to form a series of bulge waves that travel along the length of the channel as the tubular body flexibly follows the movement of the waves. The device harnesses energy from the bulge waves for providing useful power. |
| US09464613B2 |
Fuel injector equipped with a metering servovalve for an internal combustion engine
A fuel injector has an injector body and a control rod, which is movable in the injector body along an axis to control the opening/closing of a nozzle that injects fuel into a cylinder of the engine; the injector body houses a metering servovalve having a control chamber, which is axially delimited by the control rod and communicates with an inlet and with a discharge channel; the metering servovalve is provided with a shutter, which slides axially on an axial guide, from which the discharge channel exits, to open and close the discharge channel and, in consequence, vary the pressure in the control chamber; the discharge channel has three restrictions having calibrated passage sections and arranged in series with each other to divide the pressure drop along the discharge channel. |
| US09464608B2 |
Air cleaner for vehicles
A vehicular air cleaner may include: a body having an air inlet port; a cover coupled to a body and having an air outlet port; an element inserted into or drawn from the body and the cover through a access port formed in one side of the body and the cover; a positioning assembly rotatably coupled to a lower portion of the element and vertically moving the element by rotation; and an element cover coupled to the body and the cover to prevent the element from being separated from the access port, wherein the positioning assembly includes driving shafts each fitted with fixing brackets formed on a flange along a side direction of the element, and a driven shaft fitted with a fixing bracket formed on a flange along a front side of the element and having ends rotatably engaged with a pair of driving shafts. |
| US09464604B2 |
Intake system for internal combustion engine
An intake system includes an intake passage for leading intake air to an internal combustion engine; an air cleaner connected to the upstream side end portion of the intake passage. A pressure sensor measures pressure of intake air in the intake passage. An air cleaner case includes a case main body mounted to the upstream side end portion of the intake passage. A cover portion closes the case main body. The intake system includes a throttle body constituting part of the intake passage and having a throttle valve. The pressure sensor is mounted to a support portion extending outward from the case main body and is connected to the downstream side of the throttle valve. |
| US09464602B2 |
Exhaust flap device for an internal combustion engine
An exhaust flap device for an internal combustion engine includes a flap housing and an actuator. The flap housing comprises an exhaust gas duct arranged in the flap housing. The exhaust gas duct is configured to have an exhaust gas flow there-through. An exhaust flap is arranged in the exhaust gas duct and is mounted in the flap housing. The exhaust flap is configured to rotate. A coolant duct is arranged in the flap housing so as to at least partially surround the exhaust flap. The actuator comprises an electric motor and an actuator housing which comprises an actuator coolant duct. The actuator is configured to drive the exhaust flap. The coolant duct arranged in the flap housing is configured to be in a direct fluid communication with the actuator coolant duct. |
| US09464588B2 |
Systems and methods for electronically controlling fuel-to-air ratio for an internal combustion engine
Systems and methods for electronically controlling the fuel-to-air ratio of a fuel mixture supplied to an internal combustion engines are disclosed. In one aspect, electronic control systems and methods are provided that determine and automatically move a choke valve in accordance with a first ramp having a first characteristic that is dependent on engine temperature and ambient air temperature. In another aspect, an integrated ignition and electronic auto-choke module is provided. In yet another aspect, electronic control systems and methods are provided that dynamically control a movement characteristic of a choke valve using a feedback loop. |
| US09464587B2 |
Method for operating an internal combustion engine for favorable exhaust gas treatment
The invention discloses a method for operating a drive device (10), in particular in a motor vehicle, comprising an internal combustion engine (12) and at least one further drive assembly (28) which is not an internal combustion engine (12), wherein an exhaust gas from the internal combustion engine (12) is treated by means of an exhaust gas treatment system (16), and wherein it is checked whether the internal combustion engine (12) is in an operating point defined as favorable for the exhaust gas treatment, and wherein then if it is found that the internal combustion engine (12) is not in an operating point defined as favorable for the exhaust gas treatment, the operating point of the internal combustion engine (12) is brought using the further drive assembly (28) into a range defined as favorable for the exhaust gas treatment. |
| US09464583B2 |
Cylinder pressure based control of dual fuel engines
Systems and methods for controlling operation of dual fuel internal combustion engines in response to cylinder pressure based determinations are disclosed. The techniques control fuelling contributions from a first fuel source and a second fuel source to achieve desired operational outcomes in response to the cylinder pressure based determinations. |
| US09464579B2 |
Isothermal compression based combustion engine
Systems and methods are disclosed that include operating an isothermal compression based combustion (IsoC) engine by injecting isothermally compressed air into a combustion engine immediately prior to a combustion event in order to increase the efficiency of the engine, improve emissions, and substantially eliminate autoignition and associated design constraints. The IsoC engine utilizes an intercooled compressor to isothermally compress air that is stored in a plurality of capacitance tanks prior to delivery of the compressed air to the combustion engine. The IsoC engine allows combustion to be selectively terminated to increase fuel efficiency, thereby resulting in a hybrid compressed air-motor and internal combustion operated IsoC engine. |
| US09464576B2 |
System and method for operating a power plant
A system including a fuel-supply system including, an auxiliary-fuel-gas compressor configured to compress a fuel for use by a gas-turbine system, an expander configured to generate power by expanding an oxidant from the gas-turbine system, and a motor/generator configured to function in a motor mode and in a generator mode, wherein the motor/generator drives fuel compression with the auxiliary fuel-gas compressor in the motor mode, and the motor/generator generates power in the generator mode as the expander uses oxidant from the gas-turbine system to drive the motor/generator. |
| US09464573B2 |
Method for operating a gas turbine engine, power supplying device for conducting such method and aircraft using such method
A power supply device or system for aeronautics, having a hydrocarbon supply for supplying an engine with hydrocarbon fuel and a hydrogen supply having a fuel reformer for producing hydrogen from hydrocarbon fuel from said hydrocarbon supply. The hydrogen supply is connected to a hydrogen-powered fuel cell for producing electric power and to a hydrogen injecting system for injection of hydrogen into a combustion chamber of the engine. Further, the invention relates to an aircraft having an engine that can be supplied by that power supplying device or system, and to a method for operating said engine. |
| US09464572B2 |
Oil tank and scavenge pipe assembly of a gas turbine engine and method of delivering an oil and air mixture to same
An oil tank and scavenge pipe assembly of a gas turbine engine comprises a tank, and a scavenge pipe having a discharge portion disposed inside the tank. The discharge portion comprises a first portion having first and second ends. The first end is adapted to connect to an oil return line for receiving a mixture of oil and air. A bend extends from the second end downstream thereof relative to a flow of the mixture of oil and air through the scavenge pipe. The bend is configured to cause stratification of the mixture of oil and air as the mixture of oil and air flows through it. An outlet downstream of the bend delivers the mixture of oil and air to the tank. A method of delivering an oil and air mixture to a rotating oil volume of a tank of a gas turbine engine is also presented. |
| US09464571B2 |
Fossil fuel-fired power station having a removal apparatus for carbon dioxide and process for separating carbon dioxide from an offgas from a fossil fuel-fired power station
A fossil fuel-fired power station having a removal apparatus for carbon dioxide which is located downstream of a combustion facility and through which an offgas containing carbon dioxide may flow is provided. The removal apparatus comprises an absorption unit and a desorption unit. The desorption unit is connected to a renewable energy source. |
| US09464569B2 |
Digital hydraulic opposed free piston engines and methods
Digital hydraulic opposed free piston internal combustion engines having a pair of free pistons in a pair of cylinders defining a combustion chamber above each free piston. The pair of free pistons is arranged to move within the pair of cylinders with parallel axes of free piston motion, and preferably co-linear axes of free piston motion. At least one hydraulic plunger is under each free piston with each hydraulic plunger in a respective hydraulic cylinder. The hydraulic cylinders are coupled to electronically controlled hydraulic cylinder valving. A controller controls the electronically controlled hydraulic cylinder valving to control the pair of free pistons to have substantially equal and opposite motions. |
| US09464564B2 |
System and method for estimating a turbine outlet temperature or a turbine inlet temperature based on a wastegate command
A system according to the principles of the present disclosure includes a boost control module and a temperature estimation module. The boost control module generates a wastegate command signal to control a position of a wastegate and thereby adjust an amount of exhaust gas allowed to bypass a turbine of a turbocharger through the wastegate. The temperature estimation module estimates at least one of a first temperature downstream from the turbine and a second temperature upstream from the turbine based on the wastegate command signal. |
| US09464562B2 |
Variable valve system to reduce condensation in a charge air cooler
Methods and systems are provided for regulating air flow through a charge air cooler. In one example, an air flow regulating element may be positioned in a tank of the charge air cooler, the air flow regulating element including a cylindrical barrel valve rotatable about a rotational axis to adjust air flow through cooling tubes in the charge air cooler. A position of the barrel valve may be based on a mass air flow rate and/or a temperature at an outlet of the charge air cooler. |
| US09464557B2 |
Muffler shield and muffler assembly employing the same
In one or more embodiments, a muffler shield includes a shield body extending in a longitudinal direction and defining a middle portion positioned between first and second side portions along a transverse direction, a cross-section of the middle portion and at least one of the first and second side portions respectively defining a middle profile and a side profile shorter than the middle profile. |
| US09464556B2 |
High-temperature sensor for arrangement in a metal tube, especially inside the exhaust gas system of an internal combustion engine
The invention relates to a high-temperature sensor comprising contact wires in a metal tube, preferably a bent metal tube for arrangement especially inside the exhaust gas system of an internal combustion engine, and spacer bodies distributed in rows along the contact wires so as to maintain the contact wires at a predetermined distance to the inner wall of the metal tube. According to the invention, every spacer body is approximately ovoid, the diameter of the center portion of the egg being not wider than the inside width of the as yet unbent metal tube. The spacer bodies are injection-molded polymer ceramic parts molded onto the contact wires. |
| US09464553B2 |
Power generation system
An internal combustion engine is powered on or using a mix of a liquid fuel and hydrogen, to produce energy that is converted into electricity using an alternator, which is subsequently used to produce hydrogen. The hydrogen is produced through the use of hydrogen generating cells which breaks down water using electrolysis and outputs hydrogen. The cell uses anode rods inserted into a tank containing cathode tubes. Additionally, the tank itself also acts as the cathode as the tank is connected to the negative end of a circuit. A current passes from the anode rods to the cathode through water to produce hydrogen. Hydrogen is off gassed and stored in a reservoir to be used in an internal combustion engine as fuel. The energy needed to perform electrolysis is garnered from an alternator and a turbine that is part of the system. |
| US09464549B2 |
Electrically heated catalyst device and its manufacturing method
An electrically heated catalyst device includes a catalyst support, a surface electrode disposed on an outer surface of the catalyst support and extending in an axis direction of the catalyst support, a wiring line member including a root section extending in the axis direction of the catalyst support and comb teeth-like wiring lines extending from the root section in a circumference direction of the catalyst support and fixed to the surface electrode, an outer cylinder covering an outer surface of the catalyst support, and a holding member holding the catalyst support and packed between the catalyst support and the outer cylinder, in which the catalyst support is heated by feeding a current through the surface electrode and the wiring line member. A slit extending from an outer edge in the circumferential direction of the catalyst support is formed in the root section of the wiring line member. |
| US09464544B2 |
Variable valve lift apparatus of engine
A variable valve lift apparatus of an engine includes a first body rotated at within a preset angle range by rotating a high-speed cam coupled to a camshaft, a second body coupled to the first body or decoupled from the first body and rotated within a preset angle range by rotating a low-cam coupled to the camshaft when the second body is decoupled from the first body, a latching pin provided retractably forward of the first body such that the first body is coupled to or decoupled from the second body, and an actuating unit to retractably actuate the latching pin. The degree of the lift of the valve is variably controlled in two stages of high-speed and low-speed modes through the rotary motion of the high speed cam or low speed cam by coupling or decoupling the first and second bodies to or from each other. |
| US09464543B2 |
Valve opening/closing timing control device
In a valve opening/closing timing control device, a fluid pressure chamber formed by a drive-side rotating and a driven-side rotating body is divided into an advance chamber and a delay chamber. The valve opening/closing timing control device includes an intermediate lock mechanism; an electromagnetic valve; a phase detection sensor; and a control unit that issues a command to the electromagnetic valve to switch a working fluid supply destination to a working fluid supply destination at which the driven-side rotating body shifts to an intermediate lock phase, when a relative rotation phase at the startup of an engine is positioned toward a most delayed phase or a most advanced phase with respect to the intermediate lock phase in case of the electromagnetic valve that sets the working fluid supply destination to the delay chamber or the advance chamber when supply of electric power to the electromagnetic valve is stopped. |
| US09464542B2 |
Variable valve timing apparatus for internal combustion engine
A variable valve timing apparatus includes: a variable valve timing mechanism; an intermediate locking mechanism that locks the valve timing at an intermediate timing; and a hydraulic pressure supply device that hydraulically actuates these mechanisms. The hydraulic pressure supply device uses a single oil control valve to control a state where lubricating oil is supplied to or drained from each of an advance chamber, a retard chamber and an intermediate chamber of an intermediate locking mechanism. The oil control valve has first to fourth modes. The oil control valve advances the valve timing and actuates the intermediate locking mechanism in a projecting direction in the third mode, and, under a situation that the amount of lubricating oil supplied to the variable valve timing mechanism is smaller than that in the third mode, advances the valve timing and actuates the intermediate locking mechanism in a release direction in the fourth mode. |
| US09464541B2 |
Control device of internal combustion engine and variable valve device of internal combustion engine
A control device of an internal combustion engine includes: a variable valve device including: first and second rocker arms; a cam; a rocker shaft provided with a lubricating oil passage; a pin switching the first and second rocker arms between a coupling state and a non-coupling state; a biasing member biasing the pin; a switching oil passage capable of supplying oil pressure to the pin in a direction opposite to a biasing direction; a lash adjuster; and a supplying oil passage, capable of supplying oil pressure to the pin in the biasing direction of the biasing member and supplying oil pressure into the lash adjuster, a hydraulic pump; an oil pressure control valve; and a control unit controlling the oil pressure control valve to always supply the supplying oil passage with oil pressure higher than oil pressure within the lubricating oil passage, during driving of an internal combustion engine. |
| US09464540B2 |
Transfer assembly for a mechanically controllable valve train
A transfer assembly for a mechanically controllable valve train includes a transfer member in which a valve lift adjusting device is integrated. The transfer member is configured to be operatively connected to at least one gas exchange valve directly or indirectly via a coupling element, to be movably supported in a cylinder head via a bearing, and to be operatively connected to a camshaft and to the valve lift adjusting device so that different maximum lifts of the gas exchange valve can be set. |
| US09464531B2 |
Locking spacer assembly
Locking spacer assemblies, rotor assemblies and turbomachines are provided. In one embodiment, a locking spacer assembly includes a first end piece and a second end piece each configured to fit into a space between platforms of adjacent rotor blades, the first end piece and second end piece each comprising an outer surface and an inner surface, the outer surface having a profile adapted to project into an attachment slot, wherein the inner surfaces of the first and second end pieces generally face each other. The locking spacer assembly further includes an actuator movable between the inner surfaces, the actuator comprising a projection configured to engage the inner surface, the actuator further comprising a plurality of locating protrusions extending from the projection, the locating protrusions configured to fit within locating channels defined in the first end piece and the second end piece. |
| US09464530B2 |
Turbine bucket and method for balancing a tip shroud of a turbine bucket
The present application and the resultant patent provide a turbine bucket for a gas turbine engine. The turbine bucket may include an airfoil, a tip shroud positioned radially outward from the airfoil, and a seal rail positioned radially outward from the tip shroud and extending in a generally tangential direction from a first end to a second end of the tip shroud. The seal rail may include a maximum axial thickness at a location positioned between the first end and the second end and offset from the airfoil in the generally tangential direction. The present application and the resultant patent further provide a gas turbine engine and a method for balancing a tip shroud of a turbine bucket of a gas turbine engine. |
| US09464520B2 |
Method of incorporating remote communication with oilfield tubular handling apparatus
Apparatus and corresponding method for remotely communicating with a device in a wellbore, comprising: an oilfield tubular handling apparatus (200); partial toroidal coil sections (304) integrated with the oilfield tubular handling apparatus, wherein the partial toroidal coil sections form a toroidal coil upon a tubular member (102) with the handling apparatus; and a microcontroller for communicating with the device via at least one of signals transmitted or received through the tubular member using the toroidal coil. |
| US09464517B2 |
Real time well data alerts
An apparatus for remote monitoring of well operations. The apparatus may include an alerts module positioned proximate a well, at least one well parameter sensor in communication with the alerts module, and a well operation control module in communication with the alerts module. The apparatus may further include a remotely positioned well monitoring station in communication with the alerts module, and a plurality of user terminal in communication with the well monitoring station. |
| US09464515B2 |
Hydrocarbon resource heating system including RF antennas driven at different phases and related methods
A system for heating hydrocarbon resources in a subterranean formation having spaced-apart wellbores therein aligned in a plane may include radio frequency (RF) antennas to be positioned within respective ones of the spaced apart wellbores aligned in the plane. The system may also include a plurality of discrete RF sources each coupled to one of the RF antennas and configured so that the RF antennas are driven at a same frequency as each other RF antenna but at different phases. |