| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09517794B2 |
Offset compensation for trailer backup assist steering input device
A trailer backup assist system for a vehicle reversing a trailer, according to one embodiment, includes a sensor that senses a hitch angle between the vehicle and the trailer. The trailer backup assist system may also include a steering input device, such as a rotatable knob, that is movable between a plurality of positions that each provide a desired curvature of the trailer. In addition, the trailer backup assist system may include a controller that determines an offset of the desired curvature when the knob is stationary in a central position. The control then generates a steering command for the vehicle to guide the trailer on the desired curvature, taking into consideration the offset. |
| US09517792B2 |
Clearance compensator of yoke
A yoke clearance compensator is disclosed. It includes a yoke body installed in a housing of a steering gear box to support a rack bar; an elastic member to press the yoke body toward the rack bar; a press portion contacted with the elastic member to support the elastic member; and a yoke plug portion fixed to the housing to adjust the strength of supporting the elastic member by the press portion. |
| US09517791B1 |
Detachable assembly
A detachable assembly including: a detachable frame including elongated opposing side portions; an assembly structure affixed to the detachable frame, the assembly structure and the detachable frame defining a detachable portion of the detachable assembly; a mounted elongated track assembly, the elongated track assembly having opposing tubular tracks having interior slots adapted to receive the elongated opposing tubular side portions of the detachable frame in a sliding relationship. |
| US09517789B2 |
Infant stroller apparatus
An infant stroller apparatus includes a stroller frame, two first seat mounts respectively affixed with the stroller frame at a left and a right side thereof, and two second seat mounts respectively affixed with the stroller frame and arranged behind the first seat mounts. Each of the first seat mounts is positionable to protrude upward, the first seat mounts being configured to detachably engage with any of a stroller seat and an infant car seat as a first seat. Each of the second seat mounts is positionable to protrude upward, the second seat mounts being configured to detachably engage with any of a stroller seat and an infant car seat as a second seat. |
| US09517788B2 |
Baby carriage
A baby carriage is provided in the invention, the frame of the baby carriage comprises a left support frame and a right support frame symmetrical to each other, and a connecting frame connected between the left and right support frames. The left support frame comprises a left front frame, a left rear frame, a left rod, a left connecting rod with a front portion being rotatably connected with the left front frame, a left pull rod rotatably connected with the left rear frame and a left push rod frame rotatably connected with the upper portion of the left rod. The left pull rod is rotatably connected with the rear portion of the left connecting rod and the lower portion of the left push rod frame is rotatably connected with the upper portion of the left pull rod. |
| US09517787B2 |
Baby stroller
Strollers are described that may be used as single strollers or may be reversibly connected together to form a double stroller. Strollers may comprise complementary connectors to be reversibly connected two single strollers in a side-by-side configuration with the rear wheels of the single strollers are interlocked to reduce the overall width of the double stroller. Further, single strollers may comprise complementary connectors to be reversibly connoted two single strollers in a train configuration with the front wheels of the single strollers interlocked to reduce the overall length of the double stroller. Additionally, single strollers may be produced with sets of connectors such that they may connected in either the side-by-side configuration or the train configuration. |
| US09517785B2 |
Apparatus for conveying goods and/or a person
A conveying apparatus comprising a first frame part and a second frame part, each frame part has roller elements on one end and the frame parts movable relative to one another, a guide handle provided on a first end of the first frame part, a footboard provided on the second end of the first frame part, a handhold provided on the first frame part between the guide handle and the footboard, and a transport container suitable for transporting wares fastened to both the first frame part and the second frame part. |
| US09517783B2 |
Modification for a hand truck
Various embodiments provide for a bottom bracket coupled to a ledge of a hand truck and configured to engage/secure a heavy-duty tripod. In such embodiments, the bottom bracket may prevent the tripod from accidently slipping off of the ledge while the hand truck is in motion. The bottom bracket may include a front plate, a back plate, and a gap formed between the front plate and the back plate. A first portion of the gap may be configured to receive a first foot of the tripod, and a second portion of the gap may be configured to receive a second foot of the tripod. Once the feet are placed into the first and second portions of the gap, the tripod may be held firmly in place between the front plate and the second plate. |
| US09517778B2 |
Railway passenger gate assembly
A railway passenger gate assembly includes a platform having a well extending into a surface thereof. A housing is positioned within the well and has an open apex flush with the upper surface. A pair of vertically oriented cylinders is positioned within the housing. A conduit is in fluid communication with each of the cylinders. Each of the cylinders has one of a pair of pistons positioned therein. The pistons each have a bottom end and a top end. Each of the top ends has one of a pair of posts attached thereto. A railing is attached to and extends between the posts. The pistons are movable from a stored position with the railing being approximately flush with the upper surface or in a deployed position positioned above the upper surface. A pump in fluid communication with the cylinders forces fluid into the cylinders to urge the pistons upwardly. |
| US09517771B2 |
Autonomous vehicle modes
A vehicle operator is identified. Based at least in part on the operator's identity, one or more parameters are determined specifying a mode for autonomously operating the vehicle. The vehicle is autonomously operated at least in part according to the one or more parameters. |
| US09517767B1 |
Internal safety systems for robotic vehicles
Systems, apparatus and methods implemented in algorithms, hardware, software, firmware, logic, or circuitry may be configured to process data and sensory input to determine whether an object external to an autonomous vehicle (e.g., another vehicle, a pedestrian, road debris, a bicyclist, etc.) may be a potential collision threat to the autonomous vehicle. The autonomous vehicle may be configured to implement interior active safety systems to protect passengers of the autonomous vehicle during a collision with an object or during evasive maneuvers by the autonomous vehicle, for example. The interior active safety systems may be configured to provide passengers with notice of an impending collision and/or emergency maneuvers by the vehicle by tensioning seat belts prior to executing an evasive maneuver and/or prior to a predicted point of collision. |
| US09517762B2 |
Control apparatus for internal combustion engine
A control apparatus of the invention is applied to a three-cylinder internal combustion engine that is mounted in a vehicle and in which a first MG is connected to a crankshaft in a manner capable of transmitting power. When stopping the internal combustion engine, a vehicle control unit controls output torque of the first MG such that the internal combustion engine is stopped in a state where a preset particular cylinder is in a compression stroke. The particular cylinder is a cylinder in which a mutually weakening relationship is established between a vibration component that is generated due to precession in the internal combustion engine when the internal combustion engine is started from the state where this particular cylinder is in the compression stroke and a vibration component that is predicted to be generated in the vehicle when it is assumed that torque to be applied to the crankshaft at a startup of the internal combustion engine is applied to the crankshaft in a state where a piston and a connecting rod of each cylinder are detached. |
| US09517760B2 |
Hybrid vehicle
A hybrid vehicle according to one embodiment of the present invention has: an internal combustion engine including an in-cylinder fuel injection valve and a crank ventilation system; a motor; a power transmission mechanism connecting a drive shaft of the vehicle and the engine to allow torque transmission therebetween and connecting the drive shaft and the motor to allow torque transmission therebetween; and a control device. The control device controls output torques of the engine and the motor so as to exert an equal torque to a user requiring torque on the drive shaft. Furthermore, the control device stops the engine when an engine stop condition that included a condition that a coolant water temperature is equal to or higher than an intermittency allowance temperature, and start the engine when an engine start condition is satisfied. |
| US09517758B2 |
Vehicle braking device
The vehicle braking device includes a hydraulic pressure generating device generating a primary hydraulic pressure corresponding to the braking operation by a driver, a motor cylinder device operating to cause the secondary hydraulic pressure generated by operation of the electric motor to track the target hydraulic pressure based on the control operation quantity, a brake pedal sensor detecting the braking operation quantity, a primary hydraulic pressure sensor, an ECU performing switching control in accordance with whether the braking operation quantity detected by the brake pedal sensor reaches a predetermined threshold value, between operating the motor cylinder device on the basis of the braking operation quantity and operating the motor cylinder device on the basis of a correlation value of the braking operation force detected by the motor cylinder device 16 or the correlation value and the braking operation quantity. |
| US09517757B2 |
Hydraulic block for a hydraulic assembly of a slip-regulated, hydraulic vehicle brake system, and a hydraulic vehicle brake system
A hydraulic block for a hydraulic assembly of a slip-regulated, hydraulic vehicle brake system, comprises a first plurality of receivers aligned in a first row that are each configured to fluidly connect to a respective brake pressure, and a second plurality of receivers aligned in a parallel second row that are each configured to fluidly connect to a respective brake pressure reduction valve. The second row is spaced from the first row in a first direction. The hydraulic block further comprises a first further receiver that fluidly connects to a brake master cylinder pressure sensor. The first further receiver is located perpendicularly offset from the first row in a second direction opposite the first direction and within a plane extending between two of the first plurality of receivers and between two of the second plurality of receivers and that is outside of a center plane defined by the hydraulic block. |
| US09517756B2 |
Method and system for operating a motor vehicle brake system
A brake system for a motor vehicle having front and rear axles, the brake system having front and rear axle braking mechanisms operated under pressure control devices for producing a respective brake pressure on the front and rear axles of the motor vehicle. A controller receives signal information from sensors and systems on the motor vehicle to detect initiation of a braking process and detect a current speed of travel of the motor vehicle. An initial brake pressure for the rear axle braking mechanism is determined by the controller. A target brake pressure for the rear axle braking mechanism is determined by the controller and is representative of an increase in pressure relative to the initial brake pressure and the current speed of travel. Instructions from the controller operate the pressure control devices to produce the target brake pressure at the rear axle braking mechanism. |
| US09517754B2 |
Electric parking brake control device
The electric parking brake control device performs accelerator release control for moving a friction-applying member to a standby position when a vehicle starting operation is performed, the standby position being positioned between a locked position and a released position such that friction-applying member moves from the standby position to the locked position within a time which is shorter than a time required to move from the released position to the locked position. The electric parking brake control device determines whether it is unnecessary to maintain the standby position, based on whether a state in which a vehicle speed exceeds a specific speed threshold value is maintained for a predetermined period of time. The release control is performed when the electric parking brake control device determines that it is unnecessary to maintain the standby position. |
| US09517753B2 |
Manual brake release mechanism for rail vehicles
A spring-biased lever arm mechanism for operating an operating lever of a parking brake release mechanism. The lever arm mechanism includes a lever arm mounted on a pivot pin, a torsion spring disposed on the pivot pin, and first and second cable release mechanism. A manually operated parking brake release mechanism is also provided for a railway vehicle including a brake actuator, an operating lever associated with the brake actuator to manually release an applied braking force, and the spring-biased lever arm mechanism for operating the operating lever. |
| US09517752B2 |
Wiper blade adapter unit
The invention relates to a wiper blade adapter unit for connecting a wiper blade (10) to a wiper arm adapter (12), comprising a main part (16) which receives an end (14) of the wiper arm adapter (12) in particular and which has a plateau (20) on the main part lower face (18). At least one region (22, 24, 26) is provided on the main part (16), said region being designed in a flexible manner for the purpose of a shape and/or tolerance compensation. The region (22) that is flexible for the purpose of a shape and/or tolerance compensation is arranged within the plateau (20). |
| US09517751B2 |
Mechanism for dynamically varying blade load over a windshield wiper sweep cycle
A wiper arm assembly has a load member, a wiper arm, and a blade load cam with a cam slot. The load member mates with a joint disposed between first and second ends of the wiper arm. Changes in length of the load member impose a force in a lengthwise direction of the load member. The wiper arm is configured to rotate relative to the blade load cam about an axis proximate to the first end of the wiper arm. The cam slot is configured to vary the length of the load member as a function of a wiper angle in which the wiper angle is defined as the angle between the wiper arm and a starting position of the wiper arm. |
| US09517748B2 |
Quick-release fastener for one end of a seat belt fastened to a vehicle in a motor vehicle
A quick-release fastener for a vehicle seat belt (21) with a fitting part (1), and a fastening part (7). The fitting part (1) has a first opening (2), and a second opening (3), in which the fastening part (7) can be locked to a locking head (6). The fastening part (7) can be inserted into the opening (3) in which a spring element (14) is arranged in an assembly position (I), and the spring element (14) can be moved into the locked position (II). A housing (100) is adapted to the shape of the fitting part (1) with the locking head (6) retained therein. The mounting (112) is shaped n such that the fitting part (I) with the locking head (6) can be completely received in the mounting (112) only when the locking head (6) is in the locked position (II). |
| US09517747B2 |
Side airbag apparatus
An airbag of a side airbag apparatus includes an upstream inflation portion, which inflates by inflation gas, and deploys frontward at a side of a vehicle seat. An opening is provided at a wall portion of the upstream inflation portion. A pressure regulator valve closes before an occupant is restrained by the upstream inflation portion, thereby restricting the inflation gas in the upstream inflation portion from flowing through the opening. Upon the occupant restraint, the pressure regulator valve cancels the restriction in response to a change in a tensed state of the dividing portion by an external force applied due to the restraint. A tear seam that connects valve body portions of the pressure regulator valve delays the opening time of the pressure regulator valve upon the occupant restraint by the upstream inflation portion relative to the opening time set only by the pressure regulator valve. |
| US09517744B2 |
Vehicle occupant protection device
A vehicle occupant protection device includes: a vehicle seat belt device containing a seat belt configured to restrain a occupant seating on a vehicle seat; an airbag which is provided on the seat belt in a folded state and in which the inside of an upper bag portion for restraining a head communicates with the inside of a lower bag portion for restraining a chest and an abdomen via a communicating portion; and an inflator which supplies gas into the lower bag portion when activated. |
| US09517743B2 |
Vehicle interior structure
A vehicle interior structure has a driver's seat disposed inside a cabin, a rear passenger's seat disposed on a vehicle rear side of the driver's seat inside the cabin, a partition wall member extending in a vehicle width direction between the driver's seat and the rear passenger's seat, and an inside handle for opening that opens a door on a side of the rear passenger's seat. The inside handle is set at a position rearward of and close to a vehicle outer end portion of the partition wall member in the vehicle width direction. The partition wall member includes an inclining surface portion inclining such that the inclining surface portion becomes closer to a vehicle front side as extending toward a vehicle center from the vehicle outer end portion. |
| US09517742B2 |
Shock absorber member for vehicle, vehicle door panel assembly including shock absorber member and vehicle including door panel assembly
A vehicle door panel shock absorber having a outer wall and first and second reinforcing wings each extending between two opposite ends which are unitary with the outer wall, the first and second reinforcing wings crossing themselves at a center inside the outer wall and being unitary with one another at this center. |
| US09517735B2 |
Interior material
A door lining serving as an interior material comprises a door center portion. The door center portion is provided with: a door center base material; a door center pad supported by the door center base material and configured to be elastically deformable; a door center surface skin material covering the door center pad; and a sewed portion formed by sewing the door center pad and the door center surface skin material together by a sewing thread. In the door center pad, a thick section and a thin section are formed, and the sewed portion is provided in the thin section. |
| US09517734B2 |
Camera for a vehicle and vehicle having the camera
A camera for a vehicle, the camera including: an image sensor; and a camera lens system for imaging a coverage region on the image sensor; the camera lens system having at least one lens; and the camera lens system and the image sensor determining an optical axis of the camera. In this connection, The camera lens system further includes a nonplanar reflector element which deflects the optical axis of the camera. |
| US09517730B2 |
Panel shelf system
A load panel shelf assembly includes a shelf frame, at least one panel, a mounting rail, and a hinge assembly. The shelf frame is composed of a plurality of frame segments. The at least one panel is fitted within the shelf frame to form a shelf surface. The mounting rail is configured to attach to a sidewall of a transport vehicle and includes a shelf support configured to support a portion of the shelf frame. The mounting rail includes a mounting rail receiver and the at least one of the frame segments includes a frame segment receiver. The hinge assembly includes first and second hinge segments which are pivotally connectable by a pivot pin disposed through both the first and second hinge segments. The first hinge segment and the second hinge segment each have a cross-section profile that is configured to fit into the cross-section profiles of the mounting rail receiver and the frame segment receiver, respectively. |
| US09517727B2 |
Pocket forming trim panel for a vehicle door and method
A pocket forming trim panel for a vehicle door is provided. The pocket forming trim panel includes a panel portion and a pocket enclosure portion. The panel portion is configured to form a pocket opening. The pocket enclosure portion has a pocket floor portion and a pocket wall portion. The pocket enclosure portion is foldable with respect to the panel portion to complete the formation of a pocket on the door. |
| US09517725B2 |
Auto revising system for around view monitoring and method thereof
An auto revising system for around view monitoring (AVM) includes: one or more target members provided in a space in which a vehicle is assembled, as a reference for a position of the vehicle; a control unit configured to control an AVM system which is installed in the vehicle; and a revising robot unit configured to interface with the control unit to automatically revise a screen of the AVM system based on the one or more target members. |
| US09517721B2 |
Vehicle sunroof with switchable glazing and side-firing light emitting diodes
Certain example embodiments relate to a vehicle window (e.g., sunroof). Side-firing LEDs are provided between first and second substantially parallel substrates and emit light towards central regions of the window. A liquid-crystal inclusive switchable film is provided between the first and second substrates. The liquid crystals are sized such that light received from the LEDs is redirected in a direction substantially normal to major surfaces of the first and second substrates. The switchable film is operable in at least first and second modes, with the window in the first mode having a visible transmission of less than 1%, and with the window in the second mode having a visible transmission of 7-15%. The switchable film and the LEDs are operable independently of one another in connection with the LEDs emitting light and the switchable film controlling visible transmission therethrough. |
| US09517715B1 |
Light driver arrangements for vehicle headlamps
A vehicle headlamp system can include a plurality of low beam light sources and a plurality of high beam light sources. In one or more arrangements, the light sources can be light emitting diodes. The system can include a first light driver operatively connected to selectively supply electrical energy to a first group of low beam light sources and/or a first group of high beam light sources. The system can include a second light driver operatively connected to selectively supply electrical energy to a second group of low beam light sources and/or a second group of high beam light sources. The system can further include a controller. The controller can be operatively connected to the first light driver and the second light driver to control the selective supply of electrical energy by the first light driver and the second light driver. |
| US09517713B2 |
Rotatable cargo platform for trailer vehicle
A modular trailer vehicle is provided comprises a wheeled trailer chassis having a forward vehicle attachment, along with a rotatable cargo platform attached to the chassis for supporting cargo hauled thereon. The rotatable cargo platform is rotatably mounted to a hydraulically actuated turntable, which facilitates rotation of the platform from a position in alignment with the chassis to a position wherein the loading ramp is positioned off to the side of the trailer. The platform is capable of complete rotation about a central axis defined by the turntable center, wherein at least two hydraulic arms actuate the turntable, which supports the rotatably platform using a bearing assembly attached to the trailer chassis. |
| US09517712B1 |
Multi-vehicle retention grommet
A retention grommet has a bottom grommet and a top grommet. A floor cover retention flange extends radially outwardly from an outer sidewall of the bottom grommet. The outer sidewall extends upwardly from the retention flange to a hinge plane of the bottom grommet. Plural fingers are disposed around the bottom grommet axis so as to be angularly spaced from each other and an inner surface of the outer sidewall. An upper end of each finger is joined to the outer sidewall at the hinge plane. Near a free, downwardly displaced end of each finger, a retention bead is formed to have an upwardly and radially outwardly inclined surface. This surface is capable of engaging with any of several types of vehicle floor cover retention posts. The top grommet fastens to the bottom grommet to secure the vehicle floor cover in place. |
| US09517711B2 |
Tailgate assembly with a step assist handle
A tailgate assembly includes a structure, and a handle assembly attached to the structure. The handle assembly is moveable relative to the structure between a stowed position, an intermediate position, and a deployed position. The handle assembly includes a connecting member that is attached to the structure. The connecting member is rotatable about a first axis relative to the structure. A handle portion is attached to the connecting member, and is rotatable about a second axis relative to the connecting member. The handle portion and the connecting member rotate in unison relative to the structure about the first axis, between the stowed position and the intermediate position, to position the handle portion outside an interior space of the structure. The handle portion rotates relative to the connecting member about the second axis, between the intermediate position and the deployed position, whereby a user may grasp the handle portion. |
| US09517708B2 |
Seat arrangement for a vehicle
Seat arrangement for a vehicle, has a backrest, a headrest which is mounted on the backrest via a height adjustment mechanism, and a neck support which is adjustable in position by use of an adjustment mechanism. The height adjustment mechanism of the headrest and the adjustment mechanism of the neck support may be coupled for a joint adjustment of the headrest and the neck support; and the adjustment mechanism may be decoupled for adjusting only the headrest. |
| US09517703B1 |
Electric vehicle driving range optimization system with dynamic feedback
A method is provided that aids the driver of an electric vehicle (EV) in optimizing their car's driving range. In response to the car's current driving range falling below that required to travel to a destination entered into the EV's control system, for example via the car's navigation system, the system provides the driver with one or more recommendations as to how to increase range, recommendations such as lowering top speed, altering the temperature settings of the car's HVAC system, etc. Additionally, the system provides the driver with real time driving range feedback, thereby helping the driver to evaluate the various recommendations and determine which approach is best suited to the current conditions. |
| US09517701B2 |
Distributed battery management system for remote repletion of electric vehicles
An apparatus for providing transportation includes an electric vehicle having a battery, an electric motor, a transceiver, and a battery manager. The battery manager includes a controller configured to control flow of charge between said battery and the electric motor at least in part in response to information received by the transceiver. |
| US09517700B2 |
Method for the contactless charging of the battery of an electric automobile
A method for contactless charging of the battery of an electric automobile by magnetic induction using a transmitter coil of a charging device and a receiver coil of the vehicle, the method including: controlling a power supply of a converter, at terminals of which the transmitter coil is connected, according to a variable frequency; measuring, in an analog circuit, a value of a current and of a voltage at the terminals of the transmission coil; calculating a phase shift between the current and the voltage; converting the phase shift into a digital value; and locking the variable frequency of the converter to the phase-shift value by digital processing. |
| US09517699B2 |
Motor vehicle having a storage for electric energy
The invention relates to a motor vehicle having a storage for electrical energy, which store is coupled to a coil into which electrical energy can be induced from outside the motor vehicle during a charging process. The vehicle includes a housing in which the coil is arranged, the housing being made of plastic toward the underside of the motor vehicle, and an optical waveguide is arranged in particular between two walls of the housing. When light from a light source is coupled into the optical waveguide and a detector detects the light, damage to the housing can be detected and the induction of electrical energy into the coil at a charging station can optionally be interrupted in order to avoid hazards to persons. |
| US09517695B2 |
Movable display of information in a motor vehicle
At least one display device in a motor vehicle displays graphic information from graphic applications that generate, independently of one another, display contents for an information data set. The graphic applications synchronize themselves by exchanging the information data set or by mutual referencing to the information data set, with the result that firstly one of the applications generates and displays its display content for the information data set in a first region, and then another of the applications generates its display content for the information data set and displays its display content in another region in the passenger compartment. A signaling device signals the synchronization by at least one optical and/or acoustic signal, which is different from the display contents, in the passenger compartment. |
| US09517693B2 |
Convertible tandem axle arrangement and method for converting a tandem axle arrangement to either of a single drive or a dual drive tandem axle arrangement
A drive axle system can be converted between a single drive tandem axle arrangement including a rear drive axle a dual drive tandem axle arrangement. A forward bowl is provided for a forward axle system. One of a geared forward carrier and an ungeared forward carrier is mounted on the forward bowl, depending upon whether a dual drive or a single drive tandem axle arrangement is desired. To convert to the other type of tandem axle arrangement, the one of the geared forward carrier and the ungeared forward carrier is removed from the forward bowl and replaced, with the other one of the geared forward carrier and the ungeared forward carrier. |
| US09517691B1 |
Two motor E-assist AWD
A product may include an engine, and a transmission driven by the engine. An axle assembly may be driven by the engine through the transmission. An electrical machine may be connected to the axle assembly. The electrical machine may selectively drive the axle assembly and may be selectively drivable by the engine through the transmission and the axle assembly. A power transfer unit may be engaged between the electrical machine and the axle assembly. |
| US09517685B2 |
Portable vehicle protection device
A portable vehicle protection device provides a quickly deployed cover for a vehicle to protect against hail damage. The device includes an inflatable chamber. Each of a pair of side flaps is coupled to an associated longitudinal edge of the chamber. Each of a pair of end flaps is coupled to an associated end edge of the chamber. The chamber, the side flaps, and the end flaps define the cover. Each of a plurality of fasteners is coupled to a respective strap extending from one of the end flaps. Each strap is couplable to an associated one of the side flaps such that the chamber extends over a top surface of the vehicle. An inflation mechanism is coupled to the chamber and is in fluid communication with an interior of the chamber wherein the inflation mechanism selectively inflates the chamber upon actuation of the inflation mechanism. |
| US09517683B2 |
Sun tracking tint visor
A light filtering transparent or semitransparent visor intended to prevent flash blindness and other hazards associated with the adverse affects associated with bright lights impacting the eyesight of occupants of a vehicle. In the certain embodiments, the visor comprises a larger, tinted body surrounding a smaller, much more heavily tinted body intended to filter the bright rays of sun to enable safe viewing of the sun through the filter. The entire apparatus is designed to be repositioned directly in the line of sight between the viewer and the sun. |
| US09517682B2 |
Device and method for controlling an electric radiator of an automotive ventilating, heating and/or air-conditioning system
The invention relates to a device for controlling a complementary electric radiator (R) installed in a ventilation system used in the automotive sector, said device including at least two electronic modules each including a computer, a control module (1) capable of sending operating commands to the radiator and a management module (2), which is implemented within the electric radiator (R) in order to manage the operation thereof on the basis of commands received from the control module (1). According to the invention, the control module (1) includes a unit for generating and transmitting a PWM signal representative of the operating commands being sent to the radiator (R) over a communication wire (3) connected to the management module (2) and a unit for reading the signal travelling over the communication wire (3); the management module (2) includes a unit for altering the PWM signal travelling over the communication wire on the basis of detected events in the operation of the radiator (R). |
| US09517678B2 |
High-voltage equipment cooling system for electric vehicle and high-voltage equipment cooling method for electric vehicle
A high-voltage equipment cooling system for electric vehicle and a high-voltage equipment cooling method for electric vehicle are provided to improve the performance of an air-conditioning unit in the vehicle compartment, while cooling the high-voltage equipment. More specifically, the high-voltage equipment cooling system for electric vehicle includes a motor 103, a high-voltage equipment 101, a blowing means for high-voltage equipment 30, an outlet valve 50, an air conditioning means 10, and an air inlet mode selection means 20, wherein the air outside the vehicle compartment is introduced by the air inlet mode selection means 20 when supplying air cooled by an evaporator 14 in the air conditioning means 10 to the high-voltage equipment 101 using the blowing means for high-voltage equipment 30. |
| US09517676B2 |
Method and device for stabilizing a vehicle against rolling movements
An anti-rolling stabilizer for a motor vehicle is provided. The stabilizer includes a U-shaped torsion bar having an elongated base and two free ends. The elongated base is coupled to a vehicle frame and each of the free ends is coupled to one of a right-hand and a left-hand wheel-guiding element via a respective coupling bar. Each of the coupling bars includes an NVH vibration absorber configured to counteract vibrations of the respective coupling bar or of the respective wheel guiding element to which the coupling bar is configured to connect, wherein the NVH absorber counteracts vibrations in one or more predetermined frequency ranges without counteracting vibrations in other frequencies. |
| US09517675B2 |
Adjustable blow-off suspension
Altering the damping rate of a vehicle suspension damper. A pressure of a damping fluid is exerted against a second valve mechanism connected to the vehicle suspension damper. The pressure of the damping fluid is increased beyond a threshold of the second valve mechanism that is adjustable by an adjustment member. The adjustment member is exposed through a high pressure side of the vehicle suspension damper. The second valve mechanism is then opened. |
| US09517673B2 |
Vehicle and a suspension system for the vehicle
A vehicle and a suspension system for the vehicle are disclosed. The suspension system includes a first suspension corner assembly adapted to support a structure of the vehicle and a second suspension corner assembly adapted to support the structure. The first suspension corner assembly includes a first bell crank and the second suspension corner assembly includes a second bell crank. The suspension system also includes an actuator device attached to the first and second bell cranks to selectively change at least one of a first spring rate and a preload. |
| US09517670B2 |
Power train for an amphibian
A power train for an amphibian includes a first prime mover, a first land propulsion unit, and a first marine propulsion unit. The first prime mover is arranged to selectively drive the first land propulsion unit, or the first marine propulsion unit, or both. The power train further comprises a second prime mover. The second prime mover is arranged to selectively drive the first land propulsion unit, or the first marine propulsion unit, or both, either in place of the first prime mover or in addition thereto. |
| US09517669B2 |
Tow hitch with movable coupling
A tow hitch with a main body which is adapted to be fixed relative to a towing vehicle, and a coupling movable relative to the body between a first position arranged to engage a tow bar, and a second position for towing. |
| US09517663B2 |
Tire inflation system having a rotary coupling
A tire inflation system having a rotary coupling. The rotary coupling may have a mounting member and a rotating member. The rotating member may be rotatably coupled to the mounting member and may have a rotating member passage that may fluidly connect a first conduit to a second conduit that may be fluidly connected to the tire. |
| US09517662B2 |
Pneumatic tire
A diametrical conductive portion extending in a tire diametrical direction in a tire meridian cross section is provided at least in a nonconductive position in a side rubber portion which is constructed by a side wall rubber and a rim strip rubber, a conductive branch portion is provided so as to be branched from the diametrical conductive portion, extend to at least one in a thickness direction of the side rubber portion and pass through an inner portion of the side rubber portion, and the conductive branch portion is arranged at a position which sections at least half position in the thickness direction of the side rubber portion into an outer side in a tire diametrical direction and an inner side in the tire diametrical direction, and is formed by a conductive rubber which has a different hardness from a rubber hardness of the side rubber portion. |
| US09517661B2 |
Low noise tire
The present disclosure relates to a low noise tire, and more specifically, to a low noise tire that includes: a sealant layer adhered to an inside surface of an inner liner of the tire; and a sound-absorbing material layer adhered to the sealant layer, in which the sound-absorbing material layer includes 50 to 90 wt % of a polypropylene melt-blown fiber and 10 to 50 wt % of a polymer fiber. |
| US09517657B2 |
Axle link coupling unit
An axle link junction unit includes a base section and an attachment section, the base section comprising a hollow body at least in transitions into the attachment section along an attachment axis, the attachment section non-detachably fixing a support element to the axle link junction unit, wherein a second attachment section is arranged coaxially with respect to the first attachment section and is situated opposite the first attachment section, and wherein a third attachment section extends substantially along a second attachment axis and a fourth attachment section extends substantially along a third attachment. |
| US09517655B2 |
Display frame
The invention disclosed herein is comprised of a frame and high tension strings combined to create a useful, distinct and novel display frame. The high-tension strings are interwoven vertically and horizontally across the surface area within the perimeter of the frame, creating vertices and slots for securely holding art objects, such as photographs. The vertical and horizontal high tension strings are affixed to the backside of the frame with a fastener and further secured by intricate knots to prevent the shifting and moving of the strings. The high tension strings are strung at the highest tension and are specifically spaced to accommodate pictures of varying sizes. The specific sized slots created by the interweaving of the vertical and horizontal strings make it easy and simple to slip pictures in and out of the available slots, or rotate the pictures to display in a collage format. |
| US09517654B2 |
Writing implement
The present invention relates to a writing implement comprising: a tubular gripping body (10) within which there is a recess for receiving an ink reservoir, a writing nib (12), at one end of the tubular gripping body (10) able to be connected to an ink reservoir, a timekeeping mechanism (14) housed in the tubular gripping body (10). According to the invention, the timekeeping mechanism (14), housed in the tubular gripping body (10), is a mechanical movement comprising an energy source (16), a balance and hairspring (18), an escapement mechanism intermittently transmitting the energy supplied by the energy source (16) to the balance and hairspring (18), and a geartrain (20) arranged to drive a device (22) for displaying time information, said display device being visible on a circumferential portion of the tubular gripping body (10) at a position between its two ends. |
| US09517652B2 |
Sheet post-processing device and image forming device provided with the sheet post-processing device
A sheet post-processing device includes a conveying section that conveys the paper sheet, a punch section that punches punch holes in the paper sheet conveyed by the conveying section, a stacker section that stores the paper sheet in which the punch holes are punched by the punch section, a stopper section that regulates a conveying direction leading end of the paper sheet stored in the stacker section; a binding section that binds the paper sheet bundle whose leading end is regulated by the stacker section, and a folding section that folds the paper sheet bundle bound by the binding section at a predetermined folding position. The punch section punches the punch holes at the front and rear of the folding position in the sheet conveying direction, and the binding section binds the paper sheet bundle with a paper-made staple by making the paper-made staple penetrate the punch holes. With this configuration, there can be provided a sheet-post processing device capable of easily generating a booklet for simple ring binding. |
| US09517648B2 |
Porous stamp assembly, and manufacturing method and apparatus of the same
The present invention relates to a porous stamp assembly. The manufacturing method of the assembly comprises a first step of hermetically adhering a porous impression die member of thermoplastic resin to a front end face of a frame; a second step of fixing the die member embedded frame onto a mount that is to be in face-to-face relation with a thermal head attached to a seal carving device; a third step of putting the thermal head in contact with an impression surface of the porous impression die member, with a resin film interposed therebetween, and moving the thermal head and the porous impression die member relative to each other; and a fourth step of removing the die member embedded frame from the mount. |
| US09517647B2 |
Tape cassette
A tape cassette that includes a housing having a top surface, a bottom surface, a front surface and a pair of side surfaces, a tape that is a print medium housed in the housing, a tape exit that discharges, from the housing, the tape guided in the housing along a predetermined feed path, at least a part of the feed path extending parallel to the front surface, and a type indicator portion provided adjacent to the tape exit and in a specified area of the front surface on an upstream side of the tape exit in a feed direction of the tape, the type indicator portion indicating a type of the tape and including vertical information sections and a protrusion formed in at least one of the vertical information sections, the vertical information sections being strip-shaped sections extending along a direction orthogonal to the feed direction. |
| US09517644B2 |
Printing apparatus
A printing apparatus includes a medium support portion that applies suction to a printing medium and supports the printing medium, a printing unit that prints onto the printing medium supported on the medium support portion, and a transport unit that transports the printing medium supported on the medium support portion. A recessed portion is formed in the medium support portion, and a first suction opening that that applies suction to the printing medium is formed in the recessed portion on a downstream side thereof in a transport direction. |
| US09517640B2 |
Cyclically operating printing press
A cyclically operating printing press includes a clocked wheel with a drivable holder for holding a three-dimensional object arranged thereon. A fixed print head is disposed in a printing station. An additional print head is disposed in the printing station at another location or side than the print head relative to the axis of rotation of the three-dimensional object in such a way that: no dirt emanating from the print head can fall down onto any other print head of the printing station as a result of gravity, the at least one additional print head can print the three-dimensional object simultaneously with the other print heads of the printing station, and none of the print heads is arranged in an interference contour formed by the holder and the three-dimensional object held therein being moved by the transport system. |
| US09517639B2 |
Printer and tablet
A printer of the present invention includes a first image pickup device that picks up an image of one side of an object, a first checking section that checks the one side of the object based on the image picked up by the first image pickup device, a first printing device that is disposed at a downstream side of the first image pickup device and that performs printing on the one side of the object while being conveyed, a second image pickup device that picks up an image of the other side of the object while being conveyed, a second checking section that checks the other side of the object based on the image picked up by the second image pickup device, and a second printing device that is disposed at a downstream side of the second image pickup device and that performs printing on the other side of the object while being conveyed. |
| US09517635B2 |
Image forming method
An image forming method comprises: applying a treatment liquid, which contains an organic acidic compound represented by the following general formula (I), a water-soluble polymer compound, and water, on a recording medium; and applying an ink composition, which contains a pigment, a pyrrolidone derivative, a compound represented by the following general formula (II), and water, on a treatment liquid-applied surface of the recording medium. In the general formula (I), n represents an integer of 2 or greater and m represents an integer of 3 or greater. In the general formula (II), l, m, and n represent an integer of 1 or greater, the relation l+m+n=3 to 15 is satisfied, and AO represents ethyleneoxy or propyleneoxy. |
| US09517633B2 |
Ink cartridge for ink jet printer
Disclosed is an ink cartridge (1) for an ink jet printer, which is detachably mounted to a cartridge mounting part (100) of the ink jet printer, a convex part (104) is provided in the cartridge mounting part (100). The ink cartridge (1) includes an ink storage chamber (11); an ink supply port (14); a first detecting mechanism (21); a movable member (30); and a second detecting mechanism (40) that is linked with the movable member (30), and the second detecting mechanism (40) can move up and down reciprocatively in a direction perpendicular to a direction in which the ink cartridge (1) is mounted. Using this ink cartridge prevents the problem of inaccurate detection caused by using a lever to detect whether the ink cartridge has been mounted in place. |
| US09517627B2 |
Ink jet print head and cap
A cap 13, 15, for the print face 9 of a drop-on-demand ink jet printer moves between a closed position, in which it covers the print nozzles on the print face 9, and an open position in which the print nozzles are uncovered, without requiring movement of the print face 9. In the open position, the cap is recessed relative to the front surface 21 of the printhead. For at least part of the movement of the cap, it is further forward than the print face 9, so that it does not slide across and damage the print nozzles. The drop-on-demand ink jet printer may be used to print onto objects 3 conveyed past it, for example on a packing line. The cap 13, 15, does not obstruct the path of the objects 3 even if they pass very close (e.g. 0.5 mm) to the print face 9 because its uncapped position is further back than the front surface 21 of the printhead. |
| US09517624B2 |
Wiring mounting structure and method of manufacturing the same, and liquid ejecting head and liquid ejecting apparatus
A wiring mounting structure includes: a first base that has a first main surface, a second main surface that is an undersurface opposite to the first main surface, and an inclined surface that is formed between the first main surface and the second main surface to have an angle as a reference angle with the second main surface, which is less than 90 degrees; a second base that has a third main surface which is joined to the second main surface of the first base; an adhesive which is disposed between the second main surface of the first base and the third main surface of the second base from an end portion of the inclined surface of the first base to an exposed region on the third main surface of the second base and by which the first base and the second base are joined; and a connection wiring that is provided to be continuous on from the inclined surface through the front surface of the adhesive to the third main surface of the second base. The front surface of the adhesive is provided to be continuous to the inclined surface and thus an angle formed between the front surface of the adhesive in a portion in which the adhesive is provided to be continuous to the inclined surface and the third main surface on which the adhesive is provided is less than the reference. |
| US09517623B2 |
Continuous motion printing on cylindrical objects
A method for printing a digitally-stored image on the surface of a cylindrical object comprises the steps of axially moving the object along a line of travel that is aligned with the object's long axis until it is underneath one or more printheads, each of which have a plurality of ink nozzles that may be arranged in one or more columns while simultaneously rotating the object with respect to the printheads and simultaneously causing a pre-determined number of nozzles to eject ink onto the surface of the object. |
| US09517619B2 |
Controller and method for industrial printing
A method and printing controller for industrial printing with the use of a plurality of print-heads for a single printing assignment are described. Printing instructions for a single printing assignment are obtained. Different portions of the single printing assignment, and associated portions of the printing instructions, are assigned among respective print-heads of a plurality of print-heads. |
| US09517617B2 |
Printing machine safety system
A screen printing safety system is provided. The system includes a screen printing machine, and a plurality of zones in the vicinity of the screen printing machine. Each of the zones includes at least one sensor for sensing encroachment past a predetermined point. The sensors are adapted to stop operation of the screen printing machine when encroachment is sensed in at least one of the plurality of zones. |
| US09517614B1 |
Delamination and crack prevention layer for structural sandwich panels
A method of manufacturing a delamination and crack prevention layer (DCPL) is provided for use in laminated sandwich panels. The DCPL is formed by using a continuous rolling process and by cutting finger profiles. Each finger forms a beam extending outward at a desired angle from a DCPL plane. The upper and lower DCPL planes are aligned to provide a uniform distribution of fingers along a length of the DCPL. Face sheets are bonded to the outer DCPL planes. Foam infusers add foam between the DCPL planes and among the fingers. The foam is rigidified (cured) during a continuous roll-form process. The DCPL prevents propagation of delamination between adjacent face sheets and core layers as well as arresting cracks in the core layers. |
| US09517612B2 |
Floor material using PLA resin
Disclosed is a flooring material using an environment-friendly PLA resin. According to the present invention, the flooring material using the PLA resin comprises: a base layer; a print layer which is formed on top of the base layer, and has a print pattern on an upper side thereof; and a transparent layer which is formed on top of the print layer, wherein one or more of the base layer, the print layer, and the transparent layer include polylactic acid (PLA) resin. |
| US09517609B2 |
Attachment systems and methods usable to form enclosures
Enclosures and panels for forming such enclosures can include a first edge having a front side and a rear side, each side having a first portion of a fastening medium thereon, and a second edge having first and second flaps, each flap having an inner surface with a second portion of the fastening medium thereon. The flaps of a first panel can engaged with the front and rear sides of an adjacent panel, and similarly, any number of adjacent panels can be engaged in this manner to form a sealed enclosure, usable for maintaining a pressure differential between the interior and exterior thereof. |
| US09517608B2 |
Particle toughening for improving fracture toughness
A curable prepreg ply formed by applying two outer resin films to the top and bottom surfaces, respectively, of a layer of resin-impregnated reinforcement fibers. The outer resin films contains insoluble toughening particles, and partially soluble or swellable toughening particles, but the resin matrix which impregnates the reinforcement fibers does not contain the same toughening particles. The insoluble toughening particles are insoluble in the resin matrix of the resin films upon curing of the prepreg ply. The partially soluble or swellable toughening particles are partially soluble or swellable in the resin matrix of the resin films upon curing of the prepreg ply, but remain as discreet particles after curing. |
| US09517605B2 |
Tri-fold plastic bag roll, method and apparatus for making same
A plastic or other film bag is formed from a continuous extruded tube. The tube is flattened and sealed across its width at intervals to form bag bottoms. The bags are joined to one another at a perforation line and folded in thirds lengthwise prior to being rolled into a compact roll, either with or without supporting core. After folding the bags may be chisel cut through the center of the perforation line to assist in dispensing of the bags. The chisel cut will extend through all layers of the bag when folded, resulting in three chisel cuts in the bag. The bags may be gusseted for part or as much as all of their width. The bags may also be corona treated and printed on their outer surfaces. The bags may be formed from partially recycled materials and various combinations of linear low density, medium and high density polyethylene. |
| US09517601B2 |
Method for calibration of a pour opening of a plastic container produced in an extrusion-blow-molding method
A method is disclosed for providing dimensional accuracy of a pour opening in or on a plastic container produced by extrusion-blow-molding. The method can include inserting a section of a plastic hose, extruded in one or more layers through an extrusion nozzle, into a mold cavity of a blow mold tool; and inflating the plastic hose by a calibrating blow pin according to a shape of the mold cavity, whereby at least one pour opening of the plastic container is determined with respect to its inside diameter and its inside contour to form a completed inflated plastic container, and wherein the calibrating blow pin is axially inserted into the plastic hose section after a head plate of the blow mold tool has been closed. |
| US09517594B2 |
Composite structure having a stabilizing element
A composite structure may include a laminate and a stabilizing element. The laminate may have a plurality of composite plies. The composite structure may include a geometric discontinuity that may be associated with the laminate. The stabilizing element may be included with the composite plies and may be located proximate the geometric discontinuity. |
| US09517593B2 |
Apparatus and process for producing porous devices
In general, in various embodiments, the present disclosure is directed systems and methods for producing a porous surface from a solid piece of polymer. In particular, the present disclosure is directed to systems that include a track assembly, mold assembly, press assembly, and methods for using the same for producing a porous surface from a solid piece of polymer. In some embodiments, the present systems and methods are directed to processing a polymer at a temperature below a melting point of the polymer to produce a solid piece of polymer with an integrated a porous surface. |
| US09517588B2 |
Connected spouts of containers and related methods
This invention relates to a specially adapted spouted closure that has oppositely positioned protruding tabular features that enable it to be heat welded or bonded to another closure of the same kind as shown in FIG. 15. The protruding tabs being so formed to enable a plurality of closures to form chains and to allow a degree of movement in an orthogonal direction to the orientation of the spout. The part of the rigid closure that attaches to the flexible part of the packaging being orientated in a way that allows adjacent containers to overlap with one another. The protruding tab of the rigid closure being formed in a position relative to rest of the closure to enable the closure to pass along a guide rail without snagging. |
| US09517583B2 |
Method of forming natural fiber polymer composite
A method of forming a natural fiber polymer composite includes the steps of introducing into an extruder a polymer, a natural fiber and a supercritical fluid to form a natural fiber polymer mixture; and extruding the natural fiber polymer mixture to form the natural fiber polymer composite at a temperature below a standard melting temperature of the polymer alone. The supercritical fluid may be introduced after the polymer is introduced into the extruder. The supercritical fluid may be introduced before or after the natural fiber is introduced into the extruder. |
| US09517581B2 |
Pressure-maintenance device for producing composite parts by resin injection and associated method
A pressure-maintenance device for a resin injection system including an injection network connected to an injection mould, includes a pressurisation device adapted to inject a pressurised gas into a channelling; a first connector adapted to be connected to the resin injection network and adapted to be connected to the channelling; a second connector adapted to be connected to the injection mould of the injection system; the first connector being connected to the second connector by a pressure-maintenance channelling adapted to receive the gas injected under pressure. |
| US09517577B2 |
Method for applying a bladder release agent between a green tire and a bladder in a tire curing machine
A lubricating system indirectly applies a bladder release agent to a green tire and cures the green tire in a tire curing machine. The system includes a deposition device and a curing bladder. The deposition device directly applies bladder release agent on to a deposition bladder. The deposition bladder is inflated within the green tire in order to deposit the bladder release agent on to an inner surface of the green tire. The curing bladder subsequently receives the green tire with bladder release agent deposited therein and cures the green tire. |
| US09517574B2 |
Punching device
A punching device includes: a die seat; a punch seat; an interconnecting member interconnecting the die seat and the punch seat; a punch; first and second pivot parts; a first lever pivoted to the first pivot part and having two first side walls and two side flanges that extend respectively from lower ends of the first side walls; a second lever pivoted to the second pivot part and having two second side walls that abut against the side flanges for driving rotation of the first lever relative to the first pivot part; and an urging member for urging the punch. |
| US09517572B2 |
Apparatuses for cutting food products
Apparatuses for cutting food product are provided having a cutting head. The cutting head includes one or more knife assemblies. Each knife assembly includes a knife extending toward the food product and is adapter to secure the knife to the cutting head. The knife has a corrugated shape to produce a food product slice with generally parallel cuts wherein the food product slice has a periodic shape and a large-amplitude cross-section. |
| US09517568B2 |
Multi-axis robot
A multi-axis robot includes: a base with a hollow; a support member with a hollow, the support member constituting a proximal end portion of an arm of the multi-axis robot; and a guide pipe configured to rotate together with the support member, the guide pipe being configured such that one end of the guide pipe is rotatably inserted in the base, and inner space of the guide pipe is in communication with inner space of the support member and inner space of the base. A notch is formed in a peripheral surface of an end portion of the guide pipe, the end portion being positioned in the base. A motor cable extends to reach the notch from radially outside of the guide pipe. |
| US09517565B2 |
Feeding assistant robot
The present invention relates to a feeding assistant robot, which assists in feeding patients or the elderly and infirm who have difficulty in moving their arms and thus have difficulty in feeding themselves. The feeding assistant robot includes: a picking arm including a gripper for picking up food placed on a tray; a feeding arm, including a spoon on which the food picked up by the picking arm is placed, for moving the spoon to the mouth of a user; an input device enabling the user to direct the movements of the picking arm and of the feeding arm; and a control unit electrically connected to the picking arm, the feeding arm, and the manipulation part to control the movements of the picking arm and the feeding arm according to the commands from the input device. |
| US09517563B2 |
Robot system using visual feedback
The robot system includes: a robot for performing predetermined operations on an object placed at a first object position; a first robot position storage configured to store the position of an arm end arranged in a predetermined positional relationship relative to the first object position; a target arrival state data storage configured to store feature quantities of the object on the camera image; a robot movement amount calculator configured to calculate the amount of movement in order to make the feature quantities of the object placed at a second object position coincide with the feature quantities of the target arrival state data; and a correction data calculator configured to calculate correction data based on the difference between the second robot position when the arm end has been moved based on the amount of movement and the first robot position. |
| US09517561B2 |
Natural pitch and roll
A control system may receive a first plurality of measurements indicative of respective joint angles corresponding to a plurality of sensors connected to a robot. The robot may include a body and a plurality of jointed limbs connected to the body associated with respective properties. The control system may also receive a body orientation measurement indicative of an orientation of the body of the robot. The control system may further determine a relationship between the first plurality of measurements and the body orientation measurement based on the properties associated with the jointed limbs of the robot. Additionally, the control system may estimate an aggregate orientation of the robot based on the first plurality of measurements, the body orientation measurement, and the determined relationship. Further, the control system may provide instructions to control at least one jointed limb of the robot based on the estimated aggregate orientation of the robot. |
| US09517556B2 |
Robot control apparatus and robot control method
A robot control apparatus includes a transformation-matrix generating unit that generates, on the basis of N first command values for learning per one robot, which are position-corrected command values for positioning a master robot and a slave robot on tracks of their respective robots during the synchronous driving, concerning the respective N command values for learning, transformation matrices among the command values for learning, a command-value storing unit that outputs a first command value for driving at each of M operation periods for defining the track of the master robot, a transformation-matrix -function generating unit and a command-value generating unit that interpolate the N transformation matrices and generate a transformation matrix at the each first command value for driving, and a command-value generating unit that causes the transformation matrices to act on the M first command values for driving and generates M second command values for driving of the slave robot. |
| US09517553B2 |
Nail plate tool
A nail plate tool which aids in positioning and installing nail plates in hard-to-reach areas. The nail plate tool generally includes an elongated portion having a handle portion at its first end and a holder portion at its second end. The handle portion is adapted to be grasped by a user and the holder portion is adapted to removably retain a nail plate against the nail plate tool, such as through use of a magnet. By removably securing the nail plate to the holder portion, an individual may more easily reach areas to install a nail plate. |
| US09517549B2 |
Socket tool set
A socket tool set having a plurality of individual sockets with varying diameters and lengths coaxially nested within one another and a key which is slidably engaged with said sockets during storage of the tool set. During use the key operationally engages an individual socket and serves as an extension to said socket. |
| US09517547B2 |
Super hard alloy baseplate outer circumference cutting blade and manufacturing method thereof
The disclosed cemented carbide base outer blade cutting wheel comprises a base in the form of an annular thin disc of cemented carbide, and a blade section on the outer periphery of the base. The blade section contains: diamond and/or CBN abrasive grains pre-coated with a magnetic material; a metal or alloy bond formed by electroplating or electroless plating for bonding abrasive grains together and to the base; and a metal or alloy binder having a melting point of up to 350° C. infiltrated between abrasive grains and between abrasive grains and the base. The method for manufacturing said outer blade cutting wheel is also disclosed. |
| US09517544B2 |
Polishing apparatus and polishing method
A polishing apparatus polishes a periphery of a substrate. This polishing apparatus includes a rotary holding mechanism configured to hold the substrate horizontally and rotate the substrate, plural polishing head assemblies provided around the substrate, plural tape supplying and recovering mechanisms configured to supply polishing tapes to the plural polishing head assemblies and recover the polishing tapes from the plural polishing head assemblies, and plural moving mechanisms configured to move the plural polishing head assemblies in radial directions of the substrate held by the rotary holding mechanism. The tape supplying and recovering mechanisms are located outwardly of the plural polishing head assemblies in the radial directions of the substrate, and the tape supplying and recovering mechanisms are fixed in position. |
| US09517541B2 |
Braking mechanism and processing device using the same
A braking mechanism includes a rack, a receiving member, a braking member, a base seat, a resetting member and an elastic member. Two ends of the resetting member abut the base seat and the receiving member, and the elastic member is positioned between the base seat and the braking member. The elastic member and the resetting member are positioned at opposite sides of the braking member. The base seat includes a first guiding portion, the braking member includes a second guiding portion and an engaging part. The second guiding portion is capable of moving along the first guiding portion under an elastic restorative force of the resetting member and the elastic member, such that the engaging part is engaged with the rack. |
| US09517539B2 |
Wafer susceptor with improved thermal characteristics
A substrate-retaining device with improved thermal uniformity is provided. In an exemplary embodiment, the substrate-retaining device includes a substantially circular first surface with a defined perimeter, a plurality of contact regions disposed at the perimeter, and a plurality of noncontact regions also disposed at the perimeter. The contact regions are interspersed with the noncontact regions. Within each of the noncontact regions, the first surface extends past where the first surface ends within each of the contact regions. In some such embodiments, each region of the plurality of contact regions includes a contact surface disposed above the first surface. |
| US09517537B2 |
Method for reshaping a turbomachine blade that has at least one zone that has become deformed using peening
A method of reshaping a turbine engine blade including at least one deformed zone, the method including peening the deformed zone to be able to restore a shape of the at least one deformed zone. |
| US09517534B2 |
Electric installation maintenance method and device
Method for performing maintenance of an electric installation including at least one electric equipment unit comprising: entry and storing in a database of data representative of an electric installation to be monitored and of data representative of electric equipment settings and parameters, storing of data representative of events in a database so as to constitute an events history, detection of malfunctioning disturbances, analysis of causes of malfunctioning of the electric installation, management of restoration of operation of a part of the installation. Management of restoration of operation comprises monitoring by a decision tree to evaluate a criticality level. |
| US09517532B2 |
Metal member, metal member surface processing method, semiconductor device, semiconductor device manufacturing method, and composite molded body
An object is to form a rough surface for ensuring adhesion between a metal member and other members, or a rough surface for suppressing solder expansion in the metal member using an energy beam having energy density lower than a related art. A surface processing method of a metal member, in which a metal thin film is arranged on a surface of a base, includes: melting or evaporating a surface portion of the metal thin film by irradiating the metal thin film with a pulse-oscillated laser beam having energy density of 100 J/cm2 or less and a pulse width of 1 μs or less; and roughening the surface of the metal thin film by solidifying the surface portion of the metal thin film after the melting or evaporating. The metal thin film is made of at least one of Ni, Au, Pd, and Ag as a main component. |
| US09517528B2 |
Tool and method for bonding layers of a metallic axisymmetric structure having complex curvatures
A tool and method for bonding layers of a shell by the differential pressure bonding process. The tool and method includes a plurality of separable mandrel segments that combine to form a mandrel having a longitudinal axis, an outer surface, an upper end, and at least one substantially continuous inner surface. The inner surface has a substantially axisymmetric shape having complex curvature. In this embodiment, the tool further includes a retort configured to at least partially shroud the outer surface and upper end of the hollow body. The retort includes at least one vacuum port. The tool is configured to facilitate the compression of a plurality of layers of a multi-layer shell having complex curvature as the shell layers and an interdisposed bonding material are heated to an elevated bonding temperature. |
| US09517527B2 |
Method of dressing a resistance spot welding tip
A method is disclosed for dressing a resistance stop welding (RSW) tip and a tip dresser apparatus. According to the method, a circumferential shoulder is cut to a predetermined depth from a distal end of the RSW tip. The shoulder is cut in the side wall to provide a reduced radius side wall and a reduced radius distal end on the RSW tip. The depth of dressing the distal end of the RSW tip is controlled by providing a stop that engages a step formed in the side wall formed by the circumferential shoulder. The tip dresser apparatus includes a first cutting blade retained by a first holder that cuts a step into the side wall to a predetermined depth. A second cutting blade retained by a second holder cuts a radiused surface on the distal end until the stop engages the step. |
| US09517525B2 |
Welding system with lifting mechanism and enclosure
A welding system includes a housing having a front panel assembly. The welding system also includes first and second handles. The first handle is coupled to a first side of the front panel assembly and the second handle is coupled to a second side of the front panel assembly that is opposite from the first side. Each handle includes a recessed handle portion having an inner wall that forms an angle of between approximately 60 degrees and approximately 80 degrees with respect to an outer wall of the respective handle. The first and second handles are symmetrical about a central axis such that the first and second handles are interchangeable with each other. In addition, the first and second handles each include a plurality of internal tabs on both top and bottom sides of the first and second handles. The internal tabs facilitate coupling and alignment of the first and second handles with the front panel assembly. |
| US09517524B2 |
Welding wire spool support
The welding wire spool support wherein the housing is formed from a single sheet of material, the housing being attached to a base, wherein the base includes a spindle support extending upward therefrom, wherein the spindle is mounted on the spindle support; and wherein a wire feeder assembly is supported on the base and adapted to draw wire from the spool. |
| US09517522B2 |
Self-aligning wire feeder assembly
A wire feeder comprises a motor and drive roll assembly. The motor and drive roll assembly comprises a base assembly having a left hand side and a right hand side. A first locating mechanism is on the right hand side and a second locating mechanism is on the left hand side. Modules, such as inlet or outlet guides can be located and mounted, preferably on either side. Each module preferably includes an additional locating mechanism to allow an additional module to be located by the additional locating mechanism. The locating mechanisms are preferably of the same design, and preferably each includes at least two holes with a locator pin disposed in each hole, and each module being located includes at least locating holes to receive the locator pins. |
| US09517521B2 |
Method for repairing component
A method for repairing a component is provided. The method comprises: tracing an electrode across a defect/damage on the component at a preselected distance from the component; feeding a first metal powder and a second metal powder into a discharging gap between the electrode and the component; controlling feed rates of the first and second metal powders separately; and electro-spark depositing the first and second metal powders to the component to form a hybrid metal coating. The first metal powder comprises a first metal or alloy with a Vickers hardness rating of about 70-200% of the Vickers hardness rating of the component. The second metal powder comprises a second metal or alloy having lubricating/anti-corrosion properties. |
| US09517519B2 |
Fastener with hardened threads
A method of creating a threaded fastener which includes a shank having a first, threaded portion and a hardened thread portion. The shank includes a thread extending outwardly from a shank body over a first length of the shank. A second portion of the shank includes a groove positioned coincident with the thread and including a turn ratio equal to a turn ratio of the thread. The shank comprises corrosive resistant stainless steel. A coil of hardened steel engages the groove to fill the groove along the second portion. |
| US09517517B2 |
Method for grinding toothed workpieces and apparatus designed therefor
The invention concerns a method of grinding a toothed workpiece in which a central axis of the toothed contour profile is defined, wherein the method encompasses at least two work operations. In a first work operation a grinding zone of a grinding tool whose selection is determined by the grinding process to be performed, which rotates about an axis of rotation and is set up for an infeed in the direction of the shortest distance between said central axis and the rotation axis, is brought into grinding engagement with a tooth flank of the workpiece. In a later, second work operation, the tooth flank is brought into grinding engagement with a grinding zone of a grinding tool whose selection is determined by the grinding process to be performed and which is advanced in the infeed direction of the first operation. The grinding zone that is active in the first work operation is dressed in a first dressing operation with a dressing tool, and the grinding zone that is active in the second work operation is dressed in a second dressing operation with a dressing tool, wherein in the first dressing operation a first dressing tool zone is brought into dressing engagement with the grinding zone that is to be dressed, and in the second dressing operation a second dressing tool zone which is spatially separate from the first dressing tool zone is brought into dressing engagement with the grinding zone that is to be dressed. |
| US09517515B2 |
End mill convex radial relief surface and corner having circular arc profile
An end mill includes a tooth having a convex radial relief surface, a corner with a circular arc profile, a rake surface and a corner relief surface. The corner relief surface extends rearward of a radial tangent plane defined in relation to the circular arc profile. |
| US09517514B2 |
Exchangeable head cutting tool
An exchangeable head cutting tool contains a tool main body made of a hard material and a connecting member made of a metal material having a lower hardness than the hard material. The tool main body and the connecting member are joined by inserting a cylindrical mounting portion of the connecting member into a mounting hole formed in the tool main body, and by plastically deforming the mounting portion so as to expand a diameter thereof, thereby bringing an outer peripheral surface of the mounting portion into close contact with the inner peripheral surface of the mounting hole and thus making the outer peripheral surface of the mounting portion engage with a concave portions of the tool main body. A diameter expanding member having a higher hardness than the connecting member is press-fitted into and fixed to an inner peripheral portion of the mounting portion. |
| US09517512B2 |
Ultrasonic positioning device for five-axis machine
An ultrasonic positioning device for a five-axis machine includes an ultrasonic device and a positioning plate. The ultrasonic device is adapted to fix a material and generates ultrasonic vibrations to the material. The positioning plate is adapted to fix the ultrasonic device and pivotally connected the five-axis machine for the material to be controlled by the five-axis movement on the five-axis machine. By cooperating with the ultrasonic vibrations, a processing portion of the five-axis machine can process the material. |
| US09517509B2 |
Cutting tool and method of manufacturing machined product using the same
In a cutting tool, at least one of an upper contact part of an upper surface of a cutting insert and an upper jaw of a holder and a lower contact part of a lower surface of the cutting insert and a lower jaw of the holder includes a first concave-convex surface and a second concave-convex surface. A distance d1 between tops of first convex parts adjacent to each other among a plurality of first convex parts of the first concave-convex surface is smaller than a distance d2 between bottoms of second concave parts adjacent to each other among a plurality of second concave parts of the second concave-convex surface in a sectional view perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the holder. |
| US09517508B2 |
Convergence machining apparatus based on turning
Disclosed is a convergence machining apparatus based on turning in which a rotational axis of a work piece fixed by a headstock and a tailstock and a center of a width of a slide surface of a bed on which a reciprocal carriage installed with a tool is transferred while being supported are positioned at the same virtual plane, thereby preventing an offset error according to a relative displacement between the work piece and the tool during processing. |
| US09517507B2 |
Method of shaping green part and manufacturing method using same
A method of shaping a part in a green state obtained through powder injection molding, including placing a surface of the part in contact with a shaping surface of a setter with at least one section of the surface of the part not conforming to the shaping surface, and locally heating at least one area of each of the at least one section to deform the part until the at least one section conforms to the shaping surface. The part remains in the green state during the local heating. The part may be a heat shield panel for a gas turbine engine. |
| US09517506B2 |
Laser assisted casting of cooling hole and related system
Various embodiments include methods and related systems for laser-assisted casting. Some embodiments include a method including: performing laser ablation to a preliminary wax casting model to form a modified wax model including at least one cooling hole absent from the wax casting substrate; coating the modified wax model to form a mold shape around the modified wax model; and removing the modified wax model to leave a casting mold including the at least one cooling hole. |
| US09517504B2 |
Article with grouped grain patterns
A method for forming an article includes providing a mold and casting a metal material within the mold so that a part is produced which has a first portion having a first grain pattern and a second portion having a second grain pattern different from said first grain pattern. |
| US09517500B2 |
Method and appraratus for forming a helical tube bundle
Apparatus and method for forming a plurality of elongate members into a helical bundle in which a pair of bending die assemblies are mounted on a moveable carriage, the moveable carriage itself being supported by a frame. The bending dies each have a plurality of grooved rollers that engage the sides of the tubes to apply a bending force while allowing the tubes to move longitudinally through the die assemblies. The die assemblies can be rotated independent of each other or in unison by means of stepper motors. A collet, attached to the frame, holds the ends of the tubes during the bending operation. |
| US09517497B2 |
Rinsing device for microplate
A rinsing device is comprised of a rinsing head including a first flow path extending horizontally, and a second flow path extending horizontally and being disposed below or above the first flow path so as not to communicate with the first flow path; one or more nozzles arranged horizontally and projecting vertically downward from the rinsing head; and one or more sliding members including passages in fluid communication with the nozzles, the sliding members slidably fitting in the rinsing head and being movable between a first position to place the passages in fluid communication with the first flow path and a second position to place the passages in fluid communication with the second flow path. |
| US09517493B2 |
Belt stripper with angle height adjustment and method for adjusting said belt strippers
A belt stripper module for a stripping device for the return region of conveyor belts, which module is mounted as one of a plurality on a height-adjustable system carrier. |
| US09517492B2 |
Device and method for transporting objects
A transporting device transports objects in a transport direction from a loading region to an unloading region. The device includes a first conveying unit and a second conveying unit which are arranged one behind the other in the transport direction. Efficient unloading of the objects from the transporting device is achieved by providing a separating device between the first and second conveying units. The separating device is configured to separate the objects into at least two object groups dependent on at least one object property. |
| US09517491B2 |
Method and apparatus for sorting
A method and apparatus for sorting objects is described, and which provides high-speed image data acquisition to fuse multiple data streams in real-time, while avoiding destructive interference when individual sensors or detectors are utilized in providing data regarding features of a product to be inspected. |
| US09517486B2 |
Valve impact type dispensing pump
A dispensing pump, and more particularly, a valve impact type dispensing pump that may be used in a process of manufacturing an electronic product and may dispense an accurate amount of a liquid, such as a liquid synthetic resin, at high speed. The valve impact type dispensing pump can descend a valve rod at high speed and thus can dispense a liquid with high viscosity at high speed. The valve impact type dispensing pump can dispense an accurate amount of a liquid at high speed. Also, the valve impact type dispensing pump can dispense a liquid having high viscosity at high speed due to a fast descending speed of a valve rod. |
| US09517484B2 |
Dispenser pump using electrically activated material
A pump for dispensing fluid includes a dome portion for storing the fluid received through a pump inlet. The dome portion is movable between a compressed state and an uncompressed state. The pump includes a flexible membrane having a first pliability when a first voltage is applied and a second pliability when a second voltage is applied. The pump includes a first biasing device that applies a first force in a first direction to the flexible membrane. The flexible membrane moves the dome portion from the uncompressed state to the compressed state. The pump includes a second biasing device that applies a second force in a second direction to the dome portion to move the dome portion from the compressed state to the uncompressed state when the flexible membrane has the second pliability. Alternatively, the dome portion moves in the second direction in response to a gravitational force. |
| US09517482B2 |
Pump-type cosmetic container having structure for discharging different kinds of contents and method for manufacturing the same
A pump-type cosmetic container having a structure for discharging different kinds of contents and to a manufacturing method of the same, holds two different kinds of contents respectively in the upper and lower sections within a single container body, thus providing a slim cosmetic container, and allows cosmetics that should be used sequentially when applying make-up to be contained in a set, thus providing users with convenience. |
| US09517481B2 |
Methods, devices and systems for refilling a liquid dispenser
The present disclosure relates to a liquid refilling system (10) including a parent device (201) and a child or portable travel sized device (101) that can be releasably coupled to the parent device (201) to transfer liquid from the parent to the child device. The parent device (210) is provided with a pump (207) in liquid communication with a parent reservoir (203) containing the liquid. The pump of the parent device has a volume which is preferably substantially equal to the volume (Vcr) of the child reservoir thereby enabling a minimal number of single actuations of the parent pump (207) to completely fill the child reservoir (103) if desired upon coupling thereof. |
| US09517475B2 |
Centrifuge with overlapping metal plate
A centrifuge including: a rotor configured to be rotatably driven; a rotor chamber accommodating the rotor therein; and a protector provided at an outer periphery of the rotor chamber, wherein the protector includes at least one metal plate which is wound in an overlapping state. |
| US09517473B2 |
Magnetic filter for a fluid port
A magnetic filter includes a stack of magnetic filter elements having a central flow channel comprising at least one flow opening in the magnetic filter elements and a series of flow gaps between adjacent magnetic filter elements, each magnetic filter element comprising one or more magnets enclosed within a non-magnetic housing. There is an end cap at a second end of the stack of magnetic filter elements, the end cap closing the central flow channel at the second end such that flow is redirected in parallel flows through the flow gaps between the magnetic filter elements. There is an attachment at a second end of the stack of magnetic filter elements, the attachment attaching the stack of magnetic filter elements to a fluid port of a fluid system to define a flow path between the fluid port and the outer fluid environment. |
| US09517469B2 |
Method and device for conducting biochemical or chemical reactions at multiple temperatures
Methods and devices for conducting chemical or biochemical reactions that require multiple reaction temperatures are described. The methods involve moving one or more reaction droplets or reaction volumes through various reaction zones having different temperatures on a microfluidics apparatus. The devices comprise a microfluidics apparatus comprising appropriate actuators capable of moving reaction droplets or reaction volumes through the various reaction zones. |
| US09517468B2 |
Methods and systems for calibration of a positional orientation between a sample container and nozzle tip
Disclosed are methods to aid in a calibration of a vertical orientation of a nozzle tip to a sample container in a processing or testing system. The method includes positioning the nozzle over a calibration target at a home height location (HM), moving the nozzle downward a distance (D) until contact with the calibration target is sensed, positioning the nozzle over the sample rack and moving the nozzle downward until contact with a registration location is sensed, imaging the sample rack and calibration target to determine a height (H) between the registration location and calibration target, and calculating a translation ratio (TR) between the height (H) measured in pixel space and the distance (D) measured in machine space. The translation ratio (TR) may be used to drive the nozzle tip to a predetermined depth. A robot calibration system is disclosed, as are other aspects. |
| US09517467B1 |
Point-of-care diagnostic cartridge
A specimen delivery cartridge is disclosed that includes a first housing portion, a second housing portion, a fluid dispenser, and a plunger. The plunger includes a plunger body having a first side and a second side. The second side faces away from the first side. The plunger further includes at least one post extending from the first side of the plunger body. The second side of the plunger body includes at least one actuator that is sized and configured to apply a compressive force onto the fluid dispenser when the plunger is depressed, and the plunger is thereby operable to actuate the fluid dispenser. When actuated, the fluid dispenser releases a reagent to a test specimen to facilitate testing for a target pathogen. |
| US09517458B2 |
Stabilized microporous crystalline material, the method of making the same, and the use for selective catalytic reduction of NOx
There is disclosed a microporous crystalline material having pore opening ranging from 3 to 5 Angstroms, where the material comprises a first metal chosen from alkali earth group, rare earth group, alkali group, or mixtures thereof, and a second metal chosen from iron, copper or mixtures thereof; and has a molar silica to alumina ratio (SAR) from 3 to 10. The microporous crystalline material disclosed herein may comprise a crystal structure having building units of double-6-rings (d6r) and pore opening of 8-rings as exemplified with framework types defined by the Structure Commission of the International Zeolite Association having structural codes of CHA, LEV, AEI, AFT, AFX, EAB, ERI, KFI, SAT, TSC, and SAV. There is also disclosed a method of selective catalytic reduction of nitrogen oxides in exhaust gas, comprising at least partially contacting the exhaust gases with an article comprising the disclosed microporous crystalline material. |
| US09517457B2 |
Aftertreatment systems with reduced N2O generation
Systems, apparatus and methods are disclosed for reducing the amount of nitrous oxide (N2O) produced in a selective catalytic reductant (SCR) catalyst in an exhaust aftertreatment system. The SCR catalysts are arranged to reduce the amount of N2O produced during NOx reduction while not adversely affecting NOx conversion. |
| US09517446B2 |
Super absorbent polymer and a preparation method thereof
The present invention relates to a super absorbent polymer (SAP) and a preparation method thereof. More specifically, the present invention provides a SAP satisfying the overall properties required to a SAP and especially the superior initial absorbency and absorbing rate under load at the same time, and a preparation method thereof, by treating the surface of the SAP with a surface treatment solution including water and a diol-based or glycol-based surface crosslinking agent. |
| US09517445B2 |
High surface area carbon and process for its production
Activated carbon materials and methods of producing and using activated carbon materials are provided. In particular, biomass-derived activated carbon materials and processes of producing the activated carbon materials with prespecified surface areas and pore size distributions are provided. Activated carbon materials with preselected high specific surface areas, porosities, sub-nm (<1 nm) pore volumes, and supra-nm (1-5 nm) pore volumes may be achieved by controlling the degree of carbon consumption and metallic potassium intercalation into the carbon lattice during the activation process. |
| US09517442B2 |
Dispersants having biobased compounds
The present disclosure is directed to compositions having lecithin and an organic acid and related methods. The disclosed compositions may also include one or more co-surfactants such as anionic surfactants and/or non-ionic surfactants, and may be used as a dispersant. |
| US09517441B2 |
Beverage dispensing systems and methods of dispensing beverages from beverage dispensing systems
Systems and methods of beverage dispensing include a dispensing unit, at least one diluent source, and at least one flavoring source. An amount of beverage product to dispense is calculated and a beverage product including at least one diluent and at least one flavoring is dispensed. An actual diluent-to-flavoring ratio is calculated based upon at least one value from the sensing unit during the dispense of the beverage product. |
| US09517440B2 |
Sample mixing device
A device (1) for mixing a sample, in particular for an automatic chemical analysis instrument, comprises a receptacle device with at least two moveably guided container receptacles (21-24, 31.1), with each container receptacle (21-24, 31.1) comprising a support region for holding a sample container (41-44). The support regions of the two container receptacles (21-24, 31.1) are arranged at different heights in an operational state of the device (1). |
| US09517439B1 |
Systems to store and agitate fuel
Systems to store and agitate fuel can include a fuel storage tank and a fuel agitation system coupled to the fuel storage tank and operable to agitate a fuel that is stored in the fuel storage tank. The fuel agitation system can include an elongate fuel agitation member with a lumen, an air passageway in pneumatic communication with the elongate fuel agitation member, and a circular disk connected to the elongate fuel agitation member and having a plurality of valves. The air passageway can be coupled to the elongate fuel agitation member by a rotational coupling located in the fuel tank and pneumatically actuated by air flow from the air passageway to cause the elongate fuel agitation member to rotate. Each of the plurality of valves can be in pneumatic communication with the elongate fuel agitation member to release air into the fuel in the fuel storage tank. |
| US09517438B2 |
Programmable membrane system
Functionalized membranes for use in applications, such as electrodeionization, can be prepared simply and efficiently by associating a first element of a specific binding pair to a membrane surface and binding a second species comprising the second element of the specific binding pair and at least one functional group to form a complex on the membrane surface. Such membranes may be reversibly modified by disassociating the complex, thereby, providing a fresh surface which may be re-modified according to the preceding methods. |
| US09517433B2 |
Selective water vapour transport membranes comprising a nanofibrous layer and methods for making the same
A water vapor transport membrane comprises a nanofibrous layer disposed on a macroporous support layer, the nanofibrous layer coated with a water permeable polymer. A method for making a water vapor transport membrane comprises forming a nanofibrous layer on a macroporous support layer and applying a water permeable polymer to the nanofibrous layer. The water permeable polymer can be applied for so that the nanofibrous layer is substantially or partially filled with the water permeable polymer, or so that the coating forms a substantially continuous layer on one surface of the nanofibrous layer. In some embodiments of the method, the nanofibrous layer is formed by electro-spinning at least one polymer on at least one side of the porous support layer. In some embodiments, the support layer is formable and the method further comprises forming a three-dimensional structure from the water vapor transport membrane, for example, by compression molding, pleating or corrugating. |
| US09517429B2 |
Filtration monitoring system
The present disclosure is a filtration monitoring system. Filtration monitoring system may include a sensor configured to measure a characteristic of usage of a monitored filter. The sensor may be communicatively coupled to a controller which is configured to transfer measured data to a server of the filter monitoring system. Server may be configured to store historical data regarding representative filter usage and may determine a predicted expiration time for a monitored filter which may be adjusted based upon the measured data from the sensor. |
| US09517428B2 |
Filter for a portable industrial air filtration device
Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a filter for a portable industrial air filtration device. The filter generally includes a body and a limit switch actuator attached to the body. The body includes filter media and a rigidized material. The filter media is attached to the rigidized material, and the body has opposing upper and lower edges. The limit switch actuator includes a head and an actuator connected to and extending from the head. The limit switch actuator is attached to the body such the actuator extends below the lower edge of the body and is configured to actuate a limit switch actuator of an air filtration device when the filter is installed in the air filtration device. |
| US09517426B2 |
Oil filter
The filter has a head (10) with an oil inlet and an oil outlet (11,12), and to which is coupled an open end (21) of a cup (20) lodging a filtering element (30) which has an inner central chamber (32) and an outer annular chamber (33), connected to the oil inlet and oil outlet (11,12). A top cap (50) has a median annular portion (52) affixed to the filtering element (30), and a peripheral portion (53) with windows and positioned on an open end (33a) of the outer annular chamber (33) and seated onto the open end (21) of the cup (20). Rotational locking means (60) and axial locking means (80) are incorporated to the open end (21) of the cup (20) or to the peripheral portion (53) of the top cap (50), it being further provided, in the other of said parts, rotational locking receiving means (70) and axial locking receiving means (90), in which are fitted and retained the rotational locking means (60) and the axial locking means (80). |
| US09517425B2 |
Filter element, method for manufacturing and use thereof
The invention relates to a filter element, a method for manufacturing the filter element, and use. The filter element (1) is formed of a solid-liquid filter fabric (2) and has at least one separately manufactured support element (14) fastened to it. The support is a plate-like piece. |
| US09517422B2 |
Toy tethering device
A tethering assembly includes a housing that may be positioned on a support surface. A plurality of arms radiates outwardly from the housing. A plurality of cylinders is each coupled to a distal end of an associated one of the arms. A plurality of cords each extends outwardly from the distal end of an associated one of the arms and an associated one of the cylinders. A plurality of clips is each coupled to an associated one of the cords. Each of the clips may be coupled to an associated one of a plurality of toys. A plurality of retractors is each positioned within an associated one of the arms. Each of the retractors has an associated one of the cords is coupled thereto. Thus, the retractors each allow the clips to be moved between a minimum distance and a maximum distance away from the housing. |
| US09517421B1 |
Device for fanciful detection of ghosts
A novelty toy, apparel, or jewelry, device for fanciful detection of ghosts, or other paranormal phenomena, through exploitation of Hall Effect, or of thermochromic material. |
| US09517420B2 |
Water amusement device
Disclosed is a deflector for a water dump apparatus positioned within a flow path of water discharged from a selectably dischargable container. The deflector comprises a deflector body having a top deflection surface thereon, a pivot mount for pivotally supporting the deflector body and an adjustor for selectably fixing the deflector plate at an orientation desired by a user. The deflector body may extend between first and second ends and be pivotally supported at the first end thereof. The deflector surface may be a planar concave or convex surface. The deflector body has an exterior edge which is substantially circular. The adjustor may comprise an actuator such as a hydraulic cylinder or a pin selectably engageable within one of a plurality of notches. |
| US09517419B1 |
Playground for handicapped children
The playground for handicapped children is a collection of playground equipment designed for use by handicapped children. The playground for handicapped children comprises a bridge, a slide, a swing set, and a ball pen. |
| US09517416B1 |
System and method for dynamically determining crafting parameters based on user usage rate of a virtual space
A system and method for dynamically determining parameters of crafting activities for individual users in a virtual space are disclosed. The crafting activity parameters may be determined based on rate of usage of the virtual space by the users. In some examples, a user usage rate of the virtual space may be determined to measure an amount of time a user spend in the virtual space during a period of real-world time. Based on the determined user usage rate of the virtual space, crafting activity parameters may be determined, for example, to balance differences in time spent in the virtual space by the users. In some implementations, for such determinations of the crafting activity parameters, one or more user normalization standards may be obtained. |
| US09517414B2 |
Online game creation using data sets
The disclosed embodiments provide a system that facilitates creation of an online game. During operation, the system obtains a data set and a game template for the online game. Next, the system enables a user to select one or more subsets of the data set for use with the game template. Finally, the system creates the online game from the game template and data from the one or more subsets without requiring manual input of the data into the game template by the user. |
| US09517412B2 |
Systems and methods for manipulation of objects
Systems and methods for manipulating an object include a display for displaying an object where the object has a geometric shape and is arranged in a first orientation of the geometric shape. The display also displays at least a second orientation of the geometric shape in proximity to the object. The system includes a user interface for receiving a user input to select the second orientation of the geometric shape. A processor, in communication with the display and user interface, determines one or more possible orientations of the object including the second orientation and arranges the orientation of the geometric shape of the object to match the selected second orientation. |
| US09517409B2 |
Server device, and non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing game program
A server device according to the present invention is connected with a player terminal through a network, displays, in the player terminal, a screen in which a plurality of types of playable games is listed, receives a reservation registration request of automatic play information in which a game and a start timing specified by the player are set, and perform reservation registration of the automatic play information of the player. The server device determines whether automatically starting a game play of the specified game at the specified start timing based on the automatic play information subjected to the reservation registration, and automatically starts the game play of the game at the start timing when the determination is affirmed. |
| US09517407B2 |
Game system and game controller
A second game controller includes both of a first detection section provided in a first game controller, and a second detection section provided in an extended controller that is detachably connected to the first game controller. An operation to the second game controller is detectable by the both detection sections, but the result of the detection by the first detection section is not included in transmission data to be transmitted to a game apparatus. |
| US09517406B2 |
Interactive gaming apparel for interactive gaming
Apparel is disclosed that can be worn to assist an interactive game in tracking the movement of the wearer. More particularly, the apparel may include one or more tracking marks formed of designs, patterns, or reflective materials that can be easily tracked by an interactive game employing one or more cameras or other detectors for detecting a change in position of an object. The apparel may take the form of, for example, hats, shirts, jackets, pants, gloves, and shoes. The apparel may use reflective materials, and the interactive game can employ a camera and a light source configuration where the camera is located within the observation angle of a player employing retroreflective materials reflecting light from the light source. |
| US09517401B2 |
Shoulder pads incorporating a cervical spine protection device
A shoulder pad having a cervical spine protection system including shoulder pads and a cervical spine protection device. The cervical spine protection device includes a lower portion engaged with a user's shoulders, an upper portion designed for engagement with a user's helmet when an axial force is applied to a portion of the helmet, the upper portion having a front section, a rear section, and side sections, where the front section, rear section, and side sections of the upper portion have a top surface. The cervical spine protection device also includes a middle portion disposed between the lower portion and the upper portion. The cervical spine protection device further includes an outside portion shaped to engage with shoulder pads, where the outside portion comprises a substantially c-shaped design, with the lower portion and the upper portion extending laterally further than the middle portion away from the user's neck, and an inside portion shaped to fit around a user's neck. |
| US09517400B2 |
Custom-formable mouth guard and method of fabrication
A mouth guard composed of a polymer consisting essentially of polycaprolactone exhibits a low softening point, enabling it to be easily custom-fitted by the user or a health professional. The material is provided in the form of a generally U-shaped, unformed sheet of material, enabling the material to be heated with hot water or microwave energy and custom-fitted to the dentition of a user. The mouth guard may be perforated and may include a no-stick layer and/or a flavoring agent. A plurality of mouth guards may be provided in different sizes for children and adults and different shapes for different sports. In the preferred embodiments the mouth guard has a periphery including a plurality of lobes and cusps to enhance fitting. A method of fabricating an improved mouth guard according to the invention is also disclosed. |
| US09517399B1 |
Portable golf impact practice mat
The portable golf impact practice mat is a golf practice mat that provides visual indicators to inform of three extremely important impact conditions using a digital display, a signal generating unit and a plurality of LED (light emitting diode). One of them indicates the swing path in reference to how the golf club head moves toward the target. Another detects and indicates if the club head hits the golf mat in front of the ball also known as a “fat shot”. Lastly, the third displays a club head speed upon impact. The present invention is designed to be used by attaching to the general golf practice mats widely found in public golf driving ranges or personal golf practice mats. The present invention is compact, folds in half and fits in one-hand providing portability. |
| US09517397B2 |
Sport performance system with ball sensing
A player training apparatus for use with a portable performance system. The portable performance system includes a processor, a memory and a display. The training apparatus includes an American-style football, at least one sensor coupled to the football, at least one transmitter coupled to the football and operably coupled to the sensor, and a non-transient computer-readable medium containing code. The code directs the processor to: receive input pertaining to motion of the football; derive at least one football motion parameter from the input pertaining to the motion of the football; and display information relating to the input. The at least one football motion parameter includes spiral efficiency. |
| US09517396B2 |
Curling broom incorporating a motor
A motorized broom that may be used in the game of curling is provided. The broom comprises a moveable synthetic fabric brush head that can provide a sweeping motion consistent with the regulatory requirements governing the game of curling. The motorized curling broom can assist individuals who would otherwise not be able to effectively accomplish a sweeping motion with their own strength or stamina to participate recreationally and competitively in the game. The curling broom comprises: a motor and associated gear reduction and crank configuration for causing a sinusoidal back and forth sweeping action of the brush head. The broom further includes a user control mechanism for intuitive adjustment of the power supplied to the brush head by way of controlling the speed of the motor and the pressure applied to the sweeping surface. A dynamic balancing mechanism reduces unwanted vibration transmitted to the individual using the broom. |
| US09517393B2 |
Hollow golf club head with polymeric cap
A hollow golf club head includes a metallic body, a club face, and a polymeric insert that cooperate to at least partially define a closed internal cavity. The metallic body includes a sole, a topline, and a rear wall defining an opening, with the rear wall being disposed between the topline and the sole. The club face is disposed between the topline and the sole, and on an opposite side of the sole from the rear wall. A strut extends across the opening and is secured to the body, and a polymeric insert covers the opening and is secured both to the body and to the strut. |
| US09517392B2 |
Iron-type golf club head
An iron-type golf club head has a face for hitting a ball, a sole extending backward from the lower edge of the face and extending in the toe-heel direction of the head so as to define the bottom surface of the club head, and a hosel extending upward in a heel-side of the face and provided with a shaft inserting hole. The club head is composed of a head main body including the face, and a weight member having a specific gravity larger than that of the head main body and fixed to the head main body. The weight member integrally includes a first part extending in the toe-heel direction in the sole, and a second part constituting at least substantial portion of the hosel. |
| US09517391B2 |
Adjustable golf club and system and associated golf club heads and shafts
In general, aspects of this invention relate to golf clubs or golf club components incorporating adjustment members that permit ready adjustability of golf club parameters and/or interchangeability of golf club components to change a golf club configuration, and methods for providing golf clubs. According to aspects of this invention, an adjustment member may be utilized to allow the adjustability of a golf club parameter to change a golf club configuration, while ensuring there is substantially no change to other club or club head variables, parameters or characteristics. According to another aspect of this invention, an adjustment member may be utilized to allow the adjustability of two golf club parameters independently to change a golf club configuration, while ensuring there is substantially no change to other club or club head variables, parameters or characteristics. |
| US09517389B2 |
Beach ball including light-emitting device and light-emitting device accommodating groove
The present invention relates to a beach ball including a light-emitting device which can be disposed in the beach ball and a light-emitting device accommodating groove which can removably accommodate the light-emitting device in the ball such that the beach ball can be played with even at night. |
| US09517385B2 |
Golf ball and process for preparing the same
An object of the present invention is to provide a golf ball providing a great distance. Another object of the present invention is to provide a golf ball striking a balance between a flight distance on a driver shot and an approach performance on an approach shot while providing an excellent shot feeling. The present invention provides a golf ball comprising: a center, a cover and at least one intermediate layer disposed between the center and the cover, wherein at least one piece or one layer of the intermediate layer is formed from a high fluidity intermediate layer composition that contains (A) a polyamide resin composition having a flexural modulus in a range from 700 MPa to 4,000 MPa; (B) at least one member selected from the group consisting of an ethylene-(meth)acrylic acid binary copolymer, a metal-neutralized product of the binary copolymer, an ethylene-(meth)acrylic acid-(meth)acrylic acid ester ternary copolymer, and a metal-neutralized product of the ternary copolymer, and (C) a fluidity improving agent. |
| US09517381B2 |
Medical leg support arrangement adapted to increase the range of motion of a leg to aid in the healing and strengthening of damaged, injured and/or replaced bone, muscle and/or tissue of the leg
A medical leg support arrangement includes a main housing having a platform that a foot of a user would rest and be fastened there upon. Rotatable ground engaging strips are provided on opposing sides of the platform, wherein each rotatable ground engaging strip includes curved and/or arched up distal ends such that when in use weight bearing support of the arrangement is maintained upon initial contact and departure of the arrangement from the ground so as to allow continuous support to the leg of the user during back and forth circumferential motion instigated by the user when ground engaging the arrangement. |
| US09517380B2 |
Knee rehabilitation assistance device
A device for exercising leg muscles, ligaments, and tendons attendant to movement of a human knee following knee replacement surgery or during rehabilitation following knee injury is provided. The user lies supine on a flat surface and braces the back of his or her upper thigh against the device's leg support bar, so that the user's upper thigh is approximately perpendicular to the user's upper torso. The patient maintains this position and exercises the knee by extending and flexing his or her lower leg. Some embodiments include an elastic band that attaches to the device in a position that limits the degree of leg flexion to within a desired range. Some embodiments include an ankle strap attached to a cord, which may be used to build quadriceps strength through application of resistance, and/or for applying downward pulling force to the lower leg during passive range-of-motion exercising. |
| US09517373B2 |
Sprinkler head removal system and method
A sprinkler head removal is disclosed. The sprinkler head remover comprises a tip portion having a width, a shaft having a first end and a second end; and, a handle having a first end and a second end. The tip portion releaseably connects to a sprinkler socket of a sprinkler head. The tip portion attaches to the first end of the shaft. The handle attaches to the second end of the shaft. The width of the tip portion varies according to an internal diameter of the sprinkler socket. |
| US09517370B2 |
Distribution of fire suppressing agent in a stovetop fire suppressor and method
An automatic stovetop fire suppressor providing a gradual release of a fire suppressing agent in a desired distribution pattern and method of gradual and spatial agent release are provided herein. A plastic cone shaped lid seals on the bottom of a can and forms a closed container. The closed container is filled with a fire suppressing agent. An initiator charge breaks a designed breaking point of a reduced horizontal cross sectional area when fuse activated. The bottom lid drops down exposing a radial opening. Fire suppressing agent flows out of the radial opening, suppressing a stovetop fire with minimal or no splashing of cooking oil. An initiator housing is affixed to a top wall of the can and serves as the welding point for securing the plastic lid. A travel limiting member attached to the bottom lid catches on a shoulder of the initiator housing to limit the radial opening height. |
| US09517366B2 |
Respirator mask speech enhancement apparatus and method
Speech enhancement apparatus and respirator masks including speech enhancement apparatus, as well as methods of enhancing speech transmission for the wearer of a respirator mask are described herein. In one or more embodiments, the speech enhancement apparatus and methods described herein detect acoustic energy within a first frequency range in the clean air envelope of a respirator mask and deliver compensating acoustic energy outside of the clean air envelope using a speaker. The compensating acoustic energy is, in one or more embodiments, delivered in one or more predetermined attenuated frequency ranges that cover less than all of the detected first frequency range. In one or more embodiments, the compensating acoustic energy may be delivered with an attenuated amplitude profile that uniform or that is non-uniform over the one or more attenuated frequency ranges. |
| US09517361B2 |
Crystal encapsulated nanoparticles methods and compositions
The invention provides methods for encapsulating nanometric particles inside of micro-sized crystals. An exemplary embodiment involves crystallizing a solution including nanometric particles, a micelle-forming material, a nonpolar dispersant for the micelle-forming material and a crystal-forming material to form crystal-encapsulated nanometric particles. Also provided are compositions or materials which include or are formed using the crystal encapsulated nanoparticles, such compositions and materials can include propellants, cosmetics, composite structures, energetics, and pharmaceutical compositions/materials. |
| US09517360B2 |
Nitrocellulose-free nail polish compositions
The present invention relates to a nail polish composition, comprising at least one high gloss film forming agent chosen from an esterified styrene maleic anhydride copolymer, a non-esterified styrene maleic anhydride copolymer and mixtures thereof, at least one co-film forming agent chosen from an epoxy resin, optionally, at least one plasticizer, at least one solvent, and optionally, at least one colorant, wherein the composition does not require use of nitrocellulose and can be used to makeup or protect nails. Such compositions impart high gloss, good adhesion and long wear properties. |
| US09517359B2 |
High intensity focused ultrasound device with a concave segment shaped transducer for eye treatment
A device for treatment of an ocular pathology characterized in that it comprises at least one eye ring (1) wherein the proximal end of said eye ring (1) is suitable to be applied onto the globe and a generator (2,17) to generate ultrasound beam fixed on the distal end of the eye ring (1), the generator to generate ultrasound beam presenting a concave segment shape conformed along a single curvature corresponding to a single direction wherein the concavity is designed to be tuned towards the eyeglobe. |
| US09517356B2 |
Optical therapeutic apparatus
An optical therapeutic apparatus includes an ear shield for covering a wearer's ear, which has a plurality of acupuncture points; a hanging member including a connection portion connected to the ear shield; and a plurality of light emitters disposed within an interior portion of the ear shield in array manner to face the plurality of acupuncture points respectively. The plurality of light emitters includes a plurality of acupoint-stimulation elements, each corresponding to a respective one of the acupuncture points, at least two sets of the acupoint-stimulation elements are capable of emitting stimulation light beams at different time intervals. |
| US09517353B2 |
Photovoltaic generation device and system and application thereof to an implantable medical device
A photovoltaic device including a CIGS photovoltaic module having a so-called top surface, intended to be exposed to light radiation; and a light emitting diode emitting light at a wavelength of less than 600 nm and transparent to radiation in the near infrared, attached to the top surface of the photovoltaic module. A photovoltaic generation system having: at least one such photovoltaic device; a system of switches to selectively connect the photovoltaic module to the light emitting diode or to a terminal supplying an external load; and a control circuit for controlling the system of switches. An electrical system having: such a photovoltaic generation system; a battery connected to the supply terminal; and at least one electronic circuit connected to the battery in order to be powered. An implantable medical device having such an electronic system. |
| US09517352B2 |
Accessory apparatus for improved recharging of implantable medical device
An apparatus configured to be placed about an implantable medical device having a face with a geometric center offset from a center of a recharge coil of the device includes first and second opposing major exterior surfaces, and a continuous exterior side surface joining the first and second opposing major exterior surfaces. A cavity is defined between, and an opening is formed by, the first and second major surfaces and the continuous side surface. The opening is in communication with the cavity and is configured to allow the device to access the cavity. An asymmetric region, adjacent to the cavity, is formed between a portion of the first and second major surfaces and the continuous side surface. The asymmetric region is configured to shift the geometric center of the combined apparatus and device, when the device is received in the cavity, towards the center of the recharge coil. |
| US09517349B2 |
System and method for treating soft tissue with force impulse and electrical stimulation
A system for treating soft tissue of a patient. The system includes a treatment head and a computer portion. The treatment head includes a probe and an electrode operably coupled to the probe. The probe and electrode are configured to respectively deliver a mechanical force impulse and an electrical stimulation to the soft tissue when placed in operable contact with the soft tissue. The computer portion includes a CPU and is configured to coordinate the delivery of the mechanical force impulse and electrical stimulation relative to each other. The system is configured to sense a shockwave in the soft tissue of the patient, the shockwave resulting from the mechanical force impulse delivered to the soft tissue via the probe. The system is also configured to analyze a characteristic of the sensed shockwave and configure the electrical stimulation to be delivered to the soft tissue via the electrode based on the characteristic analysis of the sensed shockwave. The characteristic may be at least one of frequency of the sensed shockwave, amplitude of the sensed shockwave, and/or wave shape (form) of the sensed shockwave. |
| US09517343B2 |
Implantable pulse generator that generates spinal cord stimulation signals for a human body
An implantable pulse generator (IPG) that generates spinal cord stimulation signals for a human body has a programmable signal generator that can generate the signals based on stored signal parameters without any intervention from a processor that controls the overall operation of the IPG. While the signal generator is generating the signals the processor can be in a standby mode to substantially save battery power. |
| US09517340B2 |
Hybrid method for modulating upper airway function in a subject
A hybrid method is provided for modulating upper airway function in a subject. The method includes applying first and second therapy signals to the subject to modulate at least one extrinsic laryngeal muscle and at least one intrinsic laryngeal muscle to synergistically control laryngeal motion and vocal fold movement, respectively. |
| US09517338B1 |
Multichannel clip device and methods of use
A multichannel clip device and methods of use that facilitate connection of multiple electrical components of a first device and a second device for testing and/or verification are provided herein. Such multichannel clip devices can include a spring-loaded clip having multiple electrical contacts for coupling with a contact portion of a first device and which are connected to a proximal connector through a flexible stimulation cable. The contacts can be included within a neurostimulation lead connector and the proximal connector adapted to couple with standard connectors on a clinician programmer, each contact being coupled to a corresponding contact of the proximal connector to define multiple separate channels. Such clip devices allow clinicians to test and/or verify multiple neurostimulation lead electrodes with a clinician programmers without requiring separate connection of each electrodes to a probe or test device and further allows for repeated sequencing or multi-plexing of neurostimulation leads during testing. |
| US09517332B2 |
Anchors including rigid bodies defining full length slots for use with implantable medical leads
Anchors for use with implantable medical leads include an elastic body containing one or more rigid bodies that have longitudinal free edges. The longitudinal free edges run from end to end to define full length slots. Partial length slots may also be included within the one or more rigid bodies. The full length and partial length slots allow for deflection of the rigid bodies against the body of an implantable medical lead to hold the anchor in place on the lead. The full length slots allow a blade to pass through and cut a slit in the elastic body which allows the anchor to be removed from the lead. |
| US09517331B2 |
Iontophoresis patch
An iontophoresis patch is equipped with a donor gel and a reference gel which are disposed to contact an external conductor, for example, the skin of a patient and thereby output current from a current-carrying device to the external conductor. The iontophoresis patch includes: a donor portion having the donor gel containing a medical agent to be penetrated into the external conductor; a reference portion having a reference gel, mounted with the current-carrying device on the surface on the side opposite to the reference gel, and disposed on the external conductor apart from the donor portion; and an electrode film for supplying current from the current-carrying device to the donor gel and the reference gel. |
| US09517319B2 |
Wearing tool for breathing mask, and breathing mask
For reducing a discomfort feeling brought by wearing a breathing mask, a wearing tool for the breathing mask which covers nostrils of a user and supplies gas for breathing to the nostrils comprises a pair of connecting members each of which has a longitudinal shape and has a first end portion which is connected to the breathing mask, and a pair of fixing members each of which is connected to a second end portion of the fixing member and is plugged in the tragus of the user. Hence a discomfort feeling due to restraining around the head of the user can be reduced. |
| US09517314B2 |
Dose indicator device
A dose indicator device for a pressurized metered dose inhaler comprises an inner wheel, annular outer wheel, actuator and housing; the inner wheel comprising primary indexing teeth and a flexible drive arm; the outer wheel comprising secondary indexing teeth on an outer face of the outer wheel; the inner wheel and outer wheel located at least partially within the housing such that the inner wheel and outer wheel are rotatable about a common longitudinal axis of rotation; the actuator movable in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation to engage the primary indexing teeth to rotate the inner wheel; the housing being fixed relative to the axis of rotation and comprising a deflector; the deflector configured such that, on rotation of the inner wheel, the drive arm is intermittently deflected and brought into contact with the secondary indexing teeth to rotate the outer wheel about the axis of rotation. |
| US09517310B2 |
Pen injector with resetting mechanism for receiving new cartridge during driver decoupling and proximal spindle retraction
A resettable dose setting mechanism for a drug delivery device comprising a driver for driving a spindle of the drug delivery device is provided. Said driver comprises a first component and a second component rotationally coupled to said first component. During resetting of said drug delivery device, said first component is rotationally decoupled from said second component. |
| US09517309B2 |
Control of plunger position in an injection device
An injection device includes a housing, a receptacle for receiving a medicine cartridge and configured for attachment to a proximal end of the housing, and a leadscrew having an end for engaging with a bung of a cartridge. The leadscrew has a first thread extending axially along an outer surface thereof and at least one axially extending guide track. The injection device includes a rotatable drive mechanism for engaging with the first thread or guide track, and a guiding element for engaging with the other of the first thread or guide track, the guiding element being non-rotatable with respect to the housing during an injection operation, whereby rotation of the drive mechanism causes the leadscrew to move axially in a proximal direction in order to deliver a dose from the cartridge. The injection device further includes a stop member located proximal to the rotatable drive mechanism and the guiding element. |
| US09517307B2 |
Devices and methods for delivering opioid antagonists including formulations for naloxone
An apparatus includes a container, a needle, and an actuation assembly. The container contains a dose of a naloxone composition having a delivered volume of at least about 0.34 mL. The actuation assembly includes an energy storage member that produces a force on a movable member to move the needle and to deliver the dose of the naloxone composition. The 90% confidence interval of at least one of the relative mean maximum naloxone plasma concentration after dose delivery into the body (Cmax), time to reach the maximum naloxone plasma concentration (Tmax), area under the plasma concentration-time curve from pre-dose (time 0) extrapolated to infinity (AUC0-∞), or area under the plasma concentration-time curve from pre-dose (time 0) to the time of the last quantifiable concentration (Tlast) (AUC0-t) of the delivered dose to a delivered dose of a corresponding naloxone composition delivered via a manually-actuated syringe is within 80% to 125%. |
| US09517306B2 |
Method and system for closed-loop control of an artificial pancreas
A local extremum of a function ƒ is determined by computing a Jacobian of ƒ at a test point x by adding an imaginary part to x and a Hessian of ƒ by adding two imaginary parts to a multicomplex copy of x and extracting a third imaginary part. Solving a system of equations defined by the Jacobian and Hessian yields a delta; the process is repeated until convergence. This method is used in each of a series of time intervals to compute an insulin-delivery amount for an insulin pump. ƒ is a model-predictive-control cost function; x is a set of successive candidate insulin delivery amounts beginning from a selected time interval. A system includes a glucose monitor and a controller using glucose measurement data therefrom to determine an insulin delivery amount for a time interval by minimizing ƒ; an insulin pump provides insulin corresponding to the delivery amount. |
| US09517305B2 |
Medical fluid injector
Systems and methods for intelligently delivering fluid to a targeted tissue. The systems and methods may include directing a pump to distribute fluid to a targeted tissue and receiving one or more signals from an intracorporeal sensing system, where the one or more signals correspond to one or more sensed feedback parameters at the targeted tissue. The systems and methods may also include determining whether the one or more sensed feedback parameters are within an acceptable range. If the one or more sensed feedback parameters are not within the acceptable range, the systems and methods may include determining an adjusted velocity for the plunger necessary to adjust the pressure of the fluid in the pump so that the one or more sensed feedback parameters move within the acceptable range and directing the pump to distribute the fluid at the adjusted velocity. |
| US09517299B2 |
Smart connection interface
A method and apparatus for a connection interface between a reservoir or syringe, infusion set tubing, and an infusion pump is provided. The reservoir, a base and a cap are connected to form an integrated unit that is capable of being inserted and secured in an infusion pump housing. The cap and the infusion pump are each provided with at least one sensor or at least one detectable feature, arranged to interact with at least one corresponding detectable feature or sensor on the other of the cap and infusion pump device, to detect one or more of the presence, position or other characteristic of the cap when the cap is aligned or coupled with the infusion pump housing. The detectable feature and sensor may be magnetic, RF, mechanical, optical or any combination. |
| US09517295B2 |
Blood treatment systems and methods
Dialysis systems are disclosed comprising new fluid flow circuits. Systems may include blood and dialysate flow paths, where the dialysate flow path includes balancing, mixing, and/or directing circuits. Dialysis systems may include a safety system utilizing a field programmable gate array (FPGA) that monitors at least conductivity and temperature of dialysate in the flow circuit upstream of a dialyzer and enters a fail-safe state if the measured conductivity is outside of a range of values. The FPGA may be verified to be operating properly by exposing sensors in fluid paths to temperatures or conductivities that are outside pre-determined permissible ranges of values, and confirming that the FPGA safety system enters a fail-safe state in response to the temperatures or conductivities. The FPGA may be configured to monitor an amount of ultrafiltration fluid withdrawn from a patient during dialysis treatment and to enter a fail-safe state if a maximum amount is exceeded. |
| US09517293B2 |
Tricalcium phosphates, their composites, implants incorporating them, and methods for their production
Methods for the synthesis of tricalcium phosphates are presented, as well as a series of specific reaction parameters that can be adjusted to tailor, in specific ways, properties in the tricalcium phosphate precursor precipitate. Particulate tricalcium phosphate compositions having an average crystal size of about 250 nm or less are provided. Compositions of the invention can be used as prosthetic implants and coatings for prosthetic implants. |
| US09517290B2 |
Polymers for intraocular lenses
The present invention provides optic portions, intraocular lenses, and polymers for use in manufacturing optic portions and intraocular lenses. The optic portions include a polymer that comprises (a) one or more alkoxyalkyl methacrylate monomers and/or one or more alkoxyalkyl acrylate monomers that are incorporated in the polymer; (b) one or more hydroxyalkyl methacrylate monomers and/or one or more hydroxyalkyl acrylate monomers that are incorporated in the polymer; and (c) optionally, one or more crosslinking agents that are incorporated in the polymer. |
| US09517289B2 |
Water-absorbing agent and method for producing the same
The present invention provides a water-absorbing agent that includes water-absorbent resin particles as essential components and is suitable for a sanitary material. A water-absorbing agent of the present invention includes water-absorbent resin particles obtained by polymerizing an unsaturated monomer having an acid group. The water-absorbing agent has centrifuge retention capacity (CRC) of 5 to 20 g/g and includes: a compound with a structure unit derived from polyalkyleneglycol other than the unsaturated monomer; and a multivalent metal salt, and accordingly the water-absorbing agent has high saline flow conductivity (SFC) in a range of the above centrifuge retention capacity (CRC). |
| US09517288B2 |
Process for manufacturing absorbent sanitary paper products
A method of manufacturing an absorbent sanitary paper product having a machine direction, a cross-machine direction orthogonal and co-planar thereto, and a Z-direction orthogonal to both the machine- and cross-machine directions is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of: a. providing a first network of fibers having a first and a second side, each fiber of the first network of fibers having a longitudinal axis generally disposed within the plane comprising the machine- and cross-machine-directions; b. applying a first bonding layer in a first pattern to one of the first and second sides of the first network of fibers; and, c. applying a first second network of fibers to the first bonding layer, the first second network of fibers comprising a combination of a first plurality of fibers and a second plurality of fibers. The first and second pluralities of fibers are different. |
| US09517286B1 |
Aroma diffusing system and aroma diffusing method thereof
The present invention relates to an aroma diffusing system and aroma diffusing method thereof. This method includes establishing wireless communication connection between a mobile terminal and an aroma diffuser; receiving user input and generating a corresponding order through the mobile terminal and sending the order in a wireless mode; receiving the order through the wireless communication module of the aroma diffuser and executing the order through the electric control element of the aroma diffuser; feeding back order execution result to the mobile terminal through the wireless communication module of the aroma diffuser; receiving the order execution result through the mobile terminal and giving a corresponding prompt in the mobile terminal. The present invention may control the operation mode of the aroma diffuser and improve operation experience and use experience through a smart phone. |
| US09517285B2 |
System and method for carpet-odor treatment
The present invention provides a system and method for treating carpet that includes a hollow tube having a first end and a second end, wherein the tube further includes: a plurality of injection holes located near the second end of the tube, a pointed tip located at the second end of the tube, and a lug moveably attached to the tube; the method including inserting the tube into a carpet by penetrating the pointed tip into the carpet; lifting the tube up via the lug such that a portion of the carpet is pulled away from padding located underneath the carpet; and inserting fluid into the tube at the first end of the tube such that the fluid is injected into the carpet via the injection holes. |
| US09517284B1 |
Germicidal apparatuses with configurations to selectively conduct different disinfection modes interior and exterior to the apparatus
Apparatuses are provided which include one or more germicidal sources, power circuitry coupled to the germicidal source/s, and a shield. The shield and/or at least one of the germicidal source/s are moveable within the apparatus and the apparatus is configured such that the shield and/or the germicidal source/s may be brought in and out of proximity with the other and upon doing so germicide projected from one or more of the germicidal source/s is either substantially contained in the apparatus or is projected exterior to the apparatus for different disinfection modes of the apparatus. The apparatuses include a processor and processor-executable program instructions for activating the power circuitry to operate the at least one germicidal source when the germicidal source is not encased within the apparatus and for activating the power circuitry to operate at least one germicidal source when the germicidal source/s are encased within the apparatus. |
| US09517281B2 |
Process and radiator device for wort sterilization by radiation for ethanol production
A method and irradiator apparatus used for wort sterilization by radiation for production of ethanol from sugar cane, comprising a trough-like fluid duct and a radiation source for directing radiation over the flow of a fluid conducted through the duct, and application of radiation to a fluid within an apparatus for sterilization of such fluid. |
| US09517278B2 |
Compound and photoacoustic imaging contrast medium containing the compound
The present invention provides a photoacoustic imaging contrast medium which exhibits a high degree of accumulation into a tumor even when some extent of time has passed after performing administration and which facilitates an increase in the intensity of photoacoustic signal produced by the tumor.A compound produced by covalent-bonding of an organic dye which absorbs light in the near-infrared wavelength region and a PEG having a branch. |
| US09517268B2 |
Process for producing inorganic particulate material
The present invention is directed to a process for producing inorganic particulate material, the material obtainable by such process, a modified release delivery system comprising the material and the use of the material for the administration of a bioactive agent. |
| US09517260B2 |
Treatment of pigs with PCV2 antigen
The present invention relates to a method for the treatment or prophylaxis of a PCV2 infection or for reduction of clinical symptoms caused by or associated with a PCV2 infection in animals a) having anti-PCV2 antibodies and/or b) being young piglets of 1 to 22 days of age, comprising the step of administering an effective amount of a PCV2 antigen to that animal in need of such treatment. Preferably, those animals are pigs or young piglets. |
| US09517259B2 |
West Nile Virus vaccine
The invention provides for immunogenic compositions against West Nile Virus. The immunogenic compositions, in alternate embodiments, also include other equine pathogens. The West Nile Virus composition of the present invention advantageously provides for protection against North American Dominant West Nile Virus strains or isolates. |
| US09517256B2 |
Vaccine and method for treatment of neurodegenerative diseases
Methods and compositions are provided for treatment of neurodegenerative diseases in which there is accumulation of misfolded and/or aggregated proteins, excluding prion diseases. In particular, the invention relates to treatment of the neurodegenerative diseases Huntington's disease (HD), Alzheimer's disease (AD) or Parkinson's disease (PD), by administration of an agent selected from the group consisting of (i) Copolymer 1, (ii) a Copolymer 1-related peptide, (iii) a Copolymer 1-related polypeptide, and (iv) T cells activated with (i), (ii) or (iii). |
| US09517253B2 |
Compositions for treating multiple sclerosis
Compositions comprising Tr1 cells directed to a multiple sclerosis associated antigen and methods for treating multiple sclerosis. |
| US09517250B2 |
Methods for generating cardiomyocytes
The present disclosure provides method of generating cardiomyocytes from post-natal fibroblasts. The present disclosure further provides cells and compositions for use in generating cardiomyocytes. |
| US09517242B2 |
Dosage forms for oral administration of zoledronic acid or related compounds for treating disease
Oral dosage forms of bisphosphonate compounds, such as zoledronic acid, can be used to treat or alleviate pain or related conditions. The bioavailability of zoledronic acid can be enhanced by administering the zoledronic acid in the disodium salt form. |
| US09517237B2 |
Compounds and methods for treating multiple sclerosis
The invention described herein pertains to the treatment of multiple sclerosis. In particular, the invention described herein pertains to the treatment of multiple sclerosis using compounds that modulate the action of acrolein. |
| US09517234B2 |
Tetrandrine family pharmaceutical formulations and method
Drug formulations, methods and their use in treatment of diseases using formulations of pure di-acid salts of tetrandrine family members, especially d-tetrandrine di-hydrochloride, combined with a pharmaceutical diluent or carrier. |
| US09517233B2 |
Local cochlear application of statins for stimulating neurite regrowth in the cochlea
Statin compositions are disclosed for stimulating neurite growth from spiral ganglion neurons in the inner ear, as well as methods and kits for preventing damage to or treating damage of auditory neurons and/or hair cells of the cochlea following acoustic or toxic insult. An exemplary statin for these methods and kits includes Pitavastatin having the compound formula (VIII): |
| US09517229B2 |
Treatment of breast cancer
The disclosure describes the use of one or more compounds that fall within the scope of one or more of structural formulae I, II, III, IV, V, or VI for treating triple negative breast Compounds useful for treating breast cancer include those compounds of formulae I, II, III, IV, V, or VI that inhibit proliferation of breast cancer cells and/or lead to the death of breast cancer cells, especially triple negative breast cancer. |
| US09517227B2 |
Dihydropyrazoles
Novel dihydropyrazole derivatives of formula (I) wherein L, R, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, X1, X2, X3, X4, Y, m and n have the meaning according to the claims, are positive allosteric modulators of the FSH receptor, and can be employed, inter alia, for the treatment of fertility disorders. |
| US09517224B2 |
Methods of treating patients infected with HIV and HTLV
Disclosed is a method of activating protein kinase C theta (PKCθ) in an HIV or HTLV infected animal comprising administering to the animal an effective amount of a compound of formula (I): Formula (I), or an epimer thereof; wherein Ar and R1-R6 are described herein. Examples of diseases or conditions associated with PKCθ include HIV1 infection, AIDS, HTLV infection, and adult T cell leukemia/lymphoma. |
| US09517222B2 |
Method for the treatment of senile dementia of the Alzheimer's type
The present invention relates to the treatment of Senile Dementia of the Alzheimer's Type (SDAT) by administering to the patient and effective amount of a compound selected from the group consisting of: 1-alkyl, 2-acyl-glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P); 1-alkyl, 2-acyl-glycerol; and 1-alkyl, 2-acyl-glycerylphosphatidylethanolamine (CGPE) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. |
| US09517220B2 |
Bromfenac bioavailability
Formulations and methods that provided enhanced bromfenac penetration into ocular tissue when topically administered, compared to the currently available BROMDAY™ formulation and method when topically administered. The formulations and methods did so while retaining the patient convenience of a once-daily administration and advantageously lowered the bromfenac concentration dosed to the patient. |
| US09517219B2 |
Topical dapsone and dapsone/adapalene compositions and methods for use thereof
Dapsone and dapsone/adapalene compositions can be useful for treating a variety of dermatological conditions. The compositions of this disclosure include dapsone and/or adapalene in a polymeric viscosity builder. Subject compositions can be adjusted to optimize the dermal delivery profile of dapsone to effectively treat dermatological conditions and improve the efficiency of pharmaceutical products applied to the skin. Use of the polymeric viscosity builder provides compositions with increased concentrations of diethylene glycol monoethyl ether relative to compositions without the polymeric viscosity builder. |
| US09517214B2 |
Fat-based food products
The invention is in particular concerned with a food product comprising one or more fats or oils and a carotenoid compound. The products of the invention may be used in reducing elevated total cholesterol, triglycerides and inflammatory damage, as well as improving tissue microcirculation and tissue oxygenation. |
| US09517208B2 |
Abuse-deterrent dosage forms
Abuse-deterrent dosage forms (e.g., orally administered dosage forms, transdermal dosage forms, suppositories, etc.), processes for formulating pharmaceutical dosage forms comprising an active agent susceptible to abuse (e.g., an opioid agonist, a benzodiazepine, a stimulant) such that the resulting dosage forms are abuse-deterrent are described. Also described are methods of deterring abuse of pharmaceutical dosage forms. |
| US09517206B2 |
Pharmaceutical formulation containing gelling agent
Disclosed in certain embodiments is a controlled release oral dosage form comprising a therapeutically effective amount of a drug susceptible to abuse together with one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients; the dosage form further including a gelling agent in an effective amount to impart a viscosity unsuitable for administration selected from the group consisting of parenteral and nasal administration to a solubilized mixture formed when the dosage form is crushed and mixed with from about 0.5 to about 10 ml of an aqueous liquid; the dosage form providing a therapeutic effect for at least about 12 hours when orally administered to a human patient. |
| US09517205B2 |
Soluble needle arrays for delivery of influenza vaccines
Influenza vaccines are administered using solid biodegradable microneedles. The microneedles are fabricated from the influenza vaccine in combination with solid excipient(s) and, after penetrating the skin, they dissolve in situ and release the vaccine to the immune system. The influenza vaccine is (i) a purified influenza virus surface antigen vaccine, rather than a live vaccine or a whole-virus or split inactivated vaccine (ii) an influenza vaccine prepared from viruses grown in cell culture, not eggs, (iii) a monovalent influenza vaccine e.g. for immunizing against a pandemic strain, (iv) a bivalent vaccine, (v) a tetravalent or >4-valent vaccine, (vi) a mercury-free vaccine, or (vii) a gelatin-free vaccine. |
| US09517201B2 |
Nanocarrier and nanogel compositions
Novel classes of multi-arm polyalkylene oxide-based materials including PEG nanocarriers, nanogel particles, and aggregated nanogel particles are disclosed. These classes of compositions may be associated with therapeutic agents and targeting moieties, or visibility enhancing agents, and may have a modified surface structure. In some embodiments the PEG-based materials can be made to provide relatively high drug loads with improved solubility and targeted delivery. |
| US09517190B2 |
Coated titanium dioxide to reduce the whitening effect on skin
The present invention relates to coated titanium dioxide particles, wherein at least one coating layer comprises an ester made from a mixture of fatty alcohol and C6 to C12 aliphatic acids as coating material. |
| US09517189B2 |
Cosmetic composition comprising an oil, hydrophobic silica aerogel particles and a hydrocarbon-based resin
The present invention relates to a cosmetic composition for making up and/or caring for the skin and/or the lips, comprising, in a physiologically acceptable medium, at least one oil, which is preferably non-volatile, at least hydrophobic silica aerogel particles, at least one hydrocarbon-based resin having a number-average molecular weight of less than or equal to 10 000 g/mol, the said composition comprising less than 5% by weight of water relative to the total weight of the composition, and preferably being anhydrous. |
| US09517188B2 |
Water-based gel cosmetic compositions containing emulsifier
Disclosed are water-based cosmetic compositions comprising a synthetic non-associative thickening polymer, a synthetic associative thickening polymer, an emulsifier, a film forming polymer, and a liquid fatty substance. The ratio of the synthetic non-associative thickening polymer to the synthetic associative thickening polymer is greater than 1:1, or alternatively, said ratio is less than or equal to 1:1. |
| US09517182B2 |
Multi flow multi venting nipple
A multi flow multi venting nipple includes a teat having a flow aperture which allows for at least two different flow rates depending upon the operative radial orientation of the nipple. The nipple further includes a number of vent apertures, equal to the number of flow rates, formed by check valves extending through the nipple to reduce negative pressure during use. Each vent aperture is associated with a particular flow rate, and is radially oriented to be uppermost and vertically above the flow aperture during use at such flow rate. All vent apertures will be operable at once. The nipple further includes safety walls extending from the nipple and surrounding at least half the periphery of each check valve forming the vent apertures. The safety wall prevents unintentional and rough contact from damaging the check valves. |
| US09517181B2 |
Multipurpose bottle cap and methods of making and using same
A cap for a bottle includes a first portion, a second portion, and an end piece having a concave body and a hole. The second portion is configured to retain a first ingredient, and the bottle is configured to retain a second ingredient. The first portion may be threadingly secured to the second portion while the second portion plugs the bottle and the end piece is secured to the second portion. Unthreading of the first portion from the second portion causes the first ingredient to fall through the hole and mix with the second ingredient in the bottle. |
| US09517180B2 |
Apparatus and method for non-intravenously administering a medication
An apparatus for storing and dispensing a medication, including: a cartridge including a cavity for storing a first orally-administered or injectable medication for a patient; and a module, including a specially-programmed computer. The specially-programmed computer: attached to the cartridge, and arranged to: automatically generate or modify a medication regimen, including designation of a measure for the first orally-administered or injectable medication, for the patient by using information regarding a second medication, different from the first medication, prescribed for the patient, or real time physiological data for the patient; and transmit instructions to a medication device to extract the first orally-administered or injectable medication from the cartridge and non-intravenously dispense, into a container, an amount of the first orally-administered or injectable medication equal to the designated measure or the modified designated measure. |
| US09517176B2 |
Cross action chest compression apparatus for cardiac arrest
Manual CPR apparatus allowing the application of force at two points separated by a line making a nonperpendicular angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the patient. The line separating the two force points may also lie out of the plane formed by the device's belt which circumnavigates the patient's torso. These geometrical configurations allow the facile application of the CPR force to the device by one or more operators located along the side of the patient. The device may have the capability to limit the achieved circular chest compression to one of a plurality of magnitudes. The device may also provide signals to indicate the appropriate times for applying pressure and may incorporate electrocardiogram and defibrillation components. The device may contact the patient's chest with a suction cup or other adhering component to assist in the patient's chest expanding in the interval between compressive strokes. |
| US09517175B1 |
Tactile belt system for providing navigation guidance
The disclosure includes a system and method for providing navigation guidance. The system includes a tracking application and a user. The tracking application determines a location of a user, determines a position of at least one object in proximity to the user, determines a path for the user to avoid the at least one object, generates linear and angular velocities that correspond to the path and generates directions that correspond to the linear and angular velocities. The user can receive the directions as audio instructions or via a tactile belt with motors that vibrate to convey the directions. |
| US09517174B2 |
Biomechanically derived crutch
A crutch having a first side direction, a second side direction opposite the first side direction, a third side direction perpendicular to the first side direction and a fourth side direction opposite the third side direction, the crutch including an elongate leg having a top end, a top portion, a middle portion, a bottom portion, and a bottom end, wherein the elongate leg extends from a saddle to a foot and has a handle disposed on the middle portion, wherein the saddle extends in an elongate shape between the first side direction and the second side direction, wherein the handle extends in an elongate shape between the first side direction and the second side direction, wherein the elongate leg middle portion is to the third side direction of an axis extending between the leg and the foot, wherein the elongate leg middle portion is to the first side direction of an axis extending between the top end of the elongate leg and the bottom end of the elongate leg; and wherein the handle is cantilevered and has a fixed end and a free end. |
| US09517173B1 |
Stretching belt for stretching of the spine
Some embodiments of the present disclosure include a stretching device for stretching and aligning a user's back. The stretching device may include a belt configured to wrap around the user's back and under the user's armpits and a first ring attached to a first end of the belt and a second ring attached to a second end of the belt, wherein the first ring and the second ring may engage with a hook such that the device may hang from a support system, using gravity to stretch and align the user's back. |
| US09517171B2 |
Bed, preferably hospital or care bed
Bed, comprising a lower frame (1) and an upper frame (2) with a supporting surface for a mattress, and where the upper frame (2) is connected to the lower frame (1) so that the upper frame can be raised and lowered in proportion to the lower frame by means of one or more adjusting means (5, 6) driven by an electric motor. In order to prevent squeezing between the upper and lower frame when the upper frame is lowered, the bed is provided with anti squeezing means. These comprise a light source and a receiver positioned in a corner of the lower frame. The light source sends a light beam which follows the lower frame all the way around and runs just above the top side of the lower frame. When the light beam is interrupted the control unit reacts by cutting off the current for the motors. |
| US09517168B2 |
Method of constructing absorbent articles comprising graphics
An absorbent article may comprise a first zone comprising graphics and a second zone comprising graphics, wherein the first and second zones have different elastic properties. Further, the absorbent article may comprise a first absorbent article component and a second absorbent article component having substantially different elastic properties, wherein the first absorbent article component comprises an elastomer. Additionally, the absorbent article may comprise a third absorbent article component overlapping the first and second absorbent article components, wherein the third absorbent article component comprises graphics on at least the portions which overlap the first and second absorbent article components. |
| US09517166B2 |
Device and method for controlling nasal exudation
An inflatable device for insertion into a user's nose for controlling nasal exudation has an elongated shaft including at least one lumen for accommodating a fluid (15); an inflatable balloon (25) connected to the shaft, the balloon (25) being in fluid connection to the lumen; and an absorber (19, 33) for absorbing nasal exudates, the absorber (19, 33) being disposed at an outer circumference of the shaft and/or at a distal tip portion (9) of the device. Another inflatable device for insertion into a user's nose for controlling nasal exudation has an elongated shaft including at least one lumen for accommodating a fluid (15); and an inflatable balloon (25) connected to the shaft, the balloon (25) being in fluid connection to the lumen; the balloon (25) containing a cooling agent (29), wherein the cooling agent (29) is configured to cool the balloon (25) when coming into contact with the fluid (15). |
| US09517158B2 |
Adaptive floating flange for ostomy appliance
An adaptive ostomy appliance includes a collection pouch, a first coupling ring attached to the collection pouch, and a faceplate having a second coupling ring assembly connected to it by a thermoplastic web. The coupling rings couple the faceplate to the pouch. A securing member releaseably, operably couples the second coupling ring with the front surface of the faceplate. |
| US09517157B2 |
Ostomy appliance
An ostomy appliance comprising an adaptor having a distal end adapted to be coupled to an ostomy wafer and a proximal end adapted to be coupled to a cap, said distal end having an opening in fluid communication with an opening in said proximal end. |
| US09517154B2 |
Inflatable foot cushion
Medical advantages are provided by the novel improvements made to the inflatable foot cushion of the present invention to the inflatable foot cushion of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/432,068 and the Inflatable Foot Cushion of U.S. Pat. No. 5,328,445, including better protection of a patient's Achilles' tendon areas; better unloading of the pressures on the patient's heels due to the increased elevation of the patient's heels above substrates; and the prevention of left and right lateral rotation of the ankles of patients wearing the novel inflatable foot cushion of the present invention by its two novel lateral cushions formed by expanding the main chamber of the improved inflatable foot cushion of the present invention there between, which novel lateral cushions cradle and stabilize the improved inflatable chamber of the present invention when it is pivoted under the improved inflatable foot cushion of the present invention. |
| US09517153B2 |
Bypass device, support frame for bypass device, and method
A liner support frame is configured to be positioned in a gastrointestinal tract of a human and to support a liner which inhibits nutrient absorption and anchor the liner in place in the gastrointestinal tract, the liner support frame includes a plurality of frame members connected to one another so that the liner support frame possesses a plurality of openings. The liner support frame includes a plurality of frame portions arranged axially and possessing different tapers. |
| US09517150B2 |
Time-dependent polymer scaffolds
A medical device includes a polymer scaffold crimped to a catheter having an expansion balloon. The scaffold has a structure that produces a low late lumen loss when implanted within a peripheral vessel and also exhibits a high axial fatigue life. In a preferred embodiment the scaffold forms ring structures interconnected by links, where a ring has 12 crowns and at most two links connecting adjacent rings. |
| US09517146B2 |
Methods and apparatus for stenting comprising enhanced embolic protection coupled with improved protections against restenosis and thrombus formation
Apparatus and methods for stenting are provided comprising a stent attached to a porous biocompatible material that is permeable to endothelial cell ingrowth, but impermeable to release of emboli of predetermined size. Preferred stent designs are provided, as well as preferred manufacturing techniques. Apparatus and methods are also provided for use at a vessel branching. Moreover, embodiments of the present invention may comprise a coating configured for localized delivery of therapeutic agents. Embodiments of the present invention are expected to provide enhanced embolic protection, improved force distribution, and improved recrossability, while reducing a risk of restenosis and thrombus formation. |
| US09517139B2 |
Acromion spacer
A prosthesis assembly for use with a scapula in one embodiment includes an acromion spacer unit, a first articulation surface on an inferior surface of the acromion spacer unit, a bone contacting surface on a superior surface of the acromion spacer unit, and a bone mounting member extending sideways from the acromion spacer unit and oriented such that when the acromion spacer unit is mounted on a scapula, the acromion spacer unit is positioned at a height above the height of a midpoint of a glenoid fossa of the scapula. |
| US09517134B2 |
Implant device and method for manufacture
Disclosed are systems, devices and methods for optimizing the manufacture and/or production of patient-specific orthopedic implants. The methods include obtaining image data of a patient, selecting a blank implant to be optimized for the patient, and modifying the blank implant utilizing techniques disclosed herein to alter specific features of the implant to conform to the patient's anatomy. |
| US09517127B2 |
Prosthetic capsular devices, systems, and methods
A prosthetic capsular device configured to be inserted in an eye includes a housing structure and a ring structure. The housing structure includes a first side, a second side opposite the first side, a third side, a fourth side opposite the third side, a posterior side including a refractive surface, an anterior side opposite the posterior side, and a longitudinal axis. The first side, the second side, the third side, the fourth side, the posterior side, and the anterior side at least partially define a cavity configured to contain an intraocular device (e.g., an IOL). The anterior side includes an opening. The ring structure includes a ring structure portion extending radially outward from proximate one of an end of the first side and an end of the second side. |
| US09517126B2 |
Ophthalmologic implant
The invention relates to an ophthalmologic implant, in particular an intraocular lens. The implant includes at least one marker produced with at least one dye which is a fluorescent dye having a maximum emission outside of the light spectrum visible to humans or an absorbing dye having a maximum absorption outside the light spectrum visible to humans. The said fluorescent or absorbing dye does not substantially influence light transmission of the ophthalmologic implant within the visual spectral range. The invention further relates to a microscopy system and an optical detection process for detecting and/or identifying the disclosed ophthalmologic implant. |
| US09517125B2 |
Attachment device to attach tissue graft
A tissue graft attachment device includes a platform member including a first edge and a second edge connected to the first edge by a top side and a substantially curved bottom side. The platform member defines a slot extending between the first edge and the second edge, a first opening between the slot and the first edge, and a second opening between the slot and the second edge. The tissue graft attachment device includes a first filament passing through the first opening, a second filament passing through the second opening, and a graft connecting element passing through the slot to form a loop. |
| US09517123B2 |
Endovascular prosthesis and a method of connecting a structural component and a woven graft material
An endovascular prosthesis that includes a stent and a woven graft material. The stent is connected to the graft material by direct attachment of the stent to the graft material at thermoplastically fused regions of the graft material. |
| US09517118B1 |
Orthodontic flosser
An orthodontic flosser comprising an elongated handle and a head coupled to the handle is disclosed. A projection extend for suspending floss is sized for insertion of floss between a wire affixed to a tooth and the tooth. A source spool of fresh floss is configured to feed fresh floss incrementally into suspension from the projection while a take-up bobbin is configured for taking up used floss and applying tension to the suspended floss. A button may be used for releasing the source spool to rotate, and for holding the source spool against rotation. The source spool and take-up bobbin may be disposed in separated chambers to reduce cross contamination. A retie flange in the take-up bobbin and a retie slot in a take-up chamber are configured for retiying broken floss around a spindle of the take-up bobbin. |
| US09517113B2 |
Oral appliance, system and method for correcting class III problems of mandibular prognathism
An oral appliance, a system and a method for correcting malocclusions may cause teeth and/or jaws of the patient to move into a corrected position. An upper body and a lower body of the appliance may be connected by a hinge. Lingual protrusions may extend rearward from the anterior portion of the upper body and contact the maxilla of the patient when the appliance is worn. A protrusion may extend from the anterior portion of the lower body forward relative to the mouth and contact the lips and exert a rearward force against the lower teeth. |
| US09517111B2 |
Methods and systems for employing artificial intelligence in automated orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning
A method for treating an orthodontic condition can include receiving patient data, such as through a website, accessing a database having information derived from patient treatments, generating a model of an orthodontic condition defining one or more anatomic features of a set of teeth, identifying a diagnosis of an orthodontic condition and identifying a treatment regimen for the diagnosis. A method can include tagging an anatomic feature with an electronic identifier and automatically generating a tooth setup. A system can include a server and a database, which can include information relating to patient treatments, and a website for receiving patient data. A system can include an electronic model representing anatomic features of a patient's teeth and an application adapted to identify a diagnosis and a treatment regimen for an orthodontic condition, which can include executing artificial intelligence and/or other algorithms. |
| US09517105B2 |
Movable holder for medical instruments and associated methods
A movable instrument holding apparatus and method of retaining a medical instrument with a movable instrument holding apparatus are disclosed. The movable instrument holding apparatus includes a housing structure retaining a gripping structure. A rail is connected to the housing structure. A depressible arm is connected to the rail, the depressible arm having a first quantity of ratchet teeth, wherein the first quantity of ratchet teeth is movable with the depressible arm. A track is sized to receive the rail, wherein the track has a second quantity of ratchet teeth, and wherein the first quantity of ratchet teeth are engagable with the second quantity of ratchet teeth when the rail is positioned at least partially within the track. |
| US09517104B2 |
Electrosurgical medical system and method
A medical device system and method provide an RF electrosurgical generator coupled to an electrosurgical electrode via a patient box disposed in close proximity to the patient. An RF signal is delivered from the generator to the patient box where signal power is increased and the RF signal delivered to the electrosurgical electrode. The patient box is coupled to the electrosurgical electrode by a short cable capable of carrying an HV, high frequency 5 MHz signal without leakage. An electrical characteristic associated with the electrosurgical electrode is monitored and a desired RF power output and duty cycle maintained by adjusting DC input voltage applied to an RF amplifier, responsive to the monitoring. The system determines when the electrosurgical cutting electrode has started cutting and switches from a start mode to a run mode having a different RF duty cycle and a reduced RF power output controlled by a servo system. |
| US09517100B2 |
Cryogenic treatment methods
Methods and apparatus for the treatment of a body cavity or lumen are described where a heated fluid and/or gas may be introduced through a catheter and into treatment area within the body contained between one or more inflatable/expandable members. The catheter may also have optional pressure and temperature sensing elements which may allow for control of the pressure and temperature within the treatment zone and also prevent the pressure from exceeding a pressure of the inflatable/expandable members to thereby contain the treatment area between these inflatable/expandable members. Optionally, a chilled, room temperature, or warmed fluid such as water may then be used to rapidly terminate the treatment session. |
| US09517094B1 |
Intramedullary fixation apparatus for use in hip and femur fracture surgery
An orthopedic intramedullary fixation apparatus and system for use in hip and femur fracture surgery comprises an intramedullary nail, a dynamic lag screw structure comprising a longitudinal sheath and a lag screw, and securing means to fix the intramedullary nail relative to a femur. A dynamic channel created by the lag screw structure allows the lag screw to adjust dynamically, and thereby may permit further compression of the fractured bone to an optimal level as a patient begins to bear weight on it following surgery. Surgical fixation may be expedited, as a favorable point of access for a lag screw may be determined readily, particularly with obese patients in whom access to the trochanter may be problematic. Complications during surgery, such as accidental fracturing of the femoral neck and head and over-penetration of the lag screw may be avoided. |
| US09517091B2 |
Locking mechanism
A spinal implant includes a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism includes an inner surface defining a tapered passageway. A tapered collet is configured for disposal in the tapered passageway. The tapered collet has an inner surface defining a passageway configured for disposal of a longitudinal member. The tapered collet is configured to translate within the tapered passageway between a non-locking orientation in which the longitudinal member is moveable relative to the tapered collet and a locking orientation in which the longitudinal member is fixed relative to the tapered collet. |
| US09517090B2 |
Polyaxial cross connector
A device and method for coupling first and second elongate spinal fixation elements. The device includes first and second connector members, for receiving first and second elongate spinal fixation elements respectively. One or both connector members may include an engagement portion configured and dimensioned to provisionally receive an elongate fixation element with an interference fit. First and second connector members are coupled to a translation member, the translation member operatively associated with at least one connector member to provide for polyaxial movement. At least one locking member is provided to secure a received elongate spinal fixation element in the engagement portion and lock polyaxial movement of the at least one connector member. The translation member may have first and second portions which move relative to each other with translation movement, and a third locking member to lock the translation movement. |
| US09517089B1 |
Bone anchor with offset rod connector
This disclosure describes example an surgical fixation anchor and methods for implanting the surgical fixation anchor on the spine as part of a spinal fixation construct. The surgical fixation anchor can be coupled to a spinal rod. The coupling between the spinal rod and the anchor can be offset from an axis of the anchor. The position and orientation of the coupling to the spinal rod can also be transnationally and rotationally adjusted relative to the anchor to facilitate the coupling and/or to optimize space usage adjacent to the fixation construct. |
| US09517085B2 |
Skin treatment system and method of use
A device, a system employing the device, and method of performing skin treatment are provided for skin treatment. The device includes a vacuum head base defining a chamber therein and having a substantially smooth treatment tip attached and extending from an end thereof or integral therewith. The tip has at least one central opening that is open to the chamber, and is adapted to contact the skin and traverse the skin in a substantially nonabrasive manner. A vacuum access opening is provided through a side wall of the vacuum head base and adapted to connect with a source of vacuum. A tissue stop member is located within the chamber. It may have an abrasive surface for exfoliating skin cells, or a smooth surface for traversing the skin without substantial abrasion. |
| US09517084B2 |
Level detection of follicle fluid in a test tube
The present disclosure discloses an apparatus and a method for detecting level of the follicle fluid falling into a test tube during an aspiration process. The apparatus may be configured for detecting the level of the follicle fluid falling into the test tube. Upon detecting that the level reaches the pre-defined threshold level in the test tube, the apparatus may be further configured to notify a doctor about the level of the follicle fluid into the test tube via an audio alarm or visually through the ultrasound monitor. The notification enables the doctor to concentrate on the aspiration process and further facilitates to prevent spilling of the follicle fluid from the test tube, once the follicle fluid reaches the pre-defined threshold level of the test tube. |
| US09517081B2 |
Tool for a medical instrument
A tool for a medical instrument includes an effecting device, a transmission rod, of which the distal end is coupled to the effecting device, for transferring at least either a force or a torque to the effecting device, and a cutting device, which, to cut tissue, is movable in a channel in the transmission rod and in the effecting device. To cut tissue, the cutting device is movable in a channel in the transmission rod and in the effecting device. |
| US09517080B2 |
Calculus retrieving/removing device and method
A method of removing/retrieving calculus in a renal pelvis includes moving a renal cover part along a ureter toward the renal pelvis, introducing the renal cover part into the renal pelvis, positioning the renal cover part in the renal pelvis so that the renal cover part covers one part of the renal pelvis, while an other part of the renal pelvis is not covered by the renal cover part, introducing fluid into the other part of the renal pelvis, while the one part of the renal pelvis is covered by the renal cover part, to cause the calculus in the other part of the renal pelvis to be washed-out of the renal pelvis, and moving the renal cover part out of the renal pelvis and into the ureter. |
| US09517071B2 |
Tissue ligating device
A tissue ligating device for ligating a tissue includes a suture having an elastic restoring force, and a hook-shaped member including a groove portion, connected to a first end of the suture, and disposed in a direction along a derivation direction of the suture and in a direction opposite to the derivation direction of the suture with respect to the first end of the suture. |
| US09517064B2 |
Clips for vascular anastomosis and method of use
Disclosed is a surgical clip for end-to-end or end-to-side vascular anastomosis and for suturing blood conduits, which comprises a V-shaped base from which at least two branches project in a direction opposed to an apex of the V-shaped base. The branches each have a hook pointing toward the base, the branches are parallel to one another before plastic deformation and each branch forms with the corresponding hook a re-entrant corner with an apex angle of between 30° and 80°. The clip has three zones of preferential deformation, at an the apex of the V-shaped base and at connecting zones between the base and the branches. After plastic deformation, the two branches remain substantially parallel. The deformation of the clip has been concentrated on the apex of the base, the angle of which has narrowed under the stress of the gripper, and on the apices, which have opened. |
| US09517046B2 |
Velocity estimation for vector flow imaging (VFI) in ultrasound
An ultrasound imaging system includes a transducer array, with an array of transducer elements that transmits an ultrasound signal and receives a set of echoes generated in response to the ultrasound signal traversing a flowing structure. The ultrasound imaging system further includes a beamformer that beamforms the set of echoes, generating a beamformed signal. The ultrasound imaging system further includes a pre-processor that performs basebanding, averaging and decimation of the beamformed signal and determines an autocorrelation of the basebanded, averaged and decimated beamformed signal. The ultrasound imaging system further includes a velocity processor that generates an axial velocity component signal and a lateral velocity component signal based on the autocorrelation. The axial and lateral velocity components indicate a direction and a speed of the flowing structure in the field of view. |
| US09517038B2 |
Apparatus and method for breast immobilization
This application discusses, among other things, curved plates for immobilizing a breast of a subject for medical imaging. In an example, an immobilization assembly Can include a curved compression plate assembly, a curved support plate assembly, an assembly coupling configured to position a first concave major surface of the curved compression plate assembly opposite a second concave major surface of the curved support plate assembly, wherein a cross section view through the curved compression assembly and the curved support plate assembly includes two portions of a single ellipse separated by a distance, and wherein the curved compression plate assembly and the curved support plate assembly are configured to immobilize the biological specimen between the first concave major surface and the second concave major surface. |
| US09517029B2 |
Image processing device, image processing method, image processing system, program, and recording medium
Provided is an image processing device including a specifying unit configured to specify a part of a living body within a first image on the basis of a characteristic amount of the first image capturing skin of the living body, and a setting unit configured to set a capturing condition under which a second image indicating a state of the skin of the part is captured in response to the specified part. |
| US09517026B2 |
Biological fluid collection device and biological fluid separation and testing system
A biological fluid collection device that is adapted to receive a blood sample having a cellular portion and a plasma portion is disclosed. After collecting the blood sample, the biological fluid collection device is able to transfer the blood sample to a point-of-care testing device or a biological fluid separation and testing device. After transferring the blood sample, the biological fluid separation and testing device is able to separate the plasma portion from the cellular portion and analyze the blood sample and obtain test results. |
| US09517025B2 |
Analyte sensor with increased reference capacity
Systems and methods of use for continuous analyte measurement of a host's vascular system are provided. In some embodiments, a continuous glucose measurement system includes an electrochemical sensor incorporating a silver/silver chloride reference electrode, wherein a capacity of the reference electrode is controlled. |
| US09517023B2 |
Method and system for directing a localized biological response to an implant
The invention provides methods for directing a localized biological response of a mammalian body to an implant disposed within the body. In one embodiment, a delivery system is positioned outside the body and adjacent to the implant within the body. The delivery system comprises a first tissue response modifier effective for directing a localized biological response of the body to the implant. The tissue response modifier is nonsurgically delivered from the delivery system into the body in a quantity effective to direct the localized biological response of the body to the implant. The invention also provides an implant system for long-term use comprising an implant and nonsurgical means for delivering a tissue response modifier through the epidermis of the body, the tissue response modifier effective for directing a localized biological response of the body to the implant. |
| US09517019B2 |
Physiology measurement device and system, and operating method of wireless single chip
There is provided a physiological measurement device including a light source, an image sensor and a processor. The light source illuminates a skin surface with a first brightness value and a second brightness value. The image sensor receives scattered light from tissues below the skin surface, and outputs a first image frame corresponding to the first brightness value and a second image frame corresponding to the second brightness value. The processor calculates an intensity comparison index between the first image frame and the second image frame, calculates perfusion data according to the first image frame and/or the second image frame, and identifies a contact status according to the intensity comparison index. |
| US09517013B2 |
Image processing apparatus, microscope system, endoscope system, and image processing method
An image processing apparatus includes: an image acquiring unit configured to acquire image information representing an image acquired by irradiating a gland duct with excitation light and observing fluorescence generated in the gland duct; a fluorescence intensity computation unit configured to compute a value corresponding to intensity of the fluorescence as fluorescence intensity based on the image information; and an image determination unit configured to determine whether or not an endocrine cell exists in the gland duct based on the fluorescence intensity computed by the fluorescence intensity computation unit, and to determine abnormality of the gland duct based on a determination result of the endocrine cell. |
| US09517011B2 |
Information processing apparatus, portable communication terminal, and control methods and control programs thereof
An information processing apparatus includes an acquisition unit that, when a medical measurement device is connected to a portable communication terminal, acquires specifying information for specifying the medical measurement device via the portable communication terminal, a first receiver that receives, via the portable communication terminal, measurement result information of a measurement target person measured by the medical measurement device by executing a driver program corresponding to the specifying information, a second receiver that receives, from the portable communication terminal, measurement target person information for specifying the measurement target person measured by the medical measurement device, an accumulator that accumulates the measurement target person information and the measurement result information in association with each other, and a transmitter that transmits accumulated information to one of the portable communication terminal and a medical care worker communication terminal. |
| US09517009B2 |
Structured illumination ophthalmoscope
A method for non-invasive observations of a fundus using an ophthalmoscope is provided. The method includes illuminating a retinal region of an eye by projecting an illumination pattern of illumination light onto the retinal region, at least one of detecting a portion of fluorescent light emitted from the retinal region and detecting a portion of illumination light reflected from the retinal region, thereby capturing a series of images of the retinal region at a plurality of different relative positions of the retinal region with respect to the illumination pattern projected onto the retinal region, wherein between the capturing of at least two images of the series the relative position of the retinal region with respect to the illumination pattern projected onto the retinal region is shifted in a non-controlled manner, and processing the captured images to extract a sub-resolution image of the retinal region. |
| US09517008B1 |
System and method for testing the vision of a subject
A system for testing the vision of a subject incorporating eye movement tracking is disclosed herein. The system includes a head motion sensing device configured to measure a velocity or speed of a head of a subject, an eye movement tracking device configured to measure an eye movement of the subject, a visual display device configured to display one or more visual objects so that the one or more visual objects are visible to the subject; and a data processing device operatively coupled to the head motion sensing device, the eye movement tracking device, and the visual display device, the data processing device being specially programmed to carry out the steps of the vision tests. A method for the testing the vision of a subject incorporating eye movement tracking is also disclosed herein. |
| US09517006B2 |
Systems and methods for obtaining low-angle circumferential optical access to the eye
A system for obtaining low-angle circumferential optical access to an eye of a subject. The system includes a light source to generate a beam of light; a beam steering mechanism to steer the beam of light a focusing lens to focus the beam of light; and a contact lens to direct the beam of light into the eye of the subject, the contact lens including a tapered reflective surface to direct the beam of light into the eye of the subject. |
| US09517003B2 |
Insertable lighting device
The present invention relates to an insertable lighting device that includes an optical fiber assembly 40 that resides slidably within the elongated interior cavity 58 of an introducer sheath 10 that includes an incision blade 12 on the first (or forward) end 49 thereof, which can be inserted through a cavity wall 32 and into an internal cavity 97. The introducer sheath 10 is also slidably positionable over and along the optical fiber assembly 40. The insertable lighting device also includes a light source assembly 22 which includes a light source 20 that introduces light into the optical fiber 18 of the optical fiber assembly 40. The first optical fiber assembly end 43 is adapted to emit light therefrom. The present invention also relates to a method of illuminating an internal cavity with the insertable lighting device. |
| US09516997B2 |
Spectrally-encoded endoscopy techniques, apparatus and methods
Exemplary apparatus for obtaining information for a structure can be provided. For example, the exemplary apparatus can include at least one first optical fiber arrangement which is configured to transceive at least one first electro-magnetic radiation, and can include at least one fiber. The exemplary apparatus can also include at least one second focusing arrangement in optical communication with the optical fiber arrangement. The second arrangement can be configured to focus and provide there through the first electro-magnetic radiation to generate the focused electro-magnetic radiation. Further, the exemplary apparatus can include at least at least one dispersive third arrangement which can receive a particular radiation (e.g., the first electro-magnetic radiation(s) and/or the focused electro-magnetic radiation), and forward a dispersed radiation thereof to at least one section of the structure. |
| US09516994B2 |
Balloon detachment tool
Included are a cylindrical holding portion, a groove engageable with a balloon band removed from a balloon engagement groove provided in an outer periphery of an ultrasound transducer unit, a cut portion provided in the holding portion, the cut portion allowing the holding portion to radially expand in a radial direction, and an abutment portion provided on a second opening side relative to the groove on an inner peripheral face of the holding portion. |
| US09516993B2 |
Endoscope system
An endoscope system includes an endoscope including an image pickup section that picks up an image of a subject lumen organ, a recording section that records three-dimensional image information of a lumen organ acquired from a medical diagnosis apparatus, a position estimating section that estimates a distal end position of the endoscope, a lumen-diameter acquiring section that acquires a lumen diameter of the organ in the estimated position of the distal end, a condition determining section that determines whether the acquired lumen diameter is smaller than the reference lumen diameter, an image-change-amount detecting section that detects a change amount of a predetermined parameter in an endoscopic image picked up by the image pickup section, a virtual-endoscopic-image generating section that generates a virtual endoscopic image from any visual point position, and an information recording section that records a position of a distal end of an insertion section and the virtual endoscopic image. |
| US09516992B2 |
Multipurpose household appliance for complete cleaning and organizing to help improve the hygiene of baby bottles and also more distinct washable items used for babies and toddlers
A household appliance (11) designed to assist parents in the whole process of cleaning, improving the hygiene, storing, and organizing not only feeding bottles, but more extensively a much more diverse range of washable products constantly used for babies and toddlers.The present invention presents one or more compartments (1, 3 and 10) and accessories that will support in a much better way all steps that this type of housework involves.Its configuration, components, characteristics and method of use will provide higher support providing the basis for a much safer, faster, and more efficient way to take care of the cleaning, and organization of many different baby and young children items simultaneously. |
| US09516985B2 |
Floor washing-drying machine with a scraping device
A washing-drying machine including a scraping device including a reversible fastening system of scraping blades. The reversible fastening system makes it possible to apply the scraping blades to the scraping device in a simple and safe way and as simply to remove them to clean them or replace them when worn out through a flexible fastening mechanism including holes for engaging with support elements provided on the scraping device, and including at least an elastic end portion with a slot for engaging with the undercut of a corresponding locking element, formed in the proximity of end portions of the support. |
| US09516984B2 |
Positioning system of sweeper and positioning method of the positioning system
A positioning system comprises a sweeper and a positioning device arranged on a ceiling. The sweeper has a lighting component for emitting light. The positioning device at least has a height measuring unit and a plurality of light-sensitive units. The positioning device measures a vertical distance between the positioning device and a floor through the height measuring unit. The positioning device receives the light emitted from the emitting light of the sweeper through the light-sensitive units, and calculates an oblique distance between the positioning device and the sweeper based on different strengths of the light respectively received from each of the plurality of light-sensitive units. Therefore, the positioning device can calculates a parallel distance between the positioning device and the sweeper based on the vertical distance and the oblique distance, and further determines a related position of the sweeper opposite to the positioning device. |
| US09516983B2 |
Water focusing cleaning head
A rug cleaning head for a traditional rug cleaning application machine is improved. The spray apparatus remains prior art. The vacuum components on the underside of the cleaning head are improved with a focusing diverter arm or a pair of arms forming a “V”. The arm or arms direct the wash water into a reduced size (about a one inch slot) vacuum inlet. The result is much more wash water is collected from the rug due to the combination of a higher speed (reduced size) vacuum inlet stream and the focusing diverter's urging all the wash water into the smaller vacuum inlet. An alternate embodiment uses separate spray/vacuum inlet assemblies on a star shaped hub. |
| US09516978B2 |
Web substrate having optimized emboss design
A fibrous structure having a density (measured at 95 g/in2) of less than about 0.60 g/cm3 and at least one embossed ply having a surface thereof is disclosed. The surface has a surface area comprising from about 10.0 percent to about 20.0 percent line embossments. Also, a fibrous structure having at least two plies is disclosed. One of the two plies has a density (measured at 95 g/in2) of less than about 0.60 g/cm3 and at least one embossed ply having a surface thereof. The surface has a surface area comprising from about 10.0 percent to about 20.0 percent line embossments. |
| US09516975B2 |
Condiment mill
The present invention relates to a condiment mill capable of separately accommodating and grinding two condiments depending on the axial position of the means for driving the grinding mechanisms of the two condiments and independent of the direction of the rotation of the cover part. The condiment mill of the present invention also comprises an indicator mechanism to clearly indicate which one of the condiments is being ground. |
| US09516974B2 |
Container for liquids and set for making the same
Components are disclosed as part of a set which may be used to form containers. Components of the set may be interchangeably substituted for one another so that various different possible containers may be made from a set. A set may include an outer vessel having a first cavity, an inner vessel receivable in the first cavity and having a second cavity, a lid assembly removably attachable to the outer vessel, an accessory, a releasable attachment mechanism to removably attach the accessory to the lid assembly so the accessory is received in the first cavity when the lid assembly is attached to the outer vessel, and at least one variant component interchangeable with one of the inner vessel, the lid assembly and the accessory. |
| US09516973B2 |
Instant self-heating apparatus with metered dispensing
Instant self-heating containers include a combinable reactant and activator used to generate an exothermic reaction for heating contents of the container. One instant self-heating container includes a target container, a pierceable activator container and a reaction chamber. Piercing the activator container causes activator to combine with the reactant and cause an exothermic reaction that heats the target container. The container may be used as depilatory wax dispenser. Another instant self-heating container includes an outer housing containing a contents pouch and a reactant, and capped by a lid having an activator chamber. Rupturing the activator chamber allows activator to combine with the reactant in an exothermic reaction to heat the contents pouch. Another instant self-heating container includes a flexible outer tube containing contents to be heated, a flexible reaction vessel, and a frangible activator vessel. Bending the outer tube causes the activator vessel to rupture and cause an exothermic reaction. |
| US09516972B2 |
Electronically controlled nutritional fluid warmer
A system and method are provided for warming a nutritional substance (i.e. mother's milk or formulated liquids) for ingestion by a neonate. Structurally, the system includes a warmer for holding a container of the nutritional substance as it is simultaneously vibrated and warmed in preparation for the neonate, and it includes a controller which determines how the system will be operated. For an operation of the present invention, a user provides input to the system controller to establish a mode of operation (e.g. warming; warming-frozen; or thawing). The user will also input a predetermined protocol to the controller. During the operation, a heat sensor monitors temperatures of the nutritional substance which are provided as feedback input to the controller for operating the warmer in accordance with the protocol. |
| US09516968B2 |
Water heater
The present invention provides a water heater capable of heating fluid to boiling point, wherein said heater includes a heating element, a water level gauge, a temperature measure, and a transceiver; wherein control of at least the element is provided by a mobile communication device communicating with the transceiver. |
| US09516966B2 |
Sound insulating curtain
A sound-insulating curtain includes a sound-absorbing core formed by laminating porous sheets and films, is covered by covers, and sewn in an integrated manner. Even after being integrally laminated, adjacently laminated layers are not excessively restrained in places other than sewn areas, and therefore displacement and deformation between layers caused by sound pressure can be tolerated. Sound absorption effects are appropriately produced by each layer, which tolerates such displacement and deformation, while reliably maintaining integrity during handling. Thus, the entire curtain maintains the ability to absorb sounds, efficiently attenuates noise that attempts to pass through the curtain, and suppresses the transmission of noise, thereby enabling noise to be reliably prevented from passing through the curtain. |
| US09516960B2 |
Orientation dependent illumination device for a dispensing container
A dispensing container is equipped with a battery powered orientation dependent illumination device. |
| US09516950B1 |
Electrically integrated salon styling chair with ergonomic equipment caddy
A salon chair with a tool caddy and an integral electrical supply. A salon chair that includes an integrated tool work station with the capacity to hold a hair dryer, curling irons, clippers and the like at the rear of the chair. The chair is powered by an integrated electrical power source inside the chairs' tool compartment and power is supplied through to the base of the chair. The power source may be connected to an outlet under the chair or concealed under a power extension with cord cover (preventing trips and falls), or may be otherwise coupled to utility power. |
| US09516939B2 |
Cosmetic applicator
A cosmetic applicator is provided. The cosmetic applicator includes a flexible application member which is manufactured independently in a first shape. The cosmetic applicator includes a stem which is a cylindrical hollow body configured to receive the application member. The application member is configured to attain a second shape when constrained within the stem. The application member includes an elongated base member and an applicator head attached to a first side of the base member. |
| US09516937B2 |
Folio case for a portable electronic device with inlaid fabric
A case for enclosing a personal electronic device with a front surface is described. The case comprises a front with an inside surface, an outside surface, and at least one raised front edge surface; a back with an inside surface to mount the personal electronic device, an outside surface, and at least one raised rear edge surface a surface cover; wherein the front inside surface. The front outside surface and the back outside surface are overlaid with the surface cover. The surface cover abuts the at least one raised front edge surface or the at least one raised rear edge surface. |
| US09516927B2 |
Hinged slider for a closure assembly
A hinged slider for a closure assembly of a bag. The hinged slider includes a top wall, a pair of legs that extends vertically from the top wall, and a pair of wings hingedly attached to the pair of legs. In one embodiment, the pair of wings hinges upwardly in order to install the slider onto the closure assembly. In another embodiment, the pair of wings hinges downwardly in order to install the slider onto the closure assembly. A storage bag is also provided, in which the storage bag includes at least one zipper profile and a hinged slider in a straddling relation with the zipper profile. |
| US09516925B1 |
End guide for cord attachment device
An end guide for a cord attachment device includes a cloth. The cloth is configured to fold over, unto, and overlap itself. The cloth has three portions. The first and second portions are longer than a third portion. The cloth is folded axially about a central longitudinal axis. The central longitudinal axis spans from the proximal end to the distal end of the cloth. The folding causes the first and second portions to overlap. A plurality of flutes are configured in the cloth by a plurality of stitch lines running parallel to each other and extending through first and second sides (the front and back) of the cloth and extending through the overlap of the first and second portions. At least one of the plurality of stitch lines are located between each of the flutes. The flutes span to both the proximal and distal ends of the cloth. First and second portions are folded outwardly away from the plurality of flutes at both the proximal and distal ends and then stitched to the cloth so as to create end channels for the routing of a cover cord (when a cover is used) or a keeper cord. The stitching is perpendicular to the plurality of stitch lines. |
| US09516923B2 |
Coupling members for closure devices and systems
According to one embodiment, a coupling component includes a female component and a male component. The female component includes a main body portion and a coupling aperture. Similarly, the male component includes a main body portion and a coupling member. The coupling member that is mateable with the coupling aperture of the female component to couple the male and female components together. The main body portion of the male component includes a top surface and a relatively planar bottom surface. The coupling member includes a relatively planar top surface and a bottom surface. The relatively planar top surface of the coupling member is offset from the relatively planar bottom surface of the male component. The male and female components are non-releasable from a coupled engagement while under tension via a tension member. |
| US09516922B1 |
Fabric gathering device
A fabric gathering device including a clasp having a front half hingedly attached to a back half, a plurality of rounded ridges continuously disposed on a front surface of the back half of the clasp, an aperture disposed through the back half of the clasp, a pin disposed on a back surface of the front half of the clasp, and a pin cap removably disposed on an apex of the pin. The clasp has an open position and an alternate closed position. The pin is disposed through the aperture when the clasp is in the closed position. The pin is disposed outside of the aperture when the clasp is in the open position. |
| US09516920B1 |
Footwear structure
A footwear structure comprising a shoe having sidewalls and including gaps provided in the sidewalls extending from the sole and positioned on either side of the footwear in alignment with the medial and lateral malleoli; closure systems are provided to partially close the gaps for applying a selected force to the wearer's foot through internal pads bridging the respective gap and contacting the wearer's foot. |
| US09516916B2 |
Footwear with improved sole
An article of footwear including an outer sole assembly and an upper, the outer sole assembly extending lengthwise from a rear end to a front end, widthwise between a lateral side and a medial side, and heightwise between a surface for contact with the ground and a surface for connecting to the upper, the sole assembly including a first reinforcing layer extending lengthwise from a rear end to a front end, widthwise between a lateral side and a medial side, and heightwise between a distal surface and a proximal surface, the first reinforcing layer having transverse slits. The sole assembly includes a wear layer and a first damping layer, the wear layer demarcating the contact surface. The first damping layer is located between the wear layer and the first reinforcing layer. |
| US09516914B2 |
Self-closing ventilation insert and method for producing it
The subject of the patent application is a self-closing ventilation insert for ventilating textiles, shoes or articles made up of at least two air-permeable layers, an absorber layer arranged between the air permeable layers, coverings above the air-permeable layers and at least one protective element. The absorber arranged in the chambers of the ventilation insert swells when it absorbs moisture and thereby closes the chambers of the ventilation insert to make them impermeable to water and air. When the ventilation insert is dried, the chambers open and become permeable to air again. Furthermore, a method of producing the ventilation insert by injection molding is described. The ventilation insert according to the invention may be used in a wide variety of areas, both in the clothing sector and in technical areas. |
| US09516913B2 |
Motorcycling boot with improved comfort
A motorcycling boot, in particular a motocross boot comprises a sole and an upper in turn comprising a bottom portion, suitable for surrounding the user's foot, and a leg-piece suitable for surrounding the user's leg. A first protection means is connected to said leg-piece in the region of the shin, while a second protection means is connected to said leg-piece in the region of the calf. Said first protection means comprises an element suitable for sliding inside guiding means formed in said first protection means, while said second protection means comprises an element suitable for sliding inside guiding means formed in said second protection means. The movement of said elements allows variation, during use of the boot, of the configuration of the leg-piece. |
| US09516912B2 |
Shoe with removable magnetic toe cap
A shoe having a magnetically removable toe cap, where the shoe includes an upper, a heel secured to the upper, a sole secured to the upper, the sole having an outsole and a support fixedly secured to the outsole, the upper comprising a vamp secured to the sole in such a way as to form an open toe section, the shoe also comprising a magnet hidden and secured within the vamp; and, a metal toe cap having a lower flange portion and an upper portion, the toe cap arranged to be magnetically attracted to the magnet hidden within the vamp, and to lock in place with the shoe, where the lower flange portion contacts and circumscribes the outsole, and the upper portion contacts and circumscribes the vamp when the toe cap is magnetically secured to the shoe. |
| US09516911B2 |
Hardhat accessory interchange system
An interchangeable accessory system for hardhats is disclosed which includes two accessory interchange assemblies that permit accessories such as face shields and welding shields to be attached to and removed from a hardhat while the hardhat remains on the head of the user. |
| US09516906B1 |
Special flushable disposable gloves systems
A flushable disposable glove system having flushable disposable gloves to cover a hand of a user-wearer having at least one securer to prevent the flushable disposable glove from unwanted displacement; and at least one container having a pull-up raised top section with fanned, accordion-style walls, a base, a front side, a back side, a left side, a right side, and an interior volume. The flushable disposable gloves are stored and dispensed from the container. The flushable disposable glove is removably placable on a left hand and a right hand prior to urinating or defecating. The flushable disposable glove protects the hand of the user-wearer while cleaning a genital region after urinating and defecating thereby preventing the user-wearer from getting urine and feces on the hand of the user-wearer. |
| US09516904B2 |
Upper body garment for providing support
An upper body undergarment with two wide strap or garment style shoulders connected to a full-support bra at two front points. The straps are made from any suitable material, and is widest at the points of attachment to the bra, in this case the front of the subject embodiment where it is stitched directly to the cups, or made removable as per the description of the back ends of the straps. The straps then taper towards the apex of the shoulders to fit the width of a wearer's shoulders. The cups of the brassiere can be of any method or material generally employed in the art of support bra construction. The side panels of the brassiere connect from the outer sides of the cups around to the back of the wearer, and also serve to connect to the wide strap or garment style shoulders. Restickable or repositionable adhesive is used to create adjustment, fastening, or closure, or removable or other attachment in the undergarment. |
| US09516901B2 |
Pair of complementary articles of clothing
A pair of complementary articles of clothing, such as socks, that can be detachably connected to each other. The detachable connection can be made by first and second complementary connecting elements, which are each fastened to the article of clothing by a carrier element, wherein one of the ends of each carrier element forms a gripping area without a connecting function, so that the connection between the first and the second connecting element can be detached by pulling on the gripping areas of the carrier elements. |
| US09516898B2 |
Electronic cigarette
The present invention relates to an electronic cigarette, which includes a smoking component having a suction nozzle and a battery rod. The suction nozzle is configured at an end of the smoking component and is far away from the battery rod. The smoking component further comprises a receiving chamber having an atomizer base which separates the receiving chamber into an atomized cavity and a cavity. One end of the suction nozzle, being far away from the battery rod, has an air outlet, and another end of the suction nozzle, being close to the cavity, has an air inlet. The smoking component has airflow through channel connecting the air outlet, the cavity and the air inlet. The electronic cigarette of the present invention is easy to be manufactured, and the batteries in the battery rod of the electronic cigarette can be protected from be damaged by the hot smoking airflow. |
| US09516897B1 |
Smoking article and method for a cigar or cigarillo having a longitudinal bore for adjustable draw
A smoking article provides a purchased, as-built cigar that can be disassembled to form multiple cigars, enabling a consumer to make his or her own cigars using custom tobacco filler. The as-built cigar is capped as part of its construction, preferably at one end or at both ends. A smoker removes the cap or caps to enable smoking of the as-built cigar or disassembly into layers. Each layer can then be rolled with a smoker's custom tobacco. The inner layer contains tobacco filler. Upon disassembly, the inner layer and tobacco filler can be smoked. Alternatively, the inner layer can be pulled apart at a provided serration to discard the tobacco filler and then filled and rolled with a smoker's custom tobacco filler material. |
| US09516895B2 |
Additive release component
A deformable additive release component (1) for a smoking article is disclosed, comprising an aperture (8) through which additive may be released, an outer wall section (2), an inner wall section (3) that defines a chamber (10) within which the additive is held and at least one channel (5) between the inner and outer wall sections to allow airflow through the component, wherein the component is configured to transmit a compressive force applied to the outer wall section to the inner wall section and to open the aperture. A filter (25) for a smoking article that comprises said additive release component, and a smoking article (21) that comprises said additive release component or said filter, are also described. Methods of manufacturing the additive release components is also disclosed. |
| US09516894B2 |
Moist botanical pouch processing and moist oral botanical pouch products
An oral pouched product comprising a pouch containing moist botanical beads comprising compacted loose, fibrous moist botanical material and method of manufacture thereof. The loose, fibrous moist botanical material can comprise moist smokeless tobacco. The pouch comprises a porous outer web, and the beads comprise a majority amount of loose, fibrous moist botanical material having a moisture content of at least about 50% OV. |
| US09516890B2 |
Rib maze that prevents flow along a wall
An airflow deflector including a plurality of spaced apart ribs each extending in a longitudinal direction between a first end and a second end thereof that is generally perpendicular to an airflow stream to be deflected by the airflow deflector such that the plurality of spaced apart ribs induce recirculations of the airflow stream between neighboring ones of the plurality of spaced apart ribs to increase air pressure at an entrance to areas defined between neighboring ribs and restrict the airflow from flowing past the plurality of spaced apart ribs. |
| US09516888B2 |
Beta-galactosidase derived from bacillus circulans
Disclosed is a novel β-galactosidase. Specifically disclosed are a β-galactosidase derived from Bacillus circulans and a gene for the β-galactosidase. The β-galactosidase can be used, for example, in the production of milk, dairy products, fermented dairy products, galacto-oligosaccharides or supplements for foods. |
| US09516887B1 |
Handheld skinning device with a simple blade replacement
A handheld skinning device having a tooth roll, which is retained motor-driven in a housing with side arms and rotating about an axis, and having a blade which in an operating position is positioned with a gap parallel to the tooth roll and is retained in a blade mount, which is formed by side parts fixed to the side arms of the housing and a blade holder. The blade mount in the operating position is fixed in the side arms by releasable locking, and in an opened position of the blade mount the blade can be removed from the blade holder. The locking of the blade mount in the operating position occurs by two spring-loaded locking pins in the arms, which are releasable together via a disengaging plate and in the opened position the blade holder remains connected to the arms of the housing. |
| US09516886B2 |
Effective animal stunning
An animal stunning apparatus for inducing unconsciousness and insensibility of a live subject animal includes an applicator for contacting an application point on the live subject animal's head and couples microwave radiation to the head. A microwave generator generates microwave energy of a suitable power level and frequency, and a waveguide directs the microwave radiation to the applicator. An auto-tuner in the waveguide uses a directional coupler to detect forward and reflected power and to tune in real time the impedance for matching the load and optimize effective power transfer. A switch discontinues the application of microwave radiation that is heating the frontal portion of the brain after a period of time sufficient to induce the unconsciousness and insensibility. Methods for inducing rapid unconsciousness and insensibility in an animal include application of microwave radiation. |
| US09516885B2 |
Composition and process for baked food products to impart the sensorial attributes of fried food products
A composition and process for cooked food products is provided to impart the sensorial attributes of fried food products. The composition is in the form of a batter coating, either powdered or wet, which is applied to a food product, and when cooked, has the taste, texture and appearance of a fried food product. The batter coating includes at least an enzyme-modified starch or flour or other starch-containing material having oil absorbing capabilities. The enzyme-modified starch is plated with a liquid cooking oil in order to bring the liquid cooking oil into the process, and the batter coating retains the incorporated liquid cooking oil during processing to impart a fat fried texture, appearance and taste to the cooked food product. |
| US09516884B2 |
Bowl for a kneading machine
A bowl for a kneading machine includes a bottom provided with an opening, a discharge device equipped with a plug, and an actuator configured for moving the plug between a position for closing the opening, in which the latter is engaged by the plug, and a position of discharge of the bowl, in which the opening is disengaged from the plug so as to be able to discharge through it the dough prepared in the machine. The actuator is a linear actuator configured for moving the plug, and cam means are configured for guiding movement of the plug along a path comprising a horizontal rectilinear stretch. |
| US09516878B2 |
Aqueous chlorous acid solution for use as disinfectant
A process for producing aqueous chlorous acid solution in which chlorous acid, which is safe for the human body, is easy to handle, and less generates chlorine dioxide, is yielded and used as a disinfectant for a pretreatment in food processing. To an aqueous sodium chlorate solution is added sulfuric acid or an aqueous solution thereof in such an amount and concentration that the pH of the aqueous solution can be kept at 2.3-3.4 to thereby react them and generate chloric acid. Subsequently, hydrogen peroxide is added to the chloric acid in an amount which is equal to or larger than the amount necessary for a reduction reaction to thereby yield chlorous acid. Any one of inorganic acids, inorganic acid salts, organic acids, and organic acid salts, or two or more thereof, or a combination or these is added to the aqueous solution containing chlorous acid yielded, whereby the chlorous and acid can be present for long and the pH of the aqueous solution is regulated to regulated to 3.2-7.0. Thus, high bactericidal power is imparted thereto. |
| US09516876B2 |
Cell cryopreservation tool
A cell cryopreservation tool has a cell holding member having a body part and a cell holding part and a tubular accommodation member, closed at one end thereof, which is capable of accommodating the cell holding member. The cell holding part of the cell holding member has a long and narrow cell attaching and holding portion. The cell attaching and holding portion has a heat conductor extended in a longitudinal direction thereof. When the cell holding member is accommodated in the tubular accommodation member, the heat conductor is capable of contacting an inner surface of the tubular accommodation member. |
| US09516875B2 |
Systems and methods for ex vivo lung care
Methods and systems of maintaining, evaluating, and providing therapy to a lung ex vivo. The methods and systems involve positioning the lung in an ex vivo perfusion circuit; circulating a perfusion fluid through the lung, the fluid entering the lung through a pulmonary artery interface and leaving the lung through a left atrial interface; and ventilating the lung by flowing a ventilation gas through a tracheal interface. Maintaining the lung for extended periods involves causing the lung to rebreath a captive volume of air, and reaching an equilibrium state between the perfusion fluid and the ventilation gas. Evaluating the gas exchange capability of the lung involves deoxygenating the perfusion fluid and measuring a time taken to reoxygenate the perfusion fluid by ventilating the lung with an oxygenation gas. |
| US09516874B2 |
Hunting tree stand
A hunting tree stand is disclosed. The hunting tree stand includes a backbone configured to be secured to a tree, an inner radial support beam having a generally arc shape, and a plurality of cantilevered supports extending outwards from the inner radial support beam. In addition, the hunting tree stand includes a pair of adjustment plates disposed on a respective proximate end of the plurality of cantilevered supports and configured to be secured to opposing sides of a lower end of the backbone. A plurality of adjustment apertures are disposed in a curvilinear pattern on the pair of adjustment plates, where the plurality of adjustment apertures are positioned so that an angle of a decking to the backbone can be adjusted relative to the backbone by rotating the decking downwards or upwards and inserting an adjustment pin through a desired adjustment aperture and the lower end of the backbone. |
| US09516873B2 |
Equipment designs for applying agricultural management materials
An apparatus and method for applying an agricultural management material to targeted area. Exemplary agricultural management materials include viscous materials. |
| US09516869B2 |
Material application to fishing lures possessing temperature sensitive chromaticity vicissitude creating a color changing fishing lure or rubber bait
A process where materials are applied to a plastic fishing lure surface, producing a lure that possesses chromatic vicissitude as a result of water temperature fluctuations. A non-thermochromatic base layer of one or more colors is applied to the plastic fishing lure. This layer acts as the visual appearance of the fishing lure in the absence of temperature fluctuations. Clear extender is then used as an additive to the thermochromatic ink. This addition to the ink then allows the ink to be sprayed onto the surface of the lure. This ink-extender amalgam can be applied in multiple layers however the bottom layer must have the least amount of hue saturation. Each layer thereafter would increase in hue saturation. Multiple hue combinations can be utilized. Once the desired number of thermochromatic layers has been applied, an ultra-clear super high gloss lacquer finish is sprayed on to the exterior of all layers. |
| US09516866B2 |
Marine containment device
A marine containment device is disclosed for containing a marine species. The device includes a body having a first end and a second end. An entry is in the first end for defining an open position and a closed position. The open position is created by a spearing device with a marine species pushing against the entry and allowing the marine species into the body. The closed position is created by the spearing device removing the spearing device from the body and stripping the marine species off the spearing device. A displacement drain is in the second end for displacing the water within the body during the open position and minimizing displacement of the water through the entry. A travel distance is in the displacement drain for offsetting the exiting water from the body and prohibiting protrusion of the marine species from the body. |
| US09516864B2 |
Structure of pet feces collection bag
A pet feces collection bag comprises a carrier plate, a handle portion, and a bag. The handle portion, formed as a frame structure, is coupled to two corresponding sides of a periphery of the carrier plate and extends outward therefrom thereby defining the carrier plate into a front part having a first predetermined length and a rear part having a second predetermined length along a specific direction, wherein the first predetermined length is smaller than the second predetermined length. The bag is connected to peripheries of the handle portion and the rear part by a predetermined connection manner. The handle portion is operated to rotate around the carrier plate within 360 degrees about a specific axis whereby an opening of the bag is selectively to be opened or closed. The carrier plate and the handle portion are formed as one-piece unit. |
| US09516863B2 |
Threshold barrier system
An animal containment system is described that comprises a transmitter unit and a receiver, the transmitter unit comprising a transmitter coil and signal generator. The signal generator transmits a modulated activation signal through the coil and generates a uniform magnetic field within a region around the coil. A receiver travels through a portion of the uniform magnetic field and uses information of periodically emphasized positively directed portions of the signal to detect a first polarity of the magnetic field in a first detection area and a second reversed polarity of the magnetic field in the second detection area. A detected reversal of polarity indicates a boundary crossing event including the receiver transitioning across the boundary. |
| US09516860B2 |
Animal monitoring system and method
An animal monitoring system has sensor modules carried on respective animals. Each module includes a GPS position locator to determine a current position of the animal, a transmitter, and a controller arranged to store a previously determined position of the animal thereon. A central monitoring system is located remotely from the animal which stores boundary position data representing a boundary thereon and which is arranged to communicate with the sensor module over a network. If the position of the animal changes significantly, a notification signal is transmitted to the central monitoring system which compares the current position to the boundary position data to determine is a user should be notified of an alarm condition. The sensor modules may also monitor various physiological characteristics of the animal to notify the central monitor system and subsequently the user if the animal appears to be in danger. |
| US09516858B2 |
Rodent containment cage monitoring apparatus and methods
Methods, apparatuses and systems for convenient management of animals within a rodent containment cage system that includes labeling components, receiving data, associating the data, reporting the data and/or associations and locating components within the cage system. The management of the system may be self-contained, networked through a controller, local server and/or main server. |
| US09516857B2 |
Rodent containment cage monitoring apparatus and methods
Methods, apparatuses and systems for convenient management of animals within a rodent containment cage system that includes labeling components, receiving data, associating the data, reporting the data and/or associations and locating components within the cage system. The management of the system may be self-contained, networked through a controller, local server and/or main server. |
| US09516855B2 |
Method and arrangements for improving animal's performance by reducing the amount of biologically active particles in the stable air
A method and arrangement to improve animal's biological and/or physical performance by reducing the bioload, defined as biologically active particles in the stable air or within transporter vehicles. The method includes generating a negatively charged electrostatic field operating within the room capturing the particles. The arrangement includes elements for producing a negatively charged electrostatic field capturing air borne particulate matter whereby high voltage >6 kV at low amperage (<10 mA) is applied to a basic conductive structure positioned in the air of the stable or the transporter vehicle, to which carbon fiber filaments are attached, causing the release of electrons from the free ending carbon fibers into the air and thereby generating the negatively charged electrostatic field. |
| US09516852B2 |
Lettuce named mojito
Novel lettuce cultivar, designated MOJITO, is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of lettuce cultivar MOJITO, to the plants of lettuce line MOJITO and to methods for producing a lettuce plant by crossing the cultivar MOJITO with itself or another lettuce line, respectively. The invention further relates to methods for producing a lettuce plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic plants produced by that method and to methods for producing other lettuce lines derived from the cultivar MOJITO. |
| US09516850B2 |
Wheat cultivar HY 271-SRW and compositions and methods of using the same
A wheat cultivar designated HY 271-SRW is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds and plants of wheat cultivar HY 271-SRW and to methods for producing wheat seeds and plants by crossing wheat cultivar HY 271-SRW with itself or another wheat cultivar or wheat plant not designated a cultivar. The invention also relates to methods for producing seeds and plants of wheat cultivar HY 271-SRW containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic wheat plants and plant parts produced by those methods. The invention also relates to methods for producing seeds and plants by mutagenesis of wheat cultivar HY 271-SRW. The invention also relates to hybrid wheat seeds and plants produced by crossing wheat cultivar HY 271-SRW with another wheat cultivar. |
| US09516849B1 |
Soybean variety XBP34011
A novel soybean variety, designated XBP34011 is provided. Also provided are the seeds of soybean variety XBP34011, cells from soybean variety XBP34011, plants of soybean XBP34011, and plant parts of soybean variety XBP34011. Methods provided include producing a soybean plant by crossing soybean variety XBP34011 with another soybean plant, methods for introgressing a transgenic trait, a mutant trait, and/or a native trait into soybean variety XBP34011, methods for producing other soybean varieties or plant parts derived from soybean variety XBP34011, and methods of characterizing soybean variety XBP34011. Soybean seed, cells, plants, germplasm, breeding lines, varieties, and plant parts produced by these methods and/or derived from soybean variety XBP34011 are further provided. |
| US09516847B1 |
Soybean variety XBP32010
A novel soybean variety, designated XBP32010 is provided. Also provided are the seeds of soybean variety XBP32010, cells from soybean variety XBP32010, plants of soybean XBP32010, and plant parts of soybean variety XBP32010. Methods provided include producing a soybean plant by crossing soybean variety XBP32010 with another soybean plant, methods for introgressing a transgenic trait, a mutant trait, and/or a native trait into soybean variety XBP32010, methods for producing other soybean varieties or plant parts derived from soybean variety XBP32010, and methods of characterizing soybean variety XBP32010. Soybean seed, cells, plants, germplasm, breeding lines, varieties, and plant parts produced by these methods and/or derived from soybean variety XBP32010 are further provided. |
| US09516843B2 |
Canola variety 45H33
Provided is a canola variety designated 45H33 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof produced from a cross of inbred varieties. Methods for producing a canola variety comprise crossing canola variety 45H33 with another canola plant. Methods for producing a canola plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into 45H33 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the canola seed, plant and plant part produced thereby are described. Canola variety 45H33, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, plant parts and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of canola variety 45H33 are disclosed. |
| US09516838B2 |
Maize hybrid X70F225
A novel maize variety designated X70F225 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof are produced by crossing inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant by crossing hybrid maize variety X70F225 with another maize plant are disclosed. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X70F225 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X70F225, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X70F225. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X70F225. |
| US09516837B1 |
Maize hybrid X18F975
A novel maize variety designated X18F975 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof are produced by crossing inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant by crossing hybrid maize variety X18F975 with another maize plant are disclosed. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X18F975 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X18F975, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X18F975. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X18F975. |
| US09516834B1 |
Soybean variety ELL909
The soybean variety ELL0909 is disclosed. The invention relates to seeds, plants, plant cells, plant tissue, harvested products and soybean lint as well as to hybrid soybean plants and seeds obtained by repeatedly crossing plants of variety ELL0909 with other plants. The invention also relates to plants and varieties produced by the method of essential derivation from plants of ELL0909 and to plants of ELL0909 reproduced by vegetative methods, including but not limited to tissue culture of regenerable cells or tissue from ELL0909. |
| US09516832B1 |
Soybean variety DLL1149
The soybean variety DLL1149 is disclosed. The invention relates to seeds, plants, plant cells, plant tissue, harvested products and soybean lint as well as to hybrid soybean plants and seeds obtained by repeatedly crossing plants of variety DLL1149 with other plants. The invention also relates to plants and varieties produced by the method of essential derivation from plants of DLL1149 and to plants of DLL1149 reproduced by vegetative methods, including but not limited to tissue culture of regenerable cells or tissue from DLL1149. |
| US09516830B1 |
Soybean variety ELL0041
The soybean variety ELL0041 is disclosed. The invention relates to seeds, plants, plant cells, plant tissue, harvested products and soybean lint as well as to hybrid soybean plants and seeds obtained by repeatedly crossing plants of variety ELL0041 with other plants. The invention also relates to plants and varieties produced by the method of essential derivation from plants of ELL0041 and to plants of ELL0041 reproduced by vegetative methods, including but not limited to tissue culture of regenerable cells or tissue from ELL0041. |
| US09516828B2 |
Melon variety NUN 26357 MEM
The invention relates to the field of Cucumis melo, in particular to a new variety of melon designated NUN 26357 MEM as well as plants, seeds and melon fruits thereof. |
| US09516826B2 |
Melon variety NUN 35007 MEM
The invention relates to the field of Cucumis melo, in particular to a new variety of melon designated NUN 35007 MEM as well as plants, seeds and melon fruits thereof. |
| US09516822B2 |
Modular automated aeroponic growth system
An aeroponic growth system comprising a plurality of modular aeroponic units each including at least one spray nozzle directed into a root zone; a lighting system associated with the plurality of the modular units and configured for emitting light in a vegetative zone; a pressurized reservoir configured for housing a nutrient containing fluid; and a nutrient feeding system configured for fluidly and selectively connecting each of the modular units to the pressurized reservoir in parallel, wherein the nutrient feeding system includes a pressure stop valve associated with each of the modular units. When one of the modular units are disconnected to the associated pressure stop valve, the pressure stop valve is configured for preventing the fluid from flowing from the pressurized reservoir through the pressure stop valve, and the other modular units connected to the nutrient feeding system remain fluidly connected to the pressure reservoir. |
| US09516821B1 |
Self-watering planter insert assembly
A self-contained, low-maintenance planter insert assembly used indoors or outdoors in planters and other containers to provide prolonged self-watering of plants in a tray supported by its fluid-containing base member. A fill-tube and handle combination upwardly-depending from the tray helps lift and position a bottom perimeter notch against an interior rim in the base member for stable but readily-separable connection between them. Plant roots may be in growth/support medium distributed directly into the tray, or in drainable pots. Fluid-permeable material under the support medium allows surplus rainwater to refill the base member, and a wicking member or members extend from the base member to the tray distributing fluid upwardly to plant roots. No connections for power or water are needed for insert assembly function, and its tray has detachable rings for height-adjustment. Applications include, but are not limited to, residential and commercial use, including hotels, convention centers, malls, and schools. |
| US09516820B1 |
Irrigation system for hanging plants and method of irrigating hanging plants
An irrigation system for hanging plants in a hanging plant carousel system that includes a frame and a measuring assembly. The frame is fixedly coupled to a substantially stationary structure, such as the building or a portion of a truss system supporting the carousel system. The measuring assembly includes a movable arm, a sensor and a controller. The movable arm has a contact surface with a measuring start and end point, which extends into the path of the basket hook coupled to the cable of the carousel system. The movable arm is displaceable by at least one of the basket hook or a plant pot structure coupled thereto. The sensor coupled to the movable arm and is configured to provide data from which the weight of a plant pot structure can be determined. The controller is configured to control a watering system to provide water to the plant pot structure. |
| US09516816B2 |
Multiple drums conveyor for an agricultural platform
A feeder drum used in an agriculture head to force the cut crop through an opening of the head. More specifically, the feeder drum is used to produce the transition from the lateral movement of the crop through the platform to a transverse longitudinal movement (with respect to lateral movement) which directs it to the platform carrier's feeder. Even more specifically, the feeder drum comprises a plurality of fins or blades attached to a cylinder, wherein the fins contain one side with a profile describing a convex curve. |
| US09516815B2 |
Harvester and method using an RFID system for detecting and locating objects and conditions along a harvesting path
A harvester for agricultural products such as fruits such as grapes, berries, vegetables, and the like, and method of harvesting, using an RFID system capable of detecting and interrogating RFID tags associated with objects or conditions along a path of the harvester in a manner to determine both presence and location of the associated object or condition, to enable responsively adapting or altering the operation of harvesting apparatus in a predetermined manner, such as by reducing or interrupting forces exerted thereby when about or proximate the object or condition. |
| US09516812B2 |
Combine harvester having a driver assistance system
A combine harvester includes a driver assistance system that regulates a spreading on the ground of a crop flow exiting the combine harvester. The driver assistance system includes spreading strategies that can be selected in order to regulate the spreading of the crop flow exiting the combine harvester. |
| US09516809B2 |
Lawn mower having deck lift system with overbiasing springs
A deck lift system is adapted to permit at least the cutter deck to be raised and lowered relative to the ground so as to selectively adjust the mower's height of cut. The mower includes a deck lift system for raising and lowering the cutter deck assembly, an engine deck and the engine together as a unit. The deck lift system including at least a deck lift lever for selective operation by an operator of the mower and first and second biasing springs for at least helping raise the cutter deck assembly, engine deck, and engine. Biasing springs collectively provide sufficient biasing force so that operator of the mower has to physically push down on the deck lift lever in order to lower the cutter deck. |
| US09516807B2 |
Straight through line feed vegetation trimmer apparatus
A trimmer head for use with either clockwise or counterclockwise trimmer heads, including the use of a bidirectionally dispensing spool. Various locations of passages straight through the trimmer head and spool are shown along with various locations of components of the ratcheting mechanism to allow for winding of the trimmer line on the trimmer head and for limiting the amount of line dispensed during “bumping” of the trimmer head knob on the ground. Because of the careful arrangement of the components, the trimmer head can have line wound in a single direction on the spool and still dispense line regardless of the direction that the trimmer head rotates by speeding up or slowing down the spool relative to the trimmer head housing to allow line to dispense independent of the direction of the rotation of the trimmer machine drive shaft rotating the trimmer head. |
| US09516806B2 |
Robotic lawn mowing boundary determination
A method of mowing an area with an autonomous mowing robot comprises storing, in non-transient memory of the robot, a set of geospatially referenced perimeter data corresponding to positions of the mowing robot as the mowing robot is guided about a perimeter of an area to be mowed, removing from the set of perimeter data one or more data points thereby creating a redacted data set and controlling the mowing robot to autonomously mow an area bounded by a boundary corresponding to the redacted data set, including altering direction of the mowing robot at or near a position corresponding to data in the redacted data set so as to redirect the robot back into the bounded area. |
| US09516805B2 |
Particulate material delivery system
A particulate material delivery system is provided that allows for variable rate sectional control while delivering particulate material to an agricultural field. The system may include an air cart and a drill that are towable behind a tractor and that includes a metering system receiving product from the air cart and delivering the product to the drill for distribution to the ground, such as an agricultural field. The metering system includes multiple metering units that receive separate portions of the product from the air cart. Multiple prime movers drive the multiple metering units. A controller is connected to and individually controls the multiple prime movers such that distribution rates of the multiple metering units can be varied independently of each other. |
| US09516804B1 |
Vacuum seeder
A vacuum seeder for dispersing seeds at regular intervals into a seeding mechanism includes a pipe having first and second ends, at least one circumferential row of apertures therethrough, the pipe being rotatably mounted to a frame that moves along the ground. A vacuum mechanism is fixed with the second end of the pipe to produce a negative pressure within the pipe. A drive motor is fixed with the frame and coupled with the pipe for driving the pipe in a first rotational direction. A reservoir is fixed with the frame and holds the seeds positioned adjacent an upwardly-moving side of the pipe. At least one seed removal mechanism, such as a seed scraper, is fixed with the frame and positioned adjacent a downward side of the pipe to divert the seeds away from the pipe and into at least one seed receiver for delivery to the seeding mechanism. |
| US09516803B1 |
Tamping wheel
An adjustable tamping wheel forms a berm of a desired cross section over a recently filled trench. The tamping wheel contains a center spindle, an offset left spindle, an offset right spindle, a freely rotating center basket on the center spindle with transverse tamping members, a freely rotating left basket on the left spindle with inwardly converging transverse tamping members, and a freely rotating right basket on the right spindle with inwardly converging transverse tamping members. |
| US09516801B2 |
Tillage implement with stop for resilient mounting
An agricultural tillage implement including a carriage frame assembly and pull hitch towed by a tractor and secondary frames supported by the carriage frame assembly. The secondary frames support gangs of disk blades for tilling the soil in a travel direction. Bearing hanger assemblies support the gangs of disk blades below the secondary frames through a C shaped resilient element. Stop elements are mounted on the bearing hanger assemblies and to a cross bar to limit deflection of the C shaped elements by abutting some of the secondary frames. |
| US09516799B2 |
Tilling apparatus
A tilling apparatus and a method of tilling soils which includes the use of a rotational shaft having a number of cutter assemblies located at spaced apart locations on the shaft in which each cutter assembly has a multitude of blades which rotate as the rotary shaft rotates to form a plurality of spaced apart trenches having the same spacing as the spacing of the cutters, and a width caused by the width of the blades. As the blades dig the trench, the soil contacted by the blades is granulated and is tossed about by the spinning blades so that some soil falls back into the trench and some falls along the periphery of the trench to form rows of aerated granules which promote enhanced growth of plants or seeds in the trench and along the edge of the trench to improve the yield of pasture having the trenches. Various attachments can be provided on the tilling apparatus, either in front of or towards the rear of the spinning blades for different purposes, such as rippers, seeders, levelers, or similar. The advantage of the tilling apparatus is that the soil is formed into granules which are used to form an aerated array of soil granules having enhanced growing properties for plants. |
| US09516798B2 |
Folding sequence of entire agricultural tillage implement
An agricultural tillage implement including a main frame section having a pull hitch tube extending in a travel direction is provided, including a tool bar coupled with and extending transverse to the pull hitch tube, and a plurality of wing sections pivotally coupled with the main frame section about generally vertical axes. Each of the plurality of wing sections have at least one pivoting wing front shank frame. A main shank frame straddles the pull hitch tube. The main shank frame, the pivoting wing front shank frames, and the wing sections articulate from an operating configuration to a transport configuration. A controller for controlling the agricultural tillage implement controls the sequence in which the parts articulate. |
| US09516797B2 |
Systems and methods for treating a ground surface
Some embodiments of a ground surface treatment system can include a flexible roller system having one or more of rollers arranged in a side-by-side position and include a flexible axle member extending through each row of rollers. |
| US09521791B2 |
Assembly equipment and assembly method thereof
The present invention provides an assembly equipment and an assembly method thereof. The assembly equipment is used for assembling a flexible screen with a curved backplane and includes a supporting part used for supporting and fixing the curved backplane and a holding part used for holding the flexible screen and assembling the flexible screen with the curved backplane in a fit manner. The assembly equipment is provided with the supporting part and the holding part to stably fix the curved backplane and assemble the flexible screen with the curved backplane in a fit manner quickly and accurately, thereby realizing high-efficiency assembly of the flexible screen and the curved backplane, and meanwhile realizing a high yield of display panels formed by assembling the flexible screen and the curved backplane. |
| US09521790B2 |
Panel and method for manufacturing the same
A panel includes a display window and a supporting body integrated with the display window. The display window is made of sapphire and the supporting body is made of ceramic materials. The supporting body is integrally formed with the supporting body by sintering process. A method for manufacturing the panel is also provided. |
| US09521788B2 |
Mobile device cover with detachable EMF blocker
An EMF blocker having a blocking shield made of a material to sufficiently block EMF radiation emitted from electronic devices. The EMF blocker has necessary coupling mechanism to detachably couple to the electronic device so that an ideal relative positioning between the electronic device and the EMF blocker is ensured. The EMF blocker also has necessary coupling mechanism to couple to a user of the electronic device to the EMF blocker. The EMF blocker can be in the form of a bib, an apron, a blanket, an article of clothing, a panel. The electronic device can be any mobile electronic device, laptop computer, or even a desktop computer. |
| US09521785B1 |
Heat capture system for electrical components providing electromagnetic pulse protection
An apparatus includes an electrically-powered component, a hermitically-sealed, liquid-impermeable, high thermal-conductivity, container encapsulating the electrically-powered component, and a liquid bath surrounding the hermitically-sealed container. The electrically-powered component can include a computer motherboard, a central processing unit of a computer, or an electrical power transformer. The container can include a substance in direct contact with the electrically-powered component and can include a silicone compound, an epoxy compound, or a polyurethane compound. |
| US09521781B2 |
Power component device
A power component device includes a heat sink having a recess with a base surface and a first side surface. The first side surface of the recess is at a generally acute angle relative to the base surface. The power component device includes a first passive electrical component with a support element, having a first side surface which faces the first side surface of the recess, and is at generally the same angle relative to the base surface as the first side surface of the recess is relative to the base surface. A pressure transmission element has a first side surface which is averted from the first side surface of the support element. The base surface is at a generally acute angle relative to the first pressure transmission element side surface. A pressure generating apparatus presses the support element against the first side surface of the recess. |
| US09521777B2 |
Cooling system for electronic components and led lamp having the same
The present invention is directed to a cooling system (1) for electronic components (4). The cooling system (1) comprises means (7) for producing cyclic air pressure fluctuations, wherein the electronic components (4) are distanced from the pressure producing means (7). In the vicinity of the electronic components (4) are situated means (5), preferably restrictions like holes, which are affected by the cyclic air pressure fluctuations, and which produce cyclic air jets (6). The air jets (6) affect the surface of the electronic component (4), and since the air jets (6) originate directly in the vicinity of the electronic components (4), an efficient heat transfer is affected. Preferably, the pressure producing means (7) actuate a pressure Pc inside a chamber (2), and turbulent air jets (6) are produced through holes (5) of a substrate (3), onto which electronic components (4) are mounted. |
| US09521776B1 |
Chassis rail stabilizer
A chassis rail stabilizer that may be used to securely support a rack mount rail in a server rack, in particular during transportation of the server rack. The chassis rail stabilizer includes a first body with a front face and a back face, and four rail supporting sides. The stabilizer further includes a second body extending off of the front face of the first body and an offset threaded through hole that extends through the first and second bodies. The offset nature of the through hole is such that the stabilizer may be secured to a vertical mounting post in a server rack in one of four orientations. Each orientation causes one of the rail supporting sides to extend downward a different distance to support a top surface of the rail beneath. |
| US09521775B2 |
Drive apparatus
A drive apparatus includes a power module, a connector and a heat sink. The connector is used for electric connection to an external side and has a flange, which is formed on its peripheral wall. The heat sink is formed to have a module holding part for holding the power module and a fitting hole for fitting with the flange and has a connector holding part for holding a connector. The flange is formed along a first surface, which faces the connector holding part of the peripheral wall, and side surfaces, which are formed on both sides of the first surface. Thus, water droplets are prevented from entering into a control unit through a clearance between the connector and the heat sink without adding other members such as a water preventing cover. |
| US09521761B1 |
Threaded inserts on weatherproof electrical junction boxes
A weatherproof electrical junction box that includes a molded electrical junction box and an insert is disclosed. Specific implementations may comprise a molded electrical box comprising four side walls, a back wall, a front opening, two screw bosses extending toward the front opening, and an unthreaded hole extending through a first side wall of the four side walls. Specific implementations may comprise an insert, the insert comprising an unthreaded exterior and a partially threaded interior. The insert may be fixed within the one unthreaded hole. |
| US09521760B2 |
Rigid flexible printed circuit board and method of manufacturing the same
A rigid flexible printed circuit board, having a rigid region and a flexible region, includes, in one embodiment: a base substrate including a portion in the rigid region and a portion in the flexible region; a coverlay formed on the base substrate; a first insulating layer formed on the coverlay and formed in the rigid region; a second insulating layer formed on the first insulating layer; and an outer layer circuit layer formed on the second insulating layer. Also described is a method of manufacturing a rigid flexible printed circuit board having a rigid region and a flexible region. |
| US09521759B2 |
Vertical conductive unit and manufacturing method thereof
The invention provides a vertical conductive unit. The vertical conductive unit comprises an insulating layer comprising a connecting via, a first conductor, a second conductor, and a third conductor. The insulating layer comprises photosensitive polyimide, and the glass transition temperature of the photosensitive polyimide is lower than about 200° C. The invention also provides a method for manufacturing the vertical conductive unit. |
| US09521754B1 |
Embedded components in a substrate
An embedded component is formed in a PCB stack by applying an adhesive layer across an entire surface of a copper layer and selectively positioning the component on a portion of the adhesive layer. A B stage pre-preg layer having a component cut-out is added onto the adhesive layer such that the component adhered to the adhesive layer fits within the component cut-out of the B stage pre-preg layer. Another copper layer is added onto the B stage pre-preg layer and the PCB stack is laminated. Since B stage pre-preg is not fully cured, a gap between the component and a side wall of the component cut-out is filled by flow of the surrounding B stage pre-preg during the lamination step. One or more additional pre-preg and copper layers are added to the PCB stack with corresponding interconnects formed and coupled to the contact pads on the component. |
| US09521743B2 |
Printed circuit board with crosstalk reduction features
A printed circuit board comprising conductive layers separated by insulation layers of dielectric material, at least one conductive layer being patterned and having at least one signal line embedded in insulation material. The at least one signal line is covered by a dielectric film, followed by a thin conductive layer, whereby the dielectric film covers at least one surface and both sides of the at least one signal line and the thin conductive layer extends, separated by the dielectric film, over the at least one surface of the signal line and at least partially over the height of both sides of the signal line. |
| US09521739B2 |
Printed circuit board and design method thereof
A printed circuit board (PCB) is provided. From top to bottom, the PCB sequentially includes: a top layer; an upper solder resist layer; a wiring layer; a lower solder resist layer; a bottom layer; and a hole installation part disposed on the upper solder resist layer, the wiring layer, the lower solder resist layer, and the bottom layer. Wherein, the hole installation part includes a screw hole and a copper exposing region; a copper foil is disposed on the copper exposing region of the upper solder resist layer, the wiring layer, the lower solder resist layer, and the bottom layer; an area of the copper foil is not less than an area of the copper exposing region. |
| US09521738B1 |
Graphite sheet to protect SMT components from thermal exposure
A formed graphite sheet is shaped and sized as a protective shield positioned over an electronic component coupled to a PCB. The formed graphite sheet is used to protect a body of the electronic component from heat applied during the assembly of the electronic component to the PCB, such as the heating steps used in SMT and through-hole technology. |
| US09521737B2 |
Power module
In a power module, a power semiconductor element is mounted on a heat dissipation substrate having a tilted part formed at an end portion thereof, a resin case is arranged so as to surround the power semiconductor element and to contact the heat dissipation substrate, and a cooling fin is arranged so as to contact a surface of the heat dissipation substrate opposite a surface of the heat dissipation substrate on which the power semiconductor element is mounted. The power module includes pressure member contacting the tilted part of the heat dissipation substrate to press the heat dissipation substrate against the cooling fin. |
| US09521736B2 |
Cold plasma electroporation of medication and associated methods
A method and device to apply a cold plasma to a substance at a treatment surface of a patient to cause electroporation of the substance into cells of the patient. The substance can be previously applied to the treatment surface. Alternatively, the substance can be placed in a foam-like material within a tip that passes the cold plasma from the cold plasma device to the treatment area. The tip can be a cannula device with an aperture at the distal end. The cannula device can also have apertures along a portion of the length of the cannula device. |
| US09521732B1 |
Wearable motion-signaling bag
A wearable motion-signaling bag is provided. The bag includes a housing, one or more straps connected to the housing and shaped to be worn by a user; one or more motion sensors; one or more lights contacting at least one surface of the housing; one or more controls configured to be activated by the user; and a microcontroller operable to execute under programmable control and interfaced to one or more of the sensors, the controls, and the lights, the microcontroller configured to provide signals regarding the motion of the user through the lights based on sensed data from the motion sensors and commands from the capacitive controls. The bag can receive commands from a user device and provide the signals based on the commands. |
| US09521730B2 |
Digital communication interface circuit for line-pair with duty cycle imbalance compensation
A circuit (200, 300, 400, 600, 700, 800) interfacing a device (20, 30, 40, 60, 80) with a line-pair includes: a diode bridge (210) having polarity-independent input terminals coupled to the line-pair; a galvanic isolation device (230, 330) receiving a transmit signal and coupling the transmit signal to its output; a variable edge delay circuit (270, 370, 572, 574, 576) that delays rising/falling edges of the transmit signal more than falling/rising edges of the transmit signal; a voltage-controlled variable resistance element (260, 360, 460) connected across output terminals of the diode bridge; and a filter connected to a control terminal of the voltage-controlled variable resistance element. The filter includes decoupled charge and discharge paths to decouple the rise time of the transmit signal from the fall time of the transmit signal. The voltage-controlled variable resistance element couples the transmit signal to the line-pair via the diode bridge. |
| US09521727B1 |
Lighting fixture with motion sensor and battery test switch
The present disclosure provides systems and techniques for a lighting fixture with a motion sensor and an emergency battery test switch. The disclosure herein provides a lighting fixture for fitting within a ceiling, wall, or other surface. The lighting fixture includes a frame which forms the perimeter of the lighting fixture. The frame includes two endplates and two side bars, forming an outer frame of the lighting fixture. The frame further includes a device mounting bracket coupled between the two endplates, separating the outer frame into two frames. Each of the two frames houses a lightguide which is coupled to a light source. Each of the light guides are coupled with a back reflector. The motion sensor and emergency battery test switch can be coupled to the device mounting bracket or elsewhere on the frame. |
| US09521726B2 |
Lighting systems and methods for displacing energy consumption using natural lighting fixtures
A lighting system for displacing energy is provided. The lighting system includes a light sensor to measure an amount of light provided from the natural lighting fixture to a building environment. The lighting system further includes processing electronics to receive information from the light sensor and to use the received information to determine when the amount of light provided from the natural lighting fixture is sufficient to allow one or more electric lighting fixtures to be turned off or dimmed, the processing electronics causing the one or more electric lighting fixtures to turn off or dim in response to the determination. The processing electronics are further configured to calculate the energy saved from turning off or dimming the one or more lighting fixtures. The lighting system further includes a communications interface configured to transmit the results of the calculation of energy saved from the processing electronics to a second party. |
| US09521723B2 |
Integrated device comprising a matrix of OLED active pixels with improved dynamic range
An integrated device includes a semiconducting substrate having a matrix of active pixels formed therein. Each active pixel includes an OLED diode, a first nMOS transistor having its source coupled to an anode of the OLED diode, and a refresh circuit coupled to a gate of the first nMOS transistor. The first nMOS transistor has its source and its substrate coupled together. The first nMOS transistor is situated in and on a first part of the semiconductor substrate, and the refresh circuit is situated in and on a second part of the semiconductor substrate, with the first part and the second part being electrically insulated from one another. |
| US09521721B2 |
Method of controling illumination device based on current-voltage model
The present invention relates to an illumination device including a number of LEDs and a processor for receiving an input signal and generating an activation signal for at least one of the LEDs based on the input signal. The illumination device further comprises an LED driver for obtaining the voltage across and current through the LED. The processor may generate the activation signal based on the voltage, the current and a current-voltage model related to the LED. The current-voltage model defines a relationship between the current, the voltage and the colorimetric properties of light emitted by the LED. The present invention relates also to a method of controlling and a method of calibrating such an illumination device. |
| US09521720B2 |
System for controlling the supply of power to and for thermal management of light sources
A device and method for controlling the supply of power to light sources, in which a DC/DC converter is capable of delivering a voltage VMAX to the light sources. The forward voltage of the light sources depends on temperature and may temporarily exceed VMAX at low temperatures. The invention proposes means that allow the required forward voltage to be decreased automatically depending on a measurement of ambient temperature. |
| US09521719B2 |
Circuit for driving lighting apparatus and method thereof
A circuit for driving a lighting apparatus is provided. The circuit includes a valley signal generator configured to generate a valley signal based on an input voltage, an input voltage determining unit configured to determine whether the input voltage corresponds to a direct voltage or a full-wave rectified AC voltage based on the valley signal, an AC voltage simulation unit configured to generate a virtual valley signal when the input voltage is a DC voltage, and a switching device controller configured to control a switching device used to drive an LED module based the determination and at least one of the valley signal and virtual valley signal. |
| US09521718B2 |
LED tube lamp having mode switching circuit
The LED tube lamp includes a lamp tube configured to receive an external driving signal; a rectifying circuit configured to rectify the external driving signal to produce a rectified signal; a filtering circuit coupled to the rectifying circuit, and configured to filter the rectified signal to produce a filtered signal, wherein the filtering circuit has a first filtering output terminal and a second filtering output terminal; an LED lighting module coupled to the filtering circuit, wherein the LED lighting module includes a driving circuit having a first driving output terminal and a second driving output terminal and configured to receive the filtered signal to produce a driving signal, and an LED module configured to receive the driving signal and emit light; and a mode switching circuit coupled to at least one of the first and the second filtering output terminal and at least one of the first and the second driving output terminal, and configured to determine to perform one of a first driving mode and a second driving mode. |
| US09521711B2 |
Low-cost low-power lighting system and lamp assembly
In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, a method and apparatus may include receiving an input waveform from a dimmer, wherein the input waveform is periodic at a first frequency. The method and apparatus may also include generating an output waveform independent of a load coupled to the output waveform, wherein the output waveform is periodic at a second frequency substantially greater than the first frequency, wherein at least one of the second frequency and an amplitude of the output waveform is based on a phase-cut angle of the input waveform indicative of a control setting of the dimmer. |
| US09521709B2 |
Transverse flux electric induction heat treatment of a discrete workpiece in a gap of a magnetic circuit
Discrete workpieces move through a longitudinally-oriented through-gap in an open-box rectangular ferromagnetic material. A transverse magnetic flux established in the through-gap inductively heats the discrete workpieces moving through the longitudinally-oriented through-gap. A longitudinal axis of the workpiece or the planar surface of a planarly-oriented workpiece is oriented either parallel to, or perpendicular to, the transverse magnetic flux to heat treat the workpiece. |
| US09521701B2 |
Conflict handling in a device configured to operate according to multiple cellular communication protocols
Handling conflicts between radio access technologies (RATs) in a device configured to operate according to multiple RATs. The device may be operated in a discontinuous reception (DRX) mode according to each of a first RAT and a second RAT using a shared radio. It may be determined that a conflicting wakeup time is scheduled according to DRX cycles of the first and second RATs. The radio may be operated according to the first RAT at the conflicting wakeup time. The second RAT may not use the radio at the conflicting wakeup time. A next wakeup time for the second RAT may be determined from multiple possible next wakeup times. The radio may be operated according to the second RAT at the determined next wakeup time. |
| US09521700B2 |
Controlling radio connection states
Control of transitions between radio resource control, RRC, states for a wireless terminal in a radio access network is described. The radio resource control states comprise a first state and a second state. A calculation (702) is made of a prediction of an inter-arrival time, ITB, between data bursts to be handled. A detection (704) that a data burst is to be handled is done and then it is decided (706) whether to make a transition from the first state to the second state essentially immediately and upon termination of handling of the detected data burst if the prediction of the ITB is greater than a current ITB threshold. The current ITB threshold is a time interval that is depending on a function of RRC state transition costs and the fractional distribution of true predictions and false predictions of a plurality of predicted ITB values in relation to recorded ITB values. Then, in accordance with the decision, the wireless terminal is directed (708) either to remain in the first state or switch to the second state. |
| US09521698B1 |
Wireless network interconnection
A method of connecting a first computing device and a wireless access point over a first wireless network using a second computing device, where the first and second computing devices are both enabled to communicate over the first wireless network and are both enabled to communicate over a second, different wireless network, and where there are first wireless network connection credentials for the wireless access point. The method includes establishing a wireless connection between the first and second computing devices over the second wireless network, sending the first wireless network connection credentials for the wireless access point from the second computing device to the first computing device over the second wireless network, and then establishing a connection between the first computing device and the wireless access point on the first network using the first wireless network connection credentials for the wireless access point. |
| US09521696B2 |
Wireless access point cell ID insertion in frame header
A wireless access point includes a wireless interface to send or receive frames in a cell in a wireless network. A storage device stores a cell ID that uniquely identifies the wireless access point. Processing circuitry inserts the cell ID in a physical layer header of a frame, and sends the frame to a client device in the cell via the wireless interface. |
| US09521694B2 |
Method and apparatus for initial access distribution over wireless LAN
Disclosed are a method and an apparatus for initial access distribution over a wireless LAN. A method for an initial access by a station (STA) comprises: a step in which the STA receives a fast initial link setup (FILS) backoff parameter from an access point (AP); and a step in which the STA implements a backoff procedure by using the final FILS backoff parameter determined on the basis of the FILS backoff parameter and an access category of the data to be transmitted by the STA. Accordingly, the initial access of the STA can be distributed. |
| US09521690B2 |
Method for QoS delivery in contention-based multi hop network
An arrangement and a method that, for a given pair of nodes that wish to intercommunicate with a high QoS measure, converts a portion of the contention-based network into a contention-less subnetwork by sending a reservation message and a confirmation message between the given pair of nodes. All nodes that are on the paths used for communicating between the pair of nodes are protected from interference by causing all nodes that potentially can interfere to enter a non-transmitting state. |
| US09521689B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling serving grant of user terminal of neighboring cell
Embodiments of the disclosure provide a method, an apparatus, and a system for controlling a serving grant of a user terminal (UE) of a neighboring cell. The method is used for controlling a UE in a CELL-FACH state or in an idle state of a neighboring cell through a common E-RGCH. The method includes: obtaining a control command by monitoring the common E-RGCH of the neighboring cell; determining whether the UE satisfies at least one further configured controlled condition; and when the UE satisfies the at least one controlled condition, adjusting the serving grant of the UE based on the obtained control command. Through the method and the apparatus according to the embodiments of the disclosure, throughput of the UE may be prevented from being reduced excessively, thereby improving communication performance. |
| US09521688B2 |
Signaling for uplink sounding
A method in a transmitting node in a wireless communication system for instructing a user terminal to perform uplink sounding is provided, said method comprising: generating an unlink grant in a downlink control information (DCI) for instructing the user terminal to transmit an uplink channel with only a reference signal; and transmitting the DCI with said uplink grant to the user terminal, and wherein said uplink grant is configured as a redundant state within the DCI. A method in a receiving node in a wireless communication system for performing uplink sounding is also provided. |
| US09521687B2 |
Method and apparatus for performing hybrid per station and per flow uplink allocations
Method and apparatus for performing hybrid per station and per flow/connection uplink allocations are described. The apparatus may implement a hybrid per flow/connection and per station uplink (UL) resource allocation to improve UL control efficiency and UL resource utilization. The apparatus may be configured to transmit or receive a resource allocation in a signal that contains an indicator that indicates intended flow information. |
| US09521683B2 |
Device to device communications
In a network controlled device to device service a reference radio bearer that would provide an adequate service in a cellular access mode is determined. Information of semi-static resource allocation is then determined for the reference radio bearer and signalled to at least one device for use in configuring the at least one device for device to device communications. The at least one device can use the information as guidance when configuring for device to device communications. |
| US09521678B2 |
Wireless data concentrators for aircraft data networks
Embodiments described herein provide for a four-channel Wireless Data Concentrator (WDC) for a data network of an aircraft. One embodiment of a WDC includes a Printed Circuit Board (PCB), and a controller. The controller is electrically coupled to a top surface of the PCB and is proximate to a centerline of the PCB. The WDC further includes four Radio Frequency (RF) transceivers electrically coupled to the top surface of the PCB that are disposed orthogonally to each other around the controller. Each RF transceiver communicates with at least one wireless sensor that measures an environment of the aircraft. The WDC further includes four inverted-F PCB trace antennas fabricated along the top surface of the PCB. Each inverted-F PCB trace antenna is electrically coupled to one of the RF transceivers and is disposed orthogonally to each other around the controller. |
| US09521672B2 |
Apparatus and method for allocating resources in a single carrier-frequency division multiple access system
Methods and apparatuses are provided for transmitting data. An index of a first resource block is obtained from a scheduling grant. A user equipment determines a value related to hopping based on a sequence generated by cell specific information. The user equipment determines a value related to mirroring based on the sequence generated by the cell specific information. The user equipment determines a second resource block for uplink transmission by the index of the first resource block, the value related to hopping, and the value related to mirroring. |
| US09521671B2 |
Method and device for performing channel access in WLAN system
One embodiment of the present invention relates to a method whereby a station (STA) which is irrelevant to a multi user (MU) group performs channel access in a wireless communication system, the method for performing channel access comprising the steps of: receiving a resource allocation frame; and checking a group indicator field comprised in the resource allocation frame, wherein the STA determines a slot start offset through the first bit of a slot allocation field for the MU group in case the group indicator field indicates the presence of the slot allocation field for the MU group in the resource allocation frame. |
| US09521667B2 |
Wireless communication base station equipment, wireless communication terminal device and search space setting method
Disclosed is wireless communication base station equipment in which CCE allocation can be flexibly performed without collision of ACK/NACK signals between a plurality of unit bands, even when wideband transmission is performed exclusively on a downlink circuit. In this equipment, an allocation unit (105) sets up mutually different search spaces for each of a plurality of downlink unit bands, with respect to wireless communication terminal devices that communicate using a plurality of downlink unit bands, and allocates resource allocation information of downlink circuit data destined for the wireless communication terminal devices to CCEs in mutually different search spaces for each of the plurality of downlink unit bands, and an ACK/NACK reception unit (119); extracts a response signal in respect of the downlink circuit data from the uplink control channel associated with the CCE to which the resource allocation information of this downlink circuit data was allocated. |
| US09521664B2 |
EPDCCH resource and quasi-co-location management in LTE
A method, an apparatus, and a computer program product for wireless communication are provided. In an aspect, the apparatus may receive a set of configurations for an EPDCCH that are tied to a set of configurations received for a PDSCH. The apparatus may then receive and process the EPDCCH based on at least one configuration from the set of configurations for the EPDCCH. In another aspect, the apparatus may determine at least a first and second resource set configured for a control channel and may determine a common set of aggregation levels for the first and second resource sets. The apparatus may further determine first rate-matching parameters for the first resource set and second rate-matching parameters for the second resource set, and may process the control channel using the common set of aggregation levels and the first and second rate-matching parameters. |
| US09521660B2 |
Base station, wireless communication method, and wireless communication system
There is provided a base station including a receiving section that receives information on a plurality of wireless terminals from a representative wireless terminal representing the plurality of wireless terminals, a control information setting section that sets control information for controlling random access by the plurality of wireless terminals based on the information on the plurality of wireless terminals received by the receiving section, and a transmitting section that transmits the control information set by the control information setting section to the plurality of wireless terminals. |
| US09521657B2 |
Method and apparatus for state/mode transitioning
A user equipment implements a method of processing indication messages, such as SCRI (signaling connection release indication) messages. For at least one RRC (radio resource control) state, if the current RRC state of the UE is a result of a previously sent indication, the UE inhibits itself from sending a further indication message. |
| US09521651B2 |
Mobile electronic device
A system and methods for controlling a mobile electronic device is disclosed. A notification in response to a prescribed event is outputted. A change in a position of the mobile electronic device is detected. A strength of the notification is reduced, when a change in the position of the mobile electronic device is detected while the notification sound is being outputted. |
| US09521648B1 |
Location estimation and wireless display device connection method and device
A location estimation method and a communication device configured to estimate location and automatically connect to one or more wireless display devices based on the determined location. The estimation of location can be based on one or more location signatures that include information of the wireless display device(s). The location estimation method can include identifying available access points (APs) and wireless display adapters, determining wireless characteristics of the available APs and wireless display adapters, calculating match scores based on the wireless characteristics of the available APs and the wireless characteristics of the available wireless display adapters, determining a location signature based on the determined match scores, and determining a location based on the location signature. The communication device can be configured to automatically connect to the wireless display device(s). The communication device can operate in a standby display mode upon the connection. |
| US09521646B2 |
Positioning location for remote radio heads (RRH) with same physical cell identity (PCI)
A method of wireless communication includes generating a unique position reference signal (PRS) for a remote radio head having a same physical cell identity (PCI) as a macro eNodeB. The unique PRS is based on a virtual cell ID and/or unique cell global identification (CGI) of the remote radio head such that the unique PRS is different from a PRS of the macro eNodeB. The PRS of the macro eNodeB is based on the PCI. The method also includes transmitting the unique PRS. |
| US09521645B1 |
Method and apparatus for filtering access points for WiFi positioning
Systems, methods, and other embodiments associated with determining a position of a device are described. According to one embodiment, a method for determining a position of a device is disclosed. The method includes detecting access points and classifying one or more of the access points as being either fixed or mobile. An access point classified as being mobile indicates that the access point is mobile. An access point classified as being fixed indicates that the access point is located at a fixed position. The method also includes determining a position of the device based, at least in part, on one or more channel powers of signals respectively received from one or more access points classified as being fixed. In this manner, the position of the device is not determined based on channel powers of signals received from access points classified as being mobile. |
| US09521630B2 |
Low power chaining
A group of low power transceiver devices may create a private wireless network. In a private communication network, each device may monitor neighboring devices and transmit a low power signal on a periodic basis. At any time, if a device breaks away from the private communication network, the device determines its location and then transmits its location to one or more devices in the group at a high transmit power level. |
| US09521628B2 |
Carrier bearing method and device, and radio remote unit
The present disclosure discloses a carrier bearing method and device, and a base station. The carrier bearing method includes: obtaining transmit power of each carrier borne on all power amplifiers in a radio remote unit after detecting that transmit power of a carrier borne on a power amplifier in the radio remote unit changes; adjusting a correspondence between the carriers and the power amplifier in the radio remote unit according to the obtained transmit power; and bearing each carrier on its corresponding power amplifier according to the adjusted correspondence. The device and base station are used to implement the above method. |
| US09521627B2 |
Method of controlling transmit power of UE in wireless communication system and apparatus for the same
Disclosed herein is a method of transmitting a signal at a user equipment (UE) in a wireless communication system. The method includes receiving a radio resource control (RRC) configuration message from a network; determining a preference value relating to power saving after receiving the RRC configuration message; and transmitting the determined preference value relating to the power saving to the network. |
| US09521624B2 |
Method and apparatus for economizing power consumption in wireless products
Various of the disclosed embodiments concern efficiency improvements in wireless products. For example, some embodiments specify profiles for regional and custom-specified operational constraints. The profiles may be retrieved from across a network or stored locally upon the device. The profiles may specify various configuration adjustments that optimize the system's performance. For example, when possible, some embodiments may allow the system to operate at a lower power level and to thereby save energy. Various factors and conditions may be assessed in some embodiments prior to adjusting the existing power configuration. |
| US09521623B2 |
Dynamic duty-cycling of processor of mobile device based on operating condition of mobile device
In one embodiment, a method includes recording a first location of a mobile device; determining, by a geographic-positioning component of the mobile device, on a periodic basis, a trajectory of the mobile device, wherein the trajectory is calculated based on present and past user locations; determining, by the geographic-positioning component, whether the trajectory is outside a geographic region defined at least in part by the first location; and if the trajectory is outside the geographic region, then transmitting, by the processors of the geographic-positioning component, a message to one or more other processors of the mobile device, the message causing one or more of the other processors to transition from a sleep state to an active state. |
| US09521621B2 |
Application-proxy support over a wireless link
Application proxy support over a wireless link between a mobile device and a wireless node is disclosed. Application proxy support is configured to conserve energy and resources and is configured to mitigate delays in a communication environment. Application proxy support can be associated with a wireless node, such as a femto cell, which can provide a coarse-grain wireless application proxy support that can utilize various criteria to buffer data and determine how long to delay delivery of data. Femto cell can provide a fine-grain wireless application proxy that runs application proxies for each mobile device for one or more applications associated with mobile device. The proxy can determine whether to buffer and forward received data to mobile device. The wireless application proxy can respond to network on behalf of mobile device. The proxy can wake up mobile device upon arrival of a significant event associated with a proxied application. |
| US09521617B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing peer-to-peer communication with network connection
A method and apparatus may be used for peer-to-peer communication. The method and apparatus may allow for network connectivity during the peer-to-peer communication session. The network connectivity may be provided via Scheduled and/or Unscheduled AP Connection times/periods. A station (STA) may be configured to negotiate access point (AP) Connection times/periods with a peer STA for a direct link which may be on a basic service set (BSS) channel or on a non-BSS channel. The STAs may communicate with the AP during the agreed AP Connection times/periods and return to the direct link for peer-to-peer communication. |
| US09521616B2 |
Apparatus and method for reducing power comsumption in multi antenna system
An apparatus and method for reducing the power consumption of a Base Station (BS) in a multi antenna system are provided. The method for reducing the power consumption of the BS includes identifying an amount of resources being in use for communication, determining whether to convert at least one Radio Frequency (RF) unit into a power saving mode considering the amount of resources, if converting at least one RF unit into the power saving mode, turning OFF a power supply of a power amplifier of at least one of at least two antenna paths constituting the at least one RF unit converted into the power saving mode, and increasing a gain of at least one antenna path turning ON a power supply such that a transmission Power Spectral Density (PSD) is not changed according to the power saving mode conversion. |
| US09521614B2 |
Power efficient method for Wi-Fi home automation
A method for automation and control of a wireless device in a WiFi environment. The method includes a wireless mobile device configured with a soft access point (softAP) transmitting probe requests to home automation devices and traditional stationary access points. The wireless mobile device periodically wakes up to scan for other services, sends a probe request, authenticates the received probe response from the another device and receives control information via the received probe response. |
| US09521611B2 |
Methods and apparatuses for cell evaluation
Methods and apparatuses for cell evaluation by a mobile terminal in a cellular network. A base station (100A, 100B) of a cell (102A, 102B) estimates values of an Expected User Throughput, EUT, for a series of candidate Reference Signal Quality, RSQ, values, and broadcasts (1:1A, 1:1B) the estimated EUT values as EUT information in the cell. The mobile terminal (104) is then able to evaluate (1:2-1:4) the cell for cell selection or re-selection based on the broadcasted EUT information. |
| US09521608B2 |
Techniques to create, update, disseminate, and use dynamic subset backhaul channel lists in a mesh network
A mesh network includes a controller, root access points (APs), and mesh APs assigned to different groups of APs. The controller creates for each group a distinct subset channel list of backhaul channels used by root APs of the group that are connected to the controller. The controller updates, for each group, the subset channel list as root APs assigned to the group connect with and disconnect from the controller. The controller sends, for each group, the subset channel list to the mesh APs assigned to the group that are connected with the controller through respective root APs when the subset channel list is created and updated. |
| US09521604B2 |
User terminal, radio base station and radio communication method
In order to transmit a paging to a user terminal with high quality, transmit a CSI-RS effectively and perform UL HARQ efficiently in HetNet, the present invention provides a radio communication method having the steps of: a micro base station which is arranged in a macro cell and forms a smaller micro cell than the macro cell, transmitting, to a user terminal, a signal having a CSI-RS subframe including a CSI-RS and a paging subframe including modification notification information indicating modification in system information and a control signal indicating not to measure a CSI-RS when the CSI-RS subframe and the paging subframe collide with each other; and the user terminal determining a CSI-RS subframe to measure the CSI-RS based on the control signal when the CSI-RS subframe and the paging subframe collide with each other. |
| US09521602B2 |
Method and apparatus for management of high frequency communications in a low frequency wireless network
Wireless communication systems and methods are described where communication is established with a user device at a low frequency. Coarse channel information, such as pathloss, power delay profile, and multipath direction information, regarding the communication between a wireless network device and the user device at the low frequency may then be used to establish communication with the user device at a high frequency. |
| US09521591B2 |
Communication system for LTE network
When a voice call is made from or received by UE (100) that is present in both 3G femto area (101) and LTE area (103), line switching for making a voice call or receiving a voice call is performed from MME (112) to P-CSCF (108) by using a predetermined protocol. |
| US09521589B2 |
Wi-Fi direct service method using NFC and device therefor
The present invention relates to a wireless communication system and more particularly, to a method for performing connection setting for Wi-Fi direct services communication and a device therefor, the method comprising a step of performing device discovery between two devices through an NFC touch. |
| US09521588B2 |
Establishing data strategy
An apparatus and method for adjusting a data strategy in a terminal is provided. A connection is made to a hotspot provider. A network type used by the provider is identified and a data strategy is adjusted based at least partially on the network type. |
| US09521585B2 |
Method and apparatus for dynamic adjustment of uplink transmission time
Systems and methods for dynamically adjusting the transmission time interval (TTI) for a communications system are presented. The described aspects provide for dynamically adjusting the TTI in a communication session between a base station or nodeB and a wireless device or user equipment between a shorter TTI, which can provide increased data throughput and lower power consumption, and a longer TTI, which can provide more rugged communication link connections. By dynamically adjusting the TTI, the communications link can be optimized for the given communication channel conditions. Determinations, based on indicia related to the communications system conditions, can be employed in dynamic TTI adjustment. These determinations can be formed centrally at the Radio Network Controller (RNC), at the RNC supplemented with user equipment (UE) available information, or formed in a distributed manner between the RNC and UE across a communications system. |
| US09521584B2 |
Method and apparatus for managing data flow through a mesh network
Traffic streams through mesh points in a mesh network are managed. Data arriving at the mesh point are aggregated in packet queues. The packet queues segregate arriving data by the data's Quality of Service (QoS) requirement. An appropriate communication channel is selected. The communication channel is accessed through a contention access schema. An M-Request-To-Send (MRTS) message is sent to potential receiving mesh points with receiving mesh points responding with an M-Clear-to-Send (MCTS) message. Data from the packet queues is transmitted to the next mesh point. A mesh point power save mode allows battery operated mesh points to sleep preserving power. |
| US09521580B1 |
Reduction of interference potential between a cell tower and an electromagnetic radiation source
Methods and systems are provided for reducing the potential of interference between a cell tower and a neighboring EMR source. At a base station, such as an eNodeB, it is determined that a sector of the cell tower has the potential for interference with the EMR source based on, for instance, monitoring of network parameters, a computation of the sector's azimuth, and a distance between the sector and the EMR source. Time intervals are computed corresponding to when the EMR source emits EMR in a direction of the sector of the base station, Uplink and downlink transmissions to and from the sector of the cell tower are ceased during the computed time intervals. |
| US09521573B2 |
Method of anonymously reporting minimization of drive test measurements
The present invention provides a method of anonymously reporting minimization of drive test (MDT) measurements. According to the method, a mobility management entity (MME) obtains MDT data anonymity configuration which indicates whether MDT measurements are to be reported anonymously at a type allocation code (TAC) level; sends a TAC of a UE to a trace collection entity (TCE) if the MDT data anonymity configuration indicates MDT measurements are to be reported anonymously at the TAC level; sends an international mobile subscriber identification (IMSI) or an international mobile equipment identity and software version (IMEISV) of the UE to the TCE if the MDT data anonymity configuration indicates other information, e.g. Trace, is adopted for anonymously reporting MDT measurements. The present invention enables an MME to send different identities of a UE to the TCE according to different requirements for anonymity to implement anonymous reporting of MDT measurements. |
| US09521570B2 |
Communication control method, user equipment, network server, and system
A communication control method, including receiving, by a first user equipment, a first message sent by a second user equipment; acquiring receive power of the first message; acquiring power parameter information of the second user equipment; obtaining a path loss value according to the power parameter information of the second user equipment and the receive power of the first message; and determining, according to the path loss value, whether direct communication is allowed between the first user equipment and the second user equipment. The embodiments of the present invention further provide a corresponding user equipment and system. According to the method, user equipment, and system in the embodiments of the present invention, control on direct communication between user equipment can be implemented. |
| US09521569B2 |
Fault diagnosis method and apparatus
Embodiments of the present invention provide a fault diagnosis method and apparatus. A service in the fault diagnosis method relates to at least one user, and the fault diagnosis method includes: determining whether a terminal of each user allows performing fault diagnosis for the service; and performing fault diagnosis for the service if the terminal of each user allows performing fault diagnosis for the service. In the embodiments of the present invention, fault diagnosis for the user related service cannot be performed unless allowed by a user terminal or allowed by both the user terminal and a system side. Thereby, it is ensured that fault diagnosis is performed in a secure environment, which better complies with security laws and regulations. |
| US09521567B2 |
Method for performing measurement of terminal in wireless communication system and apparatus therefor
The present invention relates to a method for enabling a terminal to perform a measurement in a wireless communication system. More specifically, the present invention comprises the steps of: receiving information related to a specific cell group as a measuring target; determining a representative value by performing the measurement for the specific cell group according to the received information; and performing radio resource management or radio link monitoring on the basis of the representative value, wherein the specific cell group is configured to enable a virtual cell identifier to comprise a plurality of equally set cells. |
| US09521565B2 |
Declaring radio link failure based on target-specific threshold
The number of handover-related failures that occur in a communication system may be reduced by taking target access point conditions into account when declaring radio link failure and/or by delaying certain handover operations. In some aspects, criteria for radio link failure detection and access terminal-controlled mobility may take into account access point parameters related to neighboring cells that may be available as mobility targets. For example, filtering mechanisms for detecting radio link failure based on radio layer problem reports may also take into account the availability of various neighbor access points and their measured signal strengths. In addition, a handover command may be sent earlier than in conventional systems (e.g., the handover command may be sent even though the target access point is weaker than the source access point) and include an indication that instructs the access terminal to delay handover until a specified condition is met. For example, handover may be delayed until the target access point becomes stronger than the source access point. |
| US09521561B2 |
UE-assisted network optimization methods
A UE or mobile entity in a wireless communication may assist network optimization by determining a location uncovered by a wireless network, generate a coverage hole detected message if one or more conditions associated with the uncovered location are satisfied, and determining a time to transmit the coverage hole detected message to a covered wireless network. The covered network may act on the message to add covered in a second network so that the second network covers the UE. In other aspects, a UE or mobile entity may detect cell congestion in a first cell and assist the network in offloading congestion from the congested cell. In other aspects, a UE or mobile entity may detect backhaul congestion on a first cell, and assist in offloading backhaul communication for the first cell via a second cell. |
| US09521560B2 |
Multicell beamforming system and methods for OFDMA small-cell networks
Disclosed are systems, methods and structures that provide improved spatial reuse of spectral resources in small-cell wireless networks including WiMAX, LTE, LTE-Advanced, etc. Advantageously, the systems and method disclosed while leveraging beamforming for spatial reuse across small cells also decouple it from per-frame scheduling at a small cell base station thereby allowing for beam selections to be computed with a granularity measured in seconds. In realizing these advantages, systems, methods and structures disclosed integrate beam selection with client association. |
| US09521558B2 |
Computing system with coordination mechanism and method of operation thereof
A computing system includes: an inter-device interface configured to communicate a coordination report for representing a receiver signal associated with an interference-aware receiver capable of recognizing an interference signal from an interference node device and included in the receiver signal; a communication unit, coupled to the inter-device interface, configured to: generate a rate coordination profile based on the coordination report for coordinating the interference signal with the interference node device, and generate a beam-forming mechanism based on the rate coordination profile for communicating a serving signal coordinated with the interference signal. |
| US09521551B2 |
Methods and systems for persistent cross-application mobile device identification
Systems and methods are provided for persistent cross-application mobile device identification. A mobile device may have a plurality of sandboxes in memory containing applications. The mobile device may have a shared storage which may be accessible by applications from different sandboxes. A storage location identifier may be used to access information in shared storage. A universal device identifier may be stored in the shared storage to identify the mobile device and may be accessible by multiple applications and updates to applications. The universal device identifier may be used to track the mobile device for advertising, fraud detection, reputation tracking, or other purposes. |
| US09521550B2 |
Remote configuration of digital video surveillance system elements
A method and system are provided for configuring or provisioning a digital video surveillance system (DVSS) element, such as a digital video recorder (DVR). Implementations described herein use a scannable device identifier, such as a bar code or a quick response (QR) code, to uniquely identify a DVSS element. Rather than relying on a technician connecting a laptop to the DVSS element using a direct wired connection, or on the availability of network connectivity, the bar code of the DVSS element is scanned, optionally a network name is assigned and a network password is calculated based on the scannable device identifier. A direct wireless connection is established between a mobile communications device and a wireless transceiver at the DVR. An authentication screen is displayed to enable the configuration connection and provide access to configuration functions for configuring or provisioning the DVSS element. |
| US09521546B2 |
Secure RF communication method, terminal and system
A method, terminal and secure RF communication system are provided. The method for radio frequency secure communication of the invention comprises: generating magnetic channel data, and transmitting the magnetic channel data via a magnetic channel; establishing a radio frequency link with a peer device which feeds back a response information of the magnetic channel data; generating first radio frequency data, encrypting the first radio frequency data using the magnetic channel data, and transmitting the encrypted first radio frequency data to the peer device via the radio frequency link; and/or receiving encrypted second radio frequency data transmitted by the peer device via the radio frequency link, and decrypting the encrypted second radio frequency data using the magnetic channel data. By the above technical solution, the invention avoids the risk that a preset key is intercepted or decrypted, and enhances the security of the radio frequency link data exchanging process. |
| US09521544B2 |
Availability of modes of communication
A communication network is informed of the availability of MIMO mode of communication of user equipment by receiving a transmitted (305) indicator of the availability of MIMO mode of communication of a user equipment via a feedback channel between the user equipment and a node of a communication network. |
| US09521540B2 |
Method of identifying visited public land mobile network and related communication device
A method of identifying a visited public land mobile network (VPLMN) comprises a proximity service (ProSe) function in a home PLMN (HPLMN) of an announcing user equipment (UE) receiving a match report message comprising a ProSe Application Code from a ProSe function in a HPLMN of a monitoring UE; and the ProSe function in the HPLMN of the announcing UE transmitting a match response message comprising a ProSe Application ID Name of the ProSe Application Code and a PLMN ID of a VPLMN registered by the announcing UE to the ProSe function in the HPLMN of the monitoring UE to respond to the match report message. |
| US09521539B2 |
System and method for small cell gateway core network selection in a multi-operator core network environment
An example method is provided in one example embodiment and includes receiving a first communication from a user equipment (UE) for a subscriber associated with the first UE to a small cell network, wherein a plurality core networks (CNs) share resources for the small cell network; selecting a first CN from the plurality of CNs to provide services to the first subscriber via the small cell network based, at least in part, on a first Mobile Country Code (MCC) and a first Mobile Network Code (MNC) for the first subscriber; and storing, in at least one memory element, at least one association of the MCC and the MNC to the CN for use in subsequent requests from other UEs for subscribers to attach to the small cell network. |
| US09521536B2 |
Device discovery of second user equipments in a second network for D2D communication
According to a first aspect of embodiments herein, a method in a first network node for handling device discovery of second user equipments in a second network for Device-to-Device (D2D) communication is provided. The network node is comprised in a first network. The first network node obtains information from a second network node within the second network. The information relates to resources for sending device discovery beacon signals in a second network. The first network node sends the obtained information to a first user equipment served by the first network node. The obtained information relates to said resources for sending device discovery beacon signals in the second network. The information enables the first user equipment to discover beacon signals from the second user equipments in the second network and/or to send beacon signals to be discovered by the second user equipments in the second network. |
| US09521533B2 |
Systems and methods for providing emergency messages to a mobile device
The present invention is directed to systems and methods for providing emergency messages to a mobile device. In an exemplary embodiment, a system for communicating emergency messages is provided comprising a mobile device comprising an emergency message application and a personal emergency message transceiver, an emergency message control center, wherein the emergency message application is enabled to receive a plurality of emergency messages generated by the emergency message control center. |
| US09521529B1 |
Automated short message formatting commanded by embedded specialty codes
A mobile communication device. The mobile communication device comprises a long-range radio transceiver, a processor, a memory, an input device, and an application, stored in the memory. When executed by the processor the application receives input from the input device, wherein the input comprises text symbols having an initial format and at least one specialty code, creates a short message comprising the text symbols formatted in a transmission format based on a formatting command identified by the at least one specialty code, wherein the transmission format is different from the initial format, and transmits the short message via the long-range radio transceiver. |
| US09521528B1 |
Non-duplication of message delivery in a short message service
Sending short message service (SMS) messages and receiving a response report based at least in part on the sent SMS message, even if a communicative connection with the mobile communications network had been severed, so that duplication of the SMS message is avoided is disclosed. In this case, a communicative connection may be re-established and used to receive an acknowledgment from the mobile communications network and subsequently send another acknowledgement to the mobile communications network. The UE may also be configured to send an information element to the one or more elements of the mobile communications network to indicate that a communicative connection with the network is to remain established so that acknowledgements may be reconciled between the UE and the network. Additionally, the mobile communications network may be configured to transmit the SMS message only after receiving the acknowledgement from the UE, to avoid sending duplicate SMS messages. |
| US09521521B2 |
Systems, methods, and apparatus for geolocation platform mechanics
Systems, apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture provide for geolocating a user and/or a user device, based on one or more location data sources. Some embodiments may include use of a user authentication process (e.g., a two-factor authentication service) to improve confidence in the determined location of a user device. In one embodiment, a user and/or a user device may be allowed or denied access to restricted access content based on the determined location of the device. |
| US09521520B2 |
Distributed-input OFDM angle-of-arrival scheme for location determination
A particular first wireless device having a plurality of antennas and that is part of a group of a plurality of first wireless devices, transmits to a second wireless device (whose location is to be determined) a packet across the plurality of antennas of the particular first wireless device simultaneously with a plurality of packets transmitted by a corresponding one of other first wireless devices in the group. The packet transmitted by the particular first wireless device uses a subset of a set of subcarriers available for use in the packet such that substantially the entire set of subcarriers are used in the aggregate across the plurality of packets simultaneously transmitted by the plurality of first wireless devices in the group to the second wireless device. The simultaneous reception of the plurality of packets at the second wireless device enables the second wireless device to determine its location. |
| US09521518B1 |
Method, system, and computer-readable recording medium for object location tracking
A method, a system, and a computer-readable recording medium for object location tracking are provided. The system includes a server, at least one case, multiple objects, and a mobile electronic device. The method is adapted to the mobile electronic device and includes the following steps: transmitting a lookup request for a target object to the server; when obtaining location information of the target object from the server, transmitting a search request to the server, where the target object is located in a target case; in response to a distance between the mobile electronic device and a target case detected by a distance sensor of the target case, displaying a prompt signal corresponding to a first prompt signal signaled by a case prompt device of the target case; and in response to the distance determined by the server to be less than a distance threshold, displaying a prompt object. |
| US09521517B2 |
Utilizing information about mobile communication devices with respect to an area of interest
A method for establishing an approximate number of persons in an area of interest comprises providing a request to one or more communications providers that cover an area of interest. The request is for a listing of any mobile communication devices located within the area of interest. The listing of any mobile communication devices located within the area of interest is utilized to establish an approximate number of persons in the area of interest. In response to receipt of information that indicates a mobile communication device on the listing has departed the area of interest, the listing is updated to show the mobile communication device is clear of the area of interest. |
| US09521515B2 |
Content request by location
A method of obtaining media content of an event, comprising: identifying a real-life event and, a time of said real-life event a geographic location of the real-life event; identifying a subset of a plurality of client terminals of users located in proximity to the geographic location of the real-life event at said time of said real-life event; sending a message to the subset of client terminals containing a request to acquire media content documenting the real-life event; and receiving at least one media content item documenting the real-life event from at least one client terminal of the subset of client terminals, the at least one media content item acquired by at least one user of the users using the at least one client terminal in response to the message. |
| US09521503B2 |
Audio player with bluetooth function and audio playing method thereof
An audio player with a Bluetooth function and an audio playing method thereof are provided. The audio player includes a master Bluetooth speaker and a plurality of slave Bluetooth speakers. The master Bluetooth speaker receives and decodes a compressed digital audio to generate a decoded time. The slave Bluetooth speakers receive and decode the compressed digital audio to generate another decoded time. After the slave Bluetooth speakers receive the decoded time from master Bluetooth speaker and determine a time difference between the master Bluetooth speaker and the slave Bluetooth speakers, the slave Bluetooth speakers adjust timing for playing an audio from each of the slave Bluetooth speakers. Therefore, the timing for playing the audio from each of the slave Bluetooth speakers can synchronize timing for playing audio from the master Bluetooth speaker. |
| US09521502B2 |
Method for determining a stereo signal
A method for determining an output stereo signal comprising determining a first differential signal and determining a second differential signal; determining a first power spectrum based on the first differential signal and determining a second power spectrum based on the second differential signal; determining a first weighting function and a second weighting function as a function of the first power spectrum and the second power spectrum; and filtering a first signal, which represents a first combination of the first input audio channel signal and the second input audio channel signal, and filtering a second signal, which represents a second combination of the first input audio channel signal and the second input audio channel signal. |
| US09521498B2 |
Assembling method for micro-loudspeaker assembly
Provided is an assembling method for a micro-loudspeaker assembly. The method comprises the steps of: (a) preparing a chuck ring material plate and a vibrating diaphragm material plate, and stamping a number of chuck ring inner holes in the chuck ring material plate; (b) coating an adhesive on the upper surface of the chuck ring material plate stamped with the chuck ring inner holes; (c) bonding the vibrating diaphragm material plate to the upper surface of the chuck ring material plate coated with an adhesive; (d) downwards stamping the part of the vibrating diaphragm material plate corresponding to the chuck ring inner holes into the central part of a vibrating diaphragm; and (e) stamping to form the outer edge of the assembly around the chuck ring inner holes, and removing the assembly from the material plate. |
| US09521495B2 |
CIC hearing aid seal and method of manufacturing the same
A method of manufacturing an acoustic seal for a CIC hearing aid has the steps of: embedding sacrificial particles of 50 μm to 250 μm into a silicone rubber matrix, the concentration and size of the sacrificial particles being selected to achieve a porosity of at least 40%; molding the silicone rubber matrix using a mold and curing the silicone rubber matrix; removing the sacrificial particles from the silicone rubber matrix by leaching out the sacrificial particles in a solvent; and drying the silicone rubber matrix. The seal is to surround at least part of the hearing aid and by selection of the size and/or concentration and/or the distribution of the sacrificial particles, to provide for an acoustic attenuation of at least 20 dB in a frequency range between 200 Hz and 6 kHz, with a compliance of at least 50 mm/N when the hearing aid is inserted into the ear canal. |
| US09521494B2 |
Antenna device for hearing instruments and a hearing instrument
An antenna system is provided for hearing instruments to be worn in the auditory canal. A hearing instrument has a data transmission system improved in respect of transmission bandwidth with no increase or only an insignificant increase in space and energy requirement. The antenna system has an antenna with a preferred send and receive spatial direction, and a hearing instrument component which emits noise radiation predominantly in a noise radiation spatial direction. The antenna and the hearing instrument component are disposed so that the send and receive spatial direction and the noise radiation spatial direction are oriented transverse to one another such that a coupling-in of noise radiation into the antenna is reduced. The reduction of the noise couplings into the antenna make possible a higher send and receive bandwidth, with the installation volume and energy requirement remaining the same. The hearing instrument component is a receiver. |
| US09521493B2 |
Transducer impedance measurement for hearing aid
A hearing aid is disclosed, which, in a test mode, can determine the impedance of the transducer that stimulates the anatomy of the patient. Impedance may be determined by simultaneous determination of the current flowing through the transducer and the voltage across the transducer. In some cases, the output amplifier of the hearing aid includes two outputs, with one being a scaled and/or summed replica of the other. The amplifier is driven with a periodic signal with a particular frequency and a known peak voltage. The periodic signal may be sinusoidal. The primary output of the amplifier is electrically connected to the transducer, with a known current given by the peak input current and a known gain of the amplifier. The voltage from the secondary output of the amplifier is measured. The impedance is calculated by dividing the measured voltage from the secondary output of the amplifier by the known current. |
| US09521490B2 |
Speaker diaphragm and production method for speaker diaphragm
A diaphragm can be obtained which exhibits large internal loss and Young's modulus and which can be produced efficiently. A speaker diaphragm 1 comprises at least one layer 1A formed by molding a component member configured by a fiber and a tangled fiber body of a synthetic fiber. The synthetic fiber is a polyvinyl alcohol fiber having boron. |
| US09521487B2 |
Calibration adjustment based on barrier
Embodiments described herein involve configuring a playback device based on the detection of a barrier in proximity to the playback device. An example implementation may involve configuring the playback device for audio output in a given environment by calibrating the playback device to at least partially offset acoustic effects of the given environment. After the playback device is configured for audio output, the playback device may detect a barrier within proximity of the playback device by detecting a change in the acoustic effects of the given environment. In response to detecting the barrier within proximity of the playback device, the playback device may adjust the calibration. |
| US09521485B2 |
Voltage supply circuit included in terminal equipment
A voltage supply circuit included in an audio signal processing device includes a control unit for controlling a signal output from a terminal equipment; a power supply unit for outputting voltage to an earphone device according to a control signal of the control unit; and a variable circuit unit connected to the power supply unit to convert the voltage output from the power supply unit and transmit the converted voltage to the earphone device. |
| US09521481B2 |
Speaker porting around backlit keyboard
A system for porting a speaker through a keyboard module and a backlight module is provided. The system includes an enclosure, the enclosure configured to mount the keyboard module, the backlight module, and the speaker thereto, wherein the speaker is disposed under a portion of the keyboard module and the backlight module. The system also includes a port path for porting the speaker through the keyboard module and the backlight module, the port path extending from the speaker to an outer surface of the keyboard module, wherein a first portion of the port path includes a passage in the enclosure, the passage disposed adjacent to an edge of the keyboard module and the backlight module, and wherein a second portion of the port path includes a periphery of a key of the keyboard module. |
| US09521476B2 |
Custom sound box
A sound box comprises a cover assembly, interior box assembly, compartment assembly, sound module assembly and frame assembly. The interior box assembly includes a receptacle for holding an item. A light-activated sound module contained within the frame in inside a compartment attached to the cover assembly top. The sound module comprises a sound chip, light sensor, speaker and power source in electrical communication. A flap containing a magnetic closure interacts magnetically with an interior box wall to close the sound box. The box is opened by lifting a flap and raising the top, allowing light to enter the light sensor after entering an opening in a compartment containing the sound module, causing the sound module to play back the sound recorded thereon. The sound can range from animal and/or environmental sounds, music, congratulatory messages, other types of voice recordings, bells, whistles and the like. |
| US09521475B2 |
Microphone module and electronic device having the same
An electronic device includes a housing having a top wall, and a microphone module mounted in the housing. The microphone module includes a mounting seat having two oppositely spaced-apart upright suspension surfaces extending transversely from the top wall. A buffer member includes a main body disposed between and spaced apart from the suspension surfaces, and two suspension bumps protruding from the main body toward and abutting respectively and tightly against the suspension surfaces. The main body has an inner portion defining an accommodating space. A microphone body is disposed in the accommodating space. |
| US09521469B2 |
Carriage of quality information of content in media formats
A method for managing quality information for dynamic adaption in content delivery, wherein the method comprises selecting a granularity level for an encoded media data, computing a plurality of quality metrics for the encoded media data at the selected granularity level, wherein the quality metrics are measures of coding quality of the encoded media data, generating a quality track comprising the plurality of quality metrics, and storing the quality track on a media content server separate from other tracks that are associated with the encoded media data. Also disclosed is a network device comprising a processor configured to select a granularity level for an encoded media data, and compute a plurality of quality metrics that indicate coding quality of the encoded media data at the selected granularity level, and a transmitter coupled to the processor and configured to send the quality track towards a user of the media data. |
| US09521468B2 |
Methods and apparatus to present supplemental media on a second screen
Methods and apparatus to present supplemental media on a second screen are disclosed. An example method includes establishing a connection between a digital media device and a computing device based on information identifying the computing device and, in response to establishing the connection, enabling the digital media device to skip a first type of media during a time-shifted presentation of media. The skipping is responsive to a command from a remote control device different than the computing device. |
| US09521467B2 |
Method and apparatus for program information exchange and communications system using a program comment instruction
Relating to the field of communications, a method and an apparatus for program information exchange and a communications system provided in embodiments of the present invention can enable a user to, by using a user equipment, make a comment on a program currently being watched without adding an external input device. The method for program information exchange in the embodiment includes: obtaining a program comment instruction; extracting information about a current program from a pre-established database according to the program comment instruction; sending, if the information includes a program comment address, the program comment address to a user equipment. |
| US09521461B2 |
Series reminders and series recording from an interactive television program guide
An interactive television program guide system with program series reminder and recording capabilities is provided. The system allows a user to set a reminder or schedule a recording for a single episode or for each episode of a program series. In addition, other options may be provided that allow the user to determine, for example, whether to schedule reminders/recordings for episodes on all channels on which the program airs or only on a selected channels, whether to schedule reminders/recordings for all episodes including reruns or only new episodes, whether to schedule reminders/recordings for network or syndicated episodes, and whether to schedule reminders/recordings for episodes on all days or only on selected days of the week. Before the scheduled broadcast time of each episode of each selected program series, the system sends a reminder message to the user that reminds the user of the program episode or sends a record command to a videocassette recorder to initiate recording of the episode. The system allows a user to view a list of all currently requested program reminders and scheduled program recordings. The user may update, change, or cancel any entry in either list or the system may automatically update the lists to match new broadcast schedule information. If the user sets a reminder or schedules a recording that conflicts with an existing reminder or recording, the system may inform the user of the conflict and allow the user to resolve the conflict or the system may resolve the conflict. |
| US09521460B2 |
Apparatus, systems and methods to communicate received commands from a receiving device to a mobile device
A receiving device embodiment receives a user command from an external source. The user command is directed to a remote target destination. A first interactive programming command communicator embodiment generates a mobile device command from the received user command, and communicates the mobile device command to a mobile device. A second interactive programming command communicator embodiment receives the mobile device command from the receiving device. A target destination is identified from information in the mobile device command, and information from the mobile device command is communicated to the target destination. |
| US09521459B2 |
Method and system for delivering video content from multiple platforms to subscribers
An integrated content delivery interface enables a user to access content from a multi-channel service provider (such as a cable television service) and over-the-top sources. The system displays a set of cable channels and over-the-top channels based on a combination of the user's subscription status for the various services, personalization criteria, and device type. The system may provide the user with a playlist of available videos for each channel. For videos from over-the-top sources, when a user selects the video for on-demand play the user's device will directly access the video as served by the over-the-top source. Before including any video in the playlist, the system will ensure that the video is available to the user based on subscription status and/or device type, and it will ensure that the over-the-top source serves the video in a format that is compatible with the user's device. |
| US09521458B2 |
IPTV targeted messages
A network device executes a method to provide targeted messages to a subscriber of Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) when a request of the subscriber to access an IPTV channel is denied. The method includes receiving the request of the subscriber from a customer premise equipment (CPE) to access a first multicast stream, where the first multicast stream is a multicast stream for an IPTV channel. The method further includes checking whether the request to access the first multicast stream should be allowed or denied, determining a reason for denial in response to determining that the request should be denied, determining a second multicast stream that corresponds to the reason for denial, sending a join message to a multicast source to receive the second multicast stream, and forwarding the second multicast stream to the CPE. |
| US09521455B1 |
Methods and systems for playing media
Methods and systems are described for a media guidance application that enables a user to patch corrupted media. In particular, the media guidance application place-shifts a frame of a second version of the media corresponding to a corrupted portion of the media from a remote location and displays the place-shifted data at the local device. |
| US09521454B2 |
Associating playback devices with playback queues
In an example implementation, a first playback device associates with a first playback queue that identifies items for playback by the first playback device. The first playback device receives an instruction to enter a playback group with a second playback device which is associated with a second playback queue that identifies one or more items for playback by the second playback device. The first playback device enters the playback group with the second playback device. The first playback device is configured to play items from the second playback queue in synchrony with the second playback device while in the playback group. The first playback device receives an instruction to leave the playback group and leaves the playback group. Leaving the playback group involves automatically associating the first playback device with a third playback queue that identifies items for playback by the first playback device. |
| US09521452B2 |
System and method for pre-caching a first portion of a video file on a media device
A method includes determining an available bandwidth of a data interface connected to a media device. The method includes receiving a first portion of each of a plurality of video files and storing the first portion of each of the plurality of video files in a memory. A size of the memory to store each first portion is determined based on a pre-cache file size associated with a video file of the plurality of video files. The pre-cache file size is based on the available bandwidth. The method further includes, in response to detecting a change in the available bandwidth, adjusting the pre-cache file size associated with the video file, where the pre-cache file size decreases when the available bandwidth increases to a second available bandwidth. |
| US09521447B2 |
Vehicular video processing device and vehicular video processing system
A vehicular video processing device includes a clock output unit and an output unit. A video signal output from an external video device via a video signal receiving unit and having predetermined format and first bit width is inputted to the vehicular video processing device together with a first clock signal. The clock output unit outputs a second clock signal having a frequency acquired by multiplying first clock signal frequency by a predetermined multiplier factor. The output unit converts the video signal having the first bit width to a video signal having a second bit width smaller than the first bit width according to the multiplier factor, and outputs the converted video signal together with the second clock signal. With above-described device, image processing can be properly performed to a video signal having a format difficult to be directly input or output. |
| US09521444B2 |
Information providing apparatus, information providing method, and information providing system
An information providing apparatus includes: an inputter that obtains log information and personal information corresponding thereto; a tentative ID giver that gives each tentative ID to the personal information at each predetermined timing; a first storage that stores correspondence-relationship information indicating a correspondence relationship between the personal information and the each tentative ID; a receiver that receives a request for outputting information including a requested tentative ID identified by a current tentative ID given and the one past timing when the requested ID was given; an information processor that determines, in accordance with the request, link-relationship information indicating a correspondence relationship between the requested tentative ID and the current tentative ID; a second storage that stores the determined link-relationship information; and an outputter that outputs first information including the requested tentative ID or second information indicating that first-information outputting is not permitted, based on the stored link-relationship information. |
| US09521442B2 |
Digital transport adapter
One or more computing devices may be configured to identify information corresponding to a program change request associated with a multi-program data transmission. The information may comprise at least a link to a desired program within the multi-program data transmission. The one or more computing devices may communicate the link to the desired program to a client device over a specified time period. After the time period, the one or more computing devices may communicate the desired program to the client device using a single program data transmission. The single program data transmission may be derived from the multi-program data transmission. |
| US09521439B1 |
Systems and methods for correlating multiple TCP sessions for a video transfer
User equipments can download a video file by instantiating multiple video requests, each request specifying different parts of the video file. If each video request initiates a separate transmission control protocol (TCP) session, which is the case with an hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP) partial get request, then a network device in a communications network would be oblivious of contextual information, which indicates that the TCP sessions download different portions of the same video file. This disclosure provides systems and methods for correlating multiple TCP sessions so that a network device in a communications network can be aware of the contextual information. |
| US09521434B2 |
Internal bit depth increase in video coding
In an example aspects of this disclosure generally relate to a method of coding video data that includes determining a first bit depth for outputting video data and a second bit depth for coding the video data, wherein the first bit depth is less than the second bit depth. The method also includes determining whether the video data will be used as reference data when coding other video data. The method also includes storing, based on the determination, the video data at the first bit depth when the video data is not used as reference data, and the video data at the second bit depth when the video data is used as reference data. |
| US09521432B2 |
Correction of over-the-air signals
Correction of errors within over-the-air signaling is contemplated. The error correction may include correcting over-the-air signaling used to facilitate transmitting content, broadcast television, etc. according to error correction data transmitted separately from the over-the-air signaling. A receiver may be configured to process the over-the-air signaling according to the error correction data so as to facilitate the contemplated error correction. |
| US09521421B2 |
Video decoding method based on hierarchical coded block pattern information
A method and apparatus for decoding video and a method and apparatus for encoding video are provided. The method for decoding video includes: receiving and parsing a bitstream of encoded video; extracting, from the bitstream, encoded image data of a current picture assigned to a maximum coding unit of the current picture, information regarding a coded depth of the maximum coding unit, information regarding an encoding mode, and coding unit pattern information indicating whether texture information of the maximum coding units has been encoded; and decoding the encoded image data for the maximum coding unit, based on the information regarding the coded depth of the maximum coding unit, the information regarding the encoding mode, and the coding unit pattern information. |
| US09521412B2 |
Method and device for determining residual data for encoding or decoding at least part of an image
A method and device for determining residual data for encoding at least part of an image of an enhancement layer of video data, the video data including the enhancement layer and a base layer, the enhancement layer being composed of processing blocks and the base layer being composed of elementary units each having associated residual data, the method comprising for a processing block of the enhancement layer determining, based on at least the number of elementary units of the base layer spatially corresponding, at least partially, to the processing block, whether or not to use residual data of one or more of said spatially corresponding elementary units of the base layer for prediction of the processing block. |
| US09521411B2 |
Method and apparatus for encoder assisted-frame rate up conversion (EA-FRUC) for video compression
An Encoder Assisted Frame Rate Up Conversion (EA-FRUC) system that utilizes video coding and pre-processing operations at the video encoder to exploit the FRUC processing that will occur in the decoder in order to improve compression efficiency and reconstructed video quality is disclosed. One operation of the EA-FRUC system involves determining whether to encode a frame in a sequence of frames of a video content by determining a spatial activity in a frame of the sequence of frames; determining a temporal activity in the frame; determining a spatio-temporal activity in the frame based on the determined spatial activity and the determined temporal activity; determining a level of a redundancy in the source frame based on at least one of the determined spatial activity, the determined temporal activity, and the determined spatio-temporal activity; and, encoding the non-redundant information in the frame if the determined redundancy is within predetermined thresholds. |
| US09521410B2 |
Quantization parameter (QP) coding in video coding
A method of coding delta quantization parameter values is described. In one example a video decoder may receive a delta quantization parameter (dQP) value for a current quantization block of video data, wherein the dQP value is received whether or not there are non-zero transform coefficients in the current quantization block. In another example, a video decoder may receive the dQP value for the current quantization block of video data only in the case that the QP Predictor for the current quantization block has a value of zero, and infer the dQP value to be zero in the case that the QP Predictor for the current quantization block has a non-zero value, and there are no non-zero transform coefficients in the current quantization block. |
| US09521407B2 |
Method and device for coding and decoding images
A method and a device for coding and decoding images are disclosed. The method for coding images includes: determining a second length according to a direction of a division line, a scale value, and a position parameter value; determining a division mode of the image block according to the direction of the division line, a first length, the second length, and the scale value; coding the image block according to the division mode of the image block; and coding a direction parameter value, the scale value, and the position parameter value. With the technical solution provided in the embodiments of the present invention, the determining of the division mode of the image block on the image coder is simplified. |
| US09521403B2 |
Display device and electronic apparatus
A display device includes: an image display means for displaying left-eye images and right-eye images alternately; a light-shielding means for generating an effect of binocular parallax in images displayed by the image display means; and a detection means for detecting a position of an observer, wherein the light-shielding means includes an image transmitting portion through which images of the image display means are transmitted and an image non-transmitting portion through which images are not transmitted, which moves a position of the image transmitting portion by ½, ¼ or ⅛ of a light-shielding portion pitch prescribed by an arrangement interval of the image transmitting portion based on a detected result of the detection means. |
| US09521402B2 |
Stereoscopic display device and manufacturing method thereof
The present invention discloses a stereoscopic display device and a manufacturing method thereof, which comprises: the display panel comprises a first row sub-pixel and a second row sub-pixel adjacently disposed in the column direction, the display control unit acquires a plurality of viewpoint images and divides the plurality viewpoint images into a first group viewpoint image and a second group viewpoint image, the display control unit further controls the first row sub-pixel to periodically display the content of each viewpoint image in the first group viewpoint image, and controls the second row sub-pixel to periodically display the content of each viewpoint image in the second group viewpoint image; the grating lens comprises a first row lens unit and a second row lens unit adjacently disposed in the column direction, which respectively cover on the first row sub-pixel and the second sub-pixel, the lens unit of the first row lens unit and the lens unit of the second row lens unit are staggered from each other along the row direction, and the staggered amount is less than one sub-pixel cycle, which can eliminate the moiré and can solve the crosstalk between each adjacent pixel unit. Through the above way, the present invention can eliminate the moiré and can solve the crosstalk between each adjacent pixel unit. |
| US09521401B2 |
Video display apparatus
Every frame regarding an input video signal is changed into a sequence of subframes. Subframe data is generated from the input video signal while first and second tables are alternately used. The first and second tables are designed so that a number of subframes assigned a pixel activated state increases each time a drive gradation related to the input video signal increases by 1. According to the first table, a subframe newly assigned the pixel activated state is one following the subframe or subframes which have already been assigned the pixel activated state when the drive gradation increases from an odd number to a next even number. According to the second table, a subframe newly assigned the pixel activated state is one preceding the pixel-activated-state subframe or subframes in that case. A display device is driven in response to the generated subframe data. |
| US09521399B1 |
Dynamically reconfigurable optical pattern generator module useable with a system to rapidly reconstruct three-dimensional data
Dynamic projection of at least first and second patterns contributes detectable disparity onto a scene that includes a target object. The scene is imaged with two-dimensional cameras whose acquired imagery includes disparity contributions whose presence enable a three-dimensional reconstruction depth map to be rapidly and accurately generated. In one embodiment coherent light is input to a first DOE within whose near range output is disposed a second DOE, whose far range output projects an image. Electronically varying effective optical distance between the two DOEs varies the pattern projected from the second DOE. A processor system and algorithms enable dynamic intelligent selection of projected patterns to more readily discern target object characteristics: shape, size, velocity. Patterns can implement spatio-temporal depth reconstruction, spatio-temporal depth reconstruction, and even single-camera spatio-temporal light coding reconstruction. Target objects may be scanned or may make gestures that are rapidly detected and recognized by the system and method. |
| US09521397B2 |
System and method for selecting a two-dimensional region of interest using a range sensor
A system includes a first camera defining a first camera coordinate system (C1) and configured to acquire a first image of a scene. A range sensor is spaced a first distance from the first camera and defines a range sensor coordinate system (R). A controller is operatively connected to the first camera and range sensor. The controller has a processor and a tangible, non-transitory memory device on which is recorded instructions for executing a method for obtaining a two-dimensional region of interest (u1*, v1*) in the first image, which is a two-dimensional intensity image. The first image is represented by a plurality of first points (u1, v1) in a first image plane. The controller is configured to acquire a range image of the scene with the range sensor. The range image is represented by a plurality of second points (u2, v2, d) in a second image plane. |
| US09521395B2 |
Imaging apparatus and method for controlling same
An imaging element includes a plurality of photoelectric conversion units that output an image signal for each pixel through a micro lens. An imaging signal processing circuit separates image signals output from the imaging element into a left-eye image signal and a right-eye image signal. An image combining circuit generates combined image data by performing arithmetic average processing for left-eye image data and right-eye image data. A recording medium control I/F unit controls to record left-eye image data and right-eye image data for use in 3D display and combined image data for use in 2D display in different regions in an image file. |
| US09521388B2 |
Method for play synchronization and device using the same
Methods and apparatuses are provided for providing contents. A plurality of contents is reproduced at the first device. The plurality of contents is transmitted from the first device to a second device to reproduce, in the second device, content in synchronization with the first device. Data is received from an external device during the reproducing of the plurality of contents at the first device. The received data is reproduced along with at least one of the plurality of contents being reproduced at the first device. The received data is transmitted from the first device to the second device. The transmitted data is used to enable the second device to reproduce the transmitted data together with the at least one of the plurality of contents. |
| US09521384B2 |
Green average subtraction in image data
Embodiments provide a video camera that can be configured to highly compress video data in a visually lossless manner. The camera can be configured to transform blue, red, and/or green image data in a manner that enhances the compressibility of the data. The camera can be configured to transform at least a portion of the green image data in a manner that enhances the compressibility of the data. The data can then be compressed and stored in this form. This allows a user to reconstruct the red, blue, and/or green image data to obtain the original raw data or a modified version of the original raw data that is visually lossless when demosacied. Additionally, the data can be processed in a manner in which at least some of the green image elements are demosaiced first and then the red, blue, and/or some green elements are reconstructed based on values of the demosaiced green image elements. |
| US09521383B2 |
Image processing apparatus, projector, and image processing method
An image processing apparatus includes a display control section that controls a projection device to project a correction image, a captured image data acquisition section that acquires the correction image, a judgment section that judges, when the correction image expressed by the captured image data is placed in a plane with a coordinate system, which of the following functions: a function representing a straight line; and a function representing a curved line is used to make image correction based on the distance between the correction image and at least one of a line expressed by the function representing a straight line and a line expressed by the function representing a curved line, and a presentation section that presents a user with an operation screen for correction using the function judged by the judgment section. |
| US09521379B2 |
Method for the adjustment of a colour filter for a ditigial sensor and the associated filter
Method for the adjustment of a photo finish camera including a matrix color filter, characterized in that the method includes the following steps: a first step of selecting a basic pattern having optical properties of sensitivity, of color quality and of resolution which are predefined according to race parameters; a second step of software selection of a set of adjacent columns whose number corresponds to the width of said selected basic pattern; a third step of centering said set of adjacent columns on the finish line. |
| US09521375B2 |
Digital jukebox device with improved user interfaces, and associated methods
Certain exemplary embodiments relate to entertainment systems that interact with users to provide access to media appropriate to and/or customized for a particular user using the entertainment system, the location at which the entertainment system is being accessed, and/or a predefined event. For example, in certain exemplary embodiments, an entertainment system in a location is configured to provide jukebox-related and entertainment system mediated services that are accessible from within and from the outside of the location, and provide (1) attract or flight media operations, (2) browsing services, and/or (3) search screens appropriate to and/or customized for a particular user using the entertainment system, the location at which the entertainment system is being accessed, and/or a predefined event. Such screens may be provided with a three-dimensional look-and-feel in certain exemplary embodiments. |
| US09521372B2 |
Pattern measuring apparatus, pattern measuring method, and computer-readable recording medium on which a pattern measuring program is recorded
There is provided a technique to correctly select and measure a pattern to be measured even when contours of the pattern are close to each other in a sample including a plurality of patterns on a substantially same plane.A pattern measuring apparatus that scans a sample with charged particles, forms a detected image by detecting secondary charged particles or backscattered charged particles generated from the sample, and measures a pattern imaged on the detected image includes: an image acquiring section acquiring a plurality of detected images taken at a substantially same location on the sample under different imaging conditions; a contour extracting section extracting a plurality of pattern contours from the plurality of detected images; a contour reconstructing section reconstructing a contour to be measured by combining the plurality of pattern contours; and a contour measuring section making a measurement using the reconstructed contour to be measured. |
| US09521367B2 |
Method and apparatus for coviewing video
A method, apparatus, and system to provide the ability for a user to make audio and/or audio-video phone calls simultaneously while watching (co-viewing) provider video content in remote locations. A control system is provided to set up call, direct provider video content, and provide for the phone calls and video content to be delivered and then synchronized. The phone calls may be routed by the control system to PSTN destinations or Internet based destinations and calls made or received may be bridged to other Internet based sources. The provider video content may be provided directly from its source or routed through NAT traversal or through the control system. |
| US09521362B2 |
View rendering for the provision of virtual eye contact using special geometric constraints in combination with eye-tracking
A virtual camera pose determiner is configured to determine a position and an orientation of a virtual camera. The position of the virtual camera is determined on the basis of a display position of a displayed representation of a remote participant on a display. The orientation of the virtual camera is determined on the basis of a geometrical relation between the display position of the remote participant on the display, and a position of a local participant. The virtual camera is configured to transmit an image or a sequence of images to the remote participant, so that an image provided by the virtual camera has the view on the local participant as is if viewed from the display position. Further embodiments provide a video communication system having a virtual camera pose determiner for providing a virtual camera pose on basis of the display position and the position of the local participant. |
| US09521361B2 |
Conference device
A conference device receives and transmits at least one of images and voice via a communication network. The conference device includes a housing having an upper wall; and an operating unit installed on the upper wall. The operating unit includes a first operating member group made up of a plurality of operating members, and at least one different operating member that has a lower frequency of usage as compared to each of the plurality of operating members of the first operating member group. The plurality of operating members of the first operating member group are arranged in a first direction along a top face of the upper wall. The at least one different operating member is disposed, along with one of the plurality of operating members of the first operating member group, in a second direction that runs along the top face and that intersects with the first direction. |
| US09521354B2 |
Adaptive streaming for digital content distribution
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for adapting playback bit rate to available delivery bandwidth in a content delivery system comprising a content server and a content player. A content player periodically estimates whether a given playback bit rate can feasibly provide complete playback for a given title assuming currently available bandwidth. If playback becomes unfeasible at a current bit rate assuming currently available bandwidth, then the content player adapts the bit rate downward until a feasible bit rate is achieved. If playback is feasible using a higher bit rate, then the content player may adapt the bit rate upward. |
| US09521352B2 |
Television set capable of identifying a plurality of peripherals and allowing to select and display the contents of one of the same
A television set including: interfaces for receiving peripheral sources; a screen for displaying at least one of said sources; a graphic-indications generator for showing on said screen indications relating to said interfaces; a control unit; control means for issuing commands to said television set; a video memory for storing video images obtained by processing said peripheral sources; and a processing means for reducing the dimensions of said peripheral sources to generate said video images and associating said video images to respective graphic indications relating to said interfaces. The association result is displayed on the screen, as a general video image, to allow user to identify the interface associated with the corresponding video image. A pointing element is used to select one of said video images. In response to a command issued by said control means, the contents of said selected video image are shown on said screen in full-screen form. |
| US09521347B2 |
Radiation imaging apparatus and radiation imaging system
A radiation imaging apparatus includes a plurality of conversion elements configured to convert radiation into an electric signal to obtain a radiation image, a sensor for monitoring radiation, a processing unit configured to process signals output from output electrodes of the plurality of conversion elements and an output electrode of the sensor, and a shield. The signal output from the output electrode of the sensor is supplied to the processing unit via a signal line. The shield is arranged such that capacitive coupling between the output electrodes of the plurality of conversion elements and the signal line is reduced. |
| US09521344B2 |
Image sensor and method of processing image data with multiple differential ramping up/down signals, and image processing device including the image sensor
A method of operating an image sensor includes generating a plurality of ramping up/down signals, and comparing a correlated double sampled pixel signal produced from an output of a pixel with a correlated double sampled first ramping up/down signal among the plurality of ramping up/down signals in a reset interval. The method further includes comparing the correlated double sampled pixel signal with the correlated double sampled first ramping up/down signal at one sampling time or more in an image interval, and a step of outputting a selected ramping up/down signal among the plurality of ramping up/down signals based on a result of the comparison. |
| US09521337B1 |
Reset-marking pixel sensor
A self-resetting pixel having a memory element to record occurrence of an asynchronous pixel reset and circuitry to enable the memory element to be digitally sampled and cleared is disclosed, together with embodiments of digital image sensors formed by arrays or other collections of such pixels. By marking occurrence of asynchronous reset events within an in-pixel memory element that may be digitally oversampled during an exposure interval (i.e., repeatedly read-out in the form of, for example, a single-bit), it becomes possible to check for and detect asynchronous pixel reset events frequently and efficiently. |
| US09521336B1 |
Multi-spectral photon converting imaging apparatus
A multi-spectral photon converting imaging apparatus and method are disclosed. A plurality of photons in a first received band and a plurality of photons in a second received band are received by a first nanoparticle photon conversion material. The first nanoparticle photon conversion material converts the plurality of photons in the first received band to a plurality of photons in a first converted band, and the plurality of photons in the second received band to a plurality of photons in a second converted band. An image sensor receives the plurality of photons in the first converted band and the plurality of photons in the second converted band, and generates a digitized image of the scene based on the plurality of photons in the first converted band and the plurality of photons in the second converted band. |