Document Document Title
US09547744B2 Method for reusing and verifying electronic circuits
The present invention provides a method for reusing and verifying electronic circuits, including the following steps of comparing company part numbers of new circuit design with company part numbers of previous circuit design; determining whether the company part numbers of the new circuit design are identical to the company part numbers of the previous circuit design; reporting the same company part numbers between the new circuit design and the previous circuit if the company part numbers of the new circuit design are identical to the company part numbers of the previous circuit design; determining whether the circuit fingerprints of the new circuit design match the circuit fingerprints of the previous circuit design; and verifying and reporting that the previous circuit design is reused in the new circuit design if the circuit fingerprints of the new circuit design match the circuit fingerprints of the previous circuit design.
US09547742B2 Systems and methods for via placement
A method for configuring a via in a semiconductor device includes determining time dependent dielectric breakdown failure rate as a function of distance between the via and a metal line, generating candidate via configurations with different sizes, rotation, and offset values for the via, determining TDDB failure rate for the candidate via configurations, and selecting one of the candidate via configurations with an optimal TDDB failure rate for the via.
US09547741B2 Methods, apparatus, and system for using filler cells in design of integrated circuit devices
At least one method, apparatus and system disclosed involves circuit layout for an integrated circuit device. A design for an integrated circuit device is received; The design comprises a first functional cell and a second functional cell. The first functional cell is placed on a circuit layout. A determination is made as to whether the first cell comprises a vertical boundary that is electrically floating. A filler cell is placed adjacent to the vertical boundary on the circuit layout in response to determining that the first cell comprises the vertical boundary that is electrically floating. The second functional cell is placed adjacent to the filler cell to form a contiguous active area on the circuit layout.
US09547740B2 Methods for fabricating high-density integrated circuit devices
An integrated circuit device having a plurality of lines is described in which the widths of the lines, and the spacing between adjacent lines, vary within a small range which is independent of variations due to photolithographic processes, or other patterning processes, involved in manufacturing the device. A sequential sidewall spacer formation process is described for forming an etch mask for the lines, which results in first and second sets of sidewall spacers arranged in an alternating fashion. As a result of this sequential sidewall spacer process, the variation in the widths of the lines across the plurality of lines, and the spacing between adjacent lines, depends on the variations in the dimensions of the sidewall spacers. These variations are independent of, and can be controlled over a distribution much less than, the variation in the size of the intermediate mask element caused by the patterning process.
US09547735B2 System and method for viewing and modifying configurable RTL modules
A configurable module editor and viewer (CMVE) reads the RTL description of a configurable module keeping track of all possible configuration options. Configuration options include pre-processor macros that are normally removed by RTL parsers. The CMVE allows users to view multiple configurations simultaneously. The CMVE assists users in editing the configurable module by presenting a simplified view of interest, while automatically propagating changes and maintaining consistency in the configurable module. The CMVE outputs updated RTL that maintains all configuration options.
US09547731B2 Merging sets of data objects for display
Disclosed is a method of merging a first set of data objects and a second set of data objects for displaying on a display screen, the method comprising: retrieving a first identifier associated with a first memory location, the first memory location for storing the first set of data objects; retrieving a second identifier associated with a second memory location, the second memory location for storing the second set of data objects; comparing the first identifier and the second identifier; and grouping one or more first data objects from the first set of data objects and one or more second data objects from the second set of data objects based on the comparison.
US09547724B2 Providing rule based analysis of content to manage activation of web extension
A rule based analysis of content is provided to manage activation of a web extension. A user interaction with the content launches a process to match a rule from the manifest to a portion of the content. The rule and the detected content are loaded into memory. The content is processed using the rule and by accessing the memory containing the content to determine a match. An application may choose to process the content using the rules on a background thread to avoid impacting user's experience. An activation control is displayed for the web extension associated with the rule within a web extension pane upon matching the rule to an item in the content.
US09547722B2 System and method for providing a temporally or geographically relevant item
A system and method for providing at least one of a geographically relevant item or a temporally relevant item are provided. A geographical location or temporal information of a device that is configured to access items associated with an electronic messaging account is determined. First items associated with the electronic messaging account are filtered to obtain an item relevant to the determined geographical location or temporal information. Second items associated with the electronic messaging account are filtered to obtain one or more items contextually relevant to the relevant item. The relevant item and one or more items contextually relevant to the relevant item are provided for display, wherein the display is differentiated from other items of the electronic messaging account.
US09547718B2 High precision set expansion for large concepts
A set expansion system is described herein that improves precision, recall, and performance of prior set expansion methods for large sets of data. The system maintains high precision and recall by 1) identifying the qualify of particular lists and applying that quality through a weight, 2) allowing for the specification or negative examples in a set of seeds to reduce the introduction of bad entities into the set, and 3) applying a cutoff to eliminate lists that include a low number of positive matches. The system may perform multiple passes to first generate a good candidate result set and then refine the set to find a set with highest quality. The system may also apply Map Reduce or other distributed processing techniques to allow calculation in parallel. Thus, the system efficiently expands large concept sets from a potentially small set of initial seeds from readily available web data.
US09547717B2 Administration of search results
A web browser displays a set of search results from a web search, each search result indicating a link to a web page. Responsive to selection of a first of the set of search results for exclusion from display, a subset of one or more of the set of search results that indicate related links is identified. The related links comprise links have a same domain name as the link of the first search result. The first search result and the subset of the set of search results are excluded. The search results are displayed without the excluded ones of the set of search results.
US09547714B2 Multifaceted search
A query is received that includes two or more facets of a multidimensional inverted index for a collection of documents. Each document is associated with at least one facet. Generation of the multidimensional inverted index includes creating one or more entries. Each entry includes a combination of two or more facets and a posting list of indications for the documents associated with respective facets of each entry. Each indication identifies a document. Generation of the index also includes determining documents associated with respective facets of the combination of each entry. The multidimensional inverted index is searched for an entry having the combination of two or more facets included in the query and a search result is returned. An indication for a document may be included in a posting list if it is determined that the document is associated with each facet of the combination of facets of the entry.
US09547713B2 Search result tagging
One or more techniques and/or systems are provided for tagging search results, organizing tagged search results for later access from various devices, public sharing of tagged search results, and/or providing targeted content based upon search results tagged by a user. That is, a user may tag a search result (e.g., a website, an image, a social network profile, etc.), such as through a one-click user input, with a tag to create a tagged search result. The tagged search result may be organized into a public tag collection for sharing and/or exploration of tagged search results by other users. The tagged search result may be organized into a personal tag collection for later access by the user from any device. Because the tagged search result may be indicative of an interest of the user, targeted content associated with the tagged search result may be provided to the user.
US09547712B2 Automatic document classification via content analysis at storage time
Techniques are disclosed for efficiently and automatically classifying textual documents or files. In some embodiments, the classification process is integrated into or otherwise made part of the storage function, such that when the user initiates a save process for a given file, the file is processed through a classifier prior to (or contemporaneously with) completing the save function. In some such embodiments, textual content of the file is analyzed using natural language processing to identify a main or substantial concept discussed in the file, and one or more corresponding tags are then assigned to that file. Subsequently, the user can access that file based on the one or more tags, for instance, through a user interface that allows the user to select one or more content categories associated with the assigned tags. The files can be text-based, but may include other content as well, such as images, video, and audio.
US09547711B1 Shard data based on associated social relationship
A method includes identifying a plurality of content types in a database of a social network, wherein members produce and request content of different content types from the database. Job types to be performed on each content type are identified, when requests for content are received from members of the social network. A sharding process for each content type is selected based on the job types to be performed on the content types. The database is sharded into first group of shards for content types having job types that are parallel processing efficient and into second group of shards for content types having job types that are linear processing efficient. The first and second group of shards define a multi-shard database. Requests for contents are serviced from the first group or the second group of shards from the multi-shard database depending on the job types associated with the requests.
US09547710B2 Methods for the cyclical pattern determination of time-series data using a clustering approach
Cycles and other patterns within time-series data are determined. Time-series data are transformed into discretized sets of clustered data that are organized by time period. Comparison is made of the organized data to determine similar time periods and multiclusters of the similar time periods are formed. From the multicluster data, cycles are identified from which thresholds and other useful data may be derived, or the data used for other useful purposes.
US09547705B2 System for live-migration and automated recovery of applications in a distributed system
A method and apparatus for distribution of applications amongst a number of servers, ensuring that changes to application data on a master for that application are asynchronously replicated to a number of slaves for that application. Servers may be located in geographically diverse locations; the invention permits data replication over high-latency and lossy network connections and failure-tolerance under hardware and network failure conditions. Access to applications is mediated by a distributed protocol handler which allows any request for any application to be addressed to any server, and which, when working in tandem with the replication system, pauses connections momentarily to allow seamless, consistent live-migration of applications and their state between servers. Additionally, a system which controls the aforementioned live-migration based on dynamic measurement of load generated by each application and the topological preferences of each application, in order to automatically keep servers at an optimum utilization level.
US09547704B1 Email robustness checking
To synchronize data stored by a first device (e.g., a client system) with data stored by a second device (e.g., a server system), the first device encodes a first set of ordered data identifiers, stored in memory of the first device, to produce an encoded value, wherein the first set of ordered data identifiers is bound in accordance with a range indicator, and transmits the encoded value and the range indicator to the second device. The first device subsequently receives from the second device a remedial set of ordered data identifiers stored in memory of the second device when the encoded value does not match a corresponding value determined by the second device, wherein the remedial set of ordered data identifiers is also bound in accordance with the range indicator.
US09547698B2 Determining media consumption preferences
Systems and methods are disclosed for determining media consumption preferences. A method may include accessing media consumption history associated with a user. The media consumption history may include at least one of media purchase history of the user, media viewing history of the user, and media listening history of the user. A media category preference of the user may be determined, based on the media consumption history. The media category preference may include a popularity indication for each of a plurality of media categories of media items in the media consumption history. Search results provided in response to a search query by the user and/or media recommendations prepared for the user may be scored based on the media category preference. The media may include a video, a movie, a TV show, a book, an audio recording, a music album and/or another type of digital media.
US09547686B1 Systematic approach to determine source of data quality issue in data flow in an enterprise
A method may include applying periodically a data validation rule to data transformed through a data processing system, wherein the data validation rule applies aspects selected from a group consisting of data value range, specific data values, and relationship with other data entries; responsive to detecting a violation of the data validation rule, identifying a portion of the transformed data for lineage assessment; examining the identified transformed data iteratively upstream at a previous transformation node in a lineage graph, until the method detects a node where the violation of the data validation rule can't be reproduced; creating a separate node in a distributed network for each of the previous transformation nodes in the lineage graph; and identifying the separate node in the distributed network introducing the violation of the data validation rule.
US09547681B2 Combining row based and column based tables to form mixed-mode tables
Various ways of storing data in tabular form such that some records are stored in a row oriented manner and some data is stored in a column oriented manner. The records respectively stored in the row and column oriented manners may, or may not, overlap (in whole or in part. Some embodiments accomplish this dual orientation of data by: (i) using a range partition; (ii) using a union all view command; and/or (iii) using a first table, a staging table and a materialized query table.
US09547679B2 Demographic and media preference prediction using media content data analysis
Methods, systems and computer program products are provided for predicting data. A name or title is obtained from a taste profile. There is an index into a data set based on the name or title, and a set of terms and corresponding term weights associated with the name or title are retrieved. A sparse vector is constructed based on the set of terms and term weights. The sparse vector is input to a training model including target data. The target data includes a subset of test data which has a correspondence to a predetermined target metric of data. A respective binary value and confidence level is output for each term, corresponding to an association between the term and the target metric.
US09547668B2 Event-based content item view
Systems, methods, and computer-readable storage media for an event-based photo view in a browser are disclosed. The system can receive a request to display a set of content items associated with a user account. The system can generate a web page based on a size of the set of files, the web page providing a continuous presentation of the set of files at the web page on a device, wherein a visible portion of the web page includes a presentation of files, and wherein the files are mapped to an area in the web page that is associated with a current position within the web page. The web page can include an events-based navigation feature. The system can transmit the web page to device for display at the device.
US09547666B2 Location graph based derivation of attributes
Location graph-based derivation of user attributes is disclosed. In various embodiments, location data associated with a user, such as a current and/or past location at which the user has been, is received. A user attribute data associated with the location data is determined and used to update a user profile associated with the user.
US09547661B2 Defining pairing rules for connections
A system and method for compressing that comprises establishing attributes or elements to build a schema that is utilized to generate a record that includes the connection descriptions, building a set of substitution rules by using range expressions and substitution variables, and utilizing the set of substitution rules to associate value assignments that compress the connection descriptions within the record.
US09547657B2 Methods and systems for efficient comparison of file sets
Aspects and implementations of the present disclosure are directed to methods and systems for comparing sets of files using signatures. In general, in some implementations, an audit system compares a first plurality of signatures representing element information for a first file hierarchy to a second plurality of signatures representing element information for a second file hierarchy. The audit system determines, based on the comparison of the first plurality of signatures to the second plurality of signatures, whether the first file hierarchy is likely to be a modified copy of the second file hierarchy. In some implementations, the audit system compares signatures of a first signature type, selects a second signature type based on the comparison using the first signature type, and compares signatures of the second signature type. In some implementations, the second plurality of signatures is stored in a catalog of signatures representing various file hierarchies.
US09547653B1 Wireless drive file backup
A configuration message is received from a first computer system. In response to the configuration message, a first wireless device is enumerated on the first computer system as locally attached mass storage. A registration message is sent to a wireless network. File information about a shared file is received from a second wireless device. The second wireless device is enumerated on a second computer system as locally attached mass storage. A shared block of data is received from the second wireless device. The shared block of data is sent to the first computer system as data that is stored on a locally attached mass storage device.
US09547650B2 System for sharing and rating streaming media playlists
Systems are provided to enable users of a streaming media playback system to share playlists. A user can select a first play-list corresponding to a play-list identifier and can use the messaging component executable from a first playback interface to send a message to a second user that allows the second user to playback the selected play-list. The play-list identifier may be packaged with arguments or other coding. The system further includes a streaming media clips rating system that includes a database management component that maintains an organizational data structure describing rating information for media resources, and a dynamic playlist generator adapted to automatically and dynamically generate at least one play-list for a user based on rating information in the organizational data structure comprises identifiers of one or more media resources that have similar attributes to one or more media resources that have received a positive rating selection from a user.
US09547647B2 Voice-based media searching
Methods and systems for searching for media items using a voice-based digital assistant are described. Natural language text strings corresponding to search queries are provided. The search queries include query terms. The text strings may correspond to speech inputs input by a user into an electronic device. At least one information source is searched to identify at least one parameter associated with at least one of the query terms. The parameters include at least one of a time parameter, a date parameter, or a geo-code parameter. The parameters are compared to tags of media items to identify matches. In some implementations, media items whose tags match the parameter are presented to the user.
US09547637B2 Segmenting forms for multiple user completion
The claimed subject matter provides a system and/or a method that facilitates completing multiple electronic document applications. An interface component can receive two or more electronic documents, wherein each electronic document includes at least two or more questions with respective fill-in fields to be completed by a user input. A master field component can create a master field list that includes a first subset of questions and a second subset of questions and the first subset of questions is targeted toward a first user to answer and the second subset of questions are targeted toward second user to answer. A user segregation manager component can ensure an independent and secure log in to the master field list for each user to provide information. A form aggregation component can leverage the master field list to populate or update the electronic document.
US09547636B2 Mobile data and handwriting screen capture and forwarding
The claimed subject matter provides a system and/or a method that facilitates communicating data utilizing a portable device. An interface component can receive annotation data related to a display associated with a portable device. An annotation component can append a screen shot corresponding to the display with the annotated data to create an annotated screen shot.
US09547622B1 Monolithically integrated system on chip for silicon photonics
In an example, the present invention includes an integrated system on chip device. The device is configured on a single silicon substrate member. In an example, the device has a driver interface provided on the substrate member and coupled to the driver module and configured to be coupled to a silicon photonics device.
US09547621B1 Hot swap decoupling for noise reduction and failure prevention
An apparatus for selectively connecting a decoupling capacitor in parallel with a load on a power bus during a hot swap power up. In an aspect, an apparatus includes a capacitive coupling connected to a hot swap control circuit and that capacitively couples first and second power conductors when the output of the hot swap control circuit indicates a monitored load has attained a voltage threshold.
US09547619B2 Wireless docking
In one example, a method includes determining, by a wireless dockee (WD), one or more peripheral functions (PFs) associated with a wireless docking center (WDC). In this example, the method further includes establishing a docking session via a direct wireless connection between the WD and the WDC. In this example, the method further includes selecting, by the WD, at least one PF of the one or more PFs associated with the WDC. In this example, the method further includes accessing, by the WD, the at least one PF of the one or more PFs associated with the WDC.
US09547617B2 PHY IC ACA bridge, RID—B resistance, and VBUS voltage circuits
A physical layer integrated circuit (PHY), including an accessory charger adapter (ACA) bridge circuit to communicate with an ACA via a universal serial bus (USB) cable having at least an ID pin and a VBUS pin. The PHY is also to communicate with an ACA-agnostic USB controller configured to act as an A-device or as a B-device. The ACA comprises a USB accessory port. The ACA bridge circuit comprises detection and control logic configured to detect, based on a resistance sensed on the ID pin, that a B-device is connected to the USB accessory port of the ACA and, as a result of such a detection, generate a signal to the USB controller that causes the USB controller to act as an A-device and ignore a VBUS drive signal from the USB controller that, if not ignored, would cause the PHY to drive the VBUS pin. The detection and control logic is also configured to detect, based on a resistance sensed on the ID pin, that an off/idle A-device or nothing is connected to the USB accessory port of the ACA and, as a result of such a detection, modify a signal to the USB controller that prevents the USB controller from being aware of a voltage on the VBUS pin.
US09547614B2 Device management system, communication device, device management apparatus, and control method
There is provided a device management system. In the system, a first communication device sends a device ID and an owner identifier to a device management apparatus, and receives a first confirmation code. The device management apparatus receives the device ID and the owner identifier, generates the first confirmation code and provisional registration information, records the received and generated information items, sends the first confirmation code to the first communication device, and sends the provisional registration information to a second communication device. The second communication device receives the provisional registration information, obtains a second confirmation code, and sends the second confirmation code to the device management apparatus. The device management apparatus receives the second confirmation code, and records registration completion information if the second confirmation code matches the corresponding first confirmation code.
US09547609B2 Data interface for point-to-point communications between devices
A data interface is provided for point-to-point communications between two devices, such as a read channel and a disk controller in an HDD system. An interface for communications from a transmitting device to a receiving device comprises a data bus configured to communicate m bits of data and a corresponding n bit data tag, wherein a given n bit data tag identifies a data type of a corresponding m bits of data on the data bus. An acknowledge signal from the receiving device optionally indicates that data on the data bus has been received and that the data on the data bus can be changed to a new value. A valid flag optionally indicates when a new predefined m-bit data value and corresponding n-bit tag value are on the data bus.
US09547599B2 System and method for predicting false sharing
In one embodiment, a method for predicting false sharing includes running code on a plurality of cores and tracking potential false sharing in the code while running the code to produce tracked potential false sharing, where tracking the potential false sharing includes determining whether there is potential false sharing between a first cache line and a second cache line, and where the first cache line is adjacent to the second cache line. The method also includes reporting potential false sharing in accordance with the tracked potential false sharing to produce a false sharing report.
US09547595B2 Salvaging lock elision transactions
A transactional memory system salvages hardware lock elision (HLE) transactions. A computer system of the transactional memory system records information about locks elided to begin HLE transactional execution of first and second transactional code regions. The computer system detects a pending cache line conflict of a cache line, and based on the detecting stops execution of the first code region of the first transaction and the second code region of the second transaction. The computer system determines that the first lock and the second lock are different locks and uses the recorded information about locks elided to acquire the first lock of the first transaction and the second lock of the second transaction. The computer system commits speculative state of the first transaction and the second transaction and the computer system continues execution of the first code region and the second code region non-transactionally.
US09547585B2 Information processing device, memory management method, and recording medium that ensure versatile memory management
An information processing device includes a memory and a control unit. The memory is employed as a program work area. The control unit switches between a first mode and a second mode; during the first mode, detects a resident program resident in the memory, and saves information identifying the resident program, as resident program information; and during the second mode, determines whether a requestor program, requesting allocation of the work area, is the resident program or not by comparing requestor-program identifying information with the resident program information, and in succession allocates in the memory respective work areas for one or more requestor programs determined to be resident programs.
US09547584B2 Remote testing
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for remote testing. In one aspect, a method includes receiving a first message from a first user device indicating initialization of a client application. The method includes determining that the first user device is a member of a first testing group. The method includes identifying a first testing component associated with the first testing group and capable of altering the client application. The method includes sending the first testing component to the first user device.
US09547582B2 Selectable data on file viewing in a debugger
Embodiments of the invention provide a method, system and computer program product for selectable data on file viewing in a debugger. A method includes specifying a file in a user interface of a debugger executing in memory of a computer and debugging a target application and determining whether to view data in the file from a perspective of the computer or the target application. The method additionally includes loading the data in the file directly from the computer externally to the target application in response to determining to view the data in the file from the perspective of the computer, but otherwise loading the data through operations performed by the debugger on behalf of the target application in response to determining to view the data in the file from the perspective of the target application. Finally, the method includes displaying the loaded data in a file viewer of the user interface of the debugger.
US09547577B2 Method and apparatus for determining processor performance
A method of determining the performance of a processor when processing a unit of data is described. The method comprises the steps of: receiving, at a first sample rate, information indicating the performance of the processor when processing the unit of data; generating an identifier that identifies the unit of data being processed; comparing the identifier with previous identifiers at a second sample rate; and outputting the identifier of the unit of data being processed and the performance information when, during the comparing step, a predetermined condition is met.
US09547576B2 Multi-core processor system and control method
A multi-core processor system includes a multi-core processor that has plural core groups; and a storage device that stores a constraint on execution time for each application. A first identified core of the multi-core processor is configured to identify a constraint on execution time of a given application that is among the applications and for which an invocation instruction is received; determine whether the identified constraint meets a performance drop condition; assign the given application to a predetermined core of the multi-core processor, upon determining that the identified constraint meets the performance drop condition; and notify a second identified core of a core group among the core groups, of an assignment instruction for the given application, upon determining that the identified constraint does not meet the performance drop condition.
US09547574B2 Power shutdown prediction for non-volatile storage devices
A method includes, in a host that stores data in a storage device, detecting an event that is indicative, statistically and not deterministically, of an imminent power shutdown in the host. A notification is sent to the storage device responsively to the detected event, so as to cause the storage device to initiate preparatory action for the imminent power shutdown.
US09547571B2 Block behavior tracking in a memory system
A storage device with a memory may include memory block health monitoring and behavior tracking. Each memory block may be analyzed based on one or more dummy wordlines within the block may not be accessible for normal data storage. The dummy wordlines may be programmed with a known data pattern that can be tracked and analyzed for potential errors, which may be used as representation of the health of the memory block. Adjustments can be made to the operating parameters (e.g. read voltages) to optimize each memory block based on its error analysis.
US09547570B2 Devices, systems and methods for debugging network connectivity
The devices, systems, and methods test network connectivity, where the physical network is used to provide one or more service chains connecting service appliances, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, load balancers, network address translators, web servers, and so on. A service chain may involve multiple routing paths. The devices, systems, and methods test network connectivity test network connectivity by injecting customized echo request packets on each routing path and collecting customized echo reply packets in response. The customized echo reply packets are processed and aggregated to isolate network connectivity problems.
US09547569B2 Electronic control unit for vehicle
To provide a vehicle electronic control unit including a first microcomputer (2, 3) and a second microcomputer (3, 2) capable of transmitting and receiving signals to and from the first microcomputer. One of the first microcomputer and the second microcomputer outputs a PWM signal to the other microcomputer (3, 2). The other microcomputer detects an on-time of the PWM signal, performs a self diagnosis according to the detected on-time, and outputs a self diagnosis result to the one microcomputer. The one microcomputer diagnoses the other microcomputer based on the self diagnosis result.
US09547568B2 Method and apparatus for verifying circuit design
A verification test is performed on a device containing master and slave units connected via a bus. In the verification test, a first signal is transferred between a first master unit and a first slave unit during a first transfer period while a second signal is transferred between a second master unit and a second slave unit during a second transfer period. The second transfer period overlaps at least a part of the first transfer period. When the first transfer period is longer than a third transfer period, first combination information indicating the combination of the first master unit and first slave unit is stored in a storage unit, in conjunction with second combination information indicating the combination of the second master unit and second slave unit.
US09547564B1 Automated deployment of applications
Functionality is disclosed for automated deployment of applications. A network-based deployment service provides functionality for deploying software components to physical or virtual hosts in a service provider network and/or to hosts in other types of networks external to the service provider network. A user of the deployment service creates an application revision that includes deployable content and an application specification defining how the application is to be deployed and one or more lifecycle events. The application revision is then uploaded to a storage service, source code repository, or other location. A deployment configuration is also created that defines the location of the application revision, a deployment group, and a schedule for the deployment. A deployment agent executing on hosts in the deployment group obtains the application revision from the specified location, deploys the deployable content according to the schedule, and performs the lifecycle events.
US09547562B1 Boot restore system for rapidly restoring virtual machine backups
A boot restore system and associated processes for rapidly restoring virtual machine images are described. The boot restore system can boot a virtual machine from a set of one or more backup files in a backup repository. The boot restore system can make the backup set available for use by the virtual machine immediately or otherwise rapidly. Thus, users may not have to wait for an actual virtual disk image to be copied to a separate file system before accessing the restored backup set. While a user is accessing the virtual machine, a live migration process can migrate the backup set to a target file system, without any disruption or substantial disruption in use of the running virtual machine.
US09547561B1 Method and computer readable medium for providing checkpointing to windows application groups
A computer readable medium and method for providing checkpointing to Windows application groups. The checkpointing may be triggered asynchronously using Asynchronous Procedure Calls. The computer readable medium includes computer-executable instructions for execution by a processing system. The computer-executable instructions may be for reviewing one or more command line arguments to determine whether to start at least one of the application groups, and when determining to start the at least one of the application groups, creating a process table in a shared memory to store information about each process of the at least one of the application groups. Further, the instructions may be for registering with a kernel module to create an application group barrier, creating a named pipe for applications of the application group to register and unregister, triggering a checkpoint thread to initiate an application group checkpoint; and launching an initial application of the applications of the application group.
US09547553B1 Data resiliency in a shared memory pool
Various systems to achieve data resiliency in a shared memory pool are presented. Multiple memory modules are associated with multiple data interfaces, one or multiple erasure-coding interfaces are communicatively connected with the multiple data interfaces, and multiple compute elements are communicatively connected with one or multiple erasure-coding interfaces. Data sets are erasure-coded, and the resulting fragments are stored in random access memory modules distributed throughout the system. Storage in RAM allows real-time fetching of fragments using random-access read cycles and streaming of fragments using random-access write cycles, in which read operations include reconstruction of data sets from fetched data fragments, and write operations allow conversion of data sets into fragments which are then streamed and distributively stored. Distributed memory creates data resiliency to reconstruct original data sets in cases such as data corruption, failure of a memory module, failure of a data interface, or failure of a compute element.
US09547551B2 Memory system having an encoding processing circuit for redundant encoding process
A memory system includes an encoding processing circuit configured to perform redundant encoding process on target data for generating data and a memory for writing the generated data by the encoding processing circuit, where a number of bits having a predetermined value are half or less than a total number of bits of the generated data.
US09547546B2 Interrupt supervision system, processing system and method for interrupt supervision
An interrupt supervision system comprises an interrupt controller device comprising a plurality of interrupt request input lines and at least one output line connectable to a processing device. The interrupt controller device is arranged to receive, on the plurality of interrupt request input lines, a plurality of corresponding interrupt requests and to provide, on the at least one output line, the plurality of interrupt requests to the processing device in a sequence generated by the interrupt controller device depending on one or more priorities assigned to the interrupt requests; and one or more interrupt checker devices, each being arranged to receive a reception indication when the interrupt controller device receives, on a selected one of the plurality of interrupt request lines, a corresponding selected interrupt request, and to provide a corresponding error indication when an output of the corresponding selected interrupt request from the interrupt controller device on the at least one output line is not confirmed within a latency period assigned to the corresponding selected interrupt request, wherein the assigned latency period begins when the interrupt checker device receives the reception indication.
US09547543B2 Detecting an abnormal subsequence in a data sequence
A method for detecting abnormal subsequences in data sequence includes constructing a hierarchical data structure of a target subsequence, each node in a bottommost layer of the data structure storing corresponding data of the target subsequence, and each node in a layer above the bottommost layer storing values based on data stored in corresponding nodes in a lower layer next to the layer above the bottommost layer; determining a second number of neighbors of the target subsequence based on the data structure of the target subsequence and of the first number of reference subsequences constructed in advance, the second number of neighbors having minimum Euclidean distances from the target subsequence; determining a third number of neighbors of each reference subsequence in the second number of reference subsequences, which have minimum Euclidean distances from each reference subsequence and determining whether the target subsequence is an abnormal subsequence.
US09547540B1 Distributed operating system functions for nodes in a rack
A computer-implemented method includes managing function calls between a plurality of nodes and a super node of a rack system having a distributed operating system (OS). The OS includes a plurality of functions divided into first class and a second class, and each of the plurality of nodes excludes functions in the second class. Managing the function calls includes detecting a call to a first function on a first node of the plurality of nodes. It is determined that the first function belongs to the second class of functions and is not available on the first node. The call to the first function is routed to the super node, responsive to determining that the first function belongs to the second class, where the super node includes code for the functions in the second class.
US09547521B2 System and method for supporting dynamic thread pool sizing in a distributed data grid
A system and method supports dynamic thread pool sizing suitable for use in multi-threaded processing environment such as a distributed data grid. Dynamic thread pool resizing utilizes measurements of thread pool throughput and worker thread utilization in combination with analysis of the efficacy of prior thread pool resizing actions to determine whether to add or remove worker threads from a thread pool in a current resizing action. Furthermore, the dynamic thread pool resizing system and method can accelerate or decelerate the iterative resizing analysis and the rate of worker thread addition and removal depending on the needs of the system. Optimizations are incorporated to prevent settling on a local maximum throughput. The dynamic thread pool sizing/resizing system and method thereby provides rapid and responsive adjustment of thread pool size in response to changes in work load and processor availability.
US09547517B2 Application-specific data in-flight services along a communication path selected based on a DIF services policy associated with a VM
Embodiments provide data in-flight (DIF) services to software applications such as virtual machines (VMs) at an application level without requiring modification to established storage protocols. In exemplary embodiments, a software application is associated with a DIF services policy indicating one or more DIF services to apply to the software application. Data transmitted by the software application to a destination is tagged based on the DIF services policy associated with the software application and transmitted to the destination.
US09547516B2 Method and system for migrating virtual machines in virtual infrastructure
A method of migrating a data compute node (DCN) in a datacenter comprising a plurality of host physical computing devices, a compute manager, and a network manager is provided. The method by the network manager configures a plurality of logical networks and provides a read-only configuration construct of at least one of the plurality of logical networks to the virtualization software of each host. The construct of each logical network includes a unique identification of the logical network. The method by the compute manager obtains the unique identification of one or more of the logical networks, determining that a particular logical network is available on first and second hosts based on the unique identification of the particular logical network, and configures a first DCN to move from the first host to the second host based on the determination that the first and second hosts are on the particular logical network.
US09547511B2 Language-based model for asynchronous operations
A language-based model to support asynchronous operations set forth in a synchronous syntax is provided. The asynchronous operations are transformed in a compiler into an asynchronous pattern, such as an APM-based pattern (or asynchronous programming model based pattern). The ability to compose asynchronous operations comes from the ability to efficiently call asynchronous methods from other asynchronous methods, pause them and later resume them, and effectively implementing a single-linked stack. One example includes support for ordered and unordered compositions of asynchronous operations. In an ordered composition, each asynchronous operation is started and finished before another operation in the composition is started. In an unordered composition, each asynchronous operation is started and completed independently of the operations in the unordered composition.
US09547510B2 Tracking guest memory characteristics for memory scheduling
A system and method are disclosed for improving operation of a memory scheduler operating on a host machine supporting virtual machines (VMs) in which guest operating systems and guest applications run. For each virtual machine, the host machine hypervisor categorizes memory pages into memory usage classes and estimates the total number of pages for each memory usage class. The memory scheduler uses this information to perform memory reclamation and allocation operations for each virtual machine. The memory scheduler further selects between ballooning reclamation and swapping reclamation operations based in part on the numbers of pages in each memory usage class for the virtual machine. Calls to the guest operating system provide the memory usage class information. Memory reclamation not only can improve the performance of existing VMs, but can also permit the addition of a VM on the host machine without substantially impacting the performance of the existing and new VMs.
US09547505B2 Adaptive contextual graphical representation of development entities
In some example implementations, there is provided a method. The method may include receiving, at an interface, a selection of one of a plurality of elements of a tool bar, the plurality of elements including an application structure element and a where-used element; obtaining, in response to the selected element, at least one view providing a graphical representation of context information for a component of a system; and providing to a user interface the at least one view as a stream to allow presentation at the user interface. Related systems, methods, and articles of manufacture are also provided.
US09547504B2 Image forming apparatus, method of connecting with external device thereof, and computer-readable recording medium
An image forming apparatus that includes a first storage where a first program to communicate with an external interface is stored when the image forming apparatus is in a normal mode, a second storage where a second program which is smaller than the first program in size is stored in order to perform communication with a pre-defined external device through the external interface when the image forming apparatus is in a power saving mode, and a controller which performs communication with the external interface using the first program stored in the first storage or the second program stored in the second storage according to an operation mode of the image forming apparatus.
US09547502B2 Rebooting InfiniBand clusters
Methods, systems, and physical computer-readable storage media are now provided that reduce latency and improve efficiency of a system after reboot of an Infiniband (IB) cluster. A method of rebooting an Infiniband cluster includes rebooted endpoints, which set a locally corresponding local identifier (LID). The rebooted endpoints then activate a corresponding local logical link.
US09547500B2 Customizing program logic for booting a system
A method and system are provided for generating customized program logic operable to control hardware devices of a target system and to boot said target system. The method includes determining the hardware devices operatively connected with the target system; sending a first list of identifiers of the determined hardware devices to a server system; receiving the first list of device identifiers; automatically selecting at least one driver operable to control the identified device, thereby generating a sub-set of said set of drivers; and complementing a core program logic with said driver sub-set to generate the customized program logic.
US09547496B2 Energy efficient multi-modal instruction issue
A processor is described herein that is configured to switch between a first instruction issue mode of the processor and a second instruction issue mode of the processor based at least in part on a characteristic associated with a plurality of instructions. The first instruction issue mode and the second instruction issue mode are associated with different energy consumption characteristics. Also, the first instruction issue mode may be an out-of-order instruction issue mode and the second instruction issue mode may be an in-order instruction issue mode.
US09547495B1 Pattern based branch prediction
A method comprises identifying a number of branches (Nb) and a number of iterations (Ni) in a loop in an instruction stream, generating a number of forward branches until the number of forward branches equals Nb, generating a non-branch instruction in between the forward branch instruction, recording in a memory, instruction stream generated and a history of each branch, an associated target address of each branch, and whether the branch is a taken branch or a not taken branch, determining whether a loop iterator number (i) is less than Ni−1, generating a backward branch with a target address which is greater than or equal to the start address and is lesser than the current address responsive to determining that (i) is less than Ni, and recording in the memory, a branch instruction of the generated backward branch and the associated target address of the backward branch.
US09547485B2 System and method for deploying a virtual machine
A system and method may include identifying a virtual machine setting associated with a virtual machine, obtaining system specification information associated with a computer, and generating validation information based on the system specification information and the virtual machine setting. The system and method may further include determining whether to deploy the virtual machine to the computer based on the validation information.
US09547482B2 Declarative design-time experience platform for code generation
The disclosure generally describes methods, software, and systems, including a method for using templates to generate application code. A selection of a template is received from an application development user interface. The template includes a declarative model file describing user interface aspects for declaring customization of applications in an implementation-independent, consistent way, independent of the selected template and a target computer. A metadata file includes information describing the template. Plural template files provide specific syntax suitable for code generation. The template is provided in the user interface using at least development environment plugins. Customization inputs associated with the template are received from the user interface. The customization inputs provide parameters used in the code-generation plugins. Application code is automatically generated for a target computer based on the selected template and the received customization inputs. The generated application code includes at least the code generated from the code-generation plugins.
US09547478B1 Hierarchical dependency analysis enhancements using disjoint-or trees
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on computer storage media, for performing hierarchical dependency analysis using disjoint-or trees. One of the methods includes receiving, from a user, a request to remove a node from a hierarchy, wherein the hierarchy is a directed graph having nodes and links, wherein each node in the hierarchy represents a software element in the project and each directed link in the hierarchy connects a corresponding pair of nodes and represents containment of a child software element represented by a first node of the pair by a parent software element represented by a second node of the pair. If a parent element of a disjoint-or tree corresponds to a parent node of the removed node, a union of dependencies for the removed node is determined. The union of dependencies is then subtracted from the parent element and from every ancestor element of the parent element.
US09547477B2 Autoeconometrics modeling method
A method and system allowing the ability to automatically and systematically run thousands and even millions of combinations and permutations of regression, forecasting and econometric trials to determine the best-fitting predictive model.
US09547475B2 Random number generating circuit
According to one embodiment, a random number generating circuit includes first to N-th oscillating circuits (N is a natural number equal to 2 or greater), first to N-th latch circuits that latch outputs of the first to N-th oscillating circuits by a first clock having a first frequency, first to N-th exclusive OR circuits, (N+1)-th to (2×N)-th latch circuits that latch outputs of the first to N-th exclusive OR circuits by the first clock, an (N+1)-th exclusive OR circuit that outputs an exclusive OR of outputs of the (N+1)-th to (2×N)-th latch circuits, and an M-bit shift register that converts serial data output from the (N+1)-th exclusive OR circuit into M-bit parallel data (M is a natural number equal to 2 or greater) by a second clock having a second frequency.
US09547473B2 Data processing
A data processing apparatus comprises a processor having an internal state dependent upon execution of application program code, the processor being configured to generate display data relating to images to be displayed and to buffer display data relating to a most recent period of execution of a currently executing application. The apparatus includes RAM for storing temporary data relating to a current operational state of program execution. The apparatus also includes a data transfer controller configured to transfer data from the RAM relating to the currently executing application, data relating to a current internal state of the processor and buffered display data to suspend data memory, and to transfer data from the suspend data memory to RAM and to the processor to recreate an execution state of an application at a time the suspend instruction was executed, and to retrieve display data relating to the resumed application.
US09547466B2 Systems and methods for using screen sampling to detect display changes
A graphical user interface (GUI) is polled to identify updates for transmission to a client device. A generalized poll of the GUI is conducted at a first frequency, wherein the poll compares color values of each pixel in a general region of the GUI with a previously known color value for that pixel to detect changed pixel color values. A local region that is a subset of the general region is determined to have a greater likelihood of being updated, e.g., regions encompassing a location of mouse and/or keyboard activity. A localized poll is conducted at a second frequency of only the local region of the GUI.
US09547465B2 Object shadowing in head worn computing
Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a secure data transfer method, including identifying a second head worn computing system (“HWC”) in close proximity to a first HWC, wherein the step of identifying the HWC includes comparing a geo-spatial location of each of the first and second HWCs, determining that the first and second HWCs have viewing angles that are substantially aligned, of opposite direction and positioned such that they are predicted to be facing each other, wherein the substantial alignment is determined by a comparison of sensor data from each of the first and second HWCs, and causing information to be shared between the first and second HWC.
US09547463B2 Image formation system and image formation method
A method includes: sending a transmission instruction to send status information indicating a state of an image formation apparatus; receiving a status information in response to the transmission instruction; determining, based on the status information, whether to permit a lock instruction to be sent causing the image formation apparatus to shift to a locked state in which only image formation instructed by a first external apparatus is executable; sending the lock instruction when the lock instruction is permitted to be sent; causing the image formation apparatus to shift to the locked state in accordance with the sent lock instruction; sending an unlock instruction to cancel the locked state; and causing the image formation apparatus to shift to an unlocked state in accordance with the sent unlock instruction. The lock instruction is permitted to be sent when the image formation apparatus is determined to not be in the locked state.
US09547461B2 Information delivery system, information processing apparatus, and information delivery method
An information delivery system includes plural plug-ins, a receiving unit, a destination-identifying information acquiring unit, a data-format information acquiring unit, a selecting unit, and a delivery unit. The plural plug-ins respectively correspond to plural types of devices. Each plug-in controls storage of data format information indicative of a format usable in a corresponding type of device and destination identifying information indicative of a destination device and transmitting data to the device. The receiving unit receives a data transmission request. The destination-identifying information acquiring unit acquires the destination identifying information from the plug-in. The data-format information acquiring unit acquires the data format information from the plug-ins. The selecting unit receives a selection of destination identifying information acquired. The delivery unit delivers, by using the plug-ins, data converted into the data format identified by the data format information acquired to the destination device identified by the destination identifying information selected.
US09547460B2 Method and system for improving cache performance of a redundant disk array controller
An information handling system includes a method, information handling system, and redundant array of independent disks (RAID) controller. When a write request is received, data are written to a non-volatile memory write cache. When a read request is received, it is determined whether the data are available from a volatile memory read cache. When the data are available from the volatile memory read cache, the data are obtained from the volatile memory read cache and provided in response to the read request. When the data are not available from the volatile memory read cache, the data are obtained from a RAID virtual disk coupled to the RAID controller, the data are stored in the volatile memory read cache, and the data are provided in response to the read request.
US09547458B2 Intra-rack and inter-rack erasure code distribution
Methods, computing systems and computer program products implement embodiments of the present invention that include detecting multiple sets of storage objects stored in a data facility including multiple server racks, each of the server racks including a plurality of server computers, each of the storage objects in each set being stored in a separate one of the server racks and including one or more data objects and one or more protection objects. A specified number of the storage objects are identified in a given server rack, each of the identified storage objects being stored in a separate one of the server computers, and one or more server computers in the given server rack not storing any of the identified storage objects are identified. Finally, in the identified one or more server computers, an additional protection object is created and managed for the identified storage objects.
US09547457B1 Detection of file system mounts of storage devices
Various systems and methods for selecting resources (such as of a distributed storage system) for detection of file system mounts of storage devices. For example, one method involves obtaining first information by performing an access of file information. The file information indicates attributes of data blocks stored by a storage device. The storage device includes the storage information. The first access is performed at a first time. The method also involves obtaining second information by performing another access of the file information, at a second time. The method also involves calculating a difference between the first information and the second information. The method involves determining, based on the difference, whether the device was dismounted between the first time and the second time.
US09547455B1 Allocating mass storage to a logical server
Mass storage is allocated to a logical server. The logical server is deployed to a real server.
US09547453B2 Method for layered storage of enterprise data
A computer-implemented method for layered storage of enterprise data comprises receiving from one or more virtual machines data blocks; de-duplicating the data blocks per hypervisor; storing de-duplicated data blocks in a local cache memory; time-based grouping the data blocks into data containers; dividing each data container in X fixed length mega-blocks; for each data container applying erasure encoding to the X fixed length mega-blocks to thereby generate Y fixed length mega-blocks with redundant data, Y being larger than X; and distributed storing the Y fixed length mega-blocks across multiple backend storage systems.
US09547452B2 Saving log data using a disk system as primary cache and a tape library as secondary cache
Various embodiments are provided for saving a log data in a hierarchical storage management system using a disk system as a primary cache with a tape library as a secondary cache. The user data is stored in the primary cache and written into the secondary cache at a subsequent period of time. Blank tapes in the secondary cache are prepared for storing the user data and the log data, based on priorities. At least one of the blank tapes is selected for copying the log data and the user data from the primary cache to the secondary cache based on priorities.
US09547451B2 Writable clone data structure
A memory system including parent data and clone data is disclosed, where the clone data represents a clone of the parent data. The system determines whether clone data to be accessed is different from corresponding data in the parent. The system also determines a physical location of the data to be accessed based on whether the data to be accessed is different from the corresponding parent data. The system also accesses the data based on the physical location.
US09547445B2 Method and system for monitoring and analyzing quality of service in a storage system
Methods and systems for monitoring quality of service (QOS) data for a plurality of storage volumes are provided. QOS data is collected for the plurality of storage volumes and includes a response time in which each of the plurality of storage volumes respond to an input/output (I/O) request. An expected range for future QOS data based on the collected QOS data is generated. The process then determines a deviation of each potential bully storage volume of a resource used by any victim storage volume, where the deviation of each bully storage volume is based on a number of current I/O requests (IOPS) that are processed by each potential bully storage volume, a forecasted value of TOPS and a predicted upper threshold TOPS value for each potential bully storage volume; and filters the potential bully storage volumes based on an impact of each potential bully storage volume.
US09547442B2 Memory device including wireless antenna
According to one embodiment, a memory device includes a memory, a first controller, a wireless antenna, a memory unit, and a second controller. The first controller controls the memory. The memory unit is capable of operating by the wireless antenna. The second controller is capable of operating by the wireless antenna, reads data from the memory unit when receiving a read instruction, and outputs the data using the wireless antenna.
US09547440B2 Managing a set of blocks in a storage system
Disclosed aspects include management of a set of blocks in a storage system. A set of write requests is initiated to the set of blocks. In response to the set of write requests, a set of expiration metadata for the set of blocks is established. Based on the set of expiration metadata, an expiration event is detected. In response to detecting the expiration event, an expiration operation on the set of blocks is processed.
US09547438B2 Gesture based user interface for augmented reality
Technologies are generally described for systems and methods effective to provide a gesture keyboard that can be utilized with a virtual display. In an example, the method includes receiving sensory information associated with an object in proximity to, or in contact with, an input device including receiving at least one level of interaction differentiation detected from at least three levels of interaction differentiation, interpreting a command from the sensory information as a function of the at least one level of interaction differentiation, and outputting an action indication based on the command.
US09547437B2 Method and system for scanning preview of digital media
A device configured for a scanning preview of digital media includes: a database, a touch-sensitive display, and a processor. The database is configured to store a plurality of media files and a plurality of images, each image of the plurality of images corresponding to a media file of the plurality of media files. The touch-sensitive display is configured to display an indicator and a two-dimensional grid, the two-dimensional grid including the plurality of images the indicator indicating a first image of the two-dimensional grid. The processor is configured to: play a first media file corresponding to the first image; detect a first gesture on the touch-sensitive display; move the two-dimensional grid displayed on the touch-sensitive display in response to detecting the first gesture such that the indicator indicates a second image of the two-dimensional grid; and play a second media file corresponding to the second image.
US09547435B2 Rendering across terminals
A graphical user interface is generated at a mobile communication terminal having a first touch screen of a first size, the graphical user interface including one or more touch screen input options. The generated graphical user interface is transmitted from the mobile communication terminal and to a vehicle communication terminal having a second touch screen of a second size. An indication of touch screen input received at the second touch screen of the vehicle communication terminal is received at the mobile communication terminal and from the vehicle communication terminal. A function corresponding to the touch screen input received at the second touch screen of the vehicle communication terminal is executed at the mobile communication terminal.
US09547431B2 Consuming data on a touchscreen device
System and computer program product to consume data on a mobile device. Data records are outputted according to a columnar or row orientation in a first panel of an application. Four other panels, each initially hidden from view, are defined to receive data from the user via a predefined touchscreen gesture. If an orientation of the gesture matches the orientation of the data records, the set of data records is either archived or deleted to a respective panel, of the four other panels, according to a direction of the gesture and a predefined action associated with that direction. If the orientation of the gesture is transverse to the orientation of the data records, individual data records are archived or deleted to a respective panel, of the four other panels, according to a direction of the gesture and a predefined action associated with that direction.
US09547430B2 Provision of haptic feedback for localization and data input
Various technologies pertaining to provision of haptic feedback to users of computing devices with touch-sensitive displays are described. First haptic feedback is provided to assist a user in localizing a finger or thumb relative to a graphical object displayed on a touch-sensitive display, where no input data is provided to an application corresponding to the graphical object. A toggle command set forth by the user is subsequently identified; thereafter, an input gesture is received on the touch-sensitive display, and second haptic feedback is provided to aid the user in setting forth input data to the application.
US09547428B2 System and method for touchscreen knob control
Disclosed herein are systems, methods, and non-transitory computer-readable storage media for controlling a user interface. A system configured to practice the method displays a user interface element, such as a knob, on a touch-sensitive display. The system receives input from a user associated with the user interface element via the touch-sensitive display. For example, the user can provide input to the knob via a tap, twist, flick, press-and-hold, drag, slide, or other touch-based input with a single or multiple fingers or other points of contact. The system matches the input to an input category selected from a group of predefined input categories for the user interface element, and updates the user interface element based on the input and based on the input category. The system can also update a value represented by the user interface element, such as a value that affects output or other settings of a software application.
US09547425B2 Context-specific user interfaces
Context-specific user interfaces for use with a portable multifunction device are disclosed. The methods described herein for context-specific user interfaces provide indications of time and, optionally, a variety of additional information. Further disclosed are non-transitory computer-readable storage media, systems, and devices configured to perform the methods described herein.
US09547424B1 Querying publisher goal and customizing suggestions to achieve goal
This disclosure generally relates to systems and methods that facilitate querying a content publisher for their goal(s) in employing a content sharing site and providing customized suggestions, such as recommendations, site tools, site dashboards, and site displays to assist in achieving the goal(s). Additionally, the specified goals are employed in conjunction with monitoring publisher interactions with the content sharing site to learn behaviors that that predict a publisher goal.
US09547421B2 Apparatus and method for managing operations of accessories
A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a computing device having a controller to present a plurality of associable actions and a plurality of accessories of distinct operational types, associate an action with an input function of a select one of the plurality of accessories, monitor the selected accessory for a stimulation of the input function, and transmit the action to an operating system to launch a first software application or to convey to a second software application the action or an aspect of the action. Additional embodiments are disclosed.
US09547419B2 Reduced size configuration interface
An electronic device with a camera invokes a wireless communications pairing mode for pairing the electronic device with an external device. The electronic device obtains an image via the camera. The image contains a pattern displayed on a display screen of the external device, and the pattern comprises identifying information of the external device. The electronic device receives data from the external device, determines whether the received data corresponds with the identifying information, and, in response to a determination that the received data corresponds with the identifying information, registers the external device as a paired device. In some examples, the electronic device is a smartphone and the external device is a wearable electronic device. Pairing the electronic device and the external device may allow the devices to exchange information and operate interactively with one another.
US09547418B2 Electronic device and method of adjusting user interface thereof
An electronic device includes a control unit, an environment sensor unit configured to detect working environment of the electronic device to get a detected environment information, a storage unit configured to store a preset environment threshold, and a display unit. The control unit is configured to compare the detected environment information with the preset environment threshold, determine a type of the working environment of the electronic device, and controls the display unit to adjust user interface or interaction mode of the electronic device, according to the type of the working environment of the electronic device. A method of adjusting a user interface of an electronic device is also provided.
US09547417B2 Retracting shortcut bars, status shortcuts and edit run page sets
At least one example embodiment discloses a method for generating a touch screen display. The method includes establishing a first run screen associated with a first function of a work vehicle and establishing a second run screen associated with a second function of the work vehicle distinct from the first function and defining an order of appearance of the first run screen and the second run screen within a set of run screens that allows a user to select a run screen in the set of run screens that are displayable in accordance with the defined order.
US09547413B2 Managing ephemeral locations in a virtual universe
Systems and methods for advertising, and, more particularly, systems and methods for managing ephemeral locations in a virtual universe. A method for managing ephemeral locations in a virtual universe (VU) includes causing a computer infrastructure to: render an ephemeral location upon a triggering in the VU; teleport a VU user avatar to the ephemeral location; permit the user avatar to interact in the ephemeral location; teleport the user avatar out of the ephemeral location; and un-render the ephemeral location.
US09547411B2 Navigation of a graphical representation
Embodiments include a system, method and computer program product for navigating a graphical representation displayed in a graphical user interface (GUI). According to one embodiment, the method includes receiving, at a computer system, a first input indicating a selection of a source element, receiving a second input indicating a relationship for the source element, identifying one or more target elements having a relationship with the source element, and displaying the one or more target elements identified within a visible area of a display.
US09547408B2 Quantifying frustration via a user interface
Described herein are methods, apparatuses, systems, programs, etc., to modify a user interface implemented in a communication network associated with a plurality of mobile devices. In one embodiment, a mobile device may sense a user's mood data that indicates a quantified frustration parameter based at least in part on interaction of a user with a user interface. The user interface may be updated accordingly.
US09547401B2 Touch panel
A touch panel includes a driving layer and a sensing layer. The driving layer has a first top surface and a driving layer edge. The first top surface has at least one first connecting region. The driving layer edge surrounds the first connecting region and there is a first distance between the first connecting region and the driving layer edge. The sensing layer is disposed on the first top surface of the driving layer. The second top surface of sensing layer away from the driving layer has at least one second connecting region. The sensing layer edge of the sensing layer surrounds the second connecting region, and there is a second distance between the sensing layer edge and the at least one second connecting region.
US09547400B2 Interference detection using frequency modulation
This disclosure generally provides embodiments to reduce the likelihood that an input device fails to detect an interfering signal when performing interference detection using interference bursts that are phase offset from sensor bursts used to perform capacitive sensing. In one embodiment, the input device adjusts the frequency of the interference bursts instead of using interference bursts with the same frequency. Doing so adjusts the phases of the interference bursts relative to each other such that even if one of the interference bursts is aligned with the interfering signal in a manner that the signal is not detected, an interference burst with a different frequency has a different alignment relative to the interfering signal. The measurements acquired by the differently aligned interference burst can be used to detect the presence of the interfering signal.
US09547392B2 Mobile terminal and controlling method thereof
A method of controlling a mobile terminal, and which includes entering, via a controller controlling a camera of the mobile terminal, a camera photograph mode; determining, via the controller of the mobile terminal, a position of a first pointer contacting a touchscreen in the camera photograph mode and whether the first pointer is in a first state or a second state when the first pointer is located in a preset region on the touchscreen; ignoring a touch input through the pointer, when the first pointer is determined as being in the first state; and performing a function corresponding to the touch input through the pointer, when the first pointer is determined as being in the second state.
US09547388B2 Touch input device
A touch input device capable of detecting a pressure of a touch on a touch surface includes: a display module including a display panel; a substrate which is located under the display module and is spaced apart from the display module by a spacer layer; and a pressure electrode. An electrical signal, which is changed according to a capacitance between the pressure electrode and the substrate, is detected from the pressure electrode, and the capacitance changes depend on a change of a relative distance between the pressure electrode and the substrate, such that the pressure of the touch is detected based on the capacitance.
US09547387B2 Method for manufacturing organic light emitting display
A method for manufacturing an organic light emitting display comprises forming a touch pad portion in a part of a dead region of the second buffer layer and the touch pad portion comprises a plurality of touch pads and each of the touch pads comprises a metal pad layer and a transparent electrode pad layer connected to each other via a plurality of first contact holes in a first insulating film.
US09547382B2 Mobile electronic device
A first cabinet comprising a first display module and a second cabinet comprising a second display module are provided. A switching is allowed between: a first state in which the first cabinet is placed on top of the second display module and the first display module faces outside, and a second state in which the first cabinet and the second cabinet are arranged next to each other and the first display module and the second display module face outside. A first screen to be displayed by the first display module and a second screen to be displayed by the second display module are stored and a screen switching operation is detected. Displaying of the first screen on the first display module is canceled and the second screen is displayed on the first display module, when the screen switching operation is detected in the first state.
US09547379B2 Method, air mouse, and set top box for controlling air mouse
A method for controlling an air mouse is disclosed. The method includes receiving a control mode of an air mouse sent by a set top box; acquiring angular velocities and moving time of the air mouse at various directions; determining speeds of the air mouse at various directions according to the control mode and the angular velocities of the air mouse at various directions; and calculating displacements of the air mouse at various directions according to the moving time and the speeds of the air mouse at various directions, and sending the displacements of the air mouse at various directions to the set top box, so as to control movement of a screen cursor.
US09547377B2 Trackball module, ultrasonic image processing apparatus using trackball module and method of controlling ultrasonic image processing apparatus using trackball module
An ultrasonic image processing apparatus includes a trackball module configured to receive a control command from a user, and a controller configured to generate a control command for the trackball module and transfers the generated control signal to the trackball module. The trackball module includes a trackball configured to receive a control command from a user, and a lighting device. The lighting device includes a light source, an optical passage bent at least once to provide an optical path through which light emitted from the light source passes while being reflected at least once, and a light exit opening defined at one end of the optical passage from which light passing through the optical passage is emitted to an outside of the lighting device. The light exit opening is defined around the trackball.
US09547371B2 User interface apparatus and method for controlling the same
The present disclosure relates to a multi-dimensional user interface apparatus that selects an object by sensing a motion of a user and a control method thereof.The user interface apparatus according to the present disclosure includes an eye gaze sensing unit to sense eye positions and eye gaze directions of a user, and a hand shape sensing unit to sense a hand shape of the user, wherein the user interface apparatus calculates a position factor related to a location of an object from the eye positions and the eye gaze directions, calculates at least one conformity factor related to a conformity between the hand shape and the object from the hand shape, and determines the object as a target selected by the user based on the calculated position factor and the at least one conformity factor.
US09547366B2 Systems and methods for haptic and gesture-driven paper simulation
Systems and methods for haptic and gesture-driven paper simulation are disclosed. For example, one disclosed method includes the steps of receiving an electronic document; receiving metadata associated with the electronic document, the metadata comprising a characteristic indicating a type of paper; generating and transmitting a display signal configured to cause display of the at least a portion of the document; and generating and transmitting a haptic signal based on the type of paper, the haptic signal configured to cause a haptic output device to generate a haptic effect.
US09547361B2 Methods and apparatuses for memory power reduction
Methods and apparatuses for memory power reduction are provided. The apparatus determines whether to store data into a DRAM or an NVRAM during an idle state of a processor based on power consumption by the DRAM in association with refreshing the data in the DRAM and use of the data stored in the DRAM by the processor, based on power consumption by the NVRAM in association with use of the data stored in the NVRAM by the processor, and based on a duty cycle associated with current drawn in a first power state and a second power state in association with the data. The NVRAM is a type of non-volatile random-access memory other than flash memory. The processor stores the data into one of the DRAM or the NVRAM based on the determination whether to store the data in the DRAM or the NVRAM.
US09547358B2 Branch prediction power reduction
In one embodiment, a microprocessor is provided. The microprocessor includes a branch prediction unit. The branch prediction unit is configured to track the presence of branches in instruction data that is fetched from an instruction memory after a redirection at a target of a predicted taken branch. The branch prediction unit is selectively powered up from a powered-down state when the fetched instruction data includes a branch instruction and is maintained in the powered-down state when the fetched instruction data does not include an instruction branch in order to reduce power consumption of the microprocessor during instruction fetch operations.
US09547356B2 Context aware power management for graphics devices
Systems, apparatus and methods are described related to context aware power management for graphics devices.
US09547354B2 System and method for increasing current monitor power telemetry accuracy
Systems and method for increasing current monitor accuracy are disclosed. The systems and methods may include receiving a run-time load value from a current monitor, determining a component parameter value associated with the run-time load value, and communicating the component parameter value to the current monitor.
US09547353B1 Processor energy monitoring and dynamic adjustment
Customers in a multi-tenant environment can obtain energy consumption information for a set of resources or other computing components used by those customers, including time-accurate accounting for various components of those resources utilized on behalf of the customer. A customer can also have the ability to specify how the resources are to be operated when used for the customer, in order to manage the amount of energy consumption. The accounting can be performed even when the resources are shared among multiple users or entities. Various hardware components or agents can be used to provide detailed energy consumption information for those components that is associated with a particular customer. The information can be used not only for accounting and monitoring purposes, but also to make dynamic adjustments based on various changes in usage, energy consumption, or other such factors.
US09547351B2 Power supply apparatus
There is provided a power supply apparatus including: a first power supply unit including a transformer switching and transforming an input power, and converting the input power into a first power and providing the first power to a main output terminal and a standby output terminal; a second power supply unit converting the input power into a second power and provide the second power as an operating power of the first power supply unit; and a main switching unit intermitting supplying of the first power from the first power supply unit to the main output terminal.
US09547350B2 Network powered device
Example embodiments disclosed herein relate to determining whether power is supplied at a power level to a network powered device. A network connector can be used to provide power and communications to the network powered device. The network powered device can represent itself to power sourcing equipment as a device using power at the power level. An indicator indicates whether power is supplied at the power level.
US09547347B2 Circuit device for power compensation in integrated controller
A circuit device for power compensation in an integrated controller configured by integrating two or more different electronic control modules, which enable any one of the electronic control modules to receive power supplied from another electronic control module even though an abnormal operation occurs in the electronic control module. That is, the circuit device provides for power compensation in an integrated controller configured by integrating two or more different electronic control modules respectively having independent power circuits, which enable any one of the electronic control modules to immediately receive power supplied from another electronic control module even though an abnormal operation occurs in the electronic control module, thereby easily preventing the abnormal operation of the integrated controller.
US09547341B2 Information processing apparatus
An information processing apparatus includes a first case and a second case. A connection assembly connects the first case to the second case such that the cases are rotatable about a shaft member disposed in the connection assembly. The connection assembly includes a first link member attached at one end to the first case and at another end to a second link member included in the second case, and a spring assembly attached at one end to the second link member and at another end to the second case. A torque is generated by the connection assembly relative to the shaft member in a direction corresponding to one or more of a closed state and an open state. The torque is generated in the direction corresponding to the closed state when respective front surfaces of the cases are separated by less than a predetermined polar angle.
US09547340B2 Portable terminal having flexible display
A portable terminal, including a first housing including opposing first and second sides, a second housing including opposing first and second sides, a hinge connecting the first sides of the first and second housings, a flexible display including a first end disposed in the second side the first housing, a second end disposed in the second side of the second housing, and a driver configured to drive the display, wherein the first housing and the second housing are configured to rotate on the hinge to form an angle in therebetween such that a corresponding portion of the display is exposed, and the driver is configured to output driving signals corresponding to the angle to the flexible display, such an image is displayed on the exposed portion of the flexible display.
US09547339B2 Smart flexible display
In one example an electronic device, comprises a base section and a display connectable to the base section and comprising a flexible emissive projection display (EPD) layer, and an electroactive polymer (EAP) structure coupled to the EPD layer. Other examples may be described.
US09547338B2 Electronic device with injection molded display trim
An electronic device may be provided with a display. The electronic device may include a housing. A display trim may be formed from injection molded plastic that is molded directly onto the housing. The molded plastic trim may form a rectangular ring around the periphery of the housing. The housing may have angled or curved interior surfaces that are covered by the molded plastic trim. Computer-controlled positioners may be used to center the housing within an injection molding tool. Independently controlled positioners may also be used in capturing the housing between the lower die and the upper die in the injection molding tool. The injection molding tool may inject thermoplastic elastomer material into a channel in the upper die to form the plastic display trim.
US09547332B1 Accurate time capture and transfer between clock domains
A method includes requesting a time maintained in a first clock domain, receiving, in a second clock domain, a first time value from the first clock domain in response to requesting the time maintained in the first clock domain, determining, in the second clock domain, a latency associated at least with receiving the first time value from the first clock domain, and determining a second time value based on the first time value and the determined latency.
US09547331B2 Apparatus and method to set the speed of a clock
Disclosed is an apparatus and method to set the speed of a clock. A computing device may include a processor and a scheduler of the processor, the scheduler may be configured to: receive a plurality of votes for requested bandwidths from a plurality of different execution environments; sum the requested bandwidths; and set the clock speed based upon the sum of the requested bandwidths.
US09547323B2 Current sink stage for LDO
An LDO circuit with a current sink stage reduces significantly overshooting of the output voltage due to sudden changes of output current. The activation of the current sink stage is independent of the overshoot percentage of the regulated output voltage. The disclosure doesn't require large output capacitors to avoid the possibility of brownouts of chips supplied by the LDO.
US09547322B1 Configuration modes for optimum efficiency across load current
A voltage regulator circuit and a method to control the voltage regulator circuit. The voltage regulator circuit comprising an AC switching regulator, a DC switching regulator, a linear voltage regulator and switches to configure the voltage regulator circuit for improved efficiency across a wide load range.
US09547317B2 Information processing device, information processing method, and storage medium
An information processing device includes a memory; and a processor coupled to the memory and configured to obtain data including a temperature in a space where each of a plurality of air conditioning apparatuses is installed, a temperature outside the space, and power consumption of the plurality of air conditioning apparatuses, calculate a factor to obtain relationship between the temperature in the space, the temperature outside the space, and the power consumption related to each of the plurality of the air conditioning apparatuses based on the obtained data, and calculate, in a case of changing a setting temperature of the plurality of air conditioning apparatuses, a change width of each of the setting temperatures of the plurality of air conditioning apparatuses in such a manner that variation in the change width becomes a control unit using an objective function expressing a cost of a power supplier and the calculated factor.
US09547314B2 System and method for controlling vehicle acceleration
A system according to the principles of the present disclosure includes an acceleration delta module and a remedial action module. The acceleration delta module determines an acceleration delta of a vehicle based on a difference between an actual acceleration of the vehicle and a desired acceleration of the vehicle. The acceleration delta module also determines an average value of the acceleration delta corresponding to at least one of a first predetermined period and a predetermined number of samples of the acceleration delta. The remedial action module, based on the average value of the acceleration delta and independent of a torque command generated to accelerate the vehicle, selectively takes a remedial action by adjusting operation of at least one of an engine and an electric motor.
US09547313B2 Code replacement for irrigation controllers
Some embodiments provide irrigation controllers comprising: a housing; a control unit including a first microcontroller configured to execute irrigation programs and a first set of code; and a removable plug-in device that removably mates with a portion of the irrigation controller and communicationally couples to the first microcontroller, wherein the plug-in device comprises a memory storing a second set of code to replace at least a portion of the first set of code, wherein the plug-in device is configured to re-flash at least a portion of the first set of code allowing a copy of the second set of code to overwrite at least the portion of the first set of code; wherein the first set of code comprises a bootloader that writes the copy of the second set of code over the first set of code with the exception of the bootloader that is not written over.
US09547311B2 Planning and monitoring of autonomous-mission
The presently disclosed subject matter includes a method and system of planning autonomous mission, the mission being executed by one or more autonomous agents. A generic mission template is obtained, the generic mission template being constructed from a plurality of mission-objects and defines logical connections between the plurality of mission-objects, wherein each mission-object is configured to logically represent a respective type of mission-element; one or more mission-object in the generic mission template are associated with a respective real world mission-element, thereby generating a specific mission plan; with the help of a processor an agent-specific mission plan is generated for the one or more agents, based on the generic mission template and the specific mission plan, wherein an agent specific mission plan comprises tasks assigned to a respective designated agent and is compatible with the technical requirement of the respective designated agent.
US09547310B2 Mobile object control system, mobile object control method and non-transitory recording medium
A mobile object control system includes a mobile object body, a distance measurement unit provided in the mobile object body to measure a distance between the mobile object body and an object present in front of the mobile object body with infrared rays, a movement control unit controlling the movement of the mobile object body based on a measurement result obtained by the distance measurement unit and moving path information, a moving direction limit information storage unit storing moving direction limit information as information on limiting a moving direction of the mobile object body, and a moving path information generation unit generating the moving path information based on the moving direction limit information. The moving direction limit information is information on limiting the moving direction in which a predetermined amount or more of infrared rays emitted from an external light source are radiated onto the mobile object body.
US09547307B1 Attempting to pull over for autonomous vehicles
Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a vehicle having one or more computing devices that may receive instructions to pick up a passenger at a pickup location and determine when the vehicle is within a first distance of the pickup location. When the vehicle is within the first distance, the computing devices may make a first attempt to find a spot to park the vehicle and wait for the passenger. When the vehicle is unable to find a spot to park the vehicle on the first attempt, the computing devices may maneuvering the vehicle in order to make a second attempt to find a spot to park the vehicle and wait for the passenger. When the vehicle is unable to find a spot to park the vehicle on the second attempt, the computing devices may stop the vehicle in a current lane to wait for the passenger.
US09547304B2 Computer-implemented system and method for attribute-based manufacturing quality control
A computer-implemented system and method for attribute-based manufacturing quality control is provided. A specification for manufacturing a part feature is maintained in a database, the specification including a nominal. Also maintained in the database are one or more measurements for the feature on a plurality of parts manufactured in accordance with the specification, each of the measurements associated with one or more attributes, each of the attributes identifying at least one of a circumstance relating to how that measurement was made and how the feature was manufactured. A user selection of one or more of the attributes is received. Each of the measurements that is associated with all of the selected attributes is identified. A score indicative of how close the identified measurements are to the nominal is calculated and displayed.
US09547302B2 Automation system and method for clock time, process, and/or machine optimization
Automation system with computerized numerical control includes at least two data processing levels, particularly a data block preparation level and a data block processing level, and a clock time-registering unit assigned to the particular data processing levels for registering clock times of subsystems in the particular data processing levels, and a unit for comparing the clock times—and relating them to each other in terms of time—registered for the particular data processing levels.
US09547297B2 Field device and field device software update system therewith
There is provided a field device for downloading a new software through a field bus from a host system and replacing a current software which is currently executed with the new software. The field device includes: a history information generation and management section which generates and stores history information of the current software when the new software is downloaded from the host system.
US09547296B2 Method for operating an industrial controller and industrial controller
Regarding a method for operating an industrial controller, a control program executable in a processor that is arranged in the industrial controller is subdivided into a main block and several program blocks. The program blocks are processed under event control that takes a processing priority into consideration. The processor includes a multi-core processor having a plurality of independent sub-processors. The method includes assigning the main block to a first sub-processor, and executing a part program associated with the main block in the first sub-processor. The method also includes assigning each of the several program blocks to the additional sub-processors, and executing the part programs associated with the program blocks in the respective sub-processors. The method further includes operating a control device to evaluate as input variables the processing priority and an event assigned to the respective program block, and switching the sub-processors into active or inactive state using the evaluation.
US09547292B2 Input device, input method, and electronic apparatus that suppresses information leakage
An input device includes a touch panel and a control unit. The touch panel is configured to be switched between a normal operation mode and a special operation mode. The control unit is configured to control the touch panel. In the special operation mode, the control unit is configured to: generate a special-operation-mode-based input portion based on a continuous contact with the touch panel; and accept a release of the continuous contact with the touch panel as an input to the special-operation-mode-based input portion.
US09547289B2 Field-configurable user interface circuit and method of installation
A method includes determining a type of controller used by an electronic device and determining a connector configuration of the electronic device. The method further includes selectively cutting one or more wires of a ribbon cable of a user interface circuit in response to determining the type of controller to configure the user interface circuit for operation with the type of controller.
US09547288B2 Information processing apparatus and method for controlling the same
An information processing apparatus includes a switching unit configured to switch between supply and cutoff of power to the information processing apparatus, a driving unit configured to cause the switching unit to be OFF-state to cut off the supply of power to the information processing apparatus, and a control unit configured, in a case where a predetermined condition is satisfied, to drive the driving unit to cause the switching unit to be OFF-state, in which, if the supply of power to the information processing apparatus is not cut off in response to the control unit driving the driving unit, the control unit reboots the information processing apparatus.
US09547282B2 Wearable device with wireless transmission and method for manufacturing the same
The present invention provides a wearable device with wireless transmission. The wearable device includes: a first exterior member configured to operate at a first frequency band; a second exterior member configured to operate at a second frequency; and a connecting member configured to electrically insulate the first exterior member from the second exterior member, so the wearable device is able to operate at the first frequency band and the second frequency band simultaneously. A frame structure of the wearable device is formed by stacking the first exterior member, the connecting member and the second exterior member in sequence from top to bottom. In addition, a method for manufacturing the same is also provided in the present invention.
US09547280B2 Device for detecting and synchronising the position of a wheel of a timepiece mechanism
A device for detecting and synchronizing a position of at least one first wheel of a timepiece mechanism for an electronic analog wristwatch, includes this first wheel extending in a plane. The detection and synchronization device includes at least one light source emitting a light beam and at least one light detection system. A first light-reflecting element projects from one of an upper or lower surfaces of the first wheel of the timepiece mechanism. The light source and the light detection system are arranged so that in a determined position of the first wheel of the timepiece mechanism, the light beam emitted by the light source is reflected by the first light-reflecting element in the direction of the light detection system. The detection and synchronization device is housed within a case of the wristwatch.
US09547279B2 Calendar display device for a timepiece
Grand date calendar display device for a watch movement comprising a first disc and a second disc, arranged to display, on certain dates, first date values by combining symbols borne by said first disc and symbols borne by said second disc, and on other dates, second date values by symbols borne only by said second disc. The first disc is a modified units display disc, bearing a first series of symbols comprising a first sequence of at most nine first consecutive units numerals truncated by at least a second units numeral with respect to the complete series of ten units, and the second disc is a modified tens display disc including a second series of symbols for the display of at least the tens of the date, comprising at least one combination of two numerals formed of a tens numeral and a second units numeral.
US09547272B2 Cleaning blade and cleaning device
To provide a cleaning blade having an elastic body portion containing urethane rubber and a support member supporting the elastic body portion.A free end portion of the elastic body has a first region in which the Young's modulus gradually decreases in the depth direction from the principal surface facing the surface of the member to be cleaned on the edge face side and a second region in which the Young's modulus does not vary in the depth direction from the principal surface on the side closer to the support member relative to the first region.
US09547265B2 Fixing device
A fixing device includes a heating unit including an endless belt and a heating plate, a fixing roller to form a nip portion, a frame including a first sidewall and a second sidewall, a first shaft that the fixing roller has, a second shaft disposed upstream of the nip portion, and a third shaft disposed downstream of the nip portion. One end portion of the first shaft, one end portion of the second shaft and one end portion of the third shaft are supported by the first sidewall. The other end portion of the first shaft, the other end portion of the second shaft and the other end portion of the third shaft are supported by the second sidewall. When viewed from the longitudinal direction, the nip portion is positioned in a triangle defined by imaginary lines connecting the first, second and third shafts to each other.
US09547264B2 Image heating apparatus having a controller for generating magnetic flux in a coil to generate heat
An image heating apparatus for heating an image includes a cylindrical rotatable member including an electroconductive layer; a helical coil provided in the rotatable member, the coil having a helix axis extending along a generatrix direction of the rotatable member; a magnetic core provided in the coil and having an end portion; and a controller configured to control a frequency of an AC current supplied to the coil; wherein the image is heated by heat of the rotatable member heated by electromagnetic induction heat generation of the electroconductive layer, wherein the controller sets the frequency to a first frequency corresponding to a size of a recording material, and wherein the controller sets the frequency to a second frequency higher than the first frequency when a print ratio of the image is larger than a predetermined value.
US09547262B2 Fixing device with receiving portion configured to receive information corresponding to width of recording material from external terminal and image forming apparatus including such fixing device
A fixing device detachably mountable to an image forming apparatus, includes: a pair of rotatable members forming a nip configured to fix a toner image on a recording material by heat and pressure; a receiving portion capable of receiving information corresponding to the width of a recording material from an external terminal so as to limit a use of the fixing device; and a storing portion configured to store the information received by the receiving portion.
US09547260B2 Electrostatic printing
Disclosed herein is a method for electrostatic printing, wherein the method comprises (a) providing an ink composition comprising particles comprising a resin, wherein the ink composition contains less than 0.3 mg of charge director per g of solids in the ink composition; (b) passing the ink composition between a first electrode and a developer roller, wherein sufficient potential is applied between the developer roller and the electrode such that the resin particles are charged and adhere to the developer roller; (c) transferring at least some of the particles from the developer roller to a photoimaging plate to form an image on the photoimaging plate; and (d) transferring the image from the photoimaging plate to a print medium. Also disclosed here is an apparatus for carrying out the method, and a print medium printed using the method.
US09547259B2 Development device
A development device used for an image forming apparatus includes a frame member, a developer bearing member configured to develop a latent image formed on an image bearing member using developer, and an edge portion sealing member provided between an edge portion in a rotational axis direction of the developer bearing member and the frame member to prevent the developer from leaking to an outside of the development device from between the edge portion and the frame member, and including, in a state of being compressed between the edge portion and the frame member, a layer that includes an aggregate of a plurality of foam cells in which a foam cell communicating with an adjacent cell via a communication hole and a foam cell not communicating with an adjacent cell are mixed in a direction from an inside of the development device to the outside thereof.
US09547257B2 Developer pump with restricted detection time and image forming device
An image forming apparatus includes a developer conveyance device to transport developer, using a positive-displacement pump to alternately generate positive pressure and negative pressure by changing a volume of an internal space thereof, a destination developer container to which the developer conveyance device transports developer, a sensor provided to the destination developer container, to detect developer in the destination developer container, and a controller to control the positive-displacement pump according to a detection result generated by the sensor. The controller disabled detection of developer by the sensor in a non-detection period that starts from a stop of the positive-displacement pump.
US09547256B2 Developing device, image forming apparatus, and process cartridge
A developing device includes a storing unit that stores an electrostatic charge image developing toner, and a developer holding member that is provided to have a gap with an image holding member and holds the toner on a surface, wherein the developing device develops an electrostatic charge image formed on a surface of the image holding member by the toner on the developer holding member through a non-contact development to form a toner image, and wherein the toner has a sea and island structure of a sea portion containing a binder resin and an island portion containing a release agent, a maximum frequent value in distribution of the eccentricity B of the island portion is from 0.75 to 0.95, and a skewness in the distribution of the eccentricity B is from −1.10 to −0.50, and the eccentricity B is defined in the specification.
US09547255B2 Process cartridge detachably attached to a main body of an electrophotographic apparatus
There is provided a developing unit capable of suppressing a memory to leave on a developing roller even when held under high-temperature and high-humidity conditions for a long period of time before the start of use.The developing unit has a developing roller and a toner regulating member in contact with each other with resin particles therebetween. The resin particles have a toluene absorbency of 20 g or more and 50 g or less per 40 g of the resin particles and a Martens hardness of 1.0 N/mm2 or more and 50.0 N/mm2 or less.
US09547254B2 Semiconductive roller
A semiconductive roller (1) is provided, which is formed from a rubber composition containing a rubber component including: (1) an epichlorohydrin rubber; (2) at least one solid rubber selected from the group consisting of a solid BR and a solid SBR; and (3) at least one liquid rubber selected from the group consisting of a liquid BR and a liquid SBR.
US09547253B2 Developing cartridge having electrode
A developing cartridge includes a casing, a developer-carrying member, a supply member, a developing electrode, a supply electrode, and an insulating member. The casing is configured to accommodate therein developer. The developer-carrying member is configured to rotate about a rotational axis and carry the developer thereon. The supply member is configured to supply the developer to the developer-carrying member. The developing electrode is configured to be electrically connected to the developer-carrying member. The supply electrode is configured to be electrically connected to the supply member. The insulating member insulates the developing electrode and the supply electrode with each other. The developing electrode, the insulating member, and the supply electrode are overlapped in this order in an axial direction of the rotational axis.
US09547246B2 Aqueous dispersions for use as toners
A compound that includes an aqueous dispersion, wherein the dispersion includes a thermoplastic resin and at least one stabilizing agent, and at least one selected from the group consisting of a colorant and a magnetic pigment, wherein the dispersion has an average volume diameter particle size from about 0.05 to about 10 microns is described.
US09547243B2 Apparatus and method for providing fluid for immersion lithography
An immersion lithography system and method exposes a substrate through a liquid. The substrate is exposed through the liquid, which is provided between a final optical element of a projection lens and the substrate. The liquid is recovered from an upper surface of the substrate via a recovery opening of an immersion apparatus under which the substrate is positioned, the immersion apparatus being disposed around the final optical element of the projection lens. The a pressure for recovering the liquid from the upper surface of the substrate via the recovery opening is controlled by a pressure control system, the pressure control system having a first tank connected to the recovery opening via a recovery flow line and a vacuum regulator to control a pressure in the first tank.
US09547242B2 Lithography apparatus, and method of manufacturing article
The present invention provides a lithography apparatus which forms a pattern on a substrate, the apparatus including an optical unit including a plurality of optical systems each of which irradiates the substrate with a beam for forming the pattern and which are arranged in at least one of a first direction and a second direction orthogonal to an optical axis thereof, and a pair of interferometers configured to measure a rotation angle of the optical unit around an axis parallel to the optical axis, wherein a distance between measurement axes of the pair of interferometers is not small than longer one of a distance between optical axes of two optical systems, of the plurality of optical systems, farthest away from each other in the first direction and a distance between optical axes of two optical systems, of the plurality of optical systems, farthest away from each other in the second direction.
US09547238B2 Photoresist with rare-earth sensitizers
A method of making a photoresist with rare-earth sensitizers is provided. The rare-earth sensitizer could be a salt or a rare-earth complex. According to the invention, photoresist composition is useful to pattern circuits by visible light.
US09547237B2 Colored photo-sensitive composition, color filter, and method for manufacturing color filter
Provided is a colored photo-sensitive composition having a high sensitivity and a good developablity, even if the ratio of content of a pigment, relative to the total solids of the colored photo-sensitive composition, is 20% by mass or more. The colored photo-sensitive composition includes (A) a resin which is increased, by action of an acid, in solubility into an alkali developing solution; (B) a pigment; (C) a compound which produces an acid upon irradiated by active light or radial ray; and (D) a solvent, wherein the ratio of content of the (B) pigment, relative to the total solids of the colored photo-sensitive composition, is 20% by mass or more.
US09547234B2 Imprint lithography apparatus and method
An imprint lithography apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus includes an imprint template arrangement for use in imprinting a pattern into a substrate provided with an amount of imprintable medium, a substrate holder configured to hold the substrate, and a chamber having an inlet to allow gas to flow into the chamber and an outlet to allow gas to flow out of the chamber, wherein the imprint template arrangement and the substrate holder are located within the chamber, the chamber, in use, being arranged to contain a gaseous atmosphere. The chamber may be part of a gas circulation system, the inlet and outlet of the chamber being connected to further components of the gas circulation system, the further components of the gas circulation system including: a gas circulation driver configured to drive gas around the gas circulation system; and/or a gas purification unit configured to purify the gas as it circulates around the gas circulation system.
US09547231B2 Device and method for making photomask assembly and photodetector device having light-collecting optical microstructure
An optical mask can be made by providing a transparent mask substrate; depositing a first layer of opaque material, forming an aperture in the first layer; depositing a second layer of transparent material, depositing a third layer of transparent material; patterning the third layer to produce a disc-shaped region, heating the third layer until the disc-shaped region reflows into a lens-shaped region and cross-links, depositing a fourth layer, patterning the fourth layer to produce a cavity extending to the surface of the lens-shaped region, and dry etching the end of the cavity until the second layer develops a shape corresponding to the lens-shaped region.
US09547230B2 Method for evaluating optical image of pattern, recording medium, and information processing apparatus
A method being performed by a processor includes, acquiring data of patterns of a plurality of cells that include an identified pattern for which an evaluation value of an optical image falls outside a first allowable range among patterns in which each a pattern being single cell alone, creating the pattern of a mask by arranging the patterns of the plurality of cells that include the identified pattern, and evaluating an optical image of the identified pattern in the created pattern of the mask.
US09547229B2 Index matched grating inscription
The disclosed embodiments provide systems and methods for mitigating lensing and scattering as an optical fiber is being inscribed with a grating. The disclosed systems and methods mitigate the lensing phenomenon by surrounding an optical fiber with an index-matching material that is held in a vessel with a sealed phase mask. The sealed phase mask allows it to be in contact with a liquid index-matching material without having the liquid index-matching material seep into the grooves of the sealed phase mask. Thus, for some embodiments, the sealed phase mask may be immersed in a liquid index-matching material without adversely affecting the function of the phase mask.
US09547224B2 Projector with a therm-sensitive component for overheating protection
A projector includes an apparatus casing, a light source module, a flow generating device, a sensing module, and a power module. The light source module is disposed inside the apparatus casing and includes a light-emitting part and a lampshade surrounding the light-emitting part. The flow generating device can generate an air flow for dissipating heat by the light source module. The sensing module is disposed in the apparatus casing and includes a thermo-sensitive component disposed near the lampshade and located in a flowing path of the air flow. The power module is disposed in the apparatus casing and electrically connected to the light source module and the sensing module. The power module selectively stops powering the light source module according to an electric parameter of the thermo-sensitive component. Thereby, the invention protects the projector from being overheated by use of the thermo-sensitivity of the thermo-sensitive component.
US09547221B2 Video projection device
A video projection device includes an optical engine which projects video light, an aspherical mirror which reflects the video light projected by the optical engine with a reflective surface formed in a rotationally symmetrical shape centering on an optical axis, a reflective screen on which the video light reflected by the aspherical mirror is projected, a shielding housing which houses the optical engine, the aspherical mirror, and an electric circuit portion which electrically drives the optical engine, and a strut member which connects a rear surface portion of the shielding housing, and a rear surface portion of the reflective screen in a state where the rear surface portion of the shielding housing and the rear surface portion of the reflective screen are positioned.
US09547219B2 Photographing apparatus having an external optical component connector and method of controlling the same
Provided is a photographing apparatus. The photographing apparatus includes: a main body having an image pickup device disposed therein; a middle cover disposed in a back side of the main body and includes a first opening disposed to correspond to a position of the image pickup device; a first connector formed on the middle cover and around the first opening, where the first connector is configured to couple to an external optical component and is disposed so that the an optical axis of the image pickup device coincides with an optical axis of the external optical component, when the external optical component is coupled to the first connector; and a rear cover disposed on the middle cover and includes a second opening disposed to correspond to the position of the image pickup device.
US09547218B2 Lens module and portable photography device
Provided is portable photography device capable of appropriately control an on/off state of a light source during photography, and reliably carrying out photography by a camera of a portable terminal when the light source is on. The portable photography device includes a smartphone with a camera, and a lens module including LEDs, having different wavelengths, a conversion lens, and light source control unit. The smartphone includes light on/off detection unit that detects the on/off state of each of the LEDs, photography control unit that controls photography by the camera, and display control unit that associates a photographed image taken by the camera with the LEDs, for display on the screen of the smartphone. As a result, it is possible to appropriately control the on/off state of the LEDs, during carrying out photography and reliably photographing skin with the camera of the smartphone.
US09547216B2 Lens moving unit and camera module having the same
One embodiment of a lens moving unit includes a bobbin mounted with at least one sheet of lens and arranged at a periphery with a coil unit, a cover member mounted with a magnet at a position corresponding to that of the coil unit, upper and bottom elastic members respectively coupled at one distal end to upper and bottom surfaces of the bobbin to support movement of the bobbin to an optical axis direction, and a detection unit to detect a movement parallel to an optical axis of the bobbin, wherein the detection unit includes a sensing magnet mounted at a periphery of the bobbin, and a position detection sensor arranged at a lateral wall of the cover member and formed at an inner lateral surface opposite to the sensing magnet, wherein the bobbin includes a correction magnet mounted at a side opposite to that of the sensing magnet.
US09547213B2 Display device
A display device including a first substrate, a second substrate, a display element layer, a non-transparent structure, an optical guiding structure and a reflective layer is disclosed. The second substrate is disposed opposite to the first substrate adjacent to a display surface of the display device. The display element layer is disposed between the first and the second substrates. The non-transparent structure, located between the optical guiding structure and the display element layer, defines at least one opening of the display device. The optical guiding structure corresponds to the one opening. The optical guiding structure includes a plurality of insulating structures each having a first surface adjacent to the non-transparent structure and side surfaces connected to the first surface. The reflective layer is disposed on the side surfaces. The ambient light entering via the second substrate is reflected by the reflective layer and exists via the opening.
US09547210B2 Liquid crystal display panel and array substrate
This invention discloses a liquid crystal display panel and an array substrate. The liquid crystal display device comprises a first substrate, a second substrate, a liquid crystal layer sandwiched between the first substrate and the second substrate. There are a plurality of scan lines and data lines on the first substrate. The liquid crystal display panel are divided into multiple pixel areas by the scan lines and data lines. The area of the main pixel area is getting larger and the area of the sub-pixel area is getting smaller from a edge to a center of the liquid crystal display panel, and voltage applied on the sub-pixel area when displaying is smaller than the main pixel area. This design enhances the brightness uniformity of the liquid crystal display panel and eliminate the whiting issues in the side edges.
US09547208B2 Divided backlight configuration of a display
A device may comprise a display panel; a backlight; a printed circuit board, wherein the backlight is between the display panel and the printed circuit board; one or more lights, wherein the one or more light sources are directly connected to the printed circuit board, and one or more light coupling units, wherein each light coupling unit is configured to guide light, when emitted by a corresponding light source of the one or more light sources, to the backlight, and wherein the backlight guides the light towards the display panel.
US09547205B2 Display device
According to one embodiment, a display device includes a first line extending in a first direction, an insulating layer covering the first line, a second line disposed on the insulating layer and extending in a second direction, and a drive circuit including an output line extending in the first direction and connected to the first line through a contact portion. The contact portion includes a first portion to which the first line is connected at a first position, and a second portion to which the output line is connected at a second position which is apart from the first position in the second direction, the second portion facing the first portion with the insulating layer interposed therebetween while being electrically connected to the first portion.
US09547204B2 Pixel matrix and display using the same
A pixel matrix includes pixel units. The pixel units are arranged in a repeating pattern, in which each of the pixel units includes transparent pixels, reflective pixels, and switch components. Each of the transparent pixels includes a transparent electrode and a transparent color resist layer disposed on the transparent electrode. Each of the reflective pixels includes a reflective electrode. The switch components are connected to the transparent electrodes of the transparent pixels and the reflective electrodes of the reflective pixels respectively for driving the transparent pixels and the reflective pixels individually.
US09547203B2 Liquid crystal display
A liquid crystal display including a first substrate, a pixel electrode on the first substrate and including a first subpixel electrode and a second subpixel electrode separated from the first subpixel electrode, a second substrate facing the first substrate, a common electrode on the second substrate, and a liquid crystal layer between the first substrate and the second substrate, wherein the first subpixel electrode includes a first plate-shaped portion and first branch electrodes extending from the first plate-shaped portion, wherein the second subpixel electrode includes a second plate-shaped portion configured to enclose surroundings of the first branch electrode and second branch electrodes extending from the second plate-shaped portion, and wherein a difference between a first voltage applied to the first subpixel electrode and a common voltage applied to the common electrode is larger than a difference between a second voltage applied to the second subpixel electrode and the common voltage.
US09547197B2 Fabrication method of display device and display device
Provided is a fabrication method of a display device. The method includes providing an alignment solution on at least one of a first substrate and a second substrate, curing the alignment solution to form a main alignment layer, and providing a liquid crystal composition including liquid crystal molecules to form a liquid crystal layer between the first substrate and the second substrate. The alignment solution or the liquid crystal composition includes a reactive mesogen represented by the following Formula 1.
US09547192B2 Display device
A display device includes a front panel wholly bonded on a display part of a display module via OCR (a transparent optical elastomeric resin). If a dam for preventing the OCR from being infiltrated is overflowed, the OCR is inhibited from being infiltrated and diffused into an inside of the module. The display device includes a display module including upper and lower substrates, a case receiving the upper and lower substrates, and a bezel with an opened display part, mounted in the case part, and further including a front panel wholly bonded on a display part of the display module described above via a transparent optical elastomeric resin, and a resin dam disposed on a surface of the upper substrate along an open end of a reverse side of the bezel part, wherein at least a part of the resin dam is apart from the bezel part.
US09547191B2 Liquid crystal display
A liquid crystal display according to an embodiment includes a first light-emitting device that emits short-wavelength light of a wavelength 360 nm to 420 nm and a second light-emitting device that emits visible light. Electrodes of the liquid crystal display includes a light-guiding electrode that drives a liquid crystal contained in the liquid crystal layer to emit the short-wavelength light and a pixel electrode that drives the liquid crystal contained in the liquid crystal layer to emit the visible light. The photoreceptors are each a phototransistor including a transparent channel layer containing two metallic oxides or more from gallium, indium, zinc, hafnium, tin, and yttrium. The photoreceptors include a first photoreceptor overlaps with the blue filter in the plan view and a second photoreceptor overlaps with the green filter, the red filter, or the black matrix in the plan view.
US09547189B2 Liquid crystal display device
A liquid crystal display device includes a liquid crystal module; a printed circuit board providing driving signals to the liquid crystal module; and an installation unit including first, second and third parts, wherein the first part is attached to the liquid crystal module, the second part faces the first part and is attached to the printed circuit board, and the third part connects the first and second parts.
US09547186B2 Light modulators and optical apparatuses including the same
Provided are examples of light modulators and optical apparatuses that may include the light modulators. A light modulator may include a plasmonic nano-antenna and an element for changing plasmon resonance characteristics of the plasmonic nano-antenna. The plasmon resonance characteristics of the plasmonic nano-antenna may be changed due to a change in refractive index of the element, and thus light may be modulated.
US09547183B2 Method for determining an ophthalmic lens
The invention relates to a method for determining an ophthalmic lens wherein: a first and a second reference axes are determined, the first reference axis is comprised between [γT−20°, γT+20° ] with γT being the mean axis of astigmatism over a first temporal portion, and the second reference axis is comprised between [γN−20°, γN+20° ] with γN being the mean axis of astigmatism over a second nasal portion; a combined reference axis is determined as a linear combination of the first and second reference axes; over the first portion, the sphere value along the combined reference axis is greater than the sphere value along a perpendicular axis to the combined reference axis; and over the second portion, the sphere value along the combined reference axis is greater than the sphere value along a perpendicular axis to the combined reference axis.
US09547181B2 Diffractive optical element, design method thereof and application thereof to solar cell
Disclosed are a diffractive optical element, a design method thereof and the application thereof in a solar cell. The design method for a design modulation thickness of a sampling point of the diffractive optical element comprises: calculating the modulation thickness of the current sampling point for each wavelength component; obtaining a series of alternative modulation thicknesses which are mutually equivalent for each modulation thickness, wherein a difference between the corresponding modulation phases is an integral multiple of 2π; and selecting one modulation thickness from the alternative modulation thicknesses of each wavelength to determine the design modulation thickness of the current sampling point. In an embodiment, the design method introduces a thickness optimization algorithm into a Yang-Gu algorithm. The design method breaks through limitations to the modulation thicknesses/modulation phases in the prior art and increases the diffraction efficiency, and the obtained diffractive optical element facilitates mass production by a modern photolithographic technique, which greatly reduces the cost. The diffractive optical element may also be applied to the solar cell, which provides an efficient and low-cost way for solar energy utilization.
US09547179B2 Method and system for shaped glasses and viewing 3D images
Shaped glasses have curved surface lenses and spectrally complementary filters disposed on the curved surface lenses configured to compensate for wavelength shifts occurring due to viewing angles and other sources. The spectrally complementary filters include guard bands to prevent crosstalk between spectrally complementary portions of a 3D image viewed through the shaped glasses. In one embodiment, the spectrally complementary filters are disposed on the curved lenses with increasing layer thickness towards edges of the lenses. The projected complementary images may also be pre-shifted to compensate for subsequent wavelength shifts occurring while viewing the images.
US09547177B2 Refractive beam shaper
A refractive beam shaper that includes multiple meniscus lenses arranged along their optical axes. Each meniscus lens has a concavely curved surface for entry or exit of a light beam and a convexly curved surface for exit or entry of the light beam. Both surfaces have curvatures such that a collimated light beam entering the respective meniscus lens parallel to an optical axis thereof exits again, as a collimated light beam, with a diameter that is altered compared with the entering light beam. To prevent aberrations, at least one of the two surfaces of each meniscus lens has a predetermined aspherical shape.
US09547176B2 Device for generating laser radiation having a linear intensity distribution
The invention relates to a device for generating laser radiation (3) having a linear intensity distribution (11), comprising a plurality of laser light sources for generating laser radiation (3) and optical means for transforming laser radiation (3) exiting from the laser light sources into laser radiation (14) that has a linear intensity distribution (11) in a working plane (9), wherein the laser light sources are constructed as fundamental mode lasers and the device is designed such that each of the laser beams (3) exiting from the laser light sources does not overlap with itself.
US09547175B2 Adaptive piezoelectric array for bone conduction receiver in wearable computers
Example embodiments may relate to methods and systems for adapting an array of piezoelectric transducers, placed on a head-mounted device (HMD), to different head sizes. For example, an HMD (e.g., a wearable computer) may include an array of transducers that are configured to operate as bone conduction transducers (BCTs), and alternatively as pressure sensors. In particular, methods and systems may be implemented to determine a respective power level for each vibration transducer in the array based at least in part on a determined mechanical load on each transducer in the array. Once the respective power level for each vibration transducer is determined, the system may cause each vibration transducer in the array to operate at the determined respective power level.
US09547172B2 Vehicle image display
A heads up display system includes a computer that is programmed to receive data from one or more sources in a vehicle. The computer is further programmed to identify respective subsets of the data to be provided to respective ones of a plurality of display devices, and to provide the respective subsets of the data to the respective display devices.
US09547169B2 Electro-optical device, method of manufacturing electro-optical device, electro-optical unit, and electronic apparatus
In an electro-optical device, light is incident on a mirror by penetrating a cover, and the light reflected by the mirror is emitted by penetrating the cover. Here, the cover includes a first light-transmitting plate and a second light-transmitting plate facing the first light-transmitting plate, and a gap which is open toward both sides in a first direction is provided between the first light-transmitting plate and the second light-transmitting plate due to a spacer.
US09547167B1 Fabrication method for top plate and spacers for an electrowetting display
A method for fabricating an electrowetting display may include disposing an etching barrier on a substrate to delineate a first region and a second region of the substrate, the etching barrier covering the second region of the substrate; etching the first region of the substrate to form an etched first region of the substrate, wherein at least a portion of the second region of the substrate is a protrusion formed in response to the etching of the first region; removing the etching barrier; disposing a black matrix on the second region of the substrate; and forming a spacer over the black matrix disposed on the second region of the substrate.
US09547166B2 Actuator control device, optical module, and electronic apparatus
A spectroscopic measurement apparatus includes an actuator that is driven by applying a drive voltage, a gap detector that detects a dimension of a gap, and a voltage control section including a feedback loop that controls the drive voltage depending on a detection result of the gap detector. The voltage control section includes a comparator that outputs a voltage signal at a High level VH if an absolute value of a deviation between a drive amount of the actuator and a setting value of the drive amount exceeds a predetermined threshold based on the detection result after a predetermined time elapses from the start of driving of the actuator.
US09547161B2 Single focal length lens system and image pickup apparatus using the same
A single focal length lens system includes a front lens unit and a rear lens unit, and does not include any other lens unit. The front lens unit includes a first lens unit having a positive refractive power, a second lens unit having a negative refractive power, and a third lens unit having a negative refractive power. Each of the first lens unit and the second lens unit includes a positive lens and a negative lens, and the first lens unit and the second lens unit do not move all the time. An aperture stop is disposed on the image side of the second lens unit. Any one of the lens units positioned on the image side of the second lens unit is a focusing lens unit, and the following conditional expression (1) is satisfied: 0.06<|fG3/f|<0.4  (1)
US09547158B2 Imaging lens and imaging apparatus equipped with the imaging lens
An imaging lens consists of five lenses, including: a first lens having a positive refractive power with a convex surface toward the object side, a second lens having a negative refractive power, a third lens having a positive refractive power and a meniscus shape with a convex surface toward the object side, a fourth lens having a negative refractive power and a meniscus shape with a convex surface toward the image side, and a fifth lens having a negative refractive power with a concave surface toward the image side, the image-side surface thereof having at least one inflection point, and the first lens, the second lens, the third lens, the fourth lens, and the fifth lens being disposed in this order from the object side; wherein, the imaging lens satisfies a predetermined conditional formula.
US09547157B2 Optical imaging lens and electronic device comprising the same
In an optical imaging lens set a first lens of positive refractive power has an object-side surface with a convex portion around the optical axis and a convex portion around its periphery, an image-side surface with a convex portion around its periphery, a second lens of negative refractive power has an object-side surface with a concave portion around its periphery, a third lens has an image-side surface with a concave portion around its periphery, a fourth lens has an image-side surface with a convex portion around the optical axis, a fifth lens has an object-side surface with a concave portion around its periphery, a sixth lens has an image-side surface with a concave portion around the optical axis and a convex portion around its periphery. The sum of total five air gaps AAG and a second lens thickness T2 satisfy AAG/T2≦3.6.
US09547151B2 Imaging lens system and electronic apparatus employing the same
An imaging lens system is provided. The imaging lens system includes a first lens that includes a convex object side surface and has a positive refractive power; a second lens that includes a concave image plane side surface and has a negative refractive power; a third lens that has a positive or negative refractive power; a fourth lens that includes a convex image plane side surface and has a positive or negative refractive power; a fifth lens that includes a convex image plane side surface and has a negative refractive power; and a sixth lens that has a negative refractive power, wherein the first through sixth lenses are arranged in order from an object side to an image plane side.
US09547147B2 Fiber optic cable with extruded tape
A fiber optic cable includes a tape comprising a substrate of an extrudable thermoplastic, core items of the fiber optic cable, and a jacket around the tape and core items. The tape includes water-swellable material integrated therewith and the core items include one or more optical fibers. The tape is incorporated with core items such that the water-swellable material of the tape is configured to limit water from flowing lengthwise along the cable through gaps among the core item.
US09547146B2 Tamper sensitive fiber optic cable
A fiber optic cable including an inner guard layer surrounding a core containing at least one optical fiber; and an outer guard layer surrounding the inner guard layer; wherein the inner guard layer includes at least one metal tube with at least one optical fiber inside the tube; and wherein the outer guard layer includes at least one metal tube with at least one optical fiber inside the tube.
US09547139B2 Optical couplings having a coded magnetic array, and connector assemblies and electronic devices having the same
Optical couplings for optically coupling one or more devices are disclosed. According to one embodiment, an optical coupling includes an optical coupling body, an optical interface, and a coded magnetic array located at the optical coupling body. The coded magnetic array has a plurality of magnetic regions configured for mating the optical interface. The optical coupling further includes a reflective surface within the optical coupling body and positioned along an optical path of the optical coupling body. The reflective surface is operable to redirect an optical signal propagating within the optical coupling body such that it propagates through the optical interface. The optical coupling may be configured as a plug, such as a plug of a connector assembly, or as a receptacle, such as a receptacle on an electronic device. Connector assemblies of optical cables, optical coupling receptacles, and translating shutter assemblies are also disclosed.
US09547138B2 Light receiving module having built-in wavelength-tunable wavelength-selective filter
A light receiving module having a built-in wavelength-tunable wavelength-selective filter that can selectively receive light with a specific wavelength from laser light with various wavelengths emitted from an optical fiber and tune the specific wavelength. In the light receiving module including a light receiving element having a built-in wavelength-tunable wavelength-selective filter that receives laser light from an optical fiber according to the present invention, a flat plate-shaped window (240) transmitting laser light from an optical fiber (600) is formed in the light receiving element (22), a wavelength-tunable wavelength-selective filter for separating wavelengths of laser light traveling as parallel light is disposed in the light receiving element (22), and a lens (400) converting laser light from the optical fiber (600) into parallel light is disposed between the optical fiber (600) and the light receiving element (22).
US09547135B2 Connector and electronic device using the connector
A transmission connector includes a transmission optical module having a signal electrode inputting/outputting an electric signal and a transmission receptacle having a contact to be electrically connected to the signal electrode when fitted to the transmission optical module. The transmission modules includes a second cutout for preventing erroneous fitting to a reception receptacle. The transmission receptacle includes a first projection for preventing erroneous fitting to a reception optical module.
US09547130B1 Dynamic variable optical attenuator with dual directional tapping
An attenuator device includes a housing that forms a channel configured to receive an optical fiber. The optical fiber includes a first fused fiber tap for a first signal direction and a second fused fiber tap for a second signal direction. The attenuator device also includes (a) a first bend control region, in series with the channel and aligned with the first fused fiber tap; (b) a first bend-inducing object that moves to selectively contact the first fused fiber tap in the first bend control region to alter a bend radius at the first fused fiber tap; (c) a second bend control region, in series with the channel and aligned with the second fused fiber tap; and (d) a second bend-inducing object that moves to selectively contact the second fused fiber tap in the second bend control region to alter a bend radius at the second fused fiber tap.
US09547126B2 Optical waveguide sheet, optical unit, and method for manufacturing the same
An optical waveguide sheet, includes: an optical path; and a clad member that covers the optical path, wherein the clad member has a portion formed by removing a part of the clad member which is on a first surface of an optical waveguide sheet on which the optical component is to be mounted and is provided within an area which is unused for propagation of light input to and output from the optical component.
US09547124B2 Waveguide structure for mid-IR multiwavelength concatenated distributed-feedback laser with an active core made of cascaded stages
Concatenated distributed feedback lasers having novel waveguides are disclosed. The waveguides allow for coupling of the laser beam between active and passive waveguide structures and improved device design and output efficiency. Methods of making along with methods of using such devices are also disclosed.
US09547115B2 Display device
A display device includes a light source, a mirror reflection guide member, a diffusion reflection member, and a display panel. The light source extends in a first direction and is configured to emit light. The mirror reflection guide member is configured to: support the light source, and guide at least some of the light to a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction. The mirror reflection guide member includes a plurality of guide patterns extending in the second direction and arranged in the first direction. The diffusion reflection member is configured to guide at least some of the light to a third direction substantially perpendicular to the first and second directions. The display panel is disposed on the mirror reflection guide member and the diffusion reflection member and is configured to display an image using the light guided by the diffusion reflection member.
US09547114B2 Illumination apparatus confining light by total internal reflection and methods of forming the same
In various embodiments, an illumination apparatus includes an air gap between a sub-assembly and a waveguide attached thereto at a plurality of discrete attachment points, as well as a bare-die light-emitting diode encapsulated by the waveguide.
US09547113B2 Polarizing filter and display device
The present invention discloses a polarizing filter and a display device. The polarizing filter comprises a polarization layer and a conductive layer provided on one side of the polarization layer. In the present invention, the conductive layer is provided on the polarization layer, thus, when the electrostatic charge are present on the color film substrate having the polarizing filter, the electrostatic charge may be shielded by the conductive layer, and will not adversely affect the liquid crystal molecule between the color film substrate and a array substrate celled to the color film substrate even if the charge are present on a surface of the color film substrate, such that the display quality of the display panel having the color film substrate and the array substrate is improved. In addition, there is no need to provide a conductive tape used to guide the electrostatic charge out of the color film substrate in the display panel, so as to prevent some undesirable phenomenon, such as local uneven force on the panel, light leak and glue residue and the like, caused by the arrangement of the conductive tape.
US09547112B2 Polarized enhanced confidentiality
A system for selectively controlling visibility of information in an environment is provided. The system includes one or more polarized emissive screens and polarized non-emissive surfaces located within the work environment. The screens have a first direction of polarization and the surfaces have a direction of polarization substantially aligned with the first direction of polarization. Information displayed on the screens and surfaces are visible to a person inside the work environment. The work environment includes at least one window which permits viewing of the polarized emissive screens and non-emissive surfaces from outside of the work environment. A polarizing filter having a second direction of polarization arranged at an angle to the first direction of polarization is positioned proximate to the window. A person outside the work environment can see inside the environment through the window, but has an altered view of the information on the displays and surfaces.
US09547110B2 Color filter substrate and method of manufacturing the same, display apparatus
The present invention discloses a color filter substrate comprising a substrate; and a color filter layer disposed on the substrate. The color filter layer comprises at least two color regions, and at least two alignment marks, corresponding to the at least two color regions respectively, disposed on a perimeter zone of the substrate. Each of the alignment marks is configured to have a block structure, and at least one of the alignment marks is provided with a recess in a top thereof.
US09547108B2 Optical diffusion blend materials for LED lighting
The invention relates to blend materials useful in LED lighting applications. The diffusing particle blend is a synergistic mixture of selected organic particles and selected inorganic particles of specific composition, loading, and a refractive index difference with the matrix polymer, that provide excellent light diffusion, high hiding properties and good light transmission. Articles made of this blend are useful in commercial and residential lighting, motor vehicle illumination (lights, panels), street lighting, displays and signs.
US09547106B2 Electronic bucket-type precipitation meter
Disclosed is an electronic bucket-type precipitation meter including: an inclined bucket which extends at an angle from one edge to the center so as to collect rainwater; a measurement bucket which extends downward so that the rainwater is collected at the center of the inclined bucket, wherein a measurement unit is installed on a side surface thereof so as to measure the collected rainwater; a covering part in which the upper covering part is formed at the upper part thereof and has an inclined contact surface having the same incline as the inclined bucket, and in which the lower covering part is formed at the lower part thereof so as to block the bottom surface of the measurement bucket; and a lifting and lowering driving unit which lifts and lowers the cover part.
US09547104B2 Downhole sensor interrogation employing coaxial cable
The present invention is directed to methods and systems for oil field downhole sensing and communication during drilling and/or production, wherein such methods and systems utilize coaxial cable to transmit electromagnetic (EM) energy, continuously or as a pulse, to passive downhole sensors.
US09547103B2 Gradiometer and method of changing an optical path length to directly obtain a value of a gradient of gravity
A gradient of gravity is defined by a change in the optical path length required to maintain equality in optical path lengths of two beam arms which direct light beams to impinge upon and reflect from two freefalling test masses.
US09547102B2 Resistivity logging systems and methods employing ratio signal set for inversion
Electromagnetic resistivity logging systems and methods yielding formation anisotropy and dip from a signal set that closely approximates the response of a idealized tool. One illustrative method embodiment derives from an azimuthally-sensitive tool's measurements a full set of orthogonal direct couplings (Vxx, Vyy, Vzz) and a cross-coupling sum (Vxz+Vzx) or (Vyz+Vzy). These values are converted into a signal set as a function of borehole position, the set including: a first signal representing a ratio between Vzz coupling components at different spacing distances, a second signal representing a ratio between Vxx and Vzz coupling components, a third signal representing a ratio between Vyy and Vzz coupling components, a fourth signal representing a ratio between Vxx and Vyy coupling components, and a fifth signal representing a ratio between a cross-coupling sum and a sum of the direct couplings. From this signal set, formation parameters can be accurately determined by inversion.
US09547097B2 Marine vibrator sweeps
Marine seismic survey using one or more marine seismic vibrators, where the vibrator sweep function is based on a quality requirement, which may be a final image quality requirement or an environmental requirement. The sweep function may be nonlinear and the energy spectrum may not match the energy spectrum of an airgun.
US09547092B2 Apparatus and method of detecting X-ray, and X-ray imaging system
A method and apparatus for detecting an X-ray, the apparatus includes a detector which comprises a pixel array in which a plurality of pixels for detecting an X-ray transmitted by a body to be examined are arranged in a matrix form, a read-out unit which reads out electrical signals corresponding to the detected X-ray from the pixel array, and a reset controller which controls the pixel array to be reset after the X ray is detected, by performing switching so that the plurality of pixels of the pixel array are commonly connected to the reset power source.
US09547087B1 Sync feedback for time to first fix
In embodiments of sync feedback for time to first fix (TTFF), satellite data signals are received from which a geographic position of a positioning-system device can be determined. The satellite data signals each include a time reference and ephemeris data that indicates an orbital position of a satellite. A sync feedback is generated that includes a time-free position fix determined from a satellite data signal before bit sync and/or frame sync of the satellite data signal are obtained. The sync feedback is then utilized as a feedback input to determine the bit sync and/or the frame sync of the satellite data signal.
US09547084B2 Method and device for classifying watercraft
The invention relates to a method of classifying one or several watercraft using the sound waves emitted or transmitted by these vehicles. The sound waves are thereby received using an array of underwater sound sensors of a sonar receiving system and processed into received signals. At least one amplitude spectrum is generated from these received signals consisting of one or more sets of frequency lines and any individual lines, from which the characteristic vehicle parameters are automatically determined in a frequency line pattern detection module or determined manually. Subsequently, the vehicle characteristic parameters are compared with the database parameters, where this comparison is evaluated with a matching factor. Considering the matching factor, one or several watercraft are determined as the result of the classification. In addition, the invention relates to a corresponding device for carrying out the process.
US09547083B2 Determining whether a target object was present during a scanning operation
Methods, devices and systems for determining whether an object is detected by a scanner are disclosed. Fast-Fourier-Transforms (“FFT”) are determined, modified and evaluated. Each FFT may be determined with regard to a subset of gain-compensated pixel-values corresponding to pixel-values of an acquired image.
US09547080B2 Gaming object with orientation sensor for interacting with a display and methods for use therewith
A gaming object includes an orientation sensor that generates orientation data in response to the orientation of the gaming object. An actuator that generates interaction data in response to an action of a user. A transceiver sends an RF signal to a game device that indicates the orientation data and the interaction data. The game device generates display data for display on a display device that contains at least one interactive item, and wherein the at least one interactive item is interactive in response to the orientation data and the interaction data.
US09547079B2 Object tracking method and system
A system for tracking at least one object configured to be transported by at least one vehicle may include at least one computer system. The at least one computer system may be configured to determine at least one location of the at least one vehicle and determine at least one location of the at least one object. The at least one computer system may be further configured to determine at least one location of at least one geofence adjacent the at least one vehicle based on the at least one location of the at least one vehicle. Also, the at least one computer system may be configured to determine whether the at least one object is located within the at least one geofence to determine whether a load of the at least one vehicle includes the at least one object.
US09547078B2 Detection of radar objects using a radar sensor of a motor vehicle
In a method for detecting radar objects with the aid of a radar sensor of a motor vehicle, a transmitted signal has a sequence of frequency modulations, to each of which a partial signal of a measuring signal is assigned; first information about the relative velocity and the distance of a radar object is ascertained based on a frequency spectrum of at least one of the partial signals; second information about the relative velocity and the distance of the radar object is ascertained based on a frequency spectrum of a time curve of values of frequency spectra of the partial signals at a frequency position of the radar object in these frequency spectra; and the relative velocity and the distance of the radar object are ascertained based on matching of the first information with the second information.
US09547076B2 Elevation monopulse antenna synthesis for azimuth connected phase array antennas and method
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to monopulse radar antenna synthesis and methods thereof. An antenna array includes a number of sub-arrays operatively arranged in a first direction (e.g., azimuth), and each of the sub-arrays includes a number of antenna elements grouped as a first group and a second group adjacent to each other in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction. The antenna array can perform monopulse processing in the elevation direction by synthesizing two monopulse antennas by to form monopulse antennas with phase centers that differ in elevation.
US09547074B2 System and method for using combining couplers with asymmetric split ratios in a lidar system
A laser radar, or “lidar” system, employs an asymmetric single-ended detector to detect received signals reflected back from targets. The asymmetric single-ended detector benefits from a reduced part count and fewer optical splices while nearly achieving a same gain as a symmetric differential detector.
US09547072B2 Weather radar
Weather radar for measuring radar signals in the GHz range with a receiver containing at least one signal path, the receiver comprising a receiving facility for an incoming radar signal, on which a test signal generated by a test signal generator is superimposed in a coupler, and a processing device to amplify, filter and convert both signals to lower frequencies, wherein for filtering a matched filter is provided, and with an evaluation device in which calibration parameters of the signal path are derived from the test signal for the frequency of the test signal in order to determine the signal strength of the received radar signal, wherein the test signal is superimposed with at least one frequency differing from the frequency of the radar signal, so that the radar signal and the test signal are processed separately from one another by the evaluation device, and the calibration parameters of the signal path for the frequency of the radar signal are determinable from the test signal through a modeling of the frequency dependence of the calibration parameters for frequencies around those of the radar signal.
US09547069B2 Automotive radar transmitter architecture
One embodiment of the present invention relates to a transmitter within a single integrated chip substrate, which is capable of continuous beam steering of a transmitted radar beam as well as an option to change the physical position of the origin of the transmit radar beam. The transmitter has a signal generator that generates an RF signal. The RF signal is provided to a plurality of independent transmission chains, which contain independently operated vector modulators configured to introduce an individual phase adjustment to the high frequency input signal to generate separate RF output signals. A control unit is configured to selectively activate a subset of (e.g., two or more) the independent transmission chains. By activating the subset of independent transmission chains to generate RF output signals with separate phases, a beam steering functionality is enabled. Furthermore, the subset defines a changeable position of the transmitted radar beam.
US09547067B2 Method of estimating the position of a user device
Data concerning the strength of signals received from electromagnetic signal sources within a building is obtained at a plurality of points. Instead of storing the raw data for use in positioning, the data for each electromagnetic signal source is fitted to a function of received signal strength with distance from the electromagnetic signal source. This data is then used to estimate the position of a user device. The advantage of the invention is that the amount of data which requires to be stored is significantly reduced.
US09547061B2 Tumor segmentation and tissue classification in 3D multi-contrast
A medical imaging system (5) includes a workstation (20), a coarse segmenter (30), a fine segmenter (32), and an enclosed tissue identification module (34). The workstation (20) includes at least one input device (22) for receiving a selected location as a seed in a first contrasted tissue type and a display device (26) which displays a diagnostic image delineating a first segmented region of a first tissue type and a second segmented region of a second contrasted tissue type and identified regions which include regions fully enclosed by the first segmented region as a third tissue type. The coarse segmenter (30) grows a coarse segmented region of coarse voxels for each contrasted tissue type from the seed location based on a first growing algorithm and a growing fraction for each contrasted tissue type. The seed location for growing the second contrasted tissue type includes the first coarse segmented region and any fully enclosed coarse voxels, and each coarse voxel includes an aggregation of voxels and a maximum and a minimum of the voxel intensities. The fine segmenter (32) grows a segmented region of voxels for each contrasted tissue type from the seed location and bounded by the second coarse segmented region based on a second growing algorithm and a growing fraction for each contrasted tissue type initially set to the growing fraction for the corresponding region. The seed location for growing the second contrasted tissue type includes the first segmented region and any identified regions. The enclosed tissue identification module (34) identifies any regions of voxels fully enclosed by the first segmented region as being of the third tissue type. The coarse segmenter, the fine segmenter, and the enclosed tissue identification module are implemented by an electronic data processing device.
US09547059B2 Method for a rapid determination of spatially resolved magnetic resonance relaxation parameters in an area of examination
In a method for a rapid determination of spatially resolved magnetic resonance relaxation parameters in an area of examination, a preparation pulse is radiated into the area of examination. During the relaxation of the longitudinal magnetization, spatially encoded magnetic resonance signals are acquired at a minimum of two different points in time using a fast magnetic resonance sequence. At each inversion time, an image data record is reconstructed from the magnetic resonance signals, which are elastically registered to each other. From the recorded image data records, values of magnetic resonance relaxation parameters are spatially accurately determined.
US09547058B2 Automated MRI detection of tissue macromolecular T2/T2* characteristics using Z-spectra
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system and method (a) acquires k-space data for a patient ROI over a predetermined band of RF frequencies using RF excitation pulses having respectively corresponding RF frequencies incrementally offset from a nuclear magnetic resonant (NMR) Larmor frequency for free nuclei thus causing chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) effects and to process such acquired data into Z-spectra data for voxels in the ROI; (b) analyzes the acquired Z-spectra data to provide spectral peak width data corresponding to T2/T2* tissue values in the ROI for macromolecules participating in magnetization transfer contrast (MTC) effects producing said Z-spectra data; and (c) stores and/or displays data representative of T2/T2* tissue values of the ROI which values are different for different tissues.
US09547057B2 Noise suppression methods and apparatus
According to some aspects, a method of suppressing noise in an environment of a magnetic resonance imaging system is provided. The method comprising estimating a transfer function based on multiple calibration measurements obtained from the environment by at least one primary coil and at least one auxiliary sensor, respectively, estimating noise present in a magnetic resonance signal received by the at least one primary coil based at least in part on the transfer function, and suppressing noise in the magnetic resonance signal using the noise estimate.
US09547054B2 Receiving coil and local coil for magnetic resonance applications with adjustable lugs
A local coil for magnetic resonance applications includes a rigid housing that radially surrounds a substantially cylindrical examination volume. Arranged in the rigid housing is a transmitting coil, by which an excitation signal may be applied to the examination volume. An object to be examined arranged in the examination volume may be excited by the excitation signal for emitting a magnetic resonance signal. The local coil includes a size-variable structure, in which an antenna assembly for receiving the magnetic resonance signal emitted by the object to be examined is arranged. The size-variable structure is arranged in the examination volume and is connected to the rigid housing. The size-variable structure is soft and flexible.
US09547053B2 Method for monitoring patient exposure in a magnetic resonance device
A method for monitoring an exposure experienced by a patient during an examination with a magnetic resonance device having a transmitter device is provided. The method includes determining a coil power loss from measured amplitudes and phases of a first measuring device, and determining an overall transmitted power from voltage measurement values of the second measuring device. The method also includes determining a specific absorption rate (SAR) value describing a power entering a patient from the coil power loss and the overall transmitted power and comparing the SAR value with at least one limit value. A transmission operation of the transmitter device is terminated if the at least one limit value is exceeded.
US09547048B2 Circuit and method for reducing an offset component of a plurality of vertical hall elements arranged in a circle
Output signals from two or more vertical Hall elements arranged in a circle are combined is ways that reduce an offset voltage as the two or more vertical Hall elements are sequenced to generated a sequential output signal.
US09547047B2 Leakage current detection device with self-testing function
A leakage current detection device coupled to AC power supply wires carrying an AC signal, which includes: a leakage current detection circuit including a leakage current detector, the leakage current detection circuit operating during first half-cycles among positive and negative half-cycles of the AC signal to detect a leakage current of the power supply wires and to disconnect the power supply wires from an output side when a leakage current exceeding a first threshold value is detected; and a self-detecting circuit coupled to the leakage current detection circuit, operating during second half-cycles among the positive and negative half-cycles of the AC signal to test whether the leakage current detection circuit is functioning normally.
US09547046B2 Performance deterioration detecting apparatus and performance deterioration detecting method for energy storage device, and energy storage system
A performance deterioration detecting apparatus detects an initial state of sudden deterioration in performance of an energy storage device as a performance deterioration start state, and includes: a first acquiring unit configured to acquire a first maximum variation amount as a maximum value of a capacity variation amount that is a degree of variation in current carrying capacity relative to variation in voltage of the charged or discharged energy storage device, regarding a capacity-voltage property at a first time point, indicating relation between the capacity variation amount and the voltage; a second acquiring unit configured to acquire a second maximum variation amount as a maximum value of the capacity variation amount regarding the capacity-voltage property at a second time point after the first time point; and a performance deterioration determiner configured to determine that the energy storage device is in the performance deterioration start state at the second time point if a variation amount ratio as a ratio of the second maximum variation amount to the first maximum variation amount exceeds a predetermined value.
US09547044B2 Method and apparatus for the measurement of a resistance of a switching contact of an electrical circuit breaker
An apparatus and method for the measurement of a resistance of a switching contact of an electrical circuit breaker. A first resistance value across the circuit breaker is determined while the circuit breaker is grounded at both sides and the switching contact is closed. Further, a second resistance value across the circuit breaker is determined while the circuit breaker is grounded at both sides and the switching contact is open. The resistance of the closed switching contact is then determined based on the first resistance value and the second resistance value.
US09547042B2 IR enabled gating of TAP and WSP shift, capture, transfer
In a first embodiment a Test Access Port (TAP) of IEEE standard 1149.1 is allowed to commandeer control from a Wrapper Serial Port (WSP) of IEEE standard P1500 such that the P1500 architecture, normally controlled by the WSP, is rendered controllable by the TAP. In a second embodiment (1) the TAP and WSP based architectures are merged together such that the sharing of the previously described architectural elements are possible, and (2) the TAP and WSP test interfaces are merged into a single optimized test interface that is operable to perform all operations of each separate test interface. One approach provides for the TAP to maintain access and control of the TAP instruction register, but provides for a selected data register to be accessed and controlled by either the TAP+ATC (Auxiliary Test Control bus) or by the discrete CaptureDR, UpdateDR, TransferDR, ShiftDR, and ClockDR WSP data register control signals.
US09547035B2 System and method for converging current with target current in device under test
A test system measures parameters of a device under test (DUT), including a transistor. The test system includes a first voltage source unit for supplying a gate voltage; a second voltage source unit for supplying one of a drain voltage or a source voltage, the second voltage source having a current measurement device for detecting one of a drain current or a source current flowing through the transistor, respectively; a feedback unit for outputting a feedback current, based on the one of the drain or source currents; and an error amplifier for outputting a feedback control signal, based on comparison of the feedback current and a target current value. The first voltage source unit adjusts the gate voltage based on the feedback control signal so that the one of the drain or source currents converges to match the target current value.
US09547034B2 Monolithic integrated circuit die having modular die regions stitched together
An apparatus for a monolithic integrated circuit die is disclosed. In this apparatus, the monolithic integrated circuit die has a plurality of modular die regions. The modular die regions respectively have a plurality of power distribution networks for independently powering each of the modular die regions. Each adjacent pair of the modular die regions is stitched together with a respective plurality of metal lines.
US09547032B2 Frequency hopping ground monitor current sensing
An apparatus includes a signal generation module that injects a signal in a pilot conductor with one or more AC components. The pilot conductor is connected to a grounding conductor of power cables connecting a power source to a load. A frequency change module periodically changes a frequency of each of the AC components, a current monitor module monitors current in the pilot conductor or ground return, an AC detection module determines an AC current for each AC component, and an AC threshold module determines if one or more of the AC currents determined by the AC detection module is below an AC threshold. A trip module opens a contact in response to determining that at least one of the AC currents is below an AC threshold for longer than an AC current time threshold. The contact disconnects the power source from the set of power cables.
US09547027B2 Dynamically measuring power consumption in a processor
In one embodiment, the present invention includes a processor having multiple cores to independently execute instructions, a first sensor to measure a first power consumption level of the processor based at least in part on events occurring on the cores, and a hybrid logic to combine the first power consumption level and a second power consumption level. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US09547026B1 Plug-through energy monitor
The magnetic field in the vicinity of a conductor can be sensed by wire loops to measure the current in the nearby conductor. A sensor in a printed circuit board can detect and measure currents flowing through the PCB itself, yielding a thin, inexpensive, scalable solution for energy monitoring.
US09547024B2 Device for current measurement
A device for current measurement comprises a substrate with a first current conductor and a current sensor with a second current conductor. The current sensor is mounted above the first current conductor on the substrate. The second current conductor is formed with integrally attached first and second terminal leads through which the current to be measured is supplied and discharged. The current sensor further comprises a semiconductor chip with a magnetic field sensor mounted on the second current conductor on the side of the second current conductor facing the substrate. The magnetic field sensor is sensitive to a component of the magnetic field extending parallel to the surface of the semiconductor chip and perpendicular to the second current conductor. The second current conductor extends above and parallel to the first current conductor.
US09547021B2 Acceleration sensor
An acceleration sensor can ensure rigidity of its movable electrode despite a large number of through-holes formed in the movable electrode. The acceleration sensor has an SOI substrate in which a silicon oxide layer is formed on a silicon support layer and an active silicon layer is formed on the silicon oxide layer, wherein the active silicon layer of the SOI substrate has a movable electrode supported by elastic beams and configured with a weight, and also has fixed electrodes disposed in a fixed manner around the movable electrode to face the movable electrode, and wherein through-holes penetrating in a Z-axis direction are formed over the entire surface on the inner side of an outer circumference to which the elastic beams of the movable electrode are connected.
US09547019B2 MEMS tunneling micro seismic sensor
A tunneling accelerometer that can be implemented as a MEMS micro sensor provides differential sensing that minimizes large forces resulting from undesired environmental effects. Used as a seismic sensor, for example, the accelerometer exhibits maximum sensitivity for small seismic waves and suppresses very large seismic activities occurring at shallower depths. In one embodiment, detected current decreases from its maximum for stronger forces and is maximized for small vibrations. In another embodiment, separation of columns of top and bottom tunneling tip pairs, one column from the next, increases gradually so that the tunneling accelerometer suppresses sensitivity to large accelerations such as large seismic activity. A manufacturing process for the accelerometer provides reduced complexity for better yield.
US09547012B2 Diagnosis of parkinson's disease
A method of diagnosing Parkinson's disease uses the abnormal concentrations of a group of 21 blood serum protein biomarkers. The concentration of the 21 protein biomarkers is assessed in a patient's serum by quantitative two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis.
US09547011B2 Biocompatible and bioabsorbable derivatized chitosan compositions
The invention relates to biocompatible, bioabsorbable derivatized non-crosslinked chitosan compositions optionally crosslinked to gelatin/collagen by 1-ethyl-3-[3-dimethylaminopropyl]carbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC) for biomedical use and methods of making and testing such compositions, including a modified acute systemic toxicity test. The compositions comprise derivatized chitosan reacetylated to a degree of N-deacetylation (DDA) of between about 15% and 40%. The compositions are typically bioabsorbed in about 90 days or less and can be made to bioabsorb at differing rates of speed. The compositions are initially soluble in aqueous solution below pH 6.5. The compositions have an acid content that can be adjusted between about 0% (w/w) and about 8% (w/w) to customize the composition for uses that require and/or tolerate differing levels of cytotoxicity, adhesion, composition cohesion, and cell infiltration into the composition.
US09547010B2 Anti-idiotype antibody against an antibody against the amyloid β peptide
The present invention is directed to an anti-idiotype antibody binding to the complementary determining region of an antibody against the amyloid β peptide. In one embodiment said antibody binds to the same epitope or an overlapping epitope as the antibody obtainable from the cell line DSM ACC2939. Also reported is an immunoassay for the determination of an antibody against the amyloid β peptide and for determination of an anti-idiotype antibody binding to an antibody against the amyloid β peptide.
US09547009B2 Benzocyclooctyne compounds and uses thereof
Provided are benzocyclooctyne compounds of formula (I). These compounds undergo strain-promoted azide-alkyne cyclo additions (SPAAC) without presence of toxic metal catalysts. The provided compounds are useful for diagnosis and imaging of azide-containing molecules. Methods for detection and imaging biomolecules using compounds of the present disclosure are disclosed.
US09547003B2 Peptide tag systems that spontaneously form an irreversible link to protein partners via isopeptide bonds
Described herein is a protein capable of spontaneously forming an isopeptide bond for the development of a peptide tag and binding partner pair wherein the peptide tag and binding partner are capable of covalently binding to each other via an isopeptide bond. Also provided is a method for developing a peptide tag and binding partner pair which are capable of covalently binding to each other based on a protein which is capable of spontaneously forming an isopeptide bond. Additionally provided are peptide tag and binding partner pairs which are obtainable from isopeptide proteins. Further, specifically developed peptide tags and binding partners are described, together with nucleic acid molecules and vectors which encode those peptides or proteins.
US09547002B2 Method for detecting a target particle
Provided is a method for detecting a target particle that is a method for detecting a non-luminescent target particle dispersed and randomly moving in a sample solution using an optical system of a confocal microscope or multi-photon microscope, having: (a) preparing a sample solution containing target particles, and labeling particles of which the average outer diameter is less than 15% of the diameter of a photodetection region of the optical system, binding two or more molecules of the labeling particles per molecule of the target particles in the sample solution, and forming a non-luminescent complex of which the outer diameter is 15% or more of the diameter of the photodetection region; and, (b) calculating the number of molecules of the complex in the sample solution prepared in the (a) using an inverse scanning molecule counting method.
US09547001B2 Antibody specific for trans-resveratrol and use thereof
The present invention provides a method of detecting or measuring trans-Resveratrol (tRV) in a sample, comprising: contacting a sample to be tested with an antibody against tRV, or an antigen binding fragment of such an antibody; and detecting or measuring any tRV bound by the antibody or antibody fragment. The invention also provides an antibody against trans-Resveratrol.
US09546999B2 Method for detecting and quantifying a molecule including at least one protonated group on a solid substrate
The present invention relates to a method for detecting and optionally quantifying at least one molecule comprising at least one protonated group such as an amine function immobilized at the surface of the solid substrate, said method being a reversible, direct and colorimetric method that uses a coloring agent. The present invention also relates to various uses of said method and the solutions used during said method.
US09546997B2 Strip grabber
The present disclosure relates to a test strip handling device (100) that includes a housing (110) having an interior compartment (112) in which the test strips are received and stored. The device (100) facilitates sanitary handling and disposal of the test strips.
US09546996B2 Sequencing apparatus
The present invention provides an apparatus for analyzing the sequence of nucleotides in a nucleic acid sample, said apparatus comprising a substrate and a plurality of nanopores provided therein suitable for the passage of nucleic acid molecules therethrough; at least one sample holding chamber disposed upstream of the inlet of said nanopores, at least one detection window juxtaposed within or downstream of the outlet of each nanopore adapted to detect a property characteristic of one or more detectable elements associated with the nucleic acid as each nucleic acid molecule passes therethrough and a detector adapted to generate a data stream characteristic of the various detection events occurring in the detection window characterized in that the apparatus further comprises a means located within the sample holding chamber adapted to increase the local concentration of the nucleic acid sample adjacent the inlet of the nanopores relative to the bulk concentration thereof.
US09546989B2 Method for measuring the concentration of a gas component in a measurement gas
A method for measuring the concentration of a gas component in a measurement gas using a gas analyzer comprises varying the wavelength of the light of a wavelength-tunable light source within periodically consecutive scan intervals for wavelength-dependent scanning of a gas component absorption line of interest. The method also comprises modulating the wavelength of the light of the wavelength-tunable light source with a frequency, guiding the modulated light through the measurement gas onto a detector and demodulating a measurement signal generated by the detector in the event of a harmonic of the frequency. The method further comprises producing a measurement result by fitting a desired curve to the profile of the demodulated measurement signal. A function orthogonal to the desired curve is provided, and an orthogonal component of the measurement result is produced by fitting the orthogonal function to the profile of the demodulated measurement signal.
US09546987B2 System and program for controlling liquid chromatograph
A liquid chromatograph control system for controlling an operation of a liquid chromatograph which uses a mobile phase composed of a mixture of solvents and which has the function of performing a gradient analysis while temporally changing the mixture ratio of the solvents. The system initially requests a user to set a basic gradient profile (Step S12), and subsequently, to set the number of steps to change the mixture ratio of the mobile phase at the beginning and/or at the end of the gradient process as well as the amount of change in the mixture ratio per step (Step S13). After that, based on the possible combinations of the mixture ratios of the mobile phase at the beginning and at the end of the gradient process computed from the contents of information entered in the previous steps, a plurality of gradient profiles corresponding to those combinations are created (Step S14).
US09546982B2 Method and apparatus for determining the health and remaining service life of austenitic steel reformer tubes and the like
Testing methods and apparatus for testing the health of steel tubes used in reformers and other tubes and pipes used in other high temperature applications. The method includes the steps of transmitting two sinusoidal electromagnetic signals, each having a different frequency F1 and F2, into the reformer tube, receiving a response signal, and analyzing the received response signal's intermodulation frequencies to determine the state of the steel reformer tube.
US09546977B1 Junction field effect transistor based biosensor
In an embodiment of the invention, a biosensor comprises a semiconductor region having a doping polarity; a source region located at a first end of the semiconductor layer and a drain region located at a second end of the semiconductor layer; wherein the source region is in electrical communication with a source voltage; a current path from the source region, through the semiconductor layer, to the drain region; a sensing gate region in contact with a first surface of the semiconductor layer and having an opposite polarity as the semiconductor layer; a sensing surface in electrical communication with the sensing gate region; and a dual gate region in contact with a second surface of the semiconductor layer; wherein the dual gate region has a same polarity as the sensing gate region.
US09546974B2 Concentration determination in a diffusion barrier layer
The present invention relates to improved electrochemical biosensor strips and methods for determining the concentration of an analyte in a sample. By selectively measuring a measurable species residing in a diffusion barrier layer, to the substantial exclusion of the measurable species residing exterior to the diffusion barrier layer, measurement errors introduced by sample constituents, such as red blood cells, and manufacturing variances may be reduced.
US09546972B2 Thermal conductivity detector
A thermal conductivity detector includes at least four detector components that are arranged in receptacles of a thermal conduction block in a circle around a center axis of the thermal conduction block. The thermal conduction block comprises a central portion along the axis, the cross-axial dimensions of the central portion being less than the diameter of the circle. There are at least four equal peripheral portions that are connected solely to the central portion and are separated from each other, each of the peripheral portions carrying one of the detector components.
US09546970B2 Method of and apparatus for in-situ measurement of soot by electron spin resonance (ESR) spectrometry
An instrument and method using electron spin resonance spectrometry for measuring the concentration of airborne soot particles, and the like, that includes continuously passing a sample of exhaust gas through a resonating RF microwave cavity resonator during the application therethrough of a uniform slowly varying uniform magnetic field that is rapidly modulated and measuring the resulting phase modulation or amplitude modulation thereof to derive an electron spin resonance signal that directly senses the concentration of carbon free radicals produced as a result of inefficient combustion of hydrocarbons during operation of the vehicle or boiler. A further invention is the use of this signal for feedback control of the engine or boiler operating parameters to minimize or substantially eliminate particulate matter emissions.
US09546968B2 Meat assessment device
A method for assessing the quality of a piece of meat may be described. The method may include creating a plurality of cross-sectional images through a piece of meat. The method may additionally include performing image analysis on at least one of the images to determine the arrangement of fat and lean meat within the piece of meat. The arrangement may be indicative of the quality of the piece of meat.
US09546967B2 Apparatus and method for identifying defects within the volume of a transparent sheet and use of the apparatus
An apparatus for identifying defects within the volume of a transparent sheet, such as a glass sheet, is provided. The apparatus includes an illumination device that directs incident light onto at least a portion of a surface of the sheet so as to illuminate the sheet, and an image detector onto which the light backscattered from the sheet is directed to image the sheet. The apparatus generates at least two interference images under different capturing conditions in order to perform identification of defects by evaluating the at least two interference images.
US09546961B1 Method of rapid identification of natural and synthetic diamonds using third-order Raman spectra
The method of rapid identification of natural and synthetic diamonds using a third-order Raman spectra is to make a diamond third order under large-scale comparative studies with synthetic diamond (CVD & HPHT) to distinguish natural and synthetic diamonds with their differences in Raman peaks. This analysis of the differences in characteristic peak phenomenon can form the basis of a rapid identification and analytical technique.
US09546960B2 System and method for analysis of cannabis
A system including a light source, sampling tray, and at least three detectors mounted at angles with respect to each other receives light reflected from a sample of cannabis-based matter. Light from the three detectors is fed to a spectrometer which converts the reflected light into a fingerprint corresponding to the concentration of at least one substance in the sample. The fingerprint is processed by a statistical model to determine concentration level of the at least one substance in the sample and the concentration level is then displayed.
US09546958B2 Method of stamping surface-enhance Raman spectroscopy for label-free, multiplexed, molecular sensing and imaging
The present disclosure relates the use of a stamping surface enhanced Raman scattering (S-SERS) technique with nanoporous gold disk (NPGD) plasmonic substrates to produce a label-free, multiplexed molecular sensing and imaging technique. A NPGD SERS substrate is stamped onto a surface containing one or more target molecules, followed by SERS measurement of the target molecules located between the surface and SERS substrate. The target molecules may be deposited on the surface, which may be a carrier substrate such as polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS).
US09546957B2 Near-infrared dyes as surface enhanced raman scattering reporters
Nanoparticles comprising surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) reporter molecules of the formula A-Y and methods of their use are disclosed, wherein A is: wherein X1 is CR4 or N; and Y is selected from the group consisting of:
US09546954B2 Atmosphere profiling systems
An atmosphere profiling system is disclosed. The atmosphere profiling system is configured to characterize optical properties of the atmosphere.
US09546949B2 Parallel optical thin film measurement system for analyzing multianalytes
Optical computing devices including a light source that emits electromagnetic radiation into an optical train extending from the light source to a detector, a substance arranged in the optical train and configured to optically interact with the electromagnetic radiation and produce sample interacted radiation, a processor array arranged in the optical train and including a plurality of ICE arranged on a substrate and configured to optically interact with the electromagnetic radiation. The detector receives modified electromagnetic radiation generated through optical interaction of the electromagnetic radiation with the substance and the processor array. A weighting device is coupled to one or more of the ICE to optically apply a weighting factor to the modified electromagnetic radiation prior to being received by the detector, wherein the detector generates an output signal indicative of a characteristic of the substance based on beams of modified electromagnetic radiation.
US09546944B2 Nephelometric process turbidimeter
A nephelometric process turbidimeter for measuring a turbidity of a liquid sample includes a transparent sample vial which comprises a sample vial lateral inner surface. A vial head comprises a vial head lateral inner surface. The vial head and the sample vial together define a sample volume of a liquid sample having a shape of a cylinder. A sample inlet opening is arranged at the vial head and comprises an inlet opening axis. A sample outlet opening is arranged at the cylindrical vial head lateral inner surface to be axially closer to the sample vial than to the sample outlet opening. The inlet opening axis is inclined with respect to an inlet cross plane with an inclination angle of 10° to 80°, and is angled with respect to a radius line from a middle of the cylinder to the sample inlet opening with a tangency angle of more than 15°.
US09546943B1 System and method for investigating change in optical properties of a porous effective substrate surface as a function of a sequence of solvent partial pressures at atmospheric pressure
A system for and method of investigating changes in optical properties of a porous effective substrate surface related to, for instance, effective surface depth and refractive index, pore size, pore volume and pore size distribution at atmospheric pressure.
US09546942B2 System and method for optimizing selection of an air filter
A method for estimating energy use in an air filtration system using a preselected air filter includes the steps of: entering filtration system information into a computer having access to dust holding capacity—pressure drop curves for a plurality of air filters; determining an estimated current energy use of the air filtration system for a current air filter in the system; and presenting the estimated energy use on a display of the computer. Proposed filters can be evaluated and filter operation and changing cycle can be optimized.
US09546939B2 Inspecting device and inspecting method
In a force waveform of an assembled body having an elastic component assembled thereto, in order to specify a deformation start point or a deformation end point of the elastic component as easily as possible, an inspecting device includes: a force-waveform detection system that applies a load to a workpiece having an elastic component in the direction of action of the elastic component and acquires a force waveform; an inspection-parameter designation unit that acts as reception unit in order to receive an input of an arbitrary designated point during a process of deformation; and an inspection unit that calculates a local slope of the force waveform at the designated point, thereby specifying, on the basis of the local slope at the calculated designated point, a physical characteristic change point including the deformation start point or the deformation end point.
US09546938B2 Compositions, kits, and methods for isolating vesicles
A composition, a kit, and a method of isolating a vesicle from a sample using a compound comprising zwitterion moieties, which may be used to analyze vesicles, and proteins, glycoprotein, lipids, or nucleic acids thereof.
US09546937B2 Tissue cassette assembly
A tissue cassette includes a body having a first floor and a first perimeter wall encircling and extending from the first floor so that the first floor and first perimeter wall at least partially bound a body cavity, the first floor having a plurality of spaced apart openings extending therethrough. A mold has a second floor and a second perimeter wall encircling and extending from the second floor so that the second floor and second perimeter wall at least partially bound a mold cavity, the second floor having at least one micropore extending therethrough, the at least one micropore having a maximum diameter less than 0.040 inches. A hinge couples the body to the mold so that the body and mold can move between a closed position wherein the first floor overlies the second floor so as to form a tissue compartment therebetween and an open position.
US09546935B1 Dried specimen storage slides, systems and methods
Specimen collection slides, methods of fabricating and methods of utilizing such specimen collection slides whereby each specimen collection slide includes a top rigid layer with an opening, a bottom rigid layer with an opening substantially the same size as the top layer opening, a middle rigid section having an opening larger than the openings in both the top and bottom layers, and a filtration media residing within the opening in the middle section. The top, bottom and middle are secured together to provide the resultant slide with thickness and rigidity that lends the slide to be utilized in automated handling processes and instruments. The middle section of the slide encases the filtration media and sandwiches it between the top and bottom layers so that the filtration media is protected from damage. Each slide may have its own unique identifier.
US09546932B2 Microfluidic assay operating system and methods of use
A pneumatically driven portable assay cartridge having analyte capture regions associated with microfluidic channels within its interior, the portable cartridge having pneumatic ports clampable against pneumatic ports of an operating instrument for controlled application of positive pressure and vacuum to pneumatic operating channels within the cartridge, the cartridge having a well for receiving sample from a user and microfluidic channels that include pneumatically operated pistons and valves controllable by the pneumatic operating channels to cause all flows of the assay from the reservoirs through reaction regions within the cartridge to on-board waste reservoir during conduct of the assay.
US09546929B1 Wet natural gas sampling method and apparatus therefore
A system for on-stream sampling of pressurized process gas such as natural gas or the like, said pressurized process gas having liquid entrained therein, or otherwise referenced as “wet”. The preferred embodiment of the present invention contemplates a system for obtaining an accurate sample of said wet process gas, as well as providing an apparatus for obtaining same.
US09546927B2 Optical pulse tester
An optical pulse tester includes: an OTDR measurer configured to execute an OTDR function of measuring a time distribution of a power of return light of an optical pulse input to an optical fiber; a display configured to display an OTDR measurement screen indicating information on execution of the OTDR function; and a controller configured to control the OTDR measurer and the display. The controller displays, on the OTDR measurement screen, a menu for allowing an operating person to call an auxiliary function for measurement of the optical fiber, and displays, on the OTDR measurement screen, a sub-screen indicating information on execution of the auxiliary function called by the operating person.
US09546924B2 Transform audio codec and methods for encoding and decoding a time segment of an audio signal
Methods and devices for efficient encoding/decoding of a time segment of an audio signal. The methods comprise deriving an indicator, z, of the position in a frequency scale of a residual vector associated with the time segment of the audio signal, and deriving a measure, Φ, related to the amount of structure of the residual vector. The methods further comprise determining whether a predefined criterion involving the measure Φ, the indicator z and a predefined threshold Θ, is fulfilled, which corresponds to estimating whether a change of sign of at least some of the non-zero coefficients of the residual vector would be audible after reconstruction of the audio signal time segment. The respective amplitude of the coefficients of the residual vector is encoded, and the signs of the coefficients of the residual vector are encoded only when it is determined that the criterion is fulfilled, and thus that a change of sign would be audible.
US09546922B2 Absolute pressure sensor with improved cap bonding boundary
A pressure sensor includes a top cap with a recess formed in an end of the top cap and a cavity formed in the end of the top cap to communicate with the recess. The cavity extends further axially into the top cap than the recess thereby having depth greater than a depth of the recess. Outer edges of the recess extend laterally outward beyond outer edges of the cavity thereby defining a bonding boundary. A silicon substrate has a sensing circuit on a top side thereof. The top cap is bonded to the top side of the silicon substrate in a range from the outer edges of the top cap to the bonding boundary. The recess and the cavity of the top cap face the top side of the silicon substrate and form a reference vacuum cavity. When pressure is exerted on a backside of the substrate, a portion of the substrate is constructed and arranged to deflect.
US09546920B2 Temperature range optimized sensor system
A sensor arrangement comprises a first sensor element for converting a physical quantity into a first electrical signal and at least a second sensor element for converting said physical quantity into a second electrical signal. The first sensor element has a first sensitivity while said second sensor element has a second sensitivity different from said first sensitivity. The first sensor element is operatively coupled between terminals of said sensor arrangement and said second sensor element is operatively connected between said terminals of said sensor arrangement via a temperature controlled switching element so that in a first state of said temperature controlled switching element, said second electrical signal combines with said first electrical signal to form a sensor output signal, and in a second state of said temperature controlled switching element, the contribution of said second electrical signal to said sensor output signal is substantially reduced with respect to a respective contribution in said first state of said temperature controlled switching element.
US09546918B2 Sensor element, force detection device, robot, electronic component transport device, electronic component inspection device, and component processing device
A sensor element includes, when three axes orthogonal to one another are set to be an A-axis, a B-axis, and a C-axis, first piezoelectric plate that is configured to have an X cut quartz crystal plate and outputs a charge in response to an external force along the A-axis direction, second piezoelectric plate that is configured to have a Y cut quartz crystal plate, is stacked in the A-axis direction with the first piezoelectric plate, and outputs a charge in response to the external force in the B-axis direction, and third piezoelectric plate that is configured to have a Y cut quartz crystal plate, is stacked in the A-axis direction so as to interpose the second piezoelectric plate between the first piezoelectric plate and the third piezoelectric plate and be arranged to turn around the A-axis, and outputs a charge in response to the external force in the C-axis direction.
US09546917B2 Strain amplification sensor
A strain amplification sensor having a first base portion being coupled to a first member to be strain measured, a second base portion being coupled to a second member to be strain measured, and an amplifying lever system pivotally coupled between the first base portion and the second base portion. The amplifying lever system includes attachment locations that induce opposing relative motion resulting in detectable deflection of the amplifying lever system in response to application of strain between the first base portion and the second base portion.
US09546912B2 Time temperature indicator by chromatography and photonic lattice changes
A time-temperature indicator (TTI) uses polymer hardening properties to “set” or retain indications of temperature history. The TTI includes a mesh layer affixed to a thermo-conductive adhesive layer and a photonic crystal patterned film affixed to the mesh layer. The photonic crystal shows a property of bandgap shift vs temperature and responds to a predetermined range of temperatures to provide a visible indication of the range of temperatures. A hardener pouch is affixed to one end of the mesh layer and releases hardener in response to an initiating event, so that the photonic crystal material responds to the hardener by presenting a fixed state.
US09546911B2 Time-temperature indicator comprising a side chain crystalline polymer
A temperature-activatable time-temperature indicator that can be used to monitor the historical exposure of a host product to ambient temperatures includes an optically readable, thermally sensitive indicator element. The indicator element can be inactive below a base temperature and is intrinsically thermally responsive at or above an activation temperature which is equal to or greater than the base temperature. The indicator can record cumulative ambient temperature exposure above the activation temperature irreversibly with respect to time. The indicator element can include a synthetic polymeric material, and optionally, a dye. A side-chain crystallizable polymer such as poly(hexadecylmethacrylate), that is solid below the base temperature and is a viscous liquid above the activation temperature can be employed. Intense indicator element colors can be obtained using an appropriate dye or dyes. Various structural configurations of indicator are described and illustrated.
US09546908B1 Glassware mold pyrometry
An apparatus to sense temperature in a glassware forming machine. A mold body includes an exterior surface, a mold cavity having an interior mold surface, and a blind hole having a closed end including a closed end surface adjacent to and spaced outwardly from the interior mold surface, wherein the blind hole extends outwardly from the closed end surface toward the exterior surface. The mold body is removably carried on a mold hanger, and a light collector is carried by the mold hanger to collect infrared light emitted within the blind hole.
US09546906B2 Spectrum sensor and angle restriction filter
An angle restriction filter that allows light incident thereon in a predetermined range of incident angles to pass, includes: an optical path wall section formed from a plurality of light shield members laminated in layers including a common material, thereby forming an optical path in a lamination direction of the light shield members; and a light transmission section formed in a region surrounded by the optical path wall section.
US09546901B2 Minimizing grazing incidence reflections for reliable EUV power measurements having a light source comprising plural tubes with centerlines disposed between a radiation region and corresponding photodetector modules
A light source includes a light generating chamber and a collector disposed in the light generating chamber. A target material generator configured to propel a quantity of target material toward an irradiation region is disposed in front of a reflective surface of the collector. A plurality of photodetector modules is disposed external to the light generating chamber, with each of the photodetector modules being directed toward the irradiation region. A plurality of tubes is disposed between a corresponding photodetector module and the irradiation region. Each tube has a centerline directed toward the irradiation region, and each tube has a roughened inner surface. The surface roughness of the roughened inner surface is sufficient to cause grazing incidences of light to be eliminated rather than to be reflected off the roughened inner surface. A method of generating light and a method of measuring light energy also are described.
US09546898B2 Fitness testing scale
Fitness testing scale systems and methods are implemented using a variety of approaches. According to one implementation, a fitness testing scale measures the physiological data of a user engaging sensor circuitry on a platform region of the scale. In a fitness testing mode, physiological data of the user is detected at respective states of physical exertion. The physiological data is then processed by user-targeted circuitry to determine physiological parameters of the user pertaining to the respective physical exertion states, such as may pertain to an increase in exertion or a reduction in exertion. These physiological parameters may, for example, be used to provide an indication of the physical health and fitness of the user. Such parameters may then be associated with the user and saved to a data-access circuit, and also forwarded to a display which communicates the physiological parameters among other information to the user through the platform region.
US09546895B2 Time domain reflectometry based method for emulsion detection and profiling
A radar transmitter for emulsion measurement comprises a probe defining a transmission line for sensing impedance. A pulse circuit is connected to the probe for generating pulses on the transmission line and receiving a reflected signal from the transmission line. The reflected signal comprises a waveform of probe impedance over time. A controller is operatively connected to the pulse circuit. The controller profiles content of the emulsion responsive to the waveform by transforming the waveform into impedance relative to distance, converting the transformed waveform into effective dielectric relative to distance, determining mixture content of the emulsion at select distances responsive to the effective dielectric at the select distances and developing an output representing mixture content relative to level units.
US09546889B2 Lock rack for hydro, isolation or test blinds
A blind rack for storing a plurality of blinds has a support frame including a horizontal frame. A plurality of load bearing arms are connected to the horizontal frame, and the plurality of blinds to be stored on the blind rack are indexable with respect to the horizontal frame.
US09546887B1 Multiaxis sensing using metal organic frameworks
A sensor device including a sensor substrate; and a thin film comprising a porous metal organic framework (MOF) on the substrate that presents more than one transduction mechanism when exposed to an analyte. A method including exposing a porous metal organic framework (MOF) on a substrate to an analyte; and identifying more than one transduction mechanism in response to the exposure to the analyte.
US09546883B2 Sensor auto-calibration
Aspects of the disclosure relate to computing technologies. In particular, aspects of the disclosure relate to mobile computing device technologies, such as systems, methods, apparatuses, and computer-readable media for improving calibration data by increasing the diversity of orientations used for generating the calibration data. In one embodiment, the computing device receives a plurality of calibration measurements associated with one or more sensors of a device, determines a degree to which the plurality of calibration measurements were captured at different orientations of the device, and determines, based on the degree, whether to update one or more calibration parameters.
US09546881B2 Server, user terminal, and service providing method, and control method thereof
A control method of a server is provided. Location information is extracted from photographed data. The photographed data is linked to a course of travel having a pre-stored street image, by applying a predetermined standard based on the extracted location information. The photographed data is provided together with the linked course of travel having the pre-stored street image.
US09546879B2 User terminal, method for providing position and method for guiding route thereof
A user terminal generates position information regarding a position of the user terminal, generates target recognition information for recognizing a target, communicates with a counterpart terminal, and determines whether the target recognition information conforms with first reference information. If so, the user terminal transmits the target recognition information and the position information to the counterpart terminal, and if the information does not conform, the terminal determines whether the target recognition information conforms with second reference information. Accordingly, the user terminal easily provides route guidance to a destination.
US09546878B2 Mobile terminal and cloud system using the mobile terminal
The present disclosure relates to a mobile terminal capable of accessing a cloud server and a cloud system using the same. A mobile terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a user input unit configured to select an external terminal for receiving route information stored in a cloud server, a wireless communication unit configured to communicate with the cloud server using radio signals, and a controller configured to control the wireless communication unit to transmit a route information transmission request message to the cloud server so as to transmit the route information to the external terminal from the cloud server.
US09546874B2 Optimal route solution
Methods, systems, and computer storage media are provided for identifying an optimal route to a destination for a user. The optimal route is customized for the user based on one or more route factors. The route factors may include a physical limitation of the user or a restricted area of a healthcare environment. The route factors may also include obstacles within the route or user preferences. An optimal route is identified as such when no route factors conflict with the optimal route.
US09546873B2 Determining GPS mode of operation based upon accelerometer input
An electronic device is operable to determine a Global Positioning System (GPS) mode of operation based upon accelerometer input. The electronic device includes a communications interface, a GPS receiver, an accelerometer module, and processing circuitry. The processing circuitry receives an accelerometer output from the accelerometer module and compares the accelerometer output to a plurality of acceleration signatures. Based upon the comparison, an acceleration profile is selected. A GPS mode of operation is selected for the GPS receiver based upon the acceleration profile. The acceleration profile can be selected based upon one or more types of communications being serviced by the communications interface. In one embodiment, a selected GPS mode of operation selected corresponds to a distinct operating environment.
US09546870B2 Dynamic route mapping between mobile devices
Generally, this disclosure describes dynamic route mapping between mobile devices. Techniques may include initiating communication between a first mobile device at a first location and a second mobile device at a second location; receiving a first location indicator by the second mobile device, the first location indicator transmitted from the first mobile device in response to a request from the second mobile device, the first location indicator corresponding to the first location; determining a convergence point based on at least one of the first location and the second location; mapping a travel route from at least one of the first location and the second location to the convergence point; and displaying the travel route on at least one of the first mobile device and the second mobile device.
US09546867B2 Multi-function level with a joinable end
An apparatus and method for measuring and marking level and plumb is providently disclosed herein. The multi-function level includes: modular ends that allow attachment of mating levels for linear extension in one direction. The modular, or jointed, end includes a structure to hold a connector or to selectively receive a connector from another level such that that only applies a load to the jointed end and not the body of the level.
US09546862B2 Systems, methods and metrics for wafer high order shape characterization and wafer classification using wafer dimensional geometry tool
Systems and methods for improving results of wafer higher order shape (HOS) characterization and wafer classification are disclosed. The systems and methods in accordance with the present disclosure are based on localized shapes. A wafer map is partitioned into a plurality of measurement sites to improve the completeness of wafer shape representation. Various site based HOS metric values may be calculated for wafer characterization and/or classification purposes, and may also be utilized as control input for a downstream application. In addition, polar grid partitioning schemes are provided. Such polar grid partitioning schemes may be utilized to partition a wafer surface into measurement sites having uniform site areas while providing good wafer edge region coverage.
US09546859B2 Composite material
An electrically responsive composite material (1110) specially adapted for touch screen, comprising a carrier layer (1301) having a length and a width and a thickness (1303) that is relatively small compared to said length and said width. The composite material also comprises a plurality of electrically conductive or semi-conductive particles (201). The particles (201) are agglomerated to form a plurality of agglomerates (104, 1403) dispersed within the carrier layer such that each said agglomerate comprises a plurality of the particles (201). The agglomerates are arranged to provide electrical conduction across the thickness of the carrier layer in response to applied pressure such that the electrically responsive composite material has a resistance that reduces in response to applied pressure.
US09546858B2 Trajectory display device for displaying trajectories of motor end and machine end
A trajectory display device, by which an operator can visually and easily compare actual trajectories of a motor end and a machine end, and can easily determine a reason for deviation between the trajectories. The device has a motor-side position obtaining part which obtains positional information of a motor at predetermined sampling periods of time; a motor end actual coordinate calculating part which calculates an actual coordinate value of the motor end based on mechanical information and the positional information of the motor; a machine end data obtaining part which obtains point sequence data on an actual trajectory of the machine end; and a displaying part which displays and overlaps the actual coordinate of the motor end and the point sequence data of the machine end, as actual trajectories of the motor end and the machine end, so that central coordinates of the trajectories coincide with each other.
US09546857B2 Hybrid primer
A hybrid primer device comprising electric primer and chemical primer housed in a percussion cap. The electrical primer comprises single pin or plurality of electrode pin pair. Each electrode pair comprises of at least one anode and cathode pin which are insulated and arranged at predetermined distance from central axis. The length of each pair of anode and cathode pins varies to help create multiple trigger points across the length of the cartridge. The chemical primer provides ignition of propellant in absence of the electric power. Application of high voltage electric pulse across the electrodes generates electric arcs between the pairs at multiple points inside cartridge resulting in instantaneous combustion of the propellant creating a high pressure in the cartridge case which improves the projectile's performance. The electric arcs generated will continue even after the chemical primer is exhausted thus enabling primer to continuously burn the propellant ensuring complete combustion.
US09546856B1 Press load process for warhead
A method of filling a projectile case with energetic material includes isostatically pressing a column of the powder to create a pre-formed billet (PFB). The single PFB is placed in and then pressed into the projectile case to create the finished warhead. The single PFB effectively fills a projectile case having a large l/d ratio. The single PFB eliminates the problems and poor quality associated with pressing multiple increments in a projectile case.
US09546854B2 Ground-projectile guidance system
A guidance unit system is configured to be used for a ground-launched projectile. The system includes a housing configured to be attached to a ground-launched projectile. The housing is coupled to an attachment region that attaches to the projectile, wherein the housing is configure to rotate relative to the attachment region. A motor is contained within the housing and a bearing surrounding the motor. The bearing is rigidly attached to the housing such that the motor rotates with the housing and shields the motor from inertial loads experienced by the housing.
US09546853B2 Air vehicle with control system mechanical coupler
An air vehicle, such as a munition like a guided bomb or missile, has a control system that allows control surfaces to be mechanically uncoupled from one or more actuators to allow the control surfaces to freely move (rotate) relative to a fuselage of the vehicle, for example allowing the control surfaces to “weather vane” by assuming an orientation corresponding to the direction of airflow past the air vehicle (direction of airflow relative to the air vehicle). When active positioning of the control surfaces is desired, the control surfaces may be mechanically coupled to one or more actuators that are used to position the control surfaces. The selective coupling of the actuator(s) and the control surfaces may be accomplished by selectively coupling together a sleeve that is mechanically coupled to the control surfaces, and a nut that moves along a shaft of an actuator, for example using a resilient device.
US09546852B1 Large caliber frangible projectile
A large caliber, frangible, training projectile imitates, for training purposes, the corresponding tactical projectile. To enable fragmentation of the training projectile at impact, some embodiments of the frangible projectile are partially or entirely made of a material with a lower yield strength than the material used in the counterpart tactical projectile. Some embodiments of the frangible projectile may include portions that are sectioned, welded, or provided with stress risers. Some embodiments of the frangible projectile may include high density particles suspended in a weaker medium. The fragmentation methods may be applied to the overall mass of the projectile, or to a portion of the projectile.
US09546849B2 Lightweight polymer ammunition cartridge casings
One embodiment of the present invention provides a polymeric ammunition cartridge and methods of making and using the same. The cartridge includes a substantially cylindrical insert connected to a substantially cylindrical polymeric middle body. The substantially cylindrical insert includes a top surface opposite a bottom surface and a substantially cylindrical coupling element that extends from the bottom surface, a primer recess in the top surface that extends toward the bottom surface, a primer flash hole positioned in the primer recess to extend through the bottom surface, and a flange that extends circumferentially about an outer edge of the top surface. The substantially cylindrical polymeric middle body includes a substantially cylindrical polymeric bullet-end and a substantially cylindrical polymeric coupling end connected by a powder chamber, wherein the substantially cylindrical polymeric coupling end extends over the substantially cylindrical coupling element and covers a circumferential surface of the primer flash hole.
US09546847B2 System and method for modular turret extension
A modular turret extension system for providing improved situational awareness and methods for manufacturing and using same is provide herein. The turret extension system includes a first and second coupling end, a plurality of extension members extending between the first and second coupling end, a viewing chamber defined by the first and second coupling ends and the plurality of extension members and a plurality of viewing ports each defined by a portion of one or more of the extension members.
US09546846B2 Video camera gun barrel mounting system
A shock absorbing mount on a gun using a camera system for training a shooter. The mount includes a mounting bracket with an upper portion having an opening defined therein for firmly mechanically attaching to at least one barrel of a gun and a lower portion for firm mechanically attaching to a tube assembly. The tube assembly is adapted to slidably mount carriage assembly of a camera therein. The tube assembly includes a first end with a first captive cap holding a lens window directed toward a gun front sight when mounted on the gun, the first end including a load transfer ring positioned between the first captive cap and a carriage assembly body of the camera. A programming system is also disclosed to translate a relative position of the generated reticule overlay relative to a generated graticule overlay using the offset previously stored.
US09546841B2 Apparatus for cleaning firearms
An apparatus for cleaning firearms comprises a rod, a handle, a first cylindrical body portion, a second cylindrical body portion, a stick, and a fiber wad. The handle is attached to an end of the rod. The first cylindrical body portion defines a channel and a longitudinal break in a sidewall of the first cylindrical body portion. The channel and the longitudinal break extend into the first cylindrical body portion from a first end of the first cylindrical body portion, and the longitudinal break at least partially merges with the channel. At the same time, the second cylindrical body portion is attached to a second end of the cylindrical body portion and has a smaller diameter than the first cylindrical body portion. The stick is at least partially inserted into the channel. Lastly, the fiber wad is wrapped around at least a portion of the stick.
US09546835B2 Automatic electronic communication system for tracking firearms
This invention provides a system, method and algorithm for automatic electronic communication between a firearm formed with a location tracking system and a signal emitting arrangement. A data processing system is provided at a restricted firearm-free-zone established around key public sites (schools, mass gathering places etc.). The safety and security system for tracking firearms of the invention is arranged, so that upon approaching the restricted firearm-free-zone an unauthorized firearm activates a security protocol, so as to trigger an automatic alarm, dispatch of police and EMS etc.
US09546834B2 Rifle having a fixed magazine
A fixed magazine for a rifle has a projecting boss within the magazine well that engages a cavity in the magazine. Once the magazine is inserted and the boss engages the cavity, the magazine is fixed and may not be removed from the rifle. The magazine is loaded by separating the upper receiver from the lower receiver and exposing the magazine opening, allowing it to receive rounds of ammunition.
US09546830B2 Composite hanger grid and components, splash bar, assembly thereof and method of assembly
A composite hanger grid for supporting splash bars in a cooling tower uses separate vertical suspension members and horizontal beams by which all of the operational loads imposed on the splash bars are transferred to the horizontal beams, which then transfer the load to the vertical suspension members. Since all of the horizontal beams are independent of each other and separate components from the vertical suspension members, the horizontal beams will be loaded equally throughout the entire hanger grid. Also disclosed are components of the composite hanger grid, splash bars adapted for use with specific embodiments of the composite hanger grid, assemblies of the composite hanger grid with its supported splash bars, a method of assembling a composite hanger grid and a method of assembling an evaporative cooler fill assembly, including hanger grids and splash bars, in a cooling tower.
US09546822B2 Flow directors
The present invention relates to liquid to air evaporative heat exchange apparatus, mainly for cooling towers, air conditioning units, and humidifies alike. The present invention incorporate an evaporative module embedded with a liquid delivery system with flow directors to control the flow of liquid through all of its layers. Such a design allows for an even and smooth liquid distribution, while at the same time maximized the duration and surface area for heat exchange to take place. The evaporative module of the present invention can be sealed off at various sections to redirect airflow. Such a design serves dual functions as a drift eliminator or regulator.
US09546817B2 Method for drying articles
A method for drying an article with a radio frequency (RF) applicator having anode elements and cathode elements includes capacitively coupling the anode elements, capacitively coupling the cathode elements, capacitively coupling an anode element to a cathode element, and energizing the RF applicator to generate an RF field between anode and cathode elements wherein liquid residing within the field will be dielectrically heated.
US09546814B2 Cryogenic air separation method and system
The present invention relates to a cryogenic air separation process that provides high pressure oxygen for an oxy-fired combustion of a fuel (e.g., a carbonaceous fuel). The air separation process can be directly integrated into a closed cycle power production process utilizing a working fluid, such as CO2. Beneficially, the air separation process can eliminate the need for inter-cooling between air compression stages and rather provide for recycling the adiabatic heat of compression into a process step in a further methods wherein an additional heat supply is beneficial.
US09546808B2 Refrigeration appliance
In a refrigeration appliance, particularly a household refrigeration appliance, having a storage space for cooled material, at least one passage for the flow of air into and out of the storage space is formed in a wall delimiting the storage space. A fan drives an air flow. A moveable closure element between the fan and the storage space is arranged at the passage, which closure element in the open position allows a flow of air driven by said fan to circulate in the storage space and in the closed position guides the flow of air driven by the fan through a duct running along one outer side of a wall of the storage space.
US09546806B2 Air conditioner
When a fully-closable expansion valve is used, there is a possibility that the expansion valve is fully closed thereby to block a refrigerant circuit. In an air conditioner 1 of the present invention, an indoor heat exchanger 14 includes an auxiliary heat exchanger 20 and a main heat exchanger 21 disposed leeward from the auxiliary heat exchanger 20. In an operation in a predetermined dehumidification operation mode, a liquid refrigerant supplied to the auxiliary heat exchanger 20 all evaporates midway in the auxiliary heat exchanger 20, i.e., before reaching the outlet. Therefore, only an upstream partial area in the auxiliary heat exchanger 20 is an evaporation region, while an area downstream of the evaporation region in the auxiliary heat exchanger 20 is a superheat region. Further, an evaporation temperature sensor 30 which detects an evaporation temperature is disposed downstream of an expansion valve 13 in an outdoor unit 3.
US09546805B2 Coolant condenser assembly
In a coolant condenser assembly for a motor vehicle air conditioning system, comprising cooling pipes for conducting a coolant through, two collecting pipes for fluidically connecting the cooling pipes, a collecting container with an upper cover wall and a lower bottom wall and a side wall as well as with an inlet opening for conducting the coolant into the collecting container and an outlet opening for conducting the coolant out of the collecting container, with the result that through the inlet and outlet openings the collecting container is fluidically connected to the collecting pipe and/or the cooling pipes, the collecting container comprises an outlet chamber and a riser pipe, and the outlet opening opens into the outlet chamber, and the outlet chamber is connected to the riser pipe and a storage chamber for the coolant is formed within the collecting container and outside the outlet chamber and outside the riser pipe, the collecting container preferably has an inlet chamber and a downpipe, and the inlet opening opens into the inlet chamber and the inlet chamber is connected to the downpipe and the storage chamber is formed outside the inlet chamber and outside the downpipe, the cooling pipes have a superheating region for cooling the vaporous coolant, a condensation region for condensing the coolant and a supercooling region for cooling the liquid coolant, wherein the supercooling region is formed above the superheating region and above the condensation region, the intention is that little coolant will be present in flow spaces in the collecting container. This object is achieved in that the height of the storage chamber is greater than the distance between the lower floor wall and the inlet and/or outlet openings.
US09546804B2 Microchannel coil spray system
The present application provides a microchannel coil assembly. The microchannel coil assembly may include a frame, a number of microchannel coils positioned within the frame, and a microchannel coil spray system positioned about the frame and the number of microchannel coils.
US09546803B2 Reciprocating magnetic heat pump apparatus with multiple permanent magnets in different configurations
A magnetic heat pump cycle has a first to a fourth steps, which are repeatedly carried out. In the first step, a movement of heat medium is stopped by a pressure valve and a pressure accumulating tank and a magnetic field is applied by a magnetic-field control unit to a magnetic working material. In the second step, the pressure valve is opened so that the heat medium flows in a working chamber from a second axial end to a first axial end, and the magnetic field is increased depending on a moving speed of the heat medium. In the third step, the movement of the heat medium is stopped and the magnetic field is decreased. In the fourth step, the heat medium is moved in a reversed direction and the magnetic field is decreased depending on the moving speed of the heat medium.
US09546801B2 Solar-thermal conversion member, solar-thermal conversion device, and solar thermal power generation device comprising a β-FeSi2 phase material
A solar-thermal conversion member includes a β-FeSi2 phase material. The solar-thermal conversion member exhibits a high absorptance for visible light at wavelengths of several hundred nm and a low absorptance for infrared light at wavelengths of several thousand nm and, as a consequence, efficiently absorbs visible light at wavelengths of several hundred nm and converts the same into heat and exhibits little thermal radiation due to thermal emission at temperatures of several hundred ° C. The solar-thermal conversion member may therefore efficiently absorb sunlight, provide heat, and prevent thermal radiation due to thermal emission.
US09546800B2 Pressure vessel based tower structure
A tower structure with storing capacity for at least one medium is described. The tower structure comprising at least two substantially vertically oriented support structures for forming the tower structure, wherein at least one of the support structures comprises at least one constructive pressure vessel for forming the support structure. A method for building the tower structure also is disclosed. The pressure vessel based tower structure may have applications e.g. in wind mills and solar thermal towers.
US09546798B2 Combined gas-water tube hybrid heat exchanger
A heat exchanger having a cylindrical body comprising an upper section, a lower section, a side water jacket surrounding the upper and lower sections, a top water jacket disposed atop the upper section and a gas exhaust disposed below the lower section. A water cavity is disposed substantially in the lower section while a gas cavity having a burner is disposed substantially centrally within the gas cavity. A plurality of water tubes disposed in a ring formation, connect the water cavity through the gas cavity to the top water jacket and a plurality of gas tubes also disposed in ring formations, connect the gas cavity through the water cavity to the gas exhaust. At least one of the gas tubes ring has a diameter that is greater than that of the water tubes ring.
US09546797B2 Air conditioner management device, air conditioner management system, non-transitory computer-readable recording medium and air conditioner management method
An air conditioner management device comprises an information inputter entering schedule information presenting a schedule for operating a first air conditioner and a device controller controlling the operation of the first air conditioner based on the entered schedule information. The air conditioner management device further comprises an information communicator receiving information identifying the first air conditioner and operation state information presenting the operation state of the first air conditioner, and information identifying a second air conditioner and operation state information presenting the operation state of the second air conditioner. The air conditioner management device further comprises an information display displaying the operation state information of the first air conditioner and the operation state information of the second air conditioner. Thus, it is possible to display a change in the operation state of an air conditioner caused by the operation of another air conditioner.
US09546795B2 Arrangement for managing data center operations to increase cooling efficiency
A method includes a step of storing in a memory efficiency characteristic information for each of a plurality of air conditioning units in a location containing a plurality of server computers, the efficiency characteristic information including information representative of an efficiency performance curve for a range of variable cooling output. The method also includes identifying a current thermal load on each of the plurality air conditioning units. The method further includes employing the stored efficiency characteristic information and the current thermal load to identify a first air conditioning unit having a least additional power consumption required to increase cooling output. One or more processing units are employed to allocate one or more processing tasks to one of the plurality of server computers based on the identified first air conditioning unit.
US09546787B2 Device for stabilizing dilute combustion in a cold-wall combustion chamber
A device for stabilizing dilute combustion for use in a cold-walls type combustion chamber comprises a burner. The burner comprises at least one oxidant inlet and at least one fuel inlet. The oxidant and fuel inlets opening separately into the chamber at a distance suitable for establishing combustion which is highly diluted by internal re-circulations of combustion products toward a burner zone. The device comprises a heating element configured to heat, during steady operating conditions, the combustion products to sustain self-ignition conditions. The heating element is positioned in a dilution zone and surrounds a set of oxidant and fuel jets.
US09546786B2 Self-powered damper system
A system for operating a damper comprises a flue pipe assembly, and a damper movable between an open position and a closed position within the flue pipe assembly. At least one thermoelectric generator is coupled to a surface of the flue pipe assembly. Operation of the damper is achieved by the thermoelectric generator harvesting thermal energy from the flue pipe assembly and converting it into usable electrical energy for actuation of the damper.
US09546784B2 Burner
The invention relates to a burner, particularly for the gasification of solid carbonaceous materials by partial combustion. The burner comprises a central channel (2) and at least one coaxial channel (6). The channels (2, 6) are defined by concentric walls (3, 5) having free downstream outer ends profiled to define an annular slit (10) forming a discharge end of the coaxial channel (6) and converging towards an adjacent discharge end of the central channel (2). The burner (1) is encased by a cooling jacket (14) and comprises a front face (21) with double walls spaced by one or more baffles (28) defining a coolant flow path operatively connected to the cooling jacket (14). The cooling jacket (14) has an upstream section (14A) and a transitional section (25) narrowing down to the front face (21) having a smaller outer diameter than the upstream cooling jacket section.
US09546781B2 Field-serviceable flat panel lighting device
The light fixture includes a light emitting panel assembly including a frame and a substantially flat light emitting diode (LED) panel disposed within the frame. The substantially flat light emitting diode (LED) panel has an array of light emitting diodes (LEDs). The light fixture further includes a power circuitry module, with a power circuit. The power circuitry module is disposed within the frame adjacent an edge of the frame, and is releasably attachable to the light emitting panel assembly. A decouplable source electrical connector electrically couples the power circuit to an AC power supply external to the light fixture, and a decouplable driver electrical connector electrically couples the power circuit to the array of light emitting diodes (LEDs). The source electrical connector and driver electrical connector may be configured to be decoupled as the power circuitry module is detached and separated from the light emitting panel assembly.
US09546775B1 Decorative lighting apparatus having two laser light sources
A laser light decorative lighting apparatus. The laser light decorative lighting apparatus including a laser light source generating a light and a motion assembly. The motion assembly including an articulating optical element disposed in a path of the light being generated by the laser light source and a motor coupled to the articulating element such that a movement generated by the motor drives the articulating optical element. The motion assembly being configured such that the movement driving the articulating optical element by the motor causes the light to move across a surface onto which the light is being projected in a pattern.
US09546773B2 Surface light source apparatus
A surface light source apparatus has a light emitting element, a light flux controlling member and a light diffusing member. The light flux controlling member has: a light control/emission surface that controls a traveling direction of light; a concavity that allows a main beam to be incident inside; and a back surface that extends in a radial direction from an opening rim part of the concavity and that allows sub-beams to be incident inside. One of a grid convex part which arranges a plurality of strips of convex parts in a grid pattern and a grid concave part which arranges a plurality of strips of concave parts in a grid pattern is formed in the back surface of the light flux controlling member. Surface roughening treatment is applied to one of the strips of the convex parts and the strips of the concave parts.
US09546772B2 Rod lens for lighting apparatus, lighting apparatus including the same and semiconductor manufacturing method using the apparatus
A rod lens for a lighting apparatus and a lighting apparatus including the rod lens are disclosed. The rod lens having a rectangular rod structure extends lengthwise and includes a first end and a second end opposing each other. The first end is a light incident surface and formed of one continuous surface. The second end is a light exit surface and formed of a plurality of separated surfaces.
US09546769B2 Vehicular lamp
A lamp that is mounted on a vehicle has a light-emitting element having a light-emitting portion, a first terminal, and a second terminal, a circuit board having a first surface on which the light-emitting element mounted is mounted, and a reflector that reflects light emitted from the light-emitting portion to a front of the light-emitting element. The first terminal supplies power to the light-emitting portion. The second terminal supports the light-emitting portion. The first terminal and the second terminal are arranged in a longitudinal direction. The second terminal is placed rearward of the first terminal.
US09546766B2 Light module for a motor vehicle headlamp
The present invention is directed toward light module for a motor vehicle headlamp that has numerous light sources, a primary lens, and a secondary lens. The primary lens is configured to collect light emitted from the light sources, and to convert this light to an intermediate light distribution having the form of a closed, illuminating surface area. The secondary lens has an object-side focal length, and the primary lens and the secondary lens are disposed such that the intermediate light distribution lies, at a spacing of this focal length, in the beam path in front of the secondary lens. The light emission surfaces of the light sources are separated from one another by spacings lying between them, and the primary lens is configured to distribute the light emitted from the light sources such that the spacings in the intermediate light distribution can no longer be perceived.
US09546764B2 Display device with flexible circuit board having graphite substrate
A display device is provided. The display device includes a light engine having light emitting components mounted to a flexible circuit board having a flexible graphite substrate. The flexible circuit board includes a dielectric layer formed on the surface of the flexible graphite substrate and an electrically conductive layer formed on the surface of the dielectric. The high in-plane thermal conductivity graphite substrate provides enhanced heat transfer capability to effectively move of heat away from the light emitting components for improved cooling of the heat generated by the light emitting component and surrounding devices.
US09546761B2 LED lighting device which has stable structure and is easily assembled and disassembled
Disclosed is an LED lighting device which is easily assembled and disassembled and has a stable assemblability without structural shaking. The LED lighting device is able to improve a heat radiating characteristic and optical efficiency.The LED lighting device comprises a light guide plate comprising a top surface; an upper case comprising a base disposed on the top surface of the light guide plate, and an edge extending from the base, wherein the base is thicker than the edge; a lower case comprising a body coupled to the edge of the upper case; a reflective sheet disposed between the top surface of the light guide plate and the base of the upper case; and a light source unit disposed between the light guide plate and the body of the lower case.
US09546758B2 Blanket installation method and blanket unit
A blanket installation method includes: a transporting step of transporting a blanket unit (1), in which a blanket (2) and a transport jig (3) are integrally coupled, between an inner tank (60) and an outer tank (50) of a double shell structure tank in a suspended condition; and a mounting step of mounting the blanket unit (1) on a shell plate of the inner tank (60). The transport jig (3) is formed by attaching a blanket fixing pin (34) to a jig main body (3A) through pin coupling. The blanket (2) is held at the blanket fixing pin (34).
US09546756B1 Display supporting apparatus
A display supporting apparatus includes a supporting unit having an adjustable body which includes two pairs of first adjusting grooves, and a support body which includes two pairs of second adjusting grooves. A first adjustment unit includes two first adjustable members extending respectively and movably through top and bottom ends of the support body and respectively abutting against top and bottom ends of the adjustable body. A second adjusting unit includes two sliding rods each movably extending through one pair of the first adjusting grooves and a corresponding pair of the second adjusting grooves, and two second adjustable members each extending through and rotatable relative to the adjustable body.
US09546755B2 Accessory mounting system
An accessory mounting system comprises a vertically aligned bracket configured to mate with a top corner block and a bottom corner block disposed below the top corner block of a pre-configured shipping container. A shaft may mount to the vertically aligned bracket and may have a first section slidable into a second section. In some examples, an accessory may be coupled to the shaft. The accessory may be elevated above a top plane of the pre-configured shipping container when the first section is slid at least partially out of the second section and the accessory mounting system is in an extended position. The accessory may be disposed next to the pre-configured shipping container when the first section is slid at least partially into the second section and the accessory mounting system is in a retracted position.
US09546753B2 Drive apparatus for installing flexible pipe through in-situ pipe
Pusher apparatus and a method of using the apparatus inserts a flexible liner into an in-situ pipe. At least a pair of contra-rotating resilient drive assemblies, having a nip therebetween, drive the liner into the pipe. A guide tube can extend between the drive assemblies and the pipe. A pull head can be affixed to a leading end of the liner and adapted for sealing within a bore of the pipe and pressured fluid can be applied to pull a leading end of the liner into the pipe while the pusher pushes. The contra-rotating resilient drive assemblies can be one or more pair of opposing wheels or opposing tracks. Track assemblies can be mounted to a frame which is movable on rails and restrained with a load cell for measuring reactive forces while pushing. The rails can be angled for aligning the nip with the pipe.
US09546751B2 Gas venting
An end fitting (300), flexible pipe (100), riser (203), and method of producing the same are disclosed. A method of venting gas from annuli (312, 319) of a flexible pipe is also disclosed. The end fitting includes a first vent flow fluid communication path (311) and a further vent flow fluid communication path (318). The end fitting is capable of enabling gas to be vented from a flexible pipe body with two annulus regions (312, 319).
US09546750B2 Hose clamp and method of manufacturing the same
The pinching operation is facilitated. A hose clamp (H1) is formed by bending a strip-like plate material (1) into a ring-like configuration, and includes a first end portion (5) having a first pinching operation surface (9), and a second end portion (6) having a second pinching operation surface (15). A through-hole (7) is open near the center in the longitudinal direction of the first pinching operation surface (9). At the time of bending into ring-like configuration, expansion regions (19) arranged at both side portions in the width direction of the second pinching operation surface (15) are folded at folding edges (20) with respect to a proximal region (18), whereby the second pinching operation surface (15) is narrowed in the width direction and can enter the through-hole (7). After bending into ring-like configuration, the expansion regions (19) are unfolded at the folding edges (20) and regain a widened state.
US09546747B2 Apparatus and methods for fluid processing and flow control
Fluid processing apparatus has a prefabricated branched network of flexible tubing, for conducting process fluid between process elements of the apparatus, and control valves. A tubing support has opposable front and rear plates which define a pattern of support channels between them in which the flexible tubing network lies, so that the support channels limit or prevent expansion of the flexible tubes. Standard non-reinforced tubing can then be used for high-pressure work. The support body plates can be separated to open the channels for insertion or removal of the flexible tubing. The front plate may be transparent. The control valves operate by simply pressing on the tubing in the support channels to block flow, without invasion of the flow path. The tubing sets can be easily replaced, cleaned or sterilized. The invention is useful in a range of controlled-flow processes e.g. chromatography and filtration.
US09546744B2 Conduit clamp for strut channel
A conduit clamp includes a first coupling component configured for attachment to a first attachment structure of a strut channel and a second coupling component different from the first coupling component and configured for attachment to a second attachment structure of a strut channel.
US09546742B2 Illuminated valve position indication
The disclosure relates to an embodiment of a valve position indicator having an indicator cover having at least one window and a rotor configured to be at least partially within the indicator cover. The rotor has an indicator surface with one or more position indicators wherein at least one of the position indicators is configured to align with the window on the indicator cover, thus indicating the position of a valve. A light may be positioned proximate the rotor and configured to illuminate the position indicator. The valve position indicator may also include an array of LED lights bordering the rim of the indicator cover. The valve position indicator may alternatively include the array of LED lights without the indicator cover.
US09546739B2 Modular solenoid valve kits and associated methods
Exemplary embodiments are directed to modular solenoid valve kits and associated methods, generally involving a valve body that includes a plurality of actuator section components and a plurality of head section components. The plurality of actuator section components includes a drive solenoid, a solenoid return spring, a stroke calibration collar and an actuator-to-head calibration collar. The plurality of head section components includes a needle, a stem return spring, a seal and a seat. The plurality of actuator section components and head section components are adapted to be interchanged to create a pull-through normally open valve, a pull-through normally closed valve, a push-in normally open valve and a push-in normally closed valve. That is, the kits and methods allow for modification of one valve type (e.g., a pull-through normally open valve, a pull-through normally closed valve, a push-in normally open valve and a push-in normally closed valve) into a different type.
US09546737B1 Solenoid valve
A solenoid valve includes a housing including a channel, a single-acting through hole, a double-acting through hole, a spring biased spool in the channel, a lateral outlet communicating with the double-acting through hole, and a hole element passing through an edge of the channel to communicate with both the double-acting through hole and the channel; a switch on the housing and including an axial tunnel, a shaft in the tunnel, a lateral single-acting hole communicating with the tunnel, a double-acting hole communicating with the tunnel, and a linking hole perpendicular to the tunnel but not communicating therewith; a pilot valve on the switch; a base at a bottom of the housing, and a spring biased check valve at a lower opening of the housing and the base, the check valve communicating with the single-acting through hole.
US09546735B2 Double-seat valve with a seat-cleaning function
A double-seat valve has a seat-cleaning function and ensures that the seat-cleaning flow is conducted into and out of the leakage hollow space with as little turbulence as possible. The valve reliably prevents a pressure-increasing direct action upon the seat regions, even in the event that the cross-sectional area of the drain bore is smaller than that of the largest pipeline that can be connected to the valve. This is achieved in that a region of extension of the deflection surface that faces away from the radially outer end of the deflection surface delimits the remaining region of the opening in its entirety and opens out from the second closing element at an end-face and radially inner end of the second closing element, facing the first closing element.
US09546733B2 Piston
This invention provides a piston in which the moving piston unit can be prevented from rotating with respect the base piston unit, while suppressing the increase of the sliding resistance the piston has with respect to the cylinder. The circumferential wall of the moving piston unit has a pair of skirt parts opposing each other across a piston boss and a pair of side-wall parts coupling the skirt parts and each having an outer circumferential surface concaved toward the central axis X1 of the piston. The side-wall parts have a penetration part each, which penetrates the side-wall part and extends in the directions the moving piston unit reciprocates with respect to the base piston unit. The base piston unit has rotation preventing projections that project perpendicular to the central axis of the piston and are inserted into the penetration parts.
US09546728B2 Balanced binary pump for CVT transmission
A flexible binary pump system for a motor vehicle transmission includes a shaft, a first vane pump mounted on the shaft and having a first rotor with a first diameter and a first width and a second vane pump mounted on the shaft and having a second rotor with a second diameter and a second width. The first vane pump provides hydraulic fluid to the transmission at a first pressure, and the second vane pump provides hydraulic fluid to the transmission at a second pressure. The first diameter, first width, second diameter, and second width are selected to optimize power consumption of the binary pump system and hydraulic fluid budget for the transmission.
US09546726B2 Rear end gear box cover for racing cars
A rear end gear box cover for a racing car is formed with a fixed base plate and a removable top plate. The base plate is fixed to the rear end housing by multiple fasteners while the top plate is removable from the base plate. The top plate includes a pair of opposing cam members carrying connector pins for engagement with receiver mounts formed on the base plate. A cam driver on the top plate has a central connector member that when rotated drives a pair of opposing cam pins carried in a slotted opening on the cam members outwardly to force the connector pins into openings in the receiver mounts and secure the top plate to the base plate. A detent mechanism in each of the slotted openings retains the cam members in a locked position. A quarter turn of the connector member retracts the connector pins.
US09546724B2 Roller pin for cam actuated roller assembly
The present disclosure provides a roller pin for a fuel pump. The roller pin includes a cylindrical body made of a first material extending between a first end and a second end. The roller pin includes an intermediate portion disposed between the first end and the second end of the cylindrical body. The intermediate portion is formed by depositing a second material on the cylindrical body. The roller pin further includes a longitudinal groove extending along the intermediate portion.
US09546723B2 Bevel gear housing, bevel gear and method of assembling the same
A housing for a bevel gear includes a pinion bearing seat configured to support a pinion bearing for a driveshaft having a drive pinion. The housing also includes an attachment structure configured to attach a support bearing seat to the housing such that the position of the support bearing seat with respect to the pinion bearing seat is variable in the radial direction.
US09546720B2 Torque split continually variable transmission
A transmission includes a first drive secured to an input, producing a fixed drive ratio; a second drive secured to an input, producing a variable drive ratio; a planetary gearset including a member connected to the second drive, and a second member; a brake releasably holding the second member rotatably fixed; a first clutch releasably connecting the first member and an output; and a second clutch releasably connecting the second member and the first drive.
US09546718B2 System comprising a roller screw and a roller thrust bearing
The system comprises a roller screw mechanism 12 which is provided with a screw 16 which comprises at least a first outer threaded portion 18, a nut 20 and a plurality of rollers 24 which cooperate with the first outer portion 18 and an inner thread of the nut. The system further comprises a roller thrust bearing 14 which is mounted on a second outer portion 52 of the screw and which is provided with a bushing 50 and a plurality of rollers 56 which comprise flanks which cooperate with flanks of the second outer portion 52 of the screw and the bushing 50. The flanks of the screw, the bushing and the rollers are configured so that, during a rotation of the screw, the rollers 56 are fixed axially relative to the screw 16 and relative to the bushing 50.
US09546717B2 Ball screw
The invention relates to a ball screw (10) with a threaded spindle (12), a nut (14), rolling bodies (16) and at least one deflecting device (18, 20), wherein the threaded spindle (12) is displaceable by rotation, and wherein the deflecting device comprises an inner first body part (18) and an outer second body part (20), which body parts together form a deflecting channel (22), wherein the deflecting channel (22) has two tubular ends (24, 26) which are connected to each other via a transfer region (28), wherein the tubular ends (24, 26) of the deflecting channel are in each case formed by mutually complementary partial tubular sections (30, 32, 34, 36) of the body parts (18, 20), and wherein a sleeve (40) surrounding the nut (14) is provided, the deflecting device (18, 20) sits in an opening (42) in the nut (14), the deflecting device (18, 20) projects radially beyond the outer lateral surface of the nut (14) in a relaxed state when the sleeve (40) is absent and, in the presence of the sleeve (40), said sleeve exerts a radially inwardly directed force on the deflecting device (18, 20).
US09546714B2 Multi-stage transmission for vehicle
A multi-stage transmission for a vehicle may include an input shaft, an output shaft, first to fourth planetary gear devices disposed between the input shaft and the output shaft to transmit rotary force, each of them having three rotary elements, and at least six shifting elements connected to the rotary elements of the planetary gear devices, wherein a first rotary element of the first planetary gear device is continuously connected to the input shaft and variably connected to a second rotary element of the first planetary gear device, the second rotary element is installed to be fixable by one shifting element of the at least six shifting elements, and a third rotary element of the first planetary gear device is continuously connected to a second rotary element of the second planetary gear device and variably connected to a third rotary element of the third planetary gear device.
US09546712B2 Planetary gear train of automatic transmission for a vehicle
A planetary gear train of an automatic transmission for a vehicle may include an input shaft receiving rotary power of an engine, an output shaft outputting the rotary power with rotary speed changed, a first planetary gear set, a second planetary gear set, a third planetary gear set, a fourth planetary gear set, a first rotating shaft operating continuously as an input element by being directly connected with the input shaft, a second rotating shaft selectively connected with a transmission housing, a third rotating shaft, a fourth rotating shaft selectively connected with the transmission housing, a fifth rotating shaft selectively connected with the second rotating shaft, a sixth rotating shaft operating continuously as an output element by being directly connected with the output shaft, a seventh rotating shaft, an eighth rotating shaft selectively connected with the first, the fourth, and the seventh rotating shafts, and six friction elements.
US09546709B2 Crankshaft isolating pulley
An isolating pulley comprising a hub comprising an inertia carrier, the inertia carrier having an inner surface, a spring carrier journalled to the hub, the spring carrier having a releasable driving engagement with the inertia carrier, a pulley journalled to the hub, a spring drivingly engaged between the spring carrier and the pulley, a clutch spring having a frictional engagement with the inner surface, and which frictional engagement is partially releasable upon a temporary, pressing contact of the pulley upon the clutch spring.
US09546708B2 Torsional vibration damper
A torsional vibration damper is provided that is capable of increasing torsional rigidity without increasing a size of an elastic member in a radial direction. A torsional vibration damper includes a boss member and a disk plate provided coaxially with each other; an elastic member being elastically deformable in a rotation direction of the boss member; a cam member rotating integrally with the boss member; a torque transmission member transmitting rotation torque between the boss member and the disk plate; and a socket member provided between the torque transmission member and the elastic member and having a contact surface coming in contact with the torque transmission member. The torque transmission member is capable of entirely reciprocating in a radial direction of the boss member in accordance with rotation of the cam member, and elastically compresses the elastic member when it moves outward in the radial direction of the boss member.
US09546705B2 Bush
A bush (20) includes a base material (45) that is disposed at a vehicle body (12), an inter ring (48) that is integrally disposed at the base material (45), and a surface layer (51) that is disposed inside the inter ring (48). The inter ring (48) is arranged along an opening (47) in such a manner as to surround the opening (47). The surface layer (51) includes an insertion hole (52) and is integrally formed from a self-adhesive elastic material into a thin wall shape. A stabilized rod (14) is inserted into the insertion hole (52).
US09546704B2 Attachment structure for urging member
An attachment structure for an urging member includes an attachment member and a ring-like bushing. The attachment member has an insertion hole. The bushing is press-fitted in the insertion hole. The urging member includes an attached portion inserted in an inner side of the bushing. The bushing has a first portion arranged in the insertion hole and a second portion located outside the insertion hole. An inner diameter of the first portion is smaller than an inner diameter of the second portion.
US09546703B2 Transmission brake and torque limiting system
A vehicle includes a transmission, which is characterized by the absence of a friction clutch that is operable to limit torque transfer between the drive wheels and a shaft of the transmission, to prevent torque communication between the drive wheel and the shaft. The transmission includes a selectable one way clutch, which interconnects a housing of the transmission and the shaft. The selectable one way clutch is selectively operable to prevent rotation of the shaft in at least one rotational direction. The selectable one way clutch includes a torque limiting system, such as a ball-detent torque limiting mechanism, which is operable to prevent torque transfer greater than a pre-defined value, between the housing and the shaft.
US09546694B2 Flexible couplings for power transmission devices
A flexible coupling assembly includes a power transmitting body to carry a torsional load between opposed rotating members and a quill shaft for carrying an axial load extending through the cavity of the torsional body. The power transmitting body defines an axis, a longitudinally extending cavity, and a first and second flanged portions for coupling opposed rotating members. The quill shaft extends through the cavity of the power transmitting body, spanning the power transmitting body, and fixed to the first and second flanged portions for carrying the axial load across the power transmitting body.
US09546688B1 Axial control assembly and lubrication system
An axial control assembly comprises a bearing assembly and a bearing mount assembly, wherein the bearing mount assembly is structured to secure the bearing assembly in an operative configuration relative to a rotatable element of a mechanical device. The bearing assembly includes an inner bearing casing and an outer bearing casing structured to rotatably engage one another. The bearing mount assembly includes at least one axial control member disposed in an abutting relation to an axial load surface of one of the inner or outer bearing casings, and the axial control member is further positioned to counteract an axial load generated by a rotational movement of the rotational element of the mechanical device. A lubrication system provides a precisely controlled amount of lubricant to the bearing assembly during operation.
US09546683B2 Flanged bearing ring for a motor vehicle wheel bearing unit
A flanged bearing ring is formed of two different materials joined together as a single piece, specifically a radially inner annular insert and a flanged, radially outer lightweight body formed about the insert. The insert has one or more inner raceways and is formed of a hard material, such as bearing steel. The outer body is made of a lightweight material, such as aluminium alloy, with a higher thermal expansion coefficient higher than that of the hard material from which the inner insert is formed. A radial projection formed on the insert extends into a radial groove of the outer body. The projection and the recess interlock the insert and the outer body so as to prevent relative movement.
US09546682B2 Cage of a rolling bearing, rolling bearing comprising such a cage and apparatus comprising such a rolling bearing
A cage of a rolling bearing, the cage comprising: an annular heel centered on a central axis and having a constant radial thickness measured radially to the central axis; an axial portion extending from the heel substantially parallel to the central axis; and pockets delimited by the heel and the axial portion for receiving rolling elements. The axial portion has an axial length being greater than half the inner diameter of the pockets and an outside diameter being lesser than the outside diameter of the heel and which comprises between a first value equal to the pitch circle diameter of the cage minus half the radial thickness of the heel and a second value equal to the pitch circle diameter of the cage plus half the radial thickness of the heel. The pockets are spaced around the central axis having angular spacings being at least partly different from one another.
US09546680B2 Bearing component
A bearing component formed from a steel composition and providing carbon, silicon, manganese, chromium, cobalt, vanadium, and at least one of the following elements sulphur, phosphorous, molybdenum, aluminum, arsenic, tin, antimony, and the balance iron, together with impurities.
US09546675B2 Connector for use in display systems
A connector, for display systems having a display frame formed of a plurality of beams (1), has a male fitting (3) which has a stem (8) projecting from a plate (4), and a head (9) formed of four noses which project laterally from the stem. The head (9) is inserted in a correspondingly-shaped aperture of a female node fitting and rotated into positive engagement with the inner face of the node fitting. The trailing faces of the four noses have oppositely-inclined ramps which act to provide progressive tightening and alignment of the connector as the male part is rotated within the aperture. The connector provides a stable joint and enables a firm connection to be obtained with a smaller angle of rotation and reduced engagement force.
US09546667B2 Fan with metallic hub and plastic impeller and method for manufacturing such fan
An exemplary fan includes a hub and an impeller. The hub is made of metal, and includes a flange. The impeller is made of plastic. The impeller is formed around the hub and has the flange embedded therein. A method for manufacturing the fan is also provided.
US09546666B2 Impeller for fuel pump of vehicle
Provided is an impeller for a fuel pump of a vehicle capable of decreasing a magnitude of high frequency fluid noise due to high speed rotation of the impeller by upper and lower blades of impeller blades positioned between upper and lower casings of the fuel pump and coupled to a shaft of a driving motor to deliver a fuel by rotational force so as to have asymmetrical angles based on the center of a thickness of an impeller body in sucking the fuel from a fuel tank and supplying the fuel to an engine of an internal combustion engine.
US09546665B2 Levitating ceiling fan
A ceiling fan including a motor with a stator and a rotor, a downrod assembly having a longitudinal slot therein and a base portion, and a plurality of fan blades attached to the rotor. The motor is capable of sliding along the downrod assembly in order to change the position along the downrod assembly that the plurality of fan blades rotate. Additionally, the speed at which the plurality of fan blades rotate corresponds to the height above the base portion that the plurality of fan blades elevate.
US09546663B2 Heat circulation pump
A heat circulation pump includes a pump housing (1) with a pump impeller arranged therein which is driven by an electric motor arranged in a motor housing (8) which axially connects to the pump housing (1). The heat circulation pump also includes a terminal box (12) which is axially connected to the motor housing (8) in order to receive electric and/or electronic components of the engine control. A plug or socket (34) of an electric plug connection is arranged on the outside of the terminal box (12) for the electric connection. The plug or socket (34) is/are axially offset with respect to the terminal box (12) and is/are arranged adjacent to the motor housing (8).
US09546662B2 Medical pump
A surgical instrument includes a hub, a rotating member, an impeller, and an impeller enclosure. The hub has a proximal portion and a distal portion and defines a lumen therebetween. The distal portion of the hub includes a sleeve portion configured to rotatably support the rotating member. The rotating member extends through the hub and has a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end of the rotating member is configured to couple to an external driving mechanism. The impeller is coupled to the distal end of the rotating member and is configured to accelerate fluid flowing into or out of the lumen. The impeller enclosure is coupled to the distal portion of the hub and defines an impeller volume around the impeller. One or more openings are defined around the sleeve portion of the hub such that the lumen is in fluid communication with the impeller volume.
US09546658B2 Gas pump with a sealing oil groove
A gas pump including a first housing part (1) comprising a sealing surface (6); a second housing part (2) comprising a sealing surface (7); a delivery chamber (3) comprising an inlet (4) and an outlet (5) for a gas; and a delivery device (11, 12), which can be moved within the delivery chamber (3), for delivering the gas, wherein the housing parts (1, 2) are joined to each other such that they at least partially enclose the delivery chamber (3) over a circumference of the chamber, and such that their sealing surfaces (6, 7) abut each other in order to seal off the delivery chamber (3), and wherein a sealing recess (9) extends in at least one of the sealing surfaces (6, 7) around the delivery chamber (3) and is filled with a sealing liquid when the gas pump is in operation.
US09546655B2 Coupling shaft for gear pump
A shaft assembly includes a shaft with a first radial shoulder and a second radial shoulder. The first radial shoulder and the second radial shoulder each include at least one slot. An axial separation between the first radial shoulder and the second radial shoulder defines an axial distance SA along an axis of rotation. The at least one slot defines a lowermost radial dimension SR from the axis of rotation. A ratio of SR/SA is 0.25-0.77.
US09546654B2 Hydraulic motor-pump with fixed or variable displacement
The fixed or variable displacement hydraulic motor-pump (1) includes a motor-pump central rotor (3) in which a hydraulic cylinder (14) is arranged, the rotor (3) being in sealed contact with an input-output spool valve (43) connecting the cylinder (14) with a motor-pump frame (2) while a hydraulic piston (13) moves in the cylinder (14) to push, using a hydraulic piston guided plunger (18), a tangential arm (22) articulated in the central rotor (3), and a tangential arm antifriction roller (28) on a motor-pump peripheral rotor (29) synchronized in rotation with the motor-pump central rotor (3).
US09546652B2 System and method for monitoring and control of cavitation in positive displacement pumps
A system and method are disclosed for monitoring and controlling a positive displacement pump using readings obtained from a plurality of pressure sensors. The pressure sensors may be mounted at the suction, discharge and interstage regions of the pump. Signals from the pressure sensors are compared to obtain a ratio that is used to predict whether a cavitation condition exists within the pump. The ratio can be compared to user provided limits to change an operating characteristic of the pump to reduce predicted cavitation. The pump may be stopped, or pump speed changed, when the ratio is less than a predetermined value. In some embodiments, historical information regarding the ratio may be used to obtain standard deviation information which may then be used to predict whether gas bubbles are passing through the pump. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US09546651B2 Pump arrangement comprising a safety valve arrangement
A pump arrangement includes a microfluidic pump having a pump inlet and a pump outlet. The pump arrangement further includes a safety valve arrangement having first safety valve, the first safety valve being arranged between the pump outlet and an outlet of the pump arrangement and including a first valve seat and a first valve lid. The outlet of the pump arrangement and a first fluid region are formed in a first part of the pump arrangement, wherein the first valve lid is formed in a second integrated part of the pump arrangement, and wherein the first valve seat, the pump outlet and the pump inlet are patterned in a second surface of a third integrated part of the pump arrangement. The first fluid region is adjacent to the first valve lid, wherein a pressure in the first fluid region has a closing effect on the first safety valve.
US09546650B2 Water-conducting household appliance
An example water-conducting household appliance, in particular dishwasher, comprising a motor-pump and a vibration-damping one-piece mounting for fixing the motor-pump to the appliance, the mounting having a through-hole for receiving the motor-pump is provided herein. The motor-pump has a housing comprising a mounting-section with a cylindrically shaped outer surface, and the through-hole has a circular cross-section adapted for receiving the cylindrically shaped outer surface of the motor-pump. The housing has at least two protrusions extending in an outward direction beyond the cross-section of the through-hole for connecting the housing to the mounting, and the mounting has cut-outs extending from the circular cross-section of the through-hole in an outward direction, the cut-outs and the protrusions of the housing being shaped so that for fixing the motor-pump to the mounting, the motor-pump can be partially fed through the through-hole by feeding each protrusion through a corresponding cut-out of the mounting.
US09546649B2 Concrete pump with distributing boom
A work device has a stationary or movable frame which has a substructure fixed to the frame, a rotating head rotatable about a vertical rotational axis on a bearing block of the substructure by a drive mechanism, and an extension arm mounted on a bearing point of the rotating head in a pivotal manner about a horizontal pivot axis. A hydraulic cylinder piston unit has ends fixed to the cylinder and to the piston rod and hinged to hinge points on the extension-arm side and on the rotating-head side with a horizontal hinge axis. The rotating head has a base section arranged on the bearing block and an adapter piece including the bearing point for the extension arm and the hinge point on the rotating-head side for the cylinder piston unit. The base section and the adapter piece can be removably coupled to each other via a separating point.
US09546648B2 Dampeners for pumping systems
A drilling fluid pumping system including a pump apparatus with a pumping chamber having an inlet valve and an outlet valve and a dampener system in fluid communication with the pumping chamber for damping the flow of fluid, e.g. drilling fluid, This abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims, 37 C.F.R. 1.72(b).
US09546641B2 Facilitated handling of wind turbine blades
A device for facilitating handling of a wind turbine blade is provided. The device includes an inflatable member adapted to be arranged at the wind turbine blade such that the inflatable member covers at least a part of the wind turbine blade, wherein, when the inflatable member is arranged at the wind turbine blade and inflated, an aerodynamic drag coefficient of the wind turbine blade with the arranged inflatable member is less than an aerodynamic drag coefficient of the wind turbine blade. Further, there is described a system for handling a wind turbine blade, and a method of facilitating handling of a wind turbine blade.
US09546636B2 Work apparatus
A work apparatus has a work tool and a combustion engine which drives the work tool. The combustion engine has a rotatably mounted crankshaft. The work apparatus has a start enrichment device for the combustion engine. The start enrichment device includes an operating mode selector to be actuated by the operator. The start enrichment device has an operating position and at least one start position. The work apparatus has a reset unit which resets the start enrichment device from the start position into the operating position when the rotational speed of the crankshaft exceeds a reset rotational speed.
US09546633B2 Nozzle for skewed fuel injection
A nozzle for a fuel injector is disclosed. The nozzle may have a body having a base end, a tip end, and a central bore extending from the base end to the tip end. The nozzle may also have a sac located within the central bore at the tip end. Further, the nozzle may have an orifice located within the tip end and in communication with the sac. The orifice may be skewed at an azimuthal angle relative to a radial direction of the central bore.
US09546630B2 Injection valve
An injection valve for injecting fuel into a combustion chamber includes: a housing having at least one spray discharge orifice on a discharge side; a solenoid coil; a magnet armature linearly movable by the solenoid coil; a valve needle for opening and closing the spray discharge orifice, which valve needle projects through the magnet armature and is linearly movable along a longitudinal axis, the magnet armature being linearly movable in relation to the valve needle between a first stop and a second stop, the second stop being formed by a stop element having a stop face and a counter element having a counter face situated opposite the stop face, the stop element having an elastic design so that an angle between the longitudinal axis and the stop face is changed when the counter face strikes the stop face.
US09546629B2 Control device of diesel engine with turbocharger
A control device of a diesel engine is provided. The diesel engine includes an injector for injecting fuel into a cylinder, and a turbocharger for compressing intake air by using exhaust energy. The control device includes a calculating module for setting a basic injection timing determined according to an operating state of the engine, as a timing of injecting the fuel from the injector, and an injection control module for injecting the fuel from the injector at the set basic injection timing at least while the engine is in a steady operation.
US09546628B2 Identifying fuel system degradation
Various methods are thus provided for identifying degradation in a fuel system. In one embodiment, a method of operating a fuel system comprises applying a pulse to a fuel pump responsive to detecting that lift pump pressure corresponds to a fuel vapor pressure, ceasing application of the pulse responsive to detecting that the lift pump pressure corresponds to a relief setpoint pressure, and indicating degradation in the fuel system if the detected lift pump pressure deviates from an expected fuel rail pressure, including distinguishing among degradation in the fuel pump, a lower pressure fuel pressure sensor, a fuel rail pressure sensor, and a pressure relief valve.
US09546623B2 Assembly device for double-skinned aircraft fuel pipes
An assembly device between two sections of a double-skinned fuel pipe of an aircraft has a clamp for assembling the internal pipes, a coupling device for assembling the external pipes, a fitting extending between the ends of the external pipes of the first and second sections, with a shape complementary to the shape of an internal portion of the coupling device, and such that its section through any cutting plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis common to the coupling device and the external pipes contains the smallest surface delimited by: a line corresponding to the intersection of the internal surface of the coupling device with this cutting plane and a straight line cutting said line at two points, this straight line being tangential to the orthogonal projection in this cutting plane, of the internal surface of the external pipes of the first or of the second section.
US09546621B2 Carbon dioxide recirculation system
A system may include an engine, an exhaust passage, a carbon dioxide capture system, and a dosing valve. The engine includes a combustion chamber. The exhaust passage receives exhaust gas from the engine. The carbon dioxide capture system receives exhaust gas from the exhaust passage and may include a separation device, a pump and a first tank. The separation device removes carbon dioxide from the exhaust gas. The pump pumps the removed carbon dioxide to the first tank. A second tank may receive and store carbon dioxide from the first tank. The dosing valve may be in fluid communication with and disposed downstream of the second tank. The dosing valve may regulate a flow of carbon dioxide from the second tank to the engine.
US09546618B2 Methods and apparatus for passive thrust vectoring and plume deflection
A flow vectoring turbofan engine employs a fixed geometry fan sleeve and core cowl forming a nozzle incorporating an asymmetric convergent/divergent (con-di) and/or curvature section which varies angularly from a midplane for reduced pressure in a first operating condition to induce flow turning and axially symmetric equal pressure in a second operating condition for substantially axial flow.
US09546614B2 Fuel property detection apparatus
A fuel property detection apparatus detects fuel properties based on cetane number and density of a tested fuel. Tested fuel is examined in terms of ignition timing, and, when the tested fuel has an ignition timing earlier than a threshold, the tested fuel is identified as having a standard cetane number. When the tested fuel has an ignition timing later than the threshold, the tested fuel is identified as having a low cetane number. An advance angle of the ignition timing is increased for yielding a greater ignition timing difference between a light property fuel and a heavy property fuel, and, in such manner, the difference therebetween is detected. When an advancement of the ignition timing is greater than a threshold, the fuel property is identified as heavy, and, when an advancement of the ignition timing is smaller than the threshold, the fuel property is identified as light.
US09546605B2 Throttle control device for controlling engine torque
The present invention addresses a solution of improving precision with which requested torque at a time of a transient operation is realized in a control device for an internal combustion engine that controls torque that is generated by an internal combustion engine by control of an air amount by means of a throttle. To this end, the present control device calculates a target intake pipe pressure for realizing a target air amount, and calculates predicted pump loss from the target intake pipe pressure. By adding the predicted pump loss to requested torque to the internal combustion engine, 360° indicated requested torque that should be realized in a compression/expansion strokes is calculated. An air amount for realizing the 360° indicated requested torque is calculated as the target air amount, and an opening of the throttle is determined based on the target air amount.
US09546601B2 Clocked combustor can array
The present application provides a clocked combustor can array for coherence reduction in a gas turbine engine. The clocked combustor can array may include a number of combustor cans positioned in a circumferential array. A first set of the combustor cans may have a first orientation and a second set of the combustor cans may have a second orientation.
US09546600B2 Nozzle having an orifice plug for a gas turbomachine
A gas turbomachine nozzle includes a base portion having a first fluid inlet and a second fluid inlet, and an outlet portion having one or more outlets. A connection section fluidically connects the base portion and the outlet portion. An orifice plug is arranged in the base portion at the second fluid inlet. The orifice plug includes one or more openings fluidically connecting the second fluid inlet and the connection section.
US09546599B2 Turbine engine comprising an electrically activated fuel supply pump, and turbine engine fuel supply method
A turbine engine for an aircraft including a turbine engine shaft and a pumping module, including: a pump shaft, connected to the turbine engine shaft; a pump for supplying fuel to the turbine engine, mounted on the pump shaft, configured to deliver a flow of fuel as a function of a speed of rotation of the turbine engine shaft; and an electrical device mounted on the pump shaft and configured, according to a first mode of operation, to drive the pump shaft in rotation to actuate the supply pump and, according to a second mode of operation, to be driven in rotation by the pump shaft to supply electrical power to equipment of the turbine engine.
US09546594B2 Control of chamber combustion and operation of a guided-vane rotary internal combustion engine
A guided-vane rotary internal combustion engine including a plurality of working chambers which are separated from one another by way of vane assemblies which rotate with a rotor assembly about an axis employs a rotor assembly having a plurality of sectors wherein each sector is associated with a corresponding working chamber and a plurality of spark plugs wherein each spark plug is mounted within a corresponding sector for igniting an air/fuel mixture contained within a corresponding working chamber. A rotor disk is mounted upon the rotor assembly for rotation therewith and acts as a distributor through which energizing charges are conducted to the spark plugs. In addition, a controller is utilized for selectively activating or de-activating the working chambers of the engine upon the occurrence of a predetermined event.
US09546592B2 Controlling a compression release brake
A method and a system are described for a compression release brake in an engine comprising an exhaust manifold connected to a turbine provided with a variable turbine geometry wherein said turbine is further connected to a back pressure valve for controlling the pressure drop over said turbine wherein the method comprises the steps of: controlling said back pressure valve on the basis of a measured engine speed and a desired braking power; calculating a desired exhaust manifold gas pressure on the basis of said measured engine speed and said desired braking power; and, controlling said variable turbine geometry such that the difference between a measured exhaust manifold gas pressure and said calculated desired exhaust manifold gas pressure is minimized.
US09546589B2 Integrated cooling system and method for engine-powered unit
The present invention relates to an integrated cooling system for a vehicle. The system includes an engine cooling loop having a first fluid configured for circulation through an engine of the vehicle and a power electronics cooling loop having a second fluid configured for circulation through at least one power electronics component of the vehicle. The engine cooling loop is fluidly isolated from, and in thermal communication with, the power electronics cooling loop.
US09546584B2 Multi-stage SCR system
A multi-stage SCR system including a front reductant injecting device, a front mixer, a front SCR catalyst, a back reductant injecting device, a back mixer, a back SCR catalyst, and a DCU. The front and back reductant injecting devices receives reductant from an air-driven pump, which includes a liquid supply tank, a pressure tank, and solenoids control valves. Under pressure provided by a compress air source, reductant is pressed into the front and back reductant injecting devices from the air-driven pump. The front and back reductant devices also have flow-back paths fluidly connected to a reductant tank. And in purging or maintenance heating, the flow-back paths can be energized open. In the multi-stage SCR system, a DOC can be further positioned in between the two SCR devices for increasing the deNOx efficiency in the back SCR catalyst, so that the system is less sensitive to catalyst aging.
US09546579B2 Engine and straddle-type vehicle including the same
An engine 40 includes a breather device 20 and an oil passage defining member 30 disposed in the breather device 20. The breather device 20 includes a breather main body 22 integral with a crankcase 50, and a breather cover 24. The breather main body 22 and the breather cover 24 define an enclosed space 26 in communication with an inner space of the crankcase 50. The oil passage defining member 30 includes a first member 32 integral with the crankcase 50, and a second member 34. The first and second members 32 and 34 define an oil passage 38. The crankcase 50 includes a transmission chamber 60 in which a main shaft 72 and a drive shaft 74 are disposed, and oil feed holes 82A to 82C through which the oil passage 38 and the transmission chamber 60 are in communication with each other.
US09546577B2 Valve timing control apparatus
A valve timing control apparatus includes a driving-side rotating member, a driven-side rotating member, a fluid pressure chamber defined by the driving-side rotating member and the driven-side rotating member and divided into a retarded angle chamber and an advanced angle chamber by a parting portion, an angle detecting portion detecting a relative angle of the driven-side rotating member relative to the driving-side rotating member, a fluid control mechanism controlling a supply and a discharge of an operation fluid to and from the fluid pressure chamber, an acceleration operation quantity detecting mechanism detecting an acceleration operation quantity, and a control portion setting either a normal drive mode or an acceleration drive mode as a control mode relative to the fluid control mechanism based on the acceleration operation quantity, and controlling the fluid control mechanism so that the relative angle corresponds to a target angle determined based on the set control mode.
US09546575B2 Fuel vaporization using data center waste heat
Systems and methods are provided for data center cooling by vaporizing fuel using data center waste heat. The systems include, for instance, an electricity-generating assembly, a liquid fuel storage, and a heat transfer system. The electricity-generating assembly generates electricity from a fuel vapor for supply to the data center. The liquid fuel storage is coupled to supply the fuel vapor, and the heat transfer system is associated with the data center and the liquid fuel storage. In an operational mode, the heat transfer system transfers the data center waste heat to the liquid fuel storage to facilitate vaporization of liquid fuel to produce the fuel vapor for supply to the electricity-generating assembly. The system may be implemented with the liquid fuel storage and heat transfer system being the primary fuel vapor source, or a back-up fuel vapor source.
US09546568B2 Cooling structure of bearing housing for turbocharger
A cooling structure for a bearing housing for a turbocharger is provided. The cooling structure is configured so that the cooling structure has improved productivity, the occurrence of heat soak-back is reduced, and the cooling structure has improved cooling performance. The cooling structure cools both a bearing housing 13 and a bearing 52 by cooling water flowing through an annular cooling water path 13f formed in the bearing housing 13, and is provided with: a water path inlet 13h for supplying the cooling water and a water path outlet 13j for discharging the cooling water, which are provided in the bearing housing 13 to communicate with the annular cooling water path 13f; and a partial partition 14a in the bearing housing 13 to partially close a water path which forms the shortest route between the water path inlet 13h and the water path outlet 13j.
US09546567B2 Turbine exhaust section structures with internal flow passages
A system is provided including a turbine exhaust section. The turbine exhaust section includes an exhaust flow path. The turbine exhaust section also includes an outer structure having an outer casing, an outer exhaust wall disposed along the exhaust flow path, and an outer cavity disposed between the outer exhaust wall and the outer casing. The turbine exhaust section further includes an inner structure having an inner exhaust wall disposed along the exhaust flow path, an inner cavity disposed between the inner exhaust wall and an inner casing, and a bearing cavity disposed between the inner casing and a bearing housing. In addition, the turbine exhaust section includes a strut extending between the outer structure and the inner structure. The strut includes a first flow passage configured to flow a fluid from the inner cavity to the outer cavity.
US09546558B2 Damping resonator with impingement cooling
A resonance chamber (42) has an outer wall (32) with coolant inlet holes (34A-C), an inner wall (36) with acoustic holes (38), and side walls (40A-C) between the inner and outer walls. A depression (33A-C) in the outer wall has a bottom portion (50) that is close to the inner wall compared to peaks (37A-C) of the outer wall. The coolant inlet holes may be positioned along the bottom portion of the depression and along a bottom portion of the side walls to direct coolant flows (44, 51) toward impingement locations (43) on the inner wall that are out of alignment with the acoustic holes. This improves impingement cooling efficiency. The peaks (37A-C) of the outer wall provide volume in the resonance chamber for a target resonance.
US09546550B2 Bypass foil
An apparatus for providing electrical power includes a foil having a leading inlet, at least rotor internal to the foil and downstream from the inlet and a trailing flow separator partially within a trailing chamber. The apparatus also includes leading and trailing edges configured such that fluid flowing through the foil experiences decreased pressure and increased velocity at the trailing edges relative to the leading edges. In a method utilizing the disclosed apparatus within a fluid flow, a first quantity of a high-pressure fluid is passed, at a low velocity, into the leading inlet of the bypass foil. One or more rotors are rotated by the flow and the rotational energy is translated into electrical power with a generator. After turning the rotors, quantity of fluid is ejected, at a high velocity, to the trailing edges of the bypass foil at an area of low fluid pressure.
US09546548B2 Methods for locating a cement sheath in a cased wellbore
A distributed acoustic wave detection system and method is provided. The system may include a fiber optic cable deployed in a well and configured to react to pressure changes resulting from a propagating acoustic wave and an optical source configured to launch interrogating pulses into the fiber optic cable. In addition, the system may include a receiver configured to detect coherent Rayleigh noise produced in response to the interrogating pulses. The CRN signal may be used to track the propagation of the acoustic waves in the well. Such capability allows the location of the cement sheath, as well as measuring the bonding of cement to at least a casing string at least partially surrounded by a cement sheath.
US09546547B2 Monitoring of wells to detect the composition of matter in boreholes and propped fractures
There is provided a system and method for monitoring of fractured wells and conventional wells to detect leaks. The method comprises interrogating a plurality of resonant tags using a modulated RF signal transmitted from an interrogator, wherein the plurality of resonant tags are dispersed within a channel.
US09546545B2 Multi-level wellsite monitoring system and method of using same
A system for monitoring wellsite equipment at a wellsite is disclosed. The system includes a plurality of client devices. Each client device has radios with programmable channels. The client devices include a source client device, a base station client device, and a repeater client device. The source client device is mounted to the wellsite equipment and includes a sensor to measure wellsite parameters of the wellsite equipment. The base station client device is coupled to the surface unit for communication therewith. The repeater client device is positioned at the wellsite to communicate with the source client device and the base station client device.
US09546543B2 Remote controlled drilling rig
A remote controlled drilling rig that is fully functional includes a drilling rig, an electrical assembly, and a remote. The drilling rig includes a truck for towing a semi-trailer on which is positioned a derrick and a drilling assembly. The electrical assembly is positioned within the drilling rig and includes a battery for powering components of the drilling rig, in addition to a receiver and circuit board for receiving and processing command signals respectively. The receiver is communicably coupled to a transmitter housed within a casing of the remote. A plurality of controls is used to send input commands to the transmitter, which are in turn transmitted to the receiver in order to control functions of the drilling rig, such as raising and lowering the derrick. A draw-works assembly allows for raising and lowering a traveling block within the derrick by winding and unwinding a drilling cable connected between.
US09546542B2 Method of exploiting potassium salts from an underground deposit
The present invention pertains to a mineral exploitation method and, more specifically, to a method for extracting potassium salts from underground deposits. In the method according to the present invention, an intermediary stage is carried out between the primary mining and secondary mining stages, and in this intermediary stage sinks (8) are created that receive the water-immiscible fluid (9) used in the primary mining stage, exposing an amount of potassium chloride remaining on the cavern ceiling, at the end of the primary mining stage, which will be dissolved by a second solvent during the secondary mining stage.
US09546541B2 Gas lift valves
A method can include selecting a ratio of a first effective cross-sectional area of a first component of a gas lift valve to a second effective cross-sectional area of a second component of the gas lift valve; charging a chamber of the gas lift valve; and positioning the gas lift valve in a pocket to expose the gas lift valve to a tubing pressure and a casing pressure, where transitioning of the gas lift valve from a closed state to an open state depends at least in part on the selected ratio. Various other apparatuses, systems, methods, etc., are also disclosed.
US09546539B2 Downhole power generation
Downhole electrical power generation apparatus and methods of using stored pressurized gas and/or ambient downhole pressure. One example comprises first and second fluid receiving chambers, a fluid communication path for allowing flow of fluid from the first chamber via the fluid communication path to the second chamber and a turbine generator disposed so that fluid flowing from the first chamber via the fluid communications path to the second chamber operates the turbine generator to generate electrical power.
US09546538B2 Multi-stage fracturing with smart frack sleeves while leaving a full flow bore
Fracking ports are initially obstructed with respective biased sleeves that have an associated release device responsive to a unique signal. The signal can be electronic or magnetic and delivered in a ball or dart that is dropped or pumped past a sensor associated with each release device. Each sensor is responsive to a unique signal. When the signal is received the release device allows the bias to shift the sleeve to open the fracture port and to let a flapper get biased onto an associated seat. The flapper and seat are preferably made from a material that eventually disappears leaving an unobstructed flow path in the passage. The method calls for repeating the process in an uphole direction until the entire zone is fractured. The flapper and seat can dissolve or otherwise disappear with well fluids, thermal effects, or added fluids to the well.
US09546527B2 Wet connection system for downhole equipment
A wet connection system suitable for use in hydrocarbon wells preferably comprises one or more elongate, small diameter conduits (50) which extend down the wellbore (2) and terminate adjacent a locating structure (11) on the production tubing (10). Equipment (70) deployed at the locating structure is connected to one or more self supporting conductors (30) which extend down the conduits from the wellhead (5). Preferably the conductors are retractable and the conduits are sealingly connected to the equipment, allowing the equipment and conductors to be deployed and recovered independently of each other and to be flushed with dielectric oil (99) pumped down the conduits after re-connection.
US09546526B2 Torque wrench apparatus and method for making and breaking joints
A torque wrench apparatus comprises a top wrench, a bottom wrench, and a middle wrench. The top and bottom wrenches are configured such that either one of them rotates a first joint in a first direction, and the middle wrench is configured to rotate a second joint in a second direction opposite the first direction; or the top and bottom wrenches are configured such that either one of them immobilizes a first joint, and the middle wrench is configured to rotate a second joint in a first direction; or the middle wrench is configured to immobilize a first joint, and the top and bottom wrenches are configured such that either one of them rotates a second joint in a second direction opposite the first direction. A method for making and breaking joints with the apparatus is also introduced.
US09546523B1 Collars for multiple tubulars
A collar for axially positioning a vortex-induced vibration (VIV) suppression device along a tubular is disclosed. The collar has an annular body portion and a plurality of support members extending in a radial direction from the annular body portion. The support members are annularly spaced around the annular body portion such that gaps are formed between the support members, the gaps being dimensioned to receive an auxiliary tubular positioned external to a main tubular around which the annular body portion is positioned.
US09546519B2 Boring ram
A ram for boring through soil, including an elongate body terminating at one end in a head, wherein during use the head is separated from the body to form a channel therebetween for the soil to pass through from one side of the ram to another side of the ram.
US09546514B2 Method for the production of fire resistant glazings
Fire resistant glazings having improved properties comprising a silicate based interlayer which contains from 35% to 43% by weight of water may be produced using a cast in place process. The amount of water in the interlayer is reduced by concentrating the silicate solution or by introducing silica in the form of a silica sol. Preferably a mixture of an aqueous sol and an organosol is used. Polyhydroxy compounds and saccharides may be incorporated into the interlayer to improve the properties thereof and to reduce the water content. The silicate based formulations are pourable and can be used in a cast in place production process and subsequently cured to form an optically clear interlayer.
US09546512B2 Closure for a compartment
The invention provides a closures (106) for a compartment (100) having one or more walls (112, 114, 116, 118) and an opening (110) defined by at least one of the walls (112, 114, 116, 118). The closure (106) is associated with at least one fastener located inside the compartment (100). The fastener can hold the closure (106) in a first position (eg. closed) relative to the opening (110). The fastener is adapted to cause the closure (106) to assume a second position (eg. open) relative to the opening (110) upon receipt of a suitable signal. The closure (106) has at least one indicium (108) visible from outside the compartment (110). The indicium (108) is adapted to provide a visual indication of a status of the closure (106) or the compartment (110), such as closure open, closure closed, compartment empty, compartment occupied. Instead of indicium (108) or in addition to it, the closure of the invention can include in the fastener means for communicating to a remote device, a status of the closure or the compartment. The closure and the compartment may form an array with other closures and compartments having similar fasteners. In that event, the fastener in each compartment may be addressable.
US09546511B2 Adjustable overhead door hinge
A hinge for a multi-panel door includes a first bracket, a second bracket pivotally coupled to the first bracket, and a carrier link carrying a roller adapted to engage in a door track. The first bracket is adapted to be operably attached to a first panel of the multi-panel door, the second bracket is adapted to be operably attached to second panel of the multi-panel door, and the carrier link is pivotally attached to one of the first bracket or the second bracket. The carrier link is selectively positionable in a plurality of pre-defined positions, such that at each of the pre-defined positions, the roller is disposed at a different position relative to the first bracket and the second bracket so that the roller can be spaced apart a variety of different distances from the door.
US09546504B2 Motorised door lock actuator
Actuation system for a door lock, where the door lock comprises a lock bolt driven by rotation of a lock pin that is functionally connected to the lock bolt. The actuation system comprises a cylindrical handle (5) with an outer diameter of between 6 and 9 cm. The system comprises a first pin receiver (8a) centred on the cylinder axis and a second pin receiver (8b) provided off centred between the cylinder axis and the cylindrical handle in order to be flexible with respect to post-mounting the actuating system on doors with already existing lock.
US09546501B2 All-weather, portable and modular awning system
An awning system for a canopy that couples to two legs of the canopy is disclosed. The awing includes a fabric cover and frameworks. The supportive frameworks include a pair of side supports, each attached to a leg of the canopy and a laterally telescoping crossbeam that attaches to the distal ends of the side supports. The frameworks further include a plurality of tent poles connected perpendicularly to the side supports. The poles support the fabric cover in an upwardly arched shape to facilitate the shedding of water. A tension pole is connected to the bottom of a proximal fabric panel and the top of the distal fabric panel using a system of fabric pockets. The fabric cover is removably attached to the frameworks. The awning provides all-weather protection and may display a sign. Removable rain gutters attach to the awning supports and channel water down legs of the canopy.
US09546498B2 Composite structural support arm
A fiber-reinforced composite structure, such as a cross arm for use in the power industry, having a rectangular outer cross-sectional shape and an inner hollow core having a curvilinear cross sectional shape. The present invention provides a composite structural element or device including, but not limited to, a cross arm or beam that can be applied in a variety of industrial and non-industrial settings including, but not limited to, the power distribution industry.
US09546497B2 Link-plate connection for monopole reinforcing bars
Reinforcing bars include load transfer connectors. A link plate includes openings that mate with the load transfer connectors to overlie the splice between reinforcing bars being spliced. A cover plate may be fastened over the link plate.
US09546490B2 Method for reinforcing a building component
A method for reinforcing a part of a building comprises the step of adhesively bonding a textile to the surface of the part of a building by means of an adhesive. The invention relates further to such a reinforced part of a building and to the use of a textile in combination with an adhesive for reinforcing a part of a building, wherein the textile is adhesively bonded to the surface of the part of a building by means of an adhesive.
US09546489B2 Formwork support scaffold structure
This invention relates to a formwork support member, and a scaffold structure formed from at least a pair of adjacent formwork support members. The formwork support member comprises at least two spaced vertical members, at least one connecting member bridging said vertical members to form thereby a rigid formwork support member, each vertical member including a plurality of attachment means at spaced intervals there-along for releasable attachment thereto of at least one brace member extending between adjacent formwork support members to form the scaffold structure.
US09546487B2 Device for fastening a ceiling profile
A device is described for fastening a ceiling profile (8) for the transition between a wall (9) and a ceiling (10) having a holder (1), which has a wall leg (2) and two holding webs (6), which engage in longitudinal grooves (7) of the ceiling profile (8). To provide simple structural conditions, it is proposed that the holder (1) forms a plastic profile having a carrying leg (3) which protrudes downward from the wall leg (2) at an acute angle, and having a support leg (4) which connects the wall leg (2) on top to the carrying leg (3), the holding legs (6) extending transversely to the wall leg (2) protrude from the carrying leg (3), and the carrying leg (3) is extended beyond the support leg (4) to form a springy catch hook (14), which interacts with a catch stop (16) of the ceiling profile (8).
US09546485B2 Roof curb
A curb assembly is provided for mounting on a sloped, standing seam metallic roof, in order to provide support for a roof fixture, such as an exhaust fan or skylight. The curb assembly includes a box-like structure mounted atop the roof in surrounding relationship to a roof opening. The curb assembly further includes an underlying, below-roof frame assembly. Specialized upper and lower end connection structure serves to securely mount the curb assembly to the metal roof.
US09546481B2 Vacuum insulation material
A vacuum insulation material includes a pair of gas barrier exterior materials, a core material including a cellulose structure having porosity of greater than or equal to about 80% under reduced pressure of about 1 Pa, where the cellulose structure has a unit length of greater than or equal to about 1 μm and less than or equal to about 5 mm in the heat-insulation direction, and the method of manufacturing the same, and a gas adsorption agent, where the core material and the gas adsorption agent are interposed between the pair of gas barrier exterior materials and sealed inside of the pair of gas barrier exterior materials under reduced pressure.
US09546475B2 Valve member assembly
A valve member assembly includes a housing, a check valve assembly, and a float valve assembly. The housing is a cup, a retainer and a bonnet releasably secured together. The check valve assembly is positioned within the cup, and the float valve assembly is positioned between the bonnet and the retainer. The valve member assembly can be easily assembled and inserted into a valve body.
US09546474B2 System, apparatus and method for creating and/or dispensing a mixture of water and a personal care liquid
A system for dispensing or and/or creating a mixture of water and a personal care liquid (PC), such, as soap, shampoo, antibacterial liquids, disinfectant liquids, liquid dishwashing detergents, or other sanitization fluids. The system, in one embodiment, is used in conjunction with a faucet that is mounted adjacent a washbasin to dispense the mixture. In an embodiment, a mixing unit is included in the system that comprises a venturi and a pressure compensating control device. In another embodiment, a pinch valve is utilized to control the introduction of the PCL into the water flow. In yet another embodiment, at least one water pressure actuatable valve is utilized to control the introduction of the PCL into the water flow.
US09546469B2 Device to actuate a fluid connector contamination cover
A device to actuate a contamination cover on a machine bracket, the device comprising a master cylinder positioned on the machine bracket; a first slave cylinder positioned on the machine bracket and connected to the contamination cover; and a closed master-slave circuit connecting the master cylinder to the slave cylinder wherein the actuation of the master cylinder drives the slave cylinder for the transition of the contamination cover from a close to an open position.
US09546462B2 Rotor and rotor housing for a snowthrower
A self-propelled snowthrower wherein, in one embodiment, drive members on each side of the snowthrower provide variable speed propulsion. A transmission that delivers power to the drive members may be adapted to de-clutch one of the two drive wheels when the ground speed of that wheel exceeds the driving speed of the transmission. In other embodiments, the snowthrower includes a rotor having a snow ejection surface forming a negative rake angle. Yet other embodiments include a chute rotation control mechanism that permits manual discharge chute rotation via one-handed input.
US09546452B2 Process for manufacturing paperboard
A method of producing a paper board comprising: a pulping step of disintegrating and beating fibers from a pulp raw material containing waste paper as a main raw material to obtain pulping process water; a stock preparation step of adding an additive containing a paper strength additive to the obtained pulping process water to obtain a prepared pulp raw material; and a paper-making step of making the obtained prepared pulp raw material into a paper board, wherein the paper board is produced by adding (a) an aqueous solution of hypochlorite and (b) an aqueous solution of water-soluble inorganic ammonium salt or ammonia water to the pulping process water to reduce the amount of the paper strength additive added in the stock preparation step.
US09546449B2 Process to improve the convertability of parent rolls
The present disclosure is directed toward a process for adjusting a papermaking process for producing parent rolls of convolutely wound web material having a machine direction (MD) and a cross-machine direction (CD) coplanar and orthogonal thereto that improves the characteristics of the parent rolls of wound web material to improve downstream convertability.
US09546447B2 Elevator load bearing assembly having a jacket with multiple polymer compositions
An elevator load bearing assembly (30) includes a jacket (34) having different portions comprising different polymer compositions. In a disclosed example, a plurality of tension members (32) are at least partially surrounded by a first portion (36) comprising a first polymer composition. A second portion (38) establishes at least one exterior surface (40) of the jacket (34) and comprises a second polymer composition. In one example, a surface-modifying agent is added to alter the composition of at least a portion of the jacket (34). In another example, co-extrusion techniques using different polymer compositions establish different portions of the jacket (34).
US09546443B2 Washing machine and control method thereof
Disclosed are a washing machine and a control method thereof. The control method of the washing machine, including two or more balancing units which are independently movable, includes sensing the weight of laundry to be washed while identically maintaining a phase difference between the two or more balancing units and rotating a drum, and reducing eccentricity of the drum while moving at least one of the two or more balancing units simultaneously with rotation of the drum.
US09546441B1 Embroidery decoration
An embroidery decoration has an outer frame and a stitching plate. The stitching plate is detachably mounted in the outer frame. An outer periphery of the stitching plate abuts an inner periphery of the outer frame. The stitching plate has multiple through holes formed through the plate surfaces for needles and threads to directly pass through for stitching on the stitching plate. After stitching, the outer frame, the stitching plate and the thread on the stitching plate form the end product. The stitching plate is solid in a fixed shape, thereby eliminating the problem of loosening and facilitating convenience in stitching. The embroidery decoration is mainly composed of two components made by plastic injection molding, such that the manufacturing cost is reduced.
US09546439B2 Process of making short fiber nonwoven molded articles
A method of forming a nonwoven article comprising receiving fibrous material comprising thermoplastic fibers; processing the fibrous material to produce short fibers, wherein the processing step comprises granulation using at least one granulator with a screen; distributing the short fibers approximately evenly across an area to form a short fiber web, wherein the distributing step comprises a use of a recyclate spreader; heating the short fiber web to fuse the short fibers to form a nonwoven material; and forming a sheet of the nonwoven material.
US09546437B2 Ingot, silicon carbide substrate, and method for producing ingot
An ingot in which generation of crack is sufficiently suppressed is obtained. The ingot includes: a seed substrate formed of silicon carbide; and a silicon carbide layer grown on the seed substrate and containing nitrogen atoms. The silicon carbide layer has a thickness of 15 mm or more in a growth direction. In the silicon carbide layer, a concentration gradient of the nitrogen atoms in the growth direction is 5×1017 atoms/cm4 or less.
US09546434B2 High-temperature process improvements using helium under regulated pressure
A method for minimizing unwanted ancillary reactions in a vacuum furnace used to process a material, such as growing a crystal. The process is conducted in a furnace chamber environment in which helium is admitted to the furnace chamber at a flow rate to flush out impurities and at a predetermined pressure to achieve thermal stability in a heat zone, to minimize heat flow variations and to minimize temperature gradients in the heat zone. During cooldown helium pressure is used to reduce thermal gradients in order to increase cooldown rates.
US09546433B1 Separation of alpha emitting species from plating baths
A non alpha controlled plating bath including Tin species and a trace amount of Polonium species is utilized in a plating tool. The plating tool includes a Polonium filter element to remove Polonium species from the plating bath to selectively plate Tin upon a plating cathode. The filter may include a Titanium inner portion surrounding by a stannic oxide exterior. The filter may reduce the Polonium species by having the polonium absorb and then enter within the stannic oxide matrix. The filter may be located within the plating tool reservoir or filter housing. The filter may be fabricated by forming Tin upon a Titanium filter backbone and converting the Tin to stannic oxide.
US09546432B2 Dense oxide coated component of a plasma processing chamber and method of manufacture thereof
A method of forming a dense oxide coating on an aluminum component of semiconductor processing equipment comprises cold spraying a layer of pure aluminum on a surface of the aluminum component to a predetermined thickness. A dense oxide coating is then formed on the layer of pure aluminum using a plasma electrolytic oxidation process, wherein the plasma electrolytic oxidation process causes the layer of pure aluminum to undergo microplasmic discharges, thus forming the dense oxide coating on the layer of pure aluminum on the surface of the aluminum component.
US09546431B2 Electrochemical fabrication methods incorporating dielectric materials and/or using dielectric substrates
Some embodiments of the present invention are directed to techniques for building up single layer or multi-layer structures on dielectric or partially dielectric substrates. Certain embodiments deposit seed layer material directly onto substrate materials while other embodiments use an intervening adhesion layer material. Some embodiments use different seed layer materials and/or adhesion layer materials for sacrificial and structural conductive building materials. Some embodiments apply seed layer and/or adhesion layer materials in what are effectively selective manners while other embodiments apply the materials in blanket fashion. Some embodiments remove extraneous depositions (e.g. depositions to regions unintended to form part of a layer) via planarization operations while other embodiments remove the extraneous material via etching operations. Other embodiments are directed to the electrochemical fabrication of multilayer mesoscale or microscale structures which are formed using at least one conductive structural material, at least one conductive sacrificial material, and at least one dielectric material. In some embodiments the dielectric material is a UV-curable photopolymer.
US09546429B1 Multi-strand electrode and method of making
An electrode having a plurality of connected strands retained by a current collector is described. A connected strand has first and second ends that are retained by a current collector, and may be retained at different locations along the length of the current collector. A connected strand retained by the current collector in substantially the same location along the current collector, is a looped strand. A connected strand provides two paths for current to move through the strand to the current collector and may therefore provide lower resistance than a free strand having only one end coupled to the current collector. Furthermore, a connected may move less as a function of fluid forces and retain more bio-film in turbulent conditions than free strands. Finally, a connected strand has no free extended end and therefore is less likely to puncture through an ion conductive membrane.
US09546427B2 System and method for generating a chlorine-containing compound
A system (10) for generating a chlorine-containing compound includes an anodic chamber (12), a cathodic chamber (20), and a brine chamber (30). The anodic chamber (12) includes an anodic electrode (14) and the cathodic chamber (20) includes a cathodic electrode (22). A membrane (28) separates the anodic and cathodic chambers (12), (20). The brine chamber (30) includes an anodic electrode (32) and a cathodic electrode (34). Concentration and type of the chlorine-containing compound can be selectively and consistently controlled by the system (10) in real time.
US09546422B2 Semiconductor device manufacturing method and substrate processing method including a cleaning method
A semiconductor device manufacturing method includes: a step wherein a processing substrate to be processed is placed on a substrate mounting member that is provided in a processing chamber having a plurality of gas supply regions; a film-forming step wherein a processing gas is supplied to the processing chamber, and the substrate is processed; a step wherein the substrate is carried out from the processing chamber; and a cleaning step wherein the density of the cleaning gas is controlled, while controlling cleaning gas quantities in the gas supply regions, respectively, in a state wherein the substrate is not placed in the processing chamber.
US09546411B2 Aluminum-alloy sheet and method for producing the same
An aluminum-alloy sheet includes 0.10 to 0.40 mass % of Si, 0.35 to 0.80 mass % of Fe, 0.10 to 0.35 mass % of Cu, 0.20 to 0.80 mass % of Mn, and 1.5 to 2.5 mass % of Mg, the balance being Al and unavoidable impurities, wherein a content ratio (Si/Fe) of the Si to the Fe is 0.75 or less, the solute Mn content is 0.12 to 0.20 mass %, and the aluminum-alloy sheet has a proof stress of 225 N/mm2 or more after having been baked at 270° C. for 20 seconds.
US09546410B2 Bronze alloy for musical instrument, and percussion instrument using the same
The present invention aims at providing bronze alloy for a musical instrument that has high strength and processability and is provided with excellent acoustic characteristics by addition of Zr. The bronze alloy for a musical instrument according to the present invention has a component composition that contains 18% by mass to 26% by mass of Sn, 0.0005% by mass to 0.25% by mass of Zr, and a remainder consisting of Cu and inevitable impurities. Bronze alloy for a musical instrument having high strength and processability is obtained by setting the component composition as described above. Furthermore, from the frequency analysis result shown in FIG. 6A, in Example 13, higher harmonic components increase and low frequency waves also increase as compared with Comparative Example 2, and it is known that the enhancement of sound qualities such as complexity of beat sounds, profound feeling, and audibility is obtained.
US09546407B2 Mixture to increase the effectiveness of antiseptics and/or disinfectants, an agent containing the mixture, and the use of this mixture
The invention relates to the increase (improvement) of the effectiveness of antiseptics and/or disinfectants administered in a mixture with hydrolytic or proteolytic enzymes to a mucous membrane, a skin of a mammal or inanimate surfaces in the form of a solution, gel, paste, capsules or other as an agent. The use of the mixture is also stated.
US09546406B2 Microorganisms capable of fixing carbon oxides and performing fermentation and the preparation method and use of the same
A microorganism capable of fixing a carbon oxide and performing fermentation and its preparation method and use are provided, wherein the preparation method comprises: (a) providing a first parental strain which is able to fix a carbon oxide; (b) providing a second parental strain which is able to perform fermentation; (c) preparing a first protoplast and a second protoplast from the first parental strain and the second parental strain, respectively; (d) subjecting the first protoplast and the second protoplast to fuse to provide a fusant; and (e) incubating and selecting the fusant to obtain a target strain. The target strain is useful in the production of an organic compound such as an organic acid and an alcohol, and one embodiment of the target strain is Clostridium tyrobutyricum ITRI02001, deposited at German Collection of Microorganisms and Cell Cultures (Deutsche Sammlung von Mikroorganismen and Zellkulturen GmbH, DSMZ) under the accession number DSM 32077.
US09546405B2 Detection of Listeria species in food and environmental samples, methods and compositions thereof
Embodiments of the disclosure relate to isolated nucleic acid sequences, methods of use thereof, and workflows for detection of several Listeria species in a sample, particularly in a food or environmental sample. Embodiments of the disclosure may also be used to detect one or more species or strains of Listeria from each other, for example L. grayi may be detected independently of other Listeria spp. Some embodiments also describe a duplexed assay that can detect L. monocytogenes, L. innocua, L. welshimeri, L. seelgeri, L. marthii (formerly incertae-sedis), L. ivanovii, and L. grayi. Kits for detection of Listeria are also described. In some embodiments, methods and kits of the disclosure may comprise a TAQMAN® assay. In some embodiments, 0.2-2 cfu of Listeria spp. are detected using the compositions, methods and kits after a 24-28 hour enrichment period.
US09546403B1 Substrate for methylated DNA testing
Methods, kits and compositions drawn related to providing controls in diagnostic testing are provided. In one embodiment, a method of verifying proper function of a test for detecting and/or classifying a disease or disorder for which manifestation of a methylated gene is a biomarker is provided. The method includes performing a test for detecting, monitoring, or classifying a disease or disorder, or predisposition thereto, for which manifestation of a methylated gene is a biomarker and verifying proper function of the test by performing (e.g. duplicating or repeating) the test utilizing a control that originates from at least one pregnant female animal. The test includes determining the methylation status of at least one biomarker from a biological sample obtained from an animal subject and verifying proper function of the test by performing the test utilizing a control that originates from at least one pregnant female animal.
US09546402B2 Diagnosis of hereditary spastic paraplegias (HSP) by detection of a mutation in the KIAA1840 gene or protein
An ex vivo method of diagnosing or predicting an hereditary spastic paraplegias (HSP) in a subject is provided which comprises detecting a mutation in the KIAA1840 gene or protein (spatacsin), wherein that mutation is indicative of an hereditary spastic paraplegias (HSP).
US09546401B2 Assays and methods for selecting a treatment regimen for a subject with depression
Disclosed herein are novel assays, systems and kits for selecting a treatment regimen for a subject with depression by identifying at least one nucleic acid polymorphism, e.g., but not limited to, at the MTHFR, MTR, or MTRR locus, and/or determining expression levels of peripheral biomarkers (e.g., SAM, SAH, 4-HNE, and/or hsCRP) in a test sample from a human subject. These biomarkers can be used to determine the effectiveness of treating a depressed subject with a folate-containing compound (alone or as an adjunct to an antidepressant). Additionally, these biomarkers can be used to select an appropriate treatment regimen for subjects with treatment-resistant depression (e.g., resistant to at least one selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor). Methods and compositions for treating at least one symptom (e.g., at least one core symptom) of depression in a subject and/or determining or improving the effectiveness of an antidepressant drug taken by a subject are also provided herein.
US09546398B2 Polymerase idling method for single molecule DNA sequencing
A method for sequencing a nucleic acid is provided. In certain embodiments the method comprises obtaining a duplex comprising a nucleic acid and a primer, wherein the primer has a nuclease resistant 3′ end, combining the duplex with a chain terminator nucleotide and a proof-reading polymerase to produce a reaction in which the polymerase idles on the added chain terminator nucleotide, identifying the chain terminator nucleotide added to the end of the primer; and adding a nuclease-resistant nucleotide to the end of the primer after the polymerase has idled on and removed the added chain terminator nucleotide, thereby producing a duplex comprising the template and an extended primer that has a nuclease resistant 3′ end.
US09546395B2 Methods and systems for monitoring biofilm growth
Systems and methods for monitoring biofilm growth are provided. A method comprises supporting at least one coupon in a water reservoir, wherein the water reservoir feeds water into a tower interior, removing the at least one coupon from the water reservoir, and measuring a level of biofilm growth on the at least one coupon. The level of biofilm growth on the at least one coupon is predictive of a level of biofilm growth within the tower interior. Providing an indicator of predictive biofilm growth may allow measures to be taken to prevent biofilm growth in other sectors or areas of the tower.
US09546394B2 Rapid, low-sample-volume cholesterol and triglyceride assays
Reagents, assays, methods, kits, devices, and systems for rapid measurement of cholesterol and cholesterol sub-fractions from a blood sample are provided. Total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, and high density lipoprotein cholesterol can be measured in a single assay using kinetic measurements, under conditions in which cholesterol sub-species are converted to a detectable product at distinct rates. The detectable product is measured at different times after assay initiation. A lipase, cholesterol esterase, cholesterol oxidase and a peroxidase may be used together to produce colored product in amounts directly proportional to the quantity of cholesterol converted. Methods for calculating very-low density lipoprotein cholesterol levels by further including triglyceride measurements are disclosed. Assays may be performed in a single reaction mixture, allowing more accurate and precise cholesterol determinations, including ratios of cholesterol sub-fractions to total cholesterol, at less expense, than would be expected by performing several different assays in different reaction mixtures.
US09546393B2 Mass spectrometry quantitation of P450 isoforms in hepatocytes
A method for screening a drug for cytochrome P450 (CYP) induction is provided and can include incubating the drug with a microsome-containing biological sample and then quantitating at least one cytochrome P450 isoform. The isoforms can be selected from 2B6, 3A4, 1A2, and 3A5 isoforms. In some embodiments, the method uses liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MSMS). A quantitated value can be compared to a threshold value and the drug can be determined to exhibit an acceptable CYP induction potential when the quantitated value does not exceed the threshold value. Isolated peptides are also provided.
US09546389B2 Methods and systems for nucleic acid amplification
The present disclosure provides methods and systems for amplifying nucleic acid samples. In some aspects, the methods and systems described provided can be useful in conducting multiple nucleic acid amplification reactions in parallel. In some embodiments, methods and systems provided herein can be useful in conducting reverse transcription and DNA amplification in parallel. Moreover, in some aspects, the methods and systems described herein can be useful in analysis of nucleic acid samples. In some embodiments, methods and systems provided herein can be useful for conducting multiple series of primer extension reactions, which can aid in analysis of a nucleic acid sample.
US09546386B2 Glucose and xylose co-fermenting microorganism that expresses active glucoamylase
Provided are microorganisms, e.g., the Saccharomyces yeast, that have been made able to co-ferment xylose sugar-obtained from hydrolyzing plant cellulosic biomass form trees, grasses, straws, etc., with glucose that can be obtained from hydrolyzing either edible feedstocks such as starch, cane sugar, etc. or from hydrolyzing cellulose from various types of non-edible cellulosic biomass. The microorganisms are also capable of expressing an amylase, e.g., glucoamylase, having nonnegligible enzymatic activity, capable of producing glucose from oligo- or polysaccharides obtained by treating soluble starch with α-amylase. In some embodiments, nucleotidic material is provided comprising genes actively expressing xylose reductase, xylitol dehydrogenase and xylulokinase as well as an active gene expressing glucoamylase. Vectors and other compositions of matter are provided as.
US09546385B2 Genetically modified clostridium thermocellum engineered to ferment xylose
One aspect of the invention relates to industrial bioconversion of the xylose portion of biomass materials into fuels and chemicals. Another aspect of the invention relates to industrial bioconversion of the xylan portion of biomass materials into fuels and chemicals. In one embodiment, the invention is directed to the bacterium Clostridium thermocellum, a highly cellulolytic organism that has much potential as a biocatalyst in a consolidated bioprocess configuration. In some embodiments, the invention is a genetic modification that confers the ability to ferment xylose to C. thermocellum and the strains created with this modification. In some embodiments, the genetic modification is composed of two genes contained in an operon from T. saccharolyticum. The genes express proteins with xylose isomerase (XI) and xylulokinase activites (XK). In other embodiments, the invention relates to a recombinant Clostridium thermocellum host cell capable of fermenting xylan.
US09546384B2 Methods and compositions for the targeted modification of a mouse genome
Compositions and methods are provided for modifying a genomic locus of interest in a eukaryotic cell, a mammalian cell, a human cell or a non-human mammalian cell using a large targeting vector (LTVEC) comprising various endogenous or exogenous nucleic acid sequences as described herein. Further methods combine the use of the LTVEC with a CRISPR/Cas system. Compositions and methods for generating a genetically modified non-human animal comprising one or more targeted genetic modifications in their germline are also provided.
US09546380B2 MGMT-based method for obtaining high yields of recombinant protein expression
The present invention relates to a novel enhancer of protein production in host cells. It discloses a vector for expressing recombinant proteins in these cells, comprising a nucleotide sequence encoding a) a secretion peptidic signal, b) a 6-methylguanine-DNA-methyltransferase enzyme (MGMT, EC 2.1.1.63), a mutant or a catalytic domain thereof, and c) a recombinant protein. Said MGMT enzyme is preferably the so-called SNAP protein.
US09546379B2 Compositions and methods for treating type 1 and type 2 diabetes and related disorders
The invention features compositions comprising in vitro generated beta cells capable of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, methods of inducing beta cell maturation from embryonic or induced pluripotent stem cell-derived beta-like cells, and methods of using in vitro generated beta cells for the treatment of type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, or a related disorder.
US09546372B2 Regulatory elements and uses thereof
The present application provides novel regulatory elements including promoter sequences from marine microorganisms. The application further discloses DNA constructs containing these novel regulatory elements; transgenic cells, transgenic non-human organisms, and progeny containing these novel regulatory elements. Methods of modifying, producing, and using the regulatory elements are also disclosed. The regulatory elements disclosed herein are particularly suited for use in Nannochloropsis and other microalgae.
US09546371B2 Chimeric polynucleotides and polypeptides enabling secretion of a polypeptide of interest in association with exosomes and use thereof for the production of immunogenic compositions
The present invention concerns a chimeric polypeptide comprising several polypeptide domains, which is capable of being secreted in association with membrane vesicles and in particular exosomes.The present invention also concerns a polypeptide constituted by one of said domains for the secretion of a peptide or polypeptide of interest in association with membrane vesicles and in particular exosomes.The invention also concerns the use of polypeptides of the invention and of polynucleotides coding for said polypeptides for the production of immunogenic compositions based on exosomes or based on DNA or for screening protein interactions.The present invention also concerns exploiting the properties of exosomes comprising a polypeptide of the invention and of immunogenic compositions of the invention for the prophylaxis and/or treatment of an infection by a pathogenic agent, a pathogenic organism, a tumour antigen or a cytoplasmic antigen, in particular to elicit or promote, in vivo, in a host, in particular in a human or non-human mammal or a bird, a humoral and/or cellular response against a virus, bacterium, parasite or tumour.
US09546366B2 Replication factor C-40 (RFC40/RFC2) as a prognostic marker and target in estrogen positive and negative and triple negative breast cancer
The present disclosure relates generally to cancer and particularly to breast cancer including estrogen sensitive, estrogen resistant and triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), and to methods of diagnosis and prognosis thereof and therapeutic intervention involving replication factor C 40 (RFC40). Methods and assays for evaluating breast cancer are provided. The disclosure also relates to inhibition or modulation of RFC40 in treatment or alleviation of cancer, including breast cancer. RFC40 inhibitors, including siRNAs, miRNAs, and shRNAs, which specifically affect cancer cells, particularly breast cancer cells, are provided.
US09546365B2 MicroRNA-198 as a tumor suppressor in ovarian cancer
A novel network of tumorigenic prognostic factors is identified that plays a critical role in advanced pancreatic cancer (PC) pathogenesis. This interactome is interconnected through a central tumor suppressive microRNA, miR-198, which is able to both directly and indirectly modulate expression of the various members of this network to alter the molecular makeup of pancreatic tumors, with important clinical implications. When this tumor signature network is intact, miR-198 expression is reduced and patient survival is dismal; patients with higher miR-198 present an altered tumor signature network, better prognosis and increased survival. Further, according to the present disclosure, MiR-198 replacement reverses tumorigenicity in vitro and in vivo. As such, an embodiment of the disclosure is a method of treating cancer in an individual, comprising the step of increasing the level of active microRNA-198 molecules in the pancreatic cancer tumor cells of the individual by an amount sufficient to cause an improvement in the pancreatic cancer in the individual.
US09546362B2 Genes and proteins for alkanoyl-CoA synthesis
Polypeptides having alkanoyl-CoA activity have been identified and characterized, as have nucleic acids encoding these polypeptides. Expression or over-expression of the nucleic acids alters levels of cannabinoid compounds in organisms. The polypeptides may be used in vivo or in vitro to produce cannabinoid compounds.
US09546361B2 Thermally stable enzymes, compositions thereof and methods of using same
Described herein are proteins having lyase activity and nucleic acid sequences which code therefor; along with methods of expressing, isolating, purifying, and using same.
US09546360B2 Gain-of-function ADAMTS13 variants resistant to auto antibody inhibition and methods of use thereof
Compositions and methods for the treatment of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura are disclosed.
US09546359B2 Method for engineering proteases and protein kinases
Provided are methods for protein engineering, such as engineering proteases or kinases. The methods may utilize yeast display and/or ER sequestration of proteins or substrates. In some aspects, TEV proteases with altered substrate specificity, potency, and/or efficiency are provided.
US09546356B2 Recombinant yeast and substance production method using the same
Substance productivity is improved by introducing a metabolic pathway for synthesis of acetyl-CoA or acetic acid from glucose-6-phosphate into yeast. Acetic acid productivity, acetyl-CoA productivity, and productivity of a substance made from acetyl-CoA-derived are improved by attenuating genes involved in the glycolytic system of yeast and introducing a phosphoketolase gene into the yeast.
US09546355B2 Conditional replicating cytomegalovirus as a vaccine for CMV
The present invention relates to methods of inducing an immune response to cytomegalovirus (CMV) using a genetically modified CMV that is conditionally replication defective. The methods of the invention can be used to treat and/or prevent primary CMV infection, infection due to reactivation of a latent CMV and a super-infection of a different strain of CMV that had been previously encountered. The present invention also relates to a replication defective CMV which has been recombinantly altered to allow for external control of viral replication. Compositions comprising the replication defective CMV are also encompassed by the present invention.
US09546353B2 Optimized and defined method for isolation and preservation of precursor cells from human umbilical cord
The present invention refers to an optimized and defined method for isolation and preservation of precursor cells from human umbilical cord. Besides being reproducible and 100% reliable, in terms of the number of samples processed, the method results in a high and defined number of precursor cells, being the majority obtained after a single adhesion and expansion/multiplication phase ex vivo (thus granting cell phenotype), in a shorter time frame than what was previously described in the state-of-the-art. With this method, it is possible to obtain, in 9 days, after direct freezing of a cell fraction, and after one expansion/multiplication phase ex vivo (end of P0) of the majority of the cells, about 8.6(±0.1)×105 cells/gram of processed umbilical cord. In turn, the characteristics of the cells allow, for example, after 35 days, obtaining an average of 7.7×1015 cells, with precursor phenotype, from 100% of processed umbilical cord samples. The method, because it is simple, robust and 100% reliable, can be performed under good manufacturing practices (GMP) in laboratories dedicated to cell therapy in humans. Furthermore, the method has applications in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and biotechnology areas.
US09546352B2 Coated dehydrated microorganisms with enhanced stability and viability
The present invention relates to coated dehydrated microorganisms comprising a dehydrated microorganism surrounded by at least one coating, said coating comprising by dry weight at least 25% of hygroscopic salt(s) and wherein the pH of the coating is compatible with viability of the coated dehydrated microorganism. The coating can be partially crystalline, the salt(s) in the coating having preferably a crystallinity degree of up to 60% once applied onto the dehydrated microorganism. The present invention also relates to liquid coating compositions, methods for coating and protecting a dehydrated microorganism. Finally, the present invention relates to a method for the preparation of food products, feed products, consumer healthcare products or agri-products as well as to a food product, feed product, a consumer healthcare product or an agri-product containing such coated dehydrated microorganisms.
US09546351B2 Method and system for processing biomass
A method and system for processing biomass. The method uses an apparatus with a housing, a rotor inside of the housing, and a plurality of protrusions extending from the rotor. The method includes placing the biomass in a fluid medium, inducing cavitation within the fluid to partially separate the biomass, sending the biomass and fluid into the housing, rotating the rotor to further separate the biomass, heating the biomass and fluid, and maintaining the acidity of the fluid and biomass at a pH of between approximately 2 to 6. The system includes apparatus each having a housing and a rotor within the housing. One apparatus has abutting, alternating height protrusions extending from the rotor. Another apparatus has grooves formed in the rotor and an end wall of the housing. Another apparatus has two rows of protrusions extending from the rotor that are spaced apart no less than approximately 6 millimeters.
US09546349B2 Supports for cell culture and cell sheet detachment and methods for cell sheet detachment
The invention creates a support for cell culture and cell sheet detachment which has a substrate, whose surface is coated with a conjugate having a disulfide bond-containing amino acid as a spacer and a biopolymer enhancing cell attachment, migration or differentation. Unexpectedly, after being seeded on the support, the cells grow to form one or more layers of cell sheets and the cell sheets can be easily detached from the support by adding a reductant to cleave the disulfide bond. Accordingly, the invention provides a simple and non-toxic method for detachment of cell sheets.
US09546348B2 Conical brewing device with nesting supporting member
Brewing assemblies and kits are generally disclosed herein. In particular, a brewing assembly comprising an upper member having a generally conical lower portion and a base member having a funnel shaped portion wherein the lower portion of the upper member is arranged to nest with the funnel shaped portion of the base member is disclosed. The present disclosure also describes brewing kits comprising a fermenter, a lid arranged to close a top opening of the fermenter, a tap connectable to a tap opening of the fermenter, and a base member having a substantially continuous and generally conical portion arranged to mate with a generally conical lower portion of the fermenter. Other embodiments are disclosed.
US09546346B2 Use of polyethylene glycol to control the spray pattern of sprayable liquid abrasive cleansers
Liquid abrasive cleanser compositions sprayable through conventional manual trigger sprayers comprise a polyalkylene glycol, a nonionic surfactant, a pH adjusting agent, an abrasive, and water, wherein sprayability is made possible by the addition of the polyalkylene glycol. The compositions that are sprayable and acceptable as hard surface cleaners comprise polyethylene glycol as the polyalkylene glycol. The addition of polyethylene glycol having molecular weight of from about 4,000 to about 1,000,000 dramatically increases the sprayer output volume of liquid abrasive compositions having greater than or equal to 10 wt. % calcium carbonate. Addition of polyethylene glycol of molecular weight of from about 4,000 to about 100,000 converts otherwise non-sprayable liquid abrasive compositions into reliably sprayable compositions. Addition of PEG having molecular weight from about 4,000 to about 100,000 also provides a method for controlling the spray pattern of sprayable liquid abrasive compositions, in particular a method for optimizing the diameter of a conical spray pattern produced from a manual trigger sprayer having a conical spray nozzle.
US09546345B2 Synergistic stain removal through novel chelator combination
The invention relates to a concentrated detergent composition comprising an alkali metal carbonate, methylglycinediacetic acid, glutamic acid N,N-diacetic acid, and alkali metal tripolyphosphate. The composition is particularly suited to remove tea and coffee soil in warewashing applications.
US09546340B2 Ultra low phosphorus lubricant compositions
A low-phosphorus lubricating composition has less than 600 ppm phosphorus, comprising at least 85 weight % of a lubricating base blend, and an additive comprising the following, as weight % of the total composition: (1) an organomolybdenum compound at an amount which provides about 0.1-800 ppm Mo; (2) a hindered phenol at about 0.1-2%; and (3) a dithiocarbamate at about 0.1-2%; with a first proviso that where the dithiocarbamate does not comprise a metal dithiocarbamate, the additive additionally comprises: (4) an alkylated diphenylamine at about 0.1-2%, and with a second proviso that where the organomolybdenum compound comprises molybdenum dithiocarbamate, it is considered a metal dithiocarbamate for purposes of the first proviso, but is considered an organomolybdenum compound for the purposes of calculation of the amount present in the total composition.
US09546338B2 Redox couple-based mitigation of fluid-flow-driven electrochemical surface degradation
The present disclosure relates to methods, systems, hydraulic fluids and additives for reducing the rate of surface current degradation for components in a hydraulic system, wherein the hydraulic system is exposed to phosphate-ester-based hydraulic fluid.
US09546337B2 Lubricant composition
The present invention provides a lubricating oil composition comprising a lubricating base oil, and at least one ester additive selected from a first ester that is a fatty acid 3,4-epoxycyclohexyl alkyl ester and a second ester that is a 3,4-epoxycyclohexyl carboxylic acid alkyl ester, wherein a content of the ester additive is 0.01 to 5.0% by mass based on the total mass of the lubricating oil composition.
US09546336B2 Compositions comprising estolide compounds and methods of making and using the same
Provided herein are compositions comprising at least one estolide compound of formula: in which n is an integer equal to or greater than 0; m is an integer equal to or greater than 1; R1, independently for each occurrence, is selected from optionally substituted alkyl that is saturated or unsaturated, and branched or unbranched; R2 is selected from hydrogen and optionally substituted alkyl that is saturated or unsaturated, and branched or unbranched; and R3 and R4, independently for each occurrence, are selected from optionally substituted alkyl that is saturated or unsaturated, and branched or unbranched. Also provided are uses of the compositions described herein.
US09546333B2 Fatty acid ester based firelighter
A solid firelighter is provided, which comprises a carboxylic acid and/or an alkyl ester derivative thereof and a curable resin. The firelighter specifically comprise methyl, ethyl, propyl, or buthanoyl esters of a C6-C10 carboxylic acid or mixtures thereof in an amount of at least 20% by weight. Moreover, a method of manufacturing said firelighter is provided, as well as compositions for use in the manufacture of said firelighter.
US09546330B2 Integrated ebullated-bed process for whole crude oil upgrading
A system and process for upgrading a whole crude oil feed in an integrated ebullated-bed and hydrotreater is provided in which the whole crude oil is flashed into a flashed straight run distillates fraction and an atmospheric residue fraction. The atmospheric residue fraction is hydroprocessed in an ebullated-bed reaction zone, while the flashed straight run distillates fraction and the products fraction produced from the ebullated-bed reaction zone are hydrotreated in a fixed-bed reaction zone. Distillates from the hydrotreater and the unconverted residue fraction from the ebullated-bed reaction zone can be combined to produce an upgraded synthetic crude oil.
US09546329B2 Process for the production of middle distillates in which the feedstock originating from the fischer-tropsch process and the hydrogen stream contain a limited oxygen content
A process for the production of middle distillates from a paraffinic feedstock produced by Fischer-Tropsch synthesis comprising a limited content of molecules containing at least one oxygen atom. In the process, the feedstock is subjected to at least one hydrocracking/hydroisomerization stage in the presence of a hydrogen stream also containing a limited atomic oxygen content.
US09546326B2 Fluid emulsion purification processes using microporous materials having filtration and adsorption properties
The present invention is directed to methods of separating a fluid emulsion stream into a hydrocarbon stream and an aqueous stream, by contacting the stream with a microporous membrane to yield a hydrocarbon product stream and an aqueous product stream. The membrane comprises a substantially hydrophobic, polymeric matrix, and substantially hydrophilic, finely divided, particulate, substantially water-insoluble filler distributed throughout the matrix. The polymeric matrix has a mean pore size less than 1.0 micron, and the purities of the product streams are independent of the flux rate of the aqueous product stream and the pore size of the membrane.
US09546323B2 Process for integration of paraffinic froth treatment hub and a bitumen ore mining and extraction facility
A process for regionalization of mining bitumen-containing oil sands ore for extraction and conversion to produce dry bitumen comprises operating multiple separate oil sands ore mining and extraction facilities or in situ thermal recovery facilities, to produce separate bitumen froth streams; operating a regional paraffinic froth treatment (PFT) hub for receiving a portion of each of the separate bitumen froth streams and treating the bitumen froth streams to produce the dry bitumen; optionally providing a portion of the dry bitumen stream to the bitumen upgrading facility and another portion of the dry bitumen stream to a bitumen market pipeline or remote upgrading facility; and optionally comprising regionalization of water distribution where by-product waters are recovered from the PFT hub and the upgrading facilities and distributed to the mining and extraction facilities for use as extraction processing water to produce the bitumen froth streams.
US09546320B2 Quantum dot film applied to backlight module
The invention relates to the optical films, in particular to a quantum dot film applied to a backlight module. The quantum dot film aims to solve the problem that the color saturation of a liquid crystal displayer is poor. The novel quantum dot film comprises a quantum dot layer, and an upper waterproof layer and a lower waterproof layer are arranged on the upper surface of the quantum dot layer and the lower surface of the quantum dot layer respectively. The quantum dot layer comprises, by weight, 100 parts of adhesives, 5-20 parts of silica gel particles, 1-20 parts of diffusion particles and 0.1-20 parts of quantum dots. The surface of the silica gel particles is provided with a micropore structure. The quantum dots are adsorbed in micropores of the silica gel particles or dispersed in the adhesives. The silica gel particles and the diffusion particles are dispersed in the adhesives. The quantum dot film is applied to the backlight module and has the advantages of improving the color gamut and illuminance.
US09546316B2 Densifying carbon dioxide with a dispersion of carbon dioxide-philic water capsules
This invention generally relates to the field of oil recovery from reservoirs. More specifically, it relates to the recovery of oil from sandstone and carbonate reservoirs using a process for preparing a dispersion of capsules for use downhole including the steps of providing capsules containing a dense liquid, each capsule having a capsule wall defining an inner area, the capsule wall having an outer side. The capsules are functionalized by adding a carbon dioxide-philic compound to the outer side of the capsule wall. A dispersion is then prepared by adding the functionalized capsules to supercritical carbon dioxide such that a stable dispersion of capsules in supercritical carbon dioxide is achieved.
US09546315B2 Compositions, methods, apparatus, and systems for incorporating bio-derived materials in drilling and hydraulic fracturing
The present invention provides compositions, methods, apparatus, and systems to minimize environmental impact, water use, and overall cost of drilling and hydraulic fracturing for crude oil and natural gas. Some variations of the invention provide a fracturing-fluid additive composition comprising a water-soluble portion of a biomass-pyrolysis liquid. In some embodiments, the fracturing-fluid additive composition is substantially biodegradable and is not toxic. Some variations provide improved proppants for oil or gas well fracturing. Other variations of this invention relate to drilling-fluid additive compositions, and methods of using these compositions. This invention can significantly improve the environmental, economic, and social sustainability associated with drilling and fracturing for production of oil and gas.