| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09554972B2 |
Hair treatment composition
A hair treatment composition is in the form of an emulsion, preferably of a micro emulsion, which improves hair quality in terms of softness, shine and touch feeling. Emulsion type of hair treatment composition is characterized in that it includes in a cosmetically acceptable aqueous medium a—one or more surfactants as emulsifier, b—one or more natural and/or mineral oil, c—one or more silicone oil, and d—at least one polyethyleneglycol with a molecular weight of more than 10,000. |
| US09554969B2 |
Home medication manager
A portable self medication management system and method of provided. For example, the system may include a removable tote and docking station. The removable tote including a plurality of receptacles, communicating section for transferring data to and from a docking station and a power reception station for receiving power from the docking station. The docking station including a scanner, a display screen, a controller, a storage device, communicating sections for transmitting data to the removable tote and other external devices and a power transmitting section for transferring power to the removable tote. |
| US09554959B2 |
Anterior pelvic support device for a surgery patient
The improved positioning device, for use in hip, pelvis or bariatric surgery, securely and safely supports a morbidly obese patient lying in the lateral decubitus position at one side of an operating table so the surgeon may stand close to the anterior side of the patient. The support device includes a double-ended bracket having a pair of oppositely positioned padded end portions secured to an angular bracket post adapted to securely mount to an operating table via a question mark-shaped bracket. The angular bracket arm vertically adjusts to support the patient on one side, with the padded end portions applied to bony prominences such as the symphysis pubis and the lower side anterior superior iliac spine. The support device is used in combination with a posterior pelvic support plate, and a pair of anterior-posterior chest support plates to retain the patient in a secure and stable manner during surgery. |
| US09554958B2 |
System and method for detection of infant presence
A system and method for controlling the operation of an infant care device based upon whether the infant care device is occupied or unoccupied. One or more sensors are positioned within the infant care device to determine whether the infant care device is occupied or unoccupied. A controller receives the indication of the occupied status of the infant care device and operates the infant care device in a selected mode of operation. Upon a change in the occupied status of the infant care device, the controller adjusts various operating parameters and alarm parameters. The controller continuously monitors the occupied status of the infant care device and controls the operation of the infant care device accordingly. |
| US09554957B2 |
Bed chair
A bed chair apparatus has a user support surface which includes a back section 1, a seat section 14, a lower leg section 15 and a foot section 16 that are configured to articulate relative to each other. The support surface is configurable in a bed configuration in which the support surface is substantially flat and in a chair configuration in which the foot section 16 is disposed beneath the seat section 14. Some embodiments of the apparatus require only a single actuator 30. |
| US09554954B2 |
Convertible wheelchair
The present invention relates to a convertible wheelchair with a removable wheel assembly that can be replaced by a stationary stand for use at the beach and other loose gravel and sand locations. |
| US09554950B2 |
Transfer layer for absorbent article
A film particularly suited for use as a transfer layer in an absorbent article has a plurality of capillaries and a plurality of drains, said capillaries comprising side walls depending from a female side of the film and terminating in an aperture on a male side of the film; said drains comprising side walls that depending from the female side of the film and terminating in an aperture on the male side of the film, wherein the drains are disposed at an obtuse angle relative to a base plane of the film. |
| US09554949B2 |
Apertured formed film with a pattern of apertures and a plurality of light trap micro-pits
An apertured film with a reduced gloss through the use of light trap micro-pits uniformly distributed on the lands of the film in a random pattern and a method of making the same. |
| US09554947B2 |
Disposable absorbent article containing an unapertured skinless elastomeric layer
The present invention relates to a disposable absorbent article comprising a chassis having a front waist region, a back waist region, and a crotch region between the front and back waist regions, said chassis having two opposing longitudinal edges and two perpendicularly placed end edges, said chassis further comprising: a. a liquid permeable topsheet spanning at least the crotch region; b. a backsheet spanning at least the crotch region; c. an absorbent core disposed between said topsheet and backsheet; and d. a elastic member disposed along at least one opposing longitudinal edge in either the front waist or back waist region of said chassis wherein said member comprises an unapertured, skinless elastomeric layer wherein said layer exhibits an Energy Recovery Value of at least about 0.77. |
| US09554946B2 |
Wound protecting and fixing device
A wound protecting and fixing device includes at least a protecting and fixing layer (1) with an opening. The opening (11) is defined in the protecting and fixing layer and configured to extend between an upper plane and a lower plane of the protecting and fixing layer along a longitudinal direction, and to surround a wound therein so that the protecting and fixing layer (1) with the opening limits an increase of tension at the wound and a movement-incurred wrinkle of skin at the wound. The protecting and fixing layer (1) with the opening includes a flexible protecting and fixing layer (1a) with an opening and a rigid protecting and fixing layer (1b) with an opening. The device can prevent the wound from being ripped and ruptured, and prevent damages caused by movement-incurred wrinkles of the skin at the wound and relative displacement frictions. |
| US09554944B2 |
Medical protruded pads or dressings for wound care including use with orthopedic and prosthetic devices
Methods and devices for dressing a wound are disclosed. One such dressing includes a layer of spaced protrusions, each protrusion shaped to receive medication for treating a wound and a plurality of holes defined in the layer, the holes configured to allow evaporation of exudate from the wound. Another such dressing includes multiple layers, each layer sandwiched over the next and including spaced protrusions, with alternate layers comprising absorptive materials. The alternate layers of absorptive materials can communicate via holes in the non-absorptive layers to allow exudate to travel from between the absorptive layers and away from the wound. |
| US09554943B2 |
Ophthalmological device
An ophthalmic instrument for the application of laser radiation in a patient's eye, particularly for the examination and/or surgical laser treatment of the cornea and the lens of the eye, includes a femtosecond laser, an objective and optical assemblies. The optical assemblies are arranged in front of the objective selectively vary the focus position in the coordinate direction X,Y and Z either within the region of the cornea or within the region of the lens of the eye. The objective or at least one lens group is movable relative to the eye. The variation of the position of the lens group or objective shifts the focus position from the cornea to the lens of the eye and vice versa. |
| US09554941B2 |
Ocular implant delivery systems and methods
Described herein are delivery devices and methods of using the devices for delivering an ocular implant into a suprachoroidal space without use of a goniolens. The delivery device includes a handle including a channel extending from a proximal end of the handle to a distal end of the handle, an applier coupled to the handle, the applier including a blunt distal tip and an elongate, flexible wire insertable through a fluid channel of an ocular implant, and a fiber optic image bundle reversibly inserted through the channel such that the fiber optic image bundle extends to a region proximal to the blunt distal tip of the applier. |
| US09554939B1 |
Magnetic retinal patch
A retinal treatment apparatus for treatment of a detached retina of an eye is provided. The treatment apparatus includes a removable elastomeric patch formed of a biocompatible material containing ferromagnetic particles encapsulated within the elastomeric patch and a permanent rare-earth magnet secured adjacent an exterior surface of the eye. The removable elastomeric patch is inserted into the eye and positioned adjacent the detached retina, and wherein the permanent rare-earth magnet is secured to the exterior surface of the eye substantially adjacent to the removable elastomeric patch to maintain the elastomeric patch against the retina, thereby maintaining the retina against an underlying support tissue of the retina. |
| US09554937B2 |
Penile prosthetic pump having an inlet valve with a lockout flange
A pump includes a pump bulb connected to a pump body. An exhaust valve assembly is disposed in the pump body within an exit flow path communicating between the pump bulb and the cylinder. An inlet valve is rotatably disposed in the pump body within an inlet flow path communicating between the reservoir and the pump bulb. The inlet valve includes a spherical part retained in a seat formed by the pump body, an inlet flange connected to and extending radially away from the spherical part, and a lockout flange connected to and extending radially away from the spherical part. A channel is formed through a portion of the spherical part of the inlet valve. The channel includes an outlet hole that is blocked from the inlet flow path by the seat formed in the pump body and opened to the inlet flow path by rotation of the inlet valve. |
| US09554934B2 |
Elastic brace assembly and methods of use
Example embodiments of the brace assembly utilize an elastic cross strap attached to mounting facilities about a joint to provide progressive resistance to the extension, flexion or other movement of body parts about the joint. In some embodiments for a knee joint, the brace assembly provides a progressive resisting force to resist hyperextension of the knee. Some embodiments of the assembly may be able to accommodate different joints, different size wearer's of the assembly and different tension settings such as for athletes during competition. Some embodiments of the brace assembly may be used bilaterally and can be made without metal bracing to comply with the requirements of some sports. Some embodiments of the mounting facilities may have through holes. |
| US09554933B2 |
Strap tightener assembly for an orthopedic device
A strap tightener assembly has a base, a tightening device mounted on the base and movable relative thereto, and a strap assembly coupled to the tightening device. The tightening device provides incremental movement of the strap assembly relative to the base at a plurality of predefined settings. A cover extends over the strap assembly and connects to the base so that the base and the cover form a channel permitting movement of the strap assembly therethrough. The cover defines an elongate slot extending along a portion of a length of the cover, and the strap assembly has an indicator identifying the relative location of the strap assembly to the cover. A strap is securable to the strap assembly. |
| US09554929B2 |
Vascular prosthetic delivery device and method of use
Methods for delivering a vascular prosthesis to a treatment site of a subject include advancing the vascular prosthesis, rotating a proximal handle in a first direction about a handle body, shifting the position of a first locking component securing the proximal handle to the push rod from a first position to a second position, rotating the proximal handle in a second direction, releasing the proximal end of the prosthesis from the apex delivery device, shifting the second locking component to disengage the push rod from the handle body; and withdrawing the push rod and the guidewire catheter from within the prosthesis, thereby delivering the vascular prosthesis to the treatment site. |
| US09554928B2 |
Methods for uniform crimping and deployment of a polymer scaffold
A medical device-includes a scaffold crimped to a catheter having an expansion balloon. The scaffold is crimped to the balloon by a process that includes one or more balloon pressurization steps. The balloon pressurization steps are selected to enhance scaffold retention to the balloon while retaining, at least partially, the original balloon folds as the balloon is pressurized and de-pressurized within a crimper head. By at least partially retaining the original balloon folds, a uniformity of scaffold expansion by the balloon is improved. |
| US09554925B2 |
Biodegradable polymeric stents
Methods and systems of fabricating a polymeric stent are disclosed herein. |
| US09554922B2 |
Hybrid terrain-adaptive lower-extremity systems
Hybrid terrain-adaptive lower-extremity apparatus and methods that perform in a variety of different situations by detecting the terrain that is being traversed, and adapting to the detected terrain. In some embodiments, the ability to control the apparatus for each of these situations builds upon five basic capabilities: (1) determining the activity being performed; (2) dynamically controlling the characteristics of the apparatus based on the activity that is being performed; (3) dynamically driving the apparatus based on the activity that is being performed; (4) determining terrain texture irregularities (e.g., how sticky is the terrain, how slippery is the terrain, is the terrain coarse or smooth, does the terrain have any obstructions, such as rocks) and (5) a mechanical design of the apparatus that can respond to the dynamic control and dynamic drive. |
| US09554920B2 |
Bone matrix compositions having nanoscale textured surfaces
Bone matrix compositions having nanoscale textured surfaces and methods for their production are provided. In some embodiments, bone matrix is prepared for implantation and retains nanoscale textured surfaces. In other embodiments, nanostructures are imparted to bone matrix wherein collagen fibrils on the surface of the bone matrix have been compromised, thus imparting a nanoscale textured surface to the bone matrix. Generally, these methods may be applied to mineralized or demineralized bone including partially or surface demineralized bone. |
| US09554916B2 |
Apparatus and method for replacement of a metatarsophalangeal joint with interphalangeal fusion
An apparatus and method for partial replacement of a metatarsophalangeal joint defined by a proximal face of a phalanx and a distal face of a metatarsal. The apparatus and method include a joint surface element and an elongated fusing element. The elongated fusing element has an end configured for tool engagement. The joint surface element has a generally concave surface configured to serve as the proximal face of the phalanx and a socket configured to engage the end of the elongated fusing element. The elongated fusing element fuses an interphalangeal joint when the apparatus is surgically implanted to prevent the deterioration of the interphalangeal joint. |
| US09554914B2 |
Fusion implant
An implant that facilitates the fusion of a first bone part with a second bone part includes an implant body that extends between the first bone part and the second bone part. The implant body includes a first portion that fits within a first receiving aperture in the first bone part, and the implant body includes a second portion that fits within a second receiving aperture in the second bone part. At least one of the first portion and the second portion can be made of bone. Additionally, at least the second portion is formed to have a non-circular cross-sectional shape to inhibit relative motion between the bone parts and the implant body. |
| US09554910B2 |
Patient-specific glenoid guide and implants
A method is disclosed for repairing a defect in an anatomical feature, the defect having a surface that defines a volume. The method includes receiving imaging data obtained using a medical imaging technique. The imaging data represents the anatomical feature. In one example, the method further includes creating a three-dimensional (3D) model of a mold for an implant based on the imaging data. The mold includes a cavity that replicates the volume of the defect. In another example, the method further includes creating a 3D model of an implant based on the imaging data. The implant is configured to fill the volume of the defect. In various implementations, the mold, the implant, and/or a replica of the implant are formed based on the 3D model of the mold or the 3D model of the implant. Guides and implants corresponding to the method are also disclosed. |
| US09554906B2 |
Tissue restraining devices and methods of use
Tissue restraining systems and devices as well as methods of using these devices are disclosed herein. According to aspects illustrated herein, there is provided a tissue restraining device that may include an annuloplasty member having one or more contact points along a portion of the annuloplasty member in a spaced relation to one another. The tissue restraining device may also include a second anchor for placement in a substantially opposing, spaced relation to the annuloplasty member. A restraining matrix may extend from the contact points of the annuloplasty member to the second anchor. |
| US09554905B2 |
Apparatus and method for implanting collapsible/expandable prosthetic heart valves
Apparatus for delivering a prosthetic heart valve into a patient by means that are less invasive than conventional open-chest, open-heart surgery. The prosthetic valve may be collapsed while in a delivery device. When the valve reaches the desired implant site in the patient, the valve can be released from the delivery device, which allows the valve to re-expand to the configuration in which it can function as a heart valve. For example, the delivery device may be constructed to facilitate delivery of the prosthetic valve into the patient via the apex of the patient's heart. |
| US09554903B2 |
Rapid deployment prosthetic heart valve
A heart valve prosthesis that can be quickly and easily implanted during a surgical procedure is provided. The prosthetic valve comprises a support structure that is deployed at a treatment site. The prosthetic valve further comprises a valve member configured to be quickly connected to the support structure. The support structure may take the form of a stent that is expanded at the site of a native valve. If desired, the native leaflets may remain and the stent may be used to hold the native valve open. In this case, the stent may be balloon expandable and configured to resist the powerful recoil force of the native leaflets. The support structure is provided with a coupling means for attachment to the valve member, thereby fixing the position of the valve member in the body. The valve member may be expandable or a non-expandable type. |
| US09554901B2 |
Low gradient prosthetic heart valve
A low pressure gradient prosthetic heart valve for implant in a human. The valve includes a support frame with undulating inflow cusps and outflow commissure posts to which flexible leaflets attach and coapt in a flow area. The commissure posts angle outward in a neutral state to widen the outflow orifice area. Also, the leaflets are designed to fit within the support frame and expand outward in a valve open state without creating a shelf or belly that would restrict flow. |
| US09554900B2 |
Durable high strength polymer composites suitable for implant and articles produced therefrom
Thin, biocompatible, high-strength, composite materials are disclosed that are suitable for use in a valve for regulating blood flow direction. In one aspect, the composite material maintains flexibility in high-cycle flexural applications, making it particularly applicable to high-flex implants such as a prosthetic heart valve leaflet. The composite material includes a porous polymer membrane and an elastomer, wherein the elastomer fills substantially all of the pores of the porous polymer membrane. |
| US09554899B2 |
System and method for cardiac valve repair and replacement
A prosthetic mitral valve comprising an expandable anchor comprising a first anchor, a central portion and a second anchor; wherein the first anchor comprises a first outer frame and a second outer frame, the first outer frame comprising a plurality of first arcs joined together, and the second outer frame comprising a plurality of second arcs joined together, wherein the plurality of first arcs are out of phase relative to the plurality of second arcs when the first anchor is viewed in an end view from the first anchor to the second anchor; and a plurality of replacement leaflets secured to the expandable anchor. |
| US09554896B2 |
Method and apparatus for fine adjustment of a percutaneous valve structure
The invention provides a device for fine adjustment of a prosthetic valve device and a method of adjusting the position of a prosthetic valve after implantation. The adjustment mechanism includes complementary structures on a valve member and device frame that cooperate to provide relative axial and/or angular motion between the valve member and device frame (and thus the native vessel). The adjustment mechanism of the invention may also include a means for selectively maintaining the relative position of the valve member and device frame. The device and method are particularly applicable for use with a modular prosthetic valve device that is assembled in the body lumen. |
| US09554895B2 |
Ear scaffold
A scaffold for reshaping the cartilaginous portion of an ear. The scaffold is formed of shape memory material and in the form of a horseshoe shape, or is formed from a thermoplastic pliable material. |
| US09554888B2 |
Phase separation sprayed scaffold
Systems and methods for producing scaffolds are disclosed. The system includes a polymer solution and a non-solvent, which are sprayed into receiving portions of support elements. After scaffolds are formed on the support elements, the support elements permit elongation of the scaffolds. Composites formed from a plurality of scaffolds are also disclosed. |
| US09554887B2 |
Prosthesis comprising a three-dimensional and openworked knit
The present invention relates to a prosthesis (100) comprising an openworked three-dimensional knit (101) comprising a front face and a rear face, each face being formed with one or more laps of yarns defining pores on said face, the front face being bound to the rear face by connecting yarns defining a spacer, characterized in that the connecting yarns are distributed so that they define an entanglement of yarns crossing each other at the spacer, without obstructing the pores of the front and rear faces. |
| US09554882B2 |
Method of making calcium-fluoride layer formed on an object surface for more wear resistance
A method of making a calcium-fluoride layer formed on an object surface for more wear resistance includes the steps of coating sodium fluoride to a surface of an object having calcium, whereby the calcium fluoride and the calcium are inverted to become a calcium-fluoride layer on the surface of the object after a chemistry reaction; preparing a CO2 laser device having a CO2 laser emitter for emitting CO2 laser; and applying irradiation of the CO2 laser via the CO2 laser emitter to the calcium-fluoride layer for at least five seconds. In light of this, the wear resistance of the calcium-fluoride layer is enhanced for at least 34%, the absorption rate of the fluoride is increased for at least 23%, and the surface of the object has aesthetic and integral appearance. |
| US09554878B2 |
Superstructure and methods for manufacturing the same
A method (30) for manufacturing a dental superstructure or part thereof is provided. The method comprises the steps of (i) making (31) a dental imprint from the mouth of a subject; (ii) mounting (32) an analog in the imprint to obtain a working model; (iii) attaching (33) a screw channel directing device (10, 20), comprising a screw channel part (11, 21) and an implant cooperating part (12, 22), said screw channel part (11, 21) being tiltable in relation to the implant cooperating part (12, 22), to the working model; (iv) tilting (34) the screw channel part (11, 21) in relation to the implant cooperating part (12, 22) into a desired angle; (v) shaping a mold creating a master superstructure or part thereof onto the screw channel directing device (10, 20); (vi) forming (37) a mold based on the master superstructure or part thereof; and (vii) casting (38) or CAD/CAM shaping of the dental superstructure or part thereof. Embodiments of screw channel directing devices are also provided. |
| US09554877B2 |
Dental regenerative device made of porous metal
A regenerative device can include a first side section, a second side section, and a top section extending between and connecting the first side section and the second side section. The top section and the first and second side sections can each be formed from a porous material that retains its structure after implantation in the patient. The regenerative device can be used for ridge augmentation of a maxilla or a mandible. The top section can include an opening configured for receiving an implant. The porous material can be permanently implanted in the mouth and promote bone regeneration or ridge augmentation. One or both of the first and second side sections of the device can include one or more openings or apertures for receiving a fastener to secure the device to the alveolar ridge. |
| US09554876B2 |
Rectangular orthodontic arch wire appliance and manufacturing method of rectangular orthodontic arch wire appliance
A connecting wire is a wire having a circular cross-section and made of shape memory alloy or the like. Individual blocks have a cross-section configured to engage with an orthodontic bracket and have a through hole to insert the connecting wire. Because a torque is applied separately to each of the individual blocks after the connecting wire and individual blocks are formed according to an arch form on a Monson sphere, the torque can be applied keeping a three-dimensional curve such as the Monson sphere. |
| US09554871B2 |
2-wire ultrasonic magnetostrictive driver
A method for controlling a magnetostrictive ultrasonic transducer of the type used in a magnetostrictive ultrasonic dental scaler includes generating a drive signal for a resonant circuit using a full bridge synchronous class D amplifier. The electrical signal output by the resonant circuit drives an excitation coil that generates an electromagnetic field that causes the magnetostrictive ultrasonic transducer to vibrate. A feedback wire is rendered unnecessary by measuring current and voltage outputs of the resonant circuit and quadrature sampling the measured current and voltage outputs at the same sampling rate as used for the generation of the electrical signal by the resonant circuit. A pulse width modulated signal is generated from the quadrature sampled sensed current and voltage that represents a pulse train approximation of a sine wave of the drive signal for, in turn, being applied to the full bridge synchronous class D amplifier to generate the drive signal for the resonant circuit. Changes in the pulse widths of the pulse train change the amplitude of the drive signal. |
| US09554870B2 |
Dentists' preparation instrument
A dentists' preparation instrument (1) comprises a turbine (4) for driving a tool (3) using compressed air, and a rotor (6) that is arranged in a turbine compartment (5), rotates about a longitudinal axis (7), and has blades (11) extending to a face (13) of the rotor (6). The turbine compartment (5) has a discharge port (12) for the compressed air towards a returning air duct (8). Said discharge port (12) is disposed in such a way that both the face (13) of the rotor (6) and parts of the blades (11) sweep past the discharge port (12) as the rotor rotates about the longitudinal axis (7). For deceleration purposes, the rotor (6) has a deceleration contour (9) on the face (13), said deceleration contour being formed by projections (14), and the turbine compartment (5) has a deceleration contour chamber (15) inside which the deceleration contour (9) is accommodated. The discharge port (12) in part also extends across the deceleration contour chamber (15). |
| US09554869B1 |
Bite tray having fiducial markers for head scan registration and method of use
The present invention is directed to a bite tray having fiducial markers for head scan registration and method of use. The bite tray is held by a patient in his teeth while the scan of his head and the fiducial markers is made by x-ray, CT, or MM and the scan is entered into a computer to register the scan to the fiducial markers. Instrument optical markers are placed on a dental instrument and it is observed by a camera and the observation is entered into the computer to register the instrument optical markers to the dental instrument. Patient optical markers are placed on the patient and it is observed by the camera and the observation is entered into the computer to register the patient optical markers to the patient. The tip of the dental instrument is then touched to one of the fiducial markers making the location of the tip and the fiducial marker the same. The computer then registers the scan to the instrument and the patient. The bite tray is then removed from the mouth allowing access by the dentist to the teeth. The camera follows the movement of the instrument optical markers to the patient optical markers to create a display of the instrument and tip on the scan. |
| US09554867B2 |
Light attachment device for electrosurgical pencil and electrosurgical pencil attachments
A light attachment device for removable attachment to an electrosurgical pencil and/or an electrosurgical pencil attachment such as a shroud for an electrosurgical pencil. The light attachment device may be automatically turned on and off in conjunction with the activation and deactivation of the electrosurgical pencil and/or electrosurgical pencil attachment. |
| US09554866B2 |
Apparatus and method for using a remote control system in surgical procedures
A system and method for using a remote control to control an electrosurgical instrument, where the remote control includes at least one momentum sensor. As the surgeon rotates their hand mimicking movements of a handheld electrosurgical instrument, the movements are translated and sent to the remote controlled (RC) electrosurgical instrument. The surgeon uses an augmented reality (AR) vision system to assist the surgeon in viewing the surgical site. Additionally, the surgeon can teach other doctors how to perform the surgery by sending haptic feedback to slave controllers. Also, the surgeon can transfer control back and forth between the master and slave controller to allow a learning surgeon to perform the surgery, but still allow the surgeon to gain control of the surgery whenever needed. Also, the surgeon could be located at a remote location and perform the surgery with the assistance of the AR vision system. |
| US09554865B2 |
Steady hand micromanipulation robot
A cooperative-control robot includes a base component, a mobile platform arranged proximate the base component, a translation assembly operatively connected to the base component and the mobile platform and configured to move the mobile platform with translational degrees of freedom substantially without rotation with respect to said the component, a tool assembly connected to the mobile platform, and a control system configured to communicate with the translation assembly to control motion of the mobile platform in response to forces by a user applied to at least a portion of the cooperative-control robot. The translation assembly includes at least three independently operable actuator arms, each connected to a separate position of the mobile platform. A robotic system includes two or more the cooperative-control robots. |
| US09554863B2 |
Hip replacement in computer-assisted surgery
A system for calculating a position and orientation of an acetabular cup in computer-assisted surgery comprises a first trackable reference secured to a pelvis, with a frame of reference being associated with the first trackable reference. A device is positionable between a femoral neck and the acetabulum of the pelvis in a known relation, the device having a second trackable reference. Sensors track the trackable references for position and orientation. A position/orientation calculator calculates a position and orientation of the frame of reference and of the device and for determining an orientation of the neck axis with respect to the frame of reference from the known relation at a desired position of the femur. An implant position/orientation calculator provides cup implanting information with respect to the orientation of said neck axis as a function of the tracking for position and orientation of at least the first trackable reference. |
| US09554862B2 |
Morphologically curved sagittal wall of a tibial implant
Disclosed herein are methods of designing and fabricating prosthetic implants having a sagittal wall in which at least a portion thereof traverses a non-linear path. A method of fabricating such a prosthetic implant may include generating a virtual bone model based on image information obtained from at least one bone, determining a proposed height of the prosthetic implant at a first location on the virtual bone model, determining a proposed resection depth into the at least one bone at the first location based at least in part on the proposed height of the prosthetic implant, and determining a curved resection path across a portion of the virtual bone model. The curved resection path may intersect the first location and the prosthetic implant may have a curved sagittal wall corresponding to the curved resection path. |
| US09554861B2 |
Medical instrument holding apparatus
A medical instrument holding apparatus includes a shaft slidably engaged into a housing and movable into and out of the housing, the housing includes a guiding member engaged with the shaft for guiding and limiting the shaft to slide relative to the housing only and for preventing the shaft from being rotated relative to the housing, a locking device is engaged onto the shaft and includes a positioning member for engaging with an anchoring member of the shaft and for locking the shaft and the housing together, and one or more fasteners are engaged with the housing and the locking device for securing the shaft and the housing together with the locking device. |
| US09554856B2 |
Low profile apparatus and method for phototherapy
Disclosed herein are optical assemblies having thin, low profile shapes. These optical assemblies may be used with fiber coupled lasers and other light sources, including high power sources, to irradiate tissue at a wavelength suitable for inducing ablation or coagulation to a target depth, denaturation, thermal modification of a tissue, and/or preferential injury to a target tissue structure. Example optical assemblies can produce substantially uniform illumination patterns that are useful for treating superficial tissue, including the internal or luminal (e.g., esophageal) tissue. Some examples may have capability for cooling superficial tissue or skin, such as a detachable, reusable heat sink for active cooling without consumables, fluid pumps, or other cooling equipment. |
| US09554855B2 |
Tissue ablation system with energy distribution
A microwave ablation system includes an energy source adapted to generate microwave energy and a power splitting device having an input adapted to connect to the energy source and a plurality of outputs. The plurality of outputs are configured to be coupled to a corresponding plurality of energy delivery devices. The power splitting device is configured to selectively divide energy provided from the energy source between the plurality of energy devices. |
| US09554853B2 |
Radio-frequency generator for powering an ablation device
An apparatus and method for use in performing ablation of organs and other tissues includes a radio frequency generator which provides a radio frequency signal to ablation electrodes. The power level of the radio frequency signal is determined based on the subject area of ablation. The radio frequency signal is coupled with the ablation electrodes through a transformation circuit. The transformation circuit includes a high impedance transformation circuit and a low impedance transformation circuit. The high or low impedance transformation circuit is selected based on the impedance of the ablation electrodes in contact with the subject tissue. Vacuum level, impedance level, resistance level, and time are measured during ablation. If these parameters exceed determinable limits the ablation procedure is terminated. |
| US09554846B2 |
Surgical instrument with jaw member
A surgical instrument comprises a shaft, end effector and movable cutting member. The movable cutting member may comprise a first band comprising a first band slot having a distal portion and a proximal portion. A width of the first band slot at the distal portion may be larger than a width of the first band slot at the proximal portion. The movable cutting member may comprise a second band comprising a second band slot having a distal portion and a proximal portion. A width of the second band slot at the proximal portion may be larger than a width of the second band slot at the distal portion. The movable cutting member may comprise a pin positioned within the first band slot and the second band slot. The pin may comprise a middle portion having a middle portion diameter and at least one outer portion having an outer portion diameter. |
| US09554841B2 |
Dual durometer insulating boot for electrosurgical forceps
An electrosurgical forceps includes a shaft having a pair of jaw members at a distal end and movable about a pivot from a first position and disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members are closer to one another for grasping tissue, a movable handle that actuates a drive assembly to move the jaw members relative to one another. At least one jaw member conducts electrical energy to tissue held therebetween. A flexible insulating boot is disposed on an exterior surface of at least one jaw member and about the pivot and includes a first longitudinal portion made from a high durometer material and a second longitudinal portion made from a low durometer material. The high durometer material may operably retain the flexible insulating boot atop the proximal ends of the jaw members. |
| US09554840B2 |
Low cost low profile inflatable bone tamp
An inflatable bone tamp for performing a minimally invasive surgical procedure includes a shaft having a primary region and a reduced diameter region, and an inflatable structure surrounding at least a portion of the reduced diameter region. The reduced diameter region of the shaft allows the deflated size of the inflatable structure to be minimized, while at the same time eliminating the need for the conventional dual lumen balloon catheter construction. |
| US09554838B2 |
Treatment of subchondral bone by biochemical diagnosis to prevent the progression of osteoarthritis of the joint
Methods for treating pain resulting from osteoarthritis, and associated devices and instruments for such pain treatment are disclosed. These methods aim to prevent the progression of osteoarthritis of a joint, by biochemically diagnosing microenvironmental abnormalities in the subchondral bone, and subsequently treating the subchondral bone to prevent, or delay the onset or progression of, or otherwise treat, osteoarthritis as well as any bone marrow edema or lesion. |
| US09554837B2 |
Device for fixing an elongate element in a retaining structure
A fixation device is used to fix an elongate element, in particular a wire, in an opening of a retaining structure, in particular of an implant plate. The fixation device has a main body. The main body is provided with a bore for receiving the elongate element. The main body is radially deformable in a clamp area, such that the diameter of the bore can be reduced. The main body has an outer contour which is designed in such a way that, when the fixation device is inserted into the opening of the retaining structure, the clamp area is deformed such that the elongate element is clamped securely in the bore. |
| US09554835B2 |
Surgical implant system and method
A surgical instrument comprises a body. A first member extends between a first end and a second end. A second member extends between a first end connected with the body and a second end. A third member is connected to the first end of the first member and the body to relatively axially translate the second ends. The third member includes a latch and a lock engageable with the latch. The latch is disposable in a locking orientation and a non-locking orientation. Systems and methods of use are disclosed. |
| US09554833B2 |
Method and apparatus for performing spinal surgery
Implants, instruments, and methods for performing surgical procedures on the spine, including one or more of creating an operative corridor to the spine, delivering implants to the spine, fusing one or more segments of the spine, and fixing one or more segments of the spine. |
| US09554830B2 |
Delivering drugs to desired locations within a mammal
This document provides materials and methods related to delivering drugs to desired locations within a mammal. For example, materials and methods for implanting a guide wire and a drug eluting implant into a mammal are provided. |
| US09554828B2 |
Birth delivery device with position sensor
A birth delivery device (10, 30) including one or more engaging elements (18, 32) shaped to engage a fetal head, one or more handles (19, 40) connected to the one or more engaging elements (18, 32) that manipulate the one or more engaging elements (18, 32), and one or more position sensors (20) placed on a portion of at least one of the engaging elements (18, 32) and the handles (19, 40), the position sensors (20) being in communication with a processor (22) that processes data from the position sensors (20) to determine positional information related to the fetal head. |
| US09554821B2 |
Resection device with support mechanism and related methods of use
A medical device for resecting tissue. The medical device is slidably disposed within a working channel of an elongate introduction sheath. The medical device includes an elongate shaft having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending therebetween. The distal end of the elongate shaft may include an opening in communication with the lumen. In addition, the medical device includes a support structure having a slot extending along an inner surface of the support structure in communication with the lumen of the elongate shaft. The medical device further includes a snare loop having a first position disposed within the slot of the support structure, and a second position disposed within the lumen of the elongate shaft. An actuation member is slidably disposed within the lumen of the elongate shaft and is connected to the snare loop. |
| US09554816B2 |
Fracturing calcifications in heart valves
A device for fracturing calcifications in heart valves including an expandable stabilizer (14) and expandable impactor arms (20) assembled on and deployed by a delivery system (10), wherein the delivery system (10) is operable to move the impactor arms (20), while in an expanded position, with respect to the stabilizer (14) with sufficient energy so as to fracture a calcification located in tissure which is sandwiched between the stabilizer (14) and the impactor arms (20). |
| US09554814B2 |
Arterial device, system and method for removing embolic debris
An arterial device, system and method are provided for use with a patient undergoing a cardiac procedure. The system is configured for enabling one or more arterial devices to be accommodated in the aorta of the patient in use of the system, and a perfusion lumen arrangement provides therethrough a target perfusion flow into the aorta having a target perfusion flow rate that is significantly greater than a nominal perfusion flow rate, by an excess perfusion flow rate. A suction lumen arrangement provides therethrough a suction flow out of the aorta at a suction flow rate. The target perfusion flow rate and the suction flow rate may be concurrently and selectively controlled to cause embolic debris that may be present in the aorta to be diverted to the suction inlet, while providing the nominal flow rate to the body circulation of the patient. |
| US09554813B2 |
Patella drill guide and trial surgical instrument
An orthopedic surgical instrument includes a patella trial and drill guide that may be used to both perform a surgical trial of the patellofemoral joint and guide the surgeon in drilling a number of anchor holes in the patella of the patient. |
| US09554812B2 |
Tool with integrated navigation and guidance system and related apparatus and methods
Methods and apparatus for integrating an electromagnetic navigation system and a tool and aligning the tool with a target are presented, including a sensor tool, a tool, a field generator, a display, and a computer. The sensor tool attaches to a target component in a unique position relative to target features. The field generator is fixed relative to the tool except in rotation about a tool axis. The display is adjustably mounted to the tool and automatically adjusts image parameters. Target registration and error compensation methods are provided. The system detects magnetic field and signal disturbances that may lead to inaccurate navigation, filters navigation data, and adjusts filtering parameters based on detected conditions. Apparatus for proximally locking an IM nail such that a clear passage through the cannulation of the nail is maintained are provided. |
| US09554811B2 |
Method and apparatus for preparing and fusion of small joints
An embodiment includes a system for preparing fusion of joints, such as joints in the toes or fingers of an animal such as a human. The system may include one or more of complementary ball and socket joint reamers. A reamer may be separable from an intramedullary fixation rod. The rod may include channels to prevent rotation of the rod once implanted in bone. Other embodiments are discussed herein. |
| US09554810B2 |
Femoral system handle surgical instrument and method of assembling same
An orthopedic surgical instrument assembly includes a system handle configured to clamp a broach and femoral stem trial assembly. The system handle includes a clamp lever and a release lever both pivotally coupled to the system handle, and a leaf spring connecting the clamp lever and the release lever. When the release lever is moved from an unclamped position to a clamped position, the leaf spring is put in tension, and the clamp lever engages a flange of the broach, securing the broach to the system handle. Methods of assembling the system handle are described and claimed. |
| US09554805B2 |
Embolic coil implant system and implantation method
Embolic coil implant systems and methods whereby coils are mechanically detachable are disclosed. The coils include a retention element that may be releasably retained within the distal end of an implant tool. The implant tool may include a fulcrum configured to engage a first filament and prevent the release of the coil when the first filament is engaged. Alternatively, an urging means and aperture may be disposed within the sidewall of the implant tool, and a first filament may, in conjunction with the aperture and sidewall, releasably retain the coil until the first filament is withdrawn. The implant tool may also include an alignment member for aligning the first filament. |
| US09554804B2 |
Redeployable left atrial appendage occlusion device
A medical device implant for the left atrial appendage of a patient's heart to prevent strokes. The device includes a cap that overlies the opening of the LAA connected to a bulb in the LAA. Discontinuous segmented sails attached to the cap promote tissue growth over the device. The device maybe repositioned and redeployed during implantation. |
| US09554803B2 |
Electrically self-powered surgical instrument with manual release
A surgical instrument comprising a surgical end effector having an actuation assembly operable to effect a surgical procedure when actuated, a part of the actuation assembly being movable between a first position and second position, and a handle connected to the end effector for actuating the actuation assembly, the handle having a power supply disposed within the handle, a motor disposed within the handle and electrically powered by the power supply, a transmission connecting the motor to the moving part and operational to displace the moving part anywhere between the first and second positions when the motor is operated, and a manual release mechanism that selectively interrupts the transmission and, during interruption, displaces the moving part towards the first position independent of operation of the motor. |
| US09554802B2 |
Anvil assembly with frangible retaining member
An anvil assembly includes a retaining member having a body portion and a frangible portion connected to the body portion, where the frangible portion is positioned to engage a backup member and separates from the body portion during movement of the backup member from a first, proximal position to a second, distal position. The retaining member keeps the backup plate in the proximal position prior to firing of the stapling assembly, and upon separation of the frangible portion allows the backup plate to move to the distal position during firing of the stapling assembly. Proximal force on the backup plate after firing of the stapling assembly is avoided, thereby helping to ensure titling of the anvil assembly. |
| US09554800B2 |
Surgical incision and closure apparatus
An apparatus for closing a surgical incision comprises left and right base panels, a plurality of closure components, and a plurality of left and right axial supports coupled to the respective base panels. The closure components couple the left and right base panels to each other laterally and have left and right ends coupled to the respective base panels. The closure components are positioned laterally across the left and right panels, the left axial supports are disposed between pairs of left closure component ends, the right axial supports are disposed between pairs of right closure component ends, and the left and right axial supports are offset from one another such that a serpentine arrangement of consecutive closure components and axial supports is formed. The apparatus can be made of antimicrobial materials or materials impregnated with antimicrobial agents. A flexible adhesive cover can be provided over the apparatus when in use. |
| US09554799B2 |
Surgical incision and closure apparatus
An apparatus for closing a surgical incision comprises left and right base panels, a plurality of closure components, and a plurality of left and right axial supports coupled to the respective base panels. The closure components couple the left and right base panels to each other laterally and have left and right ends coupled to the respective base panels. The closure components are positioned laterally across the left and right panels, the left axial supports are disposed between pairs of left closure component ends, the right axial supports are disposed between pairs of right closure component ends, and the left and right axial supports are offset from one another such that a serpentine arrangement of consecutive closure components and axial supports is formed. The apparatus can be made of antimicrobial materials or materials impregnated with antimicrobial agents. A flexible adhesive cover can be provided over the apparatus when in use. |
| US09554795B2 |
Anvil cap of a multiple umbrella type for circular staplers
An anvil cap for providing secure anastomosis in a circular staplers in which the anvil cap has a movable inner shaft, a command wire connected to the movable inner shaft so as to cause a pulling movement to be applied to the movable inner shaft, a plurality of upper wings pivotally mounted to joint points on the movable inner shaft so as to be openable in relation to the movable inner shaft, and a plurality of lower wings cooperative with the plurality of upper wings such that the plurality of lower wings open when the plurality of upper wings apply pressure to the plurality of lower wings. |
| US09554793B2 |
Means and methods for suturing tissue
A device according to one exemplary embodiment is a compact, light-weight handheld device that includes a needle and suture assembly, a mechanism for gripping and releasing the needle and suture assembly (a “needle transfer mechanism” or “needle shuttle mechanism”), safely capturing the needle assembly upon exit from the patient's tissue, and returning the needle to position such that the process of delivering additional sutures to the patient can be repeated. The device of the present invention accommodates the right or left-handed user, rests comfortably in the user's hand, allows sufficient visualization of the procedure site, and permits the user to either control penetration depth of the needle or default to a device-determined depth. The present device permits the user to utilize a wrist-rotation (pivoting) suture delivery technique that is familiar to a user based on experience with other surgical techniques. |
| US09554791B2 |
System and method for securing an implant to tissue
A system and method for securing a medical implant within a patient includes disposing an anchor element around the implant, the anchor element including a pair of tabs each including an eyelet, and a flexible intermediate portion between the tabs, by positioning, the implant within the intermediate portion and folding the anchor element such that the tabs contact one another. The anchor element is positioned at a desired implantation position with the tabs proximate soft tissue of the patient. The method further includes inserting a distal tip of a fixation element delivery tool through the eyelets and into the soft tissue, the fixation element including at least one tissue anchor and an adjustable suture arrangement coupled to the tissue anchor. The tissue anchor is deployed from the delivery tool and into the soft tissue of the patient. The delivery tool is withdrawn and the adjustable suture arrangement is tightened. |
| US09554786B2 |
Closure device and methods for making and using them
A medical device that includes a plurality of strut members forming a plurality of generally diamond-shaped openings, the plurality of strut member being configured to form an annular shaped structure with the generally diamond-shaped openings extending generally longitudinally relative to a longitudinal axis of the medical device. A plurality of tissue engaging portions are associated with the plurality of struts, with each tissue engaging portion extending towards the longitudinal axis in a deployed configuration. |
| US09554785B2 |
Vascular locating systems and methods of use
Disclosed are puncture sealing systems and methods of locating a puncture site within a vessel. The systems can include puncture locating dilators and access sheaths that are configured to locate the puncture site within a vessel so that the position of the puncture site relative to a distal end of the access sheath is known during a puncture sealing procedure. |
| US09554783B2 |
Closure device and method of closing a bodily opening
In one embodiment, a device for closing or occluding ASDs and PFOs, or other bodily passageways, includes a circumferential frame, a sheet of biocompatible material attached to the frame, and at least one anchor attached to the sheet of biocompatible material. In another embodiment, the closure device includes a circumferential frame, at least one crossbar extending across and attached to the frame, at least one anchor connected to at least one crossbar; and at least one sheet of biocompatible material (such as ECM material) attached to the frame. The anchor includes at least one grasping member having a structure, such as a wired loop, which is configured for releasable attachment to a delivery release member, which facilitates delivery of a closure device collapsibly disposed in a delivery catheter. Alternatively, one or more anchor end pairs may be connected to a delivery bar enhancing delivery and retrieval of the device. |
| US09554779B2 |
Method and device for MRI-guided breast interventions
A method and apparatus for radially compressing bodily tissue and performing medical procedures from a selected one of a plurality of circumferential positions and angles, a selected one of a plurality of different elevations and elevational angles. Some embodiments include a tissue-compression fixture having members that are configured to be moved to radially compress bodily tissue such that each of a plurality of areas of biological tissue are exposed between the plurality of members, and wherein the fixture is compatible with use in an MRI machine in operation; an actuator having a receiver for a medical-procedure probe; and a computer system operatively coupled to the actuator to move the probe. The computer receives user commands, and based on the commands, moves the actuator to a selected one of a plurality of different positions around the tissue-compression fixture and then extends the probe into the patient. |
| US09554764B2 |
Methods for determining spine instability and for eliminating the impact of patient effort on stability determinations
The present disclosure describes a method for determining spinal instability, more particularly, a method for quantifying the type and extent of spinal instability in a standardized way. The disclosure also describes a method comprising measurement of the intervertebral rotation and intervertebral translation between a vertebrae pair using simple images, and from these measurements, determining if one or more vertebrae pair of the spine is unstable. Finally, the disclosure describes software that may be used to quantify the type and extent of spinal instability. |
| US09554756B2 |
Systems and methods for customizing a multiple alarm system in a portable patient monitor
A patient monitoring system allows medical personnel to customize multi-parameter alarms for particular patients and/or medical conditions. A patient monitor provides a user interface that allows medical personnel to create custom alarms by selecting patient parameters, desired levels or limits, comparators, and logic connectors to define an alarm condition that includes boundary conditions for a plurality of different patient parameters. A user may also link or group the different boundary conditions to define an order in which to process the various logic connectors. |
| US09554755B2 |
Methods, systems, and computer readable media for predicting early onset glaucoma
Methods, systems, and computer readable media for predicting early onset glaucoma via structural parameters obtained via time and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) are disclosed. SD-OCT technology measures the thicknesses of the layers of the retina that contain the cells that die in glaucoma before there is any functional loss. A multivariable predictive model may be used for the diagnosis of early glaucoma using a combination of optic nerve head (ONH), peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), and macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) parameters measured via SD-OCT. The model generates a glaucoma probability score for individual patient, which is valuable information in assisting clinicians in glaucoma diagnosis and treatment. |
| US09554753B2 |
Electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor and method of operating the same
An electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor includes a motion artifact detector configured to detect a motion artifact component from a first channel signal of a first channel and a second channel signal of a second channel using a channel offset coefficient. The channel offset coefficient indicates a difference between the first channel signal and the second channel signal. The ECG sensor includes an ECG filter configured to generate an ECG signal by performing a least mean square (LMS) filtering operation on the first channel signal to remove the motion artifact component. |
| US09554750B2 |
Motility manometer priming manifold system with icon-based user interface and wireless connectivity
A catheter includes a distal distension balloon and circumferentially arranged motility measurement balloons proximal of the distension balloon. A manifold includes balloon ports each configured to fluidly couple to a motility measurement balloon, pressure transducer ports, and a priming port. A port selector is coupled to the manifold and movable between different positions. Each port selector position causes the manifold to establish different fluidic couplings between the respective motility balloon, pressure transducer, and priming ports. A pressure sensing device includes pressure transducers each fluidly coupled to one of the pressure transducer ports. The pressure sensing device is configured to coordinate calibration of the pressure transducers at atmospheric pressure with the port selector in a first position and motility balloon pressure measurements with the port selector in a third position. Priming of the motility measurement balloons is implemented by moving the port selector to a second position. |
| US09554744B2 |
Mining social media for ultraviolet light exposure analysis
Social media databases are minded for data related to a subject person. The data in indicative of a level of ultraviolet light exposure of the subject person. An ultraviolet violet exposure profile for the subject person is generated based upon the data and a health assessment report provided. The data may include timestamped images of the subject person and other related persons. The skin characteristics within images are analyzed to determine an ultraviolet light exposure level for the subject person from each image. The skin characteristics may include skin color, freckling and blemishing. The ultraviolet light exposure profile may be developed over an extended interval based upon the image timestamps. The health report may be used to mitigate risks, such as skin cancer, associated with exposure to ultraviolet light. |
| US09554742B2 |
Fluid analysis system
Systems and method are disclosed for determining a concentration of an analyte in a fluid (e.g., blood). The system can draw blood from a patient and deliver the blood to a sample cell. A particular component of the fluid (e.g., plasma) may be separated and/or positioned such that the concentration of the analyte is measured in the particular component of the fluid (e.g., plasma). The sample cell can include a sample container that has two window pieces. The system can have a fluid passage having a tip configured to mate with a multi-lumen catheter without leaking. The multi-lumen catheter can have proximal and distal ports. A fluid pressure system can be configured to periodically draw fluid from vasculature through a proximal intravascular opening and the proximal port while maintaining a low pressure and/or flow rate to thereby reduce risk of reversing the fluid flow in a vessel and drawing infusates upstream into another intravascular opening. |
| US09554741B2 |
Precision depth control lancing tip
A bodily fluid sampling device is operable to lance with a precise depth and express fluid from both fingertip and alternate sites. In one form, the device is operable to adjust the penetration depth of the lancet into the skin. The bodily fluid sampling device includes a lancet adapted to form an incision in skin. A skin contacting member has an orifice through which the lancet extends when lancing the skin. The orifice has a first opening size that is sized to flatten the skin around the lancet during lancing. The orifice has a second opening size that is larger than the first opening size after the incision is formed to express fluid from the incision. |
| US09554736B2 |
Device with integrated allergy testing
The disclosure provides an allergy detection system for use during catheterization. The allergy detection system is incorporated into specialized syringes, connectors for use with standard syringes, or can be an independent test module designed for the sole purpose of allergy detection. The detection system features a test strip, such as an immunochromatographic test strip, and a structure to couple the system to a connector, syringe, or a housing, to form an independent test module. The detection system, by way of test strips, is used to detect potential allergic reactions. |
| US09554732B2 |
Modular physical activity monitoring system
A system includes an activity-specific article and an activity-agnostic puck. The article includes a receptacle and an activity-specific sensor coupled to the receptacle. The puck is configured to be removably positioned in the receptacle. The puck includes a processor, a communication interface, and at least one activity-agnostic sensor coupled to the processor. The processor receives information from the activity-specific sensor and the activity-agnostic sensor, and provides the received information through the communication interface. |
| US09554722B2 |
Electrode connection monitoring
The present invention relates to an apparatus and a method for measuring muscular activity, in particular in relation to bruxism, and providing an electrical stimulation in response to the measured muscular activity through electrodes applied to the skin of an individual, wherein the quality of the connectivity of the electrodes to the skin is monitored and the electrical stimulation signal is changed based on said quality measurement. |
| US09554720B2 |
Detection of R-peak point in an electrocardiogram signal
Detection of R-peak signal in an electrocardiogram signal is provided. An electrocardiogram signal representing heart activity of an individual is received. The electrocardiogram signal is sampled to obtain a plurality of sample points, and a bounded non-linear response value is computed for each sample point of the received signal by calculating a negative exponential of derivatives of the sample points. |
| US09554716B2 |
Insertion guidance system for needles and medical components
A guidance system for assisting with the insertion of a needle or other medical component into the body of a patient is disclosed. The guidance system utilizes ultrasound imaging or other suitable imaging technology. In one embodiment, the guidance system comprises an imaging device including a probe for producing an image of an internal body portion target, such as a vessel. One or more sensors are included with the probe. The sensors sense a detectable characteristic related to the needle, such as a magnetic field of a magnet included with the needle. The system includes a processor that uses data relating to the detectable characteristic sensed by the sensors to determine a position and/or orientation of the needle in three spatial dimensions. The system includes a display for depicting the position and/or orientation of the needle together with the image of the target. |
| US09554715B2 |
System and method for electrocardiographic data signal gain determination with the aid of a digital computer
In one embodiment, ECG data collected during the long-term monitoring are compressed through a two-step compression algorithm executed by an electrocardiography monitor. Minimum amplitude signals may become indistinguishable from noise if overly inclusive encoding is employed in which voltage ranges are set too wide. The resulting ECG signal will appear “choppy” and uneven with an abrupt slope. The encoding used in the first stage of compression can be dynamically rescaled on-the-fly when the granularity of the encoding is too coarse. In a further embodiment, offloaded ECG signals are automatically gained as appropriate on a recording-by-recording basis to preserve the amplitude relationship between the signals. Raw decompressed ECG signals are filtered for noise content and any gaps in the signals are bridged. An appropriate signal gain is determined based on a statistical evaluation of peak-to-peak voltage (or other indicator) to land as many ECG waveforms within a desired range of display. |
| US09554711B2 |
Sphygmomanometer and charging unit for sphygmomanometer
A sphygmomanometer includes an expandable/contractable air bag supplied with air; a bag-shaped cover body for accommodating the air bag and for attaching the air bag to a site to be measured; an expansion and contraction mechanism for expanding and contracting the air bag; and a power supply unit arranged in the bag-shaped cover body. The power supply unit includes a battery for supplying driving power to the expansion and contraction mechanism, and a non-contact power reception unit for receiving power for charging the battery. The non-contact power reception unit is supplied with power through an electromagnetic inductive action from a non-contact power transmission unit arranged in a non-contact state with the non-contact power reception unit. |
| US09554709B2 |
Specimen information acquisition apparatus and method therefor
There is provided a specimen information acquisition apparatus that can obtain an image in which an influence of a local fluence distribution in a specimen is reduced. A signal processing apparatus includes a region extraction unit and an optical constant estimation unit. The region extraction unit extracts two or more regions that have a known absorption coefficient, from an optical characteristic value distribution of the specimen. The optical constant estimation unit estimates an optical constant of a background of the specimen by using optical characteristic values of the two or more regions extracted by the region extraction unit and a local fluence distribution obtained from an optical constant which is set in advance for the specimen background. |
| US09554708B2 |
Catheter with omni-directional optical tip having isolated optical paths
A catheter enables real-time light measurements, for example, without limitation, diffuse reflectance, fluorescence, etc., from biological materials, such as tissue (including blood), while performing RF ablation. The catheter tip design isolates illumination and collection paths within the tip electrode such that light for illuminating the tissue of interest (e.g., cardiac tissue or blood) is isolated within the tip electrode from light that returns from the tissue to the catheter tip, and vice versa. Such a design advantageously avoids saturation of the optical detector, and ensures diffusion of the illumination light within the medium of interest. The catheter has a catheter body and a tip electrode with a shell wall and a hollow cavity. The shell wall has at least an illumination opening and a collection opening. The catheter further includes a first fiber optic cable in communication with the illumination opening, and a second fiber optic cable in communication with the hollow cavity, wherein light emitted from the first fiber optic cable exits the tip electrode to reach tissue through the illumination opening in defining a first path and returns to the tip electrode from the tissue into the hollow cavity through the collection opening in defining a second path, the first and second paths being optically isolated from each other within the tip electrode. The invention also includes a method of making an ablation electrode tip defining isolated optical paths with in the tip electrode for light exiting the tip electrode and light returning to the tip electrode. |
| US09554706B2 |
System and method for highly reliable delivery of life-critical alarms through shared wireless channels
A patient monitor includes a plurality of monitoring devices which collect data about a patient. An evaluation unit determines the patient's condition from the collected data and generates an alarm if the patient's condition warrants notifying an appropriate medical responder. A communication unit which transmits the alarm to a access point over a hospital Internet protocol (IP) network, the communication device includes a first transmitter for transmitting the alarm using a primary link and a second transmitter for transmitting the alarm using a secondary link in response to the transmission using the primary link failing. |
| US09554705B2 |
System and device for medical monitoring
The present disclosure provides a medical monitoring system which comprises a landmark with a wireless module configured to broadcast a location information, a server connected to the landmark, a wearable device comprising a wearable-end wireless module and a user tag, a monitoring device comprising a monitor-end wireless module and a tag reader, and wherein the tag reader reads a user information from the user tag. The wearable device uses the wearable-end wireless module to receive the location information from the landmark, and determines a first current location based on the location information, and uses the wearable-end wireless module to send the first current location and the user information to the server via the landmark. The monitoring device uses the monitor-end wireless module and the user information as reference to obtain the first current location from the server via the landmark. |
| US09554704B2 |
Living organism biological information measurement device
Provided is a living organism information measurement device which users can easily and reliably operate. A living organism information measurement device for acquiring living organism information and generating measurement data relating to the information is provided with a device body, and a panel detachably attached to the device body. The device body comprises a control unit which executes a plurality of functions of the device body, a living organism information measurement unit which is connected to the control unit and generates the measurement data, and a first communication unit connected to the control unit. The panel comprises a second communication unit including a memory storing predetermined information. When the panel is attached to the device body, the first communication unit receives the predetermined information from the second communication unit. The control unit selects and executes a function corresponding to the received predetermined information among the plurality of functions. |
| US09554703B2 |
Diabetes care system for detection of an analyte and method for selective data transmission
A diabetes care system for detection of an analyte and method for selective data transmission are disclosed. The diabetes care system has a mobile component and a base station, wherein a data transmission occurring between the mobile component and the base station within a time interval in which a wireless communication link exists, wherein is selectively performed in such a manner that within the time interval, a first partial set of the data is transmitted from the mobile component to the base station. The first partial set is selected using a processor-controlled selection algorithm in such a manner that the data transmitted in the time interval is representative of the entirety of the data stored in the mobile component. |
| US09554691B2 |
Endoscopic methods and devices for transnasal procedures
Medical devices, systems and methods that are useable to facilitate transnasal insertion and positioning of guidewires and various other devices and instruments at desired locations within the ear, nose, throat, paranasal sinuses or cranium. Direct viewing of such placements via an endoscope. |
| US09554690B2 |
Endoluminal device with retractor system
Improved methods and devices for performing an endoscopic surgery are provided. Systems are taught for operatively treating gastrointestinal disorders endoscopically in a stable, yet dynamic operative environment, and in a minimally-invasive manner. Such systems include, for example, an endoscopic surgical suite. The surgical suite can have a reversibly-expandable retractor that expands to provide a stable, operative environment within a subject. The expansion can be asymmetric around a stabilizer subsystem to maximize space for a tool and an endoscope to each be maneuvered independently to visualize a target tissue and treat the target tissue from outside the patient in a minimally invasive manner. |
| US09554689B2 |
User interface—demo mode
A method for demonstrating a domestic appliance, the domestic appliance having a controller, a display, and at least one user input component, the method comprising: displaying a plurality of images in accordance with a predetermined order on the display; while displaying a first image of the plurality of images in accordance with the predetermined order on the display, detecting at least one user input that is provided to the at least one user input component; responsive to the at least one user input, displaying a second image of the plurality of images that is associated with the at least one user input on the display for an amount of time; and subsequent to the amount of time, displaying the plurality of images on the display in accordance with the predetermined order resuming with a third image, said second image being different from said first image and said third image. |
| US09554687B2 |
Household appliance and a controlling method for such a household appliance
A household appliance includes a circulation pump for circulating dishwashing liquid in a washing compartment of the household appliance. A drain pump empties the dishwashing liquid from the washing compartment. For the purposes of ventilating the drain pump, a control device is provided to activate the drain pump after the washing compartment has been filled with the dishwashing liquid and before or during operation of the circulation pump. |
| US09554683B2 |
Dual drive floor scrubber
A floor cleaning or burnishing machine has at least one motor controller that is electrically connected to an analog joystick control, right and left potentiometers, an electrical power source, and right and left electrical drive motors. The right motor is mechanically connected to a right rear steering drive wheel and the left motor is mechanically connected to a left rear steering drive wheel. Rotational speed and direction of each rear wheel is independently controlled, by way of the joystick in cooperation with respective potentiometers, in either a forward or reverse direction. At any given time, each potentiometer controls a respective motor controller which individually controls the rotational speed and direction of a respective wheel, thereby each wheel is capable of rotating in an opposite direction at a different speed to the other wheel. To slow the floor cleaning or burnishing machine down, regenerative braking is utilized by operating the motors as generators. |
| US09554681B2 |
Vacuum-cleaning apparatus with vacuum-cleaner unit and filter bag
The invention relates to a vacuum-cleaning apparatus with a vacuum-cleaner unit and a filter bag, in which the filter bag is designed as a flat bag, as a nonwoven filter bag and as a disposable filter bag, and the vacuum-cleaner unit has a filter-bag-accommodating chamber with rigid walls, wherein the filter-bag-accommodating chamber has an opening which can be closed by a flap and has a predetermined opening surface area, through which the filter bag can be inserted into the filter-bag-accommodating chamber. The invention is distinguished in that the ratio between the surface area of a rectangle corresponding to the opening surface area and the surface area of the filter bag is greater than 0.70, preferably greater than 0.85, and highly preferably greater than 1.0. |
| US09554680B2 |
Cleaner head for a cleaning appliance
A cleaner head comprising a main body rotatably coupled to a neck, and a locking arrangement operable to permit rotation of the main body relative to the neck when the cleaner head is positioned on a surface and to prevent rotation of the body relative to the next when the cleaner head is lifted off a surface. The locking arrangement therefore stops the cleaner head from rotating undesirably when the cleaner head is lifted away from a cleaning surface. |
| US09554677B2 |
Dispenser assembly
A dispenser assembly for dispensing a sheet from a roll of sheet material having a longitudinal axis, including: a roll holder for removably holding the roll of sheet material, which is free to rotate relative to the roll holder; a base for supporting the roll holder and for coupling the dispenser assembly with an environment structure; and a pair of coupling elements including a first element coupled to the roll of sheet material and a second element integral to the roll holder, the first element being coupled in a free to rotate and removable manner relative to the second element by magnetic coupling. The first element includes a contacting portion extending transversally relative to the longitudinal axis, which is adhered to a lateral edge of the roll of sheet material and arranged to at least partially recover the lateral edge so that the first element is fixedly secured to the roll of sheet material. |
| US09554674B2 |
Shower rod mounting assembly
A shower rod mounting assembly is provided with a flexible substrate having a first side and a spaced apart second side. A reversible dry adhesive layer at least partially covers the first side of the substrate to attach the flexible substrate to a surface and leave the underlying surface unmarked after removal. The reversible adhesive retains an adhesion property for a plurality of adhesion cycles. A receptacle is mounted to the second side and is adapted to receive an end of a shower rod. A boss extends from the substrate with a track formed therein with an opening to receive an end of a shower rod. A biasing member extends from the substrate adjacent to the opening to retain the end of the shower rod after installation. |
| US09554673B2 |
Shower caddy for holding towel and other items
A towel shower caddy for an improved combination apparatus designed to safely, securely, and efficiently store and transport items, which may be used in the course of personal showering or bathing. The device is essentially comprised of at least one storage container that may contain a towel or other items, may attach above or below a shower head pipe, has a door which may contain a speaker and other electronic devices, a moveable exterior shelf, two detachable hanger members, four detachable suction cups, a support base, a detachable interior shelf and dividing wall, and a collapsible and detachable carrying handle. Different embodiments of the towel shower caddy may include a frame 10, a door 20, a fixed handle assembly 30, a support base system 40, a fixed hanger system 50, two hanger covers 60, and a detachable exterior shelf system 70. |
| US09554672B2 |
Frying system and method
A system and method for frying one or more food items. The system comprises a frying tank (2) having an open state in which the one or more food items may be introduced into the tank (2) and a closed state in which the interior chamber is hermetically sealed. A cooking oil delivery system (6) delivers cooking oil to the tank (2) so as to completely fill the tank with cooking oil. The method of the invention comprises Inserting one or more food items into the frying tank (2) and delivering cooking oil to the tank so as to completely fill the tank, and then frying the food items. |
| US09554671B2 |
Grilling apparatus
A grilling apparatus having a grate and a collection basin. The grate is configured to support food items during a cooking operation and includes a first, second, third, and fourth support member. The collection basin is configured to support the grate during the cooking operation and includes a domed bottom surface having an apex substantially centered in the collection basin, and a first, second, third, and fourth diversion channel along the domed bottom surface, where each diversion channel is configured to channel substances that fall from the grate. The collection basin also includes a first, second, and third basin void passing through the domed bottom surface, where the first basin void is positioned between the first and the second diversion channel, the second basin void is positioned between the second and the third diversion channel, and the third basin void is positioned between the third and the fourth diversion channel. |
| US09554665B2 |
Drapery holdback assembly
A drapery holdback assembly having interchangeable, adjustable decorative ends is provided. The drapery holdback includes a base portion for mounting to a supporting surface. A neck portion extends from the base portion to a distal head portion, which provides an arcuate magnet along a portion of its periphery. The drapery holdback includes an interface assembly having a decorative end and an opposing joint end, wherein the joint end forms a magnetically attractive curved surface so as to be movable and/or positionable over the arcuate magnet to various orientations. Being magnetically connected, different interface assemblies and so different decorative ends, may be interchanged onto the head portion at the user's whim. A spring is disposed between the decorative and joint ends, so that the interface assembly absorbs shock and other compressive forces to prevent damage to the drapery holdback assembly. |
| US09554660B2 |
Reach-in door for refrigerated cabinets
A door is constructed for a refrigerated cabinet and includes an insulated glass IG unit of rectangular shape and a frame surrounding the unit. The frame is formed of a pair of horizontally disposed aluminum rails and a pair of vertically disposed plastic stiles. Each stile is secured at each end to a respective end of each of the rails by screws. Each rail and stile receives the insulated glass unit in a recessed manner. Full perimeter gasketing of the door is obtained by a vertical gasket on the stile on the hinged side of the door and a pair of horizontal seals on the cabinet opposite the rails of the door. |
| US09554655B2 |
Support surface assembly and tensioning method for a sleeping person
A kit (100) for constructing a support surface (10) for a sleeping person. The kit (100) comprises: an air-permeable layer (20) having at least one pair of opposing layer-edge portions stretchable at least in the direction between the layer-edge portions (11, 12, 13, 14) to form the support surface; at least one pair of parallel opposing frame sections (30, 32, 34, 36) fixedly disposable at a distance therebetween for forming at least a portion of a frame (15) supporting the support surface; at least a first of said frame sections (30, 32, 34, 36) comprising a layer-edge engaging portion (31, 33, 35, 37) configured for fixedly engaging a corresponding layer-edge portion (11, 12, 13, 14); and a tensioning mechanism configured for moving the layer-edge engaging portion (31, 33, 35, 37) together with the layer-edge portion (11, 12, 13, 14) relative to the opposing frame section (30, 32, 34, 36) to at least partially tension the air-permeable layer (20) between the frame sections (30, 32, 34, 36). |
| US09554649B2 |
Modular framework support systems
The present invention relates to modular framework support systems. In particular, it relates to framework support systems of the non-penetrative type particularly used for supporting heating and ventilating apparatus and other service and plant apparatus on a roof of a building. The application describes a support (10) for a modular framework system, the support comprising a planar foot (11) comprising a socket (12) having a substantially rectangular cross-section with a long axis and a short axis. The socket has a base and an opening. The socket is provided with one or more elongate ribs (25) between the base and the opening and extending into the socket. The socket further comprises a projection (20) extending upwardly from the base, the projection having a spine (21) aligned with the long axis of the socket. Preferably, each rib (25) has a stepped configuration such that an operatively lower portion of the rib extends further into the socket than an operatively upper portion of the rib. |
| US09554648B2 |
Sliding system for drawer
The present invention relates to a sliding system for a drawer comprising a main base which is fixed unto a grill whose front end of the base overlaps from the same; a wire rod base set over the main base by means of a fixed rail, said wire rod base allows for the complete aperture of the drawer; a drawer base which supports the drawers and remains fixed unto the system; a plurality of bushings which decrease the amount of friction, which allows for smooth and silent sliding; a magnet which provides closing force to the drawer which grants the closing sensation when the drawer reaches the bump and extractable drawers which are transportable. |
| US09554647B2 |
Connecting device and drawer having a connecting device
The invention proposes a device for connecting wall elements of a drawer, wherein the wall elements, in the connected state, form at least part of a wall of the drawer, and wherein the drawer wall comprises a front wall, a rear wall and/or at least one side wall. According to the invention, a plate-like connecting adapter with engagement means is provided for connecting the wall elements which are to be connected, the engagement means interacting, for connecting purposes, both with an end side of a first wall element which is to be connected and with a main side of a second wall element which is to be connected, wherein the connecting adapter, in its main direction of extent, butts against the end side and the main side. |
| US09554645B2 |
Modular ease-of-use shelving system
A bracket is for use in a modular construction system, wherein plates are mechanically connected in a releasable manner to form a structure. The plates comprise at least one hole in a part thereof, wherein the hole is configured for being coupled to the bracket. The bracket comprises at least two foot portions for being coupled to respective plates. Each foot portion comprises a gripper element for being inserted into the hole of the plate and a linking member connecting the at least two foot portions and establishing a predefined fixed distance and a predefined fixed relative orientation between said foot portions. The gripper element is configured for enlarging a diameter in at least one direction in a plane parallel to the plate to obtain a friction coupling between the bracket and the plate or between the bracket and a further bracket provided from another side of the respective plate, when activated in operational use, and for reducing the diameter of the gripper element in a first direction of the plane parallel to the plate to release the bracket from the plate, when deactivated in operational use. |
| US09554644B2 |
Adjustable desk platform
An adjustable desk platform can include: an upper platform defining a substantially planar work surface; a base located beneath the upper platform, the base defining a bottom surface without legs that is adapted to sit on an existing desk; first and second sets of arms coupling the upper platform to the base, wherein the first and second sets of arms are adapted for movement of the upper platform substantially in parallel with the base between a fully raised position and a fully lowered position; and a user-operable locking mechanism associated with the upper platform, the locking mechanism adapted to releasably lock the upper platform in the fully raised position, and in at least one intermediate position between the fully raised position and the fully lowered position. Other features and embodiments are discussed. |
| US09554643B2 |
Height adjustable support tray apparatus
The present apparatus relates generally to a height adjustable support tray apparatus and accessories, and more particularly to an improved height adjustable support tray apparatus to provide a portable working surface. Particularly the instant apparatus includes a unique attaching section which securely attaches the instant apparatus to the selected support structure. The instant apparatus, when attached to the applicable support structure, provides a broadly useable working surface on which to support various items. The instant apparatus includes a variety of repositioning elements thereby allowing users a multitude of adjustments of the angle and position of the working surface. The instant apparatus also includes support elements which greatly increases the load carrying capacity of the working surface over minimally supported or non-supported working services. |
| US09554640B2 |
Oral care implement and method of manufacturing an oral care implement
An oral care implement is provided. The implement comprises: a handle having a core (118) comprising recycled material and a cover (112) enveloping the core (118); and a head comprising at least one cleaning element, the head (120) being connected to, or connectable to, the handle. Also provided is a method of manufacturing an oral care implement, the method comprising: providing recycled material; and enveloping the recycled material with cover material to form a handle of the oral care implement, the handle having a core comprising the recycled material and a cover comprising the cover material enveloping the core. |
| US09554638B2 |
Backpack jacket
A jacket includes an inner harness, a jacket for wearing over the harness, and a load for attachment to the harness through attachment openings in the jacket. The load can be an airbag, a backpack, or other load or load carrying member for attaching to the harness. The jacket has at least one back opening providing access to the inner harness, to facilitate the attachment of the load to the harness. The jacket can be readily removed without disturbing the harness or its load. The removed jacket is effectively carried by the load and/or harness to which the load is secured. The inner harness can be used to carry loads without using the jacket. |
| US09554631B1 |
Hygienic products organizer case/display stand for use with a suitcase
A suitcase includes pivotally attached first and second shells, and latch means for releasably securing the shells when closed. A partition divides the second shell into first and second compartments. Second and third partitions sub-divide the second compartment into first, second, and third sub-compartments adapted to separately store two pairs of shoes, and a blow-dryer. A transparent flap releasably seals the shoe compartments using Velcro, preventing egress of dislodged debris. Fishnet secures the blow-dryer in the third sub-compartment. The first compartment receives a correspondingly shaped case that is partitioned to form a plurality of shaped sub-compartments, to receive correspondingly shaped toiletry items. A pivotal cover seals the case, and alternatively supports it in a selective upright position for hygienic display/use on a vanity countertop of a hotel room. A third shell is pivotally coupled to the second shell to form a tri-fold arrangement for use with a hotel luggage rack. |
| US09554628B2 |
Child resistant slider having insertable torpedo and methods
A child resistant zipper closure for a bag includes a slider having a flexible tab with a torpedo. To open a zipper closure, the tab must be held in a downward position to engage the torpedo between male and female tracks and result in separation of interlocked complementary profiles, while the slider is moved along the zipper closure. |
| US09554626B2 |
Easy release compound assemblies comprising a locking arrangement
There is provided a locking arrangement that includes an entry element and a housing element, the entry element having a portion that is selectively disposable in the housing element via a movement of the portion of the entry element and the housing element relatively toward one another in an insertion direction, the entry element and the housing element being in a releasably secured disposition when the portion of the entry element has been disposed in the housing element via a movement of the portion of the entry element and the housing element relatively toward one another in the insertion direction and the entry element and the housing element being releasable from their releasably secured disposition via a movement in a release direction that is other than a direction opposite to the insertion direction. |
| US09554623B2 |
Guitar-shaped bladder for footwear
An article of footwear includes an upper for securing the article of footwear to a wearer. The footwear also includes a sole assembly operatively coupled to the upper. The sole assembly includes a bladder that contains a fluid. The bladder has a posterior portion, an anterior portion, and a middle portion disposed between the posterior and anterior portions. The posterior portion has a heel recess that is approximately coincidental with a center of a heel of the wearer. The middle portion includes a neck chamber that extends between the posterior and anterior portions. The neck chamber is elongate and has a width that is less than both the posterior and anterior portions, and the anterior portion has a plurality of toe recesses that extend generally away from the neck chamber. |
| US09554621B2 |
Midsole for a running shoe
A midsole for a running shoe is described, which shoe comprises a rear foot area (150) with a bottom heel portion (20) and an upper heel portion (142). The upper heel portion (142) is molded in one piece with the bottom heel portion and extended vertically to cover the tuberosity (68) of the calcaneus (69). According to the invention, the upper heel portion (142) is asymmetric about a vertical axis (B-B) dividing the midsole (1) into two halves wherein the area of midsole material supporting the heel on the medial side (143) of the upper heel portion (142) is larger than the supporting area of the midsole material on the lateral side (151) of the upper heel portion. This design stabilizes the foot during motion, and contributes to lowering the risk of injury during running. |
| US09554617B2 |
Protection devices for use in shoes or other products
A variety of devices for protecting a user's foot from injury are disclosed. In one embodiment, the device may be a metatarsal protection device, which may include a first layer of material having top and bottom surfaces, with at least one of such surfaces including a series of cones or a pattern of hexagons thereon. The metatarsal protection device may also include a second relatively rigid layer of material overlying the first layer, and the first layer may be shaped to conform to the metatarsal region of the user's foot, such that the device is configured to protect the metatarsal region against injury. Other configurations and variations of a metatarsal protection device are also disclosed, as are other uses for the principles of the invention(s) disclosed herein (e.g., protection devices for other areas of the foot, etc). |
| US09554614B2 |
Article of footwear incorporating braided tensile strands
A branched braid member has a central braid portion and one or more tensile strands or small braids at either end of the central braid portion. The branched braid member may be incorporated into a shoe upper. |
| US09554608B2 |
Helmet system
A protective helmet for successive impacts includes a head cap adapted to surround and move with a wearer's head and an outer shell which surrounds the head cap. An energy absorbing flexible liner predominantly comprised of radially oriented foam columns is attached to both the head cap and outer shell. The liner establishes a preset initial relative position and spacing between the head cap and the outer shell and compliantly absorbs energy imparted to the outer shell during a helmet impact to enable the outer shell to move linearly and angularly relative to the head cap during the helmet impact and to be returned to the initial relative position with the head cap following the impact. |
| US09554607B2 |
Communication system for impact sensors
Systems and methods for monitoring head-accelerations data for a plurality of athletes. An exemplary system includes a plurality of athlete-mounted sensor units that record acceleration information and wirelessly transmit the recorded acceleration information and information identifying the sensor unit, if the recorded acceleration information exceeds a predefined threshold. A base unit receives the wirelessly transmitted acceleration information and the information identifying the sensor unit and makes the received information available to at least one output device. |
| US09554606B2 |
Protective headwear assembly having a built-in camera
A protective headwear assembly is provided having a built-in camera, including a camera lens disposed in a front portion thereof. The camera lens is configured to provide a downward orientation relative to a horizontal plane of the headwear so that the camera captures imaging near the feet of the wearer. In an exemplary embodiment, the headwear is adapted for use by skateboarders and provides, among other things, for the recording of tricks and feet placement/technique. The camera lens can be pivotally mounted to an outer shell of the headwear assembly. |
| US09554604B2 |
Back integral air distribution system in ventilated suit
Ventilated suit embodiments are disclosed. The ventilated suit typically comprises a hood portion, four limb portions, an air inlet port, and an air distribution system in fluid communication with the air inlet port and attached to the back portion of the ventilated suit. The air distribution systems comprises at least five air pathways that extend into the four limbs and hood of the suit, with the air pathways being in fluid communication with the air inlet port to distribute air outward into the limbs and hood. |
| US09554601B2 |
Convertible garment and a bag
A garment comprises a body having a waist area with a waist opening and a chest area with a head opening; sleeves extending from the body; a hood extending from the body about the head opening and having a face opening; and a waist opening closer on a lower portion of the waist area to retain opposite sides of the waist opening in contact so as to form a floor of a bag with the waist area of the body. |
| US09554595B2 |
Inhaler component
The disclosure relates to an inhaler component comprising: a housing (3) with a housing cover; a mouthpiece (4) with a mouthpiece opening (5) for the supply of an inhalable medium into the oral cavity of a user; a flavor reservoir (6) capable of communicating with the environment by diffusion, containing a flavoring (16), for the release of the flavoring (16) into the environment and for the olfactory perception of the same by the user, where a) the housing (3) comprises a housing component (3a); b) the mouthpiece (4) is separably connected with the housing component (3a); c) the housing cover comprises a first cover part (11) and second cover part (14); d) the housing component (3a) forms the first cover part (11); e) the mouthpiece (4) forms the second cover part (14), f) and the flavor reservoir (6) is structurally united with the mouthpiece (4), is superficially formed and is arranged flat on the second cover part (14) or itself forms the second cover part (14). |
| US09554594B2 |
Filtered cigarette incorporating an adsorbent material
A filter element incorporating an adsorbent material is provided. The filter element may comprise a first section of filter material and a second section of filter material spaced apart to form a compartment therebetween. The compartment may be filled with one or more adsorbents or the compartment may be divided into two regions, wherein one compartment region is filled with an adsorbent and the other compartment region is either filled with an ion-exchange resin or remains empty. The section of filter material adjacent to the tobacco rod may include one or more channels therethrough for passaging smoke directly from the tobacco rod into the adsorbent-filled compartment. The mouth end section of filter material may contain a breakable capsule, wherein the breakable capsule is filled with a flavoring agent capable of altering the taste characteristics of mainstream smoke. |
| US09554593B2 |
Food forming apparatus with a food feed member
The present invention relates to a food-forming-apparatus with: a rotating drum (5) which comprises product cavities in which a food product is formed from a food mass and a food mass feed member (23), which comprises a housing with an infeed channel (24) and at least one upstream sealing area (25) and/or a downstream sealing area (26) and a flexible pressure plate (7) which is pressed against the outer surface of the drum and thereby provides a seal between the food mass member and the drum. The drum has at its outer surface a multitude of rows of cavities. |
| US09554592B2 |
Beverages and foodstuffs resistant to light induced flavour changes, processes for making the same, and compositions for imparting such resistance
One aspect of the present invention is concerned with a composition containing: (A) at least 10 μg of particular substituted pyrroles per kg of dry matter; and (B) at least 100 mg per kg of dry matter of a pyranone selected from the group consisting of maltol, 2,3-dihydro-3,5-dihydroxy-6-methyl-4H-pyran-4-one and combinations thereof; which composition, when dissolved in water at a dry solids content of 0.1 wt. %, exhibits: i. an absorption at 280 nm (A280) that exceeds 0.01, preferably exceeds 0.05; and ii. an absorption ratio A280/560 of at least 100, preferably of at least 200. The present composition can advantageously be used as an additive in beverages or foodstuffs to prevent or reduce light induced flavor changes. The invention also encompasses a process for the manufacture of the aforementioned composition. |
| US09554587B2 |
Anti-regurgitation composition maintaining gut motility
The present invention relates to nutritional compositions intended to prevent or treat regurgitations in infants and young children without altering, or even improving, their gut motility and/or for preventing and/or treating intestinal disorders of the infant or child. The invention also concerns the process for manufacturing this composition. |
| US09554585B2 |
Feed blocks and methods of making and using same
A feed block is formed of compacted feed components and includes a moisture level of between about 7 and about 15 percent. Feed blocks have an initial weight, which is substantially free of liquid, and liquid is introduced to the feed block to cause the feed block to absorb liquid. A final resulting weight of the feed block is at least 100 percent greater than the initial weight. The feed block with the absorbed liquid is provided the to the livestock animals for the simultaneous ingestion of feed and liquid. Feed blocks are formed by introducing feed components in a high pressure press and compacting the feed components to form the feed block. |
| US09554581B2 |
Sausage collating device and method for collating sausages to form sausage groups
The invention relates to a sausage collating device and a method for collating sausages to form sausage groups of a predetermined number of sausages with a transport device for transporting spaced sausages and at least one accumulator element for accumulating the sausages, where the at least one accumulator element is for collating and is movable in the direction of transport of the transport device. |
| US09554580B2 |
System and apparatus for controlling blistering
A system and method for controlling blisters. The method begins by mixing the ingredients to form a dough with a moisture content between about 35% and 60%. The dough is sheeted and cut. Thereafter, the dough is pre-heated to reduce the moisture content to between about 10% and about 45%. The preforms are then docked and dehydrated. The docking system, in one embodiment, has a backing plate and a docking device with at least two docking pins of varying lengths. The docking device is adjustable relative to the backing plate. The system also has a removing plate which removes preforms from the docking pins. |
| US09554577B2 |
Herbicidal formulation
A capsule suspension formulation comprising microencapsulated pendimethalin comprising a herbicidally effective amount of pendimethalin being encapsulated within a polymeric wall, said polymeric wall being in-situ formed by an interfacial polymerization reaction occurring between a first phase dispersed in a second phase, at least one of said first and second phases being characterized in comprising a pre-defined amount of at least one alkali or alkaline earth metal salt of an organic acid; and a herbicidally effective amount of a second herbicide. |
| US09554575B2 |
Combinations of lipo-chitooligosaccharides and methods for use in enhancing plant growth
Disclosed are methods of enhancing plant growth, comprising treating plant seed or the plant that germinates from the seed with an effective amount of at least two lipo-chitooligosaccharides, wherein upon harvesting the plant exhibits at least one of increased plant yield measured in terms of bushels/acre, increased root number, increased root length, increased root mass, increased root volume and increased leaf area, compared to untreated plants or plants harvested from untreated seed. |
| US09554569B2 |
Repellant system
A repellant system for repelling nuisances such as insects from an area around a surface such as a table. The repellant system generally includes a base, a first receiver extending from the base, a first linkage frictionally adjustable within the first receiver, a second receiver adjustably connected to the first linkage, and a second linkage frictionally adjustable within the second receiver. A motor in the base may be utilized for automated rotation of the first receiver on the base. An adjustment connector links the first linkage with the second receiver. A pair of mounts on the second receiver and second linkage removably retains a sheet roller which dispenses a sheet which will deter insects and other nuisances. |
| US09554568B1 |
System and method for bedbug eradication
Described herein is a refrigeration system for bedbug eradication. The refrigeration system comprises a generator, a condensing unit, and a portable evaporating and blowing unit connected with the condensing unit for transporting into a bedbug-infested room of a building. Temperature sensors are used for monitoring an ambient temperature in the bedbug-infested room to ensure that the temperature drops to a predetermined temperature to kill the bedbugs and their eggs. Moisture in the bedbug-infested room is removed with a dehumidifier prior to cooling down the bedbug-infested room with the evaporating and blowing unit. |
| US09554564B2 |
IncRNA-knockout mice
Genetically modified non-human animals are provided that exhibit a functional lack of one or more lncRNAs. Methods and compositions for disrupting, deleting, and/or replacing lncRNA-encoding sequences are provided. Genetically modified mice that age prematurely are provided. Also provided are cells, tissues and embryos that are genetically modified to comprise a loss-of-function of one or more lncRNAs. |
| US09554563B2 |
Genetically modified mice and engraftment
A mouse with a humanization of the mIL-3 gene and the mGM-CSF gene, a knockout of a mRAG gene, and a knockout of a mIl2rg subunit gene; and optionally a humanization of the TPO gene is described. A RAG/Il2rg KO/hTPO knock-in mouse is described. A mouse engrafted with human hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) that maintains a human immune cell (HIC) population derived from the HSCs and that is infectable by a human pathogen, e.g., S. typhi or M. tuberculosis is described. A mouse that models a human pathogen infection that is poorly modeled in mice is described, e.g., a mouse that models a human mycobacterial infection, wherein the mouse develops one or more granulomas comprising human immune cells. A mouse that comprises a human hematopoietic malignancy that originates from an early human hematopoietic cells is described, e.g., a myeloid leukemia or a myeloproliferative neoplasia. |
| US09554558B2 |
Support garment kit and method of using same
A self contained support kit includes a utility envelope configured to be removably secured to an animal garment, such as a sweater or shirt, for the deployment of a diaper coupler to grip and hold a diaper in its intended animal protective position; the animal garment and the diaper being separate articles of clothing worn by an animal; one for substantially covering the fore section of the animal and one for substantially covering the hind section of the animal. |
| US09554556B2 |
Apparatus and method for using a toilet as a water supply for pets
An automatically refreshed water supply for pets is provided by diverting the water from the water supply of a toilet to a water dispenser accessible to the pet and returning excess water to the toilet. The water is diverted from the flush cycle of a toilet to an exterior dish which fills to a predetermined level and then overflows over the edge of the dish and then by way of channels into the toilet, retaining the water after the flush cycle is completed. Alternatively a mechanism can be provided for triggering the replacement water flow by sensing of the motion or weight of the pet. The system can be pet-triggered for the toilet flush and/or flow of replacement water to the pet dish, or continuous water flow as long as the pet is detected. |
| US09554554B2 |
Auto and truck pet chin-rest
An auto and truck window pillow comprising a fabric sleeve defining a cavity, the fabric sleeve comprising a first face comprising a planar fabric protruding perpendicular to the first face and parallel to a long axis of the cavity and a second face comprising an opening parallel to the long axis of the cavity, filler material positioned within the cavity, and a first fastener comprising a track body adapted to attach to an auto or truck window and the planar fabric, whereby a dog can rest its chin on the window pillow. |
| US09554553B2 |
Animal housing assembly
An animal housing assembly includes a cage assembly coupled to a base member to provide an enclosure for one or more animals to be kept in captivity. The base member includes a slidable tray coupled thereto, the tray being configured to move from a closed position to an open position to allow cleaning of the base member. When in a closed position, a portion of the tray forms a portion of the floor of the base member. When the tray moves from the closed position to the open position, the tray translates in a direction away from the base member, thereby exposing an aperture defined in the floor of the base member. The aperture may be shaped and/or sized to allow debris to fall through the floor of the base member, thereby allowing removal of unwanted debris and cleaning of the base member. |
| US09554551B2 |
Cleaning unit for cleaning at least one head section of a teat cup
A cleaning unit for cleaning at least one head section of a teat cup including a chamber that has a substantially circular cross-section, is delimited by a wall and has an opening delimited by a scaling element. The chamber has at least one inlet and is characterized in that at least one section of the sealing element or at least one section of the wall adjoining the opening and a section of the sealing element is or are flexible around the circumference of the chamber. |
| US09554549B1 |
Soybean variety XBP57005SR
A novel soybean variety, designated XBP57005SR is provided. Also provided are the seeds of soybean variety XBP57005SR, cells from soybean variety XBP57005SR, plants of soybean XBP57005SR, and plant parts of soybean variety XBP57005SR. Methods provided include producing a soybean plant by crossing soybean variety XBP57005SR with another soybean plant, methods for introgressing a transgenic trait, a mutant trait, and/or a native trait into soybean variety XBP57005SR, methods for producing other soybean varieties or plant parts derived from soybean variety XBP57005SR, and methods of characterizing soybean variety XBP57005SR. Soybean seed, cells, plants, germplasm, breeding lines, varieties, and plant parts produced by these methods and/or derived from soybean variety XBP57005SR are further provided. |
| US09554548B1 |
Sorghum inbred PHA44VJIT
A novel sorghum variety designated PHA44VJIT and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a plant that comprise crossing sorghum variety PHA44VJIT with another plant. Methods for producing a plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PHA44VJIT through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the sorghum seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid sorghum seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the sorghum variety PHA44VJIT or a locus conversion of PHA44VJIT with another sorghum variety. |
| US09554542B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH115983
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH115983. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH115983, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH115983 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH115983. |
| US09554533B1 |
Maize inbred PH25R0
A novel maize variety designated PH25R0 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH25R0 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH25R0 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH25R0 or a locus conversion of PH25R0 with another maize variety. |
| US09554529B2 |
Soybean variety 01046035
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated 01046035. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety 01046035. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety 01046035 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety 01046035 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods. |
| US09554527B2 |
Cotton variety FM 1320GL
The cotton variety FM 1320GL is disclosed. The invention relates to seeds, plants, plant cells, plant tissue, harvested products and cotton lint as well as to hybrid cotton plants and seeds obtained by repeatedly crossing plants of variety FM 1320GL with other plants. The invention also relates to plants and varieties produced by the method of essential derivation from plants of FM 1320GL and to plants of FM 1320GL reproduced by vegetative methods, including but not limited to tissue culture of regenerable cells or tissue from FM 1320GL. |
| US09554521B2 |
Distribution machine
A machine for distribution of products for animals, including a bucket with an opening toward a casing including a first wall adjacent to the opening and a second wall remote from the first wall, in which casing a turbine is mounted that can rotate around a rotation axis, the turbine including a disc with blades and knives. The turbine further includes a plate oriented toward the opening and remote from the disc, and a central part remote from the disc and at least one branch, the at least one branch extends from the central part in a substantially radial direction of the disc, the at least one branch of the plate is connected to the disc by two lateral closing sheets to form a bin, the at least one blade of the turbine is formed by the bin. |
| US09554520B2 |
Agricultural vehicle with an access panel lock
An agricultural machine comprising an input shaft connectable to the power take off shaft of a tractor; a flywheel connected to the input shaft; workings driven by the input shaft; an access panel openable to provide access to the workings of the machine; an access panel handle having a first position for opening and a second position for closing the access panel; and a brake for arresting rotating of the flywheel with a brake handle with a first position for braking the flywheel and a second position for releasing the flywheel; the access panel handle and the brake handle are arranged with respect to each other such that the access panel handle can only be placed in its first opening position when the brake is in first braking position. |
| US09554518B2 |
Actuation linkage for flexible crop residue management
An agricultural harvester with a flexible crop residue management system. A pivotal swath door and displaceable windrow chute are coordinated to be displaced between positions in which all of crop residue is spread laterally and another position in which straw in the crop residue is directed in a windrow by a windrow chute and the chaff is directed laterally. The windrow chute and swath door are each pivotally mounted and a linkage is provided between the windrow chute and swath door in the form of bars extending in between rollers to displace the windrow chute in coordination with the displacement of the swath door. |
| US09554517B2 |
Separably-driven rotor portions and associated method for threshing grain
Separably-driven rotor portions for a combine harvester and a method for threshing grain using separably-driven rotor portions are provided. The combine harvester is moved through harvest material comprising grain material and material-other-than-grain (“MOG”). The grain material is separated from the MOG using multiple processing areas. The auger portion may be stopped or rotated at a slower speed with respect to rotation of the threshing portion to simulate the gathering of a large amount of crop material even when small plots are involved, thereby providing the benefits of large-plot harvesting to small-plot applications. |
| US09554516B2 |
Apparatus and methods for gathering bales
Apparatus and methods which use a conveyored loading assembly for gathering bales and, in particular, round bales such as a hay or corn stover bales. |
| US09554515B1 |
Belt pickup with drive system
A belt pickup (100) with drive system (130) includes a frame (102); a pickup conveyor (106) supported on the frame (102), a transfer conveyor (108) supported on the frame (102), wherein the drive system (130) includes a motor (132) coupled to a drive roller of the transfer conveyor (108), a first pulley (134) driven by the motor (132), a first drive belt (136) driven by the first pulley (134), a second pulley (138) driven by the first drive belt (136), a third pulley (140) fixed to the second pulley (138) and driven by the second pulley (138), a second drive belt (142) driven by the third pulley (140), and a fourth pulley (144) coupled to a drive roller (112) of the pickup conveyor (106). |
| US09554514B2 |
Rotary cutter implement with ball joint connection to a power machine
A rotary cutter implement includes a carrier interface, a frame, and a mower deck including a ball joint interconnecting the mower deck with the frame. The ball joint enables freedom of movement of the mower deck with respect to the frame. A hydraulic motor is mounted on an upper surface of the mower deck and includes an output shaft extending through the mower deck. The hydraulic motor is adapted to operate under the influence of hydraulic fluid provided by the power machine. A rotary cutting blade is operably coupled to the output shaft and rotatable under the mower deck in response to operation of the hydraulic motor. |
| US09554513B2 |
Automated selective harvesting of crops with continuous offload
A system including a picking apparatus including a plurality of grippers each spaced apart and extending radially from a central axis of the picking apparatus, and each configured to pick a different individual crop of crops of plants. The picking apparatus can be configured to use a first one of the plurality of grippers to pick a first individual crop of the crops at a first time. During a second time period that starts with a second one of the plurality of grippers picking a second individual crop of the crops and ends with a third one of the plurality of grippers picking a third individual crop of the crops, the picking apparatus can be configured to offload the first individual crop from the first one of the plurality of grippers. The second time period can start after the first time. The second and third ones of the plurality of grippers can be configured to hold the second and third individual crops, respectively, at the end of the second time period. Other embodiments are provided. |
| US09554510B2 |
Header assembly for a harvester with a secondary cutting and processing mechanism
A header assembly for a harvesting machine comprising a primary cutter head for cutting the crop, and a feeder for feeding the cut crop into the mouth of a crop processing mechanism. The assembly further comprises a secondary scissor-action cutter head trailing behind the primary cutter head for cutting stalks left behind by the primary cutter head, the secondary cutter head coupled to the rear of the header and supported by ground engaging rollers. The rollers include at least one support cylinder having a circumferentially discontinuous ground engaging outer surface operative to perform a preliminary processing of at least one of the crop residue and the soil. |
| US09554509B2 |
Agricultural harvesting machine with an exchangeable crop processing element
An agricultural harvesting machine comprises an exchangeable crop processing element, which is installed in the interior of the harvesting machine and which is available in different variants, an electronic control unit, which is connected with a data bank in which data concerning the crop processing element are stored, and a reading device, which is set up to interact with an identification element placed on the crop processing element and to transmit an output signal to the control device that clearly identifies the crop processing element during or after an incorporation of a crop processing element into the harvesting machine; with the aid of the signal, the control unit updates the data bank. |
| US09554507B2 |
Mowing robot with mowing boundary area and grass length recognizer
A mowing boundary area recognizing apparatus of a mowing robot includes a ground state measurer configured to acquire environment data of a ground based on a grass length on the ground, a determiner configured to determine the grass length on the ground on a basis of the ground environment data to recognize a mowing boundary area, and a controller configured to adjust running of the mowing robot to a mowing area for which mowing is needed. |
| US09554506B2 |
Fluid flow monitoring and control system for an agricultural sprayer
A fluid flow monitoring and control system for a self-propelled applicator which may be a sprayer and is configured to allow real-time visual monitoring of graphical representations of system statuses, control of the systems, and coordinated control instructions for multiple tasks through a single user input or command. The fluid flow monitoring and control system may include a touchscreen HMI providing electronic control and monitoring for the systems and components of the applicator. A rules engine may be implemented to prevent erroneous states, such as activating a pump without fluid flow to the pump as a rule implemented interlock to prevent inadvertent rapid component wear or other compromises of system integrity. |
| US09554499B2 |
Agricultural implement mounting
An agricultural vehicle has an implement connection hitch which is moveable relative to a rear axle of the vehicle. A system for controlling movement of the connection hitch is coupled with position sensors such as a GPS receiver. During turning maneuvers, the control system moves the hitch relative to the rear axle of the vehicle until it reaches an offset position such as to reduce the turning circle of the vehicle and a connected implement. The extent of offset may be determined automatically by the control system on identification of a connected implement. |
| US09554498B2 |
Large field cultivator narrow fold
An agricultural implement including a main frame having a pull hitch tube extending in a travel direction and a main frame tool bar coupled with and extending transverse to the pull hitch tube, and a plurality of pivotal wings coupled with the main frame. Each of the plurality of wings have at least one pivotal wing front section and at least one pivotal wing rear section. The pivotal wing front sections and the pivotal wing rear sections pivot from a generally horizontal position to a generally vertical position, and the wings fold from a perpendicular position to a position parallel with the pull hitch tube. |
| US09560790B2 |
Power electronics cooling system with two-phase cooler
Cooling systems and vehicles containing cooling systems are disclosed. A cooling system may include an evaporator, a condenser positioned downstream from the evaporator, a pump positioned downstream from the condenser, and a two phase cooler positioned downstream from the pump and in series upstream from the evaporator. The two phase cooler may receive thermal energy from a heat generating device to preheat a working fluid and directs the preheated working fluid to the evaporator. |
| US09560789B2 |
System and method for fluid cooling of electronic devices installed in a sealed enclosure
A system and method for cooling electronic devices disposed with the inner volume of a fluid-tight sealed enclosure. Thermally conductive fluids that fill one or more volumes of said sealed enclosure may be circulated away from said sealed enclosure to an external heat exchange mechanism. The inner volume of the sealed container contains one or more single phase or multi-phase thermally conductive fluids and may contain solid or sealed hollow structures that conform to or occupy space between said electronic devices. Pressure balancing mechanisms may be included to maintain suitable pressure of gaseous fluid in a volume of the sealed container. |
| US09560788B2 |
Heat dissipation device and control method thereof
A heat dissipation device including a driving module and a heat dissipation sheet is provided. The heat dissipation sheet has a connection portion and a swing portion and is connected to the driving module by the connection portion. When the driving module receives an input voltage to drive the connection portion, the connection portion drives the swing portion to swing back and forth so as to generate a heat dissipation airflow. |
| US09560787B2 |
Removable heat management for recharge coils
Devices, systems, and techniques for managing heat generated in coils for wireless energy transmission are disclosed. Inductive coupling between two coils (e.g., a primary coil and a secondary coil) may be used to recharge the power source of an implantable medical device. A phase change material may be thermally coupled to the primary coil to absorb heat generated during the inductive coupling and reduce temperature increases of the primary coil. In one example, the phase change material may be configured to absorb heat from an energy transfer coil. A housing may be configured to contain the phase change material and a coupling mechanism may be configured to removably attach the housing to the energy transfer coil. |
| US09560786B2 |
Slide rail assembly and slide rail assembly pair
A slide rail assembly comprising: a first slide rail (10, 10′) comprising a first, elongated web plate (11, 11′), a front surface facing toward a carried item (80) in use and a back surface facing away from the carried item in use; a second slide rail (20, 20′) nested within the first slide rail and being movable relative to the first slide rail in length direction. The upper edge of the first web plate is provided with a first, L-shaped upper folded panel (12, 12′) extending at an angle of 90 degrees with regard to the back surface of the first web plate, the lower edge thereof is provided with a horizontal supporting panel (13, 13′) for supporting the item which is bended at an angle of 90 degrees with regard to the front surface of the first web plate, and the first web plate is also provided with at least one first, L-shaped lower folded panel (14, 14′) opposite to the first upper folded panel and extending at an angle of 90 degrees with regard to the back surface of the first web plate, with the first upper folded panel and the at least one first lower folded panel collectively constituting a slide chute for supporting and guiding the second slide rail sliding therein. |
| US09560785B1 |
Mezzanine card system
The mezzanine card system and method of use thereof provides a baseboard having opposing sides, each side configured to receive a mezzanine card thereon. A plurality of mezzanine cards are provided having integrated circuits, such as Field Programmable Gate Arrays, fixedly attached thereon. The mezzanine cards of the system reduce reprogramming time from about 15 months to about six weeks. This drastic reduction in reprogramming time provides great advantages for circuitry systems, especially when these systems are used within battlefield and electronic warfare technology. The surfaces of the baseboard are an Electroless Nickel, Electroless Palladium, and Immersion Gold (ENEPIG) plated finish. |
| US09560782B2 |
Waterproof lockable door and pressure adjusted plug thereof
A waterproof lockable door and a pressure adjusted plug thereof are provided. An electronic device is formed with an opening having an annular wall. The waterproof lockable door includes a cover member having at least one through hole and a pressure adjusted plug including a waterproof member and at least one fastening unit. The waterproof member includes at least one fastening hole. The fastening unit is formed with a head portion and a rod portion, and the rod portion is received in the through hole and moves relative to the cover member, thereby driving the outer periphery of the waterproof member to be tightly adjacent to annular wall. Accordingly, the tolerance of the annular wall and the waterproof member and the air pressure inside an opening both force the waterproof member to move. |
| US09560780B2 |
Electronic device
A memory module has a memory mounted thereon. A support plate supports a circuit board. The circuit board is located facing and separated from the support plate. The circuit board has a first contact. A holder has a recessed housing portion and a first engagement portion. The housing portion is formed to internally house the memory module. The first engagement portion is provided to be inserted into an opening and engage with the opening. The holder is configured to be fixed to the support plate in an attitude in which the housing portion is open toward the circuit board, by the first engagement portion engaging with the opening. A lid is mounted on the holder by being inserted into the housing portion. A conductive portion is provided on the lid. The conductive portion is configured to electrically connect the memory module to the first contact of the circuit board. |
| US09560777B2 |
Door closer mechanism for hot/cold aisle air containment room
A hot/cold aisle air containment room includes a plurality of electronic equipment enclosures at least partially defining an interior aisle, a frame structure supporting one or more ceiling panels above the interior aisle, and a door assembly. The door assembly includes a sliding door and an unpowered door closer mechanism adapted to move the sliding door from an open state to a closed state, thereby providing controlled access to the interior aisle and minimizing intermixing of hot air and cold air between an environment external to the hot/cold aisle air containment room and an environment internal to the hot/cold aisle air containment room. |
| US09560776B2 |
Image display device
An image display device includes: a display to output an image; a frame to cover at least a partial upper portion of a rear surface of the display and form an appearance; and a back cover coupled to the frame to cover the rear surface of the display, wherein the back cover includes a first cover disposed in a horizontal direction and detachably coupled to the frame; a second cover coupled to the first cover and disposed to overlap with the first cover; and a fixing member disposed at an inner side of the first cover and the second cover and fixes the second cover to the first cover. |
| US09560775B2 |
Curved display apparatus
A display apparatus is provided. The display apparatus includes a display which is curved such that opposite lateral ends thereof protrude forward relative to a central portion thereof. A support frame having a lower end supported on a horizontal surface and allowing the display to be disposed inside thereof is provided; wherein the support frame is curved such that opposite lateral ends thereof protrude forward relative to the central portion thereof. |
| US09560772B2 |
Electric circuit configuration having an MID circuit carrier and a connecting interface connected to it
An electric circuit configuration having an MID circuit carrier and a connecting interface, the connecting interface being situated on a surface of the MID circuit carrier. The electric circuit configuration further includes at least one electrical contact pair having at least one connecting interface contact element and at least one MID contact element that is provided on the surface and is situated on the connecting interface contact element. The exemplary embodiments and/or exemplary methods of the present invention further relates to a contact element group having at least one electrical contact element for the electrical contacting of an MID circuit carrier, which is developed on a surface of an MID circuit carrier, is electrically connected to it, and extends away from the surface. The at least one contact element is connected to a line element of the MID circuit carrier. |
| US09560771B2 |
Ball grid array and land grid array having modified footprint
An apparatus includes a substrate having a surface and a plurality of solder balls arranged on the surface to form a ball grid array. A portion of the plurality of solder balls is arranged to have a pitch between adjacent solder balls. The adjacent solder balls having the pitch have a shape of a truncated sphere. At least one solder ball of the plurality of solder balls is included in a solder island on the surface having a shape that is different than the shape of the truncated sphere. |
| US09560767B2 |
Wiring boards and semiconductor modules including the same
A wiring board includes a metal core including a first surface and a second surface facing each other and a first portion and a second portion disposed on the first and second surfaces, respectively. The first and second portions each include a plurality of insulating layers and a plurality of wiring layers stacked in an alternating manner. At least one capacitor is disposed in at least one interior region. The at least one capacitor includes first and second electrodes. The at least one interior region exposes a portion of the metal core and a portion of at least one of the first and second portions adjacent to the metal core and at least one first via electrically connects one of the wiring layers of the first portion with the first and second electrodes. |
| US09560761B2 |
Curved display
Embodiment related to a curved display including a curved panel, a printed circuit board separated from the curved panel, and a plurality of flexible films electrically connecting the curved panel and the printed circuit board. The lengths of the flexible films is increased as the flexible films approach an edge of the curved panel. |
| US09560760B2 |
Reduction of resonance in connectors
Techniques for reducing resonance in contact fingers of a connector are described herein. An example of a device in accordance with the present techniques includes an add-in-card that includes a circuit board and an edge contact finger disposed on an outer surface of the circuit board. The add-in-card also includes a resonator disposed in an internal layer of the circuit board and coupled to the edge contact finger, wherein the resonator reduces a resonance in the edge contact finger. |
| US09560759B2 |
Power supply module, package for the power supply module, method of manufacturing the power supply module and wireless sensor module
A package includes a metal core substrate, a first insulation layer formed along a periphery of a first surface of the metal core substrate, the first surface of the metal core substrate being exposed at an inner side of the first insulation layer, a second insulation layer formed along at least a periphery of a second surface of the metal core substrate, a first through-electrode penetrating the second insulation layer at a first part of the periphery of the metal core substrate, and a second through-electrode penetrating the first insulation layer, the metal core substrate and the second insulation layer at a second part of the periphery of the metal core substrate, the second through-electrode being electrically insulated from the metal core substrate via an insulation member. |
| US09560758B2 |
Uniform impedance circuit board
A printed wiring board includes a first conductive layer, a second conductive layer arranged at a gap with respective to the first conductive layer, a third conductive layer, a first via conductor and a second via conductor, and a third signal wiring pattern. A first signal wiring pattern is arranged on the first conductive layer, a second signal wiring pattern is arranged on the second conductive layer, and a third signal wiring pattern that is arranged on the third conductive layer. The third conductive layer is arranged between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer via an insulating layer. The first via conductor and the second via conductor, which are arranged to be mutually adjacent, connect the first signal wiring pattern to the second signal wiring pattern. The third signal wiring pattern connects the first via conductor to the second via conductor. |
| US09560744B2 |
Component and method for producing a component
A component includes a substrate having at least one flexible substrate area which has at least one area reinforced by forming a material composite. The material composite includes at least a portion of the flexible substrate area. The component also includes a first microstructured or nanostructured element and a connecting mechanism configured to attach the first microstructured or nanostructured element to the flexible substrate area. A damping mass is configured to cover at least the first microstructured or nanostructured element and a portion of the substrate protruding over the material composite. The component is configured to provide a secure receptacle for the electronic element and to offer good vibration decoupling of the electronic element from vibrations of the component. |
| US09560739B2 |
Wiring board
To provide a wiring substrate which can prevent short circuit between connection terminals, and which realizes reduction of the pitch between the connection terminals. The wiring substrate of the present invention includes a layered structure including one or more insulation layers and one or more conductor layers, and the wiring substrate is characterized in that a plurality of connection terminals are formed on the layered structure so as to be separated from one another; a filling member is filled between the connection terminals; and each of the connection terminals has a side surface composed of a contact surface which is in contact with the filling member, and a spaced surface which is not in contact with the filling member and which is located above the contact surface and below the top surface of the filling member. |
| US09560738B2 |
Touch window
A light emitting device according to the embodiment includes touch window including: a substrate; and an electrode part on the substrate, wherein the electrode part includes: a first sub-pattern; an electrode layer on the first sub-pattern; and a second sub-pattern close to the first sub-pattern, and wherein a boundary area between the electrode layer and the first sub-pattern is larger than a boundary area between the substrate and the first sub-pattern. A light emitting device package according to the embodiment includes a touch window including: a substrate; and an electrode part on the substrate; wherein the electrode part includes: a first sub-pattern; an electrode layer on the first sub-pattern; and a second sub-pattern close to the first sub-pattern, and wherein a line width of the first sub-pattern is changed according to a height of the first sub-pattern. |
| US09560735B1 |
Planar graphene semi-cyclotrons
Various emitters and emitter systems are disclosed. For instance, in various embodiments, an emitter can comprise a substrate, an insulator bonded to the substrate, a graphene layer bonded to the insulator, and a first electrical contact and a second electrical contact. The first electrical contact can be bonded over a first portion of the graphene layer, and the second electrical contact can be bonded over a second portion of the graphene layer. The graphene layer electrically couples the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact and is configured to receive the application of a pulsed input voltage between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact and to radiate radio frequency (RF) energy. An emitter system can comprise a plurality of emitters, each disposed on a single integrated circuit. |
| US09560733B2 |
Nozzle throat for thermal processing and torch equipment
A nozzle assembly includes an upper portion defining an opening for receiving a gas and a longitudinally extending cylindrical body portion adjacent to the upper portion and defining a passageway for the gas. The nozzle assembly also includes a tip portion adjacent to the body portion, with the tip portion defining a throat channel. The throat channel includes a throat inlet region that focuses a flow of the gas. The throat inlet region is fluidly connected to the passageway via a throat inlet opening. The throat channel also includes an acceleration region that is disposed downstream of the throat inlet region and fluidly connected to the throat inlet region to compress the gas and accelerate the flow of the gas. The throat channel further includes an expansion region disposed downstream of the acceleration region and fluidly connected to the acceleration region to allow the gas to expand. |
| US09560732B2 |
High access consumables for a plasma arc cutting system
A nozzle for a plasma arc torch is provided. The nozzle includes a substantially hollow, elongated nozzle body capable of receiving an electrode, the body defining a longitudinal axis, a distal end, and a proximal end. The nozzle also includes a swirl sleeve attachable to an interior surface of the nozzle body, the swirl sleeve configured to impart a swirling motion to a gas introduced to the nozzle. The nozzle additionally includes a nozzle tip connected to the proximal end of the nozzle body, a nozzle shield, and an insulator configured to connect the nozzle tip and the nozzle shield to electrically insulate the nozzle shield and the nozzle tip from one another while transferring thermal energy therebetween. |
| US09560730B2 |
Transport system for an extreme ultraviolet light source
Free radicals that combine with debris that is created by converting a target mixture to plasma that emits EUV light are received at a first opening defined by a first end of a conduit, the conduit including a material that passes the free radicals and the conduit including a sidewall that extends away from the first opening and defines at least one other opening, the at least one other positioned to release the free radicals toward an element that accumulates the debris on a surface. The free radicals in the conduit are directed toward the at least one other opening. The free radicals are passed through the at least one other opening and to the surface of the element to remove the debris from the surface of the element without removing the element from the EUV light source. |
| US09560729B2 |
Grounding rope for a shaft grounding apparatus of a dynamo-electric machine
A grounding rope assembly for electrically grounding a rotatable conductive shaft of a dynamo-electric machine. The assembly includes a grounding rope member including a plurality of conductive wires extending along the length of the grounding rope member and one or more discrete fixation points intermediate the first and second ends of the grounding rope member. Two or more of the plurality of conductive wires are affixed together at each of the discrete fixation points. |
| US09560726B2 |
System and method for remote control of electrical appliance using reflected light
The invention addresses the problem of dependency of wireless control systems for electrical appliances on pre-existing control switches along with limited switching functionality. It relates to a system (1,50) for wirelessly controlling an electrical appliance (100). By providing the system with an input unit (5,25,55) comprising a user-operable command interface (9,19,49,59) and a control device (3,30) which is connectable to said electrical appliance, wherein said input unit is located remotely from said control device, and said control device is adapted to detect a light signal being reflected off said command interface, to allocate said light signal to a predetermined command and to output said command to the electrical appliance, it is possible to rely on light manipulation when being reflected, without need of connection to the electrical wiring present in a building. |
| US09560725B2 |
Illuminated sports system
The invention generally relates to an illuminated sports system. In certain embodiments, the system includes a device configured to be worn by a user that includes a first portion having a first illumination source and a second portion having first control circuitry configured to at least transmit or receive data associated with the device. The system also includes a movable piece of sports equipment including a second illumination source and second control circuitry configured to at least transmit or receive data associated with the movable piece of sports equipment. At least one of the first and second control circuitries is configured to sense when the user possesses the movable piece of sports equipment and modify an emission of at least one of the first and second illumination sources based on the user possessing the movable piece of sports equipment. |
| US09560724B2 |
Dual encoder
A dual encoder (07) has a first shaft (09) being mounted in a housing (16) so as to be rotatable, wherein a first locking mechanism, for locking different rotational positions of the first shaft (09), and at least one first rotation signal generator (26, 27), for generating a signal showing a switchover between two locking positions, are provided at the first shaft (09), and having a second shaft (10) being mounted in the housing (16) so as to be coaxially rotatable, wherein a second locking mechanism for locking different rotational positions of the second shaft (10) and at least one second rotation signal generator (28, 29) for generating a signal showing a switchover between two locking positions are provided at the second shaft (10), wherein both shafts (09, 10) include activation elements (11, 12). |
| US09560723B2 |
Systems and methods for self commissioning and locating lighting system
The present disclosure provides techniques for a self-commissioning and locating lighting system. The system includes a group of light fixtures, each emitting a unique optical data signal. A remote control device detects the unique optical data signal from the light fixtures when the light fixture is within a visual field of the remote control device. A central controller receives a signal from the remote control device, wherein the signal comprises data regarding the GPS location of the remote control device and the digital identities of the light fixture within the visual field of the remote control, wherein the signal further comprises a control command for operation of the light fixtures, and wherein the central controller sends a control signal to the light fixture implementing the control command. |
| US09560720B2 |
Emergency vehicle alert system
A method and system for the control and signaling of traffic signal lights by emergency vehicles in the vicinity. Emergency vehicles can be detected by traffic signal lights allowing the emergency vehicle to have a prioritized, rapid, unimpeded, and safe emergency vehicle transit. |
| US09560718B2 |
Dimmer with motion and light sensing
A dimming system includes an alternating current input, a reference crossing detector operable to detect when a signal derived from the alternating current input crosses a reference level, a ramp signal generator operable to generate a ramp signal with a changing voltage, wherein the ramp signal generator is operable to restart the ramp signal based on an output of the reference crossing detector, a switch operable to control a current derived from the alternating current input to a load output, a switch driver operable to control the switch based at least in part on the ramp signal, and a difference amplifier operable to generate a difference between the ramp signal and an input from a light sensor, wherein the switch driver is operable to control the switch based at least in part on the difference. |
| US09560715B2 |
Light source apparatus and display apparatus having a plurality of reflection unit each with a substantially N-sided pyramid shape and a detection unit
A light source apparatus comprises: a substrate; a light emission unit that is provided on the substrate; a plurality of reflection units configured to reflect light from the light emission unit; and a first detection unit that is provided on the substrate and detects the light from the light emission unit, wherein each of the reflection units has a substantially n-sided pyramid shape and is provided such that a bottom surface thereof is in parallel with the substrate, and the first detection unit is provided between a vertex of an n-sided polygon corresponding to the bottom surface of one of two of the reflection units adjacent to each other and a vertex of an n-sided polygon corresponding to the bottom surface of the other of two of the reflection units adjacent to each other. |
| US09560713B2 |
Color tunable light source module with brightness control
LED-based light source modules can incorporate color tunability and brightness control, allowing a user to select a desired color temperature and/or brightness and to change either or both dynamically. An emitter can include multiple independently addressable groups of LEDs, each emitting light of a different color. By controlling the relative operating current provided to each group, a desired color temperature can be achieved, and by controlling the absolute operating currents, the brightness of the output light can be controlled. Pulse width modulation (PWM) can be used to control the relative and absolute operating currents. Smooth, gradual transitions between brightness and/or color temperature settings in response to changes can be provided. |
| US09560711B2 |
Method and device for remote sensing and control of LED lights
A system and method of thermal management for an LED are provided. A method provided by the system includes (a) providing a forward drive current to power the LED, the forward drive current having a first LED operating current component; (b) detecting the first LED operating current component; (c) sensing a first thermal operating point of the LED; and (d) generating a temperature signal indicative of the first thermal operating point. The method also includes (e) determining a thermal operating range of the LED; (f) determining that the first thermal operating point of the LED is outside the thermal operating range of the LED; and (g) generating a first control setting configured to cause the LED to be driven at a second operating point, the second thermal operating point within the thermal operating range. |
| US09560710B2 |
Light unit for emitting light and method for driving a light unit
Lighting unit including a plurality of lighting devices, comprising: a first and a second current path each comprising at least one lighting device, the second current path is adapted to conduct while the first current path is adapted to not conduct when the total current is below a first threshold current, a current limiter for limiting the current in the second current path to shape a plateau in the current in the second current path when the total current is above the first threshold current; and a third current path comprising at least one lighting device, connected in parallel to the first and second current path, and comprises a third current regulator for controlling a current in the third current path; and a third control unit adapted to control the third current regulator based on a weighted sum of the current in the second and the first current path. |
| US09560708B2 |
Solid state lighting switches and fixtures providing dimming and color control
A solid state lighting switch can include a first input control that can be configured to adjust a dimming indication or color indication for a solid state lighting fixture that is configured for coupling to the solid state lighting switch. A selective linking mechanism can be configured to activate a linked mode of operation of the switch to link the dimming indication to the color indication or to activate an unlinked mode of operation of the switch to unlink the dimming indication from the color indication. |
| US09560706B2 |
Lightening apparatus having matrix-arranged light-emitting elements
A lightening apparatus includes light-emitting elements arranged in a matrix. One of the light-emitting elements is located at each intersection between at least two first reference voltage lines and “n” first drive voltage lines. A first reference voltage driver time-divisionally switches the first reference voltage lines. A first drive voltage driver supplies first luminous drive voltages to the first drive voltage lines. One of the light-emitting elements is located at each intersection between at least one second reference voltage line and “n” second drive voltage lines. A second reference voltage driver switches the second reference voltage line. A second drive voltage driver supplies second luminous drive voltages to the second drive voltage lines. |
| US09560704B2 |
LED driving device and LED lighting apparatus
The present invention supplies desired DC output power to a first LED load and a second LED load whose color temperature is different from that of the first LED load, includes a switching element, ripple current reducers series-connected to the respective LED loads and for reducing current ripples flowing through the LED loads, and a control circuit for controlling the DC output power so that it has a predetermined value, by performing on-off control of the switching element based on a feedback voltage at a connecting point between each of the LED loads and a corresponding one of the ripple current reducers. Each ripple current reducer has feedback-type constant current control circuits for performing control for varying impedance, and the present invention also includes color controllers for performing color control by maintaining a total LED current value of the first and second LED loads at a certain value. |
| US09560700B2 |
Illumination lamp and illumination device configured for rapid-start method
An illumination lamp includes: an input portion connectable to any one of power supply portions for two or more starting methods including a rapid-start method; a voltage detection circuit configured to detect a voltage applied from a power supply portion; and a control portion including at least one first voltage supply portion configured to supply a voltage suitably for the rapid-start method to a semiconductor light-emitting device, and at least one second voltage supply portion configured to supply a voltage suitably for the other fluorescent-lamp starting method to the semiconductor light-emitting device. The control portion causes, if the voltage is detected by the voltage detection circuit, the first voltage supply portion to supply a voltage to the semiconductor light-emitting device, but causing, if the voltage is not detected by the voltage detection circuit, the second voltage supply portion to supply a voltage to the semiconductor light-emitting device. |
| US09560698B2 |
Apparatus and methods for cartridge case annealing
In one embodiment, a case transfer apparatus includes a base, a feeding device having a first end tapering to a second end that is coupled to the base, a motor disposed on the base, a rotatable feed wheel assembly disposed on the base and coupled to the motor, the rotatable feed wheel assembly adapted to receive at least one case via gravitational force from a feeding device, and a roller plate coupled to the motor and disposed adjacent the rotatable feed wheel assembly within a case receiving region where the at least one case is rotated and heated. |
| US09560693B2 |
Methods and apparatus for access data recovery from a malfunctioning device
Methods and apparatus for recovering access data from a malfunctioning device. In one embodiment, trained service personnel are provided a specialized apparatus for retrieving access data from a malfunctioning device. For example, in the instance the device comprises a cellular device having an unrecoverable hardware failure, trained service personnel can connect to the secure element and retrieve the one or more electronic Subscriber Identity Modules (eSIMs) stored thereon. The eSIMs are then “reclaimed” and reprogrammed/distributed to a new device. In one implementation, security and integrity measures are taken to protect and control distribution of sensitive access data. |
| US09560690B2 |
Interrupted handoff reconnection for licensed shared access
A proposed 3GPP LTE protocol enhancement disclosed herein realizes the full benefit of proposed dynamic frequency sharing systems by enhancing current handoff signaling in a 3GPP LTE standard for optimized UE reconnection during interrupted handoff from Licensed Shared Access (LSA) frequency bands to Primary Long Term Evolution (LTE) frequency bands during loss of LSA spectrum resources. A User Equipment (UE) comprises a transceiver configured to determine a connection state during a loss of LSA frequency spectrum, transmit a reconnection request message when the UE is in a state of established connection or a connection request message when the UE is in an idle state, the request message carrying a loss of LSA frequency band cause, optimally connect according to the loss of LSA frequency band cause, to a primary LTE frequency band, and transmit a connection or reconnection complete message. |
| US09560683B1 |
Displaying visual representation of voice messages
Messages, such as voice messages, are received at a server and processed to generate extracted data that includes text from the message, envelope information, or contact information. The extracted data is transmitted to a device that displays a visual representation that includes some of the extracted data. The visual representation (e.g., an icon) enables the user to visually see what is in a voice message. By selecting a particular visual representation, the corresponding message can be retrieved from the message server and played at the device. In some instances, the message server also transmits an initial segment to the device that can be played by the device as well. |
| US09560681B2 |
Method and device for establishing a communication
A method and a device establish a communication initiated by a terminal sending a communication request to a shared public identity associated with at least two destination terminals. The terminal sending the request receives at least one provisional response to the communication request, originating from one of the two destination terminals. From the provisional response received, the terminal sending the request obtains an address identifying the destination terminal that sent the provisional response received. The terminal sending the request sends a message to find out the capacities of a terminal to said destination terminal using the address obtained and receives in return a response message to the message to find out the capacities of a terminal originating from the destination terminal; the response message includes the capacities supported by the destination terminal. The terminal sending the request can thus display information representative of the capacities supported by the destination terminal. |
| US09560676B2 |
Cooperative components in a wireless feeder network
A wireless feeder network comprises feeder base stations coupled to the communications network and feeder terminals coupled to associated access base stations of the access network. A group of wireless network components form elements of a feeder cluster and the elements of the feeder cluster are connected by an additional communications resource configured to be operated in parallel with the wireless resource of the wireless feeder network. Both a primary and secondary element of the feeder cluster seek to decode at least one resource block allocated to the primary element for reception of data. Information derived from the secondary decoded data is transmitted from the secondary element to the primary element via the additional communications resource. The primary element then performs a revised decoding process additionally using the information received from said secondary element to improve its own decode probability. |
| US09560675B2 |
Interference measurement in heterogeneous networks
In a heterogeneous network based on LTE, the random access, RA, procedure triggered in a macrocell produces transmissions from a UE (20) on the physical random access channel, PRACH, which a picocell eNB (12) can attempt to make measurements of for interference coordination purposes over the X2 interface between the macro eNB (10) and the pico eNB (12). By reconfiguring the UE's behavior during principally the contention-free RA procedure, its transmissions on PRACH are made different to the default such as to be suitable for heterogeneous network interference measurements. This is done by assigning new meanings to certain of the characteristic parameters provided by the macro eNB (10) to the UE (20), such as the RA preamble it uses and the C-RNTI it is assigned during the procedure. Interpreting these new meanings allows the UE (20) to temporarily re-configure its PRACH transmissions so as to be useful to the pico eNB's (12) interference measurement needs without disrupting the UE's existing configuration within the macrocell, and without the UE needing to know the purpose of its transmissions. |
| US09560671B2 |
Method and base station for transmitting scheduling information
The present disclosure provides a method and base station for transmitting scheduling information. The method comprises: determining that a downlink subframe corresponding to the uplink subframe according to a first scheduling timing corresponding to a first Time Division Duplex (TDD) uplink and downlink configuration scheme of a plurality of TDD uplink and downlink configuration schemes is unavailable for transmitting the scheduling information; obtaining a first equivalent TDD uplink and downlink configuration scheme by treating one or more downlink subframes, including the downlink subframe, in a radio frame as uplink subframes; selecting a downlink subframe corresponding to the uplink subframe according to a second scheduling timing corresponding to a second TDD uplink and downlink configuration scheme of the plurality of TDD uplink and downlink configuration schemes, wherein a set of downlink subframes specified in the second TDD uplink and downlink configuration scheme is a subset of a set of downlink subframes specified in the first equivalent TDD uplink and downlink configuration scheme; and transmitting the scheduling information in the selected downlink subframe. |
| US09560669B2 |
Method and devices for specifying the quality of service in a transmission of data packets
A method for specifying the quality of service in a transmission of data packets between a service entity (AF1) and a user equipment over a mobile network is described. The mobile network comprises a core network node (SGSN1) and an access node (NB1, RNC1) which are adapted to control the handling of data packets sent between the service entity (AF1) and the user equipment (UE1). A plurality of service classes relating to the quality of service are preconfigured and a selected service class is selected from said plurality for the transmission. A first transmission context (PDP1) is established between the core network node and the user equipment (UE1), said first transmission context being associated with a first set of attributes for defining a first quality of service for the exchange of the data packets with the user equipment in the transmission. Furthermore, a second transmission context (RAB1, RB1) is established between the access node (NB1, RNC1) and the user equipment (UE1), said second transmission context being associated with a second set of attributes for defining a second quality of service for the exchange of the data packets with the user equipment in the transmission. The selected service class determines the first set of attributes by a first unique mapping function performed in the core network node and the selected service class determines the second set of attributes by a second unique mapping function performed in the access node. A corresponding mobile network, control device and computer program are also described. |
| US09560666B1 |
Method and system for carrier frequency prioritization based on operational characteristics of wireless communication devices
As disclosed, while a wireless communication device (WCD) is idling on a particular carrier frequency of a base station, the base station may receive a message broadcast by that base station, the message specifying multiple relative sets of priority levels defined for a set of carrier frequencies and correlating each of the multiple relative sets of priority levels with respective different WCD operational characteristics. In particular, the message may specify a first correlation of one relative set of priority levels with one WCD operational characteristic and includes a second correlation of a different relative set of priority levels with a different WCD operational characteristic. The WCD may select one of the relative sets of priority levels responsive to the WCD having a WCD operational characteristic that the message correlates with the selected relative set of priority levels. The WCD may then apply the selected relative set of priority levels. |
| US09560662B2 |
Methods and network nodes for configuring almost blank subframe transmission patterns and corresponding measurement patterns for reducing intercell interference in an heterogeneous cellular radio communication system
A method and a network node (110, 120, 140) for enabling configuration of at least two patterns for a cell (C0) are provided. The patterns are transmission patterns or measurement patterns. The network node (110, 120, 140) obtains (402) the at least two patterns. Each of the at least two patterns is associated with information about a respective restricted area (A1, A2) such that each pattern is used when a user equipment (130) served by the cell (C0) is located in the respective restricted area. Each respective restricted area (A1, A2) is smaller than an entire area of the cell (C0). Moreover, a method and a user equipment (130) for configuring measurements are provided. The user equipment (130) is served by a cell (C0, C1, C2) of a radio base station (110, 120, 140). The user equipment (130) receives at feast two measurement patterns from the radio base station. Each measurement pattern is associated with a respective restricted area. Each respective restricted area is smaller than an entire area of the cell. The user equipment (130) obtains information about the respective restricted area. |
| US09560660B1 |
Method and system of managing an allocation of resources
Disclosed is a method and system of managing an allocation of resources in a wireless communication system. According to the disclosure, a base station may receive or otherwise determine an indication of radio frequency (RF) conditions being perceived by a given user equipment device (UE). Based on that indication, the base station may make a decision of whether to use a first resource limitation or a second resource limitation for data transmissions to the given UE, where the second resource limitation generally allows for a lesser extent of resources to be allocated than the first resource limitation in weaker RF conditions. For instance, the base station may decide to use a bit-rate limitation for threshold strong RF conditions and a resource-block limitation for threshold weak RF conditions. Thereafter, the base station may allocate resources for a data transmission to the given UE in accordance with the decision. |
| US09560658B2 |
Method for transmission of backhaul data in wireless 238communication systems
A wireless communication system using radio resources for transmission of backhaul data between one or more mobile stations and at least one network control node, a first backhaul transmission link (L_1) being used for transmission of backhaul data and at least one second backhaul transmission link (L_2) being used for transmission of backhaul data. The first backhaul transmission link (L_1) operates as a main backhaul transmission link and the second backhaul transmission link (L_2) operates as an auxiliary backhaul transmission link, and the second backhaul transmission link (L_2) uses at least a part of the radio resources for transmission of backhaul data when in operation. |
| US09560645B2 |
UE, a secondary ENB and a master ENB and respective method performed thereby for providing system information of a communication system to the UE
A UE, a MeNB, a SeNB and respective methods performed thereby are provided. The UE, the MeNB, and the SeNB are operable in a wireless communication system, the wireless communication system being adapted to provide for dual connectivity between the SeNB and a UE, and between the UE and a MeNB. The method is performed for providing system information of the wireless communication system to the UE and for the UE to acquire the system information. The method performed by the UE comprises receiving (110), from the SeNB, a MIB of a cell of the SeNB; and acquiring (120) a System Frame Number, SFN, from the MIB. |
| US09560638B2 |
Short physical-layer control frames
A method is provided for transmitting a control frame from a emitting entity to a receiving entity. The control frame includes what is called a “first layer” header field intended to convey information relating to a first layer. The method includes a modulation step employing a first modulation technique, and, before the modulation step, a step of inserting information relating to a second layer into the first layer header field. |
| US09560636B2 |
Wireless communications system and method
A wireless communications system includes a base station, a plurality of intermediate devices, and a terminal device. Downlink communications may be provided directly from the base station to the terminal device, including control signals which instruct the terminal device where to send uplink data. This enables the base station to directly control scheduling of uplink communications, and in particular to define an uplink route from the terminal device to the base station via one or more intermediate devices. Power is conserved at the terminal device on the uplink because a lower power transmission can be used which although insufficient to reach the base station can reach the intermediate device. The terminal device is not required to determine the uplink path itself and therefore does not require complex, expensive, and power consuming control logic. |
| US09560635B2 |
Apparatus and method to reduce interference between frequency-division duplex and time-division duplex signals in a communication system
An apparatus, method and system to reduce interference between frequency-division duplex and time-division duplex signals in a communication system. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a processor (520) and memory (550) including computer program code. The memory (550) and the computer program code are configured to, with the processor (520), cause the apparatus to allocate a time-division duplex carrier for a frequency-division duplex downlink signal for communication with a communication element, and employ the time-division duplex carrier with a truncated time duration for the frequency-division duplex downlink signal. |
| US09560631B2 |
System and method for alerting a user on an external device of notifications or alerts originating from a network-connected device
Users are experiencing an increasing number of alerts and notifications on their mobile devices. When it is inconvenient or not possible to view the network-connected device, an accessory can be used to save time and avoid missing notifications. A system comprising a network-connected device and an accessory are provided to address these problems. The accessory is capable of notifying the user of alerts from the network-connected device, allowing the user to quickly be advised of alerts without needing to first interact with the network-connected device. The system includes a method to selectively filter alerts so as to avoid unnecessarily interrupting the user in cases where the network device is inaccessible. The system is also capable of pushing new interface designs and themes from the network device to the accessory to alter the appearance and configuration of its display. |
| US09560630B2 |
Devices for reduced overhead paging
A method for reduced overhead paging by an access point is described. The method includes assigning at least one paging identifier to at least one station. The method also includes partitioning a paging identifier space into paging identifier sets. The method further includes generating a paging message based on at least one of the paging identifier sets and the at least one paging identifier. The method additionally includes sending the paging message. |
| US09560629B2 |
System and method for alerting a user on an external device of notifications or alerts originating from a network-connected device
Users are experiencing an increasing number of alerts and notifications on their mobile devices. When it is inconvenient or not possible to view the network-connected device, an accessory can be used to save time and avoid missing notifications. A system comprising a network-connected device and an accessory are provided to address these problems. The accessory is capable of notifying the user of alerts from the network-connected device, allowing the user to quickly be advised of alerts without needing to first interact with the network-connected device. The system includes a method to selectively filter alerts so as to avoid unnecessarily interrupting the user in cases where the network device is inaccessible. The system is also capable of pushing new interface designs and themes from the network device to the accessory to alter the appearance and configuration of its display. |
| US09560627B2 |
Assistance data for use in determining a position of a mobile device
A method for assisting a mobile device to perform positioning measurements on positioning signals periodically transmitted by at least some of a plurality of cells in a wireless communication network includes receiving cell information. The cell information is measured or otherwise obtained by the mobile device and includes measurements/data pertaining to one or more of the plurality of cells in the wireless communication network. The method includes generating assistance data to include an assigned frequency channel number for use by the mobile device for performing the positioning measurements based on the received cell information. The assistance data is then sent to the mobile device. |
| US09560624B2 |
Method and apparatus for configuring and locating a home base station
Techniques for configuring a Home evolved Node B (HeNB) in a location server and positioning the HeNB are disclosed. In one aspect, location for a HeNB is supported based on LTE Positioning Protocol (LPP) messages. The HeNB communicates LPP messages with a location server. These LPP messages are terminated at the HeNB instead of a UE. At least one location transaction for the HeNB can be performed to configure in the location server and/or locate the HeNB based on the LPP messages. In another aspect, location for a HeNB is supported based on an embedded UE in the HeNB. The HeNB establishes a location session with a location server based on an embedded UE ID, which is assigned to the HeNB and recognized by the location server as being for a HeNB instead of a UE. At least one location transaction for the HeNB is performed during the location session. |
| US09560622B2 |
Indoor positioning in the presence of dynamic transmission power control access points
A position fix for a mobile platform is determined using RSSI values for wireless signals received from access points (APs), at least one of which has dynamic transmission power control. The transmission power data for the APs is received from an entity separate from the APs, e.g., a central entity or a positioning assistance server. The RSSI values for wireless signals received from the APs are acquired, as is an RSSI heatmap. Using the transmission power data, the RSSI values and the RSSI heatmap, the position fix for the mobile platform is determined. The position fix may be determined by the mobile platform or a positioning assistance server. Additionally, a server may receive transmission power data for APs and may provide to a mobile platform RSSI heatmap information based on the transmission power data. The RSSI heatmap information may be, e.g., the transmission power data or a RSSI heatmap. |
| US09560618B2 |
System and method for providing social network service and for setting relationship between users
Provided is a system for providing social network service (SNS) and a method for setting relationship between users of mobile terminals. The system may include a reception unit to receive location information on a user terminal allowing the location information to be shared in response to a friend request from the user terminal, a user terminal identification unit to identify at least one other user terminal present within a preset distance based on the location information on the user terminal and allows location information to be shared, a user information transmission unit to identify and send user information on the other user terminal to the user terminal, and a relationship setting unit to set a relationship between users of the user terminal and the other user terminal when the user information on the other user terminal is selected in the user terminal. |
| US09560617B2 |
Wireless network access method and apparatus, terminal, and server
A wireless network access method includes: sending, by a first terminal, a wireless network access request to a server, the wireless network access request carrying identification information of the first terminal and property information of a to-be-accessed wireless network; generating, by the server according to the wireless network access request, an image verification code and returning the image verification code to the first terminal for display; scanning, by a second terminal, the image verification code displayed by the first terminal, generating access authentication information, and sending the information to the server; and performing, by the server, wireless network access authentication according to the access authentication information, and connecting the first terminal and the second terminal to the wireless network after the authentication succeeds. |
| US09560616B2 |
Method and device for determining synchronous cell
Embodiments of the invention relate to the field of wireless communications and particularly to a method of and apparatus for determining a synchronous cell so as to determine a synchronous cell of an extension carrier so that the extension carrier is available between the network and a user equipment. The method of determining a synchronous cell according to the invention includes: a network-side apparatus determining an extension carrier to be configured for a user equipment; and the network-side apparatus determining a synchronous cell of the extension carrier upon determining that the extension carrier is a synchronous extension carrier. The synchronous cell of the extension carrier can be determined so that the extension carrier is available between the network side and a user equipment to thereby improve the performance of the system. |
| US09560614B2 |
Direct control signaling in a wireless communication system
A first wireless communication device (14-1) belongs to a first (12-1) of multiple groups (12) of wireless communication devices (14). Devices (14) in any given group (12) are synchronized to the same timing reference and devices (14) in different groups (12) are not synchronized to the same timing reference. The first device (14-1) receives a message that indicates, for each of one or more of the groups (12), a range of possible values for misalignment between the timing reference of that group (12) and a common timing reference. The range accounts for uncertainty in that misalignment. The first device (14-1) determines, based on the one or more ranges, intervals of times during which direct control signaling is expected to be received at the first device (14-1) from one or more devices (14) in one or more other groups (12-2, 12-3). The first device (14-1) then adjusts intervals of times during which it is configured to operate in an awake state to narrowly encompass the intervals of times during which the direct control signaling is expected to be received. |
| US09560607B2 |
Method and apparatus for radio link synchronization and power control in CELL—FACH and idle mode
A method and apparatus for radio link synchronization and power control in CELL_FACH state and idle mode are disclosed. A wireless transmit/receive unit (WTRU) transmits a random access channel (RACH) preamble and receives an acquisition indicator acknowledging the RACH preamble via an acquisition indicator channel (AICH) and an index to an enhanced dedicated channel (E-DCH) resource. The WTRU determines a start of an E-DCH frame. An F-DPCH timing offset is defined with respect to one of the RACH access slot and an AICH access slot carrying the acquisition indicator. A relative F-DPCH timing offset may be signaled to the WTRU and the WTRU may determine a start of an E-DCH frame based on the relative F-DPCH timing offset and timing of an AICH access slot including the acquisition indicator. The WTRU may transmit a dedicated physical control channel (DPCCH) power control preamble before starting an E-DCH transmission. |
| US09560606B2 |
Wireless communication system, mobile station, base station and wireless communication method
In a wireless communication system capable of wireless communication by using multiple frequency bands at the same time, a mobile station includes an uplink transmitting unit, which transmits allowable power difference between frequency bands and limitation node information indicating an object of power limitation in transmission power control of the mobile station to a base station, and a transmission-power control unit, which controls transmission power on the basis of a TPC command received from the base station, and the base station includes a TPC-command generating unit, which generates a TPC command on the basis of the allowable power difference between frequency bands and the limitation mode information, and a transmitting unit, which transmits the TPC command to the mobile station. |
| US09560605B2 |
Method for configuring downlink transmission power through RRH in cloud LAN environment
Disclosed are a BBU power configuring method and a BBU which determine required power which is requested by a BBU to an RRH to transmit a downlink signal to a terminal based on RRH power headroom information in a cloud LAN environment in which the RRH and the BBU are separated and transmit a power allocation change request message for making a request for changing transmission power of other BBUs connected to the RRH to the other BBUs. |
| US09560604B2 |
Method for calculating and reporting power headroom and device therefor
The present invention relates to a wireless communication system. More specifically, the present invention relates to a method and a device for power headroom reporting in the wireless communication system, the method comprising: determining a first weight factor for the first BS and a second weigh factor for the second BS if a sum of a power headroom (PH) for the first BS or a PH for the second BS is more than a PH of activated cells of the UE; reducing a size of the PH for the first BS by using the first weight factor; and reducing a size of PH for the second BS by using the second weight factor. |
| US09560602B2 |
Error rate control apparatus
A wireless communication system comprising a transmitter configured to transmit a data signal and a control signal to the same mobile station and a control unit configured to regulate transmission power of the control signal in accordance with a reception status of the control signal in the mobile station. |
| US09560599B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling uplink power of user equipment in carrier aggregation scenario
The present invention provides a method and an apparatus for controlling uplink power of a user equipment, where the method includes: separately acquiring first maximum transmit power of the user equipment corresponding to a first subframe and second maximum transmit power of the user equipment corresponding to a second subframe; and when the first maximum transmit power and the second maximum transmit power are different, using a minimum value of the first maximum transmit power and the second maximum transmit power as first configured maximum transmit power, and performing power control over transmit power of multiple carriers in an overlap region according to the first configured maximum transmit power, so that total transmit power of the multiple carriers in the overlap region after the power control is lower than or equal to the minimum value of the first maximum transmit power and the second maximum transmit power. |
| US09560596B2 |
Adaptive biasing to meet stringent harmonic requirements
This disclosure relates to adaptively reducing the peak power of harmonic distortions as a function of the operating conditions for transmission communications. Specifically, the bias of the amplifier is adaptively increased to reduce harmonic distortions when a small fraction of the resource blocks are active. |
| US09560593B2 |
Merging of independent basic service set (IBSS) power save (PS) enabled networks
Methods, systems, and devices are described for merging two or more power save enabled independent basic service set (IBSS) networks. In one example, a method includes receiving, at a station of a first IBSS network, a first beacon from a second IBSS network, wherein the first beacon identifies a timing synchronization function (TSF) of the second IBSS network. The method may further include transmitting, by the station, a second beacon at a next target beacon transmission time (TBTT) of the first IBSS network based on a comparison of the TSF of the second IBSS network with a TSF stored by the station, wherein the second beacon identifies a TSF of the second IBSS network. |
| US09560589B2 |
Method and apparatus for accessing channels in wireless LAN system
The present invention relates to a wireless communication system, and more specifically, to a method and apparatus for accessing channels in a wireless LAN system. The method for accessing channels in a station (STA) of the wireless communication system according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises the steps of transmitting a first frame of a channel access request to an access point (AP); and receiving, from the AP, a second frame related to whether access to the channel is allowed in response to the first frame, wherein the second frame can include a value for a channel access start offset with respect to the STA. |
| US09560586B2 |
Communication method in wireless local area network system
A communication method performed by a target station in a WLAN system is provided. The method includes receiving a relayed TIM message from a relay station, the TIM message comprising a relayed TIM field indicating whether there is buffered traffic intended to be transmitted from an AP to the target station, determining whether there is the buffered traffic based on the relayed TIM field, receiving a data frame related to the buffered traffic, if the relayed TIM field indicates that there is the buffered traffic, and switching to a doze state, if the relayed TIM field indicates that there is no buffered traffic. The relayed TIM field is determined based on a TIM element transmitted from the AP to the relay station. The TIM element is transmitted in a first period, and the relayed TIM message is transmitted in a second period. |
| US09560582B2 |
Smart connection manager
A telecommunication device configured to perform at least one of adjusting a network polling frequency, prompting a user to select one of a plurality of networks, automatically connecting to one of the networks, or automatically disconnecting from one of the networks is described herein. The telecommunication device performs the adjusting, prompting, or connecting based at least on received device data or network data that is associated with the networks. |
| US09560580B2 |
Method of managing power of RF circuits and wireless communication device utilizing the same
A method of locating a mobile device, and a mobile device utilizing the same are provided. The method, adopted by a wireless communication device, includes: searching for a plurality of signal-source types; in response to the searching, determining whether a first type of signal source is available; setting a search configuration based on availability of the first type of signal source; and searching again for the plurality of signal-source types according to the search configuration. |
| US09560579B2 |
Wireless communication roaming with coexisting radio access technologies
Methods, systems, and devices are described for wireless communications. More particularly, the described features relate to techniques for adaptively or dynamically setting a roaming threshold for a wireless communication link over a first RAT based at least in part on an aspect of a coexisting wireless communication link over a second RAT. In one example, a mobile device may have coexisting wireless communication links over WLAN and BT. In such case, a WLAN roaming threshold may be set based at least in part on a type of BT device employed. |
| US09560578B2 |
Mobile station
To transmit a “CELL UPDATE message” in a radio access network not supporting “Additional Dynamic Transport Format Information for CCCH,” a mobile station UE according to the present invention includes a transmitting unit 13 configured to transmit a “CELL UPDATE message” to a radio access network in a “CELL UPDATE procedure,” and the transmitting unit 13 includes a predetermined information element in the “CELL UPDATE message” only when the radio access network supports the “Additional Dynamic Transport Format Information for CCCH.” |
| US09560575B1 |
Vehicular safety system
A vehicular safety system includes a vehicle that has a power outlet. An electronic device is provided and the electronic device may be in communication with an extrinsic communication network. A locking unit is removably positioned within the power outlet such that the locking unit determines when the vehicle is turned on. The locking unit is in communication with the electronic device such that the locking unit disables the electronic device when the vehicle is turned on while the electronic device is within the vehicle. |
| US09560573B2 |
Relay link communication
A link based on one radio access technology (RAT) is used to supplement the operation of another RAT. For example, in a user equipment (UE) device that can access both long term evolution (LTE) and millimeter wave (mmW) networks, the UE may use an LTE network to relay information between the UE and the mmW network. |
| US09560565B2 |
Connection handover method based on near field communication, and corresponding apparatus
The present invention discloses a connection handover method for near field communication, and further disclose a connection handover apparatus. The method includes: acquiring, by a zeroth terminal, idle connection resource information of the zeroth terminal; receiving a request message that is sent by a first terminal and is used for initiating a connection handover process or used for notifying the zeroth terminal that a connection handover process needs to be performed; and determining, according to the request message, that the following determining needs to be performed: determining, according to the idle connection resource information of the zeroth terminal, whether the zeroth terminal has an idle connection resource, if yes, sending a response message to the first terminal, so as to feed back connection configuration information of the zeroth terminal to the first terminal, and if not, skipping feeding back connection configuration information of the zeroth terminal to the first terminal. |
| US09560564B2 |
Assisting return to a first network from a second network after performance of a circuit switched fallback procedure
A method for assisting a wireless communication device to return to a first network from a second network is provided. The method can include the wireless communication device participating in a CSFB procedure to transition from the first network to the second network for servicing of a voice call; receiving a connection release from the second network after termination of the voice call; initiating a reselection procedure to reselect to the first network; determining presence of packet switched data ready for transmission from the wireless communication device before completion of the reselection procedure; holding the packet switched data at the wireless communication device at least until expiry of a reselection timer initiated during the reselection procedure; reselecting to the first network after expiry of the reselection timer; and initiating transmission of the packet switched data on the first network after completing reselection to the first network. |
| US09560558B2 |
Reduced handover latency for licensed shared access
A proposed 3GPP LTE protocol enhancement disclosed herein enables an Evolved Node B (eNB) to perform a mass handoff of User Equipment from Licensed Shared Access (LSA) band spectrum to LTE Primary band spectrum without creating an over-the-air signaling surge by preventing individual handover messaging exchanges between the eNB and UEs affected by loss of LSA frequency band. A User Equipment (UE) comprises a transceiver configured to receive a broadcast paging message in a Licensed Shared Access (LSA) frequency band instructing the UE to move to a primary Long Term Evolution (LTE) frequency band from the LSA frequency band, receive system information comprising primary LTE frequency band information, extract handover parameters from the received system information for moving to the primary LTE frequency band, stop communicating on the LSA frequency band and synchronize communications with an Evolved Node B (eNB) associated with the primary LTE frequency band. |
| US09560557B2 |
Mobility management of OSI connections between cell towers
A processor-implemented method, apparatus, and/or computer program product move Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) layer 4 connections between wirelessly-connected user equipment to a series of cell-towers, wherein an OSI layer 4 connection is extracted out of the underlying cellular protocols at the series of cell-towers. A detection is made that user equipment, which has a broken-out layer 4 connection, has moved from a first cell-tower to a second cell-tower. Traffic for an existing layer 4 connection from the user equipment is tunnelled between the first cell-tower and the second cell-tower. In response to a predetermined trigger event occurring, an ongoing bidirectional flow of data packets is migrated from the user equipment over to layer 4 connections maintained at the second cell-tower. Furthermore, OSI layer 4 connections for all server ports other than the proxied active layer 4 connections that are proxied in the web cache are byte cached. |
| US09560553B2 |
Systems and methods for mobile stations to identify radio access technologies
A mobile station capable of being served via a first radio access technology (RAT) and a second RAT. The mobile station includes a component configured to receive a permission to identify a cell of the first RAT in absence of a first radio access type neighbor cell list for a serving cell of the second RAT. The mobile station also includes a component configured to identify a cell of the first RAT after receiving the permission. |
| US09560552B2 |
Enhancement to multiple handover preparation
A communication system includes a plurality of base stations and a user equipment, wherein the communication link is established between the user equipment and a source base station of the plurality of base stations. A method includes: selecting a target cell and a re-establishment cell of at least one candidate handover base station of the plurality on the basis of a measurement report, the measurement report comprising measurements of attributes of cells of the plurality of base stations for a handover; initiating a handover preparation by transmitting a request from the source base station to the at least one candidate handover base station, wherein the request indicates the target cell and the re-establishment cell; carrying out admission control on the target cell and on the re-establishment cell; initiating the handover by transmitting a handover request acknowledgement from the at least one candidate handover base station to the source base station. |
| US09560551B2 |
Quality of service packet scheduler design
Systems, methods, devices, and processors are described for quality of service (QoS) packet scheduling in satellite communications systems. A packet received at the QoS packet scheduler may be assigned a virtual departure time utilizing novel self-clocked fair queuing techniques. The virtual departure time for a packet assigned to a queue may depend on a different weight assigned to the queues. Queues may be treated as low latency queues in some cases and may be provided with committed information rates in other cases. Low latency queues may be assigned weights equal to infinity, or the reciprocal of the weight equal to zero. Queues with committed information rates may assign different weights to packets depending on whether the rate that packets are received exceeds the committed information rate. Packets may then be scheduled based on their virtual departure time order. |
| US09560546B2 |
Enhanced multicarrier transmission using orthogonal subcarriers
A wireless device transmits, during a first period, a first plurality of voice packets of a first talking period on a first plurality of subcarriers of a first carrier. The wireless device transmits, during a second period, a second plurality of voice packets of a second talking period on a second plurality of subcarriers of a second carrier. The wireless device transmits, in the first period and the second period, data traffic packets on a third plurality of subcarriers. There is at least one guard band between at least two subcarriers in the third plurality of subcarriers. |
| US09560543B2 |
Method for optimizing signalling load in a cellular communication network
The invention relates to a cellular communication network serving mobile terminals or devices and how to optimize the switching between Dual Cell High-Speed Uplink Packet Access [DC-HSUPA] and Single Cell High-Speed Uplink Packet Access [SC-HSUPA] and vice versa. This invention makes the reconfiguration to dual cell or single cell HSUPA depending on the UE power, available capacity in the cells, sufficient data from UE, and UE battery consumption. |
| US09560535B2 |
Data stream generation and transmission system and method therefor
A data stream generation and transmission system is provided. The system includes a cable, a data stream generation device, and a wireless transmission device connected to the data stream generation device through the cable. The data stream generation device includes a storage component and a data stream generation module. The storage component stores wireless network configuration data. The data stream generation module generates a data stream. The wireless transmission device includes a wireless module, wherein the data stream generation device is adapted to send the wireless network configuration data and the data stream to the wireless transmission device through the cable, and the wireless transmission device is adapted to use the wireless network configuration data to configure the wireless module and use the wireless module to transmit the data stream wirelessly. |
| US09560534B2 |
Processing objects of a radiomap database
It is inter alia disclosed to respectively link at least two objects of a plurality of objects to one or more respective regions of a grid of regions. The at least two objects are respectively related to a respective coverage area representation and/or a respective coverage-providing entity. At least two of the at least two objects are associated with each other based on a finding that both have been linked to at least one same region of the grid of regions. At least one of the at least two associated objects is an object related to a first communication system and at least one other of the at least two associated objects is an object related to a second communication system that is different from and/or operated by another operator than said first communication system. |
| US09560532B2 |
Signal strength profiling
A system for supporting electronic positioning in apparatuses. Apparatuses may receive various wireless signals over time. The strength of the received wireless signals may be determined by the apparatuses, and based on this determination an occurrence for each received wireless signal may be accumulated in a histogram in the apparatus. Information based on the histogram may then be transmitted to a mapping database. The mapping database may then utilize this information to, for example, create signal-based maps for use in apparatus positioning. |
| US09560528B2 |
Assigning frequency bands from a group of frequency bands to a wireless network system
A method for assigning frequency bands from a group of frequency bands, the method comprising determining a quality of service being required by the wireless network system, comparing the required quality of service with the predefined categories of the plurality of groups of frequency bands, selecting a group of frequency bands based on the comparison, and assigning at least one band from the selected group of frequency bands to the wireless network system, for communication between the at least one base station and the at least one user equipment. |
| US09560527B2 |
Version protection method and apparatus for mobile terminal
Provided is a version protection method for a mobile terminal, which includes: monitoring a local event of the mobile terminal and judging whether the mobile phone enters a loss protection state or not; and after the mobile phone is determined to enter the loss protection state, recording a loss state event, switching a current working state to the loss protection state, and limiting a corresponding function. A version protection apparatus for a mobile terminal is also provided. Accordingly, a beneficial effect of performing specific version protection on the mobile terminal entering the protection state is achieved, reliability of the mobile terminal is improved, and a user experience is improved by monitoring the local event of the mobile terminal, recording the loss state event after the mobile terminal is determined to enter the loss protection state, switching the current working state to the loss protection state and limiting the corresponding function. |
| US09560524B1 |
Wireless network application access by a wireless communication device via an untrusted access node
Embodiments disclosed herein provide systems and methods to provide wireless network application access to a wireless device via an untrusted access node. In a particular embodiment, a method provides receiving communications directed to an application system within a wireless communication network from a wireless communication device via a wireless access node external to the wireless communication network. The method further provides determining whether the communications are authorized for the application system based on a signature included in the communications, wherein the signature comprises a unique identifier generated at the wireless communication device that corresponds to an identity of the wireless communication device and an identity of an integrated circuit within that wireless communication device that is associated with a subscriber of the wireless communication network. Upon determining that the communications are authorized, the method provides transferring the communications to the application system. |
| US09560517B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing a service to a roaming UE via a packet data network gateway
A method of providing a service to a user equipment (UE) via a packet data network gateway (PDN GW), wherein the UE is served by a visited public land mobile network (V-PLMN) and wherein the UE has a subscription with a home public land mobile network (H-PLMN) comprising the steps of: providing, by a register in the H-PLMN, a H-PLMN-allowed indication, indicating whether a PDN GW in the H-PLMN is authorized to be selected for the UE for execution of the service, and providing, based on the H-PLMN-allowed indication, an indication to the UE, whether the UE can expect successful execution of the service. |
| US09560510B2 |
Reducing provider costs related to E911 service
In compliance with regulatory requirements imposed on multicarrier wired/wireless network carriers, the disclosed system receives input representing a selection of a street address to be used as a current location associated with a user identity. The system determines an expiration date associated with the street address, designates the street address as a validated emergency contact location for the user identity in response to determining that the expiration date associated with the street address has not expired. The system thereafter permits the establishment of communications between the system and a disparate wireless network device associated with a multicarrier wireless network. |
| US09560508B2 |
Mobile communication system, base station, gateway apparatus, core network apparatus, and communication method
A mobile communication system includes a mobile station, a base station that communicates wirelessly with the mobile station, a gateway apparatus that connects the base station to a core network, and a core network apparatus that is arranged in the core network. The base station includes a control unit that includes, in a message, information indicating that the mobile station has originated a call as an emergency call, and a transmission unit that transmits the message to the core network apparatus. In addition, the core network apparatus includes a reception unit that receives the message that was transmitted from the base station. |
| US09560502B2 |
Methods of performing actions in a cell phone based on message parameters
Methods performed by handsets such as cell phones of receiving a notification of a remotely stored message, the notification including message parameters related to the message, monitoring those parameters for a parameter selected via a user interface of the handset and requesting an action be performed on the message when the parameter matches the selected parameter, such as forwarding all messages of a given type to another destination. |
| US09560499B2 |
System and method for controlling device usage
Mobile device usage may be monitored and restricted by pushing enabling/disabling events from an administrator the device. The events impose a certain set of rules that can “lock” certain features provided by the device, according to permissions and pre-established policies, for a certain period of time. Such restricted periods may coincide with meetings or other events in which distractions should be kept to a minimum or be during regular, predetermined time periods. Preferably, the rules include conditional locks that allow a user to use a feature a reasonable number of times before the lock is activated to place the onus on the user for minimizing such distractions, while enabling the user to maintain access to such a vital communication tool. Cancel packets may also be used to not only control but to monitor the application of the rule sets and when certain conditions are breaches, which provides an employer with sufficient information to use in auditing device usage or in reprimanding users for misuse of a privilege such as the use of mobile data communications devices. |
| US09560496B2 |
End-of-call short message implementation method and apparatus based on CTD
A method and apparatus for implementing an end-of-call short message based on click to dial are disclosed. The method includes: receiving a click to dial request of a network customer service, and establishing a call from a calling party to a called party; and judging whether a condition of triggering the end-of-call short message is satisfied, and if it is determined that the condition of triggering the end-of-call short message is satisfied, sending the end-of-call short message to a preset receiver of the end-of-call short message. The apparatus includes: a click to dial unit and a judgment unit. In the present document, by organically combining the CTD service and the end-of-call short message in websites of specific enterprises and stores, the enterprises and stores are better advertised. |
| US09560494B2 |
Instant messaging to a mobile device
A wireless communications device logs on to an instant messaging service through a proxy server. Notification of an incoming instant message is provided to the wireless communications device by converting at least part of the instant message to Short Message Service (SMS) format or by transmitting a notice in SMS format that a message has been received. |
| US09560489B2 |
Reducing location search space
Methods, program products, and systems for reducing a location search space are described. A mobile device, when arriving at a venue, can determine a location of the mobile device using signals from one or more signal sources associated with the venue. The mobile device can use a coarse location estimator to estimate a coarse location of the mobile device at the venue. The mobile device can request, from a server, detailed location data associated with the coarse location. The detailed location data can include location fingerprint data associated with a portion of the venue that includes the coarse location. The mobile device can determine an estimated location that has finer granularity than the coarse location using the location fingerprint data. |
| US09560480B2 |
Interactive advisory system
A method for providing information to a plurality of vendors located remotely from a broadcast network. A plurality of user-defined parameters are received by a user input database with at least one of the user-defined parameters including a user profile. Each of the user profiles includes a user identifier code identifying a communicator device associated with a particular user. Real-time data indicative of the spatial locations of the communicator devices is received by a communicator location database. Search information is received independently from a plurality of vendors and a data set is generated for each vendor. |
| US09560478B2 |
System and method for location-based content delivery
Various embodiments are described herein for a system and method for providing location-based content delivery to at least one target zone. The system comprises at least one content transceiver unit having a processor configured to control the operation of the content transceiver unit, and a communications subsystem coupled with the processor and being configured to communicate with at least one target in the at least one target zone. The processor is configured to send an introductory content page based on a content campaign to the at least one target when the at least one target initiates a content transmission session with the at least one content transceiver unit. The processor is also configured to send selected content to the at least one target when the at least one target selects a content option in the introductory content page. |
| US09560475B2 |
Mobile terminal and control method thereof
A mobile terminal includes: a display; a short-range communication module; and a controller configured to establish a communication link with at least one first terminal located within a predetermined distance by using the short-range communication module, obtain second information associated with first information when the first information is obtained through the established communication link, and display the same on the display. Based on information obtained through a short-range communication link, information associated with the obtained information is obtained, thereby providing various services by using short-range communication. |
| US09560474B2 |
Device for transfering data between an unconscious capture device and another device
Apparatuses and methods are disclosed for accessing and distributing data that includes a portable first device and a second device wherein both devices have unconscious capture capability. The first device has a first memory wherein at least one document is stored in the first memory of the first device. The first device has a transceiver, an identifier, and a public key to access a second device. |
| US09560471B2 |
Peer-to-peer host station
A method and system is disclosed for allowing the sharing of one or more system resources between multiple devices. In one embodiment, a requesting device transmits a resource access request to a target device using a near-field communication (NFC) protocol. The target device responds by using the NFC connection to return a listing of resources available for sharing to the requesting device. The requesting device may select one or more of the available resources and establish an appropriate connection to access the selected resource or resources. In one embodiment, the requesting device may lack external network connectivity capabilities while the target device includes wi-fi connectivity as a shared resource. Accordingly, the requesting device may access external network of the target device via the target as a conduit. |
| US09560469B2 |
System and method for adapting an electronic device for different desired persona
A system and method are described for automatically or manually adapting the user interface of a mobile electronic device (“MED”) for a desired persona of the system user. This will permit the system user to provide a desired personal image to the outside world. The ability of a system user to adapt the MED for a system user's persona will include the changing the user interface consistent with the persona the system user desires to represent internally and externally. This will also permit the system user to change the external connections of his/her MED consistent with that persona, which will remain the active persona until the system user decides to change the persona. |
| US09560466B2 |
Systems and methods for simulation of mixing in air of recorded sounds
A mixing signal processing technique modifies digital audio recordings to simulate the linear and nonlinear effects of propagation and mixing of sounds in air. When multiple sounds or complex sounds comprised of multiple frequencies in the audible spectrum propagate in such a nonlinear medium, they transfer energy into sound at new frequencies given by the sums and differences of the original signal frequencies. The mixing signal processing technique may improve the ability of a system to reproduce the effects of a live performance using a digital audio recording. |
| US09560465B2 |
Digital audio filters for variable sample rates
Various exemplary embodiments relate to a method and apparatus for processing audio signals to influence the reproduction of the audio signals. The apparatus may include a speaker, a headphone (over-the-ear, on-ear, or in-ear), a microphone, a computer, a mobile device, a home theater receiver, a television, a Blu-ray (BD) player, a compact disc (CD) player, a digital media player, or the like. The apparatus may be configured to receive a virtualization profile including a digital audio filter with a design sample rate, resample the virtualization profile to a different sample rate, filter the audio signal with the resampled virtualization profile, and reproduce the filtered audio signal as sound. |
| US09560463B2 |
Multistage minimum variance distortionless response beamformer
A system and method relate to receiving, by a processing device, a plurality of sound signals captured at a plurality of microphone sensors, wherein the plurality of sound signals are from a sound source, and wherein a number (M) of the plurality of microphone sensors is greater than three, determining a number (K) of layers for a multistage minimum variance distortionless response (MVDR) beamformer based on the number (M) of the plurality of microphone sensors, wherein the number (K) of layers is greater than one, and wherein each layer of the multistage MVDR beamformer comprises one or more mini-length MVDR beamformers, and executing the multistage MVDR beamformer to the plurality of sound signals to calculate an estimate of the sound source. |
| US09560462B2 |
Microphone test stand for acoustic testing
The present invention relates to a microphone test stand comprising a slide assembly with a microphone holder surrounded by a first acoustic sealing member. The slide assembly is movable in a first direction between a first position outside an acoustical chamber with an exposed state of the microphone holder and a second position inside the acoustical chamber in a shielded state of the microphone holder. An electrical connector comprises a set of electrical connector terminals which is connectable to a set of microphone terminals for receipt of a microphone response signal from a microphone assembly arranged in the microphone holder in response to a test sound pressure in the acoustical chamber. |
| US09560461B2 |
Automatic loudspeaker polarity detection
In some embodiments, a method for automatic detection of polarity of speakers, e.g., speakers installed in cinema environments. In some embodiments, the method determines relative polarities of a set of speakers (e.g., loudspeakers and/or drivers of a multi-driver loudspeaker) using a set of microphones, including by measuring impulse responses, including an impulse response for each speaker-microphone pair; clustering the speakers into a set of groups, each group including at least two of the speakers which are similar to each other in at least one respect; and for each group, determining and analyzing cross-correlations of pairs of impulse responses (e.g., pairs of processed versions of impulse responses) of speakers in the group to determine relative polarities of the speakers. Other aspects include systems configured (e.g., programmed) to perform any embodiment of the inventive method, and computer readable media (e.g., discs) which store code for implementing any embodiment of the inventive method. |
| US09560459B2 |
Modular voice amplification system for protective mask
Disclosed is a modular voice amplification system for a protective mask that allows connection of a single amplifier assembly to masks of varying configurations through minimal adjustment of the system. Adapter plates in the form of mounting brackets are provided, each of which is configured for attachment to the single amplifier assembly, but is individually configured for attachment to protective masks of varying configurations through differing attachment mechanisms provided on each adapter plate. |
| US09560457B2 |
Plug connector
A plug connector includes: a jack portion into which a pin of a microphone-equipped headphone plug in which a speaker contact portion connected to a speaker of a headphone, a ground contact portion connected to a ground wire of the headphone, and a microphone contact portion connected to a microphone of the headphone are sequentially formed in an axial direction, the jack portion having a first contact which is in contact with the speaker contact portion, a second contact which is in contact with the ground contact portion, and a third contact which is in contact with the microphone contact portion; a bias circuit configured to supply a bias voltage to the third contact through a resistor; and a control circuit configured to detect that the pin is extracted from the jack portion, based on a change of a potential of the third contact. |
| US09560454B2 |
Acoustic transducer
A silicon substrate has a chamber that penetrates vertically. A diaphragm is formed on the upper surface of the silicon substrate so as to cover the upper portion of the chamber. Also, a back plate is provided above the silicon substrate so as to cover the diaphragm, and a fixed electrode plate is provided on the lower surface of the back plate in opposition to the diaphragm. Multiple acoustic holes, which penetrate vertically and are for allowing the passage of acoustic vibration, are formed in the back plate (28) and the fixed electrode plate. Multiple through-holes that have a smaller opening area than the acoustic holes are formed in a large displacement region of the diaphragm. |
| US09560447B2 |
Blind extraction of target signals
A system and method allow for extracting target signals from the overall measurement data without knowing how and where these data are collected, the locations and characteristics of target sources as well as those of random background noise sources. In essence, it uses an innovative and advanced signal processing technique to reveal certain critical information from a mixture of data that is hard to obtain otherwise. In particular, it allows for denoising the measured data that have been contaminated by various interfering and background noise, making it possible to extract certain target information that may be otherwise difficult to observe. The only assumption made in this method is that the target signal is incoherent with respect to all interfering signals and background noise. The more information about a target signal is available, the more complete the extracted signal becomes. |
| US09560446B1 |
Sound source locator with distributed microphone array
A sound source locator efficiently employs a distributed physical or logical microphone array to determine a location of a source of a sound. In some instances, the sound source locator is deployed in an augmented reality environment. The sound source locator detects sound at a plurality of microphones, generates a signal corresponding to the sound, and causes attributes of signal as generated at the plurality of microphones to be stored in association with the corresponding microphone. The sound source locator uses these stored attributes to identify multiple groups of the plurality of microphones from which delays between the times the signal is generated can be used to compute the location of the source of the sound. |
| US09560445B2 |
Enhanced spatial impression for home audio
Technologies pertaining to provision of customized audio to each listener in a plurality of listeners are described herein. A sensor outputs data that is indicative of locations of multiple listeners in an environment. The data is processed to determine locations and orientations of the respective heads of the multiple listener in the environment. Based on the locations and orientations of heads of the listeners in the environment, for each listener, respective customized audio signals are generated. The customized audio signals are transmitted to respective beamforming transducers. The beamforming transducers directionally output customized beams for the first listener and the second listener based upon the customized audio signals and locations of the heads of the listeners. |
| US09560440B2 |
Apparatus and method for detecting location of moving body, lighting apparatus, air conditioning apparatus, security apparatus, and parking lot management apparatus
An apparatus and method for detecting the location of a moving body. The apparatus may include a speaker configured to intermittently generate a pulse signal to a detection space and a microphone array configured to obtain a reflected sound of the pulse signal that is generated in the detection space. The location of a moving body is estimated by extracting a change of a sound field from the reflected sound. The present invention can be applied to an apparatus for detecting a moving body without any side effect because the location of a moving body can be accurately detected up to an angle and distance. Furthermore, the present invention can be applied to various application apparatuses, such as a lighting apparatus, an air conditioning apparatus, a security apparatus, and a parking lot management apparatus because there is no problem in health and there is no side effect in application. |
| US09560439B2 |
Methods, systems, and computer readable media for source and listener directivity for interactive wave-based sound propagation
Methods, systems, and computer readable media for supporting source or listener directivity in a wave-based sound propagation model are disclosed. According to one method, the method includes computing, prior to run-time, one or more sound fields associated with a source or listener position and modeling, at run-time and using the one or more sound fields and a wave-based sound propagation model, source or listener directivity in an environment. |
| US09560436B2 |
Ergonomic earpiece and attachments
An earpiece that substantially lacks a lower lobe is disclosed. In one example, the earpiece can have a generally arcuate rib having upper and lower ends. A lobe can be formed at the upper end of the arcuate rib. No lobe is formed at the lower end of the arcuate rib. An extension can extend from the earpiece and can be configured to extend into the ear canal. Eliminating the lower lobe mitigates discomfort during use and also reduces the likelihood of tissue damage and infection. The extension can enhance communication of desired sound, e.g., from a two-way radio, to an eardrum while mitigating communication of undesirable ambient noise to the eardrum. Other implementations and related methods are also disclosed. |
| US09560435B2 |
Protective enclosure for electronic device
A protective enclosure for a mobile computing device that has an interactive touchscreen includes a first case member and a second case member. The second case member is attachable to the first case member via a latching mechanism, and the combined case members provide a protective interior of the enclosure. Pliable areas of the first and/or second case member align with a control button of the mobile computing device and transfer external force to the control button. An electrical connector of the protective enclosure is structured to engage a corresponding connector of the mobile computing device. The protective cover includes audio headphones and a headphone cable that connects between the audio headphones and an exterior surface of the second case member, electrically connecting the audio headphones to the electrical connector of the protective enclosure. |
| US09560434B2 |
Head cord audio system and method of use thereof
A head gear audio system having an audio plug electrically connected to a y-adapter, a left coiled wire having a first end and a second end, the first end connected to the y-adapter and the second end connected to a left ear bud speaker; and a right coiled wire having a first end and a second end, the first end connected to the y-adapter and the second end connected to a right ear bud speaker, wherein the left coiled wire is releasably affixed to a left section of a stretchable cord and the right coiled wire is releasably affixed to a right section of the stretchable cord, and a tensioner. |
| US09560433B2 |
Microphone mounting method and apparatus
A microphone support and enclosing windscreen has microphone supports curving about 270 degrees about an axis with upper and lower fingers to grip the microphone above and below the longitudinal axis of the microphone. The microphone supports move along an upper rail of a connector. First and second cage portions have longitudinal ribs connected to circular rings forming a windscreen support, with base rings on each cage portion connected to a bracket to encircle the microphone and its supports during use. One of the cage portions moves along the connector and rotates to allow access to the microphone. |
| US09560426B1 |
System and method for group tracking and displaying a plurality of wireless tracking devices on rotational maps oriented by one or more individuals being tracked
A system and method for tracking a group of individuals comprising: a wireless tracking device provided to at least one or more individuals within a group, wherein the wireless tracking device is configured for bi-directional communications with a monitoring center that establishes dynamic geo-fencing limitations in real-time for all group members provided with the wireless tracking device based on the group's center of gravity as they travel, whereby the geo-fence is in constant motion, and the wireless tracking device is adapted to determine and store absolute location information of each wireless tracking device provided to group members; and viewing device configured for displaying identification information concerning each individual wireless tracking device within the group on a rotating map display oriented relative to the group leader's location information. |
| US09560421B2 |
Broadcast and broadband hybrid service with MMT and DASH
Method and apparatuses for broadcasting and receiving media data over a heterogeneous network. A method for receiving media data includes receiving and processing media data broadcast using MMTP packets via a broadcast network. The method also includes, in response to receiving a signaling message associated with the broadcast media data, determining whether broadband media data associated with the broadcast media data is available via a broadband network based on the signaling message. The method includes receiving the broadband media data using DASH via the broadband network. Additionally, the method includes providing the broadband media data in association with the broadcast media data for presentation via a display device. |
| US09560419B2 |
System and method for listening to teams in a race event
A computer-implemented method and system allows a remote computer user to listen to teams in a race event. The method includes receiving audio signals from a plurality of audio sources at the race event; transmitting at least some of the audio signals to a remote computer; and filtering the audio signals as a function of the source of at least some of the audio signals so that at least some of the audio signals are not played by the remote computer and heard by the user. |
| US09560416B2 |
Method and apparatus for interfacing buyers with products depicted in a video
A method for capturing viewer attention concerning a product depicted in a color motion video display is provided wherein one or a chosen sequential plurality of image frames rendering the motion video on a display during a defined time period, includes highlighted portions of the video frame depicting products or services to attract the gaze and attention of the user wherein a provided user interface may be employed to request information about or order the product depicted in the highlighted portion of the display of the video. |
| US09560415B2 |
Method and system for interactive selection of items for purchase from a video
A computer-implemented method comprises displaying a video episode via a display screen, identifying, via a processor, the video episode with a unique play identifier, tracking, via the processor, an image of a shopable item in the displaying video, and linking a display screen coordinate location of an interactive tap zone with the image of the shopable item during the video episode. The interactive tap zone is selected to indicate selection of the tracked shopable item and the processor associates the selection with the unique play identifier. |
| US09560413B2 |
Systems and methods for notifying a user when activity level exceeds an authorization level
Systems and methods for generating a notification when activity exceeds an authorization level are provided. A determination is made as to whether content currently being presented to a first user exceeds an authorization level associated with the first user. In response to determining that the content exceeds the authorization level, the content being presented is monitored to determine whether the content meets a criterion. An amount of time the content being presented meets the criterion is measured. In response to determining that the amount of time exceeds a threshold, a communication is transmitted to a second user indicating that the content currently being presented to the first user exceeds the authorization level. |
| US09560412B2 |
System and method for troubleshooting a set top box
A method and system for troubleshooting a media processor is disclosed and can include receiving a trouble ticket from a media processor and initiating a self-test at the media processor. The method and system can include receiving test results from the media processor and analyzing the test results to isolate a problem. |
| US09560411B2 |
Method and apparatus for generating meta data of content
A method of providing content includes receiving emotional information in relation to the content; generating information about a representative type of emotion associated with the emotional information received from the client; updating an Electronic Program Guide associated with the content or a header of the content using the information about the representative type of emotion; and providing the content with the updated Electronic Program Guide or the updated header to the user. |
| US09560409B2 |
Media service personalization systems and methods
An exemplary media service personalization system maintains profiles for multiple media service access devices associated with an end-user account with a media service, generates a merged profile based on the profiles for the media service access devices, and directs a communal media service access device associated with the end-user account to personalize the media service based on the merged profile. |
| US09560408B2 |
Tracking and displaying popular media content
A media content processing system includes a first tuner programmed to receive a first media content signal and a second tuner programmed to receive a second media content signal. A processing device is programmed to receive a popularity signal representing a popularity of a media content instance. The processing device is further programmed to command the second tuner to tune to the media content instance identified by the popularity signal. |
| US09560407B2 |
Systems and methods for managing pairing of remote control devices with a plurality of media content processing devices
An exemplary method includes a remote control device management system pairing a remote control device with a first media content processing device; detecting, after the pairing of the remote control device with the first media content processing device, that a second media content processing device receives an infrared (“IR”) signal transmitted from the remote control device together with a non-infra-red (“non-IR”) based wireless communication signal; determining that the remote control device is not paired with the second media content processing device by determining that the IR signal received by the second media content processing device includes an IR token that identifies the remote control device as being paired with the first media content processing device; and re-pairing, in response to the determination, the remote control device with the second media content processing device in place of the first media content processing device. Corresponding systems and methods are also described. |
| US09560404B2 |
Advertisement targeting scheme in a multicast ABR environment based on ad caching
A scheme for providing targeted advertisements in a multicast adaptive bitrate (ABR) streaming environment. In one implementation, ads specific to a subscriber's demographic profile and relevant to the genre of a tuned MABR media channel may be downloaded in a gateway (GW) or into a network storage system. In another implementation, multicast ABR streams of ads may be triggered at specific points (e.g., insertion markers in a multicast ABR media channel) that can be selectively joined by a GW node based on demographics and channel genre. In yet another implementation, continuously streaming multicast ad channels may be switched at suitable points in a multicast ABR media channel based on targeting parameters. |
| US09560397B2 |
Adaptive video-server reconfiguration for self-optimizing multi-tier IPTV networks
Various embodiments of the disclosed subject matter provide apparatus, methods, and systems including an input to receive data associated with a channel viewership of a network; a distribution unit coupled to the input, the distribution unit to determine one or more relative viewership distributions based on the data; and a configuration unit coupled to the distribution unit, the configuration unit to provide one or more reconfiguration settings for one or more reconfigurable servers coupled to the network. |
| US09560395B2 |
Systems and methods for remote web query and image selection exchange to video screen
Systems and methods are disclosed for receiving a request to display, on an first communications device, media content, where the request comprises a first logical address for accessing the media content at a first storage location, transmitting to a second communications device, a second logical address for accessing a copy of the media content at a second storage location, where the second logical address differs from the first logical address, and where the second storage location differs from the first storage location. Other embodiments are disclosed. |
| US09560394B2 |
Specifying client behavior and sessions in dynamic adaptive streaming over hypertext transfer protocol (DASH)
An apparatus comprises a receiver configured to receive a request for an adaptive streaming media presentation description (MPD), a processor coupled to the receiver and configured to generate the MPD, wherein the MPD indicates an event, and wherein the event is time-related auxiliary information, and a transmitter coupled to the processor and configured to transmit the MPD. A method comprises receiving a request for an adaptive streaming media presentation description (MPD), generating the MPD, wherein the MPD indicates an event, and wherein the event is time-related auxiliary information, and transmitting the MPD. An apparatus comprises a processor configured to generate a request for an adaptive streaming media presentation description (MPD), a transmitter coupled to the processor and configured to transmit the request, and a receiver coupled to the processor and configured to receive the MPD, wherein the MPD indicates an event, and wherein the event is time-related auxiliary information. |
| US09560391B2 |
Systems and methods for compiling and organizing multiple episodes of media content series
Methods, systems and devices for organizing media content are provided. One method includes receiving a request, via a user interface presented to a user, to compile a requested plurality of episodes of a selected media content. The availability of the requested plurality of episodes are determined from a plurality of media content sources. The requested plurality of episodes are then compiled (e.g., recorded via a digital video recorder or located within a streaming service). A user interface is then presented to the user, including a series-order arrangement of the requested plurality of episodes. |
| US09560382B2 |
Method and apparatus for adaptively reducing artifacts in block-coded video
Apparatus, systems and methods for adaptively reducing blocking artifacts in block-coded video are disclosed. In one implementation, a system includes processing logic at least capable of deblock filtering at least a portion of a line of video data based, at least in part, on edge information and texture information to generate at least a portion of a line of deblocked video data, and an image data output device responsive to the processing logic. |
| US09560381B2 |
Encoding system, device, and method
An encoding system includes: a plurality of encoding devices that each include an encoding processing unit configured to, at a timing in accordance with a vertical synchronization signal included in a moving picture signal, encode divided image data, wherein one encoding device acts as a single master and the remaining one or more encoding devices act as slave. A main synchronization processing unit configured to be provided in the master, in accordance with the vertical synchronization signal, to transmit a setting signal to the slave to perform setting on the encoding processing unit, so that a start timing of encoding processing by each of the encoding processing units is synchronized in frame image units, and to monitor a synchronization state of the encoding devices based on a state signal representing a state of the encoding processing unit of the ancillary encoding device received from the slave. |
| US09560379B2 |
Inter-prediction method and video encoding/decoding method using the inter-prediction method
A video encoding method using inter-prediction, includes: encoding a first picture, wherein the first picture serves as a random access picture and is encoded without referring to a reference picture which has already encoded and then decoded; inter-prediction encoding a block included in a second picture, which is encoded after the first picture and displayed before the first picture, by using a plurality of reference pictures; generating reference picture information representing one or more past pictures which are encoded before the first picture and are used as reference pictures for encoding the second picture; and transmitting the encoded first picture and the encoded second pictures and the reference picture information, wherein, when the one or more past pictures are used as the reference pictures for encoding the second picture, the one or more past pictures are deleted from a memory after encoding at least the second picture. |
| US09560378B2 |
Image coding method, image decoding method, image coding apparatus, and image decoding apparatus
An image coding method includes selecting two or more transform components from among a plurality of transform components that include a translation component and non-translation components, the two or more transform components serving as reference information that represents a reference destination of a current block; coding selection information that identifies the two or more transform components that have been selected from among the plurality of transform components; and coding the reference information of the current block by using reference information of a coded block different from the current block. |
| US09560373B2 |
Image coding method and apparatus with candidate motion vectors
An image coding method derives a first candidate having a first motion vector that has been used to code a first block, and derives a second candidate having a second motion vector that has been used to code a second block. It is determined whether a total number of candidates having the first candidate and the second candidate is less than a maximum candidate number, and a third bi-directional candidate is derived when the total number of candidates is less than the maximum candidate number. The third bi-directional candidate has a third motion vector that is identical to the first motion vector, and a fourth motion vector that is identical to the second motion vector. A merging candidate for coding a current block is selected from the candidates having the first candidate, the second candidate, and the third candidate. |
| US09560371B2 |
Video compression system
A improvement to video compression techniques is described in which blocks of video input information are compared in their respective pixel values to corresponding blocks of immediately preceding frames. The blocks are analyzed to determine whether change has occurred in accordance with two tests. First, the pixel values of the block are compared to the pixel values of a preceding block and if a threshold number of pixel values in the block exceed their counterparts by a threshold amount, then the block is assumed to have changed and is communicated via a standard communication protocol, compression technique and media. Second, even if the threshold number of pixels in the block has not changed, the pixel values are compared with their prior frame counterparts to determine if any one pixel value has changed in magnitude more than a second threshold amount. Again, one such pixel is identified, then the block is assumed to have changed and is communicated. |
| US09560369B2 |
Video decoding method and apparatus using the same
Disclosed is a video decoding method that decodes a bitstream, the method including receiving a picture parameter set (PPS) comprising at least one of first information indicating whether the same reference picture list is applied to slices comprised in a picture and second information indicating whether additional information on modification of the reference picture list is present, and deriving a construction of the reference picture list based on the PPS. Accordingly, there are provided a method and an apparatus for signaling by a picture whether the construction of the reference picture list is modified when constructing the reference picture list. |
| US09560368B2 |
Moving picture decoding method and moving picture encoding method
High-quality video is provided using a small amount of coded bits. The moving picture decoding method performs inter-frame prediction processing. With the aforementioned inter-frame prediction processing, blocks with similar motion vectors from among the motion vectors in multiple blocks that have already been decoded are combined and a combined area is computed. A predicted vector for a target block to be decoded is computed using the motion vector of the aforementioned combined area, and a motion vector for the aforementioned target block is computed based on the aforementioned predicted vector and a difference vector which is included in a coded stream that is input. A predicted image is generated using the aforementioned motion vector, and a difference image which is included in the aforementioned coded stream and the aforementioned predicted image are added to generate a decoded image. |
| US09560367B2 |
Parameter set and picture header in video coding
In a start code based bistream structure for use in video coding, a picture header is used simultaneously with the parameter set in the start code. The picture header is present before the slice header in the same picture. As such, it is possible to allow the presence of at least one sequence parameter set or picture parameter set before the slice header. In a NAL unit parameter set bitstream structure, the picture head NAL unit is present before the slice NAL unit. In either structure, the picture header information must remain unchanged during the decoding of the entire picture, but should change more frequently between pictures as compared to the information in the picture parameter set. |
| US09560363B2 |
Image encoding device, photographing system, photographing recording system, image encoding method, and non-transitory computer readable medium storing image encoding control program
An image encoding device includes a degree of importance calculating unit that calculates a degree of importance on each of a plurality of input images which are consecutively input, a degree of importance period calculating unit that calculates a degree of importance period which is a period of the degree of importance, an average degree of importance calculating unit that calculates an average degree of importance which is an average of degrees of importance of times corresponding to a current in each of a plurality of previous degree of importance periods, an image quality control parameter calculating unit that calculates an image quality control parameter based on the average degree of importance, and an image encoding unit that encodes the input image using the image quality control parameter and generates video data. |
| US09560362B2 |
Method and apparatus of texture image compression in 3D video coding
A method and apparatus for 3D video coding system are disclosed. Embodiments according to the present invention apply SAO process (sample adaptive offset process) to at least one dependent-view image of the processed multi-view images if processed multi-view images are received. Also embodiments according to the present invention apply the SAO process to at least one dependent-view image of the processed multi-view images or at least one depth map of the processed multi-view depth maps if both processed multi-view images and the processed multi-view depth maps are received. The SAO can be applied to each color component of the processed multi-view images or the processed multi-view depth maps. The SAO parameters associated with a target region in one dependent-view image or in one depth map corresponding to one view may share or may be predicted by second SAO parameters associated with a source region corresponding to another view. |
| US09560360B2 |
Decoding a picture based on a reference picture set on an electronic device
A method for decoding a picture on an electronic device is described. The method includes obtaining a bitstream. The method also includes obtaining a current picture. The method further includes obtaining a relative reference picture set (RPS) parameter. The method additionally includes initializing an index value. Furthermore, the method includes processing another RPS parameter based on the index value. The method also includes decoding the current picture. |
| US09560351B1 |
Low cost rate-distortion computations for video compression
A method of rate-distortion computations for video compression is disclosed. The method may include steps (A) to (C). Step (A) may generate a plurality of transform coefficients from a residual block of the video using a circuit. Step (B) may generate a block distortion value (i) based on the transform coefficients and (ii) independent of a plurality of inverse transform samples produced from the residual block. Step (C) may generate a rate-distortion value from the block distortion value. |
| US09560350B2 |
Intra/inter mode decision for predictive frame encoding
This invention predicts that intra mode prediction is more effective for the macro blocks where motion estimation in inter mode prediction fails. This failure is indicated by a large value of the inter mode SAD. This invention performs intra mode prediction for only macro blocks have larger inter mode SADs. The definition of a large inter mode SAD differs for different content. This invention compares the inter mode SAD of a current macroblock with an adaptive threshold. This adaptive threshold depends on the average and variance of the SADs of the previous predicted frame. An adaptive threshold is calculated for each new predictive frame. |
| US09560345B2 |
Camera calibration
Embodiments herein include systems, methods and articles of manufacture for calibrating a camera. In one embodiment, a computing system may be coupled to a calibration apparatus and the camera to programmatically identify the intrinsic properties of the camera. The calibration apparatus includes a plurality of light sources which are controlled by the computer system. By selectively activating one or more of the light sources, the computer system identifies correspondences that relate the 3D position of the light sources to the 2D image captured by the camera. The computer system then calculates the intrinsics of the camera using the 3D to 2D correspondences. After the intrinsics are measured, cameras may be further calibrated to in order to identify 3D locations of objects within their field of view in a presentation area. Using passive markers in a presentation area, computing system may use an iterative process that estimates the actual pose of the camera. |
| US09560341B2 |
Stereoscopic image reproduction device and method, stereoscopic image capturing device, and stereoscopic display device
A stereoscopic image is displayed with an appropriate amount of parallax on the basis of auxiliary information recorded in a three-dimensional image file. A 3D image file is read (Step S31), and the size of a display which performs 3D display is acquired (Step S32). The maximum display size capable of appropriately performing 3D display of a viewpoint image is acquired from metadata of the read 3D image file (Step S33). The size acquired in Step S32 is compared with the maximum display size acquired in Step S33 (Step S34). When the maximum display size is smaller, parallax displacement or parallax compression is performed, (Step S35), and then 3D display is performed (Step S36). Therefore, display can be appropriately performed on the basis of the maximum display size. |
| US09560340B2 |
Three-dimensional image pickup lens system and image pickup system including the same
A three-dimensional image pickup lens system, including two lens apparatuses, each of the two lens apparatuses including: an optical element drivers in a direction containing a component perpendicular to an optical axis; a driving unit driving the optical element; a detector detecting vibration of a corresponding one of the lens apparatuses; a first generator generating a first signal driving the optical element to correct image blur due to the vibration; a second generator generating a second signal driving the optical element to a position corresponding to a set angle of convergence; a retainer retaining an effective maximum correction amount as a correctable maximum image stabilization amount determined based on the second signals generated in the lens apparatuses and is common to the lens apparatuses; and a controller driving the optical element by the driving unit based on the first signal, the second signal, and the effective maximum correction amount. |
| US09560336B2 |
Interlaced 3D video
A video processing device (100) for processing 3D video is coupled to a 3D display device (120). The device receives the 3D video data according to a high resolution interlaced 3D format. A video processor (106) generates a 3D display signal according to a display format. 3D display capability data indicates at least one interlaced 3D display format accepted by the 3D display device, the interlaced 3D display format having a lower resolution than the high resolution interlaced 3D format. The device has a storage unit (21, 31) for storing the 3D display capability data and 3D conversion capability data. The 3D conversion capability data indicates a capability of the video processing device for interlaced down conversion for enabling a selection mechanism to control the processing of the 3D video information by selecting the interlaced 3D display format and the interlaced down conversion. Advantageously the user is provided with the best possible 3D view. |
| US09560328B1 |
Scanned beam projector pulsed laser control
Briefly, in accordance with one or more embodiments, a scanned beam projector comprises a laser diode to emit a beam, a scanning engine to scan the beam on a surface to project an image comprising virtual pixels on the surface, a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) coupled to the laser diode to cause the laser diode to emit the beam in response to a digital video signal provided to the DAC, and a pulsed pixel controller to provide the digital video signal to the DAC, the pulsed pixel controller to align the digital video signal provided to the DAC with the virtual pixels of the image, and to select an optimal waveform to be generated by the laser diode for each virtual pixel. |
| US09560322B2 |
Device having built-in digital data device powered by unlimited power source for light device
A device having built-in digital data means is powered by an unlimited power source for a lamp-holder, LED bulb, or light device connected to unlimited power source by prongs or a base that can be inserted into a socket that would otherwise receiving a bulb. The device may take the form of a webcam having auto tracking functions and retractable prongs that plug directly into a wall outlet. |
| US09560319B1 |
Audiovisual information processing in videoconferencing
Embodiments of the present invention relate to audiovisual stream processing in videoconferences. For each audiovisual stream in a videoconference, a sound level of the audiovisual stream is detected. If the sound level exceeds a predefined threshold level, the audiovisual stream is processed with a first configuration. If the sound level is below the predefined threshold level, the audiovisual stream is processed with a second configuration. The second configuration is more resource-effective than the first configuration. |
| US09560317B2 |
Videoconferencing system using QR codes for interaction
Quick Response barcodes (“QR Codes”) are used for videoconferencing between a peripheral device and a videoconferencing system, which can include a conferencing server and/or a videoconferencing unit. Conferencing related QR codes are embedded within video frames and are identified by either a peripheral device or a videoconferencing unit. Once identified, the device or unit acts according to the information provided by the QR code. The QR codes enables the peripheral device, videoconferencing unit, and conferencing server to operation in conjunction with one another even though one or more of the device may not share a compatible operation platform that would allow for direct communication of requests and responses. |
| US09560316B1 |
Indicating sound quality during a conference
Implementations generally relate to indicating sound quality during a conference, thereby providing real-time feedback to those generating audio intentionally or unintentionally. In some implementations, a method includes detecting an audio signal during a conference. The method further includes determining one or more sound types in the audio signal based on one or more respective characteristic criteria. The method further includes providing an indicator based on the one or more sounds types. |
| US09560314B2 |
Interactive and shared surfaces
The interactive and shared surface technique described herein employs hardware that can project on any surface, capture color video of that surface, and get depth information of and above the surface while preventing visual feedback (also known as video feedback, video echo, or visual echo). The technique provides N-way sharing of a surface using video compositing. It also provides for automatic calibration of hardware components, including calibration of any projector, RGB camera, depth camera and any microphones employed by the technique. The technique provides object manipulation with physical, visual, audio, and hover gestures and interaction between digital objects displayed on the surface and physical objects placed on or above the surface. It can capture and scan the surface in a manner that captures or scans exactly what the user sees, which includes both local and remote objects, drawings, annotations, hands, and so forth. |
| US09560313B2 |
Dialogue system and dialogue method
A system and method are provided to hold a dialog between communicators while the communicators are viewing their images each other and which prevents the presence of an image display screen from being noticeable in a non-communication state. A first unit for the communicator generates and transmits first data indicating the image of the communicator. A second unit for the communication partner expands the first data received via a communication line to display the image of the communicator on the display screen, and generates and transmits second data indicating the image of the communication partner in front of the display screen. A human sensor is configured to detect that the communication partner is at a predetermined position in a home. Only during the period of the human sensor detecting that the communication partner is at the predetermined position, the display-cum-mirror forms a display screen, and otherwise, a mirror. |
| US09560301B2 |
Pixel unit cell having conversion circuit
A circuit includes a signal line and a pixel unit cell. The pixel unit cell includes one or more light sensing elements, a conversion circuit, and a selection switch between the conversion circuit and the signal line. In the pixel unit cell, the conversion circuit is configured to convert charge carriers from the one or more light sensing elements to a voltage signal at an output node of the conversion circuit. |
| US09560299B2 |
Image pickup apparatus
At least one image pickup apparatus includes a plurality of pixels each including a photoelectric conversion unit, a charge storage unit, and an amplification unit. The charge storage unit includes a first charge storage unit, a second charge storage unit, and a third charge storage unit. In a first period from a first time to a second time, charges generated by the photoelectric conversion unit in the first period are transferred to the first charge storage unit and charges stored in the second charge storage unit and the third charge storage unit in a period preceding the first period are transferred to an input node of the amplification unit. In a second period from the second time to a third time, charges generated by the photoelectric conversion unit in the second period are transferred to the first charge storage unit and the third charge storage unit for storage. |
| US09560292B2 |
Frame-sequential multiwavelength imaging system and method
A frame-sequential multiwavelength imaging system comprises a wavelength switching device for producing a repeated series of different wavelength profiles, a detector for detecting the dynamic scene and a signal processing unit for synthesizing a dynamic multiwavelength image of the dynamic scene. The signal processing unit may comprise at least one input device at least one logic device and at least one output device. The system can be used in a method to perform multiwavelength imaging of a dynamic scene, typically for surgical purposes. |
| US09560289B2 |
Imaging apparatus and control method for recording device
A control method for a recording device includes image processing of applying an effect to a moving image, and controlling to record the moving image into a recording medium, when recording a moving image obtained by image capturing. In the image processing, an effect is applied to a moving image corresponding to a partial period of a normal moving image to be recorded into the recording medium with no effect being applied. In the controlling, control is performed to connect the normal moving image to which no effect is applied and a moving image created by applying the effect to the moving image corresponding to the partial period of the normal moving image, to record the normal moving image and the created moving image into the recording medium as a continuous moving image. |
| US09560287B2 |
Noise level based exposure time control for sequential subimages
A sequence of multiple subimages is captured by an imaging sensor organized in multiple subsets of pixels. Each of the subsets of pixels is assigned to capturing a corresponding one of the subimages. For each of the subsets of pixels, a noise level of an output of the pixels of the subset is measured. Depending on the measured noise level, an exposure time for capturing the corresponding subimage is controlled. |
| US09560282B2 |
Systems and methods for capturing images from a lock screen
Techniques for entering an image-capture user interface from a locked mobile device and capturing an image while the mobile device is still in a locked state. In an example implementation, a mobile device at a lock-screen may detect a change in orientation of the mobile device from a portrait orientation to a landscape orientation. In response, the mobile device may display an image-capture UI. In some implementations, the image-capture UI may be overlaid over one or more elements of the lock-screen. Accordingly, the mobile device may provide visual notice to a user that the phone is still in a locked state while offering image capture functionality. In another implementation, the mobile device may provide another indication that the mobile device is still locked. |
| US09560279B2 |
Camera device and projector device having protective lens
A camera device includes a lens module and a birefringent sapphire lens. The sapphire lens is coupled to the lens module as a light window to protect the lens module. The sapphire lens has a crystal structure and a crystal axis. The crystal structure is a single-crystal structure and the crystal axis is one of c-axis (0001), a-axis [including (1210), (1120), (2110), (1120), (2110) and (1210)], m-axis [including (1010), (1100), (0110), (1010), (1100), and (0110)], and r-axis [including (1011), (1011), (0111), (0111), (1101) and r-axis (1101)]. |
| US09560278B2 |
Imaging device, imaging device drive method, and imaging device control program
An imaging device includes an imaging-lens, an image-sensor, a lens-moving-mechanism, a ROM, and an intersection-point-position-control-section. The lens-moving-mechanism moves an intersection point on the image-sensor by moving a second lens in a plane perpendicular to an optical axis. The ROM stores, in advance, a LUT that stores the intersection point and an image quality evaluation value of an image, which is obtained through image capturing performed at the intersection point, in association with each other. The intersection-point-position-control-section acquires the current intersection point, calculates distances between the current intersection point and the plurality of intersection points stored in the LUT, and selects an intersection point for imaging, at which a ratio of the image quality evaluation value to the distance from the current intersection point is at the maximum, among the positions of the plurality of intersection points stored in the LUT. |
| US09560277B2 |
Image processing apparatus and image processing method
An image processing apparatus performs distortion aberration correction appropriate for each of the cases where the image processing apparatus clips image data by performing electronic image stabilization and does not clip the image data by performing the electronic image stabilization. The image processing apparatus includes a correction unit configured to perform the distortion aberration correction on image data in which distortion aberration has, and a stabilization unit configured to perform clipping from the image data based on a movement of an imaging unit when the image data has been generated. The correction unit reduces an amount of the distortion aberration correction in a case where the stabilization unit does not clip the image data, as compared to a case where the stabilization unit clips the image data. |
| US09560275B2 |
Solid-state imaging device, driving method, and electronic apparatus
Disclosed is a solid-state imaging device including a pixel array, two vertical scanning circuits, and a control part. The pixel array has a plurality of pixels arranged in a two-dimensional matrix form. The two vertical scanning circuits are configured to sequentially select and scan each of the pixels in a vertical direction per row. The control part is configured to generate, based on a mode signal corresponding to an imaging mode, a driving switch signal to stop driving of one of the two vertical scanning circuits. |
| US09560272B2 |
Electronic device and method for image data processing
An electronic device for processing image data including a camera module configured to obtain the image data. The electronic device also including a control module configured to set at least one pointing object in the image data and configured to control the image data on an object corresponding to a position of the set pointing object according to at least one of a position and movement of the at least one pointing object. |
| US09560269B2 |
Collaborative image capturing
Systems and approaches are provided to allow for collaborative image capturing. Multiple user devices subscribed to the collaborative image capturing system can be synchronized to perform certain image capturing related tasks, including coordinated image capture. When the user devices are widely dispersed, the image data can be aggregated to generate composited image data, such as panoramas, 3-D transformations, or stereoscopic image data. Multiple user devices can also be coordinated to simultaneously flash or activate other light emitting components that may improve lighting condition than would otherwise be capable of a single computing device. |
| US09560268B2 |
Method for obtaining video content from cameras which relates to a user of a communication device, and associated apparatus
A method is dedicated to the obtaining of video recordings related to a user who has a communication device (EC) capable of connecting to a wireless communications network (RC) and whose position is determinable. This method comprises the following steps: (i) determining the position of the spot where the communication device (EC) is located, (ii) determining whether there is at least one camera (C1) capable of providing video recordings, of a part of an observation area that may include that determined spot, accessible via the communications network (RC), and (iii) in the event that such a camera (C1) is determined, transmitting to the communication device (EC), via the communications network (RC), at least a portion of a video recording made by that camera (C1) while the communication device (EC) is in its observation zone. |
| US09560266B2 |
Information processing apparatus and method for extracting and categorizing postures of human figures
An information processing apparatus includes an image pickup unit, an extracting unit, an estimating unit, a categorizing unit, and a recording control unit. The image pickup unit captures an image of a subject. The extracting unit extracts a human figure from the captured image of the subject captured by the image pickup unit. The estimating unit estimates a posture of the human figure extracted by the extracting unit. The categorizing unit categorizes the posture of the human figure estimated by the estimating unit into a previously prepared pose. The recording control unit controls recording of the captured image on the basis of the pose that the posture of the human figure is categorized into by the categorizing unit. |
| US09560259B2 |
Image processing system with blur measurement and method of operation thereof
An image processing system and method of operation includes: an image processing device; an image capture module for capturing a source image on the image processing device; an assessment module for detecting an edge of the source image, and measuring an edge width measure of the edge; and a retrieving module for retrieving a depth of field from the edge width measure. |
| US09560258B2 |
Image sensing apparatus, image sensing system and focus detection method of detecting a focus position of a lens using image signal pair
An image sensing apparatus including: an image sensor including a plurality of focus detection pixel pairs that perform photoelectric conversion on each pair of light beams that have passed through different regions of a photographing lens and output an image signal pair; a flash memory that stores shift information on relative shift between an optical axis of the photographing lens and a central axis of the focus detection pixel pairs; a correction unit that corrects a signal level of the image signal pair based on the shift information and exit pupil information of the photographing lens so as to compensate for an unbalanced amount of light that enters each of the focus detection pixel pairs; and a focus detection unit that detects a focus of the photographing lens using the image signal pair corrected by the correction unit. |
| US09560257B2 |
Information processing system, information processing apparatus and method
The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus by which image data can be downloaded simply. A video camera 11 receives thumbnail images corresponding to one or more images included in an album from a video camera image station 41 and displays the thumbnail images on an LCD unit. If one or more images to be downloaded are selected, then the video camera 11 acquires image information of the selected image or images from a video camera image station 41, analyzes the image information and discriminates it one by one image whether or not the selected image data are downloadable. Every time one image is discriminated to be downloadable, the video camera 11 accesses a corresponding URL designated for each image, downloads the image from the URL and records the image onto a recording medium. The video camera 11 successively downloads the selected images in this manner. |
| US09560256B2 |
Image capture apparatus and image capture method in which an image is processed by a plurality of image processing devices
An image capture system is provided that increases processing speed after an image is captured and also increases the rate at which data is read from an image capture device during a shooting sequence. The image capture system includes an image capture device for capturing an object image and converting the captured object image into an electrical signal, a plurality of image processing devices, and a distribution device for distributing the electrical signal from the image capture device to the plurality of image processing devices. The plurality of image processing devices generate image signals by processing the electrical signal output from the distribution device and are provided in parallel with each other. Each of the plurality of image processing devices concurrently processes the electrical signal for one frame. |
| US09560254B2 |
Method and apparatus for activating a hardware feature of an electronic device
A method and apparatus for activating a hardware feature of an electronic device includes the electronic device detecting 302 a predetermined motion of the electronic device and measuring 304, in response to detecting the predetermined motion, an orientation of the electronic device. The method further includes the electronic device activating 306, based on the orientation, a hardware feature from a plurality of selectable hardware features of the electronic device, wherein each selectable hardware feature can be activated based on different orientations of the electronic device. |
| US09560252B1 |
Flash optimization for camera devices
Various embodiments include a camera system. The camera system can receive a command to photograph an environment utilizing a camera. The camera system can identify a plurality of flash settings for a flash system of the camera. The camera system can drive the flash system in a sequence of flashes respectively corresponding to the plurality of flash settings. The camera system can then capture consecutive images utilizing the camera. The capturing of the consecutive images can be synchronized against the sequence of flashes such that a device can later combine the consecutive images to generate a composite image that represents a virtual photograph of the environment. |
| US09560251B2 |
Image pickup apparatus
A light-emitting-part holder moves between a housing position in which the light-emitting-part holder is housed in a housing part formed in a strobe base and a light emission position in which the light-emitting-part holder projects from the housing part. One end of an arm member is supported by the light-emitting-part holder, and the other end thereof is supported by the strobe base. An arm cover member holds a magnet, and in a case where the arm member is housed in the housing part, the arm cover member is fixed to the face of the arm member facing the housing part. A part of a light-emitting-part flexible board (flexible wire member) is disposed between the magnet held by the arm cover member and the arm member. |
| US09560250B2 |
Information processing apparatus, measurement system, control system, light amount determination method and storage medium
There is provided with an information processing apparatus. Location information indicating an approximate location of a measurement target relative to a projection apparatus is obtained. The projection apparatus projects, onto the measurement target, projection light of a predetermined pattern composed of light rays travelling in respective directions. For respective travelling directions, incident regions of the measurement target on which the projection light is incident are estimated in accordance with the location information. Amounts of the projection light toward the respective travelling directions are determined such that light amounts of reflected light from the estimated incident regions toward an image capturing apparatus fall within a predetermined range. The image capturing apparatus captures an image of the measurement target onto which the projection light has been projected. |
| US09560249B2 |
Imaging apparatus having bending optical element
A bending imaging apparatus provided with an imaging optical system, a bending optical element, an image sensor positioned on a post-bending optical axis of the bending optical element, and a housing, includes an inclination adjusting body having a mounting plate portion, onto which the image sensor is mounted, and an inclination-adjusting bent plate portion extending toward an underside of the bending optical element from the mounting plate portion; a swing pivot portion formed between the inclination-adjusting bent plate portion and the housing to pivotally support the inclination adjusting body; and an inclination adjusting portion positioned between the inclination-adjusting bent plate portion and the housing to overlap the bending optical element with respect to the post-bending optical axis direction and swings the inclination adjusting body about the swing pivot portion to adjust an inclination of the inclination adjusting body. |
| US09560248B2 |
Camera module having two lens modules
A camera module can include a lens housing, an imaging unit and a driving motor. The lens housing can include a first lens module, a second lens module and a lens holder holding the first lens module and the second lens module. The imaging unit is located between the first lens module and the second lens module. The imaging unit is in optical alignment with the first lens module and the second lens module. The driving motor is coupled to the lens housing and configured to drive the lens housing to move relative to the imaging unit. When the driving motor drives the first lens module and the second lens module to move relative to the imaging unit, distance between the imaging unit and the first lens module is changed, or a distance between the imaging unit and the second lens module is changed. |
| US09560242B2 |
Method and device for the true-to-original representation of colors on screens
Described is a method and a device for screen calibration for the true-to-original reproduction of surface colors, the spectral reflection distribution of which is known, wherein by setting parameters the screen can be influenced using software and an electronic controller in each partial region of the screen. The disclosure is characterized in that an observer adapts the reproduced color impression of the screen to the color impression of an original in each partial region of the screen, wherein the original is compared to the screen colors immediately thereafter on the screen surface and the screen parameters are varied until the color impressions of the original and of the screen appear identical to the observer on the respectively viewed partial screen, viewed from a predefined observer angle, and the settings performed are stored in a screen profile. |
| US09560239B2 |
Method and apparatus for generating dots in image reproduction
This invention discloses a method and apparatus for generating dots in image reproduction, and relates to the field of image reproduction in the printing industry. The method comprises performing a binarization process on a threshold matrix of one or more basic dots according to level thresholds to obtain a set of level-binarization matrixes corresponding to the threshold matrix; determining substitution binarization matrixes and auxiliary binarization matrixes from the set of level-binarization matrixes; performing a Boolean operation on the substitution binarization matrixes and the auxiliary binarization matrixes to generate resulted binarization matrixes; substituting binarization matrixes to be substituted in the set of level-binarization matrixes with the resulted binarization matrixes; and according to the substituted set of level-binarization matrixes, forming a substituted threshold matrix, and generating shape-varied dots according to the substituted threshold matrix. The shapes of dots with some grayscale in basic dots are changed by Boolean calculation among binarization matrices, thereby achieving the purposes of changing the overall shape of the basic dots and constructing dots with complicated shapes using dots with simple shapes, so that it is simple and easy to implement. |
| US09560236B2 |
Image reading apparatus, control method, storage medium, and system
An image reading apparatus having a front surface reading unit for reading a front surface of a document and a back surface reading unit for reading a back surface of the document performs adjustment processing in such a manner that start positions of the obtained image data of the front surface and the back surface are each at a position corresponding to an integer multiple of a coding block, and encodes front-and-back combined image data that is based on the adjusted image data of the front surface and the back surface. The image reading apparatus then transmits the encoded front-and-back combined image data, first position information indicating an end edge of the image data of the front surface in the front-and-back combined image data, and second position information indicating an end edge of the image data of the back surface in the front-and-back combined image data. |
| US09560235B2 |
Image scanning apparatus and image reading method using a first reading head for a first scanning position and second reading head for a second scanning position
An image scanning apparatus has a conveyer, a first scanning device configured to scan an image on one surface of an original sheet at a first scanning position, a second scanning device configured to scan an image on an other surface of the original sheet at a second scanning position. A controller is configured to execute a first adjustment process to adjust light amount adjustment of the first scanning device before scanning the original sheet subject to the received scanning instruction, start scanning after the first adjustment process, execute a determination process to determine, after starting conveying the original sheet, whether a light adjustment of the second scanning device is to be executed, execute a second adjustment process, when it is determined to start the light adjustment of the second scanning device, and stop conveying the original sheet when no original sheet is located at the first scanning position. |
| US09560234B2 |
Image reading device and image forming apparatus
An image reading device includes a support table that supports a document; a light source that is supported movably along the support table between a reading start position set near one end of the support table and a reading end position set near the other end of the support table and that irradiates the document with light; a reading member that reads an image based on reflected light from the document; and an image composing unit that composes read image information based on a first image read by the reading member and a second image based on light reflected from the document in a direction different from a direction of the first image. |
| US09560232B2 |
Image processing apparatus, method of controlling the same, and storage medium for configuring a reconfigurable device
In an image processing apparatus including a reconfigurable device, a plurality of configuration data items for configuring a circuit for realizing a predetermined function in the reconfigurable device and for arranging and wiring the respective circuit at differing locations of the device to each other are stored in a memory, and operation information is obtained and accumulated based on an operation time of the circuit for realizing the predetermined function each time a job using the circuit for realizing the predetermined function is executed. Then, when the accumulated value exceeds a threshold, the circuit for realizing the predetermined function is configured in the reconfigurable device using other configuration data corresponding to the circuit for realizing the predetermined function and stored in the memory. |
| US09560231B2 |
Image output system, information processing device, and authentication device
An information processing terminal transmits, to an authentication server, information obtained by imaging a code pattern of multifunction device information, and authentication information inputted by a user. The authentication server performs user authentication based on the received authentication information and specifies a multifunction device based on the received information of the code pattern. If the user has been authenticated, the authentication server transmits print data corresponding to the user to the multifunction device and prescribes the execution of print processing to the multifunction device. The multifunction device executes print process based on the obtained print data. |
| US09560230B2 |
Image forming apparatus, control method for the same and storage medium
An image forming apparatus of this invention includes abbreviated keys that realize abbreviated input of a transmission destination, an openable cover provided so as to cover the abbreviated keys, and first and second cover open/closed detection switches configured to output an open state and a closed state of the cover. When an operation of an abbreviated key is received, if the first and second cover open/closed detection switches indicate different detection results, mismatch information indicating that different output has been occurred from the first and second cover open/closed detection switches is stored in a non-volatile storage unit, and the image forming apparatus is restarted. |
| US09560228B2 |
Document reading apparatus, control method in document reading apparatus, and storage medium
A document reading apparatus includes a conveying unit to convey a document, a reading unit to read an image of the conveyed document, a detecting unit to detect multi-feed of the conveyed document, a setting unit, a stopping unit, and a displaying unit. The setting unit makes a setting indicating whether, based on detecting multi-feed of the document, conveyance of the document is to stop. The stopping unit stops conveyance of the document where the made setting indicates that, in response to detecting multi-feed of the document, the conveyance of the document is to stop. Where the made setting indicates that, in response to detecting multi-feed of the document, the conveyance of the document is to stop, the displaying unit displays a screen for receiving, from a user, an instruction not to stop conveyance of the document, even in a case where the detecting unit detects multi-feed of the document. |
| US09560226B2 |
Cover portion of image reading apparatus and image forming apparatus
An image reading apparatus includes an apparatus body, a document sheet cover, a magnetic force generating portion, and a magnetic force control portion. The apparatus body has a document placement surface. The document sheet cover is supported by the apparatus body so as to be pivotable between an open position where the document placement surface is uncovered and a closed position where the document placement surface is covered with the document sheet cover. The magnetic force generating portion is able to selectively generate a magnetic attraction force and a magnetic repulsion force between a pair of a permanent magnet and an electromagnet provided in the cover portion and the apparatus body, respectively. The magnetic force control portion switches the magnetic force generating portion between a state where the magnetic force generating portion generates the attraction force and a state where the magnetic force generating portion generates the repulsion force. |
| US09560224B2 |
Remote control device, remote operation device, screen transmission control method, and non-transitory computer-readable recording medium encoded with screen display control program
A remote control device remotely controlled by a remote operation device includes an operation screen transmission portion to transmit an operation screen to the remote operation device; and a changed area decision portion to decide on an area in a second operation screen that is different from a first operation screen, as a changed area, in a stage before the operation screen transmission portion transmits the second operation screen subsequently to the first operation screen. The operation screen transmission portion includes a supplemental information transmission portion to transmit supplemental information including a command to display the changed area in full screen, together with the second operation screen. |
| US09560223B2 |
Personal photographer mobile application
A photographic exchange network may allow individuals taking photographs to share those photographs with other individuals having their photograph taken. An example technique may include receiving an indication of a physical location of a first user and, responsive to receiving the indication of the physical location of the first user, determining at least a second user at the physical location of the first user. The example technique may also include transmitting information identifying the first user to a mobile device associated with the second user and then receiving an image of the first user from the mobile device associated with the second user. |
| US09560217B2 |
Adapters, terminal devices, USB connection devices and charging stations
Adapters, terminal devices, USB connection devices and charging stations are disclosed. The adapter includes a first port configured to connect to an alternate current (AC) source, a conversion module configured to convert an AC power from the AC source into a direct current (DC) power, a second port configured to connect to a first electronic device and provide power thereto, an uplink interface configured to connect to the first electronic device, a downlink interface coupled with the conversion module to obtain an external power supply therefrom and configured to connect to a second electronic device, and a signal control module arranged between the uplink and downlink interfaces, and configured to control a status of a signal in the downlink interface based on a status of a power supply of the uplink interface. The second electronic device enters one of the operating and charging modes based on the status of the signal in the downlink interface, when the second electronic device is coupled with the downlink interface. With the present invention, charging of an electronic device which can be charged only upon recognizing the signal line status of the downlink interface can be enabled even if a computer is powered off or in a sleep state. |
| US09560215B2 |
System, method, and computer-readable medium for rebilling a carrier bill
A computerized method and system for rebilling a carrier bill is disclosed. The method includes receiving one or more carrier bills for a plurality of mobile phones at a processor, receiving a selection of a ratio for distributing the total fee amongst the plurality of mobile phones from an administrator device at the processor, determining, with the processor, an average cost per mobile phone based on the ratio multiplied by the total fee and divided a total number of mobile phones in the plurality of mobile phones, determining, with the processor, a cost-per-time for each of the plurality of mobile phones based on one minus the ratio multiplied by the usage time of each of the plurality of mobile phones and divided by a total minutes, and determining, with the processor, a total cost for any of the plurality of mobile phones. |
| US09560214B1 |
Portable data for mobile devices
Network devices register a mobile device to use mobile data with a service provider network and create a default account for the mobile device. The network devices receive, via the mobile device, user credentials to activate a portable data service for the mobile device, and determine that the user credentials correspond to an existing account that is different than the default account for the mobile device. The network devices assign, to the existing account, a temporary mobile directory number (MDN); map the temporary MDN to a unique identifier for the mobile device; and log mobile data use, by the mobile device, using the temporary MDN. The network devices detect a signal to deactivate the portable data service for the mobile device; and creating a billing record based on the logging and associated with the existing account. |
| US09560213B2 |
Vehicle communication system, on-board unit, recording medium and communication method
A communication system includes an on-board unit adapted to a vehicle-vehicle communication and roadside equipment 10 performing a roadside-vehicle communication. In communications in service channels of the vehicle-vehicle communication, one reception-only service channel in which the on-board unit only performs a reception operation is provided for a plurality of the service channels and communications in the reception-only service channel is performed at the same frequency as that of the control channels of the roadside-vehicle communication. When the vehicle-vehicle communication is performed, the on-board unit performs switching to the roadside-vehicle communication in response to detection of reception in the reception-only service channel of a radio signal transmitted from the roadside equipment 10 in a control channel of the roadside-vehicle communication. |
| US09560212B2 |
Enhanced QOS control in PCRF
The embodiments herein relate to a method in a Policy and Charging Rules Function, PCRF, node (320), for handling User Equipment-Aggregated Maximum Bit Rate, UE-AMBR, for a wireless device (305) in a communications network (300). The PCRF node (320) comprises a direct interface (317) with a Mobility Management Entity/Serving General packet radio service Support Node, MME/SGSN (308). The PCRF node (320) receives a subscribed UE-AMBR from the MME/SGSN (308) using the direct interface (317). The subscribed UE-AMBR is associated with a wireless device subscription. When triggered, the PCRF node (320) calculates a UE-AMBR based on the subscribed UE-AMBR and based policies associated with the wireless device (305). The PCRF node (320) transmits the calculated UE-AMBR to the MME/SGSN (308) using the direct interface (317). |
| US09560211B2 |
Error handling for CDR transport within an offline charging system
Systems and methods that provide error handling for CDR transport. One embodiment comprises a CGF of an offline charging system. The CGF receives an initial CDR transfer request from a CDF, identifies a data record value inserted in the initial CDR transfer request by the CDF to indicate a number of CDRs in the initial CDR transfer request, and counts the CDRs contained in the initial CDR transfer request. The CGF compares the count of CDRs contained in the initial CDR transfer request with the number of CDRs indicated by the CDF, and rejects the initial CDR transfer request if the count of CDRs does not match the number of CDRs indicated by the CDF. The CGF then assembles a CDR transfer response that includes a cause value indicating a count mismatch, and sends the CDR transfer response to the CDF. |
| US09560204B1 |
Systems and methods for authentication of customers
A computer-implemented method and system for authenticating identification of a customer during interaction with a company representative. Data is received and stored relating to the customer at a computer. The data includes one or more identification attributes associated with the customer and one or more authentication data attributes associated with the customer. An interaction is commenced between the customer and the company representative. Captured is one or more identification attributes and authentication data attributes relating to customer from the interaction between the customer and the company representative. The customer is identified by matching a captured identification attribute with a stored identification attribute. The customer is authenticated by matching a captured authentication data attribute with a like stored authentication data attribute associated with the identified customer. |
| US09560202B2 |
Automatic contact center administration updates based on acceptance of a broadcast request
Methods and systems for automatically implementing contact center administration updates based on acceptance of a broadcast request are provided. In particular, a request can be broadcast to a target audience. Acceptance of the request by members of the target audience automatically implements changes defined in connection with the request for accepting agents. The broadcast request can be recalled under certain conditions. In addition, the action or actions implemented in response to the acceptance of the request can be undone under various conditions. |
| US09560200B2 |
Method and device for obtaining voice service
The present disclosure discloses a method and device for obtaining a voice service. The method includes: obtaining information on a service process corresponding to a service number of a call, wherein the information on the service process comprises input prompt information for each stage of the service process, and the input prompt information is used to prompt a user for input; displaying, after getting through the call, the input prompt information of the service process; receiving an input signal from the user in response to the input prompt information; and sending the input signal to an automatic voice service system to obtain a service therefrom. The method and device avoid the problems that the user does not know what kind of response signal should be input to continue the query until he or she hears the whole voice prompt information. |
| US09560196B2 |
Computer-implemented system and method for determining call connection status
A computer-implemented system and method for determining call connection status is provided. A call initiated by a calling party to a receiving party is monitored. Metadata associated with the receiving party is obtained upon reaching a ring tone of the receiving party. An identity of the receiving party is determined via the metadata. A connection with the receiving party is determined to be secure during the call when the metadata comprises a security certificate. A status of the secure connection is provided to each of the calling party and the receiving party. |
| US09560191B2 |
Method and arrangement for determining a charging of a battery of a user device
This disclosure relates to a method, and a network node for determining a charging of a battery of a user device. Network traffic of the user device is monitored, where the network traffic comprises network traffic of an application and/or a service of the user device. A network traffic pattern is identified for the monitored network traffic and a battery-charging event is detected based on the identified network traffic pattern. Charging of the battery is determined of the user device, based on the detected battery-charging event. These features and operations offer a number of advantages. For example, they allow a network operator to implement detection of battery-charging events using the operator's current network setup, because the teachings herein require no changes to existing network deployments, nor are additional protocols needed. |
| US09560190B2 |
Mobile phone with touch panel for responding to incoming calls
A mobile phone is disclosed. The mobile phone includes a touch panel, a correspondence execution determination part, and a correspondence selection part. The correspondence execution determination part determines whether or not to correspond with respect to an incoming call from other telephone, in response to an input from the touch panel. The correspondence selection part, when the correspondence execution determination part determines to correspond with respect to the incoming call from the other telephone, in response to the input from the touch panel, selects to at least answer the incoming call or ignore the incoming call. |
| US09560188B2 |
Electronic device and method for displaying phone call content
An electronic device and method for displaying phone call content are provided. The electronic device includes a communication unit configured to transmit and receive voice data during a phone call connection, an audio unit configured to input and output voice data, an input unit configured to receive a user input, a controller configured to determine whether a connected phone call corresponds to an automatic response system (ARS) phone call, and convert received voice data into text data when the connected phone call corresponds to the ARS phone call, and a display unit configured to display the converted text data. |
| US09560185B2 |
Hybrid telecommunications network connection indicator
A mobile device having capabilities to access connections to cellular and Wi-Fi portions of a hybrid telecommunications network is configured to display a variety of different icons that graphically indicate a current connection status for both data usage and voice calling on a graphical user interface (GUI). A user can put the GUI into an expanded state to show additional information about the connection status including textual descriptions of icons to instruct the user as to the specific meaning of a given icon. The textual descriptions enable an association between the iconography and the connection state to be established for the user. The icons can then quickly and effectively convey connection state to the user in a comprehensive manner while efficiently using the available display space on the device. |
| US09560180B2 |
Systems and methods for adjusting carrier quality metrics for intrinsic impairments
An Internet protocol (IP) telephony system terminates calls to certain groups of telephone numbers via multiple different telephony carriers. The IP telephony system will discontinue using a telephony carrier to terminate calls if the quality provided by the carrier falls below a threshold level. The IP telephony system includes a quality monitoring unit that determines when a particular group of telephone numbers are intrinsically impaired, such that no carrier could provide high quality when terminating calls to those numbers. In these circumstances, the IP telephony system adjusts the quality threshold to which a carrier's quality is compared when completing calls to the impaired numbers to account for the intrinsic impairment of the telephone numbers. |
| US09560179B2 |
Foldable curved wireless communication device for insertion into hip pocket
A mobile communication device which comprises a first member with first surface having a first curvature and a second surface having a second curvature; a second member having first surface with a third curvature and a second surface with a fourth curvature. A hinge pivotally connects the first and second members with one another such that they are movable between opened and closed configurations. The first and the second curvatures of the first member combine with one another and form a combined average curvature for the first member and the third and the fourth curvatures of the second member combine with one another and form a combined average curvature for the second member. The combined average curvature for the first member and the combined average curvature for the second member combine with one another to form a combined average curvature for the communication device which is 8 feet or less. |
| US09560177B2 |
Network system and network flow tracing method
A switch apparatus includes a storage storing a table, the table including rules and actions corresponding to the rules, and a controller including a memory storing instructions, and a processor configured to execute the instructions to receive the rules and the actions from a control apparatus, identify, based on the rules, a received packet, duplicate a part of a header of the identified packet as an additional header when the identified packet includes a target of encapsulation, encapsulate the identified packet by the additional header, and process, based on the actions, the identified packet. |
| US09560176B2 |
Correlating packets in communications networks
A computing system may identify packets received by a network device from a host located in a first network and may generate log entries corresponding to the packets received by the network device. The computing system may identify packets transmitted by the network device to a host located in a second network and may generate log entries corresponding to the packets transmitted by the network device. Utilizing the log entries corresponding to the packets received by the network device and the log entries corresponding to the packets transmitted by the network device, the computing system may correlate the packets transmitted by the network device with the packets received by the network device. |
| US09560171B2 |
Method and apparatus for transmitting a multimedia data packet
A method and an apparatus for transmitting a multimedia data packet are provided. The method includes generating Media Abstraction Layer (MAL) information for abstracting information on the multimedia data to be transmitted, generating a multimedia data packet including said MAL information, and transmitting the generated multimedia data packet to a network entity. |
| US09560170B2 |
System and method of abstracting communication protocol using self-describing messages
A system and method for abstracting communication protocol using self-describing messages. The method includes providing a first communication protocol having control codes and binary messages having a self-describing schema of a data object model. The method includes providing a second communication protocol where instances of the second communication protocol are associatively mapped to the instances of the first communication protocol. The method includes receiving a message in the second communication protocol. The method includes classifying the message as being either a control message or a data message and translating it to a second message where upon the message has been classified as a control message, the processor maps the control message to one or more control codes and where upon the message has been classified as a data message, the processor maps the data message to a corresponding binary message having the self-describing schema. |
| US09560168B2 |
Methods and apparatus for providing one-arm node clustering using a port channel
Methods and apparatus for providing one-arm node clustering using a port channel are provided herein. An example application node may be communicatively connected to at least one application node, and the application node may be connected to a network through a port channel. The application node may include: a link included in the port channel for accommodating the network data being communicated between the remote client and server; and a processor configured to send/receive a cluster control packet to/from the at least one application node through the link included in the port channel. |
| US09560165B2 |
BT offline data download system and method, and computer storage medium
A BT offline data download system and method, and a computer storage medium with instructions to perform BT offline data download are provided. The system may include an offline download task management server that may receive a download task. The system may also include an offline download scheduling server that may perform arrangement and combination processing on the download task. An offline download server may then download data according to the download task. The data may correspond to a subset of files after the arrangement and combination processing, and store the downloaded data in a storage server. A download client device may download, from the storage server, the downloaded data of the subset of files corresponding to the download task. The subset of files may be selected by a user to be obtained at the download client device. |
| US09560164B2 |
Image processing apparatus, method of controlling the same, non-transitory computer readable storage medium, and data processing apparatus
An image processing apparatus, comprises: a dynamic portion reconfiguration unit configured to be able to reconfigure an internal circuit configuration dynamically and partially; and a reconfiguration control unit which controls the reconfiguration of the circuit configuration by the dynamic portion reconfiguration unit; wherein one or more processing circuits configured in the dynamic portion reconfiguration unit are each configured to include a data processing unit and a parameter holding unit for holding a parameter used for processing by the data processing unit, and for the parameter holding unit, a circuit configuration corresponding to a parameter corresponding to a setting in the processing by the data processing unit is defined, and the reconfiguration control unit, in accordance with a modification of the setting in the processing by the data processing unit, reconfigures only the circuit configuration of the parameter holding unit. |
| US09560161B2 |
Resource request management
A resource management system may use information regarding the bandwidth status of a downstream communication path to determine what portion of queued content should be sent in the current available bandwidth timeslot. In some embodiments, multiple versions of the same requested content may be available, and the system may select a lower-quality version to send if needed to meet a time deadline included in the original content request. |
| US09560160B1 |
Prioritization of the delivery of different portions of an image file
Prioritizing delivery of different portions of images is disclosed, including: receiving a request for an image file; identifying a cluster of characterized images in an N-dimensional space to which the image file belongs; assigning a split point to the image file that is associated with the identified cluster of characterized images; and prioritizing a delivery of a first portion and a second portion of the image file based at least in part on the assigned split point. |
| US09560158B2 |
Social networking using local area networks
A local area networking method includes a receiving by a system server unique identifiers associated with the first mobile device and other devices of a local area network. The system server correlates a listing of user identifiers and user profiles with the unique identifiers received from the first mobile device. The system server then communicates the listing of user identifiers and user profiles correlated with the unique identifiers to the first mobile device. A user of the first mobile device is thereby permitted to view the user identifiers and user profiles relating to the other devices registered with the system server, including the other devices in the local area network. The system server may further receive a geographical location of the local area network from the first mobile device, and associate one of a data file and an executable file from the first mobile device with the geographical location. |
| US09560157B1 |
Managing shareable content in a social network
Methods are presented for managing shareable content articles in a social network. One of the methods includes receiving a plurality of articles from a publisher for access to selected users in the social network. In one example, the received articles are identified as having premium content. Each of the received articles is assigned a sharing parameter that includes a sharing threshold. The method further includes receiving a request from a first user, who is identified from the selected users of the social network, to share an article identified from the plurality of received articles with a second user in the social network, and providing the second user with access to the article when the sharing threshold is satisfied. The article is presented to the second user with supplemental content. |
| US09560156B1 |
System and method for coaching a user on a website
Methods and systems for coaching an end user are disclosed. Information related to a user profile and/or user activity of an end user is collected in a memory. An analysis engine analyzes information against a metric. A metric may represent or include one or more characteristics of a (typical) successful end user. Said metric may be statistically determined in various ways. A rules engine generates a coaching message for output to the end user if the information does not meet the metric, wherein the one or more coaching messages provokes (or suggests) the end user to change the user profile and/or the user activity of the end user to meet the metric. |
| US09560153B2 |
Method for continuous, frame-specific click-stream recording
A method for tracking a user's movements between network addresses can include, subsequent to a request for a (current) network address from a user, receiving the network address and an identifier for a region associated with the network address. The method can also include locating a record that contains the identifier for the region and a time that immediately precedes the request for the network address from the user. The record may further contain a prior network address. The method can further include generating an entry for a table that includes the identifier for the region, the current network address, and the prior network address. A server computer or a client computer can generate the entry. Improved accountability and improved user profile accuracy can be obtained with the method. A data processing system readable medium can comprise code that includes instructions for carrying out the method. |
| US09560152B1 |
Personalized summary of online communications
A method for generating an output of users that are communicating online in which one or more processors gathers data of topics of interest for each group member. One or more processors receive content of an online communication session and sends the content to a cognitive engine to determine the topic and summary information of the session. The cognitive engine sends the topic to a graphic engine to obtain a pictorial representation of the topic. One or more processors receive the summary information and pictorial representation and generates personalizes summaries for the group members based on the interests determined for each group member from prior online sessions. |
| US09560146B2 |
Apparatus and method for data-tag based object-to-object applications
The present invention relates to a method and system for data tagging in the field of computer technologies. In this method, a user terminal acquires tag data, obtains information about services and functions associated with the tag data, then interacts with target servers to exchange service and function information, and fulfills appropriate services and functions to complete the business application. The disclosed data tagging method and system allow user terminal to interact with directly target servers that are associated with relevant services and functions, which allows functions to be realized in distributed target servers, which simplifies the implementations of tag data, reducing the cost to setting servers. The disclosed data tagging methods allow more extensive applications of data tagging, improved user experiences, simplified processes, and lower costs. |
| US09560144B2 |
Apparatus and method for processing packets
An apparatus and method for processing packets are disclosed. The apparatus for processing packets includes a session processing unit, a parallel processing unit, and a storage unit. The session processing unit divides a packet group, including a plurality of HTTP packets, into a plurality of session files, and then distributes the session files. The parallel processing unit generates metadata and extracts content from each of the distributed session files based on the plurality of session files. The storage unit stores the metadata generated by the parallel processing unit and the content extracted by the parallel processing unit. |
| US09560139B2 |
Train communication network
An access point for a communication network is disclosed. The access point may have a communications processor configured to receive signals from a different access point of the communication network, and at least a first attenuator configured to selectively attenuate the signals before they are received by the communications processor. The access point may also have a voltage clamp configured to limit a strength of the signals before they are received by the at least a first attenuator, and a second attenuator configured to attenuate all signals before they are received by the voltage clamp. |
| US09560137B1 |
Optimizing remote direct memory access (RDMA) with cache aligned operations
A system for optimizing remote direct memory accesses (RDMA) is provided. The system includes a first computing device and a second computing device disposed in signal communication with the first computing device. The first and second computing devices are respectively configured to exchange RDMA credentials during a setup of a communication link between the first and second computing devices. The exchanged RDMA credentials include cache line size information of the first computing device by which a cache aligned RDMA write operation is executable on a cache of the first computing device in accordance with the cache line size information by the second computing device. |
| US09560135B2 |
Technique for communication between networks for distributing digital contents
A method is provided for communication, which is implemented by an interfacing device of a server of a first network for distributing digital content. The method includes: receiving a content ingestion request emitted by a device of a second network for distributing content, with a view to storage of the content in the second distribution network; and when the first distribution network is not able to respond to the request, dispatching an enquiry destined for at least one third network for distributing content, requesting a transfer of the content to the second distribution network. The first distribution network delegates the transfer of the content. The third distribution network then transfers the digital content to the second content distribution network. |
| US09560133B2 |
Acquiring multi-media content
A method begins by a dispersed storage (DS) processing module receiving a first sub-set of encoded data slices, wherein a data segment of multi-media content was encoded using a dispersed storage error coding function to produce a set of encoded data slices, wherein the set of encoded data slices is partitioned into the first sub-set of encoded data slices and a second sub-set of encoded data slices. The method continues with the DS processing module sending accessing information when the second sub-set of encoded data slices is to be requested. The method continues with the DS processing module receiving, in response to the accessing information, at least one of the encoded data slices of the second sub-set of encoded data slices such that a decode threshold number of encoded data slices have been received. |
| US09560132B1 |
Method and system for transferring the hosting of financial service to elastic virtual computing resources from a data center and without service interruption
A method and system transfers the hosting of financial services to a virtual asset computing environment from a hardware asset computing environment, according to one embodiment. The method and system transfers a secondary copy of application data to a storage device, and delivers the storage device to a second computing system from the first computing system using a parcel courier, according to one embodiment. The method and system receives, with the second computing system, the secondary copy of the application data from the storage device, and configures virtual assets to execute a second instance of the financial services application to enable the second computing system to provide the financial services to the multiple users, according to one embodiment. The method and system configures the second computing system as a primary service provider, according to one embodiment. |
| US09560128B2 |
Sharing a file through a metadata representation of the file
The use of logic for routing data. Metadata that is associated with data residing on a first computing system is sent to at least a second computing system. The metadata is structured so that when interpreted by the second system, the second system provides an appearance that the data is local. The first system then receives a communication from the second computing system, demonstrating that a user has interacted with the appearance of data on the second system. Logic may be applied to determine how and when to send the data to the second system. Based on the determination made by applying logic, the data is sent to the second system in a manner that is associated with the identifier for the entire data. |
| US09560127B2 |
Systems, methods and algorithms for logical movement of data objects
The present disclosure relates generally to the field of logical movement of data objects. In various examples, the logical movement of data objects may reduce or eliminate network hotspots (e.g., avoid formation of hotspots, remove existing hotspots and/or reduce the magnitude of hotspots). In various examples, the logical movement of data objects may be implemented in the form of systems, methods and/or algorithms. |
| US09560122B1 |
Secure native application messaging with a browser application
A system for securely mediating messages between a native application and a browser application on a computing device includes running the browser application and a browser process that controls access by the browser-based application to the native resource. The browser process may use a data file distributed with the native application to allow or deny communications between the browser-based application and the native application. When communications are allowed the browser-based application accesses the native resource via the native application. In one implementation, the browser process may initiate a native messaging host and send communication requests to the native messaging host. The data file may be downloaded with the native application or separately from the native application from a site that distributes the native application or a site controlled by the developer of the native application. The data file identifies browser-based applications allowed to communicate with the native application. |
| US09560114B2 |
Message switch file sharing
Embodiments relate to message switch file sharing. A file is accessed by a computer processor of a client producer device to share with a plurality of client consumer devices across a network. The computer processor partitions the file into a sequence of message payloads associated with a topic and a scheme. The scheme defines a sequence identifier to establish an order to reassemble the sequence of message payloads into the file. A sequence of messages is formed including the topic and the sequence of message payloads. The sequence of messages is published to a message queue associated with the topic in a message switch in the network. The message switch provides the client consumer devices with access to the sequence of message payloads based on subscriptions to the topic. |
| US09560113B2 |
Optimizing server delivery of content by selective inclusion of optional data based on optimization criteria
Optimization constraints are used to select an appropriate content item from an available group of content items which are ordered in a specific manner to facilitate the proper selection of the content item, even if the exact item desired is not present. The server is then able to insert the selected content item into the outgoing content page requested by the client. The optimization constraints can be, but are not limited to, anyone of the following: communication channel performance (bandwidth), client operating system, client processor, client display capabilities, client installed software (video or audio codecs for example), and/or user preferences. A software product and method enable selective delivery of content to client devices of varying performance characteristics, including varying bandwidth, by selective filtering and inclusion of markup language content using tags demarcating optional content. An optimization constraint is used to select one of the items. |
| US09560112B2 |
Method for operating field devices
A method to operate field devices using an operating device with a touch-sensitive input and/or display area via which, for the purpose of operation, a field-device-dependent main menu level is displayed with multiple segments and at least one first segmentation level, which is assigned to a specific segment. A zoom function is used to increase or reduce the size of a selected segment of the main menu level and change the transparency of the main menu level and the transparency of the first segmentation level so that the transparency of the main menu level increases and the transparency of the first segmentation level decreases when the user zooms in such that the first segmentation level becomes visible. The transparency of the main menu level decreases and the transparency of the first segmentation level increases when the user zooms out such that the main menu level becomes visible such that switching takes place between the main menu level and the first segmentation level assigned to the desired segment. |
| US09560108B2 |
Providing a mobile access point
Disclosed are methods and apparatus for providing an access point for connection to the Internet. The methods may be performed using one or more user devices (e.g. smartphones or other mobile communications devices) which may be part of a residential Local Area Network or “home” network. A user device may detect that a connection to the Internet via a first access point is unavailable. This connection may be via a residential gateway. In response to the detection that Internet connectivity via the first access point is unavailable, a user device (e.g. the same or different user device) may activate a second access point (e.g. a wireless or mobile access point) to the Internet for use by other user devices. Other user devices may then connect to the Internet using this second access point. The second access point may be de-activated if Internet connectivity via the first access point is re-established. |
| US09560103B2 |
Custom video content
A segment is defined in an item of media content. A first file is received that includes content to be added to the segment. A second file is received that includes depth information related to the first file. The depth information is used to extract, from the first file, the content to be added to the segment. The extracted content is added to the media segment. |
| US09560101B2 |
Method and device with intelligent media management
A method (300) and device (200) with intelligent media management is disclosed. The method (300) can include: streaming (310) media content in a wireless communication device; identifying (320) a media signature of the streamed media content; searching (330) a stored library for the identified media signature; and playing (340) locally stored media content, if the search results in finding a match with the identified media signature in the stored library. Thus, when a match occurs, locally stored media content replaces the streamed media content, to provide substantially lower power consumption and enhanced battery life in connection with wireless communication devices. |
| US09560099B2 |
Systems and methods for group communication using a mobile device using motion and voice activate controls
Methods and systems of communication using a mobile device include detecting the voice of a user of the mobile device, and sending a request to a server for control of the floor in a group communication in response to the detected voice. Further methods of controlling floor access for a plurality of mobile devices include receiving voice commands of a user from the plurality of mobile devices, scheduling floor access for the mobile devices in response to the received voice commands, and sending messages to the mobile devices indicating the status of floor control in a group communication session. Further methods of group communication include detecting a motion of a mobile device corresponding to a user action, in response to the detected motion, initiating a half-duplex group communication application, and displaying visual feedback associated with the half-duplex group communication application on a display screen of the mobile device. |
| US09560097B2 |
Data management system and method
A method and computing system for receiving an indication of a first photo being uploaded to a web-based resource. A first capture date is determined for the first photo. A first object is associated with the first photo. The first object is positioned within a graphical representation of a calendar based, at least in part, upon the first capture date. |
| US09560094B2 |
System and method for identifying and analyzing personal context of a user
A method and system for identifying personal context of a user having a portable mobile communication device at a particular location for deriving social interaction information of the user, wherein the user within a predefined range is identified using personal context of the user at the particular location and the identified personal context of the user is assigned with the confidence value. Further the current location information of the user within the particular location is obtained by fusing assigned confidence value. Further the proximity of the user in the current location is estimated by finding the accurate straight line distance between users. Further the two users having similar current location information at the particular location are grouped together with the predefined density criteria. Finally the social interaction information of the user is derived by multimodal sensor data fusion at the fusion engine and represented using a human network graph. |
| US09560092B2 |
Crowdsourced image analysis platform
A crowdsourced search and locate platform, comprising an application server and a client interface application. The application server: receives connections from crowdsourcing participants; navigates a first crowdsourcing participant to a specific geospatial location; sends an image corresponding to the geospatial location to the first crowdsourcing participant; receives tagging data from the first crowdsourcing participant, the tagging data corresponding to a plurality of objects and locations identified by the first crowdsourcing participant. The client interface application: displays an image of a location; displays icons corresponding to objects that may be tagged; displays a navigation minimap adapted to allow a user to navigate; and upon the user's selecting a cursor location at which to place a new tag corresponding to a specific object type, displays a shape surrounding the cursor location, the effective radius of which is configurable and is adapted to define a region about the cursor location within which other tags by other users are considered to be in agreement with the new tag. |
| US09560083B2 |
Service denial and termination on a wireless network
A method and system are provided for denying an application service request, such as a Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS) request, on wireless and wireline Internet Protocol (IP) Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) networks or Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) networks. In one example, the method includes receiving a request for an application service from a user via a transport network, determining to deny the request, and providing a response corresponding to the denial of the request to the user via the transport network. |
| US09560082B2 |
Method and network device establishing a binding between a plurality of separate sessions in a network
The present invention relates to networks, in particular to communication networks. Moreover, the present invention relates to a method, to network devices, to a computer program product and to a computer-readable medium for establishing a binding for separate sessions. According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention there is provided a method for establishing a binding between a plurality of separate sessions, the method comprises storing a first identity of a first level, storing a second identity of a second level, providing a correspondence between the first identity and the second identity, extracting the second identity from a first message, retrieving the stored first identity on the basis of the extracted second identity and establishing a binding between a first session of the first level and a second session of the second level on the basis of the retrieved first identity. |
| US09560081B1 |
Data network microsegmentation
Methods and systems for microsegmentation of data networks are provided herein. Exemplary methods include: receiving a high-level declarative policy; getting metadata associated with a plurality of containers from an orchestration layer; determining a low-level firewall rule set using the high-level declarative policy and the metadata; and configuring by a plurality of enforcement points a respective virtual switch of a plurality of virtual switches to process packets in accordance with the low-level firewall ruleset, the virtual switches being collectively communicatively coupled to the plurality of containers, such that network communications between a first group of containers and a second group of containers of the plurality of containers are not permitted, and communications between containers of the first group of containers are permitted. |
| US09560076B2 |
Secure trust-scored distributed multimedia collaboration session
A device may receive a request for a collaboration session. The device may authenticate a user for the collaboration session. The device may generate a trust-score associated with the collaboration session based on authenticating the user. The trust-score may be associated with a security level for the collaboration session. The security level may be associated with one or more capabilities of the collaboration session. The device may assign the user to a session role associated with the collaboration session. The session role may be associated with the one or more capabilities of the collaboration session. The device may provide information associated with the collaboration session based on the security level for the collaboration session and/or the session role assigned to the user. |
| US09560075B2 |
Cognitive honeypot
An electronic communication evaluating device determines a suspicion level for an initial electronic communication. The initial electronic communication is addressed to an addressed entity that is associated with an electronic communication receiver. In response to the suspicion level exceeding a predetermined level, a communication switching device reroutes the initial electronic communication from the addressed entity to a cognitive honeypot. The cognitive honeypot transmits, to the electronic communication transmitting system, emulation electronic communications that emulate the addressed entity until a predefined state of the communication session occurs. |
| US09560074B2 |
Systems and methods of identifying suspicious hostnames
A method includes receiving a set of strings and applying one or more filters to generate a subset of strings that are determined to correspond to strings of interest. The method also includes retrieving domain name system (DNS) information associated with a first string of the subset. The method includes executing a rule-based engine to determine, based on application of one or more rules to the DNS information, whether to add the first string to a set of suspicious hostnames. |
| US09560073B2 |
Reconfigurable antenna based solutions for device authentication and intrusion detection in wireless networks
Channel based authentication schemes for intrusion detection that operates at the physical layer are described that apply the capabilities of a pattern re-configurable antenna for improved performance. Performance gains are achieved by the schemes as a function of the number of antenna modes. The first scheme relies on a channel based fingerprint for differentiating between transmitters whereas another scheme poses the intruder detection problem as a generalized likelihood ratio (GLR) test problem that operates on the channel realizations corresponding to different modes present in a reconfigurable antenna. The benefits of these two schemes over single element antennas are demonstrated. General guidelines are provided on how to choose the different elements of the decision metric in order to realize better performance for physical layer based authentication schemes based on any diversity scheme. |
| US09560072B1 |
Discovering and selecting candidates for sinkholing of network domains
Techniques for discovering and selecting candidates for sinkholing of network domains are provided. In some embodiments, a process for discovering and selecting candidates for sinkholing of network domains includes collecting passive DNS data from a plurality of security devices to discover candidates for sinkholing of domain names; selecting one or more domain names that are most commonly queried by distinct client devices based on the passive DNS data, wherein each of the one or more domain names is not yet registered; and automatically registering each of the one or more domain names with a domain registry to a sinkholed IP address in order to sinkhole each of the one or more domain names. |
| US09560070B1 |
Distribution of security rules among sensor computers
Systems and methods for generating rules in a networking environment having one or more sensor computers logically connected to compromised computers are provided. The rules comprise detection data used by a sensor computer to detect a potential security threat and a specified remediation measure that is caused to be performed when the security threat is detected. A security control computer generates the rules from record of series of actions created by the sensor computer, generates a rule, and distributes the rule to the sensor computers. The sensor computers periodically poll a central database for new rules and store a copy of each rule locally. Using the locally stored rules, the sensor computers can more efficiently and accurately respond to security threats. |
| US09560069B1 |
Method and system for protection of messages in an electronic messaging system
Methods, computer program products, computer systems, and the like, which protect messages in an electronic messaging system, are disclosed. The methods, computer program products, computer systems, and the like include detecting an occurrence of an event, and, in response to the detecting the occurrence of the event, scanning a message. The occurrence of the event indicates that the message should be scanned. The message includes recipient information, which identifies a recipient of the message, and is stored in a message store. The message has been received at a message destination associated with the recipient. The scanning uses a malware definition. The scanning is performed prior to the message being retrieved from the message store in response to a request by the recipient to retrieve the message from the message store. The event is other than the request by the recipient to retrieve the message from the message store. |
| US09560067B2 |
Correlation based security risk identification
Methods and systems are disclosed for identifying security risks, arising from credentials existing on machines in the networks that enable access to other machines on the networks. Account credentials indications are retrieved from machines in the network, which indicate that credentials for accounts are stored on those machines. Access rights for accounts are collected, describing the access and operation permissions of these accounts on machines in the networks. A correlation is then performed to identify machines that can be accessed by employing credentials of accounts retrieved from other machines in the network. |
| US09560066B2 |
System and method for evaluating network threats and usage
Systems and methods are presented for generating a threat score and a usage score of each of a plurality of IP addresses. The threat score may be determined based on quantity of occurrences and recency of each occurrence of an IP address in network alert datasets, in addition to a weighting factor for each data source indicating the accuracy of the data source. |
| US09560065B2 |
Path scanning for the detection of anomalous subgraphs and use of DNS requests and host agents for anomaly/change detection and network situational awareness
A system, apparatus, computer-readable medium, and computer-implemented method are provided for detecting anomalous behavior in a network. Historical parameters of the network are determined in order to determine normal activity levels. A plurality of paths in the network are enumerated as part of a graph representing the network, where each computing system in the network may be a node in the graph and the sequence of connections between two computing systems may be a directed edge in the graph. A statistical model is applied to the plurality of paths in the graph on a sliding window basis to detect anomalous behavior. Data collected by a Unified Host Collection Agent (“UHCA”) may also be used to detect anomalous behavior. |
| US09560059B1 |
System, apparatus and method for conducting on-the-fly decryption of encrypted objects for malware detection
A decryption scheme for recover of a decrypted object without a cryptographic key is described. First, logical operation(s) are conducted on data associated with a first data string expected at a first location within an object having the predetermined format and data within the encrypted object at the first location to recover data associated with a portion of a cryptographic key from the encrypted object. Thereafter, logical operation(s) are conducted on that data and a first portion of the encrypted object at a second location to produce a result. Responsive to the result including data associated with the plaintext version of the second data string, logical operation(s) are conducted on a second portion of the encrypted object and the data associated with the plaintext version of the second data string to recover data associated with the cryptographic key. Thereafter, the encrypted object may be decrypted using the cryptographic key. |
| US09560056B2 |
Cloud-based gateway security scanning
Some embodiments of cloud-based gateway security scanning have been presented. In one embodiment, some data packets are received sequentially at a gateway device. The data packets constitute at least a part of a file being addressed to a client machine coupled to the gateway device. The gateway device forwards an identification of the file to a remote datacenter in parallel with forwarding the data packets to the client machine. The datacenter performs signature matching on the identification and returns a result of the signature matching to the gateway device. The gateway device determining whether to block the file from the client machine based on the result of the signature matching from the datacenter. |
| US09560054B2 |
Incoming and outgoing privacy settings in social networks
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs for defining a first group of contacts, the first group of contacts having been specified by a first user of a social networking service and including contacts of the first user within the social networking service, each contact in the first group of contacts being associated with a first sub-group of contacts within the first group of contacts, the first group of contacts being associated with a distribution scheme for digital content provided by the first user within the social networking service, and associating, based on first input provided by the first user, one or more contacts of the first sub-group of contacts with a second sub-group of contacts within the first group of contacts, the second sub-group of contacts including contacts for which at least some digital content distributed to the first user is filtered from display to the first user. |
| US09560053B2 |
Parental control management and enforcement based on hardware identifiers
A device may receive a first indication that a user device connected to a first network device associated with a first network, the first indication including a hardware identifier associated with the user device; identify a policy set associated with the hardware identifier; and output the policy set to the first network device. The outputting may cause the first network device to filter traffic, transmitted via the first network device and destined for the user device, in accordance with the policy set. The device may receive a second indication that the user device has connected to a second network device associated with a second network; and output the policy set to the second network device. The outputting may cause the second network device to filter traffic, transmitted via the second network device and destined for the user device, in accordance with the policy set. |
| US09560052B2 |
Installing virtual machines within different communication pathways to access protected resources
A computer-implemented method, system, and/or computer program product controls access to computer resources used by a computer application. One or more processors fractionate a computer application into disparate components. Two or more of the disparate components are assigned to different communication pathways, where the different communication pathways lead to requisite resources needed to execute the disparate components. One or more processors create and install a virtual machine within at least one of the different communication pathways, such that the virtual machine controls access to a particular requisite resource by a particular disparate component. One or more processors then issue a resource retrieval instruction to retrieve the particular requisite resource via the virtual machine and at least one of the different communication pathways. |
| US09560048B2 |
Method for updating identity information about packet gateway, AAA server and packet gateway
A method for updating identity information of a packet gateway, an authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) server and a packet gateway. The method includes: a decision-making network element receiving a message which carries user equipment (UE) capability indication information and is sent by an information transmission network element; the decision-making network element deciding whether to update identity information of the packet gateway or not according to the UE capability indication information carried in the message and/or local information. The technical solution can be applied to distinguish R11 UE and R12 UE, and to ensure supporting both the R11 UE and the R12 UE normally accessing to a 3GPP core network through a 3GPP access system and a non-3GPP access system simultaneously. |
| US09560046B2 |
Device notarization
Methods and systems for device notarization and verification are provided. In one implementation, various integrity values are concatenated to generate a concatenated value that is used to generate a transaction data signature (TDS). In one implementation, the concatenated value is a concatenation of a device value, an application value, an application encryption (AE) module value, and an authentication generation (AG) module value. The TDS or notarization code is generated by applying the concatenated value to the AG module. In one implementation, subsequent use of the application on the device involves generation of a new TDS, which is compared against the notarization code to determine whether use of the application on the device is authorized. In one implementation, the AE module and the AG module are seeded with a seed value which includes a device value, an application value, a user specific value, and a pseudo random number. |
| US09560045B1 |
Securing content using a wireless authentication factor
A mobile device is described that stores and renders content. Access to certain content is predicated at least upon receiving a particular wireless signal from an external or separate device that has previously been associated with the mobile device or with content stored on the mobile device. |
| US09560037B2 |
Integrated APIs and UIs for consuming services across different distributed networks
User interface integration across multiple clouds is achieved by hosting UI extensions for different services in the same browser window. The UI extensions are initialized by a shell with any necessary security context for the corresponding cloud. The shell provides versioning so that the newest version of the UI is presented to users for all versions of a service. A connector in a local cloud provides translation between APIs across different clouds. |
| US09560029B2 |
Publicly available protected electronic mail system
A secure messaging system provides a secure messaging exchange service to identified user. In one embodiment, the System comprises a User Record Server (URS) comprising a plurality of Private Electronic Mail (PEM) user accounts. A Secure Mail Delivery Agent (SMDA) provides a storage area for inbound sMail upon authentication via the URS that a Sender ID bundle in a message header of each incoming message matches the Sender ID of at least one of said plurality of PEM user accounts before delivering said incoming message. A first Secure Mail Transfer Agent (SMTA), coupled via a first encrypted connection to said SMDA and via a second connection to a public network, is configured to insert a Sender ID bundle into sMail headers when routing outbound sMail, and further configured to establish encrypted channels for the transmission of sMail over a public network. |
| US09560028B1 |
Systems and methods for filtering interprocess communications
The disclosed computer-implemented method for filtering interprocess communications may include (1) identifying a service process that provides a service on the computing device, (2) authenticating the service process, (3) identifying a request by a client process to use the service provided by the service process, (4) authenticating the client process, (5) receiving an interprocess communication from the client process directed toward the service process, (6) determining that the interprocess communication is malicious, and (7) in response to determining that the interprocess communication is malicious, blocking the interprocess communication from being communicated to the service process. Various other methods, systems, and computer-readable media are also disclosed. |
| US09560027B1 |
User authentication
There is disclosed some techniques for processing an authentication request. In one example, a method comprises the step of determining the velocity between authentication requests of a user associated with the requests. Additionally, the method determines the likelihood that a location associated with one of the requests is associated with the user location. Furthermore, the method generates an authentication result based on the likelihood that a location associated with one of the requests is associated with the user location. |
| US09560024B2 |
Pairwise temporal key creation for secure networks
A system and method for establishing a pairwise temporal key (PTK) between two devices based on a shared master key and using a single message authentication codes (MAC) algorithm is disclosed. The devices use the shared master key to independently compute four MACs representing the desired PTK, a KCK, and a first and a second KMAC. The Responder sends its first KMAC to the Initiator, which retains the computed PTK only if it verifies that the received first KMAC equals its computed first KMAC and hence that the Responder indeed possesses the purportedly shared master key. The Initiator sends a third message including the second KMAC to the Responder. The Responder retains the computed PTK only if it has verified that the received second KMAC equals its computed second KMAC and hence that the Initiator indeed possesses the purportedly shared master key. |
| US09560018B2 |
Autonomic locator/identifier separation protocol for secure hybrid cloud extension
A method is provided in one example embodiment and includes configuring a local network element as an autonomic registrar for a designated network domain; establishing an autonomic control plane (“ACP”) between the local network element and one or more remote network elements identified by local network element as a remote neighbor; designating a locally-defined subnet at the local network element to be extended to each of the one or more remote network elements; and executing an ACP command at the local network element, wherein the executing triggers a message to each of the one or more remote network elements, the message including information regarding the designated local subnet. The information included in the message is used by each of the remote network elements to auto-resolve its Locator/Identifier Separation Protocol (“LISP”) configuration, enabling the designated local subnet to be extended to each of the one or more remote network elements. |
| US09560017B2 |
Methods and apparatus to route traffic in a virtual private network
Methods and apparatus disclosed herein include receiving, at a first provider router that is not an edge router, first route information from a provider edge router. The first route information identifies a customer address in a customer network coupled to the provider edge router. The methods also include replacing, at the first provider router, a first next hop address included in the first route information with a second next hop address. The first next hop address identifies the provider edge router and the second next hop address identifies the first provider router. The methods also include advertising the first route information to a second provider router located in a different region than the first provider router. |
| US09560011B2 |
System and method for protecting service-level entities
An architecture is provided for protecting service-level entities. Such an architecture may escrow service requests prior to forwarding the requests to the service, and checking may be performed prior to releasing the request to the service. A crumple zone (CZ) architecture may be provided that buffers incoming service requests and may intercept attacks and/or sustain damage in lieu of the services being protected. The CZ may include an outward interface that is accessed by other entities, and the underlying service is not accessed directly. Elements of the CZ receive service requests, analyze them, and determine whether they can be safely executed by the underlying service. |
| US09560009B1 |
Systems and methods for commissioning a wireless lighting device with a magnetic reed switch
The present disclosure provides techniques for commissioning a light switch and a control device. A wireless light system implementing such techniques includes a light switch comprising a first microcontroller, a first wireless transceiver, and a first magnetic reed switch. The wireless light system further includes a control device comprising a second microcontroller, a second wireless transceiver, and a second magnetic reed switch. When the second magnetic reed switch is closed, the control device transmits via the second wireless transceiver a second unique address to the first wireless transceiver. When the first magnetic reed switch is closed and when the first wireless transceiver receives the second unique address, the first wireless transceiver transmits to the second wireless transceiver a first unique address. |
| US09560006B2 |
Method and apparatus for expiring messages in electronic communications
The present disclosure includes systems and methods for off-the-record communication including expiring messages. An example method comprises receiving an electronic communication from a source device, the electronic communication including at least one expiring message, temporarily storing content of the expiring message in a non-durable memory for a predetermined amount of time, durably storing envelope information associated with the expiring message in a durable memory, and determining whether a recipient device for the expiring message is available to accept transmission of the expiring message and determining whether an expiration event has occurred. |
| US09560005B2 |
Organizing social network messages based on temporal characteristics
A method for organizing messages may include detecting, by a processor, receipt of each new message of an activity stream comprising a group of messages and determining, by the processor, a tense associated with each new message. The method may also include associating, by the processor, the tense with each new message. At least the tense may be used for organizing the group of messages of the activity stream. The method may additionally include adding, by the processor, each new message and the associated tense of the message to the activity stream. |
| US09560003B2 |
Erroneous addressing prevention for electronic messaging
An electronic mail client includes features for preventing addressing errors in electronic messaging such as those caused by predictive text features. A messaging client tracks addressing parameters including the length of time since each previous addressee has been messaged, the quantity of times selected addressees have been co-addressees on messages, if any, whether the addressees are designated as sensitive and whether the messages contain sensitive subject matter. If a high risk of addressing error is determined, the client delays transmission of the message to permit the user to review the message recipient addresses and correct any erroneous addressees. |
| US09560002B1 |
Preventing a user from missing unread documents
According to one exemplary embodiment, a processor-implemented method for informing a user that an important unread email (IUE) will be removed from an online communication inbox, wherein the IUE is a high priority email determined by an algorithm is provided. The method may include determining, by the processor, if the online communication inbox associated with the user has received the IUE. The method may also include determining if an email removal event associated with the received IUE will occur within a threshold time. The method may then include displaying a notification to the user of the email removal event based on determining that the email removal event will occur within the threshold time. |
| US09559996B1 |
Systems and methods for integrating cloud storage and network service
A cloud storage system receives information associating a user's cloud storage account with a network service account associated with a service provider. The cloud storage system identifies files associated with the network service account, retrieves metadata associated with the files, and provides a list of the files and their associated metadata to the user. The metadata stored by the cloud storage system may indicate the context of the identified files within the network service account. In response to a user command, the cloud storage system may store one of the identified files in the cloud storage account, and may continue to provide the content of the stored file within the network service account even if the stored file is deleted from the network service account. |
| US09559988B2 |
PPI allocation request and response for accessing a memory system
Within a networking device, packet portions from multiple PDRSDs (Packet Data Receiving and Splitting Devices) are loaded into a single memory, so that the packet portions can later be processed by a processing device. Rather than the PDRSDs managing and handling the storing of packet portions into the memory, a packet engine is provided. The PDRSDs use a PPI (Packet Portion Identifier) Addressing Mode (PAM) in communicating with the packet engine and in instructing the packet engine to store packet portions. A PDRSD requests a PPI from the packet engine in a PPI allocation request, and is allocated a PPI by the packet engine in a PPI allocation response, and then tags the packet portion to be written with the PPI and sends the packet portion and the PPI to the packet engine. |
| US09559985B1 |
Weighted cost multipath routing with intra-node port weights and inter-node port weights
A technique includes determining a first set of intra-node port weights for a first switch of a first routing node, determining a set of inter-node port weights including a first inter-node port weight for routing traffic to a second routing node, determining a first inter-node weighted port group for the first switch for traffic directed to the second routing node, the first inter-node weighted port group including a first total port weight based on a first intra-node port weight and the first inter-node port weight and which is applied to a first port of the first switch, and a second total port weight based on a second intra-node port weight and the first inter-node port weight and which is applied to the second port of the first switch, and routing traffic to an output port of the first switch based on the first inter-node weighted port group. |
| US09559982B2 |
Packet shaping in a network processor
A circuit operates to manage transmittal of packets in a network packet processor. The circuit includes a packet descriptor manager (PDM), a packet scheduling engine (PSE), and a packet engines and buffering module (PEB). The PDM generates a metapacket and a descriptor from a command signal, where the command signal identifies a packet to be transmitted by the circuit. The PSE compares a packet transmission rate associated with the packet against at least one of a peak rate and a committed rate associated with the packet, and determines an order in which to transmit the packet among a number of packets based on the comparison. Once the packet is scheduled for transmission, the PEB performs processing operations on the packet to produce a processed packet based on instructions indicated in the descriptor. The PEB then causes the processed packet to be transmitted toward the destination. |
| US09559981B2 |
Providing agreement information to allow access by a client device of selected equipment from among multiple equipment
Agreement information based on agreements between an intermediary service provider and a plurality of provider entities that operate respective multiple equipment is stored by an intermediary system. The agreement information includes information to enable access of each of the multiple equipment by a client device. Client information associated with the client device is also stored by the intermediary system. The agreement information is useable to provide access by the client device of selected ones of the equipment. |
| US09559972B2 |
Systems and methods for managing congestion
Systems and methods for managing congestion in a network are disclosed. One method can comprise establishing a connection between a first network device and a second network device, wherein the first network device has an associated data limiter value such as a congestion window (CWND). The size of the CWND can be modified, for example, at a first rate, when no congestion is detected. In response to the congestion window size exceeding a threshold value associated with the connection, the size of the CWND can be modified based on round trip time (RTT) associated with the connection. If congestion on the connection is detected, the congestion window size can be modified to a value based on at least in part the bandwidth and RTT of the connection between the first network device and the second network device. |
| US09559971B2 |
Device configuration
Measures for configuring a network aggregation device in a network. First routing data for a plurality of internet protocol (IP) flows configured on at least one edge device of a service provider network is identified. The edge device is located towards the service provider network from the network aggregation device. At least one utility metric for at least one IP flow in the identified plurality of IP flows is calculated. The at least one utility metric is calculated at least in part on the basis of one or more destination IP addresses associated with the at least one IP flow. A subset of IP flows from the identified plurality of IP flows is selected at least in part on the basis of the calculated at least one utility metric. Second routing data for the selected subset of IP flows is configured on the network aggregation device. |
| US09559970B2 |
Shortening of service paths in service chains in a communications network
A method is provided in one embodiment and includes receiving at a network element a flow offload decision for a first service node that includes a portion of a service chain for processing a flow; recording the flow offload decision against the first service node at the network element; and propagating the flow offload decision backward on a service path to which the flow belongs if the first service node is hosted at the network element. Embodiments may also include propagating the flow offload decision backward on a service path to which the flow belongs if the flow offload decision is a propagated flow offload decision and the network element hosts a second service node that immediately precedes the service node on behalf of which the propagated flow offload decision was received and a flow offload decision has already been received by the network element from the second service node. |
| US09559969B2 |
Source-aware network shaping
Systems and methods are described for source-aware shaping of network traffic in a communications system. Embodiments can manage resource congestion within a communications network by preferentially adjusting certain types of traffic on a per-subscriber and/or per-application basis. For example, a subscriber can receive various types of traffic in respective streams, and the streams can be identified according to whether they carry adaptive traffic. When a congestion condition is detected, one or more of the identified streams can be squeezed or expanded, which can cause an associated content source to automatically adapt communication of the adaptive traffic (e.g., its quality) to the reduced or expanded capacity. Selectively squeezing those streams identified as adaptive can appreciably mitigate congestion, while maintaining a desired level of network performance for the subscriber. |
| US09559966B2 |
Reducing network and appliances load through cooperative control plane decisions
Systems and methods for forwarding data packets in a communications network, the method comprising: providing information included in a first portion of a data packet to a network policy unit, in response to a forwarding device receiving a data packet to be forwarded over one or more network routes; forwarding the data packet according to a flow policy, in response to the forwarding device receiving the flow policy from the network policy unit, wherein the flow policy applied to the data packet by the forwarding device is determined by the network policy unit based on the network policy unit performing an analysis of the information included in the first portion of the data packet in view of policy information provided to the network policy unit. |
| US09559964B2 |
Control message routing within anycast reliant platforms
Some embodiments provide a transport session discovery protocol that enables load balancing devices of an Anycast reliant distributed platform to route legacy control messages to destinations within the distributed platform that manage the sessions or connections implicated by the legacy control messages, even when the implicated sessions or connections cannot be directly identified from the control message headers. The modified load balancing operation as a result of the transport session discovery protocol involves identifying a message header mapping to an unrecognized session or connection, extracting session or connection identifying information and an error or condition from the message body, generating a new messaging construct to encapsulate the extracted information, and multicasting the messaging construct to other load balancing devices operating within a common point-of-presence. The load balancing device having knowledge of the server managing the implicated session then routes the error or condition to that server. |
| US09559963B2 |
Communication system and automatic metering system
A communication system according to the present invention includes a plurality of ad hoc communication networks each formed by one or more communication units and one gateway and includes a monitoring server that monitors the ad hoc communication networks. The monitoring server determines on the basis of a monitoring result of load states of the gateways and a monitoring result of a congestion state of radio traffic whether it is necessary to carry out load distribution control for moving a communication unit subordinate to a first gateway to be subordinate to a second gateway set around the first gateway and, when determining that it is necessary to carry out the load distribution control, instructs at least one gateway of the first gateway and the second gateway to broadcast-deliver a signal including control information and instructing reselection of a gateway set as a participation destination. |
| US09559959B2 |
Control apparatus, communication system, switch controlling method and program
A control apparatus includes a communication device controller that acts on a set of flow entries retained by one communication device of a group of communication devices(s) to control the group of the communication devices(s), and a flow statistics information management unit that gathers and manages the flow statistics information collected by the communication device per flow entry. On occurrence of a new flow, the communication device controller finds an estimated lifetime of the new flow based on the flow statistics information, and sets a flow entry on the communication device(s) on a path of the new flow. The flow entry has set an aging time consistent with the estimated lifetime. |
| US09559953B2 |
Path splitting with a connection-oriented network
In one embodiment this disclosure provides a network device that includes an input port configured to link to a first device to receive a packet from the first device, wherein the received packet having a first label encoded therein, the value of the first label is specific to the link between the network device and the first device; the input port having an input port identifier, the input port identifier and the first label form an input tuple; a plurality of output ports configured to link to respective ones of a plurality of second devices, each output port having a respective output port identifier; a forwarding table that includes at least one input tuple and a corresponding set of output tuples; wherein each output tuple comprises an output port identifier and a second label, the value of the second label is specific to the link between the network device and a respective one of the second plurality of devices; and routing circuitry configured to compare the input tuple of the received packet with at least one input tuple of the forwarding table, identify the corresponding set of output tuples, and select one output tuple from among the set of corresponding output tuples; the routing circuitry is also configured to replace the first label of the received packet with the second label and send the packet to the output port specified by the output port identifier in the selected output tuple. |
| US09559948B2 |
System and method for managing unknown flows in a flow-based switching device
A network switching device includes a macroflow sub-plane that performs packet-based routing in the network switching device and a microflow routing module that performs flow-based routing in the network switching device. The microflow routing module is separable from the network switching device and operates to provide a data packet via a software defined network agent to an SDN controller. The data packet is associated with a first unknown flow on the network switching device. The microflow routing module further operates to receive via the SDN agent a flow-based routing rule from the SDN controller and route the data packet based upon the flow-based routing rule. |
| US09559946B2 |
Link aggregation group (LAG) support on a software-defined network (SDN)
In one embodiment, a system includes a software-defined network (SDN) controller including a processor and logic integrated with and/or executable by the processor, the logic being configured to: receive a port addition indication that a logical port is configured on a switching device, the switching device being connected to the SDN controller and a second device, wherein the logical port represents a link aggregation group (LAG) that includes at least two links between the switching device and the second device, and derive and maintain a logical index for all logical ports in software-defined switching devices connected to the SDN controller based on logical port identifiers thereof. |
| US09559943B2 |
Network communication redundancy method
There is provided an improved redundancy method for a communication network. The invention is based on the insight that a hitless failover can be performed by at the receiving node using a single common indexed play-out buffer in which a selective reconstruction of the transported data stream utilizing individual pieces, i.e. frames or packages, of a data stream received over multiple links is performed. |
| US09559942B2 |
Media stream providing device and method for connecting thereto, media streaming system, and computer-readable medium
Disclosed herein, among others, is a media streaming system, comprising a registrar server, a media stream providing device, and a media stream receiving device. The registrar server is configured to register a piece of connection information associated with the media stream providing device, the connection information comprising a local network location, a public network location, a broker location, and a proxy location. The media stream receiving device is configured to obtain the connection information from the registrar server, and to commence measuring simultaneously, based on the aforementioned locations, first, second, third, and fourth costs for connecting to the media stream providing device via a local path, a remote path, a peer-to-peer path, and a proxy-assisted path, respectively. The media stream receiving device then selects one of those paths based on the measured costs. |
| US09559941B2 |
Locally protecting service in a label switched path network
A network node that provides egress fault protection for a primary egress node. The network node may receive a service label associated with an application from a primary egress node of a primary label switched path (LSP). The network node may use the service label to add a forwarding entry into a forwarding table associated with the primary egress node. Following a fault in the primary egress node, the network node may receive a data packet comprising an LSP label and the service label from a partial backup LSP. The network node may use the LSP label to locate the forwarding table associated with the primary egress node. The service label may be used to deliver the data packet to a destination node according to the forwarding table associated with the primary egress node. |
| US09559940B2 |
Take-over of network frame handling in a computing environment
A first component of a computing environment receives, from a physical network adapter of the computing environment, a request that the first component take over processing of network frames directed to network frame address(es) associated with a second component of the computing environment. The first component register the network frame address(es) for processing of network frames directed to the network frame address(es). Based on the first component receiving from the physical network adapter a network frame directed to a network frame address of the network frame address(es) associated with the second component, the first component processes the received network frame, in which the network frame is provided to the second component via an inter-component link between the first component and the second component. |
| US09559939B2 |
System and method for handling resource failure in a hybrid contact center operations environment
A system for providing failover capabilities in a hybrid operations environment including a first operations environment and a second operations environment includes a first controller in a first operations environment configured to receive registration information for an agent device, and a second controller in a second operations environment configured to receive the registration information from the first controller. The first controller is a stand-by controller and the second controller is a primary controller. In response to determining that the second controller is not available for routing an inbound call, a media gateway is configured to transmit a request to the first controller in the first operations environment for routing the call to the agent device. |
| US09559936B2 |
Method and system for initializing the border gateway protocol on network devices
A method for initializing the border gateway protocol (BGP) on network devices. The method includes initializing, by a first network device, a BPG session with a second network device. The method further includes receiving, by the first network device from the second network device, route updates and an end of routing information base (EOR) marker. The method further includes updating an n_EOR variable maintained by the first network device after receiving the EOR marker and, after updating the n_EOR variable, determining that the first network device has received route updates from all peer network devices, and subsequently updating, in the first network device, a routing information base (RIB) using route updates received from the peer network devices. The method further includes updating, in the first network device, a forwarding information base (FIB) using the updated RIB and advertising, to all peer network devices by the first network device, routes. |
| US09559934B2 |
Non-disruptive integrated network infrastructure testing
Non-disruptive integrated testing of network infrastructure in which one or more processors of a first network interface device (NID) performs tests on a network cable connected to a first NID of a host system, and connected to a second NID. Tests verify connectivity of the cable, a bandwidth capacity baseline, and a maximum bandwidth of the network cable. A self-test determines the host operating system, host status, and operational status of the host NID, and responsive to changed conditions, NID settings are reverted to a pre-validated condition state, and confirmation of reverting is sent to the host. Network activity is suspended if received by the host ID during scheduled network cable tests. Upon completion of tests and storing of test results in NID memory network activity resumes. Results of the tests are transferred from memory of the first NID to persistent storage of the host system. |
| US09559930B2 |
Method and apparatus for measuring a packet throughput in wireless communication system
A method and apparatus of measuring a packet throughput using a timer in a wireless communication system are provided. When determining a reference time for estimating packet throughput, a receiver determines the time that a data burst starts or ends using a timer in order to estimate the packet throughput considering a change in the data burst of the transmitter buffer. A measurement period is defined through the determined start time and end time of the data burst by the timer, and packet throughput is measured considering the total amount of the received data burst. The throughput of packet data may be estimated by each base station based on the same standard rule, so that the measured packet throughput values may be reliable, thus allowing the operator to make use of it as a parameter for MDT. |
| US09559928B1 |
Integrated test coverage measurement in distributed systems
Methods and systems for implementing test coverage measurement are disclosed. A first set of interactions among a set of production services are determined. The first set of interactions comprises a plurality of service requests between individual ones of the set of production services. A second set of interactions among a set of test services are determined. The second set of interactions comprises a plurality of service requests between individual ones of the set of test services. A test coverage metric is generated. The test coverage metric indicates an amount of the first set of interactions that are covered by the second set of interactions. |
| US09559925B2 |
Network switch load balance optimization
A network load balancing method in a blade grouping chassis can be provided. The method can include detecting system conditions among blades coupled to a single blade grouping chassis. The method also can include maintaining a rotation of selected ones of the blades among which individual blades are selected for use in network load balancing inbound workloads. Finally, the method can include removing an individual blade from the rotation responsive to detecting a system condition in the individual blade indicative of an inability of the individual blade to support high availability in network load balancing. As such, the method further can include re-adding the individual blade to the rotation responsive to detecting a system condition in the individual blade indicative of an ability of the individual blade to support high availability in network load balancing. |
| US09559924B1 |
System and method for monitoring the status of multiple servers on a network
A system and method for monitoring a plurality of servers by a monitoring server in a computer network. A list of servers and a plurality of services to monitor in the computer network is generated at the monitoring server. A status query is transmitted sequentially by the monitoring server to each of the plurality of servers, the status query including the plurality of services to monitor at each server. A status message report is received from each of the plurality of servers in response to each status query. An event is reported in an event log for each server that has an abnormal service status. The transmission of the status query to each server is performed by the monitoring server at a specified service time interval. |
| US09559923B2 |
Adaptive buffer status reporting
The present invention relates to a method for communicating in a network from a first station to a second station, wherein the first station comprises at least one buffer memory for storing data packets to be transmitted, the method comprising the steps of (a) the first station estimating the status of the at least one buffer memory, (b) the first station transmitting at least one buffer status packet representative of the buffer memory status, wherein the method further comprises (c) adapting the value of a first parameter of the buffer status packets on the basis of a data traffic characteristic. |
| US09559920B1 |
Management of decommissioned server assets in a shared data environment
Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for monitoring decommissioned servers in a shared data environment. Embodiments of the present invention can be used to aggregate information associated with an environment from external resources, and calculate a baseline of server activity from the aggregated information. When new information is received, it is compared to the baseline of server activity in order to determine a possible misuse of the server assets, when inconsistencies are detected between the baseline of activity and the new information. |
| US09559911B1 |
Forecasting link utilization between points of presence in an IP network
The present invention provides a method for computing traffic between a pair of Points of Presence in an IP network by summing link utilization values measured for each link connecting a pair of Points of Presence and dividing the sum by the number of link utilization values included in the sum. The resulting average link utilization is the average link utilization of any link in the aggregate and may be multiplied by the number of active links connecting a pair of Points of Presence to reflect the total amount of traffic between the two Points of Presence. Future link utilization may be forecast by modeling the observed traffic between a pair of Points of Presence using wavelet multiresolution analysis to create an approximation curve that captures the long-term trend of link utilization and at least one detail curve that captures the short term deviation of link utilization around the long-term trend. A time series model of the approximation curve may then be constructed and used for forecasting. In a similar fashion, deviation of link utilization may be forecast. |
| US09559909B2 |
Identifying an egress port of a device
A method of identifying an egress port of a focus device, the method being implemented at a monitor computer and comprising: generating a query message to the focus device including an address identifying the device and a query key formulated based on a destination identifier, and including an instruction readable at the device to return the result message including identification of an egress port for messages addressed to the destination identified in the destination identifier; receiving a result message at the monitor computer; reading the result message, and where the result message does not identify an egress port autonomously generating a subsequent query message; including at least one of (i) a different address for a different device connected in the computer network, and (ii) a different query key, wherein sufficient query messages are generated to identify the egress port of the focus device. |
| US09559905B2 |
Type-C retimer state machine and a protocol for inband control and configuration
An apparatus for retimer configuration and control is described herein. The apparatus includes at least one retimer. The is to receive an inband low frequency periodic signal (LFPS), and to send an inband LFPS based pulse width modulation message (LBPM) in response to the inband LFPS. The retimer is configured by decoding the LBPM. |
| US09559903B2 |
Cloud-based virtual machines and offices
Cloud-based virtual machines and offices are provided herein. Methods may include establishing a cloud-based virtual office, by providing selections, corresponding to backups of servers of a computing network, to a user interface, establishing a cloud gateway for the virtual office, virtualizing a backup for each server using a virtualization program to create the cloud-based virtual office that includes virtual server machines networked with one another via the cloud gateway, and providing a workload to the cloud-based virtual office. |
| US09559897B2 |
Device ID assignment in a system of devices
Techniques for assigning device identifiers in a system of devices are provided. In one embodiment, a master device of the system can maintain a first configuration that specifies a set of links between a first subset of the devices, where the first configuration includes a device identifier for each device in the first subset. The master device can further generate a second configuration that specifies a set of links between a second subset of the devices, where the second configuration is based on a physical topology of the system, and where one or more devices in the second subset are unknown devices that are not associated with a device identifier in the physical topology. The master device can then assign device identifiers to the unknown devices in the second subset by comparing the first configuration with the second configuration. |
| US09559891B2 |
System and method for hosted network management
A hosted network management solution for communications over a computer network supports data communication across a network in accordance with a network message protocol such that communications are established between a network host and a node device. The and the node device performs a self-configuring operation in which the network host identifies a network owner associated with the hosted network, and maintains a persistent network connection path between the network host and the node device for the exchange of network packet messages. The network host retrieves message data from the network packet messages it receives from the node device and performs network management operations to provide a user management interface to the identified network owner. The hosted network management enables more convenient setup and configuration for the network owner and provides more complete and effective network management tools. |