| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09718285B2 |
Printer
In a printer for printing on a label of a continuous paper in a middle of feeding the continuous paper unwound from a paper sheet supply unit, while a depressed portion is disposed below a damper portion, a width adjustment guiding portion, which contacts an outer edge in a width direction of the continuous paper to guide a feed of the continuous paper, is disposed on a lower portion of the damper portion such that the lower end portion of the width adjustment guiding portion is positioned within the depressed portion. |
| US09718278B2 |
Image forming apparatus and image forming method
An image forming apparatus comprising: a color ink applying unit configured to apply color ink to a print medium; a clear ink applying unit configured to apply a plurality of clear inks to the print medium to cover the applied color ink, each clear ink of the plurality of clear inks having a degree of glossiness that is different from each other; and a determining unit configured to determine an amount ratio of each clear ink to each other clear ink of the plurality of clear inks in accordance with the degree of glossiness indicated by the glossiness data and to determine an amount of each clear ink of the plurality of clear inks such that the determined ratio is satisfied and such that the clear inks cover the applied color ink and print medium at approximately 100% area coverage. |
| US09718277B2 |
Tank, tank unit and liquid ejection system
To solve the problem of a liquid supply unit of the related art in that liquid supply may become difficult.The invention provides a tank capable of supplying a liquid to a liquid ejection head, the tank including: a liquid containing portion capable of containing the liquid; and an atmospheric air introducing portion constituting an atmospheric air flow channel capable of introducing atmospheric air into the liquid containing portion, wherein the atmospheric air introducing portion includes a buffer chamber capable of containing the atmospheric air, a liquid retaining member is housed in the buffer chamber, and in a state in which the liquid retaining member is housed in the buffer chamber, a gap that allows the atmospheric air to move between a first communication port and a second communication port of the atmospheric air flow channel is provided within the buffer chamber. |
| US09718270B2 |
Liquid discharge head, liquid discharge device, and liquid discharge apparatus
A liquid discharge head includes a plurality of nozzles to discharge liquid droplets; a plurality of piezoelectric elements, each corresponding to a corresponding one of the plurality of nozzles and disposed along a nozzle alignment direction along which the plurality of nozzles is aligned; an actuator member on which the plurality of piezoelectric elements is aligned; and wiring disposed along the nozzle alignment direction, connected to the plurality of piezoelectric elements, and included in the actuator member, the wiring including a first wiring pattern to which the plurality of piezoelectric elements is connected, the first wiring pattern including a near side proximal to and a far side distal from a source of a drive signal for the piezoelectric elements. The near side and the far side are connected via a second wiring pattern. |
| US09718269B2 |
Multi-waveform inkjet nozzle correction
The uniformity of performance of inkjet nozzles within a print head containing a plurality of said nozzles is optimized by characterizing one or more performance attributes of the nozzles within said print head. A waveform set is generated that comprises a plurality of waveforms to compensate for variations of the one or more performance attributes among the nozzles. One of the waveforms within the waveform set is assigned to each nozzle to optimize the one or more performance attributes of each nozzle relative to each other nozzle in the print head. Based upon the waveform assigned to each nozzle, each nozzle in the print head responds substantially uniformly relative to each other nozzle in the print head. |
| US09718267B2 |
Screen printing apparatus including support bars, and methods of using same
A method is disclosed for electroforming metal screen. The method deposits photoresist over a mandrel, and then exposes the photoresist with light through a plurality of openings in a photo tool to form hardened resist pillars. Unexposed photoresist is removed without affecting the resist pillars. The method then electroforms the metal screen in areas free of the hardened resist pillars such that the metal screen forms apertures defined by each of the resist pillars, a space between at least two of the resist pillars defining a support bar that forms at a reduced thickness as compared to portions of the metal screen that are not between the resist pillars. Finally, the method detaches the metal screen from the mandrel. |
| US09718266B2 |
Label affixing machine
A label affixing machine includes a holder, a storing device, a storing device, a peeling device and a conveyer. The storing device, the peeling device and the conveyer are fixed in position on the holder. The picking device is coupled to the conveyer. The label includes a bottom board affixed under the label, the label affixing machine configured to affix the label on an object. The picking device is configured for picking the label. The peeling device includes a second fixing module fixed in position on the holder, a second moving module coupled to the second fixing module and a robotic arm fixed in position on the second moving module. The robotic arm is configured for clamping the bottom board and peeling the bottom board from the label. The conveyer moves the picking device and affixes the label on the object. |
| US09718261B2 |
Assembly process of two substrates
A method for assembling two substrates by molecular adhesion comprises: a first step (a) of putting first and second substrates in close contact in order to form an assembly having an assembly interface; a second step (b) of reinforcing the degree of adhesion of the assembly beyond a threshold adhesion value at which water is no longer able to diffuse along the assembly interface. The method also comprises a step (c) of anhydrous treatment of the first and second substrates in a treatment atmosphere having a dew point below −10° C., and control of the dew point of a working atmosphere to which the first and second substrates are exposed from the anhydrous treatment step (c) until the end of the second step (b) so as to limit or prevent the appearance of bonding defects at the assembly interface. |
| US09718258B2 |
Multi-layered film containing a biopolymer
A film that contains a core layer positioned adjacent to an outer layer is provided. The core layer contains a relatively high percentage of thermoplastic biopolymers that are both biodegradable and renewable. Despite being biodegradable and renewable, many biopolymers tend to be relatively stiff in nature. The present inventors have discovered, however, that through selective control over the components in the core and outer layers, a film can be readily formed having good mechanical properties. Among other things, this is accomplished by blending the biopolymer in the core layer with a polyolefin. A polyolefin is also employed in the outer layer. In addition to providing functionality to the film (e.g., heat sealing, printing, etc.), the polyolefin-containing outer layer also helps counteract the stiffness of the biopolymer in the core layer, and helps improve processability, stiffness, and ductility. |
| US09718257B2 |
Bending wood laminate and bent shaped part produced therefrom
A pliable bentwood laminate with an intermediate layer (2) forming a central layer, having first and second surface sides, a first outer timber layer (3) on the first surface side, and a second outer timber layer (4) one the second surface side, wherein the distance between the outer surface of the first and second outer timber layers (3, 4) is at least 8 mm, wherein the first and the second outer timber layers (3, 4) are formed from rotary cut balsawood veneer, wherein density of the first and second outer timber layers (3, 4), with a residual moisture content of 12% by weight with respect to the timber mass, is less than 200 kg/m3, wherein the first and second outer timber layers (3, 4) have lathe checks (5) on one surface side, wherein the first and second outer timber layers (3, 4) are arranged with the surface side having the lathe checks (5) faces away from the intermediate layer (2), wherein the bentwood laminate can be and/or is curved with an inner bending radius of between 100 mm and 250 mm, wherein the intermediate layer is a directional timber layer, a natural axis of the bentwood laminate runs in the intermediate layer, and wood grain of the directional intermediate layer runs at right-angles to longitudinal extent of the lathe checks (5). |
| US09718254B2 |
Moisture-resistant gypsum boards and slurries for making same
A gypsum board comprises a cover sheet and a gypsum layer disposed on the cover sheet. The gypsum layer comprises the reaction product of an isocyanate, water, and stucco. The isocyanate increases the moisture resistance of the gypsum board. A method of manufacturing the gypsum board comprises the steps of combining the isocyanate, the water, and the stucco to form a slurry, and applying the slurry to a cover sheet to form the gypsum layer on the cover sheet. |
| US09718253B2 |
Method of using a sterilization wrap system
A method of using a sterilization wrap system including a permeable material having barrier properties and having a first surface and a second opposing surface, the exterior panel being substantially opaque or having a first level of translucence, and an interior panel including a permeable material having barrier properties and having a first surface and a second opposing surface, the interior panel having a level of translucence that is higher than the translucence of the exterior panel, the panels being joined together over at least a portion of their surfaces. Also disclosed is inspection of the sterilization wrap system for exterior panel breaches by looking for light passing through a panel facing the viewer. |
| US09718252B2 |
Product with internal passages made of stacked sheets with compressive casing
A component (34A, 34B, 34C) has a core formed of a stack (25, 36) of sheets (20) of material with cutouts (22A) aligned to form passages (38) in the core. An outer casing (29) spans the stack axially (51), brackets at least parts of opposed ends of the stack, and holds the sheets together in axial compression (46). Respective cooperating elements (30, 31) on the casing and the stack may register the casing with respect to the stack. Pins (24) in some sheets may engage holes (23) in adjacent sheets to register the sheets with each other. The casing may be segmented (28A, 28B, 28C). A hoop (66) may be compressed around the segmented casing. A gas turbine fuel injector may be formed of a stack (36) with an inlet element (44) compressed (46) onto the stack by the casing (29). |
| US09718250B2 |
Directed assembly of block copolymer films between a chemically patterned surface and a second surface
Provided are methods of fabricating thin film structures that involve assembling block copolymer materials in the presence of condensed phase surfaces on both sides of the thin film, at least one of which is a chemically patterned surface configured to direct the assembly of the block copolymer material. According to various embodiments, the other of the condensed phase surfaces can be a chemically homogenous surface or a chemically patterned surface. Also provided are structures, morphologies, and templates formed in the domain structure of block copolymer materials. In certain embodiments, complex 3-D morphologies and related structures not present in bulk block copolymer materials are provided. |
| US09718245B2 |
Combination apparatus of cold isostatic press and general press
Provided is a combined cold isostatic press and general press capable of simultaneously performing cold isostatic pressing using pressure of fluid and general pressing using mechanically applied pressure. The combined cold isostatic press and general press includes a main frame having a center penetration region, a pressure vessel supported by the penetration region of the main frame, the pressure vessel performing cold isostatic pressing using fluid injected therein, a top lid installed to be vertically slidable from or to an upper end of the pressure vessel by the fluid filled in the pressure vessel so as to function as piston, the top lid being configured to open or close the upper end of the pressure vessel, a lower lid configured to open or close a lower end of the pressure vessel and a press unit located between the top lid and the main frame to perform pressing using pressure applied by the top lid as the top lid slides from the pressure vessel. As such, enhanced productivity and reduction in fluid consumption and manufacturing costs may be accomplished. |
| US09718241B2 |
Method of manufacturing an acetabular component
An orthopedic component having multiple layers that are selected to provide an overall modulus that is substantially lower than the modulus of known orthopedic components to more closely approximate the modulus of the bone into which the orthopedic component is implanted. In one exemplary embodiment, the orthopedic component is an acetabular shell. For example, the acetabular shell may include an outer layer configured for securement to the natural acetabulum of a patient and an inner layer configured to receive an acetabular liner. The head of a femoral prosthesis articulates against the acetabular liner to replicate the function of a natural hip joint. Alternatively, the inner layer of the acetabular shell may act as an integral acetabular liner against which the head of the femoral prosthesis articulates. |
| US09718240B2 |
Overmolding extruded profiles
An exemplary method of, for instance, forming a baffle or reinforcer includes extruding an expandable material to have a particular cross-sectional profile, inserting the expandable material into a molding tool, cutting the expandable material to a predetermined length within the molding tool, and overmolding a carrier material onto a portion of the expandable material within the molding tool. |
| US09718231B2 |
High pressure relief assembly and assembly locking device for use with extruders
The invention provides devices that are attached to an extruder making the operation thereof more efficient and convenient and allowing for a quick change over of parts used to make various products prepared in the extrusion process. A high pressure relief assembly is attached to the extruder that allows for the rapid release of pressure from the extruder at the end of the process by venting product under pressure from the extruder and the extruder also has attached thereto a quick assembly locking device that allows for the exchange of assemblies, such as a density control assembly and other assembles, without the removal of nuts, bolts, and clamps by attaching the assembly to an arm that can be moved in and out of place in front of the extruder and wherein the device has a locking mechanism that seals and releases the assembly from the extruder. |
| US09718230B2 |
Multilayer blown films for shrink applications
The present invention discloses multilayer blown films for shrink label and related applications. These multilayer blown films can comprise a core layer containing an ethylene polymer, and inner and outer layers containing conjugated diene monovinylarene block copolymers. |
| US09718228B1 |
Mold and method of making a mold
A mold for the manufacture of plastic objects has a plurality of cavities which are formed by clamping together a plurality of individual insert straps. The insert straps each have a shape corresponding to a portion of the desired cavity and the insert straps in combination form the desired cavity The insert straps may be rearranged and straps may be added or withdrawn to provide cavities of different lengths and configurations. The mold also has a sub-ejector assembly which may be positioned to accommodate changes in the size of the individual cavities formed by the combination of insert straps The method for making a mold includes the steps of forming a mold cavity using a plurality of insert straps and then clamping the individual insert straps together. |
| US09718227B2 |
Device and method for producing injection-molded parts which comprise different components
The invention relates to a device and a method for producing plastic moldings from at least two different sub-elements (15; 16) that includes first and second mold halves (3) and a rotatable center block (6) with center and third mold halves (8; 17) interposed therebetween. The center and third mold halves define first and second parting planes with the first and second mold halves. First cavities are defined in the first parting plane, into which a first plastic component is introduced to produce preforms (12). When the first parting plane is opened, the performs (12) remain on the center mold halves (8) and are brought into the second parting plane when the center block (6) is rotated, in which second parting plane second cavities are at least partially defined by the preforms (12), into which a second plastic component is introduced and first sub-elements (15) are produced. Second sub-elements (16) are produced in the additional cavities. When the second parting plane is opened, the sub-elements (15; 16) remain on the center and third mold halves (8) and are rotated into a lateral assembly position when the center block (6) is rotated. |
| US09718226B2 |
Method of injection molding
A method for an injection molded product having a molten resin containing an aluminum pigment. The injection mold includes resin reservoirs connected to both sides of a cavity, positioned where the molten resin meets as it partly flows therein. The cavity has a design surface of an injection-molded product and both side surfaces continuing from the surface forming the design surface. One of the resin reservoirs is connected to one of the side surfaces and the other resin reservoir is connected to the other side surface, across the position where the molten resin meets. When the molten resin partly flows into the resin reservoirs, flow of the molten resin, which is substantially in parallel from the surface forming the design surface to the resin reservoirs, is generated and aluminum pigment makes an orientation angle of 120° to 140° on the design surface at the position where the molten resin meets. |
| US09718225B2 |
Heat resistant toughened thermoplastic composition for injection molding
Injection molded parts with a small dimension that exhibit high heat resistance are described. Thermoplastic compositions that can be utilized to form the injection molded parts are described. The thermoplastic composition includes a polyarylene sulfide and a crosslinked impact modifier. The thermoplastic composition can also include siloxane polymers, thermoplastic elastomers, or other additives that can further improve the characteristics of the injection molded parts. |
| US09718221B2 |
Methods, systems, and devices for radio-frequency assisted removal of sealant
Cured flexible sealant may be removed from a substrate if the cured flexible sealant includes within its volume a susceptor such as metal susceptor particles. Removal proceeds by exposing the sealant with the susceptor to radio-frequency radiation sufficient to cause dielectric heating in the susceptor. The consequent heating in the cured sealant reduces the bond strength of the cured sealant. The reduced bond-strength sealant may be removed by physical methods, such as scraping etc., much more easily than the original (unexposed) cured sealant. Also disclosed are sealant compositions with susceptor, susceptor tools to introduce susceptor into cured sealant, and handheld radio-frequency heaters to apply radio-frequency radiation to cured sealant. |
| US09718216B1 |
Extruder screw
Embodiments of the presently-disclosed subject matter include extruder screws. Some embodiments of extruder screws include a screw body for placement in an extruder barrel, a plurality of ridges on the outer surface of the screw body that extend helically from an inlet end to an outlet end of the screw body, each adjacent pair of the ridges defining a channel, and one or more notches each extending across one of the plurality of ridges and between an adjacent pair of the channels. The notches can permit a material to flow from one channel into an adjacent channel, and the notches can define crosscuts that extend along the screw body and helically rotate in an opposite direction relative to the plurality of ridges. Furthermore, some extruder screws can further comprise one or more splitter rings. |
| US09718215B2 |
Capacitive clamping process for cleaving work pieces using crack propagation
Controllable cleavage of a work piece is achieved through the use of capacitive clamps and application of a large tensile force. Capacitive clamps are used to secure the ends of a work piece with strong electrostatic forces. The capacitive clamps secure the ends of the work piece by creating electrostatic forces like those experienced by the plates in a parallel plate capacitor. After introduction of a crack along a side surface of the work piece, the application of a tensile force along the central axis of the work piece causes the crack to rapidly propagate and cleave the work piece into two or more pieces. |
| US09718209B2 |
Table saw guide and safety guard
A guide and safety guard for a table saw, of the type having a table top and a powered saw blade with an exposed saw blade portion projecting above the table top and a movable guide fence positionable on the table top on a far side of the saw blade, has a support rail having opposite ends coupled to support members in a desired spaced relation to the guide fence of the table saw, a guard block mounted by a sleeve portion so as to be slidable on the support rail in axial directions thereon, and rotatable on the support rail so that it can be moved out of and into operative position, wherein the guard block has a height projecting above the table top in the operative position that is greater than the height of the exposed saw blade portion for protecting the hand of the user, and a guard extension fixed to a trailing side of the guard block for protecting the wrist and lower arm area of the user. |
| US09718206B1 |
Table saw mill attachment
The table saw mill trolley rolls on rails. A log holder is pivotally attached to the trolley for pivotal movement about first and second axes. A support is fixed to the holder. A log tensioner and log indexer are attached to the support. Centering pins on the tensioner and indexer engage log ends. The trolley supports a log with an indexing shaft axis transverse to the blade axis. A first slot is cut in the log. The log is pivoted about the first axis and the trolley is returned to the start. The log is rotated about the second axis and then pivoted about the first axis to support by the trolley. A second slot that intersects the first slot is cut forming a first log flat surface. |
| US09718205B1 |
Single setup shaper sander
A single station shaper sander that uses a quick change retractable shaper and a quick change retractable profile sander is described. The shaper generates a profile in a substrate, and then the sander sands the profile in the substrate without intermediate removal of the substrate. Both the shaper and sander are retractable, moving away from the substrate when retracted, and are moved into contact with the substrate when engaged. Either an operator or automatic controls may be used to engage and retract the shaper or sander, so as to minimize operator access to dangerous moving surfaces on either. Further, each sander or shaper may have removable tools that are temporarily affixed to a spindle, affording tool changes of 15 seconds or less. |
| US09718202B2 |
Method and apparatus for measuring protrusion length of protrusion portion
Method and apparatus for measuring a protrusion length of a protrusion portion on each side of sheet after cutting even when there is variation in positions of cords embedded in the sheet, apparatus with imaging unit that images cross-sectional profile in width direction of sheet including protrusion portions, and generates waveform data from imaging of cross-sectional profile, detect maximum height-positions of crests and of troughs of waveform data, set, based on waveform data, a maximum height-position of crest closest to width end of sheet as maximum height-position of end crest, set a position corresponding to an edge of protrusion portion of sheet, located on more width end side than maximum height-position of end crest, as minimum height-position of a terminal trough, detect distance in width direction of sheet between maximum height-position of end crest and of the terminal trough, and measure protrusion length of protrusion portion based on detected distance. |
| US09718200B2 |
Safety razor with comb and integrated blade and associated methods
A safety razor removes hair from skin using the cutting blade comprising a sharp edge along an elongated side of a planar surface. An outer comb has a row of outer teeth running along the planar surface on an outside of the cutting blade, each outer tooth is substantially perpendicular to the sharp edge and spaced with a gap between the row of the outer teeth and the planar surface of the cutting blade. Ends of the row of outer teeth comprise outer teeth tips. An inner guard runs along the planar surface on an inside of the cutting blade. The sharp edge of cutting blade is recessed up to a skin surface contour, the skin surface contour defined by the outer teeth tips and an edge of the inner guard. The sharp edge of cutting blade longitudinally bends to cause further recess relative to the skin surface contour. |
| US09718195B1 |
Cylindrical worm drive robotic gripper
An example robotic gripping apparatus includes a robotic wrist and a motor contained within the robotic wrist. The motor includes a drive shaft that rotates about a primary axis during motor operation. The robotic gripping apparatus also includes a cylindrical worm gear, connected to the drive shaft, that encircles the motor and rotates about the primary axis during motor operation. Additionally, the robotic gripping apparatus includes two or more robotic fingers, each having a proximal end and a distal end. The robotic gripping apparatus further includes two or more spur gears corresponding to the two or more robotic fingers. Each spur gear is attached to the proximal end of the corresponding robotic finger. Each spur gear engages the cylindrical worm gear and rotates the corresponding robotic finger when the cylindrical worm gear rotates about the primary axis. |
| US09718193B1 |
Rotary transformer
Example implementations may relate to a rotary transformer configured to transmit data. In some implementations, the rotary transformer may include a primary transformer component with a primary winding magnetically coupled to a secondary transformer component with a secondary winding. The rotary transformer may also include a resonant circuit including a frequency determining element and an amplifier. The frequency determining element may consist of the primary and secondary windings connected in parallel to respective capacitors. The primary transformer component may be coupled to a fixed-frequency signal generator. The rotary transformer may include a modulator coupled to the secondary transformer component and configured to vary the phase of the resonant circuit to generate an output signal and a demodulator coupled to the primary transformer component and configured to demodulate the output signal. |
| US09718188B2 |
Networked robotic manipulators
Robotic manipulators may be used to manipulate objects. Manipulation data about manipulations performed on objects may be generated and accessed. This data may be analyzed to generate a profile indicating how an object may be manipulated. A portion of the profile may be transmitted to a particular robotic manipulator. For example, the portion may be based on a manipulation capability of the robotic manipulator. In turn, the robotic manipulator may use the portion of the profile to manipulate the object. |
| US09718186B2 |
Robot
A robot includes a work tool that performs a work to a work point, and a moving unit that moves the work tool and changes the posture thereof. A console receives an operation to designate the coordinates of arbitrary two or three points on an inclined surface. Upon this operation, a processor calculates a direction of the work tool toward the work point from a work start point based on the coordinates of the arbitrary two or three points, next, a control unit moves the work tool to the work start point, directs the posture of the work tool toward the work point in accordance with the calculation by the processor, and causes the work tool to start a process to the work point. |
| US09718179B1 |
Striking tool having improved head and handle attachment
A striking tool having an improved attachment mechanism to safely and securely attach the head of the tool to the tool handle. In one configuration, the attachment mechanism has a key at the upper end of the handle that is sized and configured to be received in and engage a cooperatively configured keyway on the lower side of the head. In another configuration, the attachment mechanism has a connecting element with an elongated body that extends through a tubular body portion at an upper section of the handle and into a passageway in the head. In yet another configuration, the striking tool has both attachment mechanisms. A striking member made out of harder material can be utilized for the striking portion of the head. The connecting element can connect to an aperture in the striking member. A side nail puller can be positioned on the outer surface of the handle. |
| US09718178B2 |
Staple remover
An automatic staple remover in a gun-shaped housing comprises a trigger that engages a series of levers and one or more springs that ultimately engage a rotating tumbler. Alternatively, the trigger engages an electric motor and gears, or a pneumatic motor and lever arrangement, or a combination of levers and motors to engage the rotating tumbler. Around the perimeter of the tumbler are one or more teeth capable of sliding under a staple. Positioned below the tumbler a removable receptacle catches removed staples. Additionally, the automatic staple remover can include stapler components side-by-side in the same housing that can be engaged by a common trigger. Stapler components comprise a series of levers and springs, a blade assembly, and a plurality of staples in a sleeve. Alternatively, stapler components can include pneumatic motor components or electric motor components. |
| US09718174B2 |
Hand tool assembly with magnetic securing device
A hand tool assembly with magnetic securing device includes a body, a sleeve, a collar and two resilient pieces. The body has a first space and a first groove. The sleeve has a first passage, a second space, a third space, a first distance and a fourth space. A magnetic part is located in the second space. A clip is engaged with the first groove and movable within the third space. A collar is secured in the fourth space to restrict the clip to prevent the body from dropping form the sleeve. The collar has two resilient pieces received therein and each resilient piece has a third engaging portion which contacts the outer periphery of the body to provide friction when the sleeve is moved relative to the body. A driving piece is connected to the body and drives a bolt or a screw which is attracted by the magnetic part. |
| US09718173B2 |
Handheld machine tool having a tool holding fixture
In a handheld machine tool having a tool holding fixture, which has a multi-faced inner receptacle and a multi-faced outer receptacle, the multi-faced inner receptacle being configured for the connection to a first tool insert, which is able to be locked in the multi-faced inner receptacle using a locking device assigned to the tool holding fixture, and the multi-faced outer receptacle being configured for the connection to a second tool insert, which has an inner multi-faced coupling that is able to be slid onto the multi-faced outer receptacle. The locking device has an actuating element, which is rotatable about a longitudinal axis of the tool holding fixture for unlocking the first tool insert from a specified locking position into a specified unlocking position. |
| US09718172B2 |
Electric tool
An electric tool (110) is provided with an output part (112) and a grip part (113). An elastic member (133) is provided between an outer wall surface (131a) of a trigger switch (130) and a housing inner wall surface (111a) of the grip part (113). |
| US09718171B2 |
Rapid adjustable wrench
The present invention relates to a rapid adjustable wrench, the wrench is provided with a worm rotation window on the lower side of the fixed wrench head, the support holes are provided on the both sides of the window, the support holes are the elongated aperture holes that enable the pin shift can radially moving up and down, the spring locating holes are provided on the lower side face of the elongated aperture holes respectively, the spring holds up the pin shaft to prompt the engagement of the teeth of the worm with the teeth of the adjustable wrench head; the length of the spring after the depress at least ensure that the length of the radial displacement of the worm teeth does not exceed the height of the adjustable wrench head teeth, the adjustable wrench head teeth have at least one tooth on the top end of the clamping face side, which height higher than that of the subsequent other teeth. The invention has a simple structure, convenient to use, holding the handle of the wrench with hands and pinching the worm with thumb and forefinger simultaneously to pull it down, such that it can quickly adjust the opening size of the clamping face, improving the using efficiency of the adjustable wrench; the settings for the different teeth height of the adjustable wrench head, in the case of the adjustable wrench head does not removed when achieve the adjustment of the opening size of the clamping face, reducing the processing operation to the adjustable wrench, saving the expense. |
| US09718163B1 |
Eraser wheel assembly structure
The present disclosure illustrates an eraser wheel assembly structure in which an eraser wheel body is fastened with a shell cover by a fastener, so the eraser wheel body can be driven by the grinding tool to rotate for removing glue. The eraser wheel body is disposed in the shell cover and has a plurality of glue removing blocks. The shell cover has a plurality of positioning studs and configured to respectively insert positioning holes of the eraser wheel body. The shell cover has a blocking wall facing a peripheral edge of the disc-based base and a gap to tolerate a radial extension of the disc-shaped base during operation, so as to prevent the peripheral edge of the disc-shaped base from being escaped from the blocking wall and unable back to its former position because of no gap tolerable for the radial extension of deformed disc-shaped base. |
| US09718154B2 |
Slot machining
A method for cutting a blade root retention slot in a turbine engine disk element includes forming a precursor slot in the element. The precursor slot has first and second sidewalls and a base. A rotating bit is passed through the precursor slot to machine the base. The bit rotates about an axis off-normal to a direction of passing. A cutting performance of the rotating bit is modeled reflecting a chip trapping intensity parameter and a heat intensity parameter. At least one parameter of the bit and its passing is selected so as to avoid tool loading where removed chips/swarf stick onto the bit. |
| US09718151B2 |
Reactor measurement-pipe maintenance clamp apparatus
A reactor measurement-pipe maintenance clamp apparatus includes a first clamp mechanism and a second clamp mechanism. The first clamp mechanism includes clamps to fix the measurement pipe between the clamps, first clamp operation bolts that are allowed to be turned by remote control from above a reactor core, and wedge mechanisms to convert the turning of the clamp operation bolts to displacement of the clamps in a radial direction of the diffuser to generate clamping forces for securing the measurement pipe. The second clamp mechanism includes a support clamp to hold the support, a second clamp operation bolt that is allowed to be turned by remote control from above the reactor core, and a wedge mechanism to convert the turning of the second clamp operation bolt to displacement of the support clamp in a tangential direction of the diffuser to generate clamping force for fixing the support. |
| US09718149B2 |
Aluminium composite material having an internal solder layer
The invention relates to a brazable three-layered aluminum composite material having at least three layers with at least two different aluminum alloys, whereby an inner layer of the at least three layers is an aluminum brazing layer made from an aluminum brazing alloy, the other layers are configured as covering layers and include at least one further aluminum alloy, wherein the at least one further aluminum alloy has a higher solidus temperature than the liquidus temperature of the aluminum brazing alloy. The individual covering layers have a thickness which exceeds the thickness of the aluminum brazing layer by at least a factor of 1.5, preferably by a factor of 5. The brazable aluminum composite material is simply structured, has good brazing properties for the production of butt-joint brazing connections, significantly reduces the risk of a ‘burning through’ of brazed-on components and provides sufficient mechanical properties. |
| US09718147B2 |
Method and system to start and use combination filler wire feed and high intensity energy source for root pass welding of the inner diameter of clad pipe
A welding system includes at least one high intensity energy source to create a weld puddle during a root pass on a narrow joint of a workpiece with a clad layer. The system also includes a controller to control a weld ramp out process such that, as the molten puddle advances to a start of an existing root pass weld, the controller at least one of decreases an energy output of the at least one high intensity energy source and reduces an interaction time between the at least one high intensity energy source and the weld puddle. After completion of the root pass, a thickness of a root pass weld in a region that is at or near the start point of the existing root pass weld is in a range of 100 percent to 130 percent of a nominal root pass thickness of a remainder of the root pass weld. |
| US09718146B2 |
System and method for calibrating laser processing machines
A method calibrates a laser processing machine by commanding a scan head to direct a laser beam to a desired position, then senses an actual position of the laser beam directly using a position sensitive detector (PSD) after the scan head is positioned. A relative position between the scan head and PSD is altered using one or more linear actuators. A position feedback loop is closed around the linear actuators so that the relative position of the laser beam on the PSD is reduced to zero. The actual position of the laser spot is then measured indirectly by encoders attached to linear axes of the laser processing machine. The actual position is stored in a memory. An error is determined as a difference between the desired position and the actual position. Compensation coefficients are determined from the error and stored for later use during operation of the laser processing machine. |
| US09718145B2 |
Method of producing aluminum clad member
An aluminum clad member is produced by: disposing a joining assistance member at a joint interface between an Al core member and an Al skin member, which joining assistance member being formed by crossing Al wires with each other in longitudinal and lateral directions to form a grid, and having a structure in which spot-like thick portions having a thickness of 0.2-3.2 mm are formed at intersections of the Al wires and arranged in the longitudinal and lateral directions so as to be spaced apart from each other by a distance of 0.2-13 mm; and performing a hot rolling operation with respect to the thus obtained stack of the Al core member, the Al skin member and the joining assistance member, by partially fixing together those members at their peripheral portions or without fixing together those members, such that the joint interfaces is communicated with an ambient air. |
| US09718142B2 |
Method and apparatus for welding with CV control
A method and apparatus for welding is disclosed. The output is preferably a cyclical CV MIG output, and each cycle is divided into segments. An output parameter is sampled a plurality of times within one or more of the segments. The CV output is controlled within the at least one segment in response to the sampling. The parameter is output power, a resistance of the load, an output current, an output voltage, or functions thereof in various embodiments. The control loop is preferably a PI or PID loop. The loop may be applied only within a window. The set point may be taught or fixed. The system can be used to weld with a controlled arc length. |
| US09718136B2 |
Drill
A drill with a drill flute (12) includes symmetrical fluted lands (20) helically extend around a core, wherein grooves (18) remain between the fluted lands, said grooves having a width (72) that exceeds the spine thickness or width (24) of the fluted lands (20), and wherein the grooves (18) comprise a convex core reinforcement (22) at the groove bottom thereof. The width (24) of the fluted lands (20) at the drill head side end (16) is smaller than at the shank side end (14) of the drill helix (12), and at least increases in certain areas. The core reinforcement (22) at the drill head side end (16) is more convex than at the shank side end (14), thus has larger radii (40, 42). |
| US09718130B1 |
Illuminated and modular soft tissue retractor
A surgical retractor for illuminating a surgical field includes an ergonomic handle, a retractor blade coupled with the handle, a quick release mechanism, and an illuminator blade. The retractor blade is adapted to engage and retract tissue, and the quick release mechanism is adapted to couple the handle with the retractor blade. The illuminator blade acts as a waveguide to transmit light by total internal reflection. Light is extracted from the illuminator to illuminate the surgical field. The retractor blade is releasable from the handle without requiring uncoupling of the illuminator blade from the handle and also without requiring optical uncoupling of the illuminator blade from a light source. The retractor may also be adapted to evacuate smoke from the surgical field. |
| US09718115B2 |
Production method for a semi-finished product and semi-finished product
The production method according to the invention for creating a thread in an elongated semi-finished product comprises the following steps: shaping, especially lengthwise rolling, of at least two lengthwise grooves into a blank and lengthwise rolling of a thread into the areas circumferentially delimited by the grooves. The distance from the beds of the grooves to the axis of the blank is smaller than the distance from the root of the thread to the axis. |
| US09718113B2 |
Press-formed product
A press-formed product includes a body having a transverse cross section including a bottom portion and a shoulder portion contiguous to the bottom portion through an R end. In the transverse cross section, a first region from the R end to a position a distance away in a bottom portion extending direction, and a second region which is part of the bottom portion and is contiguous to the first region have a work-hardening distribution introduced by press-forming. The work-hardening distribution has an average hardness Hv1 of an area of the first region from a steel sheet surface to a depth obtained by multiplying a steel sheet thickness by 0.2 and an average hardness Hv2 of an area of the second region from the steel sheet surface to a position obtained by multiplying the steel sheet thickness by 0.2 to satisfy a relationship of Hv1>1.05×Hv2. |
| US09718103B2 |
Devices and methods for soil remediation
The present invention provides devices or systems and a method for remediating a soil comprising contaminants, comprising the steps of: —introducing in said soil at least one perforated column for contaminant extraction from a contaminated region of said soil; in close proximity of said at least one perforated column introducing at least one non-perforated column for providing heat to said contaminated region of said soil; providing heat to said at least one non-perforated column; extracting said contaminant vapor containing said soil contaminants out of said contaminated region of said soil into said at least one perforated column; removing said contaminant vapor from said at least one perforated column, thereby providing remediated soil; wherein said at least one perforated column and said at least one non-perforated column are connectable to at least one surface-located device comprising a combustion, a heating and control unit for heating and thereby cleaning said soil. |
| US09718095B2 |
Headlight restoration kit
A method and kit for restoration of a plastic headlight surface including the steps of conditioning a headlight surface by wet sanding with 600 grit sandpaper effective to remove a laminate coating, wiping the headlight surface with a lint free towel, cleaning the headlight surface with an alcohol treated towel, coating the headlight surface with an ultra violet light curable restoration formulation comprising aliphatic urethane acrylate in the range of 25% to 60%, a photoinitiator in the range of 1% to 5%, N-butyl acetate in the range of 5% to 25%, Toluene in the range of 3% to 15%, a Methyl isobutyl ketone in the range of 3% to 15%, a light stabilizer in the range of 1% to 5%, and includes a flow agent; and exposing the coated headlight surface to an ultra-violet light for about 2 minutes. In the preferred embodiment, the formulation includes a hydrocarbon propellant and is applied from a spray can. |
| US09718079B2 |
Method and apparatus for treating components
A dip tank is fillable with a liquid. An accommodation device accommodates components and is rotatingly drivable around an axis of rotation. The accommodation device and the dip tank are movable relative to each other to dip the components in the dip tank or to lift the components out of the dip tank. A splash guard is provided. A lifting device is arranged to move the splash guard relative to the dip tank. |
| US09718078B1 |
Piezoceramic based atomizer for high viscosity liquids
A piezoceramic based atomizer for atomizing high viscosity liquid is provided. The atomizer comprises a storing tank as a reservoir for storing the liquid, a receiving tank connecting to the storing tank, a piezoceramic based nozzle for forming micro-droplets of the liquid, and an external ultrasonic oscillation circuit. The nozzle comprises a liquid absorbing medium with at least one sunk area at one end for pumping and delivering the liquid, a holder for holding the absorbing medium, a micro-perforated membrane whose one side is attached on the side of the liquid absorbing medium having the sunk area, and an annular piezoceramic adhered to the other side of the membrane. The nozzle is configured such that the sunk area can balance the feeding rate and atomization rate of the liquid as well as hold the back pressure underneath the micro-perforated membrane, facilitating forming micro-droplets of the high viscosity liquid continuously. |
| US09718074B2 |
Spray bottle and spray bottle cap thereof
A spray bottle cap comprising a base lid, a pressing head and a protective cap. An upper end of an inner wall of the base lid is provided with a first limit rib and a first guide groove penetrating the first limit rib. The pressing head connects to the upper end of the base lid, and comprises a outlet rob, a pressing handle and a connection portion, where the outlet rod is provided with an outer thread, the lower end of the connection portion is provided with a first limit flange and a protrusion portion, and the pressing handle is provided with an anti-reversion snap parent body; the first limit flange is arranged under the first limit rib, and the protrusion portion is up-down slidable along the first guide groove and is supportable on the upper end face of the base lid. The protection cap is a double-layer structure covering the outside of the outlet rod. |
| US09718073B2 |
Pump for discharging contents
The present invention relates to a pump for discharging contents, in which a pump upper body having contents outlets formed therein is inserted into the upper part of a pump main body having a contents inlet formed therein, a pump inner body is fitted into the inside of the pump main body and the pump upper body, the pump inner body integrally includes the serving as a temporary content reservoir for temporarily storing the contents, a suction valve plate for sucking the contents, and a discharge valve protruding ring for discharging the contents, and thus the contents are discharged as the volume of the temporary content reservoir in the pump inner body is changed by vertically moving the pump upper body relative to the pump main body. |
| US09718071B2 |
Multifunctional spray machine for cold macro- and micro-spray
The invention proposed refers to a Multifunctional cold macro- and micro-spray spraying machine, techniques known as “coldspraying” and “coldfogging” done automatically and independently by a single spray machine, making it a multifunctional spray machine able to perform shock treatments and to maintain atmospheric deinsecting, disinfection, deodorizing and odorizing depending on the liquid formulation of active agents dosed. |
| US09718064B1 |
Submicron grinding mill
A vertical and horizontal mills and discs therefor for grinding particles to submicron size. The mills include two overlapping vertical barrels. Each barrel has a shaft and a plurality of circular discs attached to the shaft disposed in each barrel for grinding materials to submicron size. The discs have an open mesh design provided by overlapping rectangular blades. Each blade has at least two opposing walls orthogonal to a plane defined by the disc. Each disc on one shaft overlaps a disc on the other shaft by from 30 to 45% of the diameter of the discs. An inlet is provided for feeding material to be ground by the mill to the overlapped portion of the discs. An outlet is disposed at an end of the mill opposite the inlet for removing ground material from the mill. |
| US09718061B2 |
Instruments and method relating to thermal cycling
The present invention relates to a device for thermal cycling of biological samples, a heat sink used in such a device and a method. The heat sink comprises a base plate designed to fit in a good thermal contact against a generally planar thermoelectric element included in the device, and a plurality of heat transfer elements projecting away from the base plate. According to the invention, the heat transfer elements of the heat sink and arranged in a non-parallel configuration with respect to each other for keeping the temperature of the base plate of the heat sink spatially uniform during thermal cycling. |
| US09718059B2 |
Multi-well tray and rack therefor
System, apparatuses, and methods for performing automated reagent-based analysis are provided. Also provided are methods for automated attachment of a cap to a reaction receptacle, and automated removal of a cap from a capped reaction receptacle. |
| US09718058B2 |
Cartridges, kits, and methods for enhanced detection and quantification of analytes
Devices, systems, and methods for detecting molecules of interest within a collected sample are described herein. In certain embodiments, self-contained sample analysis systems are disclosed, which include a reusable reader component, a disposable cartridge component, and a disposable sample collection component. The reader component may communicate with a remote computing device for the digital transmission of test protocols and test results. In various disclosed embodiments, the systems, components, and methods are configured to identify the presence, absence, and/or quantity of particular nucleic acids, proteins, or other analytes of interest, for example, in order to test for the presence of one or more pathogens or contaminants in a sample. |
| US09718057B2 |
Microfluidic device and method thereof
A microfluidic device includes a platform with a microstructure. The microstructure include a primary channel and a plurality of chambers that open to the primary channel to enable a sample fluid that is loaded into the device via the primary channel to flow into the chambers. Each chamber has a volume that is less than tens of nanoliters and is connected by a vent to a secondary channel of the microstructure. A width of the vent is configured to enable a gas to escape from the chamber to the secondary channel while inhibiting flow of the sample fluid from the chamber into the secondary channel. |
| US09718054B2 |
Production of ethylene with nanowire catalysts
Methods for producing ethylene using nanowires as heterogeneous catalysts are provided. The method includes, for example, an oxidative coupling of methane catalyzed by nanowires to provide ethylene. |
| US09718052B2 |
Catalysts and related processes for producing optically pure beta-lactones from aldehydes and compositions produced thereby
Bi-functional cobalt-containing catalysts useful for making stereospecific compounds and compositions, along with methods of making, and uses thereof in the syntheses of optically pure β-lactones from aldehydes and ketene are described. Precursors, intermediates, compositions, and particular features of the use if the compositions, such as high enantiomeric selectivity, high yield and low mole percent of catalyst useful are provided. |
| US09718051B2 |
Zeolite SSZ-57 having enhanced large pore selectvity
The present invention is directed to an alumino-borosilicate SSZ-57 zeolite having enhanced large pore selectivity. The alumino-borosilicate SSZ-57 zeolite of the present invention is characterized as having substantially all of its aluminum atoms located within regions of the zeolite structure which form the 12 ring channels. |
| US09718049B2 |
Oxide materials and synthesis by fluoride/chloride anion promoted exfoliation
The present invention is directed to the synthesis of novel delaminated layered zeolite precursor materials prepared by fluoride/chloride anion-promoted exfoliation. The method comprises, for example, using a combination of fluoride and chloride anions at a mild pH in aqueous solution to affect delamination of a layered zeolite precursor. The method can also comprise using a combination of fluoride and chloride anions in a non-aqueous solution comprising an organic solvent. The method may be used in conjunction with either acidification or sonication, or both. The resulting delaminated zeolite precursors are then isolated. Precursors that are then isolated lack amorphous silica content. The UCB-1 product is an example of such a novel oxide material and is obtained in yields in excess of 90% without the need for sonication. |
| US09718034B1 |
Aeration device
An aeration device includes a pipe, connection members and a first connection unit which is connected to the connection member. The first connection unit includes a first connector, a first connection part, a one-way member, a second connector, a turbine unit and a shell. When air enters into the pipe, the shell guides the air and liquid in the pound into the turbine unit via the second and third rooms so as to increase the mixing feature of the air and the liquid in the pound. |
| US09718029B2 |
Serviceable bioreactor
The invention resides in an apparatus for treatment of a substance. The apparatus has a substance tube for enabling a substance to be treated to pass in to the substance tube via the substance-inlet and out of the substance tube through the substance-outlet. The apparatus also has a cleaning chamber, wherein the substance tube is configured in fluid communication with the cleaning chamber to enable a substance to diffuse the permeable membrane between the substance tube and the cleaning chamber such that a substance can be substantially cleaned by a cleaner, the substance comprising blood or plasma and the cleaner comprising a cell culture. The substance tube is removably connectable with the cleaning chamber for inter-changeability or serviceability. The apparatus can further comprise a support compartment configured to connect to, or enclosing, the cleaning chamber, which functions to carry a fluid to substantially maintain the functionality of the cleaner. |
| US09718028B2 |
Distribution plate for crossflow filtration cassettes
The invention discloses a distribution plate for supplying crossflow filtration cassettes, which comprises a surface, two opposite end walls, two opposite side walls, a feed channel in fluid communication with a feed inlet port and with a plurality of feed apertures; a retentate channel in fluid communication with a retentate outlet port, and with a plurality of retentate apertures; and a permeate channel in fluid communication with two permeate outlet ports and with a plurality of permeate apertures;wherein the feed channel, the retentate channel and the permeate channel extend in a direction essentially parallel with one or both side walls;wherein the feed apertures are grouped at a first area on the surface, the retentate apertures are grouped at a second area on the surface;wherein the permeate apertures are located at the first and/or the second area; andwherein a plurality of permeate connector channels extend inside the plate from at least one region of the permeate channel, adjacent the permeate outlet ports and the permeate connector channels provide fluidic communication between the permeate apertures and the permeate channel. |
| US09718025B2 |
Reducing hydrochloric acid in cement kilns
The description relates to reducing hydrochloric acid in cement kilns. In one aspect, an aqueous copper-based chloride remediator is introduced into contact with combustion gases from a cement kiln. Injection is made into a defined introduction zone under conditions effective for HCl emissions control wherein the temperature is within the range of from 300° F. to 800° F., preferably from 550° F. to 750° F. The resulting gases are discharged from the defined zone following sufficient reaction time to reduce the HCl concentration in the gases. |
| US09718022B2 |
Device for producing purified oxygen
A device for producing purified oxygen, has a feed (1, 1′) of a mixture of oxygen and argon, and has at least one bed (2, 2A, 2B) of oxygen adsorption material, a purge (3, 3′) for discharging the separated argon and a circuit (4, 4′) for injecting a portion of the purified oxygen produced, into the feed (1, 1′). The device has a programmable logic controller (PLC) for treating the degree of purity and/or the production flow rate that can be set by the user and a control of said purge (3, 3′) as a function of the degree of purity of the purified oxygen and/or of the production flow rate which are desired by the user. |
| US09718020B2 |
Waved filter media and elements
Various high performance, high efficiency filter media are provided that are cost effective and easy to manufacture. In particular, various filter media are provided having at least one layer with a waved configuration that results in an increased surface area, thereby enhancing various properties of the filter media. The filter media can be used to form a variety of filter elements for use in various applications. |
| US09718017B2 |
Multi-filter chemical speciation sampler and virtual impaction particle separation inlet therefore
A multi-filter chemical speciation sampler and a virtual impaction particle separation inlet therefore are provided. The inlet includes a housing having a bottom, a collection tube that extends through the bottom, and collection apertures formed in the bottom, arranged around the collection tube; a first plate disposed on top of the housing, having acceleration nozzles disposed at the perimeter thereof; a second plate disposed in the housing below the first plate, having a central aperture and separation apertures disposed around the central aperture. The sampler includes: an inlet; a virtual impaction separator to further fractionate the PM into a course fraction and a fine fraction; a first separation assembly to divide the course fraction into coarse aliquots, comprising first filters to collect the coarse aliquots; a second separation assembly to divide the fine fraction into fine aliquots, comprising second filters to collect the fine aliquots. |
| US09718016B2 |
Apparatus for extracting radioactive solid particles and method thereof
An apparatus is provided to extract radioactive solid particles. An extracting nozzle is used to extract radioactive solid particles. Then, a separator is used to separate out the radioactive solid particles into a storing container. The radioactive solid particles are avoided from entering a suction pump. Not only the suction pump is not polluted, but also the secondary waste is not increased. By designing a falling inlet of a suction channel at a position having a specific height, the amount of the radioactive solid particles being extracted is under control. There is a radiation-protection device outside of the storing container to minimize radiation dose. The separator and the storing container can be rapidly detached by remote operation, so that operators are avoided from receiving over-dose radiation. Hence, the present invention improves the level of technology and automation for handling radioactive waste. |
| US09718014B2 |
Device and method for cleaning bag filters
A device configured for cleaning bag filters with compressed air comprises a frame having a hollow interior defining a wall of the frame and openings formed through a thickness of the wall so that the hollow interior is in open communication with an environment external to the frame. A mounting member is configured to be releaseably or permanently attached to one end of the frame and is further configured to be releaseably or permanently attached to a member configured to pass air flow therethrough. |
| US09718012B2 |
Fine fiber media layer
Disclosed are improved polymer materials. Also disclosed are fine fiber materials that can be made from the improved polymeric materials in the form of microfiber and nanofiber structures. The microfiber and nanofiber structures can be used in a variety of useful applications including the formation of filter materials. |
| US09718007B2 |
Modular stormwater filtration
A modular drainage filtration apparatus comprising a filtration container having an open-ended structure with a shape determined by the number of walls used during assembly, each wall being formed from a generally flat sheet of a rigid material and comprising a flat body portion with a plurality of formed tabs and an upper and lower overhanging portion, the walls being assembled to form a filtration container enclose an interior region and having open and opposite upper and lower faces and a plurality of filtration units each comprising a flat filter stage configured to be placed within a filtration container. |
| US09718005B2 |
Fuel filter of an internal combustion engine, and filter element of a fuel filter
Disclosed is a fuel filter (10) for fuel, in particular diesel fuel, of an internal combustion engine, in particular of a motor vehicle, and to a filter element of such a fuel filter. A housing (12) has at least one fuel inlet (26) for the fuel to be cleaned, at least one fuel outlet (18) for cleaned fuel, and at least one water outlet (30) for water which has been separated from the fuel. The filter element (36) is arranged in the housing (12), said filter element sealingly separating the fuel inlet (26) from the fuel outlet (18). The filter element (36) has a filter medium (38) which is designed as a hollow body and which can be permeated from the inside to the outside or from the outside to the inside in order to filter the fuel. The filter element (36) has a coalescing medium (58) designed as a hollow body for separating water contained in the fuel. The coalescing medium (58) is arranged downstream of the filter medium (38) in the flow path (78) of the fuel, around said filter medium, or in the interior (45) delimited by the filter medium. The coalescing medium (58) includes at least one regenerated-fiber coalescing system consisting of a coalescing material (60) which is suitable for coalescing water and which has at least 20 wt. % of regenerated fibers, preferably at least 50 wt. %. |
| US09718000B2 |
Apparatus and method for material treatment of raw materials
The invention relates to an apparatus for the material treatment of raw materials. The apparatus has a heating system, a distillation unit and a reaction unit to be loaded with the raw materials for treatment. The heating system can be opened and closed to be fitted with the reaction unit. The heating system comprises a top element and a jacket element firmly connected to the top element, and supporting elements. The length of the support elements can be varied in the vertical direction, between two end positions, the heating system can be opened and closed in the vertical direction of movement. The invention further relates to a method for operating an apparatus for the material treatment of raw materials. |
| US09717998B2 |
Double-sided toy car
A double-sided toy vehicle comprises a vehicle body, a driving mechanism, a transmission mechanism, a driven wheel set, a first driving wheel set and a second driving wheel set, in which the transmission mechanism comprises a reverse gear, a double gear, a transition gear, a first output gear and a second output gear; the reverse gear meshes with a rotating shaft gear of an electrical motor of the driving mechanism, and provided with an axial gear protruding axially and meshing with a first gear of the double gear; the double gear is provided at a position between the first output gear and the second output gear, achieving transmission of power of the electrical motor; the first output gear meshes with a second gear of the double gear through the transition gear, and the second output gear directly meshes with the second gear of the double gear to achieve the transmission. |
| US09717997B2 |
Method to render global 5 DoF motion effect with multiple local force-feedback
In order to generate force feedback data for a haptic device for providing simulated six degrees of freedom movement, a three dimensional acceleration component corresponding to the movement to be simulated is determined, a three dimensional velocity component corresponding to the movement to be simulated is determined and control signals for controlling at least three force feedback devices are determined, wherein each of the three force feedback devices provides three dimensional force effects to a fixation point associated to each of it, the three force feedback devices being arranged at defined positions with regard to each other, and the three fixation points define a geometric plane. |
| US09717996B1 |
Single-side-clamped slide
A single-side-clamped slide has a slide body and a fixing assembly. The fixing assembly has a connecting rod mounted on the slide body, and at least one clamping unit. Each clamping unit has a hook and an abutter mounted through and screwed with the hook. When in use, the clamping unit is mounted around a rear side of a tread of an open riser stairway, and abuts downward against a top surface of the tread. Then, the abutter is rotated until tightly abutting upward against a bottom of the tread, such that the clamping unit and the abutter securely clamp the tread. Therefore, the fixing assembly can be stably connected to the tread even though only clamping the rear side of the tread. In addition, the slide can be adapted to treads with different front-rear lengths since the fixing assembly only clamps one single side of the tread. |
| US09717992B2 |
Invalidating network devices with illicit peripherals
A system and method for passively validating network game users is provided. Data indicative of game behavior and actions at one or more nodes interacting with a network game in a network game community are monitored. The data is evaluated to determine whether the one or more nodes are adhering to one or more rules associated with the network game. Data indicative of illicit game behavior may trigger various responses including invalidation of the node engaged in the illicit behavior. Alternatively, a query may be generated to further identify the nature and/or actual existence of illicit behavior at the node. Monitoring of game data may occur at a server, a peer, as part of a peer group or combinations thereof, which may be based on routine schedule or part of constant game behavior monitoring. |
| US09717990B2 |
Network game system for executing event in network game
A network game system includes a server apparatus and a plurality of video game apparatuses connected to the server apparatus. A party includes player characters of a plurality of players. When the party battles with an opponent character, the server apparatus simultaneously transmits movie playback information to each video game apparatus for starting playback of a movie. Each of the players can skip the movie at a desired timing. A screen is displayed on each video game apparatus that has skipped the movie until the battle starts. When information is received from each video game apparatus that indicates playback of the movie has ended, the server apparatus simultaneously transmits battle start information to each video game apparatus. |
| US09717984B1 |
Method of modifying locations
The subject matter discloses in a virtual location in an interactive multiplayer game of an online or mobile environment, modeling a real world area of real estate, wherein operations by players of the interactive game influence development of the real estate, a method comprising: receiving from a plurality of players of the interactive game a plurality of requests for modifying the virtual location; The requests include operation; selecting an operation from the operations included in the requests according to a rule and processing the selected operation for modifying the virtual location. |
| US09717983B1 |
Race management system
A race management system is described. In one aspect, a race is chosen and an interested/committed selection is made. If “interested” is selected, the race management system prioritizes races, updates and displays a race menu, and updates and displays an interested/committed list. A TEL (Tentative Entry List) database can notify trainers when they have horses that are interested in a race that has made the TEL. Updates are sent to and/or received from the TEL database. If “committed” is selected, the race management system executes similar steps as if “interested” was selected. In another aspect, a one-day TEL template is uploaded, protocol races are inserted into the template, and prioritized races are transferred from the TEL database to the template. Based on this prioritization, the one-day TEL is constructed. |
| US09717982B2 |
Client rendering of latency sensitive game features
Embodiments of the present invention split game processing and rendering between a client and a game server. A rendered video game image is received from a game server and combined with a rendered image generated by the game client to form a single video game image that is presented to a user. Game play may be controlled using a rich sensory input, such as three-dimensional image data and audio data. The three-dimensional image data describes the shape, size and orientation of objects present in a play space. The rich sensory input is communicated to a game server, potentially with some preprocessing, and is also consumed locally on the client, at least in part. In one embodiment, latency sensitive features are the only features processed on the client and rendered on the client. |
| US09717980B2 |
Optical system for a roulette wheel
In a first aspect, there is described an optical system for monitoring a ball play volume of a roulette wheel. The optical system comprises an electronic image detector and a reflector arranged to reflect light from a ball play volume of a roulette wheel onto the electronic image detector. The electronic image detector is configured to form an image of the ball play volume from the reflected light. In a second aspect, there is described a method of monitoring a ball play volume of a roulette wheel. The method comprises the steps of using a reflector to reflect light from the ball play volume, and forming an image of the ball play volume from the reflected light. In a third aspect, there is described a method of manufacturing an optical system for monitoring a ball play volume of a roulette wheel. The method comprises the steps of providing an electronic image detector, and providing a reflector arranged to reflect light from a ball play volume of a roulette wheel onto the electronic image detector. |
| US09717974B2 |
Pole and support base assembly
Certain embodiments of the present disclosure describe a pole and base assembly. The pole and base assembly includes a pole with an upper engagement portion and a lower engagement portion that are biased toward each other. A base includes a socket to receive the pole and a channel that allows the lower engagement portion to pass through the base. The upper engagement portion is retained on the top surface of the base. When the lower engagement portion is passed through the socket and aligned with a locking portion, the biasing force causes the upper and lower engagement portions to clamp together around the base and lock the pole to the base. |
| US09717973B2 |
Basketball stopping wall
The present disclosure provides a basketball stopping apparatus arranged for attachment to a basketball goal assembly. In some embodiments, the basketball stopping apparatus is configurable between a first position and a second position, the first position being arranged for the deflection of errant basketball shots and the second position being arranged for storage of the basketball stopping apparatus before and/or after use. Additionally, some embodiments include a wall coupled to base arms that are pivotably mounted to a bottom end of the basketball goal assembly. |
| US09717966B1 |
Golf accessory support system
A support device is formed in a Y-shaped configuration having a lower assembly and upper arms and a ring coupled to lower extents of the upper arms and to an upper extent of the lower assembly. The upper arms include two gypsy studs attached to the upper arms remote from the ring. The gypsy studs are removably attachable to a golf bag. The lower assembly includes an upper section with upper and lower ends. The lower assembly includes a lower section with upper and lower ends. The lower assembly includes a release mechanism separably coupling the upper and lower sections. A clip is attached to the lower end of the lower section for removably receiving and supporting a golf accessory. |
| US09717963B2 |
Golf club shaft
An object of the present invention is to provide a golf club shaft having excellent strength. The present invention provides a golf club shaft made of a fiber-reinforced epoxy resin material comprising a cured product of an epoxy resin composition and a reinforcing fiber, wherein the epoxy resin composition comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of a bisphenol A type epoxy resin, a bisphenol F type epoxy resin and a novolac type epoxy resin, and a tetraglycidyl type epoxy resin as an epoxy resin component, and the cured product of the epoxy resin composition has a swelling ratio in a range from 20 mass % to 44 mass % in methyl ethyl ketone. |
| US09717962B1 |
Golf club head with center of gravity adjustability that optimizes products of inertia
The present invention comprises a golf club head comprising a body having a crown, a sole, a front wall and a hosel, wherein the body defines a hollow interior. The golf club head further comprises a center of gravity height adjustment assembly wherein the center of gravity height adjustment assembly is positioned within the hollow interior of the body. The products of inertia (Ixz and Iyz) of the golf club head have an absolute value below 100 g-cm2. |
| US09717957B2 |
Multi-layer core golf ball
A golf ball comprising a core and a cover, wherein the core consists of: a solid inner core layer formed from an unfoamed thermoplastic composition and having a diameter of 1.10 inch or less and a center Shore C hardness (Hcenter) of 50 or less, one or more optional intermediate core layers, and an outer core layer formed from an unfoamed thermoset composition and having a thickness of 0.200 inches or greater and an outer surface Shore C hardness (Houter surface) of 70 or greater, wherein Houter surface>Hcenter, and Houter surface−Hcenter≧40. |
| US09717956B2 |
Stiff core golf ball and methods of making same
A golf ball is provided that has a spherical core exhibiting a stiffness from 400 MPa to 200 GPa. The stiffness of the core may be controlled by adjusting the materials of construction and the ratio of the materials. This results in a golf ball that is legal for play and capable of drive distances essentially equivalent to those of currently-available high performance golf balls, but also provides a golf ball that has less hook and slice during play. |
| US09717953B1 |
Ergonomic swimming hand paddle
A swim training paddle for swimmer's hands having: a plate member with a first surface and an opposed second surface and a leading edge and a trailing edge; the opposed first surface and second surface being separated by a leading edge and a trailing edge on opposed ends thereof; the plate member formed to mount to the swimmer's hand with the first surface contacting the players hand; at least two elastic strips forming each forming separate arcs on the first surface and extending out of the second surface; the plate member covering all phalanges and metacarpal bones in swimmers' hands secured to the plate member have an area inset into the plate above the wrist above the ulna so flexing and pronating of the wrist does not allow the trailing edge to be forced into wrist within 2 cm of the ulna. |
| US09717952B2 |
Resistance apparatus, system, and method
A resistance exercise system having, in certain embodiments, a DC power supply system, a DC motor connected to the DC power supply system, a drive section connected to a drive element, a resistance delivery element connected to the drive element, and an extractable exercise resistance delivery section, a predetermined variable resistance section intermediate the DC power supply system and DC motor, an electrical condition sensor, and a variable resistance section control in communication with the electrical condition sensor and the predetermined variable resistance section. In some embodiments, the resistance exercise system includes a computing facility providing the ability to configure the exercise system to provide predetermined static or variable exercise resistance during exercise, and for example, during a positive or negative exercise stroke. Some embodiments allow users to create and, if desired, display varying and complex resistance exercise routines with or without use of resistance weights. |
| US09717947B2 |
Climbing exerciser machine with adjustable inclination
A climbing exercise machine with adjustable inclination includes a frame, an exercising unit including pair of arm members respectively pivotally mounted to the frame, a pedal unit including a pair of pedal shafts respectively pivotally connected to the arm members, a damper including a rotatable wheel with an axle and adapted for providing damping to the pedal unit, a guide unit including a pair of cranks respectively fixedly connected to opposite ends of the axle of the rotatable wheel and respectively pivotally connected to the pedal shafts, a pair of rockers respectively pivotally connected to the cranks and a pair of links respectively pivotally connected to the rockers, and an adjusting unit mounted to the frame and adapted for driving the links to adjust the distance between a rear pivoting portion of each rocker and the frame and to achieve adjustment of the inclination of the climbing exercise machine. |
| US09717941B2 |
Exercise device
An exercise apparatus for use by a person on a support surface comprises a base that includes a bottom side and a top side, the top side having a rigid support mechanism projecting upwardly therefrom. A weight has a first side and a second side and is adapted for rotational engagement with the support mechanism of the base between a first position on one side of the support mechanism and a second position on an opposing side of the support mechanism. Multiple standoffs projecting upwardly from the base are each adapted to contact and support the weight when in either the first position or the second position, defining a gap between the weight and the base to facilitate the gripping of the weight by the person. At least one auxiliary weight support may be included to receive at least one auxiliary weight thereon. |
| US09717938B2 |
Fire and smoke compositions and the processes of making them
A sodium polyacrylate and distilled water composition for fire and smoke prevention, suppression or extinction, and methods of making and using the same. |
| US09717937B2 |
Sprinkler deflector
A sprinkler assembly including a fluid deflecting structure including a plurality of spaced apart tines defining a plurality of slots. The tines include a first pair of symmetric tines and a second pair of symmetric tines disposed orthogonally to the first pair of symmetric tines. The plurality of slots includes a group of asymmetric slots each having a first portion with a constant width and a second portion with a variable width radially outward of the first portion of the asymmetric slot. |
| US09717936B2 |
Sprinkler assembly
A sprinkler assembly that includes a frame having a body including an inlet, an outlet and an internal passageway extending between the inlet and the outlet to define a longitudinal sprinkler axis. Two frame arms extend distally from the body, and each arm has a portion defining a cross-sectional area with a lateral surface and a medial surface spaced about a first plane bisecting the body with the sprinkler axis disposed in the first plane. An axially aligned thermally responsive glass-bulb type trigger is disposed along the sprinkler axis. The cross-sectional areas of the frame arms are asymmetrical with respect to one another about the first plane and each cross-sectional area is asymmetric about a second plane perpendicular to the first plane. The lateral surface of each arm includes an undulation to provide the sprinkler assembly with substantially consistent thermal sensitivity about the sprinkler axis. |
| US09717935B2 |
Venting assembly for wet pipe fire protection sprinkler system
A wet pipe fire protection sprinkler system and method of operating a wet pipe fire sprinkler system includes providing a sprinkler system having a pipe network, a source of water for the pipe network, at least one sprinkler head connected with the pipe network and a drain valve for draining the pipe network. An inert gas source, such as a nitrogen gas source, is connected with the pipe network. Inert gas is supplied from the inert gas source to the pipe network. Water is supplied to the pipe network thereby substantially filling the pipe network with water and compressing the inert gas in the pipe network. |
| US09717929B2 |
Dentifrice compositions containing calcium silicate and a basic amino acid
An oral care composition includes an effective amount of a basic amino acid in free or salt form; and an effective amount of calcium silicate particles. The calcium silicate particles have an average diameter of less than about 5 microns, such that they can occlude dentinal tubules of the teeth. An oral care method includes applying the composition to an oral cavity of a subject to reduce or inhibit hypersensitivity of the teeth and to achieve other benefits. |
| US09717927B2 |
Electromagnetic radiation targeting devices, assemblies, systems and methods
The present application is directed to devices, assemblies, systems and methods for targeting one or more sites with electromagnetic radiation. The devices, assemblies and systems are operationally configured to transform and convey electromagnetic radiation to one or more targeted sites. The devices, assemblies and systems may also convey one or more fluids or fluid solutions to the one or more targeted sites. |
| US09717926B2 |
Double helix conductor with eight connectors and counter-rotating fields
An electrical system including a body may have a structure resembling a double helix having twisted conductive wires wound around both helical structures. The electrical system may be used to produce useful electromagnetic effects for various applications, including providing therapy and promoting growth of living organisms. |
| US09717924B2 |
External defibrillator with shock activated by cessation of precordial compressions
A defibrillator having a pair of electrodes for delivering an artifact-compensated defibrillation shock and a method thereof is provided. The defibrillator can be deployed rapidly while administering a cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on the patient. Upon detection of an end of the CPR operation, a correlation signal indicative of signal corruption is detected and analyzed rapidly to determine an appropriate energy level discharged across the pair of electrodes. Thereafter, a notification signal is sent to the user of the defibrillator prior to delivering the defibrillation shock to the patient. The artifact-compensated defibrillation shock is delivered if for a predetermined period of time no movement is detected. |
| US09717916B2 |
System for determination and utilization of cardiac electrical asynchrony data
One embodiment provides a system for determination and utilization of cardiac electrical asynchrony data. The system includes an analysis circuitry including a processor and a memory, the analysis circuitry configured to: obtain a plurality of sets of cardiac signals collected in at least two locations of a heart of a patient, the signals comprising at least one of surface electrocardiography signals and pseudo-surface ECG signals; detect one or more QRS complexes for each of the sets based on the cardiac signals for that set; obtain one or more cross-correlation signals, each of the cross-correlation signals being between at least two of the signal sets and being obtained using the detected QRS complexes from the signal sets; and calculate one or more asynchrony indices using one or more of the cross-correlation signals, each of the asynchrony indices being indicative of a level of asynchrony between the at least two locations. |
| US09717913B2 |
Technique for determining electrode current distribution
A system and method of providing therapy to a patient using a plurality of electrodes implanted within the patient. A virtual multipole configuration is defined relative to the plurality of electrodes. The distance between each of a group of the electrodes and a virtual pole of the virtual multipole configuration is determined. A stimulation amplitude distribution is determined for the electrode group based on the determined distances, thereby emulating the virtual multipole configuration. Electrical energy is conveyed from the electrode group in accordance with the computed stimulation amplitude distribution. |
| US09717903B1 |
Electronic process to restore, improve and/or strengthen the libido; method to mend the sex drive in males and females
Methods to restore and/or improve the libido, the sex drive, in males and females, without introducing any external unnatural drugs. The process utilizes a TENS/EMS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation/Electronic Muscle Stimulation) machine to naturally generate the increased production by the human body's nerve fiber's neurotransmitters. |
| US09717902B2 |
Pacing lead for a left cavity of the heart, implanted in the coronary system
A pacing lead for a left cavity of the heart, implanted in the coronary system. The lead includes a lead body with a hollow sheath of deformable material, having a central lumen open at both ends, and at least one telescopic microcable of conductive material. The microcable slides along the length of the lead body and extends beyond the distal end thereof. The part emerging beyond the distal end is an active free part comprising a plurality of distinct bare areas, intended to come into contact with the wall of a target vein of the coronary system, so as to form a network of stimulation electrodes electrically connected together in parallel. The microcable further comprises, proximally, a connector to a generator of active implantable medical device such as a pacemaker or a resynchronizer. |
| US09717898B2 |
Systems and methods for implanting a medical electrical lead
Implant tools and techniques for implantation of a medical lead, catheter or other implantable component are provided. The implant tools and techniques are particularly useful in implanting medical electrical leads in implant locations such as substernal spaces or subcutaneous locations. The implant tools include a sheath coupled to a sealing device. The sheath includes a continuous lumen that is in fluid communication with a passage of the sealing device. The lead is advanced through the passage and the lumen for placement of the distal end of the lead at the implant location. |
| US09717894B2 |
Fixation and protection of an implanted medical device
Fixation and protective components for use with implantable medical devices, such as access ports and catheters, are disclosed. In one embodiment, a protective sleeve is employed about a catheter so as to distribute compressive loads and ensure patency of the catheter lumen, even in areas prone to pinch-off. A catheter assembly in one embodiment thus comprises an elongate catheter tube that defines at least one lumen. A protective mesh sleeve is disposed about an external portion of the catheter tube so as to cover at least a portion of the longitudinal length of the catheter tube. The protective sleeve is configured to distribute a compressive load on the catheter tube so as to ensure patency of the at least one lumen of the catheter tube. |
| US09717892B2 |
Dispensing applicator for fluids
A liquid dispensing applicator may include a liquid source for housing a liquid. An absorbent member may be adjacent to a proximal end of the liquid source, and may be configured to deliver the liquid to an external surface. An attachment member may secure the absorbent member to the liquid source, and may include a through passage to allow the liquid to flow from the liquid source into the absorbent member. A rigid member may extend outwardly from the attachment member into the absorbent member. A shield member may be positioned adjacent to the attachment member and may extend from the attachment member so as to be positioned within the absorbent member. A capillary tube may be configured to provide fluid communication between the liquid source and the liquid dispenser upon application of pressure to the liquid source. |
| US09717889B2 |
Endovascular devices and methods for exploiting intramural space
The present disclosure is directed to a device. The device may include a distal shaft defining a central lumen and an orienting element comprising at least one inflatable member. Wherein a first portion of the orienting element extending from the shaft in a first direction and a second portion of the orienting element extending from the shaft in a second direction. Further, wherein the second direction is substantially opposite the first direction. |
| US09717888B2 |
Guidewire clamp and introducer
A guidewire for medical procedures can be maintained in a coiled configuration with a clamp. Multiple clamped and coiled guidewires may be stored in a fluid-filled, storage bowl concurrently. Different clamps may have different colors to differentiate the clamps and clamped guidewires. The clamps may be markable to provide additional differentiation. The clamps can further comprise a guidewire introduction funnel and/or a guidewire torquer. |
| US09717884B2 |
Catheter
A catheter that prevents excessive concentration of stress while providing sufficient flexibility to a distal end portion of the catheter, even when the catheter is inserted and curved in patient's a blood vessel. Thus, breakage of the catheter at a radiopaque marker is prevented/reduced. The catheter includes a catheter tube and the radiopaque marker, which is disposed in the catheter tube. The radiopaque marker is fixed in the catheter so that a gap is provided between the radiopaque marker and the catheter tube in a radial direction of the catheter tube. |
| US09717882B2 |
Multi-lumen catheters and related methods of manufacture
A method of making a multi-lumen catheter may include disposing an outer surface of a mandrel against an outer surface of a first catheter; disposing a first heat shrink material around the first catheter and the mandrel; heating the first catheter and the mandrel to form a U-shaped channel along the outer surface of the first catheter; removing the first heat shrink material and the mandrel from the first catheter; placing a second catheter into the U-shaped channel; disposing a second heat shrink material around the first catheter and the second catheter such that the second catheter is retained within the U-shaped channel; and heating the first catheter and the second catheter to cause reflow between the first catheter and the second catheter to form the multi-lumen catheter. |
| US09717880B2 |
Personal airway humidification apparatus and method
A personal airway humidification apparatus includes means for generating a heated air laden with gaseous (molecular) water. The personal airway humidification apparatus further includes an accumulator coupled to the generating means for retaining a volume of the gaseous water-laden heated air prior to being delivered by natural breathing to a user and a delivery tube coupled to the accumulator. The delivery tube has a sufficiently large diameter bore to enable the user's natural breathing to draw the gaseous water-laden heated air from the accumulator and through the delivery tube. The personal airway humidification apparatus also includes a one-way valve coupled to the delivery tube for venting exhalations of the user to atmosphere and preventing the exhalations from being exhaled back into the delivery tube and an interface device by which the gaseous water-laden heated air enters the user's mouth from the delivery tube. |
| US09717877B2 |
Apparatus for supplying high-concentration hydrogen gas for living organism
An apparatus includes an electrolytic cell having an electrolytic chamber to which subject raw water is introduced, at least one membrane that separates inside and outside of the electrolytic chamber, and at least one pair of electrode plates provided in the inside and the outside of the electrolytic chamber so as to sandwich the membrane, the electrode plate in the outside of the electrolytic chamber being provided to be in contact with the membrane; a direct-current power source that applies a direct-current voltage to the pair of electrode plates; and a diluent gas supplier for diluting hydrogen gas generated from the electrode plate that is to be a cathode, wherein the apparatus blows diluent gas supplied from the diluent gas supplier to the cathode thereby to constantly maintain a hydrogen gas concentration in the vicinity of the cathode during electrolysis at lower than 18.3 vol % so that mixed gas comprising the hydrogen gas and the diluent gas and having a hydrogen gas concentration of 0.1 to 18.3 vol % is supplied to a living organism. |
| US09717876B2 |
Dual oxygen concentrator systems and methods
Described herein are various embodiments of an oxygen concentrator system that includes a home oxygen concentrator system couplable to a portable oxygen concentrator system. |
| US09717871B2 |
Patient interface device having multi-chamber adjustable cushion, and apparatus and method for adjusting same
A cushion member (12, 12′, 12″) for a patient interface device (4) that includes a main body portion (34) including a plurality of chambers (48) and a self-sealing cap portion (36) coupled to the main body portion. The cap portion covers each of the chambers and forms a plurality of membrane members (52), with each membrane member being positioned over and sealing a respective one of the chambers. The cap portion is made of a self-sealing material such that that each of the membrane members is structured to self-seal responsive to having a needle inserted through and pulled out of the membrane member. Also, an apparatus and a method for selectively adjusting the internal pressure of the chambers of such a cushion. |
| US09717868B2 |
Obesity hypventilation syndrome treatment system and method
A pressurized flow of breathable gas is delivered to the airway of a subject in accordance with a therapy regimen. The therapy regimen calls for maintenance of an average tidal volume. The therapy ensures that the subject breaths at a therapeutic breath rate. The breath rate may be determined dynamically based on breathing of the subject early on in a therapy session and/or based on a detected wakefulness of the subject. Inspiration for spontaneous and non-spontaneous breaths may be supported at different levels. The therapy regimen further maintains a beneficial positive end expiratory pressure, to reduce respiratory obstructions and/or for other purposes. |
| US09717867B2 |
Method for operating an aerosol inhalation device and aerosol inhalation device
In a first aspect, the invention relates to a method for operating an aerosol inhalation device (10), comprising the steps of transporting a certain amount of an aerosol to a desired location outside said device (10) and vibrating the transported aerosol when it has reached said desired location. In a second aspect, the invention relates to an aerosol inhalation device (10) comprising a pump (1) for flowing a certain amount of an aerosol to a desired location outside the device (10), a vibrator (2) for vibrating the transported aerosol in a vibration mode and a control configured to actuate the vibrator (2) for vibrating the flowed aerosol only when it has reached said desired location. |
| US09717866B2 |
Powder inhaler devices
An improved inhalation device is provided for facilitating inhalation by a patient of powder medicaments contained in a receptacle. The inhalation device includes a staple assembly comprising a plunger and staple that are securely and robustly coupled to one another. Embodiments of the inhalation device have a cap that prevents or reduces the amount of dust and grime entering into the device. The cap is additionally configured to prevent or reduce inadvertent and unintentional operation of the device. The body portion and first casing portion of certain embodiments of the inhalation device are sealably coupled, restricting or reducing undesirable flow pathways that have an adverse effect on the operation of the device. |
| US09717860B2 |
Needle changing apparatus
An apparatus is disclosed for storing and changing needles for connection with a medicament delivery device, comprising an inner housing, a reservoir disposed within the inner housing, and a needle holder disposed within the inner housing, for fluidly connecting a medicament container of the medicament delivery device with the reservoir. The apparatus also includes a plurality of patient needles displaceably disposed on the needle holder, and an outer housing displaceably disposed about the inner housing and providing a user interface to individually select one of the plurality of patient needles, connect the selected needle with the reservoir, expose the selected needle outside of the apparatus for injection, and store the selected needle. |
| US09717852B2 |
Cartridge holder and pen-type injector
A cartridge holder for a drug delivery device is presented having snap fastening connection means to fasten the cartridge holder to a housing of the drug delivery device, wherein the fastening connection means are provided with at least on basically rectangular window for receiving a locking element of said housing. The invention is further directed to a pen-type injector equipped with a respective snap fastening connection for the cartridge holder. |
| US09717851B2 |
Autoinjector
An autoinjector having a lower body receiving a tank containing fluid product and a piston and a needle. The autoinjector including a central body fastened to the lower body and an actuating sleeve provided with a contact end that contacts the body of the user, the actuating sleeve moveable between a projected position and an actuation position. The actuating sleeve is in a projected position prior to and after actuation of the autoinjector, an injection mechanism is provided to inject the fluid product through the needle when the needle is in an injection position in which it is inserted in the body of the user. The autoinjector includes a tank movement device to move the needle towards the injection position, the tank movement device triggering the injection mechanism only after the needle has reached its injection position. |
| US09717848B2 |
Data derived pre-bolus delivery
A medical therapy system to deliver a pre-bolus volume of medicant is disclosed. The medical therapy system includes an infusion pump that has a case containing a processor, memory, a drive mechanism, a reservoir, communication hardware and a sensor system. The infusion pump further includes a global positioning system (GPS) receiver to determine GPS coordinates of the infusion pump. The GPS receiver is coupled to the processor that executes stored program instructions to provide notification for confirmation to deliver a pre-bolus volume from the reservoir when the GPS coordinates of the infusion pump are within a specified proximity of GPS coordinates of a saved location. |
| US09717845B2 |
Geofencing for medical devices
A medical therapy system for delivering at least two therapies based on a geographic location of the medical therapy system is disclosed. The medical therapy system includes an infusion pump having a case that contains a processor, memory, a drive mechanism, a reservoir, a radio, and a sensor suite. The sensor suite includes a global positioning system (GPS) receiver to determine a location of the infusion pump. The processor receives the location of the infusion pump and executes first instructions stored in the memory. The processor executes second instructions stored in the memory only when the location of the infusion pump is within a safe zone defined around specified GPS coordinates. |
| US09717843B2 |
Packaging system for analyte sensors
A system and method are provided for packaging and sterilizing analyte sensors. The packaging system provides a structure for securing the analyte sensors in a fixed position and fixed orientation within the package. |
| US09717841B2 |
Closed-circuit device and methods for isolation, modification, and re-administration of specific constituents from a biological fluid source
The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for the isolation, modification and re-administration of a molecule or biomolecule, or a class of biomolecules, from the body fluid of a mammal via an extracorporeal closed circuit device. The device is able to capture and modify the biomolecule by the covalent or non-covalent attachment of a secondary molecule or protein, by cross-linking the captured molecule, or by altering the structure of the molecule (for example, by deglycosylation, peptide cleavage, or aggregation). The apparatus can be used to return the modified molecule or biomolecule to the mammalian subject. The device and methods may be utilized for the patient-specific diagnosis and/or treatment of a disease state which presents an associated molecule or protein in plasma or any other fluidized physiological system.The methods and apparatus may also be employed as a closed system allowing the on-line purification and/or modification of a target molecule or biomolecule from a fluid source such as a bioreactor or perfusion bioreactor. |
| US09717839B2 |
Extracorporeal circulation device
An extracorporeal blood circulator includes a control unit and a speed manipulation section. A rotation display section displays a lower limit rotation setting value of a pump motor in accordance with a command of the control unit. The lower limit rotation speed setting value is a minimum rotation speed for preventing backflow of blood inside a circulation circuit A manually adjusted speed setting request from the manipulation section controls the pump speed, except that the controller enforces the lower limit speed setting unless receiving confirmation from a manipulator. |
| US09717838B2 |
Method and system for collecting leukoreduced red blood cells
A method and system for collecting leukoreduced red blood cells employing a spinning membrane separator including a housing having an upper end region and a lower end region in an operating position with a red blood cell outlet in the upper end region of the housing and a whole blood inlet in the lower end region of the housing. The method and system provide for flowing additive solution into the whole blood inlet of the housing to prime the separator; flowing whole blood into the whole blood inlet of the housing; separating red blood cells from the whole blood; flowing separated red blood cells out of the red blood cell outlet of the housing; combining the separated red blood cells with additive solution: passing the separated red blood cells and additive solution combination through a leukoreduction filter; and collecting the filtered red blood cells and additive solution. |
| US09717834B2 |
Blood treatment systems and methods
Dialysis systems are disclosed comprising new fluid flow circuits. Systems may include blood and dialysate flow paths, where the dialysate flow path includes balancing, mixing, and/or directing circuits. Dialysate preparation may be decoupled from patient dialysis. Circuits may be defined within one or more cassettes. The fluid circuit fluid flow paths may be isolated from electrical components. A gas supply in fluid communication with the dialysate flow path and/or the dialyzer able to urge dialysate through the dialyzer and urge blood back to the patient may be included for certain emergency situations Fluid handling devices, such as pumps, valves, and mixers that can be actuated using a control fluid, may be included. Control fluid may be delivered by an external pump or other device, which may be detachable and/or generally rigid, optionally with a diaphragm dividing the device into first and second compartments. |
| US09717832B2 |
Axial flow rotor with downstream bearing wash flow
An implantable blood pump includes an impeller rotatable about a rotational axis, having a body with a bottom surface at a downstream end and a central opening centered about the axis extending at least partially through the body from the bottom surface. A projecting element, e.g., a shaft, extends from below the bottom surface into or through the opening to support the impeller. The body can be configured to drive a primary downstream blood flow along an exterior of the body to beyond a peripheral edge of the bottom surface, and to provide a secondary downstream blood flow through the opening and along the bottom surface to beyond the peripheral edge, the secondary flow improving washing of a bearing surface. |
| US09717820B2 |
Procoagulant peptides and their derivatives and uses therefor
The present invention is directed to a hemostatic or tissue sealing material having (a) a peptide having a sequence SEQ ID NO: 1 or an amino acid analog sequence thereof, and (b) a scaffold for said peptide or amino acid analogue sequence. The scaffold is preferably hemostatic, such as a natural or genetically engineered absorbable polymer, a synthetic absorbable polymer, or combinations thereof. The natural or genetically engineered absorbable polymers can be selected from the group consisting of a protein, a polysaccharide, or combinations thereof. |
| US09717819B2 |
Polyurea-based fabric glue
The present invention relates to a polyurea system, the use of such a polyurea system for sealing, linking, gluing, or covering of cellular tissue, and a dosing system having two chambers for a polyurea system such as this. The polyurea system comprises as components: A) an isocyanate-functioning prepolymer, which can be derived by reacting aliphatic isocyanates with polyoles, and B) an amino-functioning ester of aspartic acid. According to the invention, water and/or tertiary amine is added to the system, in order to increase the reacting speed of the prepolymer with the amino-functioning ester of aspartic acid while decreasing the setting time at the same time. |
| US09717817B2 |
Binary odor control system for absorbent articles
Cellulosic pulp structures integrating unreacted quantities of an inorganic peroxide and a destabilizing acid, as binary components of an odor control system, absorbent articles incorporating such structures, and various methods of forming the same, are disclosed herein. The components are adapted to react in the presence of an aqueous fluid to produce hydrogen peroxide, thereby providing an antimicrobial and odor mitigating effect. |
| US09717814B2 |
Dispensing device
A volatile material dispensing system includes a frame having a front face and a rear face. A first magnetic element is disposed on the frame. A reservoir containing a volatile material is provided. A second magnetic element is disposed on the reservoir. |
| US09717813B2 |
Electrical heating device for evaporating volatile substances with adjustable evaporation rate
An electrical heating evaporator for evaporating active substances such as perfumes and/or insecticides, in which the evaporation rate regulator includes an electrical heater resistor for which the power supplied is regulated through a potentiometer constructed on a printed circuit board. The evaporation rate can be adjusted for a wide variety of types of chemical substances, without the need of substantially modifying the design of the device. |
| US09717810B2 |
Fogging system providing atomized solution to treatment area
A system for treating an enclosed area may include a plurality of fogging devices each including a housing, a fluid reservoir, a compressor coupled to the fluid reservoir, an atomizing nozzle in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir, a first wireless transceiver, and a first processor coupled to the compressor and the wireless transceiver. A wireless communications device may include a second wireless transceiver and a second processor to identify the fogging devices within the enclosed area based upon the first and second wireless transceivers, determine respective fogging times for the fogging devices based upon a size of the enclosed area and a number of the foggers identified within the enclosed area, and initiate a treatment cycle during which, on a coordinated schedule, the first processor of each fogging device causes its associated compressor to dispense fluid into the enclosed area via the atomizing nozzle for the respective fogging time. |
| US09717809B2 |
System for storing and sanitizing complex devices
A system and apparatus for sanitizing devices with complex shapes. The system is comprised essentially of a mechanism for emitting sanitizing electromagnetic radiation within an enclosed compartment. The apparatus may be light-tight such that the radiation is contained within the apparatus. It may be configured to emit a plurality of sanitizing wavelengths. The apparatus may also be sound-tight, limiting or preventing the transmission of acoustic sounds made by the devices being sanitized. The apparatus may include a series of reflective and refractive apparatuses to alter the reflection path of the emitted electromagnetic radiation, allowing the apparatus to be used for devices with complex shapes. The enclosure may include support devices, such as dividers and support plates, that may be transparent to the electromagnetic radiation. The apparatus may include a locking mechanism. The system may include a control module including a user interface. |
| US09717804B2 |
Regenerating functional neurons for treatment of disease and injury in the nervous system
Methods for producing new neurons in the brain in vivo are provided according to aspects of the present invention which include introducing NeuroD1 into a glial cell, particularly into a reactive astrocyte or NG2 cell, thereby “converting” the reactive glial cell to a neuron. Methods of producing a neuronal phenotype in a glial cell are provided according to aspects of the present invention which include expressing exogenous NeuroD1 in the glial cell, wherein expressing exogenous NeuroD1 includes delivering an expression vector, such as a viral expression vector, including a nucleic acid encoding the exogenous NeuroD1 to the glial cell. |
| US09717802B2 |
Capping modules for designed ankyrin repeat proteins
Improved N-terminal capping modules for designed Ankyrin repeat proteins (DARPins) conferring improved thermal stability to the DARPins are described, as well as nucleic acids encoding such proteins, pharmaceutical compositions comprising such proteins and the use of such proteins in the treatment of diseases. |
| US09717801B2 |
Glycogen-based cationic polymers
The present invention relates to glycogen-based cationic polymers, to complexes of the said cationic polymers with anionic compounds, to pharmaceutical compositions comprising the said complexes, and to the use of the said complexes for delivering or transfecting the said anionic compounds to a specific pharmacological target, such as, for instance an organ, a tissue or a cell. |
| US09717798B2 |
Polymeric colorant compositions and methods of use
A composition is disclosed. The composition comprises at least one polymeric colorant having a polymer component with a colorant component covalently bound thereto, a medicament, and a liquid vehicle. The at least one colorant component does not react directly or indirectly with the medicament. Methods of using the polymeric colorants, including a method for the preparation of skin as a site for a surgical procedure and a method of treating a medical condition, are also provided. |
| US09717788B2 |
Method of inducing an immune response against HIV employing HIV immunogens, adenoviral vectors encoding said immunogens, and adjuvant
The present invention relates to, inter alia, a method of raising an immune response against a pathogen which comprises administering (i) one or more first immunogenic polypeptides derived from said pathogen; (ii) one or more adenoviral vectors comprising one or more heterologous polynucleotides encoding one or more second immunogenic polypeptides derived from said pathogen; and (iii) an adjuvant; wherein the one or more first immunogenic polypeptides, the one or more adenoviral vectors and the adjuvant are administered concomitantly. The invention also relates to vaccines, pharmaceutical compositions, kits and uses employing said polypeptides, adenoviral vectors and adjuvants. |
| US09717786B2 |
Modified RSV F proteins and methods of their use
The present invention is generally related to modified or mutated respiratory syncytial virus fusion (F) proteins and methods for making and using them, including immunogenic compositions such as vaccines for the treatment and/or prevention of RSV infection. |
| US09717785B2 |
Recombinant antigens of porcine circovirus 2 (PCV-2) for vaccine formulations, diagnostic kit and use thereof
The present invention relates to the preparation of the recombinant antigen of the viral capsid of Porcine circovirus 2 (PCV-2) and modifications thereof, upon expression in a prokaryotic system, purification in the monomer form, recovery of virus-like particles (VLPs) and their use in vaccine formulations, diagnostic kits and a system for quantifying in vaccine lots of the PCV-2 antigen by means of a capture ELISA assay. The antigens and vaccine formulations can be used in animal's immunization in programs for combatting PCV-2-associated diseases in conventional swine breeding systems, and represent alternatives to the commercially available vaccines. The ELISA kit can be used for testing the quality of commercial and/or experimental vaccines against PCV-2. |
| US09717784B2 |
Circovirus sequences associated with piglet weight loss disease (PWD)
The genome sequences and the nucleotide sequences coding for the PWD circovirus polypeptides, such as the circovirus structural and non-structural polypeptides, vectors including the sequences, and cells and animals transformed by the vectors are provided. Methods for detecting the nucleic acids or polypeptides, and kits for diagnosing infection by a PWD circovirus, also are provided. Method for selecting compounds capable of modulating the viral infection are further provided. Pharmaceutical, including vaccine, compositions for preventing and/or treating viral infections caused by PWD circovirus and the use of vectors for preventing and/or treating diseases also are provided. |
| US09717781B2 |
Methods and compositions relating to P62 for the treatment and prophylaxis of cancer
Provided herein are novel p62 compositions for the prophylaxis and treatment of cancer and related methods. The invention also provides modified p62 compositions that increase the anti-cancer activity of p62. |
| US09717780B2 |
Sheep nematode vaccine
The present invention is based upon the identification of a number of antigens derived from species of the genus Teladorsagia, which can be used to raise immune responses in animals—particularly those animals susceptible or predisposed to infection by (or with) one or more Teladorsagia species. The antigens may be exploited to provide compositions and vaccines for raising protective immune responses in animals—the protective immune responses serving to reduce, prevent, treat or eliminate Teladorsagia infections/infestations. |
| US09717778B2 |
Combination therapy
The present disclosure relates to a method for treatment or prevention of diseases have an increased level of insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I). The method comprises administration of a growth hormone (GH) variant having antagonistic activity in combination with an oligonucleotide targeted to growth hormone receptor (GHR) to a subject in need. |
| US09717777B2 |
Use of CCL1 in therapy
A method of treating a medical condition in which suppression of effector T cells is beneficial in a subject in need thereof is disclosed. The method comprising administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of a CCL1 polypeptide, thereby treating the medical condition in the subject. |
| US09717771B2 |
Sugar extract
This invention relates to novel extracts from sugar cane and sugar beet molasses and the characterization of those extracts. The extracts are enriched in hydrophobic compounds including polyphenols, in levels 5 to 10 fold higher than found in molasses itself. Methods for extracting the extract are also described, together with new uses for the extracts as food ingredients, food modifiers and therapeutic substances. |
| US09717770B2 |
Compositions and methods for managing or improving bone disorders, cartilage disorders, or both
The present disclosure provides mixtures of prenylated flavonoids, stilbenes, or both with flavans or curcuminoids or both capable of useful for promoting, managing or improving bone health, cartilage health or both, or for preventing or treating a bone disorder, cartilage disorder or both. Such a mixture of prenylated flavonoids, stilbenes, or both with flavans or curcuminoids or both can optionally be used in combination with other bone and cartilage management agents, such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, boron, vitamin D, vitamin K, glucosamine and/or chondroitin compounds, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents/analgesics, COX/LOX inhibiting agents, neuropathic pain relief agents, or the like. |
| US09717768B2 |
Bacteriophage and antibacterial composition comprising the same
The present invention relates to a bacteriophage having a specific bactericidal activity against Salmonella, a composition for the prevention or treatment of infectious diseseases comprising the bacteriophage as an active ingredient, an antibiotic comprising the bacteriophage as an active ingredient, an animal feed or drinking water comprising the bacteriophage as an active ingredient, and a sanitizer or cleaner comprising the bacteriophage as an active ingredient. The bacteriophage of the present nvention has a specific bactericidal activity against Salmonella choleraesuis, Salmonella typhimurium, Salmonella derby, Salmonella infantis, or Salmonella newport with no influences on beneficial bacteria, as well as excellent acid- and heat-resistance and desiccation tolerance. Therefore, the bacteriophage can be used for the prevention or treatment of salmonellosis or salmonella food poisoning, which is an infection disease cuased by Salmonella choleraesuis, Salmonella typhimurium, Salmonella derby, Salmonella infantis, or Salmonella newport, and also widely used in animal feeds, drinking water for livestock, sanitizers, and cleaners. |
| US09717766B2 |
Process for enhancing the viable counts of lactic acid bacteria and useful compositions thereof
The present invention disclosed herein describes (i) the growth promotional activity of natural plant based fibres on Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856; (ii) the combination of natural plant based fibres and Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856 to inhibit Gram Negative pathogenic bacteria and (iii) the production of short chain fatty acids (SCFA) by Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856 using plant based natural fibres. |
| US09717762B2 |
Compositions of cardiomyocyte subpopulations
The present invention provides the use of the antigens CD49e and/or CD49f as selection markers for enrichment, isolation, detection and/or analysis of atrial and ventricular cardiomyocytes and a method for enrichment, isolation, detection and/or analysis of these cells from a sample comprising cardiomyocytes. In addition substantially pure compositions of these cardiomyocyte subpopulations are provided. |
| US09717757B1 |
Composition and method to treat and prevent muscle cramping
A method of treating muscle cramps and muscle pain, and to relieve swelling in and around muscles after strenuous physical activity is provided, whereby an aqueous composition is applied topically to the skin overlying the affected muscles, the composition has dissolved, suspended or dispersed therein (a) an anti-inflammatory agent; (b) an agent that stimulates or promotes cell growth; and (c) an agent that enhances or stimulates the skin's immune system, wherein components (a), (b) and (c) are different. |
| US09717751B2 |
Chitin or derivatives thereof for the prevention and/or treatment of parasitoses
The subject matter of the present invention is the use of chitin or a derivative of chitin for preventing and/or treating parasitoses, and in particular cryptosporidiosis. The present invention also pertains to a composition that comprises at least one base agent chosen from among chitin or a derivative of chitin and at least one secondary agent chosen from among an agent for stimulating immunity and an antiparasite agent, as well as the use of same for preventing and/or treating parasitoses, in particular cryptosporidiosis. |
| US09717749B2 |
Production of stable non-polyadenylated RNAs
The invention relates in aspects to hybrid RNAs lacking a poly-A tail and nucleic acid vectors for expressing the RNA. The hybrid RNAs in some instances have a 3′ terminal stabilizing triple helical structure. Related methods for expressing said RNAs in vivo and in vitro are also disclosed. |
| US09717748B2 |
Compositions and methods for treating an infection
The present application relates to compounded compositions, methods of making compounded compositions, kits comprising compounded compositions, containers comprising compounded compositions, and methods of using compounded compositions. The present application also relates to anti-infective agents and methods of using anti-infective agents. For example, disclosed herein are compounded compositions comprising an anti-bacterial agent, an anti-fungal agent, and an excipient base and methods of using a compounded composition to treat or prevent a bacterial infection, a fungal infection, or both, or a suspected bacterial infection, a suspected fungal infection, or both. This abstract is intended as a scanning tool for purposes of searching in the particular art and is not intended to be limiting of the present invention. |
| US09717744B2 |
Use of 2-methylene-19-nor-(20S)-1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 to prevent secondary hyperparathyroidism or the symptoms thereof
Disclosed are methods of administering 2-methylene-19-nor-(20S)-1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 to treat and/or prevent secondary hyperparathyroidism and/or its accompanying symptoms in a subject having or at risk for developing secondary hyperparathyroidism. |
| US09717739B2 |
17-hydroxy-17-pentafluoroethyl-estra-4,9(10)-dien-11-aryl derivatives, method of production thereof and use thereof for the treatment of diseases
The invention relates to 17-hydroxy-17-pentafluoroethyl-estra-4,9(10)-dien-11-aryl derivatives of Formula I with progesterone antagonizing action and method of production thereof, use thereof for the treatment and/or prophylaxis of diseases and use thereof for the production of medicinal products for the treatment and/or prophylaxis of diseases, in particular of fibroids of the uterus (myomas, uterine leiomyoma), endometriosis, heavy menstrual bleeds, meningiomas, hormone-dependent breast cancers and complaints associated with the menopause or for fertility control and emergency contraception. |
| US09717737B2 |
Vacuolin-1 as an inhibitor of autophagy and endosomal trafficking and the use thereof for inhibiting tumor progression
Methods of treating autophagy related diseases, e.g. cancer and malaria, using novel autophagy inhibiting agents are described. |
| US09717736B2 |
Pyrido-, pyrazo- and pyrimido-pyrimidine derivatives as mTOR inhibitors
There is provided a compound of formula I: or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. There are also provided processes for the manufacture of a compound of Formula 1, and the use of a compound of Formula 1 as a medicament and in the treatment of cancer. |
| US09717735B2 |
Tricyclic lactams for use in HSPC-sparing treatments for RB-positive abnormal cellular proliferation
This invention is in the area of tricyclic lactam compounds for and methods of treating selected Rb-positive cancers and other Rb-positive abnormal cellular proliferative disorders while minimizing the deleterious effects on healthy cells, for example healthy Hematopoietic Stem Cells and Progenitor Cells (HSPCs), associated with current treatment modalities. In one aspect, treatment of select Rb-positive cancers is disclosed using specific compounds disclosed herein. In certain embodiments, the compounds described herein act as selective cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 (CDK 4/6) inhibitors when administered to subjects. |
| US09717734B2 |
Chewable lipid supplements containing caffeine for increasing alertness, focus and energy
Flavored chewable wafers containing caffeine suitable for increasing alertness and allow an individual to perform tasks in a more focused and energetic manner comprises, formulations of phospholipids, specifically identified concentrations of phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidic acid, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylcholine, glycolipids and phosphatidylserine along with inulin and other desirable active ingredients. |
| US09717733B2 |
Edible plant-derived microvesicle compositions including conjugated therapeutic agents and methods for using the same
A composition is provided that includes a microvesicle derived from an edible plant and a therapeutic agent conjugated to the microvesicle. The therapeutic agent can be chemically-linked to a plasma membrane of the microvesicle with a cross-linking agent and the edible plant can be a fruit or a vegetable. Methods for treating an inflammatory disorder or a cancer are further provided and include administering to a subject in need thereof an effective amount of a composition including a microvesicle derived from an edible plant and having a therapeutic agent conjugated to the microvesicle. |
| US09717727B2 |
Methods of treating and preventing leukemia and other cancers of the blood and bone
The present invention relates to preventing and treating leukemia and other cancers of the blood and bone, as well as disorders of the blood, by inhibiting gut-derived serotonin. The inhibition of the gut-derived serotonin is accomplished by inhibiting Tph1, an enzyme responsible for the production of gut-derived serotonin. The present invention also relates to preventing and treating leukemia and other cancers of the blood and bone, as well as disorders of the blood, by increasing the number, growth and proliferation of osteoblasts. |
| US09717722B2 |
Methods and agents for treating tyrosinase-positive albinism
Methods for treating a subject with tyrosinase-positive albinism; agents and compositions thereof for use in treating tyrosinase-positive albinism; and medicaments for treating tyrosinase-positive albinism are described herein. Such methods; agents and compositions thereof; and medicaments relate to chloroquine or rapamycin or compositions thereof and may further relate to nitisinone used in conjunction with the chloroquine or rapamycin or a composition of either of which. |
| US09717719B2 |
Treatment, prevention, and reversal of alcohol-induced liver disease
This invention relates to methods for treating, preventing, or reversing liver disease or damage produced by chronic alcohol intake by administering at least one peroxisome proliferator activated receptor (PPAR) agonist. |
| US09717718B2 |
Anti-inflammatory compounds
Compositions comprising isolated ido-BR1 are described for use in therapy or prophylaxis, including the treatment of inflammatory diseases (for example as anti-inflammatory drugs) and to reduce inflammation. Also described are methods for monitoring the quality of a Cucurbitaceae extract, to processes for producing a Cucurbitaceae extract as well as to Cucurbitaceae extracts obtainable by such processes. |
| US09717717B1 |
Methods of treating cancer through the inhibition of USP7 and immune system modulation
Methods and compounds for treating cancer by, for example, modulating immune system activity, are provided. |
| US09717711B2 |
Methods and compositions for treating Clostridium difficile associated disease
The present invention provides methods for treating and preventing the reoccurrence of C. diff infection by administering an immunoglobulin concentrate in conjunction with a low protein diet. |
| US09717708B1 |
Process for preparing ertapenem-containing lyophilized formulation
The present invention provides a process for preparing an ertapenem-containing lyophilized formulation, comprising the use of hydroxypropyl β-cyclodextrin as both a cryoprotective agent and a stabilizing agent. |
| US09717706B2 |
Chromone inhibitors of S-nitrosoglutathione reductase
The present invention is directed to inhibitors of S-nitrosoglutathione reductase (GSNOR), pharmaceutical compositions comprising such GSNOR inhibitors, and methods of making and using the same. |
| US09717702B2 |
Treatment of cancer with specific RXR agonists
A method of treating cancer is disclosed comprising administering to a patient in need of such treatment a RXR agonist at a level below the RAR activating threshold and at or above the RXR effective dose. |
| US09717701B2 |
Compositions for overcoming resistance to tramadol
Disclosed herein is a composition for oral administration of O-desmethyltramadol that is effective for overcoming resistance to tramadol in patients. |
| US09717695B2 |
Constructs for diagnosing and treating inflammatory bowel diseases and colon cancer
The present invention features, inter alia, constructs for the delivery of therapeutic and diagnostic agents to a patient. The constructs can include a nanoparticle, a targeting agent that specifically binds a targeted tissue or cell, a therapeutic moiety, and a hydrogel. The constructs can be used in the treatment and diagnosis of bowel diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and colon cancer. In one embodiment, the therapeutic agent is a nucleic acid that mediates RNA inhibition (RNAi), and the invention is directed to treatments for IBD that combine the positive aspects of such agents {e.g., siRNAs) with the safety of a biodegradable polymeric delivery system to facilitate specific targeting of colonic tissues and cells. As the constructs can be formulated for oral administration, they are well tolerated and offer advantages with regard to patient compliance. |
| US09717692B2 |
Effervescent formulations comprising dexketoprofen
The present invention relates to water-soluble formulations comprising the active agent dexketoprofen and to a process for production of said formulations. The present invention also relates to pharmaceutical formulations comprising dexketoprofen which is used in symptomatic treatment of mild to moderate pains such as musculoskeletal pains, dysmenorrhoea, toothache, post-operative pains. The formulations are characterized in being in effervescent form. |
| US09717687B2 |
Lipid membrane structure including bacterial cell component having dispersibility in non-polar solvent, and method for producing same
[Problem] To provide: a lipid membrane structure which has such a particle diameter that the lipid membrane structure can be sterilized by filtration, contains a lipid that is bound to a peptide composed of multiple arginine residues as a constituent lipid, and includes a bacterial cell component having dispersibility in a non-polar solvent; and a method for producing a lipid membrane structure which has such a particle diameter that the lipid membrane structure can be sterilized by filtration and includes a substance of interest having dispersibility in a non-polar solvent.[Solution] A lipid membrane structure which has such a particle diameter that the lipid membrane structure can be sterilized by filtration, contains a lipid that is bound to a peptide composed of multiple arginine residues as a constituent lipid, and includes a bacterial cell component having dispersibility in a non-polar solvent. |
| US09717685B2 |
Lipid-coated nucleic acid nanostructures of defined shape
The invention provides nanoparticles containing a nucleic acid nanostructure, of defined shape and size, linked to a hydrophobic moiety and coated by lipids, compositions comprising the nanoparticles, and methods of producing and methods of using the nanoparticles. |
| US09717684B2 |
Stable montelukast solution
A solution that is stable at 5° C. to 30° C. for at least 24 hours, comprising: (a) water, (b) montelukast sodium; (c) a carrier material for a fast disintegrating dosage form; and (d) a component selected from a strong base, a bicarbonate salt and mixtures thereof. The solution comprising montelukast sodium is stable under conditions that are typically encountered during certain phases of the manufacturing process of fast disintegrating dosage form that contain the montelukast sodium. The solution can be used to form fast disintegrating dosage form tablets. A method of preparing a fast disintegrating dosage form tablet including preparing such solution, and forming a tablet, and a fast disintegrating dosage form that is prepared from the montelukast sodium solution are also described. |
| US09717683B1 |
Low-temperature inhalation administration of cannabinoid entities
A cannabinoid material as active agent containing formulation comprising the active agent, an HFA propellant, and optionally a co-solvent is disclosed. Also disclosed is an inhalation method of administration of the formulation without the use of heat greater than 50° C. |
| US09717681B2 |
Formulations containing substituted imidazole derivatives
Improved formulations containing substituted imidazole derivatives of the general formula 1, formula (I) wherein Y is —CH2— or —CO—, R1 is H, halo or hydroxy, R2 is H or halo, and R3 is H or lower alkyl (e.g. C1 to C4 alkyl, preferably C1 or C2 alkyl), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, such as an acid addition salt, e.g. the hydrochloride, of a compound of the general formula (I), are in solid fast-dispersing dosage form suitable for pre-gastric absorption. |
| US09717676B2 |
Amino silicone nanoemulsion
The present invention relates to amino silicone nanoemulsions. More specifically, the present invention relates to amino silicone nanoemulsions that may be used to protect surfaces from being soiled or wetted. |
| US09717675B2 |
Acne formulation having stabilized ascorbic acid and other actives
The present invention provides for an acne formulation comprising an elastomer, dispersant, active and a drug and related methods of manufacture. |
| US09717674B1 |
Skin cleansing compositions comprising biodegradable abrasive particles
A skin cleansing composition having biodegradable abrasive particles, is provided. The abrasive particles have a mean Circularity of from about 0.10 to about 0.60 and a mean particle size as expressed by the area-equivalent diameter of about 500 μm to about 2,000 μm and a Biodegradable Rate of about 30% to about 100%. The composition has a structured surfactant phase or surfactant phase having a Yield Stress of about 1 Pa to about 100 Pa or a Yield Stress of about 0.1 Pa to about 10 Pa, respectively. |
| US09717671B2 |
Composition for improving skin, hair and coat health containing flavanones
The present invention pertains to a composition for preventing, decreasing and/or treating skin and hair/coat disorders, such as is effected by inflammatory reactions, environmental factors, ageing or cancer. In particular, the present invention relates to the use of flavanones compounds or their derivatives in nutritional, cosmetic or pharmaceutical compositions for improvement of human or pet animal skin and coat conditions. |
| US09717670B2 |
Cosmetic composition comprising mattifying fillers and a silane
The present invention relates to a composition comprising an aqueous phase, at least one mattifying filler and at least one silane corresponding to formula (I) below and/or oligomers thereof: R1Si(OR2)z(R3)x(OH)y(I) in which: •Ri is a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated C1-C22 hydrocarbon-based chain, which may be substituted with an amine group NH2 or NHR (R=C1-C20 and especially C1-C6 alkyl, C3-C40 cycloalkyl or C6-C30 aromatic); or with a hydroxyl group, a thiol group, an aryl group (more particularly benzyl), which is substituted or unsubstituted; Ri possibly being interrupted with a heteroatom (O, S or NH) or a carbonyl group (CO), •R2 and R3, which may be identical or different, represent a linear or branched alkyl group comprising from 1 to 6 carbon atoms, •y denotes an integer ranging from 0 to 3, and •z denotes an integer ranging from 0 to 3, and •x denotes an integer ranging from 0 to 2, •with z+x+y=3, The invention also relates to a cosmetic process for making up and/or caring for keratin materials comprising a step of applying a composition according to one of the preceding claims to the said materials. |
| US09717669B2 |
Topical sanitizing formulations and uses thereof
Several embodiments disclosed herein relate to formulations having antimicrobial and/or sanitizing effects, and uses of the same. In particular, the formulations and methods of using same provide, in several embodiments, an immediate and a persistent antimicrobial effect against a broad spectrum of microorganisms. |
| US09717668B2 |
Methods for treating relaxed hair
Methods and kits for treating hair or preventing damage in the relaxing of hair are disclosed herein. Hair that is damaged during a relaxing treatment with hydroxide-containing relaxing agents, can be treated with formulations containing one or more active agents. The active agent formulations can be applied simultaneously with the hair relaxing formulation, or optionally applied immediately following application of the relaxing formulation, to reduce damage and breakage. Use of the active agent formulation along with a relaxing treatment can be used to control the level of curl achieved or retained in the relaxed hair, as compared to the natural amount of curl in the untreated hair. |
| US09717666B2 |
Skin lightening composition
The invention relates to a skin lightening composition, more particularly a composition which derives synergy between an active of natural origin and an active of synthetic origin. The present inventors have judiciously combined a selective salt of a dicarboxylic acid viz. disodium fumarate along with a specific extract of a plant source e.g. Salvia officinalis rich in certain organic aromatic acids to provide for synergic skin lightening benefits. They have further found that inclusion of certain activity enhancers in the composition of the invention improves the skin lightening efficacy. |
| US09717665B2 |
Tooth desensitizing oral care compositions, devices, and methods
Desensitizing oral care composition useful for treating dentinal hypersensitivity, comprising potassium oxalate and methods of use thereof. Delivery systems including a strip of material and such oral care compositions for the treatment of dentinal hypersensitivity and methods of use thereof. |
| US09717659B2 |
Liposomes for the treatment of textile materials
Liposomes with cosmetic and/or dermopharmaceutical ingredients for the care of the skin, scalp and/or hair and their use in washing agents and/or sprays for the treatment of textile materials. |
| US09717657B2 |
Composition and method of using medicament for endodontic irrigation, stem cell preparations and tissue regeneration
A composition for endodontic irrigation is provided. The composition includes a chemical depilatory during intra-canal, and chemo-mechanical instrumentation in endodontic. The composition includes calcium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, and potassium thioglycolate or calcium thioglycolate to form an effective root canal medicament. Further, the composition may incorporate mineral oil, urea, cetearyl alcohol, D&C yellow No. 8, chromium hydroxide, theobroma cocoa seed butter, iron oxides, fragrances, and ceteareth-20 to enhance its functioning. The composition disinfects, lubricates, chelates, irrigants, dissolves, and facilitates removal of the pulpal tissue and debris. Furthermore, the composition reduces and even eliminates bacteria from micro-endodontic systems. Further, the composition of the present invention enhances eradicating pathogens along with chemo-mechanical debridement of the root canal system. |
| US09717651B2 |
Pill crushing cup with rotational locking lugs
A pill crushing apparatus for use with first and second nestable cups comprising a first cup holder which is moved linearly toward a second cup mounting surface holding a second cup. The first cup holder rotates relative to the rotationally fixed second cup. During the crushing process, the pills first may begin to crush against the linear load being applied thereto, and thereafter grind into a fine powder due to the rotational force of the first cup against the second cup. The first cup and second cup have different sidewall angles to promote pill crushing while inhibiting migration of the crush material to prevent the crushed material from reaching the open gap between the top perimeters of the nesting cups. Each cup includes a plurality of lugs having a curved profile configured to engage respective recesses on the cup holders. Each cup is fabricated through thermoforming or vacuum forming techniques. |
| US09717650B2 |
Child resistant packaging
A child resistant blister pack includes a blister layer which includes one or more blister cavities for receiving a product. A frangible retaining layer is attached to the blister layer over the blister cavities to retain the product within the blister cavities. A first backing layer is attached to the retaining layer on a side opposite the blister layer. The first backing layer has one or more lines of weakness aligned with the blister cavities. A second backing layer is attached to the first backing layer on a side opposite the retaining layer. The second backing layer has a plurality of removable sections. At least two removable sections are arranged over each line of weakness in the underlying first backing layer. |
| US09717649B2 |
Delamination resistant pharmaceutical glass containers containing active pharmaceutical ingredients
The present invention is based, at least in part, on the identification of a pharmaceutical container formed, at least in part, of a glass composition which exhibits a reduced propensity to delaminate, i.e., a reduced propensity to shed glass particulates. As a result, the presently claimed containers are particularly suited for storage of pharmaceutical compositions and, specifically, a pharmaceutical solution comprising a pharmaceutically active ingredient, for example, Prolia® (denosumab), Xgeva® (denosumab), Aranesp® (darbepoetin alfa), AMG-145, romosozumab (AMG-785), ganitumab (AMG-479), trebananib (AMG-386), brodalumab (AMG-827), and rilotumumab (AMG-102). |
| US09717647B1 |
Occupant actuated hydrotherapy jet
An occupant-actuated massager for a hydrotherapy vessel. The massager jet has an actuation point at which the occupant applies force to cause the pressurized water to flow therethrough and provide a massage via a shuttle. A valve piston is actuated to open and close based on the application of force to the actuation point. Optionally, a venturi can be used to introduce air into the water flow to provide further massage. |
| US09717642B2 |
Compression garment apparatus having baseline pressure
A compression garment apparatus including a compression garment and a pressurizer. The pressurizer intermittently pressurizes a therapeutic bladder on the compression garment and maintains a baseline pressure in the therapeutic bladder to maintain the therapeutic bladder in position with respect to a target compression zone on a body part on which the garment is worn. The baseline pressure is adjusted in response to sensed physical characteristics. |
| US09717640B1 |
Vertebral column traction device and method
A vertebral column traction device is disclosed for expanding the vertebral column of an individual. The vertebral column traction device comprises a support body having a front surface generally adjacent to a first femur and a second femur for creating a first inclined orientation and a second inclined orientation respectively. A rear surface of the support body is distanced from a first tibia and a second tibia for creating a first cantilever orientation and a second cantilever orientation respectively. A pivot area of the support body is generally adjacent to the first tibia and the second tibia for defining a first fulcrum and a second fulcrum respectively. A first lever and the second lever are defined about the first fulcrum and the second fulcrum respectively for expanding the vertebral column. |
| US09717637B2 |
Lateral support assembly
A lateral support assembly for attachment to a wheelchair includes a mounting portion for attachment to the wheelchair, a pad support portion for attachment to a pad, and a link sub-assembly including one or more links that connect the mounting portion to the pad support portion. The mounting portion includes an attachment part, a hinged part, and a sliding part. The attachment part is adapted to be affixed to the wheelchair and the hinged part is connected to the attachment part and is selectively pivotable about a first rotational axis. The pad support portion includes a pad bracket coupled to a secondary housing in which the pad bracket is selectively pivotable about a second rotational axis. The sliding part is connected to the hinged part and is selectively extendable forward. |
| US09717636B1 |
Bilaterally shifting wheelchair seat
A universal bilaterally shifting wheelchair seat assembly that uses a battery powered control unit assembly including an electrical motor to bilaterally displace a wheelchair seat a predetermined distance to help prevent pressure ulcers. The control unit assembly is connected to an actuating disk using a shaft that travels through a channel in the wheelchair seat. The actuating disk includes an actuating rod mounted to the bottom of the seat that bilaterally moves the seat upon the actuating disk's rotational movement. The wheelchair seat can include an electrical regulator that a user can adjust to modulate the frequency and speed of the seat's displacement. |
| US09717635B2 |
Absorbent medical accessory
An absorbent medical accessory ensures that the skin around a medical tube remains dry. The accessory includes an upper pad having a top side, a bottom side and a perimeter edge extending between the top and bottom sides. The bottom side is comprised of an absorbent material. The upper pad has an opening extending through the top and bottom sides. A lower pad is coupled to the upper pad and has a top surface, a bottom surface and a peripheral edge extending between the top and bottom surfaces. The lower pad is comprised of an absorbent material. The lower pad has a hole extending through the top and bottom surfaces. The hole is alignable with the opening such that a medical tube is configured for being extended through each of the opening and the hole for retaining the medical tube against each of the upper and lower pads. |
| US09717631B2 |
Eyewear having multiple ventilation states
Eyewear is disclosed that can have multiple ventilation states providing different amounts of ventilation through the eyewear. The eyewear can include a lens and a frame. In some embodiments, the lens can be movable with respect to the frame to provide the multiple ventilation states. In some embodiments, the eyewear can include a gasket that removably attaches to the frame. In some embodiments, the gasket can be movable with respect to the frame to provide the multiple ventilation states. |
| US09717629B2 |
Laser scanner apparatus and method
An apparatus for ophthalmic procedures contains a source of aiming and treatment laser beams, folded mirrors and lens arrays to cause the formation of a static pupil on a delivery mirror for observation and treatment by an operator of the apparatus. |
| US09717621B2 |
Universally adjustable cervical collar
An adjustable cervical collar is in the form of a u-shaped base with a front joined to a pair of rearwardly extending wings. Left and right chin supports are pivotally connected at their distal ends to the distal ends to of respective wings with a chin piece connected between the upper proximal ends of the chin supports. An adjustable latch is individually coupled between each wing and the lower proximal end of the associated chin supports. Preferably the latch is in the form of 1) an arcuate slot in each wing arranged around the respective pivot axis with a track formed on opposite sides of the slot and 2) a retractable locking pin carried by each chin support and movable within the respective slot, the locking pins adapted to engage the ribs in the respective track to releasably lock the chin support to the respective wing. |
| US09717618B2 |
Gastrointestinal device with associated commensal microbes
A gastrointestinal device and methods of manufacturing said gastrointestinal device are described and include a flexible tubular structure including an inner surface and an outer surface, a plurality of at least one type of commensal microbe associated with at least a portion of at least one of the inner surface and the outer surface, and a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end and the distal end forming a flow conduit through the flexible tubular structure; and at least one anchor structure including one or more gastric wall-engaging components configured to engage a wall of the gastrointestinal tract of the subject. |
| US09717610B2 |
Fiber reinforced composite stents
Polymeric composite stents reinforced with fibers for implantation into a bodily lumen are disclosed. |
| US09717609B2 |
Variable stiffness stent
A stent has one or more redundant crests for a ring. The redundant crest is located at a Y-crown for a peak-to-valley type stent pattern in one example. The stent may also have frangible bridges for connecting links. The stent's radial stiffness decreases when a redundant crest fractures and its axial and bending stiffness decreases when a frangible bridge breaks. |
| US09717606B2 |
Combined active and passive leg prosthesis system and a method for performing a movement with such a system
A lower limb prosthesis system and a method of controlling the prosthesis system to replace a missing lower extremity of an individual and perform a gait cycle are disclosed. The prosthesis system has a controller, one or more sensors, a prosthetic foot, and a movable ankle joint member coupled to the prosthetic foot. The movable ankle joint member comprises a hydraulic damping system that provides the ankle joint member damping resistance. The controller varies the damping resistance by providing volumetric flow control to the hydraulic damping system based on sensor data. In one embodiment, the hydraulic damping system comprises a hydraulic piston cylinder assembly, hydraulic fluid, and a valve to regulate the fluid. In one embodiment, the controller alters the damping resistance by modulating the valve to vary the hydraulic fluid flow within the hydraulic piston cylinder assembly of the movable ankle joint member based on sensor data. |
| US09717605B2 |
Spinal implant device
A spinal fusion device that is expandable. The device features a top and bottom surface for engaging adjacent vertebrae, a hollow center for stacking of bone or bone growth material, and a slidable mechanism with grooves for expanding or unexpanding the device. |
| US09717604B2 |
Spinal implant apparatus and methods
A method of inserting and positioning an intervertebral spacer is provided. The spacer includes a longitudinal axis, an on-axis interface coincident with or parallel to the longitudinal axis, and an off-axis interface angled to the longitudinal axis. The spacer's front end may be curved. The method may include inserting the spacer into the disc space utilizing a tool to engage an on-axis interface and then to engage one or more of the off-axis interfaces, which may be used for further modification of the spacer. The tool is moved substantially along a single insertion direction, which may be substantially parallel to a posterior-anterior axis of the disc space. The method may result in the longitudinal axis of the spacer being perpendicular to the insertion direction, or substantially parallel to a medial-lateral axis of the disc space. The spacer may also be positioned in an anterior aspect of the disc space. |
| US09717599B1 |
Method and apparatus for wrist arthroplasty
A radiocarpal wrist joint replacement includes a radial member configured to be affixed to a portion of an end of the radial bone proximal to the wrist including a fixture to be affixed over a longitudinal aspect of the radial bone and a radial resurfacing plate having a substantially concave surface configured to be located at the end of the radial bone. A carpal capitate bone insert configured to be inserted and affixed into the carpal capitate bone. A bulbous component includes a first convex head and a second convex head, substantially opposite each other and connected by a neck defining an annular groove between the first convex head and the second convex head. The carpal capitate bone insert is configured to be flexibly coupled to the first convex head of the bulbous component. The radial resurfacing plate of the radial member with the concave surface is configured to be operably coupled to the second convex head of the bulbous component so as to allow radial freedom of motion in the joint replacement. |
| US09717598B2 |
Prosthetic device for knee joint and methods of implanting and removing same
A prosthetic device for a knee joint includes a body portion and a first keel. The body portion attaches to a bone of a knee joint. The body portion can have a bearing surface configured to replace at least a portion of the bone and an implantation surface configured to face the bone upon implantation. The first keel can be configured to be inserted into a corresponding first keel void formed in the bone. The first feel can be configured to project outwardly from the implantation surface by an amount sufficient to inhibit movement of the body portion relative to the bone in both medial and lateral directions upon insertion into the first keel void. The first keel can extend along a longitudinal direction of the body portion and is offset from a longitudinal centerline of the body portion. Methods of implanting and removing the prosthetic device are also provided. |
| US09717597B2 |
Femoral component for an implantable hip prosthesis
An orthopedic prosthesis for use in a hip replacement surgery includes an implantable stem component. The implantable stem component includes a core and a shell extending over the core. The shell includes a polymeric material and is configured to receive a femoral head component. Metal foam may extend over a portion of the shell. |
| US09717593B2 |
Leaflet suturing to commissure points for prosthetic heart valve
A collapsible prosthetic heart valve includes a collapsible and expandable stent and a collapsible and expandable valve assembly. The stent has a proximal end and a distal end. A plurality of commissure points is disposed on the stent. The valve assembly is disposed within the stent and includes a plurality of leaflets. Each leaflet has a free edge. An end portion of the free edge of each leaflet is folded and sutured to a corresponding one of the plurality of the commissure points. |
| US09717590B2 |
Adjustable length ossicular prosthesis with low profile resilient joint
An ossicular prosthesis is adjustable in length and temporarily and resiliently adjustable in angular orientation. The prosthesis includes a head for contacting a tympanic membrane, and a resilient sleeve is mounted within the head. An elongate shaft extends through the sleeve, and includes a distal end adapted to engage a footplate or stapes. The sleeve forms a resilient joint that allows the shaft to undergo an angular motion relative to the sleeve when subject to a non-axial force, and then subsequently return to its original position after the force is removed. The sleeve may also be longitudinally displaceable within the head of the prosthesis such that the shaft can undergo a damped linear motion. Also as a result of the arrangement of the sleeve, the prosthesis is adjustable to a very short length. |
| US09717588B2 |
Scleral prosthesis for treating presbyopia and other eye disorders and related devices and methods
A scleral prosthesis includes an elongated body configured to be implanted into scleral tissue of an eye. The elongated body includes (i) opposing first and second free ends and (ii) multiple first portions that form the first end of the body and part of a remainder of the body between the first and second ends. The first and second ends are wider than the remainder of the body. The first portions are separated by empty space such that the first portions meet at a point between the first and second ends and are not connected to each other between that point and the first end. The first end projects beyond one or more sides of the remainder of the body and angles back towards the second end. The second end projects beyond the one or more sides of the remainder of the body and angles back towards the first end. |
| US09717587B2 |
Multiple implant constructions and fixation methods associated therewith
Using the simplified placement system and method for a tissue graft anchor of the present invention, a surgeon may introduce one or more sutures into a hole in a boney tissue, apply a precise amount of tension to the sutures to advance a soft tissue graft to a desired location, and then advance the anchor into the bone, preferably while maintaining the requisite pre-determined suture tension and without introducing spin to the suture. Particularly preferred embodiments of the present invention relate to multi-anchor constructs. Multi-anchor constructs of the present invention may employ threaded implants exclusively, push-in implants exclusively, or a combination of threaded and push-in implants. |
| US09717586B2 |
Adjustable and fixed assembled bone-tendon-bone graft
The present invention has multiple aspects relating to a bone-tendon-bone graft and components thereof. Embodiments of the present invention comprise an intermediate bone block that is used to adjustably secure soft tissue (e.g., tendon) in a patient. The present invention further relates to an assembled bone-tendon-bone graft suitable for implantation in humans comprising the intermediate bone block and a length of soft tissue. In a preferred embodiment, a bone-tendon-bone graft comprises a length of soft tissue (e.g., tendon) extending from a first assembled bone block to a second bone block and then doubles back to said first assembled bone block. Depending upon the embodiment, the second bone block fixedly or slideably attaches to the length of soft tissue and facilitates it doubling back to the first assembled bone block. |
| US09717583B2 |
Sensors, cannulas, collars and coated surgical mesh, and corresponding systems and methods
Disclosed herein are medical products with a layer of dehydrated modified basement membrane preparation formed thereon. The basement membrane has been modified before dehydration of remove low molecular weight components. Methods of making and using the products also are disclosed. |
| US09717582B2 |
Adjustable pessary device and method
Various embodiments of an adjustable pessary device are provided. The device can include an elastic ribbon or band, such as Nitinol, encapsulated in a soft or flexible structure, such as a rubber shell. In addition to providing a conforming, comfortable shape, the rubber layer can have additional structures to interface and fit with the anatomical structures within the vagina. |
| US09717571B2 |
Dental abutment system
A dental implant screw for holding an abutment on a dental implant includes a head and a shaft. A proximal end of the shaft is coupled to the head. The shaft includes a threaded section, an outwardly tapered section leading into a recessed section, and a stop section directly between the outwardly tapered section and the recessed section. The recessed section is directly between the head and the stop section. The threaded section is directly adjacent a distal end of the shaft and is configured to engage threads of an internally threaded bore in the dental implant to hold the abutment on the dental implant. |
| US09717570B2 |
Scan body for a dental impression
The scan body for a dental impression includes a hollow member having a mounting recess configured for mounting onto a head portion of an impression coping positioned in a dental impression. The mounting recess can have an internal threaded bore for receiving a fastener to secure the scan body onto the impression coping. The scan body can have an exterior peripheral wall extending between opposing first and second ends. The peripheral wall has a first flat surface and a second flat surface. The first flat surface and the second flat surface have different dimensions. |
| US09717567B1 |
Tear-resistant dental dams
A tear-resistant dental dam is provided. The tear-resistant dental dam includes a first thermoplastic elastomeric sheet and a second thermoplastic elastomeric sheet disposed on the first thermoplastic elastomeric sheet. The first and second thermoplastic elastomeric sheets have a grid pattern of weld joint regions configured to couple together the first and second thermoplastic elastomeric sheets. The grid pattern of weld joint regions define a plurality of unwelded regions of the first and second thermoplastic elastomeric sheets. |
| US09717559B2 |
Catheter with adjustable arcuate distal section
A catheter includes an elongated body, a distal assembly with a shape-memory member defining a generally circular form, and a control handle adapted to actuate a deflection puller wire for deflecting a portion of the elongated body, and a contraction wire for contracting the generally circular form. The generally circular form which carries at least one ring electrode has an off-edge configuration relative to the elongated body such that a longitudinal axis of the elongated body does not intersect the circumference of the circular form and the generally circular form spirals about the longitudinal axis of the elongated body. Moreover, the circular form can have an on-axis configuration such that the longitudinal axis of the elongated body is axially aligned with a central longitudinal axis of the circular form, or an off-axis configuration such that these axes are axially offset from each other. In a more detailed embodiment, the catheter has a distal assembly with a helical form or a crescent form carrying a plurality of irrigated ablation ring electrodes and a plurality of smaller ring electrodes adapted for impedance recording or PV potential recording. A support member with shape memory extends through the distal assembly to provide the helical or crescent form. The support member has a varying stiffness along its length, for example, a decreasing stiffness toward a distal end of the support member. The support member can also be hollow so that it can receive a mandrel whose stiffness is greater than that of the support member. |
| US09717556B2 |
Collet for an endoscopic needle knife
An endoscopic needle knife may include a collet coupled to a distal end of a tubular member of the needle knife. A cutting wire may be disposed within a cutting wire lumen of the tubular member and a central lumen of the collet. An inner surface of the collet body may create a frictional force between the cutting wire and the inner surface so that the cutting wire is resistant to longitudinal movement relative to the tubular member caused by external forces. The frictional force may also be less than a longitudinal force exerted on the cutting wire by a handle assembly or other control mechanism that is used to longitudinally move the cutting wire within the tubular member and the collet. |
| US09717552B2 |
Electrosurgical generator
This invention relates to high-frequency ablation of tissue in the body using a cooled high-frequency electrode connected to a high frequency generator including a computer graphic control system and an automatic controller for control the signal output from the generator, and adapted to display on a real time graphic display a measured parameter related to the ablation process and visually monitor the variation of the parameter of the signal output that is controlled by the controller during the ablation process. In one example, one or more measured parameters are displayed simultaneously to visually interpret the relation of their variation and values. In one example, the displayed one or more parameters can be taken from the list of measured voltage, current, power, impedance, electrode temperature, and tissue temperature related to the ablation process. The graphic display gives the clinician an instantaneous and intuitive feeling for the dynamics and stability of the ablation process for safety and control. This invention relates to monitoring and controlling multiple ground pads to optimally carry return currents during high-frequency tissue ablation, and to prevent of ground-pad skin burns. This invention relates to the use of ultrasound imaging intraoperatively during a tissue ablation procedure. This invention relates to the use of nerve stimulation and blocking during a tissue ablation procedure. |
| US09717549B2 |
Surgical forceps
A forceps includes an end effector assembly having first and second jaw members movable between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping tissue therebetween. A knife assembly having a cutting blade disposed at a distal end thereof is also provided. The knife assembly is translatable relative to the end effector assembly between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein the cutting blade extends between the jaw members to cut tissue grasped therebetween. The knife assembly includes a proximal component and a first distal component that includes the cutting blade. The proximal and first distal components are removably coupled to one another to facilitate replacement of the first distal component while the end effector assembly remains in a substantially assembled condition, i.e., without requiring substantial disassembly of the end effector assembly. |
| US09717548B2 |
Electrode for use in a bipolar electrosurgical instrument
A end-effector assembly includes opposing first and second jaw assemblies, at least one of the first and second assemblies movable relative to the other from a first position wherein the jaw assemblies are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to at least a second position closer to one another wherein the jaw assemblies cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween. The first jaw assembly includes a first housing and a first electrically-conductive tissue-engaging structure associated with at least a portion of the first housing. The second jaw assembly includes a second housing and a second electrically-conductive tissue-engaging structure associated with at least a portion of the second housing. The end-effector assembly includes a dissector electrode coupled along at least a portion of a lateral side portion of either one of the first housing or the second housing. The dissector electrode is electrically-isolated from the first and second electrically-conductive tissue-engaging structures. |
| US09717546B2 |
Cryotherapy device and method for the treatment of cervical precancerous lesions
A device for providing a cryotherapy ablation treatment includes a piping assembly and a snow horn adapted to create a spray of snow from a pressurized source of a low-temperature liquid, a tubular applicator for collecting a mass of snow at a prescribed density that is sufficient to allow the mass to serve as the needed, low temperature, thermal reservoir for the device after the applicator's distal end has been disconnected from the snow horn end so that it can to be used during the treatment process, and an applicator tip adapted to allow it to connect to the applicator's distal end and be used to treat those specific locations which are to receive this treatment. |
| US09717541B2 |
Lamina implants and methods for spinal decompression
Lamina plates can include various features that allow a surgeon to couple the plate to a vertebra, such as a plurality of receiving holes for receiving a spinal fixation element. The plate can be shaped and the receiving holes positioned such that spinal fixation elements can be installed with reduced exposure of the spine and along a trajectory that enhances purchase with bone. The lamina plate can include one or more features for coupling at least one receiver head to the plate for receiving a spinal stabilization element. Since the receiver head can be coupled to the plate after the plate is implanted, it does not restrict the range of angles or trajectories at which the spinal fixation elements can be installed. |
| US09717539B2 |
Implants, systems, and methods for fusing a sacroiliac joint
A sacroiliac joint fusion system including a joint implant, an anchor element and a delivery tool including an implant arm, an anchor arm, and a positioning arm coupling the implant arm and the anchor arm. The implant arm includes an implant shaft extending between a proximal end and a distal end of the implant arm. The anchor arm including an anchor shaft extending between a proximal end and a distal end of the anchor arm. The positioning arm coupled with the implant arm at a first end and coupled with the anchor arm at a second end. |
| US09717533B2 |
Bone anchor closure pivot-splay control flange form guide and advancement structure
Open implant closure structures include a helically wound guide and advancement flange form having pivot-splay accommodating and splay control surfaces with opposing load flanks in initial non-parallel relation. |
| US09717527B2 |
External fixator system
An external fixator system comprising at least two fixation plates which are arranged at a distance to each another, at least one adjustable length strut having a first end region and a second end region which are in connection with the fixation plates and at least one actuation unit to adjust the length of the strut in order to adjust the distance and/or orientation between the fixation plates. The actuation unit is in a fixed connection with at least one of the fixation plates as well as with at least one of the end regions of the respective strut in order to connect the strut with the fixation plate. The actuation unit comprises a feedback unit which provides the user with a feedback concerning the degree of the actuation. |
| US09717526B2 |
Multiple reservoir drug delivery device and methods
Devices and methods are provided for drug delivery. The device may include a housing configured for intraluminal deployment into a human or animal subject and first and second reservoirs within the housing, each reservoir having an actuation end, an opposed release end, and a plug moveable from the actuation end toward the release end. First and second drug formulations may be contained in the first and second reservoirs, respectively. The device may also include one or more actuation systems configured to drive the first and second plugs so as to drive the first and second drug formulations from the first and second reservoirs. The housing may include a porous membrane sidewall in fluid communication with the release ends of the first and second reservoirs, the porous membrane sidewall being configured to distribute the first and second drug formulations driven from the first and second reservoirs. |
| US09717524B2 |
Vaginal cuff closure tool and method
An apparatus includes a hollow sleeve member with an open interior section and a sleeve proximal and a sleeve distal end. Two or more probes are disposed within the open interior section and extending beyond the sleeve distal end when in a deployed position. Distal ends of the probes have a lateral space between each other. One or more tissue manipulators are disposed at the distal end of each of the at least two probes. The hollow sleeve member and the two or more probes move axially relative to each other to reduce the lateral space. A method of closing a vaginal cuff of a vaginal canal is also provided. |
| US09717523B2 |
Pericardiocentesis needle component
Disclosed is a pericardiocentesis needle component (10), comprising a guide wire (13) and a puncture needle (12). The guide wire (13) extends into and through the puncture needle (12), and the guide wire (13) comprises a bent section (32) at the distal end and a straight section at the proximal end. The bent section (32) at the distal end is formed by bending the guide wire (13), and the end of the bent section is a pointed-shape structure. The guide wire (13) is made of a highly elastic material. The pointed end rotates at least 90 degrees within a range of no more than 3 mm starting from the pointed end at the bent section (32) of the guide wire. The pericardiocentesis needle component (10) of the present invention is less likely to damage a heart during a pericardiocentesis procedure. |
| US09717522B2 |
Multi-functional surgical access system
A surgical access system comprises a wound retractor comprising an outer anchor, an inner anchor, and a flexible, tubular sheath extending therebetween. Embodiments of the outer anchor comprise an outer ring rotatable around an annular axis thereof, thereby rolling the sheath therearound when retracting an incision or opening in a body wall. The sheath comprises a plurality of fibers or strands that improve the abrasion and puncture resistance thereof. Consequently, the surgical access system is useful in procedures in which damage to the sheath is likely, for example, orthopedic hip replacement, and spinal procedures. In some embodiments, the sheath tapers from the outer ring to the inner ring. |
| US09717520B2 |
Material removal device and method of use
An atherectomy catheter having an inner drive shaft which rotates a distal rotary tissue borer with a helical cutting surface which enables the catheter to cut through and cross a CTO. Additionally, the atherectomy catheter has a distal cutting element rotated by an outer drive shaft configured to cut material from the wall of a vessel at a treatment site as the catheter is pushed distally through the treatment site. The atherectomy catheter includes a collection chamber positioned proximally of the cutting element and rotary tissue borer. The atherectomy catheter directs material cut from the treatment site into the collection chamber, breaks down larger portions of material that may block or clog the collection chamber and transports the material collected from the treatment site to a proximal opening in the atherectomy catheter. |
| US09717517B2 |
Wrist assembly for articulating laparoscopic surgical instruments
An articulating laparoscopic instrument including a handle, an outer shaft, an end effector, and a wrist assembly. The wrist assembly connects the end effector to the shaft and includes torque and articulation mechanisms. The torque mechanism includes a plurality of links disposed over the rod and connected with one another in a pivotable yet rotationally locked fashion. The articulation mechanism includes a plurality of articulation member disposed over the rod to collectively define a deflection section. The links freely rotate relative to the articulation members, with the rod and links collectively bending in response to a change in shape of the deflection section. |
| US09717516B2 |
Endoscope treatment tool
An endoscope treatment tool includes a sheath; a support part; a pair of forceps members that are arranged in front of the sheath and are supported so as to be relatively rotatable around a rotation shaft provided at the support part; a linear member that is inserted through the sheath so as to be capable of advancing into and retracting from the sheath, brings opposed surfaces, which are respectively provided closer to distal end sides of the pair of forceps members than the rotation shaft, closer to each other as the linear member is separated from the rotation shaft, and separates the pair of opposed surfaces from each other as the linear member approaches the rotation shaft; an elastic member that is supported by the linear member or the support part; and a locking portion that is provided on the linear member or the forceps members. |
| US09717512B2 |
Programmable femoral pin guide
A guide for use prior to, or concurrently with, resecting a portion of a patient's bone includes a body, an anterior adjustment member, at least one posterior adjustment foot, at least one adjustable condylar alignment pin, an adjustable anterior arm, and means to direct guide pins into the femur. The body has multiple apertures configured to accept pins. The anterior adjustment member is coupled to the body and moves toward/away from the femur and contacts an anterior portion of the femur. The posterior adjustment foot is coupled to the body and moves toward/away from the femur and contacts a posterior portion of the femur. The anterior arm is coupled to the anterior adjustment member and is configured to contact the femur proximal of the anterior adjustment member. The rotation arm is coupled to the body and provides guides to drill into the femur. |
| US09717510B2 |
Patient-specific numerically controlled instrument
A method for preparing a bone of a joint of a patient includes mounting a patient-specific reference guide on a bone of a joint of a patient. A connecting portion of the reference guide is coupled to a miniaturized numerically controlled instrument having a housing including a controller, a processor and a tool driver. The patient-specific reference guide has a three-dimensional inner surface preoperatively configured to mirror and mate with a corresponding surface of a bone of a joint of a patient in only one position. The patient-specific reference guide is configured to automatically register the numerically controlled instrument to the patient's bone portion intraoperatively. The cutting tool is guided by the controlled with signals from the processor along a patient-specific tool path determined during the preoperative plan for preparing a portion of the bone. |
| US09717509B2 |
Patient-specific total hip arthroplasty
Disclosed herein are systems and methods for performing total hip arthroplasty with patient-specific guides. Pre-operative images of a pelvic region of a patient are taken in order to predefine the structure of the guides and corresponding implants. From the obtained image data an insertional vector for implanting an acetabular implant or component into an acetabulum of the patient is determined, wherein the insertional vector is coaxial with a polar axis of the acetabular component. Also from the obtained image data, a superior surface of the guides and implants can be shaped to match the acetabulum of the patient. A nub portion extending outwardly from the superior surface of the guides and implants is shaped to substantially match the shape of a fovea of the acetabulum. A guide portion of the guides forming a slot has a longitudinal axis coaxial with the determined insertional vector of a corresponding acetabular component. |
| US09717501B2 |
Methods and systems for occluding vessels during cardiac ablation including optional electroanatomical guidance
A method is provided for ablating a portion of the myocardium. The method includes inserting an occlusion catheter into a vessel on a heart, occluding the vessel using the occlusion catheter, inserting an ablation catheter into a chamber of the heart, positioning the ablation catheter against the myocardium, and ablating a portion of the myocardium while the vessel is occluded. The system includes an occlusion catheter having a catheter body including a tubular member having a distal portion and a bend located in the distal portion, a balloon located proximal of the bend and configured to contact an inner surface of the CS when positioned therewithin, a plurality of marker bands positioned on the catheter body, and a plurality of electrodes positioned on the catheter body. One or more electrodes or coils can be used as a reference for an electroanatomical system and can be disposed on the occlusion catheter. |
| US09717495B1 |
Devices and methods for surgical suturing
An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An illustrative apparatus for tissue suturing includes a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis, a reciprocating needle drive, and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle drive to rotate the needle. A method for suturing tissue is provided that includes placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span at least one tissue segment, activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the at least one tissue segment, and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the at least one tissue segment forming a stitch. |
| US09717493B1 |
Devices and methods for surgical suturing
An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An illustrative apparatus for tissue suturing includes a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis, a reciprocating needle drive, and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle drive to rotate the needle. A method for suturing tissue is provided that includes placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span at least one tissue segment, activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the at least one tissue segment, and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the at least one tissue segment forming a stitch. |
| US09717492B2 |
Anchor driver with suture clutch
A suture anchor driver has an elongated shaft, a handle at a proximal end of the shaft an anchor engagement at a distal end of the shaft and a clutch between the handle and the shaft. The clutch includes a slot for frictionally engaging a suture an engagement with the shaft and an engagement with the handle. The engagement with the shaft and the engagement with the handle are located with respect to one another such that driving torque applied to the handle urges open the slot to release its frictional engagement of the suture. |
| US09717491B2 |
Method and apparatus for coupling soft tissue to bone
A method and apparatus for securing a suture to bone can include grasping a first suture portion with a grasping member on a positioning tool. The first suture portion can be located into a first cannulation defined in the positioning tool. A cutting member can be advanced through a second cannulation defined on the positioning tool and out through a distal opening defined on the positioning tool. A first bone hole can be cut into the bone with the cutting member. A flexible member advancing tool can be advanced through the first cannulation. The first suture portion can be urged out of the distal opening and into the first bone hole. |
| US09717489B2 |
Surgical retractor
A retractor (10) for use in a surgical intervention in the area of an eye socket is described. The retractor (10) comprises two planar retraction elements (26, 28), which are movable relative to each other between an insertion position with a first surface coverage and a retraction position with a second surface coverage AI, which is smaller than the first surface coverage. A spring element (20) provides pretensioning, which presses the retraction elements (26, 28) into the retraction position. |
| US09717488B2 |
Devices and systems for inverting and closing the left atrial appendage
Devices, systems, and methods for inverting and closing the left atrial appendage. In at least one embodiment of a method for closing a left atrial appendage of the present disclosure, the method comprises the steps of inverting a distal portion of a left atrial appendage, and constraining the inverted distal portion of the left atrial appendage using a device configured to fit within an interior of the left atrial appendage. |
| US09717485B1 |
Ergonomic multi-functional handle for use with a medical instrument
A multi-functional handle manipulates a medical instrument and includes a body capable of being gripped by a hand of a user and further capable of being in communication with the medical instrument. In non-limiting exemplary embodiments, the handle may include one or more of a first trigger assembly, a second trigger assembly and a third trigger assembly. The body may also include a first portion and a second portion coupled thereto such that the second portion is displaced relative to the first portion. At least one of the first portion, second portion and first trigger assembly is capable of manipulating the medical instrument. Non-limiting exemplary embodiments also include one or more of a primary digit-receiving member, a secondary digit-receiving member, and a tertiary digit-supporting member for facilitating ergonomic operation of the handle. |
| US09717482B2 |
Access chamber and markers for biopsy device
A marker deployment tool may comprise a marker cannula having a lateral deployment aperture, a push rod slidably disposed within the marker cannula and a scalloped tip coupled to the distal end of the marker cannula. The scalloped tip may have a push rod recess configured to receive a portion of the distal end of the push rod such that the push rod does not appreciably extend out of the lateral deployment aperture when the push rod is actuated distally. The marker deployment tool may further comprise a magnet at or near the distal end. This magnet may be used in combination with a magnet or plurality of magnets disposed about an access chamber in a tissue sample holder to assist the user in aligning the marker deployment tool. The access chamber in the tissue sample holder may also include a valve, two valves, or a removable plug. |
| US09717479B2 |
Passive data transmission
Data is communicated from an implanted section to an external location. The implanted section includes a transducer such as a piezoelectric element with an ultrasound reflecting surface that moves in response to an applied driving signal. A sensor generates an output signal that depends on a sensed parameter, and a control circuit drives the transducer based on the sensor's output. The transducer's response to the driving signal is repeatable such that the value of the output signal can be determined by measuring the variations in the velocity of the surface using externally applied Doppler ultrasound, and computing the value of the sensor's output from the measured variations in velocity. |
| US09717474B2 |
Image processing apparatus, ultrasound diagnosis apparatus, and image processing method
An image processing apparatus of an embodiment includes a combined image generator and a controller. The combined image generator projects, on three-dimensional data indicating three-dimensional heart function information obtained from a first volume data group obtained by imaging the heart of a subject, a three-dimensional shape of blood vessels nourishing a cardiac muscle included in second volume data obtained by imaging the heart, thereby producing three-dimensional combined data, and produces combined image data in which the three-dimensional combined data is developed on a surface. The controller causes a display unit to display the combined image data. |
| US09717473B2 |
Method and apparatus for detecting a dipole position marker
An apparatus, method and system for detecting a position within a body are provided. A dipole that is free to rotate or oscillate within a capsule is inserted at a target location within the body. The dipole can be either electric or magnetic, and the dipole rotates or oscillates within the capsule when an alternating or rotating electric or magnetic field is applied in the vicinity of the dipole. Ultrasound energy is impinged upon the target location and a position of the dipole is determined based on detected ultrasound reflections. |
| US09717472B2 |
Combination sensor guidewire and methods of use
The present invention provides for an improved combination sensor tip that includes an ultrasound transducer and a pressure sensor both disposed at or in close proximity to the distal end of the combination sensor tip. The present invention also provides for an improved connector to couple a guide wire to a physiology monitor that reduces torsional resistance when maneuvering the guide wire. |
| US09717471B2 |
Method and apparatus for multiple-wave doppler velocity meter
A method and system for determining a velocity of a moving object such as a body or a stream. The object is irradiated in a non-collinear configuration with multiple ultrasound waves overlapping in a region-of-interest (ROI) of the object. An response wave, resulting from the non-linear interaction among the incident waves and the object, is detected and the frequency variations of the response wave are determined. Data representing a Doppler-shift of this frequency is further determined and processed to calculate the velocity of the moving object. |
| US09717465B2 |
Vision examination system with improved visually evoked potential waveforms
A method and system for extracting important signal information is disclosed. The method examines a group of signals obtained from testing of a patient's nervous system and finds a signal area of interest. Once a cluster of signals that all have the area of interest is found—the system concludes that the area of interest is located and validated. Signals that are not within the cluster are rejected and the signals within the cluster are signal-averaged to yield a signal-averaged waveform. The signal averaged waveform represents the results of the test. |
| US09717457B2 |
Sensor, system and method for measuring and tracking impacts sustained by wearer
In an aspect, an accessory for an activity is provided, and includes an accessory housing, an impact detection device and a secondary module. The impact detection device includes at least one impact sensor selected from the group of sensors comprising an accelerometer and a gyroscope. The secondary module includes at least a battery configured for powering both the impact detection device and the secondary module. The impact detection device and secondary module together further include a microcontroller and a memory. The impact detection device is removably connectable to the secondary module and is connectable to another secondary module in another protective accessory. |
| US09717452B2 |
Handheld medical diagnostic devices with lancing speed control
A method of controlling lancing speed of a lancing structure of a portable handheld medical diagnostic device includes providing an elongated lancet structure having a skin piercing end and a blood transport portion adjacent the skin piercing end. The skin piercing end when displaced makes an incision at a skin site to produce an amount of bodily fluid from the skin site and in which the blood transport portion transports the amount of bodily fluid away from the skin site for use by a measurement system in making a physiological measurement. A spring-driven motor assembly is operatively connected to the lancet structure. The spring-driven motor assembly displaces the lancet structure toward the skin site to make the incision for producing the amount of bodily fluid and retracts the lancet structure to carry the amount of bodily fluid away from the skin cite. A speed control mechanism is engaged with the spring-driven motor assembly as the spring-driven motor assembly retracts the lancet structure thereby decelerating the lancet structure as the lancet structure is retracted away from the skin site. |
| US09717451B2 |
Device for withdrawing or administering a substance and method of manufacturing a device
A device includes a plurality of skin penetrating devices for delivering or withdrawing a substance through the skin of a patient. The device has a support formed with a top and bottom end and a plurality of channels extending axially through the support. A plurality of the skin penetrating members is positioned in the channels with a tip extending from the bottom end of the support. A coupling member is attached to the support for coupling with a fluid supply and directing the fluid to the skin penetrating members. The skin penetrating members have a length of about 100 microns to about 2000 microns and are about 30 to 50 gauge. |
| US09717448B2 |
Continuous transdermal monitoring system and method
Various embodiments of methods and systems for continuous transdermal monitoring (“CTM”) are disclosed. One exemplary embodiment of a continuous transdermal monitoring system comprises a sensor package. The sensor package may include a pulse oximetry sensor having a plurality of light detectors arranged as an array. One exemplary method for continuous transdermal monitoring begins by positioning a pulse oximetry sensor system, similar to the system described immediately above, adjacent to a target tissue segment. Then, the method continues by detecting a light reflected by the target tissue segment. Then, the method continues by transmitting a pulse oximetry reading(s), based at least in part on the light reflected by the target tissue segment, of the target tissue segment. Then, the method continues by analyzing the pulse oximetry reading(s). Then, the method continues by assessing the accuracy of the pulse oximetry reading from the first light detector relative to the pulse oximetry reading from the second light detector. |
| US09717446B2 |
Non-invasive measurement of blood oxygen saturation
A method for non-invasive determination of oxygen saturation of blood within a deep vascular structure of a human or animal patient comprising locating on skin of the patient in a vicinity of the deep vascular structure of interest emitter and receiver elements of a light oximeter device, wherein optimal location of said elements is achieved through matching of a plethysmography trace obtained from the oximeter device to known plethysmography characteristics of the deep vascular structure of interest, wherein the emitter element emits light at wavelengths of from about 1045 nm to about 1055 nm and from about 1085 nm to about 1095 nm, and wherein oxygen saturation is determined from a ratio of light absorbed at these two wavelengths by haemoglobin in blood within the vascular structure of interest. |
| US09717444B2 |
Optical polarization shift measuring system
A non-invasive device for measuring concentration levels of optically active substances, such as glucose, by determination of polarization plane turn angle in the infrared spectrum. Instant embodiments, measuring optical polarization shift, include a narrow-band optical source having a first linear polarizer; substantially illuminated by the source, a sample stage capable of temporarily immobilizing a sample; proximate to the sample stage and within a predetermined angular range with respect to the source illumination of the sample, a narrow-band optical detector capable of detecting polarization angles from the illuminated sample; and in conjunction with the source and the detector, a linear polarization angle comparator for comparing a polarization of the source with a polarization maxima region measured by the detector. |
| US09717439B2 |
Patient data display
The temporal correlation between a bioelectrical brain signal of a patient and patient motion data, such as a signal indicative of patient motion or a patient posture indicator, is displayed by a display device. In some examples, the patient posture indicator comprises a graphical representation of at least a portion of a body of the patient. In some examples, the temporal correlation between a bioelectrical brain signal, a signal indicative of patient motion, and a signal indicative of cardiac activity of the patient is displayed by the display device. |
| US09717437B2 |
Atrial arrhythmia detection during intermittent instances of ventricular pacing in a cardiac medical device
A method and medical device for determining a cardiac event that includes sensing a cardiac signal, determining a predetermined number of sensed cardiac events in response to the sensed cardiac signal, determining a plurality of sensed event windows in response to the predetermined number of the sensed cardiac events, determining, for each of the plurality of sensed event windows, whether a number of paced events is less than a paced event threshold, determining whether intervals within the sensed event windows having a number of paced events less than the paced event threshold are greater than an interval threshold, determining an interval difference factor for each of the plurality of windows having intervals less than the interval threshold, and determining the cardiac event in response to the interval difference factors determined for each of the plurality of windows. |
| US09717436B2 |
Method and system for detection of biological rhythm disorders
System, assembly and method are provided to facilitate reconstruction of cardiac information representing a complex rhythm disorder associated with a patient's heart to indicate a source of the heart rhythm disorder. The complex rhythm disorder can be treated by application of energy to modify the source of the rhythm disorder. |
| US09717435B2 |
Intravenous line flow sensor for advanced diagnostics and monitoring in emergency medicine
A portable medical device having an intravenous line flow sensor integrated into a cable. The portable medical device may be a defibrillator having an ECG or electrode cable couple to ECG or electrode leads. The flow sensor may be integrated into the ECG or electrode cable. The portable medical device uses the flow sensor to capture and store information about fluids delivered to a patient being treated with the portable medical device. The information may include total volume provided, flow rate, and the like. The information may then be used to evaluate the treatment provided to the patient. |
| US09717434B2 |
Perfusion cannula with integrated sensor technology
The present invention relates to a perfusion cannula for placement of an access, having a cannula wall and a perfusion lumen which is surrounded by the cannula wall and in which a fluid flow can flow through the perfusion cannula, wherein the perfusion cannula furthermore comprises at least one sensor lumen and at least one sensor device, in particular an ECG sensor, which is arranged at least partially in the sensor lumen. As a result, it is possible to provide a particularly reliable perfusion cannula with improved functionality and for reliable handling, in particular in conjunction with an extracorporeal lung support system. |
| US09717426B2 |
Optical receiver chain for components of a photoplethysmograph signal
The circuitry of an optical receiver reduces the ambient DC component and the pleth DC component to leave a pleth signal with substantially only a pleth AC component. The circuitry also provides gain control and can provide transmit power control to change the range of the pleth AC component to occupy a desired input range of an analog-to-digital converter. |
| US09717424B2 |
System and method for generating a PPG signal
Characterization of a fitness monitor based on its operation enables a processor to account for variations in device operating modes and biometric characteristics of the user. The fitness monitor includes an emitter (e.g., LED) for transmitting light toward skin of the user, a receiver (e.g., photodiode) for receiving a reflection of the transmitted light, a photometric front end for generating a photoplethysmogram (PPG) signal based on the received reflection, and a processor configured to select an intensity level for the emitter based on a comparison of a determined component of the PPG signal and a reference value. The reference value, which may characterize the fitness monitor based on a determined variability or range of the PPG signal, may be utilized by the processor to improve or maintain the signal quality of the PPG signal to enable determination of a cardiac component and/or reduction of power consumption by the fitness device. |
| US09717422B2 |
Sheath with optically interrogatable sensors
An intravascular sensor system including an array of pressure and/or temperature sensors for detecting pressure and/temperature. In one example, the sensors are interrogated with an optical catheter. In this example, the swept source is able to acquire both image and pressure/temperature data of a patient's vessel or artery. In another example, the intravascular pressure sensor system has a sheath embedded with pressure sensors in the sheath wall. Other examples include the process of making and using the intravascular pressure sensor system. |
| US09717418B2 |
Method and device for wavelength shifted imaging
A micro-camera catheter device is disclosed having at least one light source disposed on a distal end of a catheter. The light source is capable of propagating a predetermined wavelength of light with a wavelength greater than approximately 700 nanometers onto a target. The device further includes a lens system disposed on the distal end of the catheter, said lens system configured to receive light reflected from the target. The device further includes a non-linear optical media disposed about the lens system configured to reduce the wavelength of light reflected from the target. The device also includes a silicon-based solid state imaging device disposed behind the non-linear optical media configured to receive light from the non-linear optical media. |
| US09717408B2 |
Ophthalmologic imaging apparatus for stimulated eye
An ophthalmologic imaging apparatus includes: a first optical system that applies an accommodation stimulus to a subject's eye; a tomographic image forming unit that includes a second optical system that splits light from a light source into signal light and reference light, and detects interference light between the signal light having travelled via the subject's eye and the reference light, and creates a tomographic image of the subject's eye based on a detection result of the interference light; and an analyzer that compares a first tomographic image with a second tomographic image to acquire change information indicating a change in a tissue of the subject's eye due to an accommodation stimulus change. The first and second tomographic images are respectively created by the tomographic image forming unit for the subject's eye, to which first and second accommodation stimuli are respectively applied by the first and second optical systems. |
| US09717407B2 |
Apparatus and method for testing night vision
A method and an apparatus for testing night vision are disclosed. At least one visual mark is presented to a test person having an open pupil from a distance of several meters. The visual mark is configured as a light point, and a visual impression of the test person is determined by means of the visual mark. The apparatus comprises means for opening a pupil of a test person, in particular a darkened room. An examination position for the test person and a presentation apparatus for visual marks arranged at a distance of several meters from the examination position are also provided. The presentation apparatus comprises at least one point-shaped light source. A light beam thereof is directed towards the examination position. Means are provided for determining a visual impression of the test person with the help of the visual marks. |
| US09717406B2 |
Compact foldable apparatus for ophthalmology
There is a need for robust and portable system, and apparatus for ophthalmology. We propose use of folding apparatus for ocular purposes for the first time. Our system will have a chin-rest (or face-rest or forehead rest) that can be folded so that the ocular device could be transported in a brief-case type casing. |
| US09717405B2 |
Vitreoretinal membrane characterization using optical coherence tomography
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) scan data is used to automatically detect and characterize vitreoretinal membranes in a spatially precise manner to generate a mask image. The mask image may characterize various aspects of a vitreoretinal membrane. The mask image is then overlaid with an optical image of the retina to enable visualization of the vitreoretinal membrane. |
| US09717404B1 |
Multifocal lens and system and method for simulating the same
An apparatus for generating simulated images includes an input device, a processor and a display device. The input device is configured to input information on a pupil of an eye and design information for a multifocal lens. The processor is configured to generate, based on the inputted pupil information and design information, a simulated image that is visible to the eye when the multifocal lens is disposed in the eye. The display device is configured to display the simulated image generated by the processor. |
| US09717399B2 |
Endoscope with multifunctional extendible arms and endoscopic instrument with integrated image capture for use therewith
An endoscope and methods of use thereof are provided, which includes at least one multi-functional extending arm supporting a plurality of imaging, lighting and other sensory elements. The arms provide a mounting platform upon which cameras, lights and sensors may be mounted to generate multiple-angled images and video, arena-like lighting and other data for performing a minimally-invasive surgical (MIS) procedure. The arms may be inserted through a single portal in the endoscope and extended outward in multiple directions from the single portal once inserted into a body cavity. The endoscope may also include support arms which support the extending arms within the body cavity and a stabilization plate which anchors the endoscope to an external surface of the body. An endoscopic tool with optical, lighting and other sensors integrated into a functional end is also provided. |
| US09717395B2 |
Suction conduit switching apparatus and endoscope
A piston is inserted into a piston passage of a cylinder. The piston is displaced between a first position of a non-contact state and a second position by a pressing operation. At the first position, a suction source connection port of the cylinder faces a circumferential groove of the piston and a suction source conduit communicates with an outside atmosphere. At the second position, the suction source connection port faces an outer peripheral surface opening and the suction source conduit communicates with a suction connection port. A V-shaped opening portion as a correction opening portion is formed in the outer peripheral surface opening. The V-shaped opening portion causes an increment of a communication opening width at which the suction source connection port overlaps with the outer peripheral surface opening to be three times or less an increment of a pressing stroke of the piston. |
| US09717393B2 |
Household appliance with bulk unit-dose dispenser
A household appliance, such as dishwasher, includes a bulk unit-dose dispenser configured to hold multiple unit doses of treating chemistry and dispense the treating chemistry at the appropriate time in a cycle of operation. The bulk unit-dose dispenser can include a multiple compartments moveable along a track, and the compartments can be sequentially moved into registry with a dispensing opening of the appliance. |
| US09717390B2 |
Steam cleaning apparatus
A steam cleaning apparatus comprising: a main body having a boiler and a pump; a main power switch; a cleaning head coupled to a main body through a joint; a yoke in the main body or the cleaning head, the yoke having an arm contacting a position sensitive switch so that when the main body is in a non-use position, the position sensitive switch prevents the main switch from supplying power, and when the main body is in an in-use position, the position sensitive switch allows the main switch to provide power. |
| US09717389B2 |
Extraction cleaner
An extraction cleaner for a floor surface comprises a fluid delivery system for storing cleaning fluid and delivering the cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned and a fluid recovery system for removing the spent cleaning fluid and dirt from the surface to be cleaned and storing the spent cleaning fluid and dirt. The fluid delivery system can further include a bladder housed within a tank of the recovery system, and the bladder can be closed by a fill cap. |
| US09717386B2 |
Liquid extraction cleaning device
A liquid extraction cleaning device comprises a vacuum pump, a liquid pump, a cleaning solution tank, a recovery tank, first and second spray nozzles, a spray selection switch, a vacuum inlet port, an agitator assembly, and a handle. The spray selection switch controls whether liquid is expelled from the second spray nozzle when liquid is expelled from the first spray nozzle. The agitator assembly comprises first and second agitators. The first agitator is configured to rotate. The second agitator is configured to reciprocate. The handle is pivotally connected to the rest of the liquid extraction cleaning device and is lockable in several pivotal orientations. The handle can also be pivoted forward from a rearwardly extending direction to an extent that it extends forward horizontally. |
| US09717384B2 |
Apparatus and method of controlling operation of cleaner
An apparatus controls operations of a cleaner. The apparatus comprises a network interface unit for receiving first information regarding external conditions through an external network, and a controller for setting up operating schedules of the cleaner based on the first information. |
| US09717377B2 |
System for dispensing a strip of absorbent product wound into a roll that complies therewith
A system including a roll formed from a web having at least one characteristic mark of the roll, and a dispenser which has an element for identifying this mark in order to determine whether a new roll installed in the dispenser is a compatible roll. The mark is present on a free end section of the new roll. This marked free end section is followed by at least one section that does not have a characteristic mark of the roll. |
| US09717374B1 |
Bodily scrubbing assembly
A bodily scrubbing assembly includes a housing that may be removably coupled to a wall in a shower. A sponge is removably positioned in the housing. Thus, the sponge is retained on the shower thereby facilitating the sponge to scrub a user's body. A plurality of couplers is provided and each of the couplers is coupled to the sponge. Each of the couplers engages the housing such that the sponge is removably retained in the housing. |
| US09717366B2 |
Beverage forming station door for beverage machine
A method and apparatus for opening and closing a door of a beverage forming machine, e.g., for accessing a beverage forming station. The door may be opened by retracting the door into an interior space of the housing, e.g., by moving the door rearwardly. When at the closed position, at least one edge of the door may be flush with an adjacent outer housing portion. |
| US09717363B2 |
Water tank type electric steamer
The present invention provides a water tank type steamer. The water tank type steamer includes a base which defines a recess therein. A plurality of steam racks which are hollow are inserted into the recess by stacking one by one from top to down. The bottom of a side wall of each steam rack is bent inwards to form a stage. An outside wall of the stage is nested in the top of the side wall of the lower steam rack. A rack bottom for holding food is put on the inner side of the stage. The bottom of the recess arranges a water storage pool. A through slot and a jack are disposed on the base. The through slot communicates the water storage pool and the jack. The jack connects a water tank. The outlet of the water tank orientates downwards to communicate with the jack. |
| US09717356B2 |
Anti-loose thermal insulation cup sleeve with reverse damping structure
The present invention provides a cup sleeve formed with a reverse damping structure having one or more rings inwardly bent and annularly arranged on one or both of the edge and the inner periphery of the cup sleeve, so when the mentioned cup sleeve is sleeved with a cup-shaped or bottle-shaped or can-shaped container, the anti-slip damping for enhancing the anti-loose function is provided by the reverse damping structure, thus the cup sleeve is less likely to be released from the cup-shaped or bottle-shaped or can-shaped container, and with the reverse damping structure, the interval formed between the cup sleeve and the cup-shaped or bottle-shaped or can-shaped container is enlarged thereby increasing the thermal insulation effect. |
| US09717351B2 |
Systems and methods for providing articulating point-of-sale apparatuses or devices
Embodiments of the disclosure can include systems and methods for providing articulating point-of-sale (POS) apparatuses or devices, such as displays. In one embodiment, an articulating point-of-sale (POS) display assembly may include a base and a movable arm attached to the base. The movable arm may be configured to move from a first position to a second position with respect to the base. The assembly may further include a pivotable display device attached to the movable arm. The pivotable display device may be configured to pivot from a third position to a fourth position with respect to the movable arm. The assembly may also include an arm joint attaching the movable arm to the base, and a pivot joint attaching the pivotable display device to the movable arm. |
| US09717350B2 |
Portable bar and accessories kit
A accessories system for a portable bar is provided, the kit comprises: at least one stool; at least one stool cover; at least one umbrella cover; and at least one bar wrap; said kit is designed to work with a portable bar and stool. |
| US09717349B1 |
Combination storage and display system
The present invention relates to a combination storage and display system, and in particular to a system that is modular, provides high density storage and easy display of mattresses. In one embodiment, the rack has a base frame with several longitudinal rails. Several display frames are also provided (one for each longitudinal rail). The display frames have a translating bar that is movable relative the longitudinal rails. The display frame has a post and an angled support. The angled support holds the mattress in a nearly vertical orientation. A mattress support is pivotally connected to the post. The mattress support has a base, two ears, a leg and a lip. The lip engages a small portion of a side of the mattress. The leg pivotally depends from an ear. |
| US09717348B2 |
Pass through shelf wall assembly
Apparatuses, systems, and methods for constructing and installing architectural walls include adjustable shelves and a clamping mechanism. The clamping mechanism may allow the architectural wall to selectively secure a panel or shelf disposed through a hole in the wall. The clamping mechanism may also be loosened to allow the panel or shelf to be adjusted, removed, or replaced as needed. |
| US09717346B2 |
Automated reflective device for monitoring a baby in a bassinet
An automated reflective device for monitoring a baby in a bassinet enables viewing the interior of a bassinet, such as a baby, from an outside vantage point. A clamp detachably attaches the device to a mounting surface on the bassinet. The device includes a reflector that is oriented in a horizontal, vertical, swiveling, and telescoping direction to provide an optimal line of site into the bassinet. The reflector has a housing and a reflective panel made of a non-glass substrate overlaid with a reflective coating. The reflective panel is oriented in relation to the bassinet, so as to reflect the interior contents of the bassinet from an external vantage point. A motor powers an actuator in the housing. The actuator adjustably moves the reflector. An LED illuminates a cool-white light inside the bassinet and on the reflective surface for enhanced viewing. A remote control operates the actuator and LED. |
| US09717338B2 |
Anti-tip roller
A file cabinet with a roller positioned on the bottom of the cabinet in proximity to a front edge of the cabinet to prevent the cabinet from tipping over when acted on by a force generally perpendicular to the front edge. The roller also provides a method of moving the file cabinet by rolling the file cabinet. |
| US09717335B2 |
Drawer stop mechanism for sliding drawer
The present invention provides a drawer stop mechanism for a sliding drawer, and the drawer stop mechanism is assembled on a drawer panel of the sliding drawer. The drawer stop mechanism includes an upper decoration strip, a lower decoration strip, at least one spring and at least one lock hook. The upper decoration strip is fixed on the drawer panel. The lower decoration strip is movably connected with the upper decoration strip by a pivot. The at least one spring is mounted between the upper decoration strip and the lower decoration strip. The at least one lock hook is fixed at the lower decoration strip. The drawer stop mechanism provided by the present invention has a simple structure, is easy to use and can lock the drawer perfectly. |
| US09717334B2 |
Drive device for a movable furniture part
A drive device for a moveable furniture part including an ejection element, an ejection force accumulator, and a locking device for the ejection element. The locking device includes a locking journal which is subjected to force of the ejection force accumulator and can be locked in a locked position in a latch region of a guide track. The guide track is shaped like a curved heart and has a tightening section in which the locking journal can be moved when the ejection force accumulator is tightened, and a latching movement section of the locking journal prior to reaching the locked position in the latch region. The locking journal impinged upon by the tightened ejection force accumulator can be slowed down and/or dampened in the latching movement section and can be placed in the latch region. |
| US09717333B2 |
Bracket device
A bracket device is adapted for mounting an object arranged on a slide rail assembly to a post of a rack. The bracket device includes a bracket and an engagement member. The bracket is connected to the slide rail assembly and has a longitudinal wall and an end wall substantially perpendicularly connected to the longitudinal wall. The end wall is mounted to the post of the rack by at least one mounting member. The engagement member is arranged on the bracket and releasably engaged with a portion of the object. |
| US09717327B2 |
Console furniture and features thereof
The present disclosure is directed to console furniture and related features. A support structure is provided for supporting a work surface, the support structure comprising a frame defining an interior space, a frame brace receivable into the interior space of the frame, a support for supporting the work surface, and at least one fastening mechanism for extending between the frame brace and the support to clamp the frame therebetween, thereby securing the support about the frame. A console with a height adjustable work surface is also provided. |
| US09717326B2 |
Pedestal apparatus
The invention discloses a pedestal apparatus for an article of furniture. The pedestal apparatus has an elongate post formation defining a first end and a second end and having a longitudinal axis. The post formation immovably supports a fixed foot arrangement and also movably supports a variable foot arrangement. The variable foot arrangement is selectively movable along and around the longitudinal axis for varying a longitudinal and angular proximity between the variable foot arrangement and the fixed foot arrangement. Biasing means are provided for controlling movement of the variable foot arrangement whereby, in use, the biasing means causes both the fixed foot arrangement and the variable foot arrangement to abut an underlying surface and thereby provide a substantial stabilization of the pedestal apparatus. |
| US09717324B2 |
Method for producing a toothbrush and toothbrush produced thereby
A method for producing a toothbrush comprises providing a head, a neck portion, and a handle; providing a coupling element; and combining the neck portion to the handle by the coupling element so that an irreversible connection is formed. The individual parts of the toothbrush to be formed can be produced in parallel or successively, wherein some of the parts can be produced by injection molding. A toothbrush formed by the method comprises a head, a neck portion, and a handle; these elements can be produced as building blocks separately and may be connected to one another via a coupling element to form an inseparable connection. |
| US09717323B2 |
Split type hanging buckle
A split type hanging buckle includes a base and a connecting element, the base includes a top cover and a bottom cover, the top cover has a receiving groove, one end of the bottom cover has an accommodating groove, the accommodating groove corresponds to the receiving groove, the connecting element includes a first magnetic element, a second magnetic element, a connecting part and a fitting part, the first magnetic element is received in the accommodating groove, one end of the connecting part has an inserting part and a clamping part, one end of the inserting part has an receiving cavity, the second magnetic element is received in the receiving cavity, and after the second magnetic element is received in the receiving cavity, portions of the second magnetic element away from the inserting part attract the first magnet element, such that the connecting element is connected with the base. |
| US09717313B2 |
Sunshade and method of preparing a canopy
A sunshade includes: a support frame; and a canopy connected to the support frame and including a light-transmissible fabric sheet of undyed yarns and an opaque enamel coating coated on at least one side of the fabric sheet. A method of preparing a canopy includes: providing a light-transmissible fabric sheet of undyed yarns; coating an enamel composition on at least one side of the light-transmissible fabric sheet to form an opaque enamel coating on the light-transmissible fabric sheet; and drying the opaque enamel coating. |
| US09717310B1 |
Waterproof open-end zipper
A waterproof, open-end zipper includes a first zipper tape with a first engagement rail unit, a second zipper tape with a second engagement rail unit, a zipper slider slidable to force the first engagement rail unit and the second engagement rail unit into engagement with each other or separate them from each other, a box located at one end of the first engagement rail unit for receiving one end of the second engagement rail unit, a locating rod fixedly located at the first engagement rail unit, and a locating hole located at the second engagement rail unit for receiving the locating rod after insertion of the second engagement rail unit into the box to prohibit relative displacement between the first and second zipper tapes. |
| US09717302B2 |
Athletic positioning apparatus and applications thereof
An apparatus includes a heel section, a mid-foot section, and a toe section. The heel section, the mid-foot section, and the toe section collectively have a geometric shape having a first slope of a polarity along an inner edge of the apparatus from the toe section to the heel section and a second slope of the polarity along the inner edge of the apparatus to an outer edge of the apparatus at the toe section. |
| US09717301B2 |
Composite shoe sole, footwear constituted thereof and method producing the same
A water-vapor permeable shoe-sole combination (15) with an upper side (5) having at least on through hole (31) extending through the thickness of the shoe-sole combination, a barrier unit (35) with an upper side forming at least part of the upper side (50) of the shoe-sole combination, made of a water-vapor permeable barrier material (33) that forms a barrier against penetration of foreign bodies, by means of which the at least one through hole (31) is closed in a water-vapor permeable manner, a reinforcement device (25) formed for mechanical reinforcement of the shoe-sole combination (105), constructed with at least one reinforcement web (37) arranged on at least one surface of the barrier material (33) and at least partially crossing the at least one through hole (31), and at least one walking-sole part (117) arranged beneath the barrier unit (35). |
| US09717298B1 |
MEMS valve actuator system
A micro-electro-mechanical (MEMS) exhaust valve-based impact attenuating fluid filled cell for use in cushioning impact and decelerating of a wearer's body portion (e.g. head, shoulder, torso, etc.) after an impact. In combination with the use of accelerometers, pressure sensors, location and other electronics supply signals to a microcontroller, the controlled opening/closing of said exhaust valve (resulting in the expelling of said fluids with an optional combination with cell refill means) when certain parameters exceed a threshold. Individuals who engage in activities that carry a risk of injury to the head from impact in the normal course of the activity could, in combination with regular exams, benefit from a system that produces and updates a kinematic 3D model of the individual's head, including brain matter, cerebrospinal fluid paths, arterial and venous blood flow pathways, as well as the skull, supporting connective tissues and other biological structures in the head suitable for interaction with exogenous stimuli prepared from hypothetical or actual recorded impact events. |
| US09717296B2 |
Locking clip and anchor assembly for a tether
A locking clip and anchor assembly for a tether. The clip includes an opening with at least one tab extending into a portion of the opening. The clip is also configured to attach to a tether or strap. In exemplary embodiments, the anchor assembly includes a post, biased support, biasing mechanism, and base. The clip is configured to be connectable to the post and movable to latched and unlatched conditions with respect to the anchor assembly. In the latched condition the clip has a limited range of rotation possible about the post. |
| US09717291B2 |
Vented coveralls
A vented coveralls is disclosed. Said vented coveralls comprising a bottom portion and a top portion. Said bottom portion having two legs and a top portion having two sleeves. Said top portion having a front, a back, a first side, a second side and one or more vents. Said vents are capable of allowing an air flow to pass through said vented coveralls. Said bottom portion comprises a trouser portion and said top portion comprises a shirt portion of said vented coveralls. |
| US09717290B2 |
Disposable padded tape
Disclosed herein are devices for preventing or treating an injury to an individual. Also provided are devices and methods for alleviating pain or discomfort caused by equipment or other padding or articles of clothing or uniform. The device can include a disposable padded tape having a plurality of force absorbing zones. It can also include an adhesive layer for attaching the device to a body contacting surface. |
| US09717286B1 |
Support structure of bra cup
A support structure of a bra cup contains: a bra cup body and an underwire channel. The bra cup body includes a concave face and a convex face, and the concave face has an imaginary point defined on a central position thereof. The underwire channel is hollow and is in an arcuate strap shape, and the underwire channel is mounted on a peripheral side of a bottom of the bra cup body. The underwire channel includes an external layer, an internal layer, and a hollow portion. The hollow portion has an opening arranged on one end thereof and configured to accommodate an underwire. The underwire channel further includes a flexible mesh sheet arranged on one surface thereof facing the bra cup body. The flexible mesh sheet has a reinforcement section extending outwardly from the underwire channel to the imaginary point of the concave face of the bra cup body. |
| US09717284B2 |
Brassiere
A brassiere comprising a wing having a top edge and a bottom edge, at least one strap and at least one cup for receiving a breast, the cup having an around cup edge section, an underarm edge section, a neckline edge section and an apex, the around cup section of the cup having a wire, wherein the brassiere further comprises a control panel generally extending from the apex of the cup into the wing, the control panel having an upper edge and a lower edge and wherein the wire terminates proximal to the lower edge of the control panel. |
| US09717283B1 |
Body slimming garment system
In an embodiment, a body slimming garment system comprises a connection strip bonded to an overshirt at the yoke of the overshirt. The connection strip extends and is bonded to an inner belt around the torso of a user. One or more wings are bonded to the posterior of the inner belt extending radially from the user. The inner belt comprises one or more hook-and-eye components and one or more clasp locker components arranged adjacently. A primary wing comprises one or more hook-and-eye components, and one or more clasping lockers on a side of the primary wing. A second side of the primary wing comprises one or more hook-and-eye components and one or more clasping locker components each arranged adjacently. A secondary wing comprises one or more hook-and-eye components and one or more clasp lockers. |
| US09717281B2 |
Underwear
Underwear adapted to add an inner structure to a traditional covering comprising waistband and fabric panels conventionally covering the buttocks, hips, and genital areas. The inner structure may include a fabric panel bearing a ridge intended to occupy the cleft separating the buttocks, with the fabric panel adhering closely to the buttocks. The inner structure may also or instead include a fabric scrotum guard which covers the rear of the scrotum and which separates the scrotum from the inner thighs and separates the right and left perineal folds where inner thighs meet the lowermost trunk. The scrotum guard may include adjustment structure for adjusting tightness of the fit with the Y formed at the scrotum and the entire perineum. The front of the traditional covering may have an opening for retrieving the penis which opening is arranged horizontally rather than in the traditional generally vertical orientation. |
| US09717280B2 |
Adjustable collar stay for men and women's apparel
Embodiments relate to an apparatus and method for holding a shirt collar in a position and orientation on a shirt front. The apparatus includes a first elongate collar stay adapted for attachment to an inside surface of the shirt collar or positionable within a collar stay pocket of the shirt collar, the first elongate collar stay having a first adherence portion for removable contact with inside surface of the shirt collar or the collar stay pocket; and a second elongate collar stay moveably connected to the first elongate collar stay, the second elongate collar stay adapted for attachment to an outside surface of the shirt opposite the inside surface of the shirt collar and in relation thereto, the second elongate collar stay having a second adherence portion for removable contact with the outside surface of the shirt opposite the inside surface of the collar and in relation thereto. |
| US09717274B2 |
Smoke-free cigarette, cigar or pipe
The invention relates to a smokeless cigarette, cigar, or pipe having at least one depot (10) for storing and for defined release due to external heat input of nicotine and/or compound comprising nicotine to an airflow to be guided through the depot (10). According to the invention the depot (10) comprises at least one heat transfer segment (16) for targeted heat input for defined release of the nicotine and/or nicotine compound to the airflow. |
| US09717271B2 |
Filter segment comprising an acetate salt and glycerine
A smoking article comprising a filter segment, the filter segment comprising a tow material and triacetin, wherein the filter segment further comprises an amino acid acetate salt and glycerine. The amino acid acetate salt and glycerine stabilize the triacetin in order to maintain the structural firmness of the tow material. |
| US09717267B2 |
Beverages containing rare sugars
Beverages comprising rare sugars and sweetness enhancers are provided herein, wherein the sweetness enhancers are present at or below the sweetness recognition threshold concentration. Also provided are methods for improving the sweetness of a beverage comprising rare sugars by adding a sweetness enhancer in a concentration at or below its sweetness recognition threshold. Beverages comprising natural high potency sweeteners and rare sugars with sugar-like characteristics are also provided, wherein the natural high potency sweetener and rare sugars are present in particular weight ratios. |
| US09717265B2 |
Rumen-protected lutein product for producing high-lutein dairy products
A rumen-protected carotenoid animal feed product is described that is free-flowing, resistant to ruminal degradation and effective at raising the carotenoid level in milk produced by the animal. |
| US09717261B2 |
Roasted coffee beans
Provided are roasted coffee beans useful for producing a coffee beverage having rich body and taste and suppressed in unpleasant taste. The roasted coffee beans of the present invention have an L value of 10 to 20, a content weight ratio [(B)/(A)] of hydroxyhydroquinone (B) to hydroquinone (A) of 3.5 or less, and a content of chlorogenic acids (C) of 0.3 to 1.5 g relative to 100 g of the roasted coffee beans. |
| US09717255B2 |
Method of preparing a cake using phospholipase
The quality of a cake quality may deteriorate if the amount of eggs in the recipe is reduced. This deterioration can be counteracted by adding a phospholipase to the cake batter, as seen by an increased cake volume and improved cake properties after storage, e.g. increased cohesiveness, increased springiness, and increased elasticity. The cake quality (as measured by these parameters) can be further improved, even up to the level of the original cake, by adding a non-egg protein together with the phospholipase. Accordingly, a cake is prepared by a method, comprising: a) preparing a cake batter by mixing cake batter ingredients, said ingredients comprising non-phospholipase treated egg lecithin and phospholipase, and b) baking the cake batter to make the cake. |
| US09717253B2 |
Synergistic Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. aizawai and chlorantraniliprole mixtures for diamondback moth, beet armyworm, soybean looper, corn earworm, cabbage looper, and southwestern corn borer control
The present invention generally relates to the use of synergistic amounts of Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. aizawai and chlorantraniliprole for the control of Diamondback Moth, Beet Armyworm, Soybean Looper, Corn Earworm, Cabbage Looper, and Southwestern Corn Borer. Specifically, the synergistic ratio of Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. aizawai to chlorantraniliprole is from about 1:0.00003 to about 1:3. |
| US09717251B2 |
Potentiation of fixed coppers and other pesticides containing copper and supplementing plant nutrition
A pesticide, fungicidal, bactericidal, anti-pathogen or biocidal composition includes at least one biologically inert carrier; and at least one doped component including at least one fixed copper compound doped with at least one compound selected from the group consisting of iron compounds, zinc compounds, magnesium compounds, calcium compounds, and combinations and/or mixtures thereof. In one embodiment, the doped component has a particle size of about 0.5 nm to about 30 microns. A method for the control of pests includes the step of applying to the pests or their growth habitat the aforementioned composition. The method also includes the control of disease in citrus plants caused by vectors such as Psyllid nymphs, by applying the aforementioned composition to their growth habitat in citrus groves. |
| US09717250B2 |
Isothiazolinone biocides enhanced by zinc ions
The present invention relates to an antimicrobial composition comprising an isothiazolinone, such as 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one, and a zinc compound selected from zinc salts, zinc oxides, zinc hydroxides or combinations thereof. Useful zinc salts include for example, oxides, sulfates, chlorides, and combinations thereof. In use, the zinc from the zinc compound enhances the antimicrobial activity to the isothiazolin-containing composition. This enhancement permits achieving the desired antimicrobial activity at a lower usage rate than is achieved using the isothiazolinone in the absence of the zinc compound. The antimicrobial composition can also contain co-biocides, such as pyrithiones, including zinc pyrithione or copper pyrithione. |
| US09717246B1 |
Method and related solution for protecting wood through enhanced penetration of wood preservatives employing buffered amine oxides and alkoxylated oils
The present invention provides improved solutions and related methods for effecting enhanced penetration of wood preservatives through the synergistic action of an amine oxide employed in combination with an alkoxylated oil and a buffering agent. Preferred materials and quantities are recited. The system of the present invention may be employed with artificially stiffened wood. |
| US09717245B2 |
Total foliar product for agriculture / horticulture / tissue culture and hydroponic cultivation
A foliar product for use in agriculture and horticulture comprising heterocyclic nitrogen source, chelating agent and metal salts. The heterocyclic nitrogen source is Hexamine. The chelating agent is disodium salt of Hydroxy Ethylidene Di Phosphonic Acid (Na2HEDP). The metal salts are chelated using the chelating agent Na2HEDP. The foliar product provides complete raw material requirement, which enables plants to synthesize various products. Further, the present invention relates to a method of manufacturing the foliar product. Advantageously, the present invention eliminates undesirable side effects in plants and helps plants survive environmental or biological stress conditions. |
| US09717243B2 |
Piperidinecarboxylic acid derivatives as fungicides
Piperidinecarboxylic acidderivatives of the formula (I) in which the symbols A, L1, L2, G, p, Q, R1, R2, T and Y are each as defined in the description, and salts, metal complexes and N-oxides of the compounds of the formula (I), and the use thereof for controlling phytopathogenic harmful fungi and processes for preparing compounds of the formula (I). |
| US09717239B2 |
Cellulose ether as a drift control agent and rainfastness agent
Disclosed is an agricultural composition comprising at least one agricultural chemical and at least one cellulose ether, wherein the cellulose ether is a nonionic methylethylhydroxyethyl cellulose (MEHEC) polymer as well as a method for reducing spray drift during the spraying of an aqueous solution. The method comprises combining the MEHEC polymer with at least one agricultural chemical to obtain the aqueous solution and spraying the aqueous solution. Also disclosed is a method for increasing resistance to rain wash off of an aqueous solution sprayed onto a surface. |
| US09717222B2 |
Taste independent brain nutrient sensor that mediates hunger
Provided is a gene in drosophila designated as dSLC5A1. This gene is responsible for taste independent nutrient sensing. Activation of neurons expressing this gene results in hunger behavior. Provided are compositions and methods for identifying agents that can interfere with hunger behavior. |
| US09717221B2 |
Aquatic cultivation system
An aquatic cultivation system includes a bowl and a siphon equipment. The bowl contains a liquid. The siphon equipment includes a liquid intake tube, and a liquid exit tube. At least one of the liquid tube and the liquid exit tube includes an air vent. The siphon equipment includes a water level control element corresponding to the air vent. The water level control element includes a connection portion and a brake portion located on the connection portion. The brake portion is movable on a reciprocal movement locus when subject to change of liquid water level elevation to close or release the air vent, thereby drives the siphon equipment to draw intermittently the liquid in the bowl. As a result, filths in the bowl can be removed and an intermittent turbulent current can be generated to prevent the filths from depositing at the bottom of the bowl. |
| US09717220B2 |
Aquarium filter with water stream diversion system and method of use thereof
An aquarium filter with water stream diversion system and method of use thereof, having an intake, an outlet, and a pump to draw water into the intake and discharge water from the outlet. The system further includes a water stream diversion conduit having a first open end, an opposite second open end, and a fluid channel between the first and second open ends. The first open end of the conduit can releasably connect to the intake of the pump or the outlet of the pump. When the conduit is connected to the outlet of the pump, the water is diverted from the outlet of the pump into the conduit, for discharge from the conduit. When the conduit is connected to the intake of the pump, water is drawn into the conduit and discharged from the conduit into the intake of the pump. |
| US09717219B2 |
Water inlet arrangement
The invention relates to a water inlet arrangement for the use in fish tanks in aquaculture, including a pipe to feed water into the tank, the pipe having a plurality of openings and, for a better adjustment of the flow, a surrounding second element having a plurality of openings and/or a fixed or adjustable shield are provided. |
| US09717217B1 |
Small animal restraining harness or jacket
An animal restraining harness or jacket and a method of use thereof, for protecting the shoulder and upper abdomen when experimental/surgical procedures are performed and when the experimental/surgical sites must be protected from biting, scratching, and other unwanted contact. The jacket generally includes a shoulder region and collar extensions, where the shoulder region is connected to the collar extensions. The collar extensions are wrapped and secured around the collar or neck area of the animal, and the shoulder region is wrapped and secured around the shoulder and torso area of the animal. Preferably, the collar extensions and shoulder region are secured on the dorsal side of the animal, thus providing a dorsal gap therebetween. This harnesses the animal effectively and prevents escape from the restraining jacket. |
| US09717214B1 |
Variety corn line IID5449
The present invention provides an inbred corn line designated IID5449, methods for producing a corn plant by crossing plants of the inbred line IID5449 with plants of another corn plant. The invention further encompasses all parts of inbred corn line IID5449, including culturable cells. Additionally provided herein are methods for introducing transgenes into inbred corn line IID5449, and plants produced according to these methods. |
| US09717208B2 |
Cotton variety 14R953B2XF
The invention relates to the novel cotton variety designated 14R953B2XF. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants, plant parts and derivatives of the cotton variety 14R953B2XF. Also provided by the invention are methods of using cotton variety 14R953B2XF and products derived therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing cotton plants by crossing the cotton variety 14R953B2XF with itself or another cotton variety and plants and seeds produced by such methods. |
| US09717207B2 |
Cotton variety PX5540-63WRF
The disclosure relates to a cotton variety, designated PX5540-63WRF, the plants and seeds of the cotton variety PX5540-63WRF, methods for producing a cotton plant, either varietal or hybrid, produced by crossing the cotton variety PX5540-63WRF with itself or with another cotton plant, hybrid cotton seeds and plants produced by crossing the variety PX5540-63WRF with another cotton variety or plan, methods for producing a cotton plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes, and the transgenic cotton plants produced by that method. This disclosure also relates to cotton varieties derived from cotton variety PX5540-63WRF, to methods for producing other cotton varieties derived from cotton variety PX5540-63WRF, and to the varieties derived by the use of those methods. |
| US09717202B2 |
Tomato line PSQ9Z12-9066
The invention provides seed and plants of tomato line PSQ9Z12-9066. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of tomato line PSQ9Z12-9066, and to methods for producing a tomato plant produced by crossing such plants with themselves or with another tomato plant, such as a plant of another genotype. The invention further relates to seeds and plants produced by such crossing. The invention further relates to parts of such plants, including the fruit and gametes of such plants. |
| US09717196B2 |
Tomato line FIRXM12-4126
The invention provides seed and plants of tomato line FIRXM12-4126. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of tomato line FIRXM12-4126, and to methods for producing a tomato plant produced by crossing such plants with themselves or with another tomato plant, such as a plant of another genotype. The invention further relates to seeds and plants produced by such crossing. The invention further relates to parts of such plants, including the fruit and gametes of such plants. |
| US09717191B2 |
Compensating for municipal restrictions within irrigation protocols
The disclosure extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for generating and optimizing irrigation protocols that are in compliance with municipal restrictions. The disclosure also extends to methods, systems and computer program products for providing automated irrigation. |
| US09717188B2 |
Collapsible plant support
A novel collapsible plant support includes a collapsible coil adapted to rest on a flat surface. In a particular embodiment, the collapsible plant support includes a plurality of vertical support structures coupled to the collapsible coil so as to provide additional support. In another particular embodiment, a collapsible plant support includes plant receptacle receiving element that supports both a collapsible coil and also a plant receptacle. In a more particular embodiment, the plant receptacle receiving element includes fluid ducts for connecting multiple plant receptacle receiving elements into a fluid network. |
| US09717183B2 |
Grain cleaning unit with cleaning airstream vented above grain pan for a combine harvester
A combine harvester includes threshing apparatus, a grain pan and a cleaning unit. The grain pan is arranged to collect a grain/chaff stream from the threshing apparatus and is driven in an oscillating manner to convey the collected grain/chaff to a rear edge from where the grain/chaff stream falls into the cleaning unit. The cleaning unit includes a fan unit for generating an airstream directed through the grain/chaff stream falling from the rear edge and an airstream vented above the grain pan. |
| US09717181B2 |
Pivotably adjustable attachment apparatus for agricultural vehicle
A pivotably adjustable attachment apparatus for an agricultural vehicle includes an attachment connected to a mounting structure. The mounting structure is operatively connected to an adapter assembly in communication with a feed device for moving a crop from the attachment to a feed device for further processing of the crop. A frame supports the feed device over an uneven surface. An apparatus is positioned between the mounting structure and the adapter assembly. The apparatus provides a substantially non-sliding contact between the mounting structure and the adapter assembly in response to the mounting structure being directed to a pivotable movement with respect to the mounting structure, thereby providing a pivotable movement of the attachment in response to encountering the uneven surface. |
| US09717179B2 |
Hydraulic system for a header of an agricultural harvester
A hydraulic system for use with an agricultural harvester header is provided. The hydraulic system includes a reversible hydraulic pump that drives a reversible hydraulic motor in a forward or harvesting direction and a reverse or header cleaning direction. The system can further include a second reversible pump similarly driving a second reversible hydraulic motor in forward and reverse directions. The pumps and motors can be used to operate various header implements, e.g., the first pump and motor may be used to operate at least a crop cutting knife and the second pump and motor can be used to operate at least one conveyor. The pumps and motors operate within hydraulic circuits which share their hydraulic fluid with the harvester's hydraulic fluid reservoir, thereby reducing system weight, complexity and maintenance requirements. |
| US09717177B2 |
Switch control mechanism for garden tool
Disclosed is a switch control mechanism for a garden tool, the mechanism comprising handles, a switch and shift rods. Triggers are arranged on the handles, and the handles can rotate around the axes thereof. The triggers are connected to the shift rods by pull ropes, and the contact faces between the pull ropes and the triggers are spherical faces. The handles of the switch control mechanism for the garden tool can rotate within 360 degrees, so as to satisfy different operators, and can ensure that a user can control the switch of a machine wherever the handles are placed. |
| US09717174B2 |
Ergonomic rotational handle for a garden tool
A method and apparatus for an improved hand tool device wherein a handle may rotate at least 45 degrees to adjust to the user to help reduce the risk of injury and increase power application while gardening by adjusting and creating a favorable angle between the ground and the point of entry of the hand tool device into the ground. |
| US09717172B2 |
Machine turn maneuver management
A control system for a mobile machine includes one or more sensors for generating machine state data and one or more computing devices. The one or more computing devices are configured to determine a first segment and a second segment of an operating path of the machine and to use the machine state data to determine an optimal speed for a turn maneuver between the first segment and the second segment of the operating path. The one or more computing devices may further be configured to determine a first optimal speed for a first portion of the turn maneuver and a second optimal speed for a second portion of the turn maneuver. |
| US09717171B2 |
System and method for automated odometry calibration for precision agriculture systems
A method including: recording a first image of a first field region; automatically treating a plant within the first region in-situ based on the first image; automatically verifying the plant treatment with a second image of the first region; and automatically treating a second region concurrently with treatment verification. |
| US09723769B2 |
Liquid crystal display device, alignment film, and methods for manufacturing the same
An alignment film includes a first pre-tilt functional group, a second pre-tilt functional group and a first vertical alignment functional group, which are linked to polysiloxane on a substrate. The first vertical alignment functional group includes a cyclic compound and is aligned substantially perpendicularly to the substrate. The first pre-tilt functional group is cross-linked to the second pre-tilt functional group and tilted with respect to the substrate. |
| US09723762B1 |
Free cooling in high humidity environments
A data center includes heat producing components and an air handling system that provides reduced relative humidity air to cool the heat producing components. The air handling system includes a thermal storage unit that removes thermal energy from incoming air under a given set of ambient air conditions and releases thermal energy into incoming air under another set of ambient air conditions. Under the given set of ambient air conditions, the thermal storage unit cools the incoming air and causes water vapor to condense out of the incoming air. Under the other set of ambient air conditions, the thermal storage unit releases thermal energy into the incoming air, thus heating the incoming air. |
| US09723760B2 |
Water-assisted air cooling for a row of cabinets
A cooling apparatus and method including a plurality of heat-producing devices positioned in a plurality of cabinets arranged in a row that allows flow of a first fluid through the heat-producing devices and cabinets where the flow is directed from an upstream end of the row to a downstream end of the row. The cabinets have a space therebetween wherein a heat exchanger is positioned between and adjacent to the cabinets, thereby the cabinets and heat exchangers alternate in the row. Each heat exchanger allows flow of a second fluid therethrough for cooling the first fluid. A fluid-moving device is positioned adjacent the heat-producing devices for encouraging flow of the first fluid through the cabinets' heat-producing devices and through the heat exchangers, thereby encouraging heat transfer in each of the heat exchangers from the first fluid to the second fluid. |
| US09723750B2 |
Ensuring proper heat sink installation in information handling systems
Systems and apparatuses for ensuring proper heat sink installation in an information handling system are disclosed. The information handling system may include a first receiving mechanism configured to receive a first component and to be coupled with a first heat sink for cooling the first component. The information handling system may further include a second receiving mechanism configured to receive a second component and to be interchangeably coupled with one of the first heat sink and a second heat sink for cooling the second component. The information handling system may further include a bracket associated with the first receiving mechanism, the bracket having a key configured to allow the first receiving mechanism to be coupled with the first heat sink and to prevent the first receiving mechanism from being coupled with the second heat sink. |
| US09723741B2 |
Housing arrangement of a power electronics device
A housing arrangement of a power electronics device includes one power module or several identical power modules, each module with at least one part connected to a hazardous voltage, the arrangement further including a housing part having room for at least one power module. Each power module includes an enclosure part which essentially surrounds the power module and includes electrically insulating material. All the external connections of the power module are placed on one single wall of the enclosure part. The power modules and the enclosure part of the power modules are arranged such that when the power module is installed to the housing part the power module is electrically insulated from the housing part and external connections of the power module are directed to the front side of the housing part. |
| US09723739B2 |
Electronic control unit and protective case
An electronic control unit includes a control board, a battery pack, and a housing that accommodates the control board and the battery pack. The electronic control unit further includes a battery holder that has a bent shape and includes a bottom surface along a longitudinal direction of the battery pack, the battery holder clamping a main body of the battery pack, and a fixing frame that includes a juxtaposing and mounting part on which a plate surface of the control board and the bottom surface of the battery holder are mounted in a state of being adjacent to each other with a boundary line along the longitudinal direction therebetween, the control board and the battery holder being fixed to the juxtaposing and mounting part. The housing includes an opening portion into which the juxtaposing and mounting part of the fixing frame is inserted, and a back side holding portion that holds the juxtaposing and mounting part at an inner back side of the housing opposed to the opening portion. The fixing frame further includes a sealing front part that closes the opening portion of the housing with the juxtaposing and mounting part accommodated in the housing and that is fixed to the housing in a state of closing the opening portion. |
| US09723738B2 |
Enclosure for electrical installations
An enclosure for electrical installations includes a bottom part and a cover hinged to the bottom part, the bottom part including a first top edge with a first fastener including a first recess and a first platform for receiving a hinge of the enclosure in a form-locked manner, and a second top edge with a second fastener including a second recess and a second platform that permits the receipt of the hinge of the enclosure in a form-locked manner, and the first fastener and second fastener are arranged on respective top edges of the enclosure to be diametrically opposite each other. In order to hinge the cover on the desired top edge of the bottom part of the enclosure and to provide the locking of the cover to the bottom part with a turnable latch, the first platform forms a first cavity on a first inner wall of the bottom part of the enclosure for receiving the latch, and the second platform forms a second cavity on a second inner wall of the bottom part of the enclosure for receiving the latch. |
| US09723734B1 |
Waterproof type control apparatus
An object is to prevent a water-repellent filter, which performs ventilation between the interior and the exterior of a sealed casing and prevents entry of water, from being wetted directly with water.A circuit board is sealed and housed in a casing including a base and a cover, a connector housing including a partition wall is mounted on the circuit board, and an electrical connection between the interior and the exterior of the casing is established. A water-repellent filter is fixed to an inner surface of the partition wall, and an outer surface portion of the water-repellent filter is opened to atmosphere via first and second ventilation holes and first and second connection ventilation holes. Therefore, the water-repellent filter can be avoided from being wetted directly with water. |
| US09723733B2 |
Metro cell aggregator enclosure
A telecommunications aggregator enclosure includes a housing and a cover movably connected thereto. The cover is movable between open and closed positions. A printed circuit board is disposed in the housing. At least one first optical termination is connected to the printed circuit board to receive cables from a base station router. At least one second optical termination is connected to the printed circuit board to receive cables from at least one metro cell. A power supply module is connected to the printed circuit board to supply power thereto. |
| US09723729B2 |
Printed wiring board
A printed wiring board includes a substrate, a first conductor layer formed on first surface of the substrate, a second conductor layer formed on second surface of the substrate, a through-hole conductor penetrating through the substrate and connecting the first and second conductor layers, a build-up layer formed on the second surface of the substrate and including conductor layers, insulating layers and via conductors, and a first insulating layer formed on the first surface the substrate and covering the first conductor layer. The substrate has a cavity penetrating through the first insulating layer and substrate and exposing the build-up layer on the substrate, the via conductors include a lowermost via conductor having a bottom portion exposed at bottom of the cavity, and the bottom portion of the lowermost via conductor is recessed relative to surface of a lowermost insulating layer in the build-up layer at the bottom of the cavity. |
| US09723728B2 |
Wiring board with built-in electronic component and method for manufacturing the same
A wiring board with a built-in electronic component includes a substrate having a cavity, an electronic component accommodated in the cavity, a conductive layer formed on the substrate and extending over the electronic component in the cavity, and a solder-resist layer formed on the conductive layer and having first and second openings such that the first openings are forming first pads including the conductive layer exposed by the first openings and that the second openings are forming second pads including the conductive layer exposed by the second openings. The second pads include portions of the conductive layer formed directly over the electronic component, respectively, and connected to the electronic component, the first pads include portions of the conductive layer formed on outer side with respect to the electronic component, respectively, and each second opening has an opening diameter which is formed smaller than an opening diameter of each first opening. |
| US09723725B2 |
Rigid-flexible circuit interconnects
In an example embodiment, a circuit interconnect includes a first printed circuit board (PCB), a second PCB, a spacer, and an electrically conductive solder joint. The first PCB includes a first electrically conductive pad. The second PCB includes a second electrically conductive pad. The spacer is configured to position the first PCB relative to the second PCB such that a space remains between the first PCB and the second PCB after the first electrically conductive pad and the second electrically conductive pad are conductively connected in a soldering process. The electrically conductive solder joint conductively connects the first electrically conductive pad and the second electrically conductive pad. |
| US09723719B2 |
Flexible interconnect structure for a sensor assembly
This disclosure provides example methods, devices, and systems for a flexible interconnect structure for a sensor assembly. In one configuration, a flexible interconnect structure may couple a first portion of a differential sensor structure to a second portion of the differential sensor structure. Further, the flexible interconnect structure may couple the differential sensor structure to an external component such as a circuit board, used to receive measurement information from the differential sensor. |
| US09723715B2 |
Anisotropic conductive film, connection method, and assembly
An anisotropic conductive film, which contains a crystalline resin, an amorphous resin, and conductive particles, wherein the anisotropic conductive film is an anisotropic conductive film configured to anisotropic conductively connect a terminal of a first electronic part and a terminal of a second electronic part, and wherein the crystalline resin contains a crystalline resin containing a bond characterizing a resin, which is identical to a bond characterizing a resin contained in the amorphous resin. |
| US09723710B2 |
Anti-tamper device
A multi-layered electronic system has: a support substrate which supports at least a primary conductive track and a conductive shorting element, which are electrical isolated from one another. A security layer has at least a conductive security connection and a flexible switch element providing an electrical interruption to the conductive security track. The conductive security connection electrically engages the primary conductive track. The flexible switch element is coplanar with the conductive security connection. A dielectric substrate, to which the security layer is affixed, is secured to the support substrate. The electrical interruption of the conductive security connection is bridged by the switch element contacting the conductive shorting element under an actuation force provided from the direction of the dielectric substrate, the switch element being biased away from the conductive shorting element in the absence of the actuation force. |
| US09723708B2 |
Conductive-layer-integrated flexible printed circuit board
The present invention provides a conductive-layer-integrated flexible printed circuit board that has excellent electrical insulation reliability and that prevents the electrically conductive layer from being detached during a reflow process. The conductive-layer-integrated flexible printed circuit board includes: (A) an electromagnetic-shielding conductive layer; (B) an insulator film; and (C) a wiring-pattern-equipped film, (A) the electromagnetic-shielding conductive layer, (B) the insulator film, and (C) the wiring-pattern-equipped film being laminated in this order, (B) the insulator film containing at least (a) a binder polymer and (b) a black coloring agent having a reflective range within the infrared range. |
| US09723707B2 |
Power module substrate, power module substrate with heatsink, power module, and method for producing power module substrate
A power module substrate includes a circuit layer, an aluminum layer arranged on a surface of an insulation layer, and a copper layer laminated on one side of the aluminum layer. The aluminum layer and the copper layer are bonded together by solid phase diffusion bonding. |
| US09723704B2 |
Neutron interrogation systems using pyroelectric crystals and methods of preparation thereof
According to one embodiment, an apparatus includes a pyroelectric crystal, a deuterated or tritiated target, an ion source, and a common support coupled to the pyroelectric crystal, the deuterated or tritiated target, and the ion source. In another embodiment, a method includes producing a voltage of negative polarity on a surface of a deuterated or tritiated target in response to a temperature change of a pyroelectric crystal, pulsing a deuterium ion source to produce a deuterium ion beam, accelerating the deuterium ion beam to the deuterated or tritiated target to produce a neutron beam, and directing the ion beam onto the deuterated or tritiated target to make neutrons using a voltage of the pyroelectric crystal and/or an HGI surrounding the pyroelectric crystal. The directionality of the neutron beam is controlled by changing the accelerating voltage of the system. Other apparatuses and methods are presented as well. |
| US09723692B2 |
Fifth wheel coupling detection system with inspection and indication lighting arrangement
A system for monitoring a trailer hitch assembly includes a first sensor sensing the position of a kingpin of a trailer relative to a throat of a hitch plate, a second sensor sensing a position of the locking mechanism movable between locked and unlocked positions, a control circuit coupled with the first sensor and determining whether the first sensor indicates a proper location of the kingpin relative to the throat and whether the second sensor indicates that the locking mechanism is in the locked position, and a light source proximate the throat of the kingpin and activated when the control circuit determines that the kingpin is properly located and that the locking mechanism is in the locked position, such that the light source illuminates the throat and the kingpin assisting visual inspection of the position of the kingpin relative to the throat. |
| US09723690B2 |
Method and device for adjusting indoor brightness and smart home control system
The present disclosure discloses a method and a device for adjusting indoor brightness and a smart home control system. The method includes: detecting a display device to obtain brightness of the display device; generating indoor brightness based on the brightness of the display device; and adjusting brightness of an indoor lighting device based on the indoor brightness. |
| US09723688B2 |
Light-emitting device and manufacturing method therefor
Provided is a light-emitting device including a pair of substrates each of which includes a conductive layer, a light-emitting element, disposed between the pair of substrates, which includes a first electrode and a second electrode facing each other, and a resin layer, containing conductive particles, which fills a space between the substrates and electrically connects the conductive layers of the substrates to the first and second electrodes of the light-emitting element. |
| US09723686B2 |
Light emission device and lamp unit
A light emission device includes an organic EL panel and a molding resin. In the organic EL panel, an organic EL light emission portion is formed on a substrate. The organic EL panel is flexible. The molding resin shapes the organic EL panel so that the organic EL panel is in a curved state. |
| US09723681B2 |
LED lamp system with different color temperatures and various operation modes
An LED lamp system with different color temperatures and various operation modes can resolve the problems occurred in the prior arts. By switching the AC current continuously, not only the LED lamp sets can emit lights of different color temperatures, and moreover, at the same time, the light sensitive detector and moving object detection circuit serve to detect environmental light intensity and the moving objects so as to auto-control the lighting and light intensity of the LED lamp sets so as to match the requirements of environment protection and power saving As a result, intellectual light control for LED lamps is achieved. This is beneficial to the applications of LED lamps. |
| US09723678B2 |
Methods of controlling RGBW lamps, RGBW lamps and controller therefor
A method, controller and lighting circuit are disclosed: the variation of chromaticity and luminosity of LEDs as a function of temperature over an operating temperature range is characterized; virtual LEDs, including a virtual white are defined, such that the chromaticity of each virtual LED can be achieved by combining component light from the LEDs for all temperatures within the operating range; the requested settings R, G, B of each of three primary colors, defining a requested chromaticity and a requested luminance, are used to determine a virtual white control setting corresponding to a maximum fraction of a total luminance at the requested chromaticity which can be provided by the virtual white LED; control settings for each of the other LEDs are thereby determined, and the setting for each of the LEDs is determined from the sum of that LED's component of the virtual LEDs. |
| US09723677B2 |
Aircraft landing light unit, exterior aircraft lighting system and method of operating an aircraft landing light unit
An aircraft landing light unit includes a plurality of LEDs, an optical system associated with the plurality of LEDs for shaping a light output of the aircraft landing light unit for illuminating an aircraft environment, a control unit for controlling the plurality of LEDs, and a photo detector arranged for detecting light, emitted by the plurality of LEDs, output via the optical system and reflected by atmospheric haze, such as clouds, fog, rain and snow, wherein the control unit is coupled to the photo detector and is configured to control the plurality of LEDs on the basis of the light detected by the photo detector, thereby adjusting the light output of the aircraft landing light unit to the atmospheric haze. |
| US09723676B2 |
Method and system for modifying a beacon light source for use in a light based positioning system
In one aspect, the present disclosure related to a method for modifying a beacon light source for use in a light-based positioning system. In some embodiments, the method includes selecting a modulation scheme for the light source, determining a duty cycle for the light source based on the modulation scheme, the duty cycle having a proportion of time the light source is in an on state and a corresponding proportion of time the light source is in an off state, the proportion of time the light source is in an off state resulting in reduced luminosity of the light source, and supplying additional power to the light source to compensate for the reduced luminosity of the light source by the duty cycle. |
| US09723675B2 |
Dimming circuit
A dimming circuit includes an active dimmer configured to apply input power Vin to an amplification module or an error compensation module, the amplification module configured to amplify an output current of the active dimmer, and the error compensation module configured to correct an error or distortion of the amplification module. The amplification module and the error compensation module are connected in a feedback form. |
| US09723669B2 |
LED lighting system and controller, a method of controlling a plurality of LEDs, and a computer program therefor
An LED lighting system is disclosed comprising: a heatsink; a plurality of strings of LEDs each string comprising one or more LEDs each having a junction and being mounted on the heatsink, and a controller comprising a memory unit and a processor and being configured to supply a current to each of the strings of LEDs; the processor comprises: a first temperature estimation subunit configured to generate an estimate of a temperature of the junction of a one of strings of LEDs; a heatsink temperature estimation subunit configured to estimate a temperature of the heatsink unit from the first estimate; and a second temperature estimation subunit configured to provide an estimate of a temperature of the junction of a second string of LEDs, from the estimated temperature of the heatsink. A controller for and method of operating a plurality of LEDs are also disclosed. |
| US09723664B2 |
Control methods and power converters suitable for TRIAC dimming
Control methods and apparatuses providing a holding current for a TRIAC dimmer are disclosed. A control method is suitable for a power controller powered by an operation power source. A high-voltage device in the power controller is connected between the operation power source and an input power source, from which the high-voltage device drains a conduction current. An operation voltage of the operation power source is detected, and, during a startup procedure, the conduction current is forwarded to charge the operation power source. A detected voltage representing an input voltage of the input power source is provided, and if the detected voltage is below a setting voltage, the conduction current is forwarded to a ground line instead of charging the operation power source. |
| US09723662B2 |
Power source module for LED lamp
A power source module for an LED lamp includes a filament-simulating circuit electrically connected to a first bi-pin terminal and a second bi-pin terminal of the LED lamp, each of the first bi-pin terminal and the second bi-pin terminal configured to allow a current to flow from one pin to the other pin via the filament-simulating circuit during a pre-heat process executed by a ballast; a current limiting circuit electrically connected to the filament-simulating circuit configured to limit a current from the filament-simulating circuit; a first rectifier electrically connected to the current limiting circuit configured to rectify the current from the current limiting circuit; and a filter electrically connected between the first rectifier and at least one LED of the LED lamp configured to smooth the current from the first rectifier. |
| US09723657B2 |
Method for the three-dimensional shaping of an object from a flexible cord, a cord for carrying out the method and an object produced in this way
A method of three-dimensionally shaping articles, such as articles that are difficult to transport, includes the following successive steps: placing at least one flexible cord (1) on a former (10), the cord (1) incorporating a heating electrical resistance surrounded by at least a first set of yarns of thermoplastic polymer material; connecting the flexible cord (1) to an electrical power supply for a given duration to cause the thermoplastic polymer of at least the first set of yarns surrounding the heating resistance to soften, the cord then taking on the shape imposed by the former (10); cooling the cord; and optionally removing the former (10) in order to obtain the three-dimensional object. |
| US09723654B2 |
Information processing system, communication terminal, information processing unit and program
There is provided an information processing system including a service provider unit, a communication terminal and an information processing unit. The communication terminal includes a terminal first communication section, a terminal second communication section to communicate with the information processing unit through a first communication channel, a terminal third communication section to communicate with the information processing unit through a second communication channel, and a terminal communication control section. The information processing unit includes a unit first communication section to communicate with the communication terminal through the first communication channel, a unit second communication section to communicate with the communication terminal through the second communication channel, a unit communication control section to switch communication channels with the communication terminal from the first communication channel to the second communication channel, and a unit processing section to perform service processing with the service provider unit. |
| US09723647B2 |
Handling a radio link failure in communications
A method for a communications system, wherein in response to detecting a radio link problem during a first phase of a radio link failure, the first user terminal transmits an indication of the detection of the radio link problem to a second user terminal over a device-to-device link. In response to a report on the radio link problem detection of the first user terminal being sent from the second user terminal to a network apparatus, the first user terminal receives a confirmation on a status of the report from the second user terminal over the device-to-device link. Based on the confirmation, the first user terminal decides, whether to stop a first radio link failure timer, reset the first radio link failure timer, or extend the first radio link failure timer. |
| US09723645B2 |
Device and method of handling device-to-device communication
A communication device for handling a device-to-device (D2D) communication comprises a storage unit for storing instructions and a processing means coupled to the storage unit. The processing means is configured to execute the instructions stored in the storage unit. The instructions comprises receiving an announcement message comprising a proximity-based service (ProSe) Application Code comprising a public land mobile network (PLMN) identity; receiving system information comprising a plurality of PLMN identities; setting a monitored PLMN identity to the PLMN identity, if the plurality of PLMN identities comprises the PLMN identity; and transmitting a match report message comprising the monitored PLMN identity. |
| US09723640B2 |
Terminal device and wireless communication system
A terminal device is capable of communicating with a master wireless device. The terminal device includes a control circuit. The control circuit has operating modes including a normal mode for outputting startup information relating to startup of the terminal device, and a registration mode for outputting registration information relating to registration with the master wireless device. One of the operating mode of the control circuit shifts to the registration mode based on timing of plural startups of the terminal device. The terminal device can shift to the registration mode using the same operation and mechanism as operating in the normal mode. |
| US09723638B2 |
Method for establishing networking connection
A method for establishing a networking connection includes: utilizing a mobile communication device to wirelessly communicate with a wireless access point to establish a networking connection between the mobile communication device and the wireless access point; utilizing the mobile communication device to encode a profile of a wireless local area network (WLAN) corresponding to the wireless access point to generate one or more profile encoded packets; utilizing the mobile communication device to transmit the one or more profile encoded packets; utilizing a wireless communication device to receive the one or more profile encoded packets; utilizing the wireless communication device to parse the one or more profile encoded packets to obtain the profile of the WLAN; and utilizing the wireless communication device to connect to the wireless access point according to the profile of the WLAN to establish a networking connection between the wireless communication device and the wireless access point. |
| US09723633B2 |
Method for transmitting packets in a mobile station
A method of performing uplink transmission at a user equipment (UE) is provided. The UE determines whether a hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) retransmission collides with a transmission for a random access in a time interval, and performs the HARQ retransmission when the HARQ retransmission does not collide with the transmission for random access in the time interval. A current value of information indicating a redundancy version (RV) for the HARQ retransmission is incremented by 1 when the HARQ retransmission does not collide with the transmission for random access in the time interval. |
| US09723626B2 |
Dynamic TDD uplink/downlink configuration using DCI
The invention relates to a method for dynamically indicating a TDD re-configuration to the mobile station by encoding the dynamic TDD re-configuration indication into the DCI or CRC calculated for the DCI. In one embodiment, the TDD configuration indication is implicitly encoded as an RNTI into the CRC, when scrambling the CRC for the DCI with a TDD-RNTI. In another embodiment, the TDD configuration indication is part of the DCI payload, while the CRC for the DCI is scrambled with a cell identifier, identifying the target cell for which the dynamic TDD re-configuration is to be applied. In still another embodiment, the TDD configuration indication is part of the DCI payload, where the DCI payload further includes an invalid parameter indicating to the mobile station that the DCI carries the TDD configuration indication. |
| US09723625B2 |
Downlink transmission in a MU-MIMO system
A method is provided for managing a downlink transmission in a Multi User-Multiple Input Multiple Output (MU-MIMO) system. The MU-MIMO system includes a base station and a set of remote radio units connected to the base station. The method includes: obtaining large scale fading data related to a large scale fading over uplink transmission associated with a user equipment (UE); generating a UE-specific channel vector by using the large scale fading data; and scheduling a downlink transmission by using the UE-specific channel vector. |
| US09723623B2 |
Access point managed concurrent transmissions
An access point may schedule concurrent peer-to-peer transmissions for different stations in a basic service set (BSS) of an Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 architecture. |
| US09723622B2 |
Method and apparatus for prioritizing voice over internet protocol signaling messages
A method and apparatus for enabling prioritization of signaling messages in a communication network are disclosed. For example, the method receives at least one signaling message, and classifies each of the at least one signaling message. The method schedules each of the at least one signaling message for processing, and discards selectively one or more signaling messages that have been scheduled under an overload condition. |
| US09723621B2 |
Priority assignment in FlashLinQ distributed scheduling algorithm to fine-tune performance
A method, a computer program product, and an apparatus are provided. The apparatus determines a degree of a link based on interference observed from at least one other link, determines a priority of the link based on the determined degree, and decides whether to yield based on the determined priority. The priority of the link may further be based on a determined data rate of the link. The apparatus may transmit the priority to another device via a request to send (RTS) signal and/or a clear to send (CTS) signal. The apparatus may also determine a priority associated with an active link and decide whether to yield to the active link by comparing the determined priority of the link with the priority of the active link. |
| US09723620B2 |
Power-aware coexistence
A communication device comprising: a receiver operable to receive radio transmissions according to a first communication protocol; a transmitter operable to transmit radio transmissions according to a second communication protocol; and an arbiter connected to the receiver and transmitter; wherein the arbiter is configured to: receive from the transmitter an indication of a first transmit operation intended for performance during a first time period and one or more intended transmit characteristics of the first transmit operation, including a representation of the intended transmit power; determine whether the receiver intends to perform a communication operation during the first time period; determine in dependence on the transmit characteristics and the receive quality, a set of one or more threshold transmit characteristics for the first transmit operation; and cause the transmitter to proceed with the first transmit operation only if its transmit characteristics are constrained in accordance with the threshold transmit characteristics. |
| US09723618B2 |
Threshold-based and power-efficient scheduling request procedure
The invention relates to methods for improving a scheduling request transmission between a UE and a base station. The transmission of the scheduling request is postponed, by implementing a threshold that the data in the transmission buffer has to reach, before a transmission of the scheduling request is triggered. In one variant, the data in the transmission buffer needs to reach a specific amount, to trigger a scheduling request. The invention refers to further improvements: the PDDCH monitoring time window is delayed after sending a scheduling request; the dedicated scheduling request resources of the PUCCH are prioritized differently such that low-priority scheduling requests are transmitted less often. |
| US09723615B2 |
Channel rank updates in multiple-input multiple-output communication systems
Embodiments of the disclosure provide a system and method for providing channel feedback information (CFI) from a user equipment device to a base station. CFI is transmitted from the user equipment device on first and second communication channels. The user equipment device is operable to measure the channel rank of a downlink channel and to select a preferred channel rank that is used to configure the CFI that is transmitted to the base station. The base station is operable to use the preferred channel rank to interpret the CFI transmitted by the user end device. |
| US09723612B2 |
Frequency translation in a virtualized distributed antenna system
A method for communicating with wireless user devices includes receiving a signal at a DAU, the signal residing within a first frequency band and processing the signal at the DAU. The method also includes transmitting the processed signal from the DAU and receiving the transmitted signal at a DRU. The method further includes converting the signal to a second frequency band different than the first frequency band. |
| US09723610B2 |
Multi-layer timing synchronization framework
A device for transmitting data to a network includes a source subsystem and a communication subsystem. The source subsystem generates a first data packet that includes first timing information that is based on a time that the first data packet is generated. The first timing information is generated responsive to a first timing generator included in the source subsystem. The communication subsystem is coupled to the source subsystem via one or more abstraction layers and is configured to modify the first data packet to generate a modified data packet for transmission to the network. The modified data packet includes the first timing information and second timing information that is based on a time that the modified data packed is transmitted. The communications subsystem includes a second timing generator that is linked to the first timing generator through the one or more abstraction layers to generate the second timing information. |
| US09723608B2 |
Method and device for D2D communication
The present invention discloses a method for D2D communication. The method includes carrying control information and data information, to be sent, in a physical resource block, wherein the physical resource block comprises M OFDM symbols in the time domain and N subcarriers in the frequency domain. The control information comprises at least one of MCS, RV, and NDI, at least one of the MCS, the RV, and the NDI being mapped onto an RE in a high frequency part of the physical resource block. The data information is mapped onto a blank RE in the physical resource block excluding the RE onto which the control information is mapped. The method also includes sending the physical resource block to a target user equipment on a D2D communication link. Spectral efficiency and data transmission rate can be improved by reasonably configuring an uplink physical channel of D2D communication. |
| US09723604B2 |
Method and terminal device for allocating resources in a plurality of subframes
A method operating a telecommunications system including a base station and plural terminal devices arranged to communicate over a radio interface supporting a downlink shared channel conveying user-plane data from the base station to the terminal devices and a downlink control channel conveying control-plane data from the base station to the terminal devices. The control-plane data conveys information on physical resource allocations for the downlink shared channel for respective of the terminal devices. The radio interface is based on a radio frame structure including plural subframes each including a control region supporting the downlink control channel and a user-plane region supporting the downlink shared channel. The method uses the control region of a first radio subframe to convey an indication of a physical resource allocation for a first terminal device on the shared downlink channel in the user-plane region of a second radio subframe subsequent to the first radio subframe. |
| US09723595B2 |
Hybrid ARQ schemes with soft combining in variable rate packet data applications
A system and method for transmitting high speed data on fixed rate and for variable rate channels. The system and method provides the flexibility of adjusting the data rate, the coding rate, and the nature of individual retransmissions. Further, the system and method supports partial soft combining of retransmitted data with previously transmitted data, supports parity bit selection for successive retransmissions, and supports various combinations of data rate variations, coding rate variations, and partial data transmissions. |
| US09723592B2 |
Method and user equipment for transmitting uplink signal, and method and evolved node B for receiving uplink signal
A UE receives downlink control information from an eNB through a PDCCH (Physical Downlink Control Channel) including one or more CCEs (Control Channel Elements). The UE transmits ACK/NACK (ACKnowledgment/Negative ACK) information associated with the downlink control information to the eNB by using at least one of a first PUCCH resource, which corresponds to an index determined on the basis of first offset information and an index of a specific CCE in the PDCCH and is generated using first cell identification information, and a second PUCCH resource, which corresponds to an index determined on the basis of second offset information and the index of the specific CCE and is generated using second cell identification information. |
| US09723591B2 |
Independent signalling method for bearer management
Independent signalling method for bearer management in a communication network with transporting bearer resource request message of both the UE and RN via Base station to managing entity of RN within EPC, as a signalling message over uplink channel referred to as ‘Union of Resource Request (UR Request)’ message. The bearer resource response message referred to as ‘Independent Admission Response (IA Response)’ from one of the management entity of EPE or management entities of UE and RN within EPC are transported as a signalling message to Evolved Packet Edge (EPE) via Base station over the downlink channel. This manages bearer setup signalling as a single loop, by transportation of ‘UR Request’ signalling message and receiving one “Independent Admission Response” signalling message over uplink and downlink channels respectively. EPE is a conglomeration of network nodes comprising of UEs, RNs and all other network nodes that communicate over EPC via Base station. |
| US09723583B2 |
Masterless slot allocation
An approach is provided for collaboratively synchronizing devices in an ad hoc network. Responsive to a transmission of a map by a first device to other device(s) listening to the first device, a second device determines the map, which allocates time slots to devices, indicates a conflict by which a same time slot is allocated to the second device and another device. The transmission is responsive to a determination that a Boolean value is true with a probability p if the first device is in an alive mode or a probability q if the first device is in a dormant mode, where p>q and q>0, and where p and q indicate respective likelihoods of performing the transmission. The second device resolves the conflict by allocating another time slot to the second device. |
| US09723581B2 |
Systems and methods for establishing synchronization across multiple networks and participating STAs via operations on a known common channel
Systems and methods for establishing synchronized operations on a data delivery network are disclosed. In one aspect, a method includes receiving synchronization information for a neighbor aware network and for a second channel associated with a data delivery network (including a paging window for one of the networks), and receiving service data on the data delivery channels while maintaining synchronization on all data delivery channels using only the synchronization information from the neighbor aware network channel. The synchronization allows devices to increase efficiency by allowing them to sleep, wake-up, send or store data traffic, and receive or transmit indicators of stored data traffic, among other actions, in a coordinated manner such that the devices are awake at the same specified times (e.g., paging windows). Devices may then stay awake to receive or transmit traffic or sleep to conserve power if there is no traffic to send or receive. |
| US09723571B2 |
Method and apparatus for reporting maximum transmission power in wireless communication
An information format and apparatus used by a base station to make a scheduling decision when the base station allocates resources to a terminal in a mobile communication system are provided. Operations of a terminal to report a maximum transmission power accurately to the base station in a scheduling process are also provided. A method for calculating a maximum transmit power in a constant manner regardless of a channel status is also provided. |
| US09723564B2 |
Systems and methods for power management of a modular mobile electronic device
Systems and methods for power management of a mobile electronic device. During operation of a modular mobile electronic device, module power characteristic data of a plurality of modules coupled to the electronic device is collected. Each module is coupled to the electronic device via a respective module interface of the electronic device. A module power model is updated for at least one module of the plurality of modules based on module power characteristic data collected for the at least one module. A context-aware power budget of the electronic device is updated based on updating of the module power model for the at least one module. Module power flow of the electronic device is adapted based on updates to the context-aware power budget. Adapting module power flow includes adapting allocation of power in real-time to at least one power consumer module coupled the electronic device via a respective module interface. |
| US09723562B2 |
Position-based mobile terminal power management device
A position-based mobile terminal power management device, includes a positioning module connected to the power management and control module; a network connection monitoring module connected to the power management and control module; a power management and control module connected to the positioning module, network connection monitoring module, storage module, and terminal function module respectively; a storage module connected to the power management and control module; and a terminal function module connected to the power management and control module. With the device, a mobile terminal can automatically enable or disable the accessory devices thereof according to the position of the mobile terminal, thus saving power and facilitating use by a user. |
| US09723561B2 |
System and method for reducing power consumption in detecting signal from target device
An apparatus for wireless communications is disclosed. The apparatus includes a processing system configured to configure a subset of a plurality of RF receiver chains coupled to respective antennas to receive in an omnidirectional manner, the subset comprising at least one RF receiver chain of the plurality of RF receiver chains; determine a first energy level of at least one signal received via the subset while the subset of RF receiver chains is configured to receive in the omnidirectional manner; configure the plurality of RF receiver chains to directionally receive from a target device based on the first energy level; determine a second energy level of the at least one signal received via the RF receiver chains while the RF receiver chains are configured to directionally receive from the target device; and generate data from the at least one signal based on the second energy level. |
| US09723557B2 |
Methods for reconnecting to a network
In a first embodiment, a method includes: entering a reduced communications performance environment, wherein a mobile device connected to a network loses connection to the network; attempting to reconnect to the network in the reduced performance environment without success; recording network connection attempt information; entering an improved performance environment, wherein the mobile device is reconnected to the network; and transmitting the network connection attempt information to a remote server. In a second embodiment, a method includes: consulting a network reconnection attempts profile previously sent from a cloud server to a mobile device; based on the network reconnections attempts profile, determining a network reconnection attempt schedule; and attempting to reconnect to the network according to the network reconnection attempt schedule until the mobile device is reconnected to the network. |
| US09723553B2 |
Method, network device, computer program and computer program product for determining a set of power state parameters
According to a first aspect, it is presented a method, performed by a network device, for determining a set of power state parameters at least partly defining when a wireless terminal is to be in an active state or a power saving state. The method comprises the steps of: obtaining at least one traffic characterization parameter; for each traffic flow, simulating a plurality of sets of power state parameters; obtaining at least one operational traffic characterization parameter; associating the operational traffic with a selected traffic flow; finding an applicable set of power state parameters by finding a set of power state parameters with a low cost, wherein the set of power state parameters are associated with the selected traffic flow; and sending the applicable set of power state parameters to the wireless terminal in operation. A corresponding network node, computer program and computer program product are also presented. |
| US09723552B2 |
Tracking management systems and methods
A collaborative method for a node includes forming a local network with at least one other node using a lower power subsystem; selecting a master node from among the local network based on a first set of criteria; and communicating with a back end server over a wireless wide area network (WWAN) using a higher power subsystem. An apparatus may include a first subsystem for communicating with a local network; and a second subsystem having an active mode and an inactive mode, the second subsystem for communicating with a wireless wide area network (WWAN) when in the active mode, the apparatus selecting the active mode or inactive mode based on a set of criteria. |
| US09723540B2 |
Bluetooth-enabled femto access control
A low-cost system and methodology that facilitates improved femto access control by employing Bluetooth® technology is provided. Bluetooth-based femto access control utilizes a Bluetooth modem in a femto access point (FAP) that broadcasts a unique Bluetooth identity (ID). Nearby UEs can detect the femtocell and employ the Bluetooth ID for idle mode reselection and active mode handover behavior. Specifically, on detecting a femtocell, a UE can perform Bluetooth pairing with the FAP prior to performing attachment signaling. Moreover, only if Bluetooth signaling is successful, the UE proceeds to attach to the FAP. Thus, the system and method disclosed herein can control the UEs that attach to the femtocell, thereby reducing the signaling load and improving battery life of the UEs. |
| US09723535B1 |
Wireless network neighbor list optimization based on group delay metrics
Systems and methods for performing UE handover based on group delay variation include a base station (i) selecting a target neighbor sector from a plurality of neighbor sectors for the handover, where each neighbor sector has a group delay metric, and where the target neighbor sector is selected from the neighbor sectors based at least in part on each neighbor sector's group delay variation and (ii) initiating handover of the UE to the target neighbor sector. Some embodiments include creating a neighbor relations table (NRT) comprising at least some of the neighbor sectors, and prioritizing the NRT based on group delay and/or group delay variation. In some embodiments, selection of the target neighbor sector for the handover is additionally based on neighbor sector handover success rates and Reference Signal Receive Power (RSRP) values for neighbor sectors reported by the UE for which the handover is to be performed. |
| US09723532B2 |
Intelligent WiFi-offloading for next-generation mobile networks
A system for traffic management between a WiFi network and an LTE network that includes a network interface assignment module for determining from an operator side of the WiFi network and the LTE network a set of WiFi Access Points (APs) and LTE base stations for each user that provides a least a highest quality of experience for each of the users using input strength for all users to potential WiFi access points and LTE base stations. The system may further include an interface switching service (ISS) module that includes a control logic and a network HTTP proxy for delivering network switching instructions to devices of users. The control logic receiving instructions from the NIA module and sending signal to the devices of the users to switch from WIFI and LTE networks through the LTE network based upon signal strength of the users. |
| US09723530B2 |
Apparatus and method for providing voice call continuity using different networks in wireless communication system
An apparatus and a method for providing call continuity in a wireless communication system are provided. The apparatus includes a first communication unit for setting a call with a counterpart terminal in a first network, a second communication unit for setting a call with the counterpart terminal in a second network while the call is set in the first network, and a control unit for terminating the call of the first network after the call setup is completed in the second network. |
| US09723528B2 |
Methods and apparatus to provide packet switched service continuity during circuit switched fallback operation
Methods and apparatus to provide packet switched service continuity during circuit switched fallback operation are described. One example method includes determining that a target system does not support packet switched handover; determining if non-3GPP access for packet switched service is available; and triggering handover to the non-3GPP access. |
| US09723527B2 |
Method and apparatus for back to back reselection scheduling upon cell reselection failure
Methods and apparatus for wireless communication for improving back to back cell reselection that includes establishing that cell reselection to a primary candidate cell has failed. Afterwards, a UE determines if a set of predetermined conditions have been triggered and schedules cell reselection to a secondary candidate based on whether the set of predetermined conditions have been triggered. |
| US09723524B2 |
Method for determining handover criterion in a cellular wireless communication system
The present application relates to a method for determining handover criterion in a cellular wireless communication system, said cellular wireless communication system employing handover procedures according to which mobile stations may be handed over from a cell to another cell; said method comprising the steps of: receiving at least one handover control criterion parameter, and determining at least one handover criterion based on said at least one handover control criterion parameter. Furthermore, the present application also relates to a method in a network control entity, a method in a network entity, a computer program, a computer program product, a network control entity device, a network entity device and a cellular communication system comprising such devices. |
| US09723523B2 |
Maintaining MBMS continuity
Methods and systems for managing Multimedia Broadcast Multicast Service (MBMS) service continuity include, with a source node in a communication system, providing an MBMS, processing an event that indicates that a User Equipment (UE) being serviced by the source node is to be transferred to one of a number of candidate nodes, receiving a congestion bit from each of the candidate nodes, and providing data to the UE that causes the UE to be serviced by a target node selected from the candidate nodes based at least in part on values of the congestion bits from each of the candidate nodes. |
| US09723517B2 |
Apparatus and method for distributing data via different communication methods
An apparatus performs in parallel a first communication conforming to a first wireless communication method and a second communication conforming to a second wireless communication method by distributing transmission data to the first communication and the second communication so that first and second transmission data are distributed to the first and second communications, respectively. The apparatus detects an unallocated data amount indicating an amount of a first portion of the first transmission data that is different from a second portion of the first transmission data that is allocated to wireless resources of the first communication. The apparatus controls, based on the detected unallocated data amount, a ratio of an amount of the first transmission data distributed to the first communication, to a total amount of transmission data distributed to both the first and second communications. |
| US09723513B1 |
Method and apparatus for limiting a number of mobile devices that can contend for a time slot in a wireless network
A wireless device including a selection module configured to select a discovery window from a plurality of discovery windows in which to transmit a discovery frame, and a transmit module configured to transmit on average one discovery frame every predetermined number of discovery windows to reduce probability of collision in response to the one or more wireless devices competing for access to a channel. A discovery window is a time period in which (i) the wireless device and (ii) one or more wireless devices in a network are configured to transmit discovery frames to discover a service in the network prior to associating with each other. The discovery frame includes (i) a publish message to make information about capabilities and services of the wireless device available to other devices or (ii) a subscribe message to gather information about capabilities and services of other devices. |
| US09723512B2 |
Method of and a network server and mobile user equipment for providing chat/VoIP services in a mobile telecommunications network
A method of and an application server and user equipment for providing at least one of chat and Voice over Internet Protocol, chat/VoIP, services to the mobile user equipment in a mobile telecommunications network. The mobile user equipment comprises a chat/VoIP client for accessing a chat/VoIP service application interfacing the mobile telecommunications network. The chat/VoIP service application interfaces a plurality of proprietary chat/VoIP clients for accessing a plurality of proprietary chat/VoIP communication environments operated by a plurality of chat/VoIP service providers, for providing chat/VoIP services to the chat/VoIP client of the mobile user equipment. The chat/VoIP client and the chat/VoIP service application may be arranged such that privileged use of the mobile telecommunications network is enabled, providing a session between the user equipment and a communication environment with a predetermined or agreed Quality of Service. |
| US09723511B2 |
Node and method for buffering downlink data
Example embodiments presented herein are directed towards a mobility management node and SGW or Gn/Gp-SGSN, and corresponding methods therein, for downlink data buffering in a wireless communications network. Such buffering is useful when the wireless device is in a power saving state e.g. PSM or eDRX. Thus, since the downlink data is buffered, there is no longer a need for multiple Downlink Data Notifications to be sent. |
| US09723510B1 |
Creation and usage of radio maps for cloud-based control of self organizing networks
The present application is directed to wireless communication networks. More specifically, the present application is directed to creation and usage of radio maps for cloud-based control of self-organizing networks. Methods for localizing elements in a wireless network are provided. Methods for operating a wireless communication network. Apparatuses configured to operate within a wireless communication network are provided. Apparatuses configured to operate within a wireless communication network are provided. |
| US09723508B2 |
Wireless interference mitigation
A User Equipment and an eNodeB system are configured for performing interference mitigation in the UE. Input circuitry in the wireless communication device receives an OFDM downlink channel signal associated with a serving cell and receives downlink control information for an interfering cell. The downlink control information is used by the UE to perform channel estimation for the interfering cell. An interference mitigation module is provided for calculating an interference-mitigated version of the received channel signal using estimated channel transfer functions for both the serving cell and the interfering cell, power control parameters and using set of modulation constellation points corresponding to the OFDM downlink channel. Other embodiments may be described and claimed. |
| US09723505B2 |
Method and system for handling in-device co-existence interference in user equipment
A method and a system for handling in-device coexistence interference in a user equipment are provided. The method includes detecting in-device coexistence interference between one or more of a plurality of carrier frequencies of Long Term Evolution (LTE) radio technology and at least one frequency of non-LTE radio technologies, determining at least one of the one or more of the plurality of LTE carrier frequencies for which a measurement object is configured, and transmitting interference information associated with the at least one LTE carrier frequency affected by the in-device coexistence interference. The interference information includes a measurement object identifier of the at least one carrier LTE frequency, Direction of Interference (DOI), and time domain multiplexing assistance information. The method further includes receiving a configured method from the network entity which help mitigate the in-device coexistence interference at the user equipment. |
| US09723503B2 |
Communications system
A user communications device having active and idle states operates in a cellular communications network in which user communications devices communicate via network communications devices of cells of the network. History data identifying the cells in which the user communications device has been present whilst in the idle state is maintained. This history data is used by the user communications device or by a network communications device to enable adjustment of cell selection/reselection parameters for the user communications device in the active state. |
| US09723501B2 |
Fault analytics framework for QoS based services
A device may be configured to determine a current state of each of multiple operator network devices that provide a service via an operator network. The device may determine an allowable event at an operator network device based on the current state of the operator network device and model information that models behavior of the operator network device for the service. The device may monitor events at the operator network devices during a session. The device may detect that an allowable event for the operator network device does not occur during the session. The device may determine that a fault occurred at the operator network device during the session based on the allowable event not being detected at the operator network device. The device may provide fault information that indicates the fault occurred at the operator network device. |
| US09723495B2 |
Architecture for radio access network virtualization
Multiple access wireless communication networks/infrastructures are virtualized in telecommunications environments. A system replicates a cell identifier associated with a macro base station device to create a virtual base station device presence for a set of network devices included in the multiple access wireless communication network and thereafter facilitates communication with the multiple access wireless communication network, the set of network devices, and a mobile device through the created virtual base station presence. |
| US09723491B2 |
System, apparatus and method for managing client devices within a wireless network
According to one embodiment, a system and computer-readable storage medium for storage of software directed to the management of associations between network devices is described. The computer-readable storage medium comprising instructions which, when executed by at least one hardware processor on a network device, causes performance of operations, comprising: (1) determining a desired operating state for a client device under analysis, the client device being associated with a first network device of a plurality of network devices; (2) detecting if a triggering event has occurred based on a comparison of the desired operating state for the client device under analysis to an actual operating state for the client device under analysis; and (3) in response to detecting that the triggering event has occurred, causing the client device to wirelessly connect to a second network device of the plurality of network devices in lieu of the first network device. |
| US09723487B2 |
Mobile device security system
A location based mobile device security enforcement system includes: (a) a mobile device management (MDM) server, (b) a security control module, (c) an entry point security system, and (d) a mobile device security application, when installed and executed on a mobile device, configured to register the mobile device and its user to create a mobile device user profile for the mobile device user, when the mobile device and its user enter a secure area, authenticate the mobile device user, maintain constant contact with security control module, and make security adjustments to the mobile device if contact between mobile device and security control module is lost, mobile device security application becomes non-operational, current time is beyond the mobile device user authorized access time period, and current mobile device location is outside of mobile device user authorized access area or crosses borders between one area security level to another area security level. |
| US09723480B2 |
Information processing device, server device, data communication system, data communication method, and computer-readable storage medium storing data communication program
An example mobile terminal is a terminal for transmitting and receiving data to and from a server device via an access point by wireless communication. The mobile terminal includes an identification information storage unit configured to store a terminal ID, a signal receiver configured to receive a broadcast signal containing a plurality of terminal IDs transmitted from the server device via the access point, an ID determiner configured to determine whether or not any of the terminal IDs contained in the received signal corresponds to the terminal ID of this mobile terminal, a connection requester configured to, when the ID determiner determines that one of the terminal IDs corresponds to the terminal ID of this mobile terminal, request a wireless connection to the access point, and a data communicator configured to transmit or receive data to or from the server device via the access point by wireless communication. |
| US09723478B2 |
UE configuration method, network side device and system for proximity awareness
Disclosed are a UE configuration method, network side device and system for proximity awareness in the present invention, which are used to achieve the function of obtaining the service information by proximity awareness between terminals in a cellular communication system. The network side device configures the service ID of each service type to be sent by the transmission UE and the temporary device ID, and the network side device configures the service ID filtering template for the receiving UE according to the service types to be received by the receiving UE, and thus the configured transmission UE and the receiving UE can obtain the service information by proximity awareness. |
| US09723477B2 |
Measurement based eUICC fall-back
The present disclosure relates to a method performed by a connectivity service platform in a communication network. The method comprises storing a fall-back policy comprising information about a fall-back timer. The method also comprises sending a policy message comprising information about the fall-back policy to a radio device comprising an eUICC. The method also comprises determining that the radio device experiences a problem with a wireless network connection from a first subscription of the radio device with a first network operator. The method also comprises starting the fall-back timer in accordance with the stored fall-back policy in response to said determining The method also comprises falling back in accordance with the stored fall-back policy in response to the started fall-back timer having expired, thereby enabling the connectivity service platform to communicate with the radio device via a network connection from a second subscription of the radio device instead of from the first subscription. |
| US09723476B2 |
Location registration for a device-to-device (D2D) user equipment
The invention relates to device-to-device (D2D) communications an in particular to location registration of a D2D User Equipment (UE) being in idle mode. A D2D capable UE (D2D cluster head) is [1] configured to communicate with a communication network, is [2] able to establish D2D communication with another D2D capable UE, receives [3] from the communication system a configuration so as to send location update related messaging on behalf of UEs with which D2D communications has been established, obtains [4] information of a change of status of a UE regarding a D2D communication or a change of cell of a UE and in response to the information, causes [5] the sending of a message to the communication network, the message comprising a location update request regarding the UE. |
| US09723469B2 |
Trip anomaly detection system
An anomaly detection system is provided in connection with a transport service. The anomaly detection system can construct routine route profiles for individual users of the transport service using historical route data. The anomaly detection system can monitor a current route traveled by a user. The anomaly detection system can further identify a matching routine route profile of the respective user. The anomaly detection system can utilize the matching routine route profile to identify a probable anomaly in the current route. In response to detecting the probable anomaly, the anomaly detection system can enable a safety protocol to perform a number of actions. |
| US09723466B2 |
Enhanced control of services
Methods and apparatus, including computer program products, are provided for control of service. In one aspect there is provided a method. The method may include receiving, at an application client at the user equipment, access control information, wherein the access control information indicates whether access to a network is allowed; and determining, at the application client, whether to allow a call attempt by the user equipment based on at least the received access control information. Related apparatus, systems, methods, and articles are also described. |
| US09723465B2 |
System and method for reception of cell broadcast messages
A system, station and corresponding methods for providing warning notifications. In one exemplary method, it is determined whether any of a plurality of stations to which a Warning Notification is to transmitted is in a connected state. When it is determined that a first one of the stations is in a connected state, generating, by a broadcaster, a secondary Warning Notification formatted for transmission over a dedicated control channel (DCCH) and transmitting, by the broadcaster, the secondary Warning Notification to the first station over the DCCH. In another exemplary embodiment, a station for receiving emergency notifications is described. The station includes a receiver configured to receive a primary Warning Notification; and a processor which, upon receiving the emergency alert configuration in a format of one of a Paging Type 2 message and an SICI message, despreads a plurality of fingers. |
| US09723464B2 |
System and method for identifying a service mesh
Systems and methods for receiving service data from a data path are disclosed. In one aspect, a method includes receiving a message from a neighbor aware network, and decoding the message to determine a communication channel used to provide a service, and an indicator of a paging window for the communication channel. In some aspects, the indicator of the paging window is based on synchronization information for a second communication channel. |
| US09723460B1 |
Device message management system
A method and system for managing email or other messaging and attachments to messages which are forwarded to devices having limited processing and memory capacity. The method includes the steps of: receiving a user configuration categorizing messages for the user by elements of the message; accessing the user message datastore upon receipt of at least one new message for the user to a user data store; comparing said at least one new message to a set of user specific rules; rendering a message summary including at least one link accessible by the processing device, the link enabling action with respect to the message when selected by the user; and outputting the message summary to a user device. |
| US09723453B2 |
Method and system for providing enhanced location based trilateration
Method, systems and devices for determining for performing enhanced location based trilateration include receiving location information (e.g., waypoints) from one or more external devices, determining the validity of the received location information, performing normalization operations to normalize the received location information, assigning an overall ranking and a device-specific ranking to the location information, and storing the validated and normalized location information in memory. The enhanced location based trilateration may also include selecting four locations (e.g., waypoints) from the memory based on a combination of the overall ranking and the device-specific ranking, and generating a final location value or waypoint based on a result of applying the four selected waypoints to a kalman filter. The output of the kalman filter may also be reported and/or used as the device's current location. |
| US09723450B2 |
Inference pipeline system and method
A system to infer place data is disclosed that receives location data collected on a user's mobile electronic device, recognizes when, where and for how long the user makes stops, generates possible places visited, and predicts the likelihood of a user to visit those places. |
| US09723446B2 |
Site location determination using crowd sourced propagation delay and location data
Site location determination using crowd sourced propagation delay and location data is provided. A propagation delay component receives a set of propagation delay measurements for communications between a mobile device and an access point. A user equipment location component receives a location of the mobile device, and a combination component combines the set of propagation delay measurements and the location into a set of location data. An access point location component determines a set of intersecting locations between the set of location data and additional sets of location data, and determines a location of the access point based on the set of intersecting locations. |
| US09723445B1 |
System and method for notifying users of similar searches
Interactions between users on mobile devices can be facilitated by making the users aware when other users have performed similar searches. In one embodiment, when two users executing a mapping application on a mobile device each perform a similar search in a similar geographic area, the server that receives and performs the search request can make each user aware of the other's presence, for example by displaying an icon indicating the other user on the mapping application. The search results may be refined to indicate search results in a geographic area common to the geographic search areas of each user. |
| US09723442B2 |
Method and apparatus for identifying and presenting location and location-related information
Method and apparatus to analyze and present location information in an easy-to-digest manner are disclosed. In one embodiment, each piece of location information can include a piece of location-designating information and a piece of location-related information. Location-designating information is primarily for identifying location. Location-related information is information related to location-designating information. The location-designating information and the location-related information can be supplied by a mobile device. With the help of location-related information, each piece of location-designating information can be more accurately transformed into a label to help identify a location. The amount of location information can be reduced. All of the location-designating information pertaining to a given area can be consolidated into one piece of location-designating information related to the label. Consolidation of some of the information may not occur if a piece of location-related information changes by more than a preset value. To better present location information in an easy-to-digest manner, location information can be compared to standards. Presentation can be on a display with respect to a reference location. |
| US09723441B2 |
Location based on call detail record
Location based on call detail record. The method includes: acquiring handover call detail record (HCDR) data and handover (HO) data corresponding to at least one cell transfer during a call; The HCDR data can include a start time, an end time, passed cells during the call; The HO data can include the HO time for each pair of adjacent cells among the passed cells during the call. The method can further include estimating the location of the subscriber based on the HCDR data and the HO data. |
| US09723438B2 |
Methods and apparatus for providing map locations in user applications using URL strings
Techniques for use in a wireless communication device for displaying a map are described. The device receives via a user interface a selection of a hypertext link object in an electronic file or message. The object is associated with a URL string which includes a server address and location data corresponding to a location. When a mapping application is installed in the device, the device executes the mapping application for rendering a map of the location in response to receiving the selection of the object. When the mapping application is not installed in the device, the device executes a web browser of the device for receiving and displaying a map image of the location in response to receiving the selection of the object. |
| US09723436B2 |
Mobile device location
A mobile device is associated with a mobile communications network. The mobile device comprises: a transmitter for sending a request, to the mobile communications network, for a secure location verification (LV) message; a receiver for receiving the requested LV message, wherein the LV message is digitally secured so as to enable a selected third party application program to verify an authenticity of the LV message, wherein the LV message comprises location data determined by the mobile communications network as representing a location of the mobile device and identification data for identifying the mobile device; and the transmitter for sending the received LV message to the third party application program so as to enable the third party application program to verify the location of the mobile device. |
| US09723426B2 |
Subscription-aware and updates-aware SIM process
A wireless communication device may include a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card configured to store a subscriber profile. The wireless communication device may further include logic configured to detect attachment to a wireless access network; detect a non-activated Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card; receive a Protocol Configuration Options (PCO) message from the wireless access network; retrieve subscription status information for the SIM card from the received PCO message; determine whether the SIM card has a valid subscription based on the retrieved subscription status information; and instruct the SIM card not to initiate an activation process with a SIM Over-the-air (OTA) system, in response to determining that the SIM card does not have a valid subscription. |
| US09723425B2 |
Bass management for audio rendering
Improved methods and devices for processing low-frequency audio data are provided. A bass extraction process may involve applying low-pass filters to received audio object signals, to produce extracted low-frequency audio signals. The bass extraction process may be performed prior to a process of rendering audio objects into speaker feed signals. A bass management process may involve routing the extracted low-frequency audio signals to the one or more speakers capable of reproducing low-frequency audio signals. |
| US09723421B2 |
Electronic device and method for controlling video function and call function therefor
A method for controlling an electronic device is provided. The method for controlling an electronic device includes operating a first microphone and a second microphone; receiving a first voice signal picked up by the first microphone and a second voice signal picked up by the second microphone; selecting at least one voice signal; storing the selected at least one voice signal; and sending the second voice signal picked up by the second microphone to a communication module. |
| US09723417B2 |
Apparatus for inputting audiogram using touch input
An apparatus and a method for inputting audiogram using a touch input are provided. An audiogram input apparatus includes: an input receiver configured to receive a touch input from a user; a data processor configured to generate an audiogram corresponding to the touch input; and a display unit configured to display the generated audiogram. |
| US09723416B2 |
Hearing assistance devices and user interfaces for use with same
A hearing assistance device including a housing, a user manipulatable control element, and a printed circuit board having a flexible substrate, sound processor circuitry on the flexible substrate, and a variable resistor that is an integral part of the printed circuit board and/or is secured to the housing. |
| US09723412B2 |
Speaker system
The present invention provides a speaker system comprising: an electroacoustic converter film composed of a polymeric composite piezoelectric body in which piezoelectric body particles are dispersed in a viscoelastic matrix formed of a polymer material that exhibits viscoelasticity at normal temperature, and thin film electrodes formed on both surfaces of the polymeric composite piezoelectric body; and a driving circuit that attenuates signal intensity of an input signal from a signal source at a rate of 5 dB to 7 dB per octave and supplies the attenuated input signal to the electroacoustic converter film. |
| US09723411B2 |
Piezoelectric speaker driving system and method thereof
A piezoelectric speaker driving system includes a band splitter, a plurality of gain producers, an adder, a piezoelectric speaker, a sound compensator and a gain-adjusting device. The band splitter receives a first audio signal and splits the first audio signal into band signals. The gain producers gain the band signals respectively. The adder receives the gained band signals to generate a second audio signal. The piezoelectric speaker outputs a sound according to the second audio signal. The sound compensator analyzes a sound pressure level of the sound to generate a control signal. The gain-adjusting device adjusts the gains of the gain producers according to the control signal. |
| US09723406B2 |
System and method for changing a channel configuration of a set of audio output devices
A set of audio output devices may be established and configured to output channel specific audio. Once established, the channel configuration may be changed and updated in response to events such as changes to user preference, or the addition or subtraction of audio output devices to the network. In some embodiments, the reconfiguration may be performed on the fly while audio content is being outputted by the audio output devices. |
| US09723405B2 |
Attenuating an input signal
Apparatus (301) for switchable attenuation of a differential input signal from a microphone includes positive and negative non-attenuating paths (406, 410) have n- and p-type MOSFETs (421, 422, 423, 424) in back-to-back configurations; positive and negative attenuating paths (405, 409) have n- and p-type MOSFETs (415, 416, 418, 419) in back-to-back configurations in combination with resistors; a gate driver (425) applies a drive signal of one polarity (QNEG) to gates of the n-type MOSFETs in the attenuating paths and the p-type MOSFETs in the non-attenuating paths, and a drive signal of opposite polarity (QPOS) to the gates of the p-type MOSFETs in the attenuating paths and the n-type MOSFETs in the non-attenuating paths; and the state of the MOSFETs depends on the drive signals at their gates, and thus the input signal may be routed via either the non-attenuating paths or the attenuating paths by controlling the drive signals. |
| US09723404B2 |
Digital low pass filter
A digital low pass filter for producing an output value given a target value includes a memory which stores a scaling factor, a previous output value, a previous intermediate value, and the target value; the difference between the target value and the previous output value is evaluated, and then multiplied by the scaling factor to produce an intermediate value; the previous intermediate value is multiplied by the scaling factor minus unity; the output value is evaluated by summing the previous output value, twice the intermediate value, and the previous intermediate value multiplied by the scaling factor minus unity; the output value is then stored in memory as the previous output value, and the intermediate value as the previous intermediate value, such that the filter provides a second-order response but requires fewer hardware multipliers than the direct form implementation of a second-order filter. |
| US09723400B2 |
Integrated loudspeaker device having an acoustic chamber containing sound adsorber material
An acoustic device having a housing and an acoustic transducer is disclosed. The housing has a transducer space for the acoustic transducer, and a back volume space. The back volume is filled with a sound adsorber material. The sound adsorber material in the back volume space is configured to virtually increase the size of the back volume space, and shift the resonant frequency of the back volume space. The acoustic chamber for the acoustic transducer and the sound adsorber material is integral to the split-shell housing of the acoustic device. The sound adsorber material is retained in a portion of the acoustic chamber by an acoustically permeable material that facilitates gas exchange within the back volume space, and between the sound adsorber material and the transducer space. The acoustically permeable material is configured in different arrangements to facilitate the gas exchange. |
| US09723399B2 |
Electronic device including acoustically isolated passive radiator and related methods
An electronic device may include a housing having an audio output port therein, a display carried by the housing, and a baffle enclosure carried within the housing. The electronic device may also include an audio output transducer carried by the baffle enclosure and acoustically coupled to the audio output port, and a passive radiator carried by the baffle enclosure, acoustically coupled between the audio output transducer and the display, and acoustically isolated from the audio output port. |
| US09723397B2 |
Wireless audio accessory for attachment to an article of clothing
A wireless audio accessory that is adapted to removably attach to an item of clothing or eyewear. The wireless audio accessory has an elongated, flexible main body with fasteners disposed along a length thereof. The fasteners comprise main body fasteners fixed to the main body and article fasteners adapted to attach to the item of clothing or eyewear. One or more sound generation units attached to the flexible main body are adapted to provide audio to a wearer of the wireless audio accessory. The wireless audio accessory includes a control unit that controls audio output aspects of the sound generation units. A short-range wireless receiver electronically coupled to the control unit receives short-range wireless signals and transmits audio signals to the sound generation units via the control unit. |
| US09723389B2 |
Speaker
A speaker is provided in the present disclosure. The speaker includes a membrane, a voice coil connected to the membrane, and a solder pad formed on the membrane. The membrane includes a conductive silicone portion and a non-conductive silicone portion. The voice coil includes a coil portion for driving the membrane to vibrate, and a line lead portion led out from an end of the coil portion. The line led portion is connected to the solder pad, and the solder pad is formed on the conductive silicone portion of the membrane. The conductive silicone portion is connected to an input terminal of the speaker to receive an electric signal for driving the voice coil. |
| US09723388B2 |
Dynamic intelligent bidirectional optical access communication system with object/intelligent appliance-to-object/intelligent appliance interaction
Present invention can enable significant bandwidth to a connected home, which comprises an intelligent subscriber optical subsystem, configured for receiving wavelength/bandwidth on-Demand. The intelligent subscriber optical subsystem also connects with one or more objects; and one or more intelligent appliances, wherein the one object at least comprises a radio module and a sensor/bio-sensor module, wherein the one intelligent appliance at least comprises a processor module and a radio module. |
| US09723384B2 |
Single synchronous FIFO in a universal asynchronous receiver/transmitter system
A UART device includes a glue logic configured to receive data from either a computer processing unit (CPU) interface of the UART device or from a receiver interface of the UART device; determine whether the data was received from the CPU interface or the receiver interface; and add a most significant bit (MSB) to the data. A value of the MSB is based on whether the data was received from the CPU interface or the receiver interface. The UART device may write the data with the added MSB to a data buffering and storage component. |
| US09723378B2 |
Method and system for integrating smart TV program channels with applications
A method and a system are provided for achieving integration of smart TV program channels with applications. The method may include performing normalization processing on data of TV program channel information, maintaining a data structure for each TV program channel, and obtaining a program table with items thereof being the information of multiple TV program channels. The method may also include performing normalization processing on data of application information, maintaining a data structure for each application, and obtaining an application table with items thereof being information of multiple applications. The method may further include mixing and arranging items in the program table and the application table to obtain a mixed table and, upon receiving a control command, looking for an item corresponding to said control command in said mixed table and displaying the corresponding content. |
| US09723376B2 |
Information processing apparatus, server apparatus, information processing method, server processing method, and program
[Object] To improve the reliability of an application processed together with broadcast content.[Solving Means] An application controller of an information processing apparatus acquires an application information table to which an electronic signature is attached and in which location information necessary for acquiring an application processed together with broadcast content is stored, and validates the electronic signature. The application controller can acquire the application based on the location information in a case of succeeding at least in the validation. |
| US09723375B2 |
Apparatus and method for processing an interactive service
A method of processing an interactive service and an apparatus thereof are disclosed. The present invention includes sending a discovery message to a second screen application, receiving a request for descriptions of the second screen support services, sending a response with the descriptions, receiving a trigger, and delivering the trigger to the second device using a trigger service. |
| US09723367B1 |
Identifying content appropriate for children via a blend of algorithmic content curation and human review
Implementations disclose identifying content appropriate for children. A method includes selecting a list of candidate channels from a plurality of channels based on an automatically generated rating of each of the plurality of channels, filtering the list of candidate channels based on feedback received from a first group of reviewers with respect to appropriateness of content of each candidate channel for children, selecting a list of candidate videos based on an automatically generated rating of each video from every channel in the filtered list of candidate channels, and upon receiving, via a graphical user interface, a confirmation that a candidate video from the list of candidate videos is appropriate for children, setting a confirmation indicator of the candidate video to enable presentation of the candidate video to children. |
| US09723365B2 |
Apparatus and method for managing media content delivery for multiple communication devices
A system incorporating teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a server having a controller to monitor for a first adjustment made by a first communication device associated with a user where the first communication device is capable of presenting media content and where the first adjustment is associated with the presentation of the media content, determine a second adjustment to be made to a second communication device associated with the user where the determination is based at least in part on the monitored first adjustment where the second adjustment is associated with the presentation of the media content and where the second communication device is a battery-operated mobile device, and wirelessly communicate adjustment information to the second communication device that is representative of the second adjustment, where the adjustment information is adapted for allowing the second communication device to perform the second adjustment. Other embodiments are disclosed. |
| US09723361B2 |
Method and system using automated workflow for monitoring of video assets
A method and system for monitoring video assets provided by a multimedia content distribution network (MCDN) includes an expert test monitoring platform (ETMP) configured to emulate MCDN client systems at a facility of an MCDN service provider. The ETMP may allow execution of ETMP scripts that specify remote control commands to send to a desired plurality of multimedia handling devices representing emulated MCDN clients. The ETMP scripts may be manually or automatically initiated and may be configured with execution parameters specifying, among other aspects, a number of iterations to repeat. Results recorded when the ETMP script executes may be retrieved and used to generate reports. |
| US09723359B2 |
Low latency wireless display for graphics
As part of a communication session, a wireless source device can transmit video component data and metadata to a wireless sink device. The wireless source device can intercept the video component data prior to the video component data being rendered by the wireless source device, and the wireless sink device can generate a frame of video data based on the video component data and the metadata. |
| US09723358B1 |
USB docking station and control method thereof
Disclosed is a USB docking station and a control method thereof. The USB docking station comprises a micro controller, a first signal multiplexer and a second signal multiplexer, a video signal processor, and a video signal converter. The first signal multiplexer chooses and outputs a first video signal from a first data signal output from a first electronic device. The second signal multiplexer chooses and outputs a second video signal from a second data signal output from a second electronic device. According to a first control signal from the first electronic device or a second control signal from the second electronic device, the micro controller controls the video signal processor to process the first video signal or the second video signal. The video signal converter converts the processed first video signal or the processed second video signal to a video output signal for displaying. |
| US09723356B2 |
Method of providing information and display device thereof
A method for providing information which is performable by a display device is provided. The method includes: receiving at least one piece of broadcasting program information; obtaining at least one of viewing history information which relates to at least one piece of content that was watched before a predetermined point of time and recording information which relates to at least one piece of content that was recorded before the predetermined point of time; and displaying at least one piece of broadcasting program information from among the at least one piece of broadcasting program information which corresponds to the predetermined point of time on a first region of the display device based on the predetermined point of time, and displaying at least one of the viewing history information and the recording information on a second region of the display device based on the predetermined point of time. |
| US09723355B2 |
Content output device and program
A data processing device, includes a bus, a demultiplexer which is coupled to the bus, and which receives a content including video data and audio data. A memory interface which is coupled to the bus, and which is connectable to a memory for temporarily accumulating the video data and the audio data output from the demultiplexer in accordance with a delay amount. |
| US09723354B2 |
Wireless tuner sharing
A system includes a server in communication with a first set top box and a second set top box. The server receives a request from the first set top box to access an available tuner of the second set top box, accesses account information associated with the first set top box, and commands the second set top box to stream content from the available tuner to the first set top box according to the account information. A method includes identifying available tuners of set top boxes assigned to different customers, receiving a request from a first set top box to access an available tuner of a second set top box, accessing account information associated with the first set top box, and commanding the second set top box to stream content to the first set top box according to the account information of the first set top box. |
| US09723353B2 |
Remote control for smart TV and set-top box
A remote control for a smart TV or a set-top box is disclosed. The remote control includes a capacitive fingerprint sensor, a processor and a wireless transmitter. The present invention takes advantages of the capacitive fingerprint sensor so that every user's personal data and corresponding setting for the smart TV or set-top box are available. Channel (or web-site) content rating can be achieved. Purchasing over TV can be safer than ever. |
| US09723348B2 |
Iterative cloud broadcasting rendering method
The present disclose relates to a computing cloud serving as a collaboration platform where internet connected electronic devices such as smart phones and tablets can log in to author, to review, to edit, to download and to play back digital content. By using different applications, the user may optionally play the role of an author, a reviewer or a consumer to digital content. User-authored digital content as well as recorded music are all stored in the cloud. Professional editing is possible by making overlay audio tracks and sound effect changes available on the client device and earmarking the timing relations among media clips in each media clip's associated metadata. An edited professional playlist is reusable by replacing some sound tracks in iterative host vs client actions. Personalized media insert is integrated into the normal streaming media as part of the inter-user media services or subscription services. |
| US09723347B2 |
Frequency capping for media content
A method, system, or device to display media segment on an electronic device. The method includes receiving a fingerprint for a media segment and a unique identifier (UID) from an electronic device and determining a media segment ID for the media segment using the fingerprint. The method can include generating and submitting a first query for the media segment ID and the UID in a record database and determining that a first count in the record database for the media segment ID and the UID exceed a first threshold count. The method can include identifying an overlay content segment to display and sending the overlay content segment to the electronic device. The method can include receiving a notification from the electronic device indicating that the electronic device displayed the overlay content segment and increment a second count in the record database for a overlay content segment and a UID. |
| US09723342B2 |
Method and apparatus for low jitter clock recovery in wireless display extensions
An approach is provided for determining a program clock reference (PCR) value validity, for avoiding inaccurate variable delay reference (VDR) values, and for avoiding a mismatch in a data packet between a sequence number and a packet number for a wireless display extension. The approach involves determining to generate a data packet carrier having an optional PCR value, a VDR) value, and a validity indicator. The approach may further involve processing the data packet carrier to determine whether the data packet carrier has the optional PCR value. The approach may also involve causing, at least in part, a surrogate PCR value to be generated based, at least in part, on a determined absence of the optional PCR value from the data packet carrier. |
| US09723337B2 |
Distribution control system and distribution system
A distribution control system includes a generating unit configured to generate still image data from content data; a converting unit configured to convert the still image data into video data; and a transmitting unit configured to transmit the video data to a communication terminal. |
| US09723331B2 |
Signaling of deblocking filter parameters in video coding
This disclosure describes techniques for signaling deblocking filter parameters for a current slice of video data with reduced bitstream overhead. Deblocking filter parameters may be coded in one or more of a picture layer parameter set and a slice header. The techniques reduce a number of bits used to signal the deblocking filter parameters by coding a first syntax element that indicates whether deblocking filter parameters are present in both the picture layer parameter set and the slice header, and only coding a second syntax element in the slice header when both sets of deblocking filter parameters are present. Coding the second syntax element is eliminated when deblocking filter parameters are present in only one of the picture layer parameter set or the slice header. The second syntax element indicates which set of deblocking filter parameters to use to define a deblocking filter applied to a current slice. |
| US09723330B2 |
Method and apparatus for sparsity-based de-artifact filtering for video encoding and decoding
Methods and apparatus are provided for sparsity-based de-artifact filtering for video encoding and decoding. An apparatus includes an encoder (400) for encoding at least a portion of an image by grouping regions within the portion based on a grouping metric, transforming the grouped regions, adaptively performing de-artifact filtering on the transformed regions using a de-artifacting filter (413) included in the encoder, inverse transforming the de-artifacted regions to create replacement regions, and restoring the replacement regions to positions with the image from which the regions were taken prior to the grouping. |
| US09723327B2 |
Luma-based chroma intra-prediction for video coding
A method for luma-based chroma intra-prediction in a video encoder or a video decoder is provided that includes filtering reconstructed neighboring samples of a reconstructed down sampled luma block, computing parameters α and β of a linear model using the filtered, reconstructed neighboring samples of the reconstructed down sampled luma block and reconstructed neighboring samples of a corresponding chroma block, wherein the linear model is PredC[x,y]=α·RecL′[x,y]+β, wherein x and y are sample coordinates, PredC is predicted chroma samples, and RecL′ is samples of the reconstructed down sampled luma block, and computing samples of a predicted chroma block from corresponding samples of the reconstructed down sampled luma block using the linear model and the parameters. |
| US09723323B2 |
Motion vector calculation method
When a block (MB22) of which motion vector is referred to in the direct mode contains a plurality of motion vectors, 2 motion vectors MV23 and MV24, which are used for inter picture prediction of a current picture (P23) to be coded, are determined by scaling a value obtained from averaging the plurality of motion vectors or selecting one of the plurality of the motion vectors. |
| US09723319B1 |
Differentiation for achieving buffered decoding and bufferless decoding
Systems and methods of managing H.264 compliant video that lacks B Frames include decoding without the use of a significant video frame buffer. This variant of the H.264 standard may include a flag indicating that the video does not include B Frames. The video may be used in applications, such as computer games, in which processing of B Frames introduces undesirable lag. |
| US09723310B2 |
Image processing device, image processing method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium
An image processing device includes a first subdividing unit that subdivides an image, a second subdividing unit that subdivides an image subdivided by the first subdividing unit along an axis that is independent from an axis of subdivision by the first subdividing unit, a differential unit that generates a difference between an image subdivided by the second subdividing unit and an image stored in an image storage unit, and a coding unit that codes a difference image generated by the differential unit. |
| US09723309B2 |
Method and apparatus for detecting gradual transition picture in video bitstream
The invention provides a method and apparatus for detecting a gradual transition picture in a bitstream. The method comprises: accessing a bitstream including encoded pictures; and determining a gradual transition picture in the bitstream using information from the bitstream without decoding the bitstream to derive pixel information. |
| US09723305B2 |
RTP payload format designs
A device for processing video data includes a memory; a receiver configured to real-time transport protocol (RTP) packets; and one or more processors configured to: receive a first real-time transport protocol (RTP) packet comprising a first network abstraction layer (NAL) unit, and in response to a transmission mode for the first RTP packet being a single session transmission mode and a first parameter being equal to a first value, determine a decoding order number for the first NAL unit based on a transmission order of the first NAL unit. |
| US09723301B2 |
Method and apparatus for context-based video quality assessment
Because neighboring frames may affect how a current frame is perceived, we examine different neighborhoods of the current frame and select a neighborhood that impacts the perceived temporal distortion (i.e., when frames are viewed continuously) of the current frame most significantly. Based on spatial distortion (i.e., when a frame is viewed independently of other frames in a video sequence) of frames in the selected neighborhood, we can estimate initial temporal distortion. To refine the initial temporal distortion, we also consider the distribution of distortion in the selected neighborhood, for example, the distance between the current frame and a closest frame with large distortion, or whether distortion occurs in consecutive frames. |
| US09723295B2 |
Image processing device, image processing method, image processing computer program, and information recording medium whereupon image processing computer program is stored
An image processing apparatus includes an image-frame reading section that reads one or more image frames from a moving image, a region-boundary-line-information receiving section that receives information concerning a region boundary line in the read image frames, a region dividing section that expands a division region starting from a point on the region boundary line and divides the inside and outside of the region boundary line with division lines, which connect points of brightness, an opening processing section that leaves a first division line between a pair of the region boundary lines and opens a second division line, a separating section that separates regions in the image frames in units of a region surrounded by the first division line, and a first depth-value giving section that gives, to the region surrounded by the first division line, a depth value representing a distance degree of the region. |
| US09723292B2 |
Imaging device
An imaging device includes a multifocal main lens having different focal distances for a plurality of regions, an image sensor having a plurality of pixels configured of two-dimensionally arranged photoelectric converting elements, a multifocal lens array having a plurality of microlens groups at different focal distances disposed on an incident plane side of the image sensor, and an image obtaining device which obtains from the image sensor, a plurality of images for each of the focal distances obtained by combining the multifocal main lens and the plurality of microlens groups at different focal distances. |
| US09723291B2 |
Apparatus and method for generating 3D video data
A plurality of video input units generate video frames and provide shooting characteristics. A 3D video frame generator creates a 3D video frame by combining a plurality of video frames, which are provided from the plurality of video input units, respectively, and provides 3D video frame composition information indicating a composition type of the plurality of video frames included in the 3D video frame, and resolution control information indicating adjustment/non-adjustment of resolutions of the video frames. A 3D video frame encoder outputs an encoded 3D video stream by encoding the 3D video frame provided from the 3D video frame generator. A composition information checker checks 3D video composition information including the shooting information, the 3D video frame composition information, and the resolution control information. A 3D video data generator generates 3D video data by combining the 3D video composition information and the encoded 3D video stream. |