US08084057B2
The present invention is related to the field of wound healing or tissue regeneration due to disease (i.e., for example, cardiovascular diseases, osteoarthritic diseases, or diabetes). In particular, the present invention provides compositions and methods comprising molecules with linked α-gal epitopes for induction of recruitment of macrophages localized within or surrounding damaged tissue. The recruited macrophages and stem cells promote the repair and regeneration of the treated injured tissue. In some embodiments, the present invention provides treatments for tissue repair in normal subjects and in subjects having impaired healing capabilities, such as diabetic and aged subjects. In some embodiments, the present invention provides treatments for injured tissues such as brain, peripheral nerve, muscle, cartilage, bone, gastrointestinal tract and dysfunctional endocrine tissues.
US08084052B1
The invention herein provides for an improved pesticide that includes at least one attractant, at least one plant growth stimulator and an insecticide. The pesticide eradicates fire ants and promotes the destruction of empty nests by subsequent plant growth.
US08084043B2
The present invention declaims the use of Pasteurella lipoprotein E (PlpE) as a subunit vaccine and the use of vaccines containing PlpE to protect animals from diseases caused by P. multocida. The results of vaccination and challenge experiments showed that mice and chickens immunized with PlpE were completely protected animals from challenge infection with 101-103 LD50 of P. multocida and no adverse effect was observed.
US08084038B2
A method of isolating nutraceuticals products from algae is provided. A method of isolating carotenoids and omega-3 rich oil from algae includes dewatering substantially intact algal cells to make an algal biomass and adding a first ethanol fraction to the algal biomass. The method also includes separating a first substantially solid biomass fraction from a first substantially liquid fraction comprising proteins and combining the first substantially solid biomass fraction with a second ethanol fraction. The method further includes separating a second substantially solid biomass fraction from a second substantially liquid fraction comprising polar lipids and combining the second substantially solid biomass fraction with a third ethanol solvent fraction. The method also includes separating a third substantially solid biomass fraction from a third substantially liquid fraction comprising neutral lipids, wherein the third substantially solid biomass fraction comprises carbohydrates and separating the neutral lipids into carotenoids and omega-3 rich oil.
US08084037B2
The present invention relates to recombinant bovine parainfluenza virus (bPIV) cDNA or RNA which may be used to express heterologous gene products in appropriate host cell systems and/or to rescue negative strand RNA recombinant viruses that express, package, and/or present the heterologous gene product. The chimeric viruses and expression products may advantageously be used in vaccine formulations including vaccines against a broad range of pathogens and antigens.
US08084030B2
Therapeutic regimens for administration of BAFF antagonists for treatment of immunologic and related disorders are described. Regimens involve a short-term BAFF antagonist administration course followed by an extended no-treatment period prior the round of administration.
US08084027B2
The present invention provides a combination comprising a compound A of formula (I) as set forth in the specification or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and an antibody inhibiting a growth factor or its receptor and/or an antimitotic agent or a derivative or prodrug thereof, useful in the treatment of tumors. The chemical name of compound A is 8-[4-(4-methyl-piperazin-1-yl)-phenylamino]-1,4,4-trimethyl-4,5-dihydro-1H-pyrazolo[4,3-h]quinazoline-3-carboxylic acid methylamide.
US08084017B2
In certain aspects the present invention provides methods and compositions related to contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging. In certain variations, contrast agents provided herein are generated in situ via genetic instructions and become potent upon sequestering available metal atoms. Exemplary contrast agents include metal-binding proteins.
US08084013B2
A method and apparatus for degasification of Claus-derived sulfur by the use of gas-liquid eductor using the liquid sulfur as the ejector motive force and ambient sweep air as the active degassing agent combined with a static mixer and packed bed for promoting the intimate contact of the air and the sulfur.
US08084011B2
A carbon nanotube manufacturing method wherein a catalyst is heated in a reaction chamber while the reaction chamber is filled with argon gas containing hydrogen. When a predetermined temperature is reached in the reaction chamber, the reaction chamber is evacuated. Then a raw material gas as a carbon source is charged and sealed in the reaction chamber whereupon the synthesis of carbon nanotube begins. Subsequently, when a condition in which the synthesis of carbon nanotubes has proceeded to a predetermined level is detected, gases in the reaction chamber are exhausted. Then, the raw material gas is changed and sealed in the reaction tube again. Thereafter, the charging (synthesizing) operation and the exhausting operation are repeated until the carbon nanotube with a desired film thickness are synthesized. A carbon nanotube manufacturing apparatus is also disclosed.
US08084005B2
An apparatus for penetrating a cover over a multi-well sample plate containing at least one individual sample well includes a cutting head, a cutter extending from the cutting head, and a robot. The cutting head is connected to the robot wherein the robot moves the cutting head and cutter so that the cutter penetrates the cover over the multi-well sample plate providing access to the individual sample well. When the cutting head is moved downward the foil is pierced by the cutter that splits, opens, and folds the foil inward toward the well. The well is then open for sample aspiration but has been protected from cross contamination.
US08083998B2
A sterilizing device for sterilizing at least a portion of a medical instrument including a housing, a reservoir suitable for containing sterilizing agent, a delivery system for conducting the sterilizing agent from the reservoir to a permeable membrane, and a lock out system that blocks access to the permeable membrane when insufficient sterilizing agent is present in the reservoir. In preferred embodiments the delivery mechanism is activatable by pressure applied to the permeable membrane by the at least a portion of the medical instrument (e.g. a head of a stethoscope).
US08083995B2
The present invention is to present a sample processing system that is capable of reducing the tasks involved in the connection of the transporting apparatus. The sample processing system comprises: the transporting apparatus 11 for transporting the sample container 32 to a predetermined position; and the analyzer 10 for analyzing the sample contained in the sample container 32 transported to the predetermined position, the analyzer 10 comprising: the connection part 15 for connecting the transporting apparatus 11; the aspirating part 10a for aspirating the sample contained in the sample container 32; the apparatus body 12 for measuring the sample aspirated by the aspirating part 10a; the input part 29 for inputting identification information for identifying a type of the transporting apparatus 11; and the control unit 16 for controlling an operation of the transporting apparatus 11 based on the identification information input by the input part 29.
US08083990B2
An iron-based alloy having shape memory properties and superelasticity, which has a composition comprising 25-35% by mass of Ni, 13-25% by mass of Co, 2-8% by mass of Al, and 1-20% by mass in total of at least one selected from the group consisting of 1-5% by mass of Ti, 2-10% by mass of Nb and 3-20% by mass of Ta, the balance being substantially Fe and inevitable impurities, and a recrystallization texture substantially comprising a γ phase and a γ′ phase, particular crystal orientations of the γ phase being aligned, and the difference between a reverse transformation-finishing temperature and a martensitic transformation-starting temperature being 100° C. or less in the thermal hysteresis of martensitic transformation and reverse transformation.
US08083969B2
Devices are described that include a component comprised of a material having a structure of R1—C(O)—NX—R2, wherein each of R1 and R2 is independently a saturated alkyl having between 7-22 carbon atoms or an aryl, X is H or C(O)—Y, Y together with R1 forms a ring. The material is characterized by a single, sharp melting point, thus making it suitable for use, for example, in thermo-mechanical actuating devices or in temperature-indicating devices. Also described are compositions comprising two or more materials each having a structure of Rn1—C(O)—NH—Rn2 wherein, n is an identifying integer corresponding to a material in the composition; wherein for each material n in the composition, Rn1 and Rn2 are a saturated alkyl having between 7-22 carbon atoms, wherein for each material n Rn1 and Rn2 differ by one carbon atom, arid wherein the number of carbon atoms in Rn2 of each material n differs by four or less.
US08083968B2
The solid scintillator according to the present invention is expressed by the following formula (1):[Formula 1] (M1-x-yGdxCey)3J5O12 (1) (wherein M is at least one element of La and Tb; J is at least one metal selected from the group consisting of Al, Ga, and In; and x and y are such that 0.5≦x≦1 and 0.000001≦y≦0.2). The transmittance of light having a wavelength of 550 nm measured at a thickness of 2 mm is equal to or greater than 40%. The solid scintillator according to the present invention can be manufactured at low cost, has a high light emitting power, and does not release Cd because Cd is not contained.
US08083967B2
A water-insoluble liquid crystalline gel composed mainly of a water-soluble polymer, itself having a gelation function together with a liquid crystal formation function and having an optical property is produced.First, the water-soluble polymer is dissolved in water or an aqueous solution containing a salt(s) to prepare a polymer solution. Subsequently, this polymer solution is dialyzed in an aqueous solution containing a chemical crosslinking agent, thereby obtaining the gel having a liquid crystal structure and composed mainly of the water-soluble polymer. Said water soluble polymer is one or two or more polymers selected from the group consisting of water-soluble biopolymers, derivatives of these water-soluble biopolymers and water-soluble synthesized polymers. The water-soluble biopolymers are one or two or more polymers selected from the group consisting of nucleic acids, polysaccharides, proteins, modified proteins and polyamino acids. The water-soluble synthesized polymers are one or two or more polymers selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl alcohol, polyethylene glycol, polyacrylic acid and polystyrene sulfonic acid.
US08083966B2
A cleaning, disinfection, and indicator agent comprising a water-soluble permanganate, particularly for mixture with an agent for ensuring an alkaline milieu having a pH value of at least 11, which, in addition to the water-soluble permanganate, contains a further oxidizing agent, whose oxidation potential is above that of manganese VII to manganese VI, pH buffer substances, preferably primary and/or secondary alkali carbonates such as sodium carbonate and/or sodium hydrogen carbonate, as well as oxidation-resistant polyphosphates. Furthermore, methods for cleaning, disinfecting, and monitoring the cleanliness of commercial and industrial plants or plant components and the use of an agent according to the present invention as an indicator solution for ascertaining the cleanliness of commercial and industrial plants or plant components by ascertaining the intensity of the light emitted in the violet wavelength range by the solution are described.
US08083963B2
A substrate is processed in a process chamber comprising a substrate support having a receiving surface for receiving a substrate so that a front surface of the substrate is exposed within the chamber. An energized process gas is used to process the front surface of the substrate. A peripheral edge of the backside surface of the substrate is cleaned by raising the substrate above the receiving surface of the substrate support to a raised position, and exposing the backside surface of the substrate to an energized cleaning gas.
US08083951B2
The invention provides a method for purifying MTO quench water and scrubbing water via mini-hydrocyclone separation, comprising: removing the entrapped catalyst particles from the MTO quench water via mini-hydrocyclone separation; cooling the quench water purified by mini-hydrocyclone separation so as to effect the recycling of water; removing the entrapped catalyst particles from the MTO quench water to be stripped via mini-hydrocyclone separation, so as to reduce the deposition of the catalyst particles within the stripping tower; removing the entrapped catalyst particles from the MTO scrubbing water via mini-hydrocyclone separation; and cooling the scrubbing water purified via mini-hydrocyclone separation so as to effect the recycling of water. The invention also provides an apparatus for purifying MTO quench water and scrubbing water via mini-hydrocyclone separation.
US08083933B2
A process for removing organic sulfur from a fuel gas stream that further contains light olefins by catalytic hydrodesulfurization to yield a treated fuel gas having an very low concentration of organic sulfur. The effluent of the catalytic hydrodesulfurization reactor may be cooled with a portion thereof being recycled and introduced along with the fuel gas stream that is charged to the hydrodesulfurization reactor. The remaining, unrecycled portion of the effluent may further be treated to remove the hydrogen sulfide that is yielded from by the hydrodesulfurization of the fuel gas stream.
US08083927B2
In vitro analyte sensors and methods of analyte determination are provided. Embodiments include sensors that include a pair of electrodes to monitor filling of the sample chamber with sample.
US08083926B2
The present invention provides a novel biosensor and measuring method. The novel biosensor of the present invention comprises an electrode having a nanopore structured and catalytically active cyclodextrin attached thereto. The biosensor of the present invention has demonstrated robust analytical performance for direct glucose measurement without mediators or without using native enzyme, which is especially beneficial in the hypoglycemia range.
US08083912B2
A carrier for a substrate, wherein at least a part of the carrier contains a material with a coefficient of thermal expansion which is higher than the coefficient of thermal expansion of the substrate, wherein in a specified region of the carrier a bar is centrally fastened whose coefficient of thermal expansion is lower than that of the region on which it is fastened.
US08083906B2
Biomass (e.g., plant biomass, animal biomass, and municipal waste biomass) is processed to produce useful products, such as fuels. For example, systems can use feedstock materials, such as cellulosic and/or lignocellulosic materials and/or starchy or sugary materials, to produce ethanol and/or butanol, e.g., by fermentation.
US08083895B2
An air stabilization system employing two parallel, opposite facing Coanda nozzles, that are positioned adjacent a flexible moving web, with each nozzle exhausting gas at opposite directions, subjects the moving web to opposing forces effective to stabilize the web. Each nozzle includes an elongated slot that is parallel to the path of the moving web. The two Coanda nozzles serve as separate points along the machine direction for controlling the height of the moving web. By modulating the flow, pressure and other parameters of gases exiting the Coanda nozzles, the shape of the moving web between the nozzles can be manipulated to present a planar contour for measurements. The air stabilization system can be incorporated into a scanner head to measure the caliper of paper, plastic, and other flexible web products.
US08083893B2
A method for producing a deep-nested embossed product is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of: a) providing an embossing apparatus having mating first and second embossing members; b) providing the first embossing member with a plurality of discrete embossing elements in a non-random pattern; c) providing the second embossing member with at least one linear embossing element; d) coordinating the at least one linear embossing element with the non-random pattern of first embossing elements; e) aligning the first embossing member and the second embossing member so that the non-random pattern of first embossing elements nest with the at least one linear embossing element to an engagement depth of greater than about 0.01 mm; f) providing one or more plies of material to the embossing apparatus; and, g) passing the one or more plies of the material between the first and second embossing members to produce the deep-nested embossed product.
US08083882B2
A method for creating imagery on a surface by establishing a visual boundary between two surface color regions and applying a dry transfer object proximate the visual boundary such that when the dry transfer object is substantially the same color as one of the surface regions, a negative space effect is created within the second surface color region to define thereby a desired image.
US08083881B1
A labeling system for applying an adhesive backed name tape to a name badge. The system includes a base member or fixture having a seat for receiving the name badge and a pair of spacedly disposed bridge members supported by the base member adjacent respective ends of the seat. The adhesive backed name tape is positioned over the name badge, extending between the pair of bridge members and spaced from the name badge. The bridge members preferably have a ribbed upper contact surface. A roller is used for contacting a top surface of the adhesive backed name tape so as to apply the adhesive backed name tape to the name badge.
US08083875B2
Low weight and non-square carpet tile suitable for use in mass transit vehicles, particularly passenger aircraft. The carpet tile preferably weighs less than about 82 ounces per square yard. The carpet tile of this invention may have a carpet pile and at least one backing layer. The backing layer may use low weight filler material. Secondary backing plastic material may be compressed into the tile structure with pressure rollers or other pressure applying process on an improved tile production line.
US08083866B2
A method for hardening the surfaces of work pieces made from stainless steel includes submerging the work pieces into a molten salt bath having the composition: potassium acetate 60-100 weight %; sodium acetate 0-100 weight %; metal salt 0-2 weight %, and are subjecting the work pieces to the molten salt bath for a period of 24 to 240 hours, during which the temperature of the molten salt bath is maintained less than 400° C.
US08083863B2
A seal is provided between the door apron and the lip of the container in a dishwasher, enabling a high sealing performance to be obtained during the entire service life of the dishwasher and providing an esthetic design. The seal can be mounted in a reliable manner without any considerable expenditure of force, recycling of a used seal is possible via appropriate selection of materials and the seal can withstand the dynamic strain put upon the door seal of a dishwasher. The dishwasher is provided with a door seal which is made of an elastic synthetic material, consisting of a fixing area for connection to the edge of a rinsing container, a sealing element for arrangement on the underside of a dishwasher and which is arranged between the fixing area, and a sealing element, wherein the fixing area, sealing element and sealing strip form a single part.
US08083858B2
The invention relates to a method for cleaning an artillery gun barrel, which is cleaned of gun oil, greases, or combustion residues using a washing liquid and a brush element. The brush element is moved backwards and forwards in the barrel with the aid of the washing liquid. In addition, copper is cleaned out of the simultaneously in the same process. The invention also relates to a system for cleaning an artillery gun barrel.
US08083849B2
The present disclosure is directed to a system and method for managing cement in a subterranean zone. In some implementations, a method of cementing in a subterranean formation includes positioning a cement slurry including a plurality of activation devices in a wellbore. The activation devices configured to release an activator that increases a setting rate of the cement slurry. A signal is transmitted to at least a portion of the cement slurry to activate the activation devices. The activation device releases the activator in response to at least the signal.
US08083847B2
To provide an infrared-shielding body sufficiently transmitting visible rays, having no half-mirror shaped appearance, requiring no large-scale apparatus when forming a film on a substrate, efficiently shutting invisible near-infrared rays with wavelength range of 780 nm or more, while eliminating a heat treatment at high temperature after film formation, and having a spectral characteristic such as transparency with no change of color tone. The starting material, which is a mixture containing a predetermined amount of a tungsten compound, is heated at 550° C. in a reductive atmosphere for 1 hour, then cooled to room temperature once in an argon atmosphere, thus producing powder of W18O49. Then, the powder, the solvent, and the dispersant are mixed, then subjected to dispersion treatment to obtain a dispersion solution. The dispersion solution and a UV-curable hardcoat resin are mixed to obtain a solution of fine particle dispersion of infrared-shielding material. The solution of the fine particle dispersion of infrared-shielding material is applied on a PET resin film to form a film, which is then cured, and an infrared-shielding film having a transmission profile shown in the figure is thereby obtained.
US08083841B2
An air filter with a clog-detecting device includes a housing having a wind outlet and a wind intake, a filter unit positioned between the wind outlet and the wind intake, an exhauster disposed between the wind outlet and the filter unit, a magnetic induction unit positioned on the exhauster, and a warning unit assembled on the housing and electrically connected with the magnetic induction unit. A metallic plate is axially fixed on the rotating spindle of a motor and positioned adjacent to the magnetic induction unit, having its upper side formed with at least one projection to enable the magnetic induction unit to induce the metallic plate and produce pulse signals. Thus, by detecting the frequency of the pulse signal, a user can know whether the air filter is clogged or not and proceed to remove the clogged condition to let the air filter continue to work normally.
US08083821B2
System for modifying the atmosphere within an enclosed space and incubator system including the same
System for modifying the chemical composition of atmosphere within an enclosed space and incubator system including such a system. The concentration of oxygen within the enclosed space may be either increased or decreased using an electrochemical device. The concentration of carbon dioxide within the enclosed space may be increased using an electrochemical or chemical device. As necessary, purging of the system with ambient air can be a part of the process of controlling the chemical composition of the atmosphere. The present invention obviates the need to use pressurized gas cylinders to supply atmospheric gases to the enclosed space.
US08083816B1
An apparatus, method, and system for producing hydrogen gas by mechanical scraping of a surface of an aluminum-containing material, in the presence of an aqueous medium, the apparatus including: (a) a reaction chamber having a discharge port, and adapted to sealably contain the aqueous medium; (b) an aluminum-containing workpiece having a working surface; (c) a scraping mechanism having a brush adapted to contact the working surface, the workpiece and the scraping element disposed within the chamber, the surface and the scraping element adapted to move in a relative motion, whereby, in an operating condition, the scraping element scrapes against the working surface to effect a liberation of aluminum-containing particles from the workpiece, the chamber adapted to be substantially sealed with respect to an ambient environment, up to a superatmospheric pressure threshold, and further adapted whereby, during contacting of the aqueous medium and the particles within the chamber, the hydrogen gas is evolved and selectively discharged through the discharge port, when a pressure in the chamber exceeds the threshold.
US08083815B2
A process to prepare methanol and/or dimethylether from a solid carbonaceous feedstock comprising the steps of (a) feeding an oxygen-comprising gas and the carbonaceous feedstock to a burner firing into a reactor vessel, (b) performing a partial oxidation of the carbonaceous feedstock in said burner to obtain a stream of hot synthesis gas and a liquid slag whereby both the hot synthesis gas and the liquid slag flow downwardly relative to the burner, (c) cooling the hot synthesis gas by direct contact with a liquid water-containing cooling medium, (d) performing a water shift reaction on at least part of the synthesis gas, to obtain a synthesis gas effluent, (e) performing an oxygenate synthesis using the synthesis gas effluent of step (d), to obtain a methanol and/or dimethylether containing oxygenate effluent and a first liquid water-rich by-product, wherein at least part of the first liquid water-rich by-product is used in step (c), forming at least part of the liquid water-containing cooling medium.
US08083812B1
A solid-electrolyte battery and a method therefor are disclosed with which the energy density can be raised and the heavy-load resistance can be improved so as to prevent deposition of lithium. The solid-electrolyte battery incorporates an elongated positive electrode; an elongated negative electrode disposed opposite to the positive electrode; and a solid electrolyte layer provided for the surface of at least either of the positive electrode or the negative electrode, wherein the positive electrode and the negative electrode are laminated such that the surfaces on which the solid electrolyte layers have been formed are disposed opposite to each other and wound in the lengthwise direction of the positive electrode and the negative electrode, and the solid-electrolyte layer formed on the positive electrode and the solid-electrolyte layer formed on the negative electrode are integrated with each other so as to be formed into a continuous shape.
US08083810B2
To provide an azo pigment excellent in coloristic characteristics such as tinctorial strength and hue and at the same time, excellent in the durability such as light fastness and ozone resistance, a pigment dispersion containing the azo pigment, a coloring composition, and an ink for inkjet recording. An azo pigment represented by the following formula (1), its tautomer, or a salt or hydrate thereof: (wherein R1, R2, R3, Y, Z and G each independently represents a hydrogen atom or a substituent; n represents and integer of 2 to 4; and the formula represents a dimer through R1, R2, R3, Y, Z or G when n is 2, represents a trimer through R1, R2, R3, Y, Z or G when n is 3, and represents a tetramer through R1, R2, R3, Y, Z or G when n is 4).
US08083803B2
A method and apparatus for arthroscopic unicompartmental knee surgery which include a femoral component and a tibial component. The femoral component is installed in a trough in the femoral condyle formed by using a template, a plurality of drill pins and a plurality of corresponding cutters. The template is aligned with the curvature of the femoral condyle, the two drill pins are passed through the template and drilled into the femur, cutters are advanced over the corresponding drill pins to make holes in the femur, and the remaining hourglass shaped bone is removed with osteotomy pliers to form the trough. A tibial socket for the tibial component is formed in a retrograde manner.
US08083796B1
An implant is provided for performing spinal fusion. The implant includes an implant body having a leading side and a trailing side at opposing ends along a longitudinal axis. Between the leading side and trailing side are an upper surface, a lower surface, an anterior side, and a posterior side. At least one keel structure is provided extending from the implant body for penetration into an adjacent vertebral body. A trial sizer and keel cutter may be utilized to form keel channels within the vertebral body to receive the keel structure.
US08083792B2
An endoprosthetic device for treating abdominal aortic aneurysms using suprarenal fixation. A stent ring is anchored in an area above the renal arteries using self-flaring barbs that project during the nitinol expansion process. Sutures extend from the stent ring to an area below the renal arteries to a bifurcated trunk portion comprising a nitinol fabric on a non-kinking frame. The bifurcated trunk is sealed proximal the iliac arteries and includes iliac leg holders having self-flaring retention struts for non-traumatic holding of iliac leg prosthetics. Suprarenal fixation and collapsible cells having retention projections and barbs that only flare during the nitinol expansion process assist in lowering the devices profile and sheathability for percutaneous delivery and may provide for recapturing the anchored device.
US08083784B2
A system and method of administering photon therapy to a treatment site of a patient are described. The system includes a plurality of treatment modules, each treatment module including a photon emitter, and a case for housing the photon emitter. The case includes linkers for linking each of the treatment modules to form an arbitrary modular pattern to cover the treatment site.
US08083777B2
An implantable bone anchor assembly for fixing an elongated member such as a spinal rod may include a bone anchor, a coupling head configured to receive the bone anchor and the elongated member, and a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism may provide compressive force to simultaneously fix the position of the elongated member and lock out polyaxial rotation of the bone anchor relative to the coupling head. The locking mechanism may include an engagement member with an oblique surface configured to slide along an oblique surface of the coupling head into engagement with the elongated member. The bone anchor may comprise a head portion and a threaded portion which may be coupled with the coupling head and joined together during manufacture. The assembly may further include a pin and/or a collar to retain the bone anchor. The bone anchor may be side-loaded into the coupling head.
US08083773B2
An apparatus is operable to correct spinal deformities caused by scoliosis and the like. The apparatus may be used in a minimally invasive fashion and through the posterior side of the patient. A combination of internal screws and rods, as well as external pins, rods, and correction mechanisms, are used to obtain facet unlocking and translational correction of the affected vertebrae. The internal rods are inserted percutaneously and are secured to the affected vertebrae to maintain the deformity correction. External components are then removed, and the small incisions are sutured.
US08083770B2
A suture anchor is provided for approximating tissue to bone or other tissue. The suture anchor comprises an anchor member to fixedly engage the bone for securing the anchor member relative to the bone. A plurality of sutures are mounted to the proximal end of the anchor member so that the sutures extend outwardly from the anchor member. Each suture has a sharp pointed distal end for penetrating the tissue and a plurality of barbs extending from the periphery and disposed along the length of the body of the suture. The barbs permit movement of the sutures through the tissue in a direction of movement of the pointed end and prevent movement of the sutures relative to the tissue in a direction opposite the direction of movement of the pointed end. At least one pointed distal end of at least one suture comprises a needle.
US08083769B2
Methods and devices are provided for anchoring suture to bone. In one exemplary embodiment, a cannulated suture anchor is provided and it includes a suture-engaging member formed therein and configured to receive a suture therearound such that trailing ends of the suture can extend through the suture anchor. The present invention also provides exemplary sutures and drivers that can be used with the various methods and devices disclosed herein, or with other methods and devices known in the art.
US08083766B2
A device for closing a septal defect of a patient comprising a covering member and at least one retaining leg. The covering member has a first configuration for delivery and a second configuration for placement on the first side of the defect. The at least one retaining leg is configured to contact tissue on the second side of the defect to retain the covering member and has a first configuration for delivery and a second configuration for placement on the second side of the defect.
US08083755B2
The present invention relates to a resorbable polymeric mesh implant, that is intended to be used in the reconstruction of soft tissue defects. The mesh implant comprises at least a first and a second material, wherein the second material is substantially degraded at a later point in time than the first material following the time of implantation. The mesh implant is adapted to have a predetermined modulus of elasticity that gradually is decreased until the mesh implant is completely degraded and subsequently resorbed. Due to the gradual decrease in the modulus of elasticity of the inventive mesh implant, the regenerating tissue may gradually take over the load applied to the tissue defect area.
US08083753B2
A surgical alignment device is disclosed that is controlled remotely through the use of an actuator, where the actuator in turn controls at least one local adjustment device. The alignment device is suited for neurosurgery, although it is not exclusively limited to neurosurgery. The alignment device includes an insertion guide that is coupled to the local adjustment device, the insertion guide being used to guide a device such as a catheter into a patient. The alignment device may also be coupled to a control module such as a microcomputer that controls the orientation of the insertion guide in response to inputs from the surgeon as to a location of interest within the patient.
US08083749B2
Apparatus for performing an open wedge, low femoral osteotomy, the apparatus comprising an osteotomy guide, a hinge pin and an osteotomy implant, the osteotomy guide comprising: anterior and posterior tissue shields having (i) openings for receiving the hinge pin and defining the hinge pin axis, and (ii) profiles configured to enable fluoroscopic alignment of the hinge pin axis parallel to the sagittal plane of the patient, a cutting guide comprising a cutting slot for defining a cutting plane extending parallel to, and through, the hinge pin axis, and a drill guide comprising a hole for forming a guide hole in the femur which extends substantially perpendicular to the cutting plane, the hinge pin comprising an elongated body, and the osteotomy implant for positioning in a wedge-shaped opening formed about the cutting plane and for receiving a screw extending through the guide hole.
US08083748B2
In at least one embodiment of the present invention, a device for mixing and dispensing a bone cement mixture is provided. The device comprises a first chamber and a second chamber. The first chamber is for containing a first bone cement component. The second chamber is for containing a second bone cement component. A valve is in fluid communication with the first and second chambers. A first and a second plunger are respectively within the first and second chambers and are configured to actuate within their respective chambers. When the valve is in a first position actuating the first plunger advances the first bone cement component into the second chamber to form the bone cement mixture.
US08083747B2
The invention relates to a dental implant method using a tissue punch, sinus lift drill (SLD) and hydraulic effect which places a bone graft and embed a dental implant at a maxillary sinus area where there is not sufficient bone to embed a dental implant. The method includes: removing mucoperiosteum having a size of an dental implant to be implanted at a alveolar crest area using a tissue punch, drilling a maxillary sinus floor easily and safely without causing damage to a maxillary sinus membrane by inserting a sinus lift drill which has a protruding member that is elastically installed in the body so as to protrude from and retract in the longitudinal direction of the body, elevating a maxillary sinus membrane by the hydraulic effect (injecting graft adjacent to the drilled maxillary sinus floor); and installing the implant in an inside portion of the drilled maxillary sinus floor.
US08083746B2
A system and method for performing an opening wedge osteotomy in a tibia, the system and method comprising (i) a positioning guide configured for aligning a portion of the positioning guide with a joint line of the tibia and for fixing the positioning guide to the tibia; (ii) a cutting guide configured to direct a cutting blade into the tibia so as to form a bone cut therein; (iii) a mechanical jack configured for placement into the bone cut in the tibia so as to distract the tibia at the bone cut; and (iv) a multi-part implant for supporting the open wedge osteotomy in the tibia, with a first component for disposition in a posterior portion of the open wedge osteotomy, a second component for disposition in an anterior portion of the open wedge osteotomy, and a connection device for selectively connecting the components to one another.
US08083716B2
Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to limiting a presence of air bubbles in a fluidic medium expelled from a reservoir. In various embodiments, a plunger head within a reservoir is shaped so as to limit a presence of air bubbles in a fluidic medium expelled from the reservoir. Also, in various embodiments, a reservoir is shaped so as to limit a presence of air bubbles in a fluidic medium expelled from the reservoir. In some embodiments, both a reservoir and a plunger head within the reservoir are shaped so as to limit a presence of air bubbles in a fluidic medium expelled from the reservoir.
US08083712B2
A flat-hose assembly has a proximal end and a distal end adapted for use with a negative pressure wound drainage system. The flat-hose assembly comprises a top layer, a bottom layer, and a filter layer. The bottom layer forms an opening at the distal end of the flat-hose assembly to allow exudates of a wound to flow into the flat-hose assembly. The filter layer is disposed between the top layer and the bottom layer. The top and bottom layer form a seal area along a periphery of the top layer and the bottom layer to seal the filter layer therebetween.
US08083701B2
A multi-centric orthopedic joint having inner and outer guide plates and upper and lower arms rotatably connected to the guide plates for pivotal movement therebetween. The plates each include upper and lower pairs of curved bean shaped slots, tilted relative to one another. The arms include a proximal end, the proximal end further including pins positioned and proportioned for complimental sliding movement within the upper and lower slots of the guide plates. Set screws are positioned between the inner and outer guide plate against a locking surface of the proximal end of each arm. When the set screws are loosened the upper and lower arms may be moved relative to one another, permitting the guide pins to slide within the slots but in opposite directions relative to one another. Flat-screws secure the inner and outer guide plates and co-act with the set screws as a locking mechanism of proximal ends of said arms at a desired angulation between them.
US08083700B2
A chair type massager includes a seat part on which a person to be treated sits on, a backrest part with a reclining mechanism to perform a raising/tilting operation, and right and left armrest parts in which the arms are inserted. The massager further includes air bags provided at the armrest parts, the air bags holding the arms placed in the armrest part by being swelled by air supplied from an air supply pump; a control part for controlling the raising/tilting operation of the backrest part and the air supply to the air bags; and a manipulation part for giving instructions to the control part. When controlling the reclining mechanism to tilt the backrest part in response to the instructions from the manipulation part to perform the arm stretch, the control part controls the air supply pump to supply air into the air bags intermittently.
US08083699B2
A chiropractic adjusting instrument comprising a housing; a thrust nose piece and an impact head to contact a body; a preload switch plunger; a dampening spring; a solenoid having a core; a preload spring; a recoil spring; an electronic pulse system operatively connected to a power source to provide alternating current for energizing the solenoid to impart impulse energy from the core to the thrust nose piece which is reproducible and independent of the power source; and a trigger system for triggering the electronic pulse system comprising an switch activated by the preload switch plunger. Preferably, the chiropractic adjusting instrument includes one or more of the following: an intelligent universal AC power converter; optimized force-time waveform; pulse mode operation; a sensing device having an sense output and a suite of electromechanical components designed to promote reproducible dynamic force impulses and safe operation.
US08083697B2
The present invention relates to a massage device. In one embodiment, the massage device includes a massage assembly and a transmission assembly having a threaded bolt transmission mechanism for driving the massage assembly to provide massage effects. The massage assembly includes a pair of massage members. Each massage member has a driving member having an eccentric wheel and an eccentric block, a massage bracket engaged with the driving member and a plurality of massage heads attached to the massage bracket.
US08083686B2
An embodiment of the invention includes a method for acquiring a plurality of tissue samples. The method includes using a device to cut a first tissue sample from an internal tissue tract of a patient and storing the first tissue sample in a container. Without removing the device from the patient, the method further includes using the device to cut a second tissue sample from the internal tissue tract and storing the tissues ample in the container. The method also includes coupling a fluid delivery device to the container to flush the first and second tissue samples from the container.
US08083682B2
This document discusses, among other things, systems and methods for determining sleep state, such as awake, sleeping, non-REM sleep, or REM sleep. Respiration and heart contractions are monitored. A cardio-respiratory ratio such as beats per breath is computed and used in the sleep state determination. Other information, such as heart rate variability (HRV), posture, and activity level can also be used in the sleep state determination. The sleep state information can be used to qualify or trigger storage of other physiological sensor data, or to permit remote sleep study monitoring of a subject, or to control or adjust one or more monitoring, diagnostic, or therapy algorithms, such as, for example a continuous positive airflow pressure (CPAP) device.
US08083677B2
An access disconnect sensor for a patient undergoing extracorporeal blood processing includes an electrochemical fuel cell or sensor to detect blood leakage. The fuel cell includes circuitry for oxidizing glucose in the blood. The sensor also includes a transmitter to send a signal to a remote receiver that the sensor indicates the presence of blood. The circuitry may include a battery or may use electricity generated by the sensor to send a signal indicating a leak of blood or disconnection of the access needle.
US08083673B2
An apparatus and method for an examination apparatus that includes a manually movable structure having a first movement from a free state to a compressed state and a second reversing movement from the compressed state to the free state. Also included is a plurality of fingers that are disposed adjacent to the structure. The fingers having a stowed state and an open state, the stowed state having a nested relationship between the fingers to reduce a silhouette profile size. In moving from the stowed state to the open state of the plurality of fingers requires a selected sequential movement of each the fingers to proceed from the nested relationship to the open state that is accommodated by an assemblage for moving the fingers sequentially utilizing the manually operated structure, wherein the fingers are moved from the stowed state to the open state and reversed manually.
US08083670B2
The present invention provides an endoscope comprising: an insertion unit which is to be inserted into a body; and a pipeline provided inside the insertion unit for supplying a fluid to a balloon mounted on an outer peripheral surface of the insertion unit, wherein the pipeline has a plurality of openings in an axial direction of the insertion unit on the outer peripheral surface of the insertion unit. Therefore, the endoscope of the present invention can easily fix a balloon and keep airtightness after the fixation, and can raise a degree of freedom of a mounting location of the balloon.
US08083668B2
A hemostatic clip assembly for mounting on a delivery device comprises a capsule and a clip slidably mounted within the capsule so that, when the clip is drawn proximally into the capsule, arms of the clip are drawn together to a closed position, an abutting surface of at least one of the arms contacting a corresponding surface of the capsule when the clip is drawn to a predetermined position within the capsule to provide a first user feedback indicating closure of the clip in combination with a tension member connected to the clip arms and biasing the clip arms toward an open, tissue receiving configuration and a yoke slidably received within the capsule and releasably coupled to the tension member, the yoke including a ball cavity for receiving a ball connector of a control element of the delivery device to maintain the clip assembly coupled to the delivery device, wherein the control element is frangible to detach the yoke from the delivery device and to provide a second user feedback and, wherein release of the yoke from the tension member provides a third user feedback.
US08083667B2
A surgical instrument is inserted through a guide tube. The surgical instrument exits at an intermediate position of the guide tube and is oriented to be substantially parallel to the guide tube's longitudinal axis as it exits. A stereoscopic image capture component is on the guide tube between the intermediate position and the guide tube's distal end. The image capture component's field of view is generally perpendicular to the guide tube's longitudinal axis. The guide tube is jointed to allow the image capture component to be moved. The surgical instruments and the guide tube are telemanipulatively controlled.
US08083651B2
An exercise machine includes a frame, a saddle, at least one crank arm, at least one pedal, a force measurement, an angle detector, a processor, and an adjustment mechanism. The saddle is connected to the frame. The crank arm is pivotally connected to the frame, and the pedal is pivotally connected to the crank arm. The force measurement measures a force applied to the crank arm, and the angle detector detects a crank arm angle. The processor is programmed to calculating a work value according to the force and the crank arm angle. The feedback mechanism returns the work value to a user.
US08083648B2
The invention relates to a rope spreading device for rope networks with tensioning ropes that converge at a top point of a support mast at an acute angle. It is an object of the invention to overcome the lack of play space, while making it also possible to vary the tension of the tensioning ropes. Accordingly, a rope spreading device is provided for rope networks with tensioning ropes that converge at a top point of a support mast at an acute angle, wherein the device is characterized in that at least one rope spreader is arranged between a tensioning rope and a support mast. The rope spreader changes the path of the tensioning rope so that a greater usable volume is created between the tensioning ropes and the central support mast, which can be used for climbing and play. Advantageously, the rope spreader may be used to vary the degree of spreading and the tension of the tensioning ropes.
US08083646B2
A universal athleticism rating system and related athletic performance measuring systems for accurately detecting and recording athletic performance are disclosed. The athleticism rating system evaluates individual athletes against a common, standardized set of athletic performance tests. Each athlete performs the athletic tests and his or her scores in the individual tests are entered into a standardized calculation to produce a single athletic performance score. The related performance measuring system is preferably a timing system that ensures quick, easy, and accurate collection of athletic event timing related data without the need for the athlete to wear any special detection devices or the like. In a preferred embodiment, the performance measuring system integrates with the rating system to provide seamless athletic data collection and rating of athletes.
US08083642B2
A transmission apparatus includes a wet rotary clutch configured to transmit power from an input to an output when in an engaged position, a clutch lubricator to supply a lubricating oil to the wet rotary clutch, a synchromesh configured to perform a meshing operation while the wet rotary clutch is in the disengaged position, and a controller configured to increase a revolution speed of the input of the wet rotary clutch before the synchromesh begins the meshing operation.
US08083635B2
A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, three planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes a sun gear member, a planet carrier member, and a ring gear member. The torque transmitting devices include five clutches and one brake arranged within a transmission housing.
US08083631B2
A planetary gear type gearbox includes a front-stage transmission section and rear-stage transmission section. The front-stage transmission section is for transmitting power from an input shaft to an intermediate shaft. The front-stage transmission section includes first, second and third clutches, two sets of planetary gear trains axially adjoining to each other. The first planetary gear train includes a sun gear, a carrier, a ring gear and planet gears. The second planetary gear train includes a sun gear, a carrier, a ring gear and two sets of planet gears. In the activation of second and third clutches, power is inputted into the carrier from the input shaft and is then outputted from the ring gear of the first planetary gear train.
US08083619B1
An apparatus and method for improving batting a baseball is provided. The apparatus includes at least one hollow tube and at least one substantially solid tube, both formed with openings at opposing ends. A handle is removably attachable to one end of the tubes. A plug is insertable into one opening in the tubes for eliminating bat deformation from ball-to-bat impacts. A cap is included in the other end of the tubes for controlling acoustics, thus providing a sound on ball-to-bat impact comparable to that of conventionally dimensioned wood bats. A grip knob is provided at one end of the handle for restraining hands during swinging. A compressible sleeve is slidably engageable with the handle for providing a hand grip. The apparatus and method for improving batting is used in combination with a training regimen to improve batting skills.
US08083611B2
A golf club head according to one or more aspects of the present invention may include a body comprising a front surface having an opening therein for receiving a primary insert. One or more secondary inserts may be disposed in the primary insert and may include a leading surface, a trailing surface, and at least one intermediate surface. The leading surface may be physically exposed to the elements, the trailing surface may be exposed to the eye, and the at least one intermediate surface may be physically exposed to the elements and/or visually exposed.
US08083610B2
A muscle-back iron golf club head includes a blade-like upper mass, a muscle-like lower mass, a planar front surface, a top surface, a sole surface, a heel surface, a toe surface, and a rear surface having a first contour. A recess is in the rear surface, the recess having a first portion in the blade-like upper mass and a second portion in the muscle-like lower mass. An insert may be provided in the recess, and such insert may substantially fill the recess and may include a back surface having a second contour which is different from the first contour of the club head rear surface.
US08083608B2
A golf club may have an orientation marker located on the golf club that indicates at least a relative orientation between the golf club head and shaft. The orientation marker may be located, for example, on the golf club head or shaft. A key member provides additional information with respect to the relative orientation between the golf club head and the shaft. The key member may be located, for example, on the golf club head, shaft, or grip portion, or on a head cover for the golf club head.
US08083604B2
A stroboscope is utilized as an input device of a golf game system (10), for example. The golf game system includes a game machine (12) as an information processing apparatus and a golf-club-shaped input device (14), and within a housing of the game machine, an imaging unit (28) is housed, and the imaging unit is provided with an image sensor (40) and an infrared-LED. By utilizing the infrared-LED, an infrared ray is intermittently emitted to a predetermined range of an upper portion of the imaging unit. Accordingly, the image sensor intermittently images a reflective body provided in the golf-club-shaped input device moving within the range. Such the stroboscope image processing of the reflective body enables calculation of a velocity, and so on as an input of the game machine.
US08083591B2
A network gaming service accesses attributes of a particular user to match the user to a gaming session with users having similar attributes. A game hosting service uses preferences of the users in a session and determines parameters for a match. Subsequent match parameters can be further determined based on a history for the session as well as each of the user's preferences.
US08083589B1
A portable sensor unit for capturing motion and/or other data may be securely mounted on objects such as a user's limb, a vehicle, or other items. The sensor unit may then collect motion and/or other data from the object to which it is affixed, and may provide this data to a data logger which stores the data. The data logger may subsequently communicate the data to a gaming system which may tailor the motion characteristics of a virtual object to resemble those of the real-world object from which the motion data was captured. Thus, a user can (for example) capture motion data from a vehicle, with this data being supplied to a video gaming unit which provides a virtual vehicle having the same acceleration/deceleration, handling, and other characteristics.
US08083586B2
A system for providing interoperability of electronic games independently-operable from one another includes a network entity and a client. The client can interact with the network entity to play a master electronic game using shared attributes otherwise configured for use in a subordinate electronic game, where the client can interpret the respective shared attributes for use during play of the master electronic game. During play of the master electronic game, the client can receive a selection of at least one subordinate game from within the master electronic game. In response, the client can initiate the selected subordinate game for play using shared attributes otherwise configured for use in the master electronic game and/or another subordinate electronic game. Similarly, the client can interpret the respective shared attributes for use during play of the selected subordinate game.
US08083577B2
Sports based computer game, e.g., football game, is played using data from actual games. Updates are received about new information from more recent games. Each game is divided into plays, and each play is characterized so that the play can be replayed on the game. Characteristics of the plays can be changed to simulate what is scenarios.
US08083576B2
A profiled ridge vent for tile roofs is provided having a vent strip located on each side of a roof ridge. Each vent strip includes a vent material, formed from a non-woven mat, including a first surface, contoured to a profile to match a profile of the tile roof, and a second surface. An upper water barrier is attached to the second surface of at least one of the vent strips and extends over the roof ridge. A water dam is attached to the first surface and extends in an up-slope direction toward the roof ridge. In use, a first vent strip is located on a first side of a roof ridge pole, and a second vent strip is located on a second side of the roof ridge pole. The upper water barriers of the first and second vent strips overlap one another at the ridge pole. Preferably, adhesive is provided on at least one of the upper water barriers so that the two water barriers are connected together. Alternatively, a single water barrier is provided which bridges the ridge pole and joins the first and second vent strips. Cap shingles which conceal the water barriers are connected to the ridge pole. Ends of the cap shingles rest on portions of the first and second vent strips.
US08083573B2
A rotary floor sanding machine has a vertically oriented bell housing with a backside floor support and a dust suction port for removing dust from within. The bell housing encloses the sides and backside of a disk casing and rotary sanding pad. The floor support is configured to place the floor contact area of the sanding pad forward of center. There is a lifting vane extending from proximate the floor contact area of the sanding pad in the direction of rotation towards the suction port in the bell housing to elevate dust particles to the higher velocity airflow near the suction port. There may be a shield for reducing the floor level opening between the back edge of the disk casing and the bell housing.
US08083571B2
A polishing apparatus has a polishing pad, a top ring for holding a semiconductor wafer, and a vertical movement mechanism operable to move the top ring in a vertical, direction. The polishing apparatus also has a distance measuring sensor operable to detect a position of the top ring when a lower surface of the top ring is brought into contact with the polishing pad, and a controller operable to calculate an optimal position of the top ring to polish the semiconductor wafer based on the position detected by the distance measuring sensor. The vertical movement mechanism includes a ball screw mechanism operable to move the top ring to the optimal position.
US08083567B2
A simulated eye includes an eyeball, a first winding mechanism with a spool, a first driving member, a second winding mechanism with a reel, a second driving member and a strip. The first driving member is configured for driving the first winding mechanism to rotate in a first direction and a second direction opposite to the first direction. The second driving member is configured for driving the second winding mechanism to rotate in the first direction and the second direction. The strip has two ends wound around the spool and the reel correspondingly. The strip is wound around the spool when the first driving member and the second driving member rotate the first winding mechanism and the second winding mechanism in the first direction correspondingly.
US08083559B1
The water board cover apparatus removably covers an existing water board so that the board can be towed behind a watercraft without the typical problem of the board's destruction. The apparatus has a top and a bottom, a front and a rear. The forward cover covers the nose of the water board. The tow loop is affixed to the front cover bottom. The bottom retainer covers the tail of the water board. The selectively connected strap assembly joins the forward cover to the bottom retainer. The bottom cover covers a part of the bottom of the water board. The bottom cover is connected to the forward cover bottom and the bottom retainer bottom.
US08083553B2
An electrical connector system includes a daughter card connector formed of a plurality of wafers. Each wafer is formed with cavities between the contacts of the signal conductors. The cavities are shaped to receive lossy inserts whereby crosstalk is reduced. The connector system may also or alternatively include a front housing formed with shield plates also to aid in reducing cross-talk. The front housing is adapted to mate between the wafers of the daughter card connector and a backplane connector of the electrical connector system. In an alternative embodiment, the front housing portion may include lossy conductive portions for cross-talk reduction.
US08083552B2
A probe pin includes a barrel having an internal space extending from one end to the other end, a plunger provided at the one end of the barrel, a plunger provided at the other end of the barrel, and a coil spring received in the barrel for supporting the plungers elastically. The coil spring includes a central portion having substantially same diameter, a first taper portion adjacent to one end of the central portion and having diameters decreased gradually, and a second taper portion adjacent to the other end of the central portion and having diameters decreased gradually.
US08083551B2
The invention relates to a plug-in connector (1), comprising a housing, a printed circuit board (2) and RF contacts (K1-K8), the RF contacts (K1-K8) being electrically connected to the printed circuit board (2), the RF contacts (K1-K8) being formed by an integral, flexible printed circuit board (4), from which the individual contacts (K1-K8) are cut free, the flexible printed circuit board (4) being prestressed by a spring-elastic element (6).
US08083546B2
An electric assembly includes a circuit board and an electric connector. The circuit board comprises a first surface and a second surface opposite thereto. The electric connector includes a metallic case, an insulating base, first leads and second leads. The insulating base is connected with the metallic case. The first leads are disposed on the insulating base and soldered to the first surface. The first leads includes a pair of first differential signal leads, a pair of second differential signal leads and a ground lead located between the pair of first differential signal leads and the pair of second differential signal leads. The second leads are disposed on the insulating base and soldered to the second surface. The second leads include a power lead, a second ground lead and a pair of third differential signal leads located between the power lead and the second ground lead.
US08083528B2
A connector includes a contact pin in which a free end projecting from a supporting member comes into contact with an electrode of a first object and a second object, and a bending part is provided onto a base end such that the connector has an inclination against the first object and the second object. The rigidity of the bending parts is selectively set to be high by selectively increasing a thickness of the bending part.
US08083526B2
A socket connector is provided for mating with a mating connector having a printed circuit. The socket connector includes a housing having a socket. The socket is configured to receive a mating edge of the printed circuit of the mating connector therein. Signal contacts are held by the housing. The signal contacts include mating interfaces arranged in a row within the socket of the housing. Electrically conductive ground shields are held by the housing. The ground shields extend from mating ends to mounting ends. The mating ends of the ground shields extend between adjacent signal contacts. The ground shields include shield slots extending into the mating ends. The shield slots of the ground shields are configured to receive the mating edge of the printed circuit of the mating connector therein to electrically connect the ground shields to the printed circuit.
US08083510B2
A machine for imprinting patterns onto uncured concrete in an elongated bed includes a frame for positioning the finishing machine over the bed. A lower patterning unit suspended from the frame is movable backward and forward of the concrete bed and a press assembly moves the pattern in and out of contact with uncured concrete on the elongated bed.
US08083503B2
A peristaltic pump assembly includes a pump body and a cassette removably attached thereto, wherein the cassette includes a race configured to provide a compression surface for a tube supported by the cassette. A roller assembly is operatively connected to the pump body, wherein the roller assembly includes a plurality of rollers configured to apply a predetermined force to the tube, thereby compressing the tube against the race. The peristaltic pump assembly further includes a regulator disposed in the pump body and operatively connected to the cassette, where the regulator is configured to regulate the predetermined force applied to the tube.
US08083500B1
An improved motor pump that enables the serviceability thereof, as well as improved clearance between components of the motor pump, the motor pump including a stator assembly, a rotor assembly having a front bearing for supporting a motor shaft and a bearing support member for receiving the front bearing, and a sleeve assembly including a sleeve. Both the bearing support member and the sleeve have respective pilot sections. An interface surface is defined between the bearing support member and the sleeve that includes an undulating surface with separate but multiple contact locations therebetween. The bearing support member is inserted into the sleeve so that the respective pilot sections engage to thus provide essentially a clearance-less fit therebetween.
US08083499B1
A hydraulic cylinder assembly for a fluid pump including a cylinder, a bearing attached to an approximate first end of the cylinder, a rod slideably mounted within the bearing, and a piston located about an end of the rod in the cylinder opposite the bearing. A central axis of the rod is offset from, and parallel to, a centerline of the cylinder to impede a rotation of the piston about the rod. The hydraulic cylinder assembly further including a hydraulic pump fluidly connected to the cylinder, the pump configured to provide a hydraulic pressure to the cylinder during an up-stroke of the piston and rod and the pump further configured to generate electricity on the down-stroke of the piston and rod.
US08083489B2
A hybrid fan blade for a gas turbine engine is provided that includes an airfoil and a composite panel. The airfoil has a first side and a second side orientated opposite the first side. The first and second sides extend between a tip, a base, a leading edge and a trailing edge. The airfoil includes a plurality of cavities disposed in the first side of the airfoil, which cavities extend inwardly toward the second side. The cavities collectively form an opening. At least one rib is disposed between the cavities. A shelf is disposed around the opening. The composite panel is attached to the shelf first mounting surface and to the rib, and is sized to enclose the opening. The first composite panel is a load bearing structure operable to transfer loads to the airfoil and receive loads from the airfoil.
US08083488B2
A rotor blade assembly is disclosed. The rotor blade assembly includes a rotor blade and a blade extension. The rotor blade has a pressure side, a suction side, a leading edge, and a trailing edge extending between a tip and a root. The rotor blade further has an aerodynamic profile. The blade extension is mounted to the rotor blade. The blade extension includes a cutaway mounting portion for mounting the blade extension to the rotor blade such that the blade extension is generally flush with at least one of the pressure side or the suction side of the rotor blade. The cutaway mounting portion defines a notch configured to locate the blade extension relative to the rotor blade.
US08083480B2
A cooling fan includes a fan housing (10) having a shaft seat (16) extending downwardly therefrom, a stator (20) being fixedly mounted around the shaft seat, a shaft (80) with a top end being fixedly connected to the shaft seat and a free end (82) extending downwardly therefrom, a rotor (30) comprising a hub (32) having a plurality of blades (34) extending radially and outwardly, and a sleeve bearing (40). A fixing tube (36) extends upwardly from a center of the hub. The fixing tube has a closed bottom end and defines a fixing hole (360) therein. The sleeve bearing is fixedly received in the fixing hole of the fixing tube to rotate with the rotor. A bearing hole is defined in the sleeve bearing for extension of the free end of the shaft therethrough.
US08083477B2
A centrifugal fan includes a plurality of blades, a casing and a tongue. The casing includes a base plate perpendicular to a rotation axis of the blades and a sidewall extending upwardly from the base plate. The base plate and the sidewall cooperatively define a space for receiving the blades therein. The sidewall defines an opening in one side for functioning as an air outlet. An air channel is defined between outmost ends of the blades and the sidewall. The tongue is detachably mounted to one end of the sidewall adjacent to the air outlet. The tongue includes a guiding surface protruding towards the outmost ends of the blades. The tongues is provided for lowering a noise level of the centrifugal fan during operation.
US08083470B2
A fan includes a frame, a motor and an impeller. The motor is disposed on the frame and coupled to the impeller to drive the impeller to rotate. The impeller includes a hub, a plurality of blades and an air exhausting structure. The hub has an opening formed on a top portion of the hub. The blades are disposed around the hub. The air exhausting structure is disposed in the opening for discharging hot airs generated by the motor out of the hub.
US08083465B2
A method of repairing a turbine exhaust case strut heat shield vane includes removing a damaged portion of the vane, solution heat treating the vane, attaching a replacement section to the vane, and relieving local stresses in an attachment area between the replacement section and the vane.
US08083456B2
A so-called transfer chamber in a semiconductor processing apparatus in which an FIMS system is secured is separated into a second chamber in which a transfer robot is disposed and a first chamber that is minute and includes a door capable of holding a cap of a pod as the FIMS system. In the second chamber, higher pressure than in the first chamber is maintained by a minute amount of nitrogen. In the first chamber, usually, a down flow of clean air is used via the FFU. When the wafer is transferred, a down flow of nitrogen is used. Thus, oxidation gas in the transfer chamber and released substances caused the FFU can be decreased.
US08083453B2
A screw which can be manufactured at a low cost with a relatively simple constitution by performing precise machining suitable for tightening a screw without employing a tapping thread structure as a threaded portion shape and machining only the distal end of the threaded portion to have a shape projecting spherically, and which can ensure smooth and quick screw tightening work without causing such problems as heat generation or molding powder at all at screw tightening. The screw includes a head (12) provided with a bit fitting groove (13) at one end, and a threaded portion (14) which is machined precisely with substantially equal circular diameter over a full length, wherein the distal end (20) of the threaded portion (14) is shaped to have a spherical projection varying in a plurality of stages.
US08083447B2
A chock strap retainer configured to be inserted in the reeling shaft or torque tube of a wheel chock to secure the chock strap to the reeling shaft or torque tube. When the chock strap is draped over the tire and tension is applied to the chock strap, the chock strap retainer provides that the chock strap remains securely affixed inside the torque tube. The chock strap retainer ensures that different sized and/or a different dimensioned chock straps remain securely affixed inside the torque tube of the wheel chock when the vehicle chock is employed.
US08083444B2
A method and apparatus are provided to machine a curved surface such as an inner or outer peripheral surface of a pipe. The pipe is held stationary during machining and a rotatable spindle of a machine head moves along multiple orthogonal axes to align the rotational axis of the spindle with the longitudinal pipe axis. Preferably, the pipe axis is located by using a touch probe to engage the curved surface at multiple spots and the calculating the location of the pipe axis. The cutting tool, which is preferably a cutting tool insert, is rotated by the spindle to machine the curved surface.
US08083438B2
A Mechanically Produced Thermocline Based Ocean Temperature Regulatory System to sequester carbon dioxide, create a cold water barrier to hurricanes and tropical storms, and ensure the function of the thermohaline circulation.
US08083437B2
An underwater trenching system is mountable on a side of a barge to be propelled by the barge along a waterway, the bed of which contains a trench with a laid pipeline. To remove the excess sediment from the trench the trenching unit delivers pressurized water and air to the trench. A sparge assembly with jet nozzles directs jets of water, breaking up the formation that has built up around the pipeline. The airlift assembly creates a turbulent flow to lift the disturbed sediment and remove it from the created trench.
US08083435B2
The present invention provides an apparatus for creating an outer surface effect of a structure wherein at least one wall of the structure defines a support surface, the apparatus comprising means defining a covering surface which overlies the support surface but is movable therefrom, so that a quantity of material to create the outer surface effect can be positioned between the support surface and the covering surface, and wherein the covering surface is in the form of a panel.
US08083430B2
A connecting assembly is disclosed. The connecting assembly comprises a shaft journal, a constant velocity universal joint and a threaded sleeve. The shaft journal is axially secured. The constant velocity universal joint has an inner joint part engaged by the shaft journal in a rotationally fixed way so as to transmit torque. The threaded sleeve is at least indirectly connected to the inner joint part so as to be axially secured and freely rotatable relative to the inner joint part. The threaded sleeve comprises a thread which is threaded on to a counter thread on the shaft journal so as to axially fix the inner joint part to the shaft journal.
US08083428B2
A device (1) for applying depilation wax, including a shell (2) open at the top and housing a heated reservoir (3) with an upper opening suitable for storing hot wax. A head is attached to the opening of the shell (2) and includes a runner moveable longitudinally with respect to the head, which holds a rotable roller (6) used to apply the wax stored in the reservoir (3). The runner has a mechanism (11) for holding the roller (6) that includes a swinging forked element (7) onto which the turning axle (12) of the roller (6) is held in an adjustable position and rotateable, it being possible to turn the forked element with respect to the runner in order to move the roller (6) in an essentially transverse direction with respect to the imaginary longitudinal axis (13) of the applicator.
US08083426B2
A liquid dispenser includes a hollow shank, a dispensing device longitudinally mounted to a first end of the hollow shank, a control device longitudinally mounted to a second end of the hollow shank and a sheath detachably mounted to the first end of the hollow shank for protecting the dispensing head after use. A passage is defined in the control device and communicating with an inner periphery of the hollow shank and the dispensing device such that the liquid contained in the hollow shank can flow into the dispensing device when the passage is opened. The control device is provided to selectively close/open the passage for controlling the output quantity of the liquid dispenser.
US08083425B2
A hand-held dispensing applicator comprising a source of fluid, a frangible applicator tip attached to the fluid source, and an absorbent member attached to the frangible applicator tip. When the frangible applicator tip is broken, fluid flows from the source to the absorbent member, whereby the fluid is applied and spread on a surface. Preferably, the frangible applicator tip comprises a support element permanently connected to the fluid source, a relatively rigid tongue element extending outwardly of the support element, and a frangible region there between. Preferably, the tongue element comprises ribs for reinforcing the tongue element to resist unintentional breaking of the frangible region. More preferably, the applicator tip comprises a semi-permeable or non-permeable cover disposed around the frangible region to control the speed and direction of the dispersion of the fluid in the absorbent member. Adaptive embodiments allow the generation of designs applicable to a particular medical purpose.
US08083417B2
An adaptor that mechanically and/or electrically adapts to and/or from an electrical connector that is integrated with an active cable at one end of an active optical cable, wherein the optical cable is configured to communicate over much of its length using one or more optical fibers. The cable may be an electrical to optical cable, and electrical to electrical cable, or one of many other potential configurations.
US08083415B2
Electrical connections from the printed circuit board (“PCB”) of an optoelectronic device through the front or line-side of the device enable a microcontroller or other component on the PCB to electrically communicate with an optical connector or other line-side device. The electrical connections can be integrated within a lead frame and trace structure providing mechanical support for the electrical connections and the PCB, with each electrical connection including a PCB-side contact and a line-side contact supported by the integrated structure. Alternately, the electrical connections can be integrated within one or more flex circuits. The optical connector can include traces and contacts configured to be electrically coupled to corresponding line-side contacts when the optical connector is received within the device.
US08083412B2
A method and apparatus for transporting bulk products is shown. At least one example of an apparatus for transporting bulk products as disclosed herein comprises the following: a liner having a top panel, a bottom panel, two sidewalls, a front panel, and a back panel; a first strap, wherein the first strap is partially attached to each of the sidewalls and to the back panel so that the first strap has a first pair of diagonal sections, said first pair of diagonal sections comprising a first diagonal section suspended between a first sidewall and the back panel and a second diagonal section suspended between a second sidewall and the back panel; and a second strap, wherein the second strap is partially attached to each of the sidewalls and to the back panel, wherein at least one overlapping region of the second strap overlaps an overlapping region of the first strap. The apparatus may further include a third strap that is partially attached to each of the sidewalls and to the back panel similar to the first strap and the second strap.
US08083406B2
Systems, methods, and other modalities are described for (a) obtaining an indication relating to an emission module (which may be dangerous, e.g.) or its user (who may be untrained, e.g.) and for (b) configuring the module or causing an irradiation (for imaging, e.g.) in response to the indication.
US08083389B2
A medical examination apparatus is provided. The examination apparatus includes an examination area in which an examinee is examined using an imaging device. The examination apparatus includes at least one planar lighting device emitting homogeneous light via its light radiating surface. The lighting device includes at least one light source by which at least part of the examination area and/or of the area peripheral to the examination area can be illuminated.
US08083386B2
An interior rearview mirror assembly includes a display device that includes a display screen and a plurality of illumination sources for backlighting the display screen. The display device is at least operable in (a) a first mode wherein the illumination sources are not activated so that the presence of the display device is substantially covert to a driver of the vehicle, (b) a second mode wherein the illumination sources are activated so that information displayed by the display screen is viewable by a driver of the vehicle, and (c) a third mode wherein (i) some of the illumination sources are activated so that information displayed by a corresponding backlit portion of the display screen is viewable by a driver of the vehicle and (ii) others of the illumination sources are non-activated so that the presence of a corresponding non-backlit portion of the display screen is substantially covert to the driver.
US08083383B2
An illumination device. A control circuit module is disposed in a first base. A second base is detachably connected to the first base. A heat-dissipation module is disposed in the second base and is electrically connected to the control circuit module. A first fastening ring fastens the first base with the second base. A third base is detachably connected to the second base. A light source module is disposed in the third base and is electrically connected to the heat-dissipation module. A second fastening ring fastens the second base with the third base.
US08083378B2
A display device for increasing brightness of an image generation, including a color cluster system, is provided. The system includes a first color LED cluster having at least a first LED of a first wavelength within a first color range and a second LED of a second different wavelength within the first color range. The light from the first LED may be combined at least partially with light from the second LED The system further comprises a second color LED cluster having at least a first LED of a first wavelength within a second color range and a second LED of a second different wavelength within the second color range. In the second color LED cluster, the light from the first LED may be combined at least partially with light from the second LED.
US08083368B2
A spot light includes a universal body, a light arrangement, and a spot light accessory. A spot light accessory having a plurality of accessory elements selectively and detachably coupling with the universal body to transform the universal body from one configuration to another configuration such that the type of spot light, the hand carry method, and even the supporting method of the floor stand are flexible depends on the customers needs.
US08083361B2
In an optical switch controller, in order that residual vibration at movement control of a movable body such as a tilt mirror can be reduced and controlled with high accuracy, a processing unit outputs a driving signal for controlling the angle of the tilt mirror, the driving signal is D/A converted by a D/A converter and then is changed to a high-voltage signal by a high-voltage amplifier to be supplied to the tilt mirror, the electrostatic capacity of the tilt mirror changes corresponding to angle change of the tilt mirror, a mirror-angle detecting unit detects the electrostatic capacity and feeds back it as a correction value to a processing unit, and the processing unit corrects the driving signal using a correction value obtained when the angle of the tilt mirror is actually changed.
US08083360B2
A hand held mirror includes a body having a first and second body portion. The second body portion is arranged at a variable angle of between 0 and 50 degrees from the plane of the first body portion. A convex mirror is attached to the underside of the second body portion such that when the hand-held mirror is attached to the body of the user and raised or tilted slightly, the user has a view of the activities behind the user. The hand-held mirror may be attached to a piece of clothing or other article worn by the user including a glove or strap worn around the hand or lower wrist of the user. In addition, the hand-held mirror may include an additional device such as a watch, temperature gauge, altimeter, cell phone, radio, GPS, heart rate monitor, mapping device or turn signal indicator.
US08083347B2
Electrospun fibers are utilized to improve the mechanical characteristics of a contact lens reducing the weight and mechanical strength of the polymers from which the lenses are typically formed. Electrospun fibers are also utilized as a drug delivery system, both through direct use in the eye and by inclusion of the fibers in a contact lens. The fibers are loaded with therapeutic drugs by a variety of methods and processed by coating and cross-linking the fibers.
US08083346B2
The present invention is directed to a non-deforming contact lens for keratoconus patients comprising a central zone having a displaced central zone. In particular, the central zone is displaced from the geometric center of the lens. The shape of the central zone is egg or spoon-shaped and is rotationally asymmetrical with one semi-meridian that is shorter than a corresponding semi-meridian. An intermediate transition zone is formed integral with the periphery of the central zone, and a peripheral zone is formed integral with the periphery of the intermediate transition zone, forming a round contact lens.
US08083343B2
According to an aspect of the invention and there is provided a recording material having an ink, ink absorbing particles that absorb the ink, and a curable liquid that cures the substantial surface of the ink absorbing particles.
US08083331B2
A piezoelectric actuator includes piezoelectric layers. Individual electrodes are formed on an outermost piezoelectric layer and arranged in a row extending along a first direction. Through holes are formed in the outermost piezoelectric layer and arranged substantially in a row extending in the first direction to contact with first end portions of the individual electrodes. The individual electrodes include at least one first individual electrode and at least one second individual electrode. The first individual electrode comprises a first electrode terminal provided at the first end portion, and the second individual electrode comprises a second electrode terminal provided at a second end portion opposite to the first end portion with respect to a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The second individual electrode has a thickened portion extending from the second electrode terminal towards the first end portion.
US08083320B2
Liquid ejecting apparatuses and image formed methods are provided. In an exemplary embodiment, a liquid ejecting apparatus is provided including a head unit, a movement mechanism, and a control section. The head unit has along a first direction a plurality of heads, in which a plurality of nozzles that eject a liquid onto a medium are lined up in the first direction, and the head unit forms a single raster line by ejecting the liquid while performing m number of movements relative to the medium in a second direction, which intersects the first direction. The movement mechanism causes the head unit to perform a plurality of movements relative to the medium alternately in the second direction and the first direction. The control section forms an image having a resolution that is n times a pitch of the nozzles.
US08083319B2
The recording head is formed with ejection holes including first ejection holes and second ejection holes arranged in a first direction. A recording medium has invisible columns extending in the first direction and invisible rows extending in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. The invisible columns have first invisible columns and second invisible columns alternately arranged in the second direction. The scanning unit performs a first scan and a second scan in the second direction. The controller prevents the recording head in the first scan from ejecting ink droplets from the first ejection holes onto the first invisible columns and from the second ejection holes onto the second invisible columns, and prevents the recording head in the second scan from ejecting ink droplets from the first ejection holes onto the second invisible columns and from the second ejection holes at the first invisible columns.
US08083312B2
A maintenance station of an inkjet printer mounted in a housing of the inkjet printer includes an ink cup rotationally and slidably coupled to the housing about/along an axis of rotation. The ink cup has a basic plate and a columnar rim around the basic plate. The columnar rim respectively defines a plurality of stopping ratchets and driving ratchets with the same gradient direction at a bottom and top thereof. A moving body is slidably disposed in the housing of the inkjet printer. An actuator movably disposed in the moving body moves together with the moving body, a tail of the actuator stretches out from the moving body for matching with the driving ratchets to rotate the ink cup. A plurality of housing ratchets are disposed in the housing of the inkjet printer and arranged into a ring for matching with the stopping ratchets to prevent the ink cup reversion.
US08083290B2
A car seat includes a seat assembly, a base assembly disposed under and coupled pivotally to the seat assembly, a positioning mechanism including first and second positioning units, and an elongated resilient component. The first positioning unit is mounted on the base assembly and includes a plurality of first engaging members. The second positioning unit is coupled pivotally to the seat assembly, and includes a second engaging member engaging releasably a selected one of the first engaging members so as to lock releasably the base assembly at a desired angular position relative to the seat assembly. The resilient component has two ends coupled pivotally and respectively to the base assembly and the second positioning unit, and exerts a downward pulling force to the base assembly when the second engaging member is disengaged from the selected first engaging member.
US08083283B2
An armrest is provided including a flexible skin overlying at least a portion of a substrate member, the skin coupled to substrate member, the flexible skin and the substrate member defining a cavity there between and an opening along one edge, and a foam bun insertable in the cavity to form the armrest, wherein the foam bun comprises a first foam portion which the flexible skin overlies and a second foam carrier portion which closes off the opening. The first foam portion has a hardness that is less than the hardness of said second foam carrier portion, the foam bun further including an integrally formed locking flange to engage with an edge of the substrate and an integrally formed skin lock to engage with an edge of the skin.
US08083281B2
A tonneau cover apparatus for securing a flexible cover about a cargo box of a pickup truck. The apparatus comprises the flexible cover and a support frame for attachment to the cargo box. The support frame has two opposing side rails, each of which have a lock engaging surface. The support frame further includes a pair of securing plate engagement members, each of which is secured to one of the respective opposing side rails. The apparatus further comprises a flexible cover securing plate attached to the cover and having first and second ends. The flexible cover securing plate includes a channel that extends between the respective ends. The flexible cover securing plate is engageable with the respective securing plate engagement members and additionally includes at least one locking member, preferably two locking members. Each locking member is slidably secured within the channel proximate one of the ends of the flexible cover securing plate and each respective locking member is engagable with the lock engaging surface of the respective opposing side rail such that the flexible cover securing plate is prevented from disengaging with respect to the respective side rail when it is in a first position.
US08083266B2
A gas riser apparatus, and methods for making and using a gas riser apparatus, utilize a swivel-nut having an annular collar section thereof which includes a radially outwardly opening annular groove therein adapted for swaged/crimped attachment to the remainder of the riser, at an above-ground end of the riser. For risers including a rigid metallic pipe section, the above-ground end of the pipe may be configured for swaged/crimped attachment to the annular collar of the swivel-nut through application of radially inwardly directed pressure on the above-ground end of the rigid riser pipe. For risers not having a rigid metallic section, a swage/crimp collar may be utilized for forming a connection between a flexible metal conduit and the swivel-nut, through application of radially inwardly directed pressure applied to the swage/crimp collar while the collar is disposed about the above-ground end of the flexible metal conduit.
US08083264B2
A document includes a paper substrate having an average surface roughness of at least about 0.5 microns, wherein the paper substrate includes encoded information printed thereon, and wherein the encoded information is printed with an ink comprised of light absorbing material that absorbs light only at wavelengths below 350 nm and an optional clear binder in a solvent. The encoded information is substantially not detectable to a naked human eye through differential gloss or exposure to light having wavelengths of 365 nm or more, and is only revealed upon exposing the document to light having a wavelength at which the light absorbing material absorbs light, which is less than 350 nm.
US08083258B2
A gas generator assembly for a motor vehicle is provided. The gas generator assembly having a gas generator which is designed to provide gas to inflate in airbag after the gas generator is activated, a filter for filtering gases provided by the gas generator and a device which is designed to release a fluid so that said fluid comes into contact with the filter. The device is designed to release the fluid at a point in time which can be pre-defined and which is independent of the point in time of the activation of the gas generator.
US08083249B2
The present invention provides a trailer coupler having an integrated locking device attached to the handle or the coupler body. The handle of the trailer coupler moves from a first position where the hitch ball is insertable to a second position where the hitch ball is prevented from insertion. The locking device having a locking pin that is insertable into the aperture of the handle to prevent movement of the handle from the second position to the first position.
US08083244B2
A front-axle bracket for motor vehicles has two accommodations spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal vehicle direction in each instance for the bearing locations for pivoting mounting of one of two wheel guide elements, in each instance, such as transverse control arms or A-arms, accommodations for attachment of the front-axle bracket as a pre-finished unit, together with pre-assembled assemblies, on the vehicle body, and at least individual ones of accommodations for attachment of the steering gear mechanism, for attachment of the stabilizer, and for mounting of a pendulum support. The front-axle bracket is produced as a component that is in one piece with these accommodations and connects them with one another.
US08083241B2
A skateboard kit for a skateboard having a skateboard deck and a skateboard truck is provided and includes an extension member structured to couple to the skateboard deck, with a first section of the extension member positionable at an original skateboard truck mounting position on the skateboard deck, and a second section of the extension member comprising a new skateboard truck mounting position, with the second section angled relative to the first section so that when the skateboard truck is coupled to the new skateboard truck mounting position on the second section, the skateboard truck is positioned at an angle relative to the original skateboard truck mounting position and also located at a different skateboard deck lengthwise location from the original skateboard truck mounting position.
US08083240B2
A stroller (1), movable between an open position wherein the stroller can be locked and a folded position, comprising: front wheels (6) and rear wheels (5); a generally planar base frame (2) extending substantially between said front and rear wheels; two push bars (3) pivotally connected to the base frame by a front hinge (4) substantially located near the front wheels, which push bars extend substantially upwards and backwards in the open position; wherein the axis of the front hinge extends substantially in the plane of the base frame and substantially intersects the central axes of the push bars.
US08083238B2
Embodiments of the present invention provide a lighting system for a sporting apparatus. In one embodiment, a sporting board apparatus includes an elongated board structure having top surface, a bottom surface, and edge surfaces. The sporting board apparatus further includes a light system having a plurality of light sources coupled to a power supply. In addition, the sporting board apparatus may include a switching mechanism to control the supply of electrical power from the power supply to the light sources, and a select mechanism to control one or more light programs.
US08083232B2
An apparatus and method for transporting substrate of media including a nip assembly having a drive wheel operably connected to a drive mechanism for rotating the drive wheel and an idler wheel disposed adjacent the drive wheel. The drive wheel and idler wheel forming a nip therebetween. The drive wheel and idler wheel being displaced from each other forming a nip gap, wherein the nip gap is present absent the presence of the substrate media in the nip.
US08083229B2
In a mailpiece feed device comprising a mailpiece-receiving deck through which motor-driven conveyor members pass and on which a stack of mailpieces stands, and a monitoring and control circuit for actuating said motor-driven members at a determined drive speed in order to enable said mailpieces to be extracted one-by-one downstream, there is provided a method of controlling said motor-driven conveyor members wherein the drive speed of said motor-driven conveyor members varies as a function of the weight of said stack of mailpieces standing on said mailpiece-receiving deck.
US08083228B2
According to aspects illustrated herein, a method, a system, and a printmaking device for performing closed loop lateral and skew control of a sheet is provided. The printmaking device includes a feed path, printing module, and sheet registration system. First, the feed path moves the sheet in a process direction past the lateral sensor. Next, the sheet is registered by measuring a lateral position of one side edge of the sheet at a fixed reference using the lateral sensor and determining a lateral position error of the sheet using the lateral position measurement. After that, a sheet angular velocity is calculated based on the lateral position error using the registration controller. Then, the lateral position error is corrected using the at least one pair of registration nips to adjust the sheet by applying the sheet angular velocity to the sheet.
US08083225B2
A banknote stacking apparatus includes a banknote stacking plate 1 on which banknotes are to be stacked, a first banknote press member 11 fixed to a support shaft 10 so as to be swingably together with the support shaft 10, a second banknote press member 15 which is formed of a synthetic resin sheet having flexibility, whose upstream end portion is fixed to the banknote stacking apparatus and whose downstream end portion is fixed to the first banknote press member 11 and a solenoid 27 for driving the first banknote press member 11 and the banknote stacking apparatus is constituted so that when a banknote is fed into the banknote stacking apparatus and the first banknote press member 11 is driven by the solenoid 27, the first banknote press member 11 is swung and presses a portion of a banknote close to the front end portion thereof and the second banknote press member 15 is swung together with the first banknote press member 11 and deformed so as to form a convex portion 15c projecting toward the banknote, whereby a portion of the banknote close to the rear end portion thereof is pressed by the convex portion 15c of the second banknote press member 15. According to the thus constituted banknote stacking apparatus, a banknote can be stacked on the banknote stacking plate 1 in the desired manner using a single drive means.
US08083223B2
The present invention provides a sheet conveying apparatus and an image forming apparatus which can obtain high operability and productivity when a tabbed sheet is conveyed. In the representative configuration thereof, a trailing edge regulation plate is abutted on tab portions of some of tabbed sheets stacked and supported on a tray to regulate the position of the tabbed sheet. Tab portion regulation portions of a tabbed sheet regulation unit provided at the upper end of the trailing edge regulation plate are abutted on the tab portion of the tabbed sheet formed in the position where the tab portion is not abutted on the regulation portion and regulate the position of the tabbed sheet. The tab portion regulation portions of the tabbed sheet regulation unit can be moved. The tab portion regulation portions are moved with the lifting of the tray when being abutted on the lifting tray.
US08083218B2
A sheet folding apparatus includes a fold unit to fold a center of a sheet bundle to form a fold line, a reinforce roller which reciprocates along a direction of the fold line while nipping and pressing the fold line and reinforces the fold line of the sheet bundle, and a control section to changeably set the number of times of reciprocating movement of the reinforce roller according to a thickness of a sheet contained in the sheet bundle.
US08083217B2
A Fluid-filled type vibration damping device, which is configured to be free from the necessity of supplying a continuous application of electricity to a coil so as to maintain a movable valve body in either an opened state or a closed state, is provided. The device includes a cam mechanism, which transmits a rotational drive force of a motor to the movable valve body in the form of a reciprocating drive force. In the device, a first rotation angle switch is connected to a first control switch in series relative to a motor coil, and a second rotation angle switch is connected to a second control switch in parallel relative to the first switch. The first rotation angle switch is turned on in a state of a first angular range θ1, and the second rotation angle switch is turned on in a third angular range θ3. When the first control switch and the second control switch receive the same control signal, they are brought into respective inverted ON/OFF states. The first angular range θ1 includes a fourth angular range θ4, which has an angle different from at least a third angular range θ3. The third angular range θ3 includes a second angular range θ2, which has an angle different from at least the first angular range θ1.
US08083209B2
A valve that includes a housing defining first and second bores having a central axis, and a peripheral valve seat. An actuator is located in the first bore and has a reciprocating seal disposed for movement along the central axis for engaging the valve seat and closing the valve. A coiled return spring is mounted in the housing for urging the reciprocating seal towards the chamber to open the valve, the return spring having a first end connected to the reciprocating seal and a second end engaging a spring support in the housing facing the first bore. The return spring may have a larger diameter at its second end than its first end. The housing may include a third bore in communication with the second bore and having a different cross-sectional area than the second bore. The return spring could be supported by a discrete spring support located in one of the bores.
US08083206B2
A solenoid actuator includes a hard guide piece and a soft flux piece. The hard guide piece has a stop surface ground to create a final air gap distance between the soft flux piece and a stator assembly when the stop surface on the guide piece is in contact with the stator assembly. The final air gap is set by grinding the stop surface on the guide piece so that the distance between the stop surface on the guide piece and a top surface on the soft flux piece along an axis of the guide bore is equal to the final air gap. The step of grinding the armature assembly may be done after attaching the guide piece and the flux piece together. In an exemplary embodiment, the step of grinding the stop surface and associated guide surface(s) are performed in a single chucking.
US08083201B2
Aspects of the present disclosure involve imaging equipment for viewing and/or monitoring substrates and components used to manufacture disposable absorbent articles as well as other types of articles and products. More particularly, the apparatuses and methods discussed herein relate to mounting, supporting, and aligning various types of vision systems, which may include a camera and a light source.
US08083195B2
There is provided a cradle device including: a connector to which electronic equipment is electrically and detachably connected; a support member having a support supporting a side of the electronic equipment connected to the connector and a brake provided integrally with the support; and a support member fixing mechanism supporting the support member to be movable closer to or away from the electronic equipment connected to the connector and holding the brake to prevent movement of the support member when an external force is applied to a certain region of the support.
US08083194B2
A latching mechanism capable of providing clamped retention to a vertical member, and a repositionable part support device and part support assembly employing said latching mechanism. The latching mechanism includes an enclosure having an open interior for receiving a vertical member and a pivotal handle that can be used to move a clamping roller out of contact with the vertical member during repositioning. A spring may be provided for otherwise biasing the clamping roller toward the vertical member. A support pin is located within the interior of the enclosure to engage a pin-receiving hole in the vertical member. The repositionable part support device and part support assembly may have a part support member that is affixed to and extends from said latching mechanism enclosure.
US08083190B1
An adjustment mechanism includes a limiting unit formed with a first channel and a second channel lying along first and second planes, a lower clamping unit having a U structure and being received within the first channel, a bottom seat unit disposed below and supporting the lower clamping unit from underneath, an upper clamping unit having inverted U structure and being received within the second channel such that the lower and upper clamping units are located at two opposite sides of the limiting unit with the first and second planes crossing each other perpendicularly. A top cover unit is disposed above and connected to the upper clamping unit. Adjusting position of the lower clamping unit and the limiting unit along the first plane and the upper clamping unit and the limiting unit along the second plane results in changing an angular position of the cover unit relative to the bottom seat unit.
US08083189B2
A bracket for screen expansion includes a first arm, and a second arm. The first arm includes a first main body extending horizontally. Two horizontally spaced first assembling holes are defined in the first main body. The second arm is horizontally rotatably mounted to the first arm. The second arm includes a second main body extending horizontally. Two horizontally spaced second assembling holes are defined in the second main body. The brackets, to achieve screen expansion may be connected to a number of displays.
US08083187B2
A cable duct coupler for coupling a first cable duct section to a second cable duct section without the need for tools, the cable duct coupler comprising a channel portion, a first outer guide element and a second outer guide element, a barb mount extending from at least one of the channel portion and the outer guide elements, and a barb having a body and first and second arms extending from the body, the barb being mounted on the barb mount, wherein at least a portion of the first arm extends at an angle between the first portion of the channel portion and the barb body and at least a portion of the second arm extends at an angle between the second portion of the channel portion and the barb body.
US08083185B2
An embodiment of an aircraft wing includes a main wing section and a variable incidence wing tip. The main wing section is adapted to connect to an aircraft fuselage at a first angle of incidence. The variable incidence wing tip is connected to the main wing section so that the variable incidence wing tip is rotatable to angles of incidence that are different from the first angle of incidence. An embodiment of a method for operating an aircraft includes generating a control signal based on an indication of a desired angle of incidence of a variable incidence wing tip, conveying the control signal to a wing tip rotation mechanism, and rotating the variable incidence wing tip in accordance with the control signal, so that the angle of incidence of the variable incidence wing tip is different from an angle of incidence of the main wing section.
US08083183B2
An air discharge device includes a grid that is connected to an aerodynamic surface of an aircraft. The grid includes a number of openings delimited by intermediate zones that are arranged in the extension of the aerodynamic surface of the aircraft and at least one longitudinal reinforcement separating the openings into at least two stages. The dimensions and/or the surface ratio of the perforated zones that correspond to openings and non-perforated zones that correspond to intermediate zones or to the longitudinal reinforcement are such that they create a depression close to the air discharge.
US08083177B2
A device for mounting a suspension member on the casing of a turbine engine is disclosed. The device includes a yoke with at least one lug, secured to the casing, a pin fixed to the yoke supporting the member via a ring surrounding the pin, and a rotation-prevention device that includes a counter-rotation plate attached to the lug. The plate and the pin include an assembly consisting of a peg and of a cutout or a hole, into which the peg fits in order to prevent the pin from rotating in the yoke.
US08083171B2
Method for configuring and operating an aircraft for minimizing sonic boom effects at ground level during supersonic flight of the aircraft. The method includes configuring an aircraft and flying the aircraft at supersonic speed so that in the supersonic flight, a lower profile of the aircraft is presented and generally groundwardly directed; and generating multiple different magnitude pressure disturbances below the aircraft, and radiating therebelow, and controlling the different magnitude pressure disturbances generated below the aircraft so that differentials thereamong are sufficiently minimized that ground level sonic boom effects are minimized during the supersonic flight.
US08083170B2
A towel dispenser includes a housing for receiving toweling. The housing includes a main body; a loading door that is configured to rotate relative to the main body between a closed position and an open position; and a guide system that includes a first roller attached to the main body and a second roller attached to the loading door. The towel dispenser may include a motor for driving dispensing of the toweling from the housing and an associated sensor. The towel dispenser can be mounted to an underside of a cabinet. In an aspect, the front wall of the main body and a lip of the loading door collectively define a gap to which the guiding system guides the toweling and through which towels are dispensed when the loading door is in the closed position.
US08083167B1
A portable leaf grinding device (PLGD 10) that is used to grind a substance such as a plurality of compacted leaves into a multiplicity of leaf particles. The PLGD (10) consists of a circular cap (12), a cone-shaped hollow structure (84) that is releaseably attached to the cap (12), and a container (102) that is also attached to the cap (12). The circular cap (12) has attached an upper grinding disk (42) having a plurality of downward-extending leaf grinding blades (58). The upper grinding disk (42) interacts with a lower grinding disk (62) which is attached to the structure (84) and which also includes a plurality of upward-extending grinding blades (72) and a plurality of bores (74). When the circular cap (12) is rotated, the blades on the two grinding disks (46,62) interact with each other to produce the multiplicity leaf particles. The leaf particles can be either stored in the container (102) for later use or used immediately as they exit from the structure (84).
US08083166B2
A roof shingle stripper, grinder, and blower includes: a motor to power the device; self-propelled wheels that move the device forward and urge the shingles into the device; a lifting blade that lifts up and dislodges the shingles from the roof; a shredder having two rows of grinding wheels that grind the shingles into pieces and blow the pieces into a conduit; and the conduit has a side wall that, when the wall is in a first position, diverts the pieces in a first direction, and when the wall is in a second position, diverts the pieces in a second direction.
US08083163B1
The present invention is a magnetic lifting attachment to the boom structure and hydraulic system of a demolition machine, which includes a demolition tool selected from the group consisting of shearing jaws and a concrete pulverizer, and a hydraulic actuator adapted to actuate the demolition tool, the magnetic lifting attachment is attached to the boom structure and features a magnet and a hydraulic actuator adapted to move the magnet between a stored position and an active position with respect to the demolition tool by simultaneous movement of at least one of the jaws.
US08083152B2
Identification documents employing laser-etched or -engraved features are detailed, together with methods for their manufacture. Tactile effects produced by the laser-processed features may be felt by touch, helping confirm the authenticity of such documents.
US08083151B2
A radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag includes a face stock and an RFID device. The face stock has a printable side and an inlay side, with the RFID device mounted to the inlay side. A layer of adhesive is coated on the inlay side of the face stock. A liner is releasably adhered to the layer of adhesive and includes a relief area that accommodates for defection of the RFID device. The accommodation of the thickness of the RFID device results in a tag that has a substantially uniform printable surface. Accordingly, when passing through a printer, the printable surface is maintained substantially flat or linear at the print head of the printer, thereby minimizing jamming and enhancing printability. A pinch roller for a printer also accommodates for deflection of the RFID tag by providing a deformable section along a length thereof the body that has a greater resiliency than the rest of the body. At the location of the RFID device, the layer of adhesive may also include a blank that is substantially free of adhesive for accommodating the RFID device.
US08083142B2
A method, computer program product, and target tracking system for obtaining a first kinematic state measurement of a first projectile detection event from a first sensor. The first kinematic state measurement includes a first time measurement and a first state vector. A second kinematic state measurement of a second projectile detection event is obtained from a second sensor. The second kinematic state measurement includes a second time measurement and a second state vector. If it is determined that at least a portion of the first kinematic state measurement and at least a portion of the second kinematic state measurement define at least a portion of a flight trajectory orbital ellipse, the first projectile detection event and the second projectile detection event are defined as portions of a flight trajectory of a single ballistic projectile.
US08083141B1
Systems and methods for performing a transaction with a headless point-of-sale or automated teller machine (ATM) device are disclosed. A card having a display and radio frequency (RF) communications module may be authenticated with a headless point-of-sale device using a short-range RF communications link. Transaction information may be provided to the display of the card from the headless point-of-sale device. A customer may confirm the transaction at the card using a touch-sensitive input area. The headless point-of-sale device may then provide the transaction information to a transaction processor for processing and verification. Where the headless device is a headless ATM, the card may be authenticated to the ATM and transaction information may be entered and displayed on the card. A cardholder may authenticate with the ATM by entering, e.g., a PIN number and funds may be dispensed to the cardholder upon verification of the PIN.
US08083133B2
Stored value cards, such as gift cards, from different card issuers are displayed for sale and activation at retail locations. A distribution database system maintains records of cards sold at the retail locations. The system accounts to each retailer for commissions owed for cards sold by that retailer, and accounts to each card issuer for its cards that are sold at each retail location.
US08083132B2
There is provided a check with additional data capture capability that in conjunction with a linked transaction card provides substantially complete coverage for card holders to conduct transactions with merchants for the payment of goods and services. The additional data capture capability enabling generation of a card statement with detailed information regarding purchases and expenditures of both check transactions and card transactions to thereby permit a card holder to accurately track, monitor, describe, and reconcile all transactions in a statement period. The check comprises first and second data entry location for identification and descriptive information about a financial transaction, account holder name adjacent to a drawer signature field and check limit adjacent to a written check amount field, as well as other check information and entry fields, including routing, account and check reference number, date, payee designation, numeric check amount and account holder and financial institution information.
US08083119B2
A surgical stapler is provided having a pair of jaws including a staple containing cartridge and an anvil. Buttress material is releasable affixed to the staple containing cartridge and the anvil. One of the jaws includes a pair of longitudinal projections at a first end of the jaw and configured to frictionally engage corresponding slots in a first end the buttress material. One of the jaws includes a post at a second end of the jaw. The buttress material includes a hole in a second end of the buttress material for receipt of the post.
US08083112B2
A positioning assembly for a bicycle lock has a positioning frame, a turning connector and a linking element. The positioning frame is detachably mounted on a bicycle and has a mounting segment and a controlling segment. The controlling segment is mounted on the mounting segment and has a base and two pressing devices. The base has two mounting recesses. The pressing devices are movably and respectively mounted in the mounting recesses of the base. The turning connector is pivotally and detachably connected to the positioning frame and has a pivotal segment and a linking segment. The pivotal segment has two engaging elements mounted in the mounting recesses of the base to engage the pressing devices. The linking segment is formed with the pivotal segment and has an inserting hole. The linking element is detachably connected to inserting hole of the turning connector.
US08083105B2
A flexible fluid delivery system comprising a fluid bladder having a first inlet and a first outlet, the fluid bladder configured to contain liquid, an inflatable compartment capable of being pressurized by inflation and having a second inlet, the inflatable component being formed adjacent to the fluid bladder, such that the fluid bladder and the inflatable component are integrated to form a pressurized fluid reservoir, a seam element formed in the fluid bladder and the inflatable component of the pressurized fluid reservoir, the seam element being capable of controlling the shape of the pressurized fluid reservoir, a pump associated with the second inlet of the inflatable compartment, the pump being configured to inflate the inflatable component of the pressurized fluid reservoir, and a valve operatively coupled to the first outlet of the fluid bladder, the valve being capable of releasing the liquid contained in the fluid bladder.
US08083095B2
An easily closable and open able container system includes a number of features which facilitate easy opening and closing while maintaining a high seal, which will give a feedback to the user to let the user know that a seal is formed. A circumferentially inwardly disposed angled groove is formed on the inside the opening of a container. A complementary angled projection is formed on the circumferentially outwardly disposed surface of the lid for fitting into the circumferentially inwardly disposed angled groove formed on the inside the opening of a container.
US08083093B2
A container has a base with a bottom wall rib structure which deforms downwardly when an unresisted load is applied. The rib structure stiffens the base, and also can elevate the food product from liquid within the container. The bottom wall has a central platform which extends upwardly from a lower encircling segment. The lower encircling segment marks the lowermost portion of the base as molded, and extends inwardly from the lower margin of the sidewall. Two generally parallel longitudinal ribs extend across the platform and project upwardly from the platform. The longitudinal ribs extend from the lower encircling segment at the front of the base to the rear of the base. Short bridging ribs are evenly spaced parallel to one another and extend laterally between and connect the two longitudinal ribs. A plurality of cross ribs extend outwardly from each longitudinal rib to the encircling segment.
US08083091B2
An improved gardening waste receptacle has an open top and presents an opening with square corners. The receptacle opening has an arced strip along one side of the rim on the interior for retaining scooped material, and a non-deformable strip extending along the same side of the rim on the exterior, and extending along the adjacent sides of the rim of the receptacle to prevent the opening from deforming when heated and put under pressure. Two handle means are disposed on the side of the receptacle opposite the strips; one handle, a recessed handle disposed into the lower portion of the wall of the receptacle, and another handle extending outward from the top of the wall. The outward extending handle presents a dowel that turns in position for ease of lifting and carrying.
US08083087B2
A pressure vessel includes a lid being rotatable into an unlocked position by a first actuator and then raised vertically above its housing by a second actuator secured along the housing. A pressure safety latch is provided to both vent the vessel before the Hd is moved into its unlocked position and release the lid for unlocking rotatable movement.
US08083083B1
An adaptable bulk material container system comprising a hopper having an interior for receiving the bulk material and an upper opening and a lower opening. The hopper comprises an upper portion defining an upper portion of the interior and including an upper perimeter wall about the interior. The hopper also includes a lower portion defining a lower portion of the interior and being positioned below the upper portion. The system also includes an adaptable base supporting the hopper, with the hopper being mounted on the adaptable base. The base comprises a support frame mounted on the hopper and extending downwardly from the hopper, with the support frame forming a perimeter about the lower portion of the hopper. The base also includes a support flange mounted on the support frame and extending outwardly from the support frame and having an outer perimeter surface.
US08083073B1
The loader bucket sieve apparatus is clamped between the jaws of the bucket of a bucket loader or the like, without tools or fasteners. Importantly, as the apparatus rests upon a given surface, the loader operator need only place the jaws of the bucket in the appropriate positions and then clamp the jaws together, reversing said procedure when wishing to disengage the apparatus. The apparatus may have straight supports or concave supports, depending upon need and bucket application. The sieves may extend beyond each side of the supports at each side of the apparatus in order to increase work surface beyond the bounds of the jaws. The sieves may be equidistantly spaced and may also be unequally spaced apart. Sieves may be disposed within all the holes or part of the holes of the supports.
US08083069B2
The present application discloses a process for the high throughput separation of at least one distinct biological material from a sample using magnetic tags and a magnetic separation set up capable of processing at least about 106 units/second. A magnetic field gradient is used to deflect target material bearing a magnet tag from one laminar flow stream to another so that the magnetically tagged target material exits a separation chamber via a different outlet than the rest of the sample. The process is applicable to isolating several distinct biological materials by directing each via magnetic deflection to its own unique outlet. The application also discloses a system for performing the process and a kit that includes the system and the magnetic tags.
US08083063B2
A reticle POD, comprising a top cover, a bottom cover, and a plurality of supporting components deployed in the four corners of the bottom cover, the supporting component comprising: a base body perpendicularly assembled, on two sides of which being disposed with mounting blocks; a pair of elastic elements respectively placed on the base body; a pair of leading elements connecting respectively to the horizontal extension of the elastic elements and then extending lengthwise to form a tip, a first bevel and a second bevel being formed on the side of the tip located on the inner side of the base body; a supporting base plate, the first and the second ends of which being connected to the second bevel of the leading element and a supporting pillar being disposed on the third end of the supporting base plate.
US08083058B2
A consumer product package having a tub with a base and a perimeter wall defining a cavity in communication with an opening that extends through the perimeter wall. A consumer product is disposed within the cavity and a stabilizing insert is at least partially disposed within the cavity. The stabilizing insert has a retaining member removably secured the consumer product and a support member with a foot extending through the opening of the perimeter wall to facilitate positioning the tub in a substantially upright position.
US08083057B2
A screw feeder includes a magazine configured to store a plurality of screws arranged along a single line, and a magazine table configured to support the magazine. A pair of rail members slidably support head portions of the screws. A spacer is sandwiched and fixed between the rail members. Threaded portions of the screws are accommodated in a slot formed by the spacer being sandwiched between the rail members. The rail members and the spacer are detachably attached to each other.
US08083044B2
A clutch actuator (6), as well as a method for operating a clutch (3), between the drive motor and the transmission (1) of a motor vehicle. The clutch actuator includes a cylinder with a piston (14) and an actuator (15), such that a clutch release bearing (4), arranged co-axially to the central axis of the clutch, may be operated to apply an axial pre-tensioning force on the clutch release bearing and conduct an operating medium into the clutch actuator for axially displacing the piston and/or the clutch release bearing. To simplify a clutch actuator of this type and enhance its utilization, the clutch actuator is configured and used for generating the pre-tensioning force.
US08083040B2
A zipper for a luggage includes a first tape, a second tape and interlockable teeth. The first tape has a shielding section for covering an end edge of a first half shell of the luggage, and a mounting section and an extension section connected with the shielding section respectively. The second tape has a shielding section for covering an end edge of a second half shell of the luggage, and a mounting section and an extension section connected with the shielding section of the second tape respectively. The teeth are mounted on the extension sections of the first and second tapes in two rows. By means of using the zipper in production of the luggage, the process of making the luggage can be simplified and the zipper can be well aligned with the half shells of the luggage, enhancing the yield rate in production of the luggage.
US08083038B2
A spring loaded spacer for fastening components and control units together with touch control face plates or panels wherein the spacer has a shank portion nested in a barrel portion, one end of the barrel portion being connected to a chassis or the like and its shank portion being connected to one or more printed circuit boards and/or components, and wherein the shank portion is spring loaded within the barrel portion and is adapted to receive one or more printed circuit boards and/or components under tensioned engagement.
US08083029B2
The present invention relates to a device for enabling access to a structure above ground level by lowering and/or lifting the device in relation to the structure, the device comprising a first endless frame structure defining an opening, wherein at least part of the first endless frame structure forms a track portion, the track portion being adapted to guide an, in relation to the track portion, movable object, such as a gondola, along the track portion. The device may further comprise a second endless frame structure defining an opening, the second endless frame structure being aligned with the first endless frame structure.
US08083021B2
Method for operating a steering system for a motor vehicle with at least one steerable wheel, a servo drive and a superimposed gear mechanism, the steering movement, initiated by the driver of the vehicle, and the movement for producing the steering movement of the steerable wheel, initiated by the servo drive for realizing useful functions (VSR, LAFN) being superimposed by the superimposed gear mechanism into a pinion angle, the servo drive for initiating the movement being triggered by a control signal (δMd) of a control device. The servo drive is turned back in a controlled manner when a substitute mode of at least one useful function (VSR, LAFN) of the steering system is switched off or on.
US08083018B2
Provided is a rear swinging fork (1) for a motorcycle, die-cast in one piece and featuring two longitudinal extending supporting arms (2, 3) each having three supporting walls (6, 7, 8), and a transverse cross member (4) connecting the supporting arms (2, 3). Each of the supporting arms (2, 3) has a mount for pivotal location of the rear swinging fork (1) on a motorcycle frame, and includes in the region of the ends of the supporting arms, opposite the mounts (5), a wheel mount (11) for the rear wheel of the motorcycle. The portion of the fork between the cross member (4) and the mounts (5) is openly configured, and the supporting arms (2, 3) feature in a section transverse to the longitudinal direction of the rear swinging fork (1) an upper supporting wall (6), a lower supporting wall (7), and an inboard supporting wall (8) connecting the upper (6) and lower supporting wall (7) and located in the longitudinal direction of the rear swinging fork (1), with a cavity (16) formed between the supporting walls.
US08083014B1
In a first aspect, the invention is directed to an undercarriage for a tracked vehicle. The undercarriage includes a main frame including a frame body and an equalizer bar extending laterally on either side of a pivot connection with the frame body, a first track frame and a second track frame. A first front spherical bearing connects a first end of the equalizer bar and the front end of the first track frame. A second front spherical bearing connects a second end of the equalizer bar and the front end of the second track frame. A first rear spherical bearing connects the rear end of the main frame to the rear end of the first track frame. A second rear spherical bearing connects the rear end of the main frame to the rear end of the second track frame. The spherical bearings between the rear end of the main frame and the rear ends of the track frames permit the rear ends of the track frames to accommodate the arcuate movement of the front ends of the track frames as the equalizer bar pivots about its pivot connection when the vehicle travels over uneven terrain. The spherical bearings further on both the front and the rear of the vehicle also permit the tracks of the vehicle to more fully contact the ground when the ground is not perfectly flat. An example of such a situation may be when the vehicle travels on a road which is crowned.
US08083013B2
Examples and implementations of various robotic mechanisms, devices, components, systems and techniques are provided, including multimodal robotic devices and systems. For example, a multimodal robot can be configured to autonomously reconfigure between two or more primary modes of operation. Such robots may be used in a wide range of applications, including reconnaissance, exploration, search and rescue, military, sports, personal assistance, education, and entertainment and toys. Described examples of multimodal robots can be wheeled robots that use two or more drive wheels to perform various motions and operations.
US08083012B2
Diamond bonded constructions comprise a polycrystalline diamond body having a matrix phase of bonded-together diamond grains and a plurality of interstitial regions between the diamond grains including a catalyst material used to form the diamond body disposed within the interstitial regions. A sintered thermally stable diamond element is disposed within and bonded to the diamond body, and is configured and positioned to form part of a working surface. The thermally stable diamond element is bonded to the polycrystalline diamond body, and a substrate is bonded to the polycrystalline diamond body. The thermally stable diamond element comprises a plurality of bonded-together diamond grains and interstitial regions, wherein the interstitial regions are substantially free of a catalyst material used to make or sinter the thermally stable diamond element. A barrier material may be disposed over or infiltrated into one or more surfaces of the thermally stable diamond element.
US08083006B2
A hand-held power tool, in particular an electrical hand-held power tool (1), includes a drive motor (4), a tool shaft (14), and a first overload clutch (19) for limiting the maximum torque that acts on the tool shaft (14). Preferably, the hand-held power tool also includes a second overload clutch (20).
US08083005B1
A land leveling device for leveling uneven surfaces. The land leveling device generally includes a frame adapted to be removably attached to a tractor. The frame will generally include a rear support, a first side support extending in a forward direction from a first end of the rear support and a second side support extending parallel to the first side support from a second end of the rear support. A central rod will preferably extend forward from a central point on the rear support parallel to and between the first side support and second side support. A pair of leveling members are each fixedly attached to the side supports at their respective ends and pivotally attached to the central rod. As the land leveling device passes over terrain, the leveling members automatically pivot about the central rod to adjust for uneven surfaces.
US08082999B2
A tool assembly is provided. The tool assembly comprises a drilling deflector and a completion deflector, the completion deflector coupled to the drilling deflector.
US08082994B2
Methods of enhancing the conductivity of fractures in subterranean formations comprising: providing a propped fracture in a subterranean formation wherein a plurality of proppant particulates reside in at least a portion of the fracture; providing a displacement fluid; introducing the displacement fluid into the propped fracture in the subterranean formation at a rate that is at least the matrix rate of the subterranean formation; and allowing the displacement fluid to displace at least a portion of the plurality of proppant particulates, thereby forming at least one channel in the propped fracture.
US08082992B2
Methods including the steps of selecting a target fracture geometry for a portion of a subterranean formation; selecting a target tip pressure and a target back flow pressure based at least in part on a calculation for the target fracture geometry; selecting a target surface pressure and a target bottom-hole pressure based at least in part on a calculation for the target tip pressure and the target back flow pressure; and introducing a slurry fluid comprising proppant particulates into one or more fractures in the portion of the subterranean formation. The surface pressure corresponds to the target surface pressure, and bottom-hole pressure corresponds to the target bottom-hole pressure.
US08082980B2
A cutting tool for cutting a wireline, slickline, coiled tubing, or other well access line stuck downhole in a well. The tool includes a host of features including a propulsion mechanism to aid in delivering the tool to a predetermined cut location of the line. In this manner, the risk of unintended uphole cutting of the line may be minimized.
US08082973B2
A method for core pulling and insertion in synchronization with the opening and closing of the mold in a cavity including a fixing half and a moving half, or a fixing half, a moving half and several cavity plates installed between fixing half and moving half as well as the core moving reciprocally inside the cavity, wherein a downward movement of a transmission gear is coupled with an opening of the mold, synchronous with a pulling of the core out of the cavity, and an upward movement of the transmission gear is coupled with a closing of the mold, synchronous with an insertion of the core into the cavity.
US08082965B2
A rubber sheet joining apparatus includes a cutting unit for cutting a ribbon of rubber sheet reinforced with cords to generate rubber sheet strips having different lengths; a sheet overlapping unit for overlapping and joining the rubber sheet strips having different lengths to make an overlapped and joined strip. First holding members hold a front end portion of a following overlapped and joined strip. Second holding members hold a rear end portion of a preceding overlapped and joined strip. Support guides movably support the first holding members relative to the second holding members. An operating unit moves the first holding members relative to the second holding members to butt-join the side surfaces of two successive overlapped and joins strips held respectively by the first holding members and the second holding members to generate a ply sheet.
US08082960B2
A method and a system for classifying a plurality of random length boards of random grade, using a conveyer provided with reading units to read both the length and the grade of each board at a first end of said conveyer; a processor, receiving length and grade data from the reading units; calculating combinations of board lengths and grades and selecting a preferred combination of boards from the combinations; and a distribution section, located at a second end of the conveyer, and operated by the processor according to the preferred combination; the processor being fed with a large number of identified boards, from which to calculate the combinations of board lengths and grades, before they reach the distribution section.
US08082957B2
A device (1) for containing and dispensing tablets, wherein vial bottles (3) filled with tablets wait in waiting spaces (701a, b, c) and the vial bottles (3) are taken out from the waiting spaces (701a, b, c). A plurality of pairs of holding members (703a, b) facing each other for holding the bodies of the vial bottles (3) are installed in the waiting spaces (701a, b, c). Also, stock sensors (710) in the same quantity as the pair of holding members (703a, b) are installed to check for each pair of holding members whether a vial bottle is held on the pair of holding members (703a, b) or not.
US08082955B2
A curtain nozzle is located above an opening portion (10) in a FIMS. A gas curtain formed of inert gas for closing the opening portion is formed. A cover is so provided as to cover a part of the curtain nozzle so as to prevent peripheral gas around an opening of the curtain nozzle from being involved in the gas curtain of the inert gas emitted from the curtain nozzle.
US08082950B2
A tube connector for connecting a fluid supplying device to a tube for supplying the fluid from the fluid supplying device to the tube is provided, which comprises: a connector body comprising a penetration hole that is formed therein, a mounting portion for connecting the fluid supplying device thereto, and a tube connecting portion for connecting the tube thereto; a connecting unit disposed within the penetration hole for connecting the tube to the connector body; a valve unit disposed inside the penetration hole for controlling inflow of the fluid supplied from the fluid supplying device; a spacer having one end that contacts the tube inserted into the penetration hole within the penetration hole so as to operate the valve unit, and the other end that forms a passage between the other end and the valve unit; and a pressure control unit that is disposed between the valve unit and the spacer for controlling flow from the fluid supplying device in a predetermined pressure range.
US08082939B2
A dry gas seal leakage recovery system is provided which collects seal leakage gas from one or more mechanical seal assemblies, pressurizing and controlling the outlet distribution pressure of the collected seal leakage, and re-injecting the gas back into the compressor or seal supply system.
US08082935B2
A connector is provided for connecting a first portion of a shade structure to a second portion of the structure. The connector can have a first end that can be mechanically coupled with the first portion and a second end that can be mechanically coupled with the second portion of the structure. The second end can have a reinforced portion and an engagement member that extends from the reinforced portion to be movable into and out of the reinforced portion. The engagement member can move between first and second positions to engage or disengage with the second portion of the shade structure.
US08082932B2
A centrifugal workpiece processor for processing semiconductor wafers and similar workpieces includes a head which holds and spins the workpiece. The head includes a rotor having a gas system. Gas is sprayed or jetted from inlets in the rotor to create a rotational gas flow. The rotational gas flow causes pressure conditions which hold the edges of a first side of the workpiece against contact pins on the rotor. The rotor and the workpiece rotate together. Guide pins adjacent to a perimeter may help to align the workpiece with the rotor. The rotor may have cylindrical side walls joined to a top plate, and with the gas inlets located in the cylindrical sidewalls. The head is moveable into engagement with a bowl. Spray nozzles in the bowl spray a process liquid onto the second side of the workpiece, as the workpiece is spinning, to process the workpiece.
US08082915B2
According to embodiments of the present invention, a pellet stove includes a firepot assembly with a bottom plate slideable along rails to move between a closed position during combustion in the firepot and an open position during ash removal. According to other embodiments, a firebox or combustion enclosure includes a plurality of airfoils formed on the inner and outer surfaces of the enclosure to facilitate heat exchange between exhaust gases flowing across the inner surface of the enclosure and air blown across the outer surface of the enclosure. According to some embodiments, the airfoils and enclosure are of integral unibody construction. According to yet other embodiments, a user sets parameters via a wall control unit, and a stove control unit receives the parameters and automatically controls fuel feed rate, ignition, convection blower, combustion blower, and/or firepot cleaning based on the one or more parameters.
US08082914B2
A portable and easy-to-clean kitchen stove includes a tabletop and supports, the tabletop being provided thereon with circular burner openings, beneath which burners are installed as well as chimney-shaped thermo-protective devices and pan adapters are arranged in turn, the burner openings being circumferentially welded with baffle rings, the tabletop being fixedly connected at the edge thereof with rims and flexibly connected at the edge thereof with a shield in turn, a drainage being disposed in front of the burner openings, the ends thereof being provided with a separator, a platen being disposed between the drainage and the front edge of the tabletop, beneath which sockets for assembling and disassembling the supports are arranged. This enables the kitchen stove to be simply structured, foldably carried, sanitary, quickly assembled and suitable for use at home and outdoors.
US08082910B1
A pulley assembly for a compound archery bow comprises a set of multiple power cable pulleys and a draw cable pulley. The draw cable pulley is arranged to be rotatably mounted on a bow limb, to let out the draw cable when the bow is drawn, and so as to have interchangeably mounted thereon any one of the multiple power cable pulleys. Each power cable pulley is arranged to take up the power cable when the bow is drawn. At least one of the power cable pulleys is arranged so as to result in substantially negligible let-off of draw force of the bow. At least one other of the power cable pulleys is arranged so as to result in substantial let-off of the draw force of the bow at a corresponding draw length.
US08082898B2
A resonator is provided with a neck portion and a resonator main body. The resonator main body includes a main volume chamber communicated with an air intake duct of an internal combustion engine for a vehicle via the neck portion, and at least one sub-volume chamber directly connected to the main volume chamber. The resonator main body is configured to have both a Helmholtz-resonator functional part whose resonance frequency is determined based on a total volumetric capacity of the resonator main body, substantially corresponding to a summed value of a volume of the main volume chamber and a volume of the sub-volume chamber, and a side-branch-resonator functional part whose resonance frequency is determined based on a longitudinal length of the sub-volume chamber.
US08082896B2
A switchable support element for a valve train of an internal combustion engine, comprising a housing that can be arranged with an outer peripheral wall in a reception of the internal combustion engine, an axially displaceable pressure piston extending in a bore of the housing, said pressure piston being loaded by a lost motion spring means in a direction leading out of the housing, a head of the pressure piston extending beyond an edge of the housing, and at least one coupling piston extending in a cross-bore of the pressure piston, which can be brought partially into engagement with an entraining surface of the housing for achieving coupling, wherein, starting from an outer front end of the at least one coupling piston, a flattened portion is arranged on an underside of the coupling piston wherein a flattened portion is arranged on an underside of the coupling piston, the entraining surface in the housing per coupling piston is constituted by an underside of a window-like aperture in the bore of the housing, on which underside the at least one coupling piston can be displaced with said flattened portion for achieving coupling, and the pressure piston comprises an anti-rotation device relative to the housing, while the at least one coupling piston comprises an anti-rotation device relative to the cross-bore.
US08082892B2
The present invention is a second kind of High Efficiency Integrated Heat Engine, or HEIHE-2 for short. HEIHE-2 is a reciprocal combustion engine integrated with both compound cycle and combined cycle. HEIHE-2 comprises triple compound cylinder structure, with the first cylinder and the second cylinder being the primary combustion and/or expansion cylinders; and the third cylinder being the secondary combustion and/or expansion cylinder. Power strokes driven by expansions of different working fluids such as air-fuel combustion products, steam and compressed air, are integrated into one engine block. Triple cylinder structure provides compound expansions of three (3) different fluids as to recover the energies that would be lost with the exhaust fluids or during braking. All of these make HEIHE-2 work around four (4) periods with six (6) different operation strokes. All four (4) working periods contain four (4) different power strokes but only two (2) of them consume the fuel. Thus the fuel conversion efficiency could be greatly increased, or even be doubled comparing with the conventional internal combustion engine (ICE).
US08082884B2
An edible bird's nests production facility comprising of: a wholly man made artificial caves system and/or converted natural relief such as caves, valleys, cliffs forming the nesting habitat and associated supporting facilities configured to breed swiftlets for their nests by means of a captive breeding program for swiftlets; commercialized-scientific farming methods; specialized apparatus, mechanisms and techniques; managed sustainable harvesting of nests; provision of a safe and secure nesting habitat and a conducive environment to maximize avian population by minimizing mortality rates; safe collection of nests by means of mechanized lifting systems and specialist mountaineering equipment.
US08082883B2
A pet food elevating device having a food platform and wheels coupled to the food platform with a vertical track positioned to slidably receive the wheels. A rope is movably engaged with an upper pulley positioned to allow the pet food elevating device to be raised to a desired elevation within the vertical track. A first end of the rope is coupled to the food platform, and a second end of the rope is available to a user of the pet food elevating device to raise or lower the food platform. The second end of the rope may be secured to hold the pet food elevating device at a desired elevation.
US08082880B2
A pad for a pet, for example a cat, to rest on includes a foam block encased in a fabric covering with generally parallel top surface portions that includes a head top surface portion for the front part of the cat to rest on and a rear main body top surface portion at a lower elevation for the remainder of the cat to rest on. The top part of the head portion is trapezoidal in longitudinal cross section with its major base being below it minor base which provide a part of the pad top surface. The main body portion has a generally planar rectangular top surface portion that is generally parallel to the minor base top surface portion.
US08082871B2
An air inflatable watercraft, having a cockpit with a bottom area forming part of the cockpit having a through opening therein adapted to receive a human operated propulsion mechanism which can be operated from the cockpit to propel the watercraft.
US08082868B1
A device which anchors a small boat to a tree stump is herein disclosed, comprising a section of resilient and inert material with an interior opening and is provided with a multitude of attaching apertures through its cross-section. These attaching apertures are connected to a plurality of three hundred (300) pound test nylon cords in a conical type fashion. The various sections of cord are also secured intermediately along its length thus producing a net structure not unlike that of a basketball net. The upper end of each cord is secured to a central point and is anchored with a section of five hundred (500) pound test nylon cord which is used to connect the device to a small boat. To use the device, the user slips the device over a tree stump or similar support structure protruding up through or just below the water surface. The net structure of the device provides a secure grip about the support structure no matter the direction of the boat in relation to the support structure.
US08082867B2
A ship (20) with one or more liquid transport tanks (21) arranged in an upright position in a ship's hull, said transport tanks having an axial direction and a circumferential direction, and each transport tank comprising a tank bottom (22), a tank circumferential wall (25) and a tank roof (23), the tank bottom being supported on or forming part of a lower deck of the ship's hull. The tank circumferential wall is suspended by its lower and upper ends by means of deformable deformation absorbers (26) between the lower deck and an upper deck (24) of the ship's hull, which deformation absorbers are designed so as to absorb deformations between the ship's hull and the tank circumferential wall at least in the abovementioned axial direction, at least the lower deformation absorber extending in the circumferential direction around substantially the entire circumference of the tank circumferential wall, and at least the lower deformation absorber forming part of the tank wall and being accommodated at the position of the transition between the tank circumferential wall and the tank bottom so as to form a continuous sealing connection between them.
US08082861B2
A tufting machine is provided with two transverse rows of needles, one row being associated with transverse row of loopers and the other second row of needles being associated with a transverse row of gated hooks. Novel and low pile height tufted fabrics can be created with this configuration.
US08082859B2
A stable mountable blind shelf support is mounted upon a wall having wall studs. A blind shelf mount for a shelf includes either a mounting disk or a baseplate with fasteners and a support post, such as a hex post, and is attached by further fasteners to a wall stud. Prior to installation, the wall is marked with mounting locations on the back edge of a shelf by transferring impressions from the support post or fasteners. Lines are scribed using a carpenter's square at each location of an impressed mark; then the midpoint of thickness at each site is marked. A counterbore is formed at each marked site on the back edge of the shelf and then the location of the drilled post holes is derived. The holes thus formed accept posts formed for two or more routed recesses in registration with each other in the finished laminated built-up shelf.
US08082858B2
A display substrate accommodating tray includes a bottom section for mounting a display substrate thereon in a substantially horizontal fashion; and a frame for surrounding at least a part of the display substrate when the display substrate is mounted on the bottom section. A plurality of openings are formed in the bottom section through which a plurality of supporting members are to be inserted for, when the display substrate is mounted on the bottom section, raising the mounted display substrate above the bottom section.
US08082857B2
An overbed table is provided for use with a bed. The bed includes a first connector that mates with a second connector of the overbed table. When the first and second connectors mate, an electrical connection is established for an electrical device supported by the overbed table.
US08082853B2
A pressure device for conduction of the cable in cable traction transportation systems including a pressure-roller (12) of the cable (7) supported elastically on a fixed support (2) and a counter-roller (6) supported on the fixed support (2) is described. In accordance with this invention the counter-roller (6) is supported in a revolving manner on a roller-holder (5) articulated at one end to the fixed support (2) and possesses at the other end guide means (8, 9) that engage as a running guide an arm (10) that bears in a revolving manner at one end the pressure-roller (12) on the side opposite the counter-roller (6) and is articulated at the other end to the fixed support (2) with the arm (10) being pressed by elastic means in the direction of exertion of pressure of the pressure-roller (12) on the cable (7).
US08082851B2
The invention relates to ammunition for missile weapon and firearm. The cavitating core of the invention comprises a head part conjugated with a secant nose surface along the cavitating edge, a central part, and an aft part with a gliding surface, wherein the caliber of the core is defined by the maximum diameter of the circle describing the core cross-section. The contour line enveloping the cross-sections from the cavitating edge to the core caliber in the plane of the core axial longitudinal section is limited by the dependence: Dx=d×[1+(1x/d)×(2×sin φ/π)1/N]N, where Dx—is the current diameter of the core enveloping contour R, mm; d—is the cavitating edge diameter, mm; Lx—is the current distance from the cavitating edge to the core caliber, mm; φ=60° . . . 270°— is the apex angle of the tangents to the secant nose surface at the points of its conjugation with the cavitating edge measured from the side of the head part; N=(2π/φ)0.4 . . . (2π/φ)0.2— is the core volume factor, wherein the core caliber is equal to the current diameter of the core enveloping contour Dx. As a result the invention makes it possible to increase the effective distance for hitting underwater targets when shooting from the air to the water and/or during underwater shooting using arbalests, harpoon guns, artillery, small and sporting-and-hunting weapons.
US08082850B2
A projectile includes a leading part formed by a tip and a tip base that form a first annular shoulder where they meet. A trailing part of the projectile is formed by a base having a frusto-conical trailing end and a cylindrical leading end of truncate extent that forms a tail drive. A second annular shoulder is formed where a cylindrical rod meets the tail drive. A flat trailing end of the tip base and a flat leading end of the cylindrical rod abut one another when the projectile is assembled. A cylindrical interface has a leading extent abutting the first annular shoulder and a trailing end abutting the second annular shoulder. The tail drive and the trailing extent of the cylindrical interface are the only parts of the projectile that engage gun barrel rifling when the projectile is positioned in a gun barrel.
US08082843B2
The present invention provides a page for binding in an album. The page includes a blank, printer paper sheet and a hinge strip mounted along an edge of the printer paper sheet, the hinge strip including a flexible line for allowing the hinge strip to bend along the flexible line and a portion for binding to an album. The paper sheet and the hinge strip are adapted to go through a printer together to provide a ready-to-bind printed page.
US08082840B2
The present invention relates to a system for pasteurization thermal treatment of foodstuffs, particularly leaf products, comprised of means for loading the product to be subjected to treatment and means for discharging the treated product. The system is comprised of a first treatment section in which the product to be subjected to treatment is conveyed by the loading means and wherein the first treatment section heats the product by a treatment fluid, so as to reduce starting concentration of thermo sensitive bacterial flora present in the same. A second treatment section is provided in cascade with the first treatment section. The second treatment section cools the product by the treatment fluid, so as to stop growing of residual bacterial flora present.
US08082838B2
A double-acting cylinder and piston mechanism comprising a cylinder (1) substantially closed at both ends by front (5) and rear (7) end walls, a piston (8) axially displaceable within the cylinder (1), a first region (6) defined between the piston (8) and the rear end wall (7) of the cylinder (1) and a second region (4) defined between the piston (8) and the front end wall (5) of the cylinder (1), a piston rod (2) extending from the piston (8) through the front end wall (5) of the cylinder (1), an air inlet port (19) for communication with said first region (6) of the cylinder (1) and at least one exhaust vent (14) which is exposed during axial displacement of the piston (8) for release of air delivered to the cylinder (1) through the air inlet port (19). The double-acting cylinder and piston mechanism is suitable for use in a pneumatic product rejection system, the piston (8) being connected to an ejector finger (18) for displacement of the finger (18) between a clear position and at least one product rejecting disposition of the finger (18).
US08082836B2
Recoil mitigating devices and methods for use with projectile firing systems such as a disrupter mounted to a robotic arm. A pair of parallel spring provides dampening of axial recoil movement of the disrupter relative to the robotic arm. Forward ends of the springs are attachable to the barrel of the disrupter while rearward portions of the springs are attachable to the robotic arm by a robot mount block. The robot mount block at least partially encloses the barrel of the disrupter in connecting the parallel springs and permits axial movement of the disrupter along or through the mount during firing.
US08082824B2
The present invention is directed toward the design of a holding apparatus which allows contact lens lathes to hold contact lens buttons during the contact lens manufacturing process. The holding apparatus functions to hold lenses manufactured from a different sized stock than what the lens manufacturing equipment is designed to hold.In general the holding apparatus has a circular portion having a mating surface on a one side and a cylindrical protrusion extending from the other side. A contact lens lathe can hold the cylindrical protrusion of the holding apparatus while the mating surface mates with a surface on a contact lens button. The lens button and holding apparatus surfaces can be modified to allow more efficient machining of the lens buttons.
US08082823B2
A stationary frame is positioned in surrounding relation with the surface of a polyethylene conduit to be prepared for scraping preliminary to performing electrofusion on the conduit by a keyhole operation in an excavated underground location. A scraper tool is mounted on the frame in a fixed longitudinal position to rotate around the surface of the conduit. A cutting blade of the scraping tool extends longitudinally a preselected length on the conduit into contact with the surface of the conduit. Rotation of the scraper tool carries the cutting blade completely around the surface of the conduit to remove a uniform layer of material from the surface of the conduit. Any out of roundness existing in the conduit is removed before the scraping operation is commenced. Uniform compression is applied by split clamps surrounding the conduit. Compression of the clamps restores the conduit to a concentric configuration preliminary to the electrofusion operation.
US08082822B2
A vehicle toe set adjustment device and method for adjusting a vehicle tie rod includes an adjustment head adapted to be received over a tie rod. The adjustment head includes a surface for engaging a tie rod fastener, a plurality of moveable collet keys mounted on the adjustment head, and a drive member engaging surface. An actuator on the adjustment head moves the collet keys to engage the tie rod after the tie rod is received in the adjustment head. A method is also provided for engaging moveable collet keys on an adjustment head to engage the tie rod for rotation of the tie rod to adjust the toe set of a vehicle wheel. The device and method are useful with a variety of tie rod assemblies on various vehicles having different sized tie rod assemblies.
US08082821B2
A tool for opening and closing a boot buckle that has a latching lever including a base portion and a longitudinally extending first working head with an opening sized to engage the latching lever. A tongue portion projects from the base portion into the opening, and this opening may be formed as an annulus. Teeth may be provided on the internal sidewall of the opening. A second working head may be provided with a socket portion thereon to mount a tool piece. A lidded compartment may be formed in the base portion. A cord may mount to the base portion.
US08082818B2
A sun shaft, planetary shafts, and a ring shaft having respective axes of rotation in parallel with one another are provided. A helical sun gear, helical planetary gears, and a helical ring gear are provided on the sun shaft, the planetary shafts, and the ring shaft, respectively, and cooperatively constitute a first planetary gear mechanism. A screw sun gear, screw planetary gears, and a screw ring gear 44 are provided on the sun shaft, the planetary shafts, and the ring shaft, respectively, and cooperatively constitute a second planetary gear mechanism. Either of the gear ratio of the screw sun gear to the screw planetary gears and the gear ratio of the screw ring gear to the screw planetary gears differs from the gear ratio of the helical sun gear to the helical planetary gears and from the gear ratio of the helical ring gear to the helical planetary gears.
US08082812B2
A closure system for a motor vehicle includes a pinion and a pair of U-shaped, flat sliders. The pinion is engaged to a drive shaft to rotate in a first rotational direction and an opposite second rotational direction in response to the drive shaft rotating. Each slider has an inner leg and an outer leg connected at one end to a bridge. The inner surface of each inner leg includes a gear rack. The inner surfaces of the inner legs face one another and surround opposite sides of the pinion such that corresponding portions of the gear racks engage the respective opposite sides of the pinion whereby the sliders are longitudinally displaced away from one another in response to the pinion rotating in the first rotational direction and are longitudinally displaced toward one another in response to the pinion rotating in the second rotational direction.
US08082805B2
A sensor assembly for measuring or detecting a magnetic field, torsion, or mechanical tension has a magnetic or magnetizable electrically conductive conductor having a first section and thereadjacent a second section in which a helical anisotropy is or can be generated. A dynamical helical magnetization is generated in the first conductor section a dynamic helical magnetization and is transferred to the second conductor section. A voltage in the second conductor section that is generated by the transfer of magnetization from the first conductor section is detected.
US08082804B2
Load-measuring transducers utilizing induced-voltage measurement techniques are described. The wiring patterns of such transducers can be configured to reduce interference errors due to wiring patterns thereof.
US08082802B1
A testing apparatus is disclosed that includes a turntable, an upper scissor jack assembly and a lower scissor jack assembly positioned in parallel planes, about a longitudinal axis and affixed to a base. The apparatus is powered by at least three motors with supporting controllers. The lower assembly is affixed to the base mechanically via the turntable which allows the lower assembly to rotate with respect to the upper assembly. There are two loading plates attached to the hinges of each scissor jack. The test specimen is secured by the loading plate. Each scissor jack operates by a screw-gear powered by one of the motors. Upon energizing a stepper motor; the screw-gear positions a scissor jack to apply a tension or compression on the specimen. While subjected to tension or compression, the lower jack assembly can be rotated with respect to the upper assembly for in-plane shear loading.
US08082799B2
A method is provided for determining the extent of cyclic stress fatigue suffered by a component comprising the steps of: (i) obtaining a gauge material which undergoes a continued progressive/cumulative and quantifiable change in at least one of its physical properties in response to repeated strain cycles applied to the gauge material, the quantifiable change being indicative of both degree of strain and number of cycles incurred during the repeated strain cycles; (ii) determining a correlation between an extent of the quantifiable change in the gauge material and an effect on said component of a corresponding number and degree of strain cycles; (iii) affixing the gauge material to said component to subject the gauge material to any strain encountered by an adjacent portion of the component; (iv) at least periodically determining the extent of said quantifiable change to the gauge material to determine the extent of cyclic stress fatigue undergone by the component.
US08082797B2
The present disclosure relates to pressure sensors. In one illustrative embodiment, the pressure sensor may include a pressure sensor assembly having pressure ports on opposite sides of the pressure sensor assembly. The pressure sensor may include a protective housing including a first housing member and a second housing member defining a cavity for securely housing the pressure sensor assembly. The protective housing may include a first port coupled to one of the pressure ports of the pressure sensor assembly and a second port coupled to the other pressure port of the pressure sensor assembly. In some cases, the protective housing may include one or more aligning features, one or more positioning features, and a boss, which can include two or more bumps, on each side of the cavity around the pressure ports.
US08082791B2
The invention relates to an apparatus and a method for determining the softness of a hygienic paper or textile with at least one ply, wherein an element (106) is arranged relative to a positionally fixed sample (P), with at least one ply, of the hygienic paper or textile such that it can move and is designed such that it can be adjusted with respect to the sample (P) with a penetration force (F) acting on the sample (P) being specified, wherein in the region of the oscillations being produced between sample (P) and the element (106), an oscillation sensor (116) is arranged which registers the noises produced during the relative movement of the element (106) acting on the sample (P).
US08082773B2
In a fuel property detection device, a fuel housing is made of a thin-plate metal member that can be elastically-deformed by a fuel pressure in a fuel chamber. Thus, if the fuel pressure in the fuel chamber is increased, the fuel housing expands and the pressure in the fuel chamber is decreased. Further, if the fuel pressure in the fuel chamber is decreased, the fuel housing contracts and the pressure in the fuel chamber is increased. That is, the fuel housing functions as a kind of damper. Therefore, in the fuel property detection device, generation of abnormal noise due to fuel pulsation or the like, and a positional change of the electrodes due to the fuel pulsation or the like can be prevented.
US08082772B2
Methods and apparatus for measuring the yield value of flowable material in a flow of flowable material comprise iteratively wetting a measuring body by the flowable material at a relatively constant temperature, subsequently permitting the flowable material to discharge for a discharge time so that the measuring body achieves approximately constant weight, using a functional unit in communication with the measuring body to determine a residual quantity of the flowable material which adheres to the measuring body after the discharge time, and determining the yield value of the flowable material based upon the quantity of the flowable material adhering on the measuring body.
US08082771B2
The present invention discloses an adjustable hydraulic press with both upper and lower double action, specially suitable for the cylindrical gear formed by stamping or expanding, closed forging and the metal cold forming or metal hot forming of punching, finishing, flanging and drawing of sheet materials. The press comprises four columns, an upper beam, a main slide block, a hold down slide block, a fixing worktable, a floating worktable and a lower beam. A hydraulic chamber a of master cylinder fixed in the upper beam communicates to a hydraulic chamber of an auxiliary cylinder, a plunger of the master cylinder is connected to the main slide block and drives it. A hydraulic chamber of a gas-liquid power accumulator fixed in the main slide block communicates to a hydraulic chamber of a hold down cylinder, a plunger of the hold down cylinder is connected to the hold down slide block and drives it. A plunger of an ejecting cylinder fixed in the lower beam is connected to the floating worktable and drives it. The hydraulic press of the invention simplifies the hydraulic system of the existing hydraulic, improves utilization rate of energy, production efficiency and working accuracy of workpiece.
US08082769B2
A robotic bending apparatus for bending archwires and other types of elongate, bendable medical devices into a desired configuration includes a first gripping tool and a moveable gripping tool. The first gripping tool can be either fixed with respect to a base or table for the robot or positioned at the end of robot am. The moveable gripping tool is mounted to the end of a moveable robot arm having a proximal portion also mounted to the base. The robot preferably comprises a six axis bending robot, in which the distal end of the moveable arm can move relative to the fixed gripping tool about three translational axes and three rotational axes. The gripping tools preferably incorporate force sensors which are used to determine overbends needed to get the desired final shape of the archwire. The robot may also include a resistive heating system in which current flows through the wire while the wire is held in a bent condition to heat the wire and thereby retain the bent shape of the wire. A magazine for holding a plurality of straight archwires needing to be bent and a conveyor system for receiving the wires after the bending process is complete are also described. The robot bending system is able to form archwires with any required second and third order bends quickly and with high precision. As such, it is highly suitable for use in a precision appliance-manufacturing center manufacturing a large number of archwires (or other medical devices or appliances) for a distributed base of clinics.
US08082768B2
A piercing and rolling plug has a film composed of oxides such as Fe3O4 and FeO and Fe (metal) as being formed on the surface of the base metal by electric arc spraying using an iron wire whose main component is Fe and, owing to this film, a plug excellent in heat-shielding and seizure-preventing effects can be realized and the lifetime of the plug can be prolonged. Further, in regenerating this plug, a film can be re-formed via the steps of shot blasting of the as-used plug in piercing and rolling and electric arc spraying in that order; thus, it is possible to regenerate the plug at low cost and in a short period of time.
US08082767B2
The present invention provides a lubricant for hot metal working which is capable of inhibiting generation of white scale, attributed to the lubricant, on the surface of a workpiece material and is capable of improving lubricity to obtain favorable appearance of the finished product. The lubricant for hot metal working comprises a silicate compound used for adding to a lubricant composition mainly containing sodium borate.
US08082762B2
A circular knit tubing adapted for making a wearable article has a first knitted single layer tubular portion and a second knitted single layer tubular portion separated by a junction portion. The second tubular portion is folded over the first tubular portion at a fold line in the junction portion. The first and second tubular portions are then joined together, whereby the junction portion forms a band or welt. After the band is formed, the second tubular portion is folded back to cover the band. The wearable article may be a shirt having single layer top and bottom portions with a central double welt portion for physical contact around the wearer's chest or torso. The junction portion forming the band or welt preferably is integrally knitted with the first and second tubular portions. The band or welt defines a central opening to receive an electronic or electrical device or other component.
US08082761B2
A method for fabricating multilayer fabrics having a prescribed integration pattern and an apparatus of implementing same. In one embodiment, the method include the steps of providing a plurality of winding yarn carriers arranged in a multilayer structure along a first direction and configured such that each winding yarn carrier is operably movable with respect to one another along a second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction, forming a plurality of crossover points of the winding yarns by moving at least one winding yarn carrier along the second direction according to the integration pattern, transporting the binder yarns through the plurality of winding yarn layers at predetermined locations along the first direction, and locking the binder yarns in place, pushing the binder yarns toward the fell of the multilayer fabrics, and taking up the formed multilayer fabrics.
US08082760B2
A non-woven product having a core layer (32) containing dense particulate additive between adjacent layers (33) which are substantially free of additive is made by fiberizing a mineral melt on a spinner (1) comprising at least one fiberizing rotor (2, 3, 4) mounted for rotation about a substantially horizontal axis, and the resultant fibres are collected in air streams (5) as a cloud of fibres which travels towards a travelling collector (11) on which a web (14) is formed and carried out of the spinning chamber (9). Dense particles such as magnesium hydroxide are ejected from a suitable ejector (15) on to a baffle (16) by which they are deflected across the width of the chamber and lengthwise over the length of a intermediate collecting zone (B) to form the core layer (32) while the initial and final collecting zone (A and C) are substantially free of the dense particulate additive.
US08082756B2
Methods for edging optical articles comprising two main faces, at least one of which being coated with an outermost layer comprising fixing the optical article to a chuck with a holding pad that adheres to both the optical article and the chuck, wherein the surface of the holding pad contacting the optical comprises an adhesive material; and edging the optical article with an edging device; wherein prior to fixing the optical article to the chuck, at least one temporary layer of an organic material is formed onto said outermost layer of the optical article, the organic material of the temporary layer comprising at least one organic compound having a fluorinated functional moiety and at least one linking functional moiety capable of establishing at least one intermolecular bond or interaction with the adhesive material of the holding pad. Optical articles obtained via these methods.
US08082745B2
A refrigeration cycle system is disclosed. A compression unit 11 for compressing the refrigerant by the drive force of a vehicle engine 4 is arranged in a housing 10 of a compressor 1. The flow rate of the refrigerant discharged from the compression unit 11 is detected by a flow rate sensor 15 including a throttle portion 15b and a pressure difference detection mechanism 15a. The throttle portion 15b reduces the flow rate of the refrigerant discharged from the compression unit 11. The pressure difference detection mechanism 15a detects the pressure difference between the upstream side and the downstream side of the throttle portion 15b in the refrigerant flow thereby to detect the flow rate of the refrigerant discharged from the compression unit 11. An oil separator 12 for separating the lubricating oil from the refrigerant discharged from the compression unit 11 is interposed between the compression unit 11 and the flow rate sensor 15.
US08082737B2
A boiler system for producing steam from water includes a plurality of serially arranged oxy fuel boilers. Each boiler has an inlet in flow communication with a plurality of tubes. The tubes of each boiler form at least one water wall. Each of the boilers is configured to substantially prevent the introduction of air. Each boiler includes an oxy fuel combustion system including an oxygen supply for supplying oxygen having a purity of greater than 21 percent, a carbon based fuel supply for supplying a carbon based fuel and at least one oxy-fuel burner system for feeding the oxygen and the carbon based fuel into its respective boiler in a near stoichiometric proportion. The oxy fuel system is configured to limit an excess of either the oxygen or the carbon based fuel to a predetermined tolerance. The boiler tubes of each boiler are configured for direct, radiant energy exposure for energy transfer. Each of the boilers is independent of each of the other boilers.
US08082716B1
A roofing tile system provides a secure covering for a building roof and comprises a plurality of rigid tiles attached on a pitched roofing substrate in multiple interlocked rows of tiles. Each tile includes a protected end partially overlapped by another tile in an adjacent row, and an exposed end. The protected end of each tile includes at least one attachment hole and at least one anchoring panel. The exposed end of each tile includes at least one interlock hole. Primary roofing screws are provided for driving through attachment holes and into the substrate for attaching tiles in side-by-side relation to form multiple rows. Secondary roofing screws are provided for driving through interlock holes and into the interlock panel of a partially overlapped tile in an adjacent row, for interlocking the exposed ends of the roofing tiles with anchoring panels in adjacent tiles.
US08082709B2
The invention relates to a modular construction system. In particular, but not exclusively, the invention relates to a construction system, including modules, which are capable of being used in a wide range of applications including buildings and various other structures. Prior systems included structured modules connected by means of flexible joints which were composed of cables. These allowed relative movement between walls of various units. Such systems were complex and expensive to manufacture An improved modular construction system overcame this problem by providing a plurality of structural elements of V-shaped or chevron-shaped cross section. These are adapted to be assembled in a cellular configuration by their similar form, size and by virtue of the elements having apertures. Any aperture may receive a connector, which permits an amount of relative movement between said elements in two-rotational degrees of freedom.
US08082704B2
A flooring, preferentially designed to be used for laying running tracks, includes a treading layer constituted by an elastomer mass and a supporting layer also constituted by an elastomer mass. The supporting layer has, on the side opposite to the treading layer, an array of cavities delimited by ribbings constituting a mesh of uniform ribbings. The cavities are cavities having an elongated shape in the direction of running on the flooring. The cavities occupy a volume equal to at least 28%, and preferentially at least 30%, of the volume of the supporting layer.
US08082702B2
A ground anchor and weight distribution plate assembly includes a ground anchor member and a weight distribution plate member. The weight distribution plate member includes an opening formed therein which is sized and shaped to allow for only partial passage of the ground anchor member there through. During installation, the ground anchor member is partially passed through the opening in the weight distribution plate member and then driven into the ground. Compressive forces are exerted by the weight distribution plate member to compact underlying soil and provide a foundation for construction structures such as decks.
US08082699B1
A modular structure includes at least one modular unit comprising a structure base and a structure enclosure carried by the structure base. Each of the structure base and the structure enclosure comprises lightweight concrete providing a significantly improved structure over the currently used fabrication processes. The modular structure is fabricated utilizing tunnel fabrication processes, creating a unitary structure. The structure can be finished at a manufacturing location, then transported and installed at the desired location. Connector plate assemblies are molded into the structure for securing two adjacent modules. Adjacent modules can be oriented perpendicular, parallel, or any angle therebetween to each other.
US08082691B2
A system for defense against small mammals, for example voles, for areas used for agricultural or horticultural purposes, consists of segments to be put together to form a gutter that is open towards the top, forming a type of fence. Each segment has a base plate and walls that rise laterally from this base plate. An inlet opening is provided, at least in the side wall that faces away from the area to be protected.
US08082690B2
An avian decoy including a decoy body; a stake having an upper end for rotatably supporting the decoy body, and having a lower end for being anchored to a support surface; and a guide for guiding the upper end of the stake into proper position in the decoy body.
US08082675B1
A marking device for marking the location for a support for a mountable object, such as a picture frame, has a body with a compressible configuration and adhesive for removably attaching a back face to a backside of the mountable object. A marker is coupled to the body and disposed below a front face in an uncompressed configuration and projects at least to the front face to mark the surface in the compressed configuration. The marker is disposed adjacent a perimeter edge of the body to facilitate alignment. A sighting notch can be formed in the body with the marker at the apex of the notch to facilitate alignment.
US08082672B2
A method for forming one or more patterns for a thin film photovoltaic material. The method includes providing a substrate including a molybdenum layer and an overlying absorber comprising a copper bearing species and a window layer comprising a cadmium bearing species. The substrate is supported to expose a surface of the window layer. In a specific embodiment, the method includes using a scribe device. The scribe device includes a scribe having a tip. The scribe device is configured to pivot about one or more regions and configured to apply pressure to the tip, such that the tip is placed on a selected region of the window layer or the absorber layer. The method moves the scribe device relative to the substrate in a direction to form a pattern on at least the window layer or the absorber layer at a determined speed maintaining the molybdenum layer free from the pattern.
US08082671B2
A hand-held power jigsaw includes a clamping device which has an insertion slot (26) for a shaft (153) of the tool and has a transverse aperture (27) extending transversely to the insertion slot (26) and opening out into it. A clamping element (19) for clamping the shaft (153) can slide in the transverse aperture (27) and travels into the insertion slot (26) at one end and protrudes out from the transverse aperture (27) at the other end. A centering piece (18) has a rotatable clamping sleeve (20) equipped with a clamping curve (28) that slides the clamping element (19), equipped with a clamping spring, which engages the clamping sleeve (20) and rotates the clamping sleeve (20). The centering piece (18) has two transverse apertures (27) and in which two clamping elements (19) are supported opposite each other in a movable fashion.
US08082666B2
The invention relates to a method for producing a bodywork component of a motor vehicle that has first been shaped and is then thermally surface-treated, said method comprising iterative simulated steps with variable geometric data of tools that are used in the shaping process. According to the invention, a continuous check verifies whether the expected geometric data of the component lies within the permitted tolerance range of the nominal geometric data of the component. If this is not the case, the geometric data and the generation of corrected tool geometric data is modified. This takes place in two stages, the first stage for the shaping steps and the subsequent stage for the process steps of the thermal surface treatment.
US08082661B2
An apparatus (1) for fixing a planar object, in particular a substrate (2), on a working area (4) by means of vacuum is provided with an at least partly transparent bearing plate (5), one side of which forms the working area and which has a rear side arranged at a distance from the working area with a radiation-reflecting structure (7). The bearing plate additionally has vacuum channels which can be connected to a vacuum line and which open into the working area. In order to illuminate the substrate as homogeneously as possible by means of transmitted light, at least one light source (10) is provided, the radiation of which can be fed into the bearing plate. In addition, the working area is preferably operatively connected to a heating apparatus (11), so that the substrate (2) can be heated.
US08082657B2
Method for manufacturing an electrical lapping guide for magnetic write head core width optimization
A method for manufacturing a magnetic write head that allows the location of the flare point of a write pole to be accurately located relative to the air bearing surface. The method includes the construction of a lapping guide having an edge feature that is easily and accurately located relative to the flare point of the write pole. This edge feature provides an abrupt change in electrical resistance across the lapping guide at a point when lapping should be terminated. And, since this feature can accurately located relative to the flare point, this provides an easily discernable ending point for lapping.
US08082648B2
An outer panel and an inner panel are integrated by placing peripheral parts of the outer panel on a top surface of a lower mold such that bending parts formed by bending the peripheral parts of the outer panel are set up upward; placing a central portion of the outer panel on a top surface of a lifting device; lifting the central portion of the outer panel by the lifting device to open leading end sides of the bending parts of the outer panel outward; placing the inner panel on the top surface of the outer panel so as to superimpose those onto each other; lowering the central portion of the outer panel by the lifting device; and pressing the bending parts toward the lower mold by an upper mold to further bend the bending parts, and making the bending parts to closely contact with the peripheral parts of the inner panel.
US08082638B2
The invention relates to an apparatus for producing textiles, nonwoven substances, spun-bonded fabrics or paper materials (5) with the aid of at least one screen drum (1) having openings (4) for transporting away the fluid (6) which is output from a water bar (7) and having numerous outwardly directed elevations (3) which are situated on the outside of the screen drum (1) for the perforation of the nonwoven (5). The invention is based on the object of providing an apparatus which makes it possible, during the water conversion and at the same time as the perforation, also to make patterns in the nonwoven without influencing the strengthening substantially in the process. The object has been achieved in that one or a plurality of regions (8) on the outer side of the screen drum (1) does/do not have any elevations (3) but only openings (4).
US08082632B2
A hinge device in a portable terminal is provided. In the hinge device, a first hinge base has a stopper protrusion at a predetermined position on an outer circumferential surface thereof. A second hinge base is rotatably engaged with an end of the first hinge base, facing the first hinge base, and fixed within a cylindrical hinge housing. The hinge housing has a stopper which pops out therefrom when the stopper contacts the stopper protrusion. The stopper restricts an angle at which a sub-housing is opened from a main housing in the portable terminal. Thus, a voice call can be conducted conveniently.
US08082631B2
A device is provided which includes at least four device parts, a first hinge element foldably connecting a first device part and a second device part along one edge of said first and second device parts; a second hinge element foldably connecting a third device part and a fourth device part, a third hinge element foldably connecting said first device part and said third device part, and a fourth hinge element foldably connecting said second device part and said fourth device part.
US08082630B2
A vehicle door hinge includes a base, a main link having first and second arms, a first end of the main link being pivotally mounted to the base at a first pivot, a drive link pivotally connected to an end of a control link, the drive link passing through a slot in the main link, a mounting plate having open ended slots opening at a first end of the plate, at least one closed end slot wherein an end of the drive link is pivotally secured in one of the open ended slots, an idle link pivotally secured in a closed end slot of the main link and an open ended slot of the door mounting plate, a kicker link having a first end thereof pivotally secured in the open ended slot of the main link and a second end pivotally secured in a closed end slot of the door mounting plate wherein the kicker link is longer than the idle link.
US08082628B2
A hinge includes a first connecting member, a second connecting member defining a through hole, a sleeve member fixed to the second connecting member, a shaft movably mounted to the first connecting member, and a fastener. The sleeve member defines a spiral slide groove therein. A clamping protrusion extends from the first connecting member for slidably engaging in the slide groove. The shaft includes a fixing portion rotatably passed through the sleeve member and the through hole. The fastener is fixed to a distal end of the fixing portion.
US08082623B2
A floor cleaning appliance includes a body having a nozzle assembly and a handle assembly. A dirt collection vessel and suction generator are carried on the body. The handle assembly is pivotally connected to the nozzle assembly and is selectively displaceable into and out of a home position. A latch locks the handle assembly in the home position. An actuator carried on the handle assembly, remote from the latch, releases the latch to allow the handle assembly to be moved from the home position.
US08082619B1
An auxiliary dual handle device for attachment to a handle of a floor cleaning appliance having a floor, engaging portion includes an elongated member which has a predetermined length and which is manufactured from a predetermined material and a bore which is longitudinally and axially formed in at least a portion of the elongated member and which is sized and shaped to slidingly engage an exterior surface of the appliance handle. There is a left and a right auxiliary handle, each having a first end portion thereof rigidly secured to a user proximal end portion of the elongated member and laterally offset from one another. The elongated member is secured to the appliance handle with fasteners of clamps. There is also provided a single piece dual handle device which is attachable directly to the floor engaging portion of the floor cleaning appliance.
US08082615B1
The present invention provides an infant bed having a support frame, an elastically inflatable mattress removably disposed on the support frame, an inflating and heating apparatus operably connected to the elastically inflatable mattress, wherein the inflating and heating apparatus continuously circulates heated air through the elastically inflatable mattress vibrating, expanding, and contracting an upper sleeping surface of the elastically inflatable mattress.
US08082614B2
An infant sleep aid device for alleviating acid reflux symptoms, preventing suffocation and collecting spit up or vomit is disclosed. The device includes a wedge-shaped body with a substantially flat incline to receive and support the infant in a prone or supine position. In addition the infant sleep aid includes section to support the torso of the infant and a section to support the head of the infant. The head support section is uniquely devised to include a wire mesh cloth sufficiently tensioned to support the head of the infant and through which spit up and vomit can drain through down to a funnel shaped body attached thereto or placed underneath; and means for delivering fresh breathing air through holes on the sides of the support head section. The infant sleep aid also includes primary and secondary harnesses to support and secure the infant in either prone or supine position.
US08082613B2
A roll restricting device including: a support member, wherein the support member is configured to surround at least a portion of an individual, and further wherein the support member includes an outer surface, and an inner surface; a roll restriction member, wherein the roll restriction member substantially precludes an infant from rolling over; and optionally one or more roll restriction member fastener(s), wherein the one or more restriction member fastener(s) releasably secures the roll restriction member to the support member.
US08082607B2
A sanitary cleansing apparatus includes: a main body incorporating a water discharge nozzle that squirts water from a water discharge port; a toilet seat rotatably and pivotally supported at a relatively anterior position of the main body; a toilet lid rotatably and pivotally supported at a relatively posterior position of the main body and generally entirely covering an upper face of the toilet seat and the main body in a closed state; a transmissive window provided at a rear of the toilet lid and formed from a material different from that of the toilet lid; and a human body detection sensor provided in the upper face of the main body and being capable of detecting a human body through the transmissive window in the closed state of the toilet lid.
US08082599B2
A body protecting device for wearing by a user comprising an array of energy absorbing cells, wherein each cell comprises a tube, and wherein substantially each tube has a side wall which is near or adjacent to the side wall of at least another tube, and wherein substantially each tube is configured such that the orientation of the tube is substantially maintained when a load is applied parallel to the axis of the tube.
US08082597B2
A convertible shirt having a sleeveless base and a sleeved half-shirt configured to couple to the sleeveless base is disclosed. In at least one embodiment, a convertible shirt includes a sleeveless base, a sleeved half shirt configured to couple inconspicuously to the sleeveless base, and a multiplicity of fasteners to couple to the sleeved half shirt to the sleeveless base. In at least one alternative embodiment a two-piece convertible Western shirt includes a sleeveless base, the sleeveless base having a flared, pointed collar, a button-up front, and at least a pair of pockets on a front side of the sleeveless base, a sleeved half shirt configured to couple inconspicuously to the sleeveless base, the sleeved half shirt having a Western adornment, and a multiplicity of fasteners configured to couple to the sleeved half shirt to the sleeveless base.
US08082596B2
An item of clothing for personal air-conditioning which has at least one three-dimensional air-flow guiding structure. The air-flow guiding structure is an air-impermeable woven spacing fabric. At least one pocket exists to accommodate an air-pumping device. The pocket interior is connected to the structure which allows for an air-flow capable of being supplied by the air-pumping device into the structure or out of the structure and connected to the environment allowing air to be drawn from or expelled into the environment.
US08087091B2
A method for selectively controlling access to electronic media disposed on a media storage device according to one embodiment is described. The method comprises creating a first list comprising a plurality of process identification values. Each of the plurality of process identification values of the first list is associated with a software application that is accessing the media disposed upon the media storage device. The method further includes creating a second list comprising a second plurality of process identification values. Each of the second plurality of process identification values is associated with a software application that is storing data. The method further includes determining that a particular software application is creating an unauthorized copy of the media disposed upon the media storage device. The method further includes preventing the particular software application from storing a usable copy of said electronic media.
US08087087B1
A computer receives a system event initiated by an initiating client associated with a user. The system event comprises a plurality of data elements associated with respective ones of a plurality of system event attributes. It is determined that the system event fails to conform to the security policy. A greatest of a plurality of significance factors assigned to a plurality of data groups that are associated with the plurality of data elements of the system event is determined. If the system event does not match a special attention rule, the greatest of the plurality of significance factors is assigned to the system event as a severity level. If the system event matches the special attentions rule, then a greater of the greatest of the plurality of significance factors and the pre-assigned severity level is assigned to the system event as a severity level.
US08087084B1
Scanning is disclosed. A system is monitored to detect object events, and it is determined whether an object event requires an update to a scan list. If an update is required, the scan list is authenticated. The scan list is updated with information regarding objects associated with the object event. Authentication may be performed by comparing a stored hash value of the scan list with a computed hash value of the scan list. If the scan list is not successfully authenticated, a full scan may be performed or a remotely stored scan list may be used.
US08087082B2
A data processing apparatus, comprising at least one processor and a traffic monitor comprising logic which, when executed by the processor, causes the processor to perform: creating, using forward Domain Name System (DNS) lookups, a mapping of domain names to Internet Protocol (IP) addresses; determining whether a particular domain in the mapping requires handling data traffic to or from the particular domain by performing a particular action; based on the mapping, determining one or more IP addresses that are associated with the particular domain; generating policy for a firewall that instructs the firewall to perform the particular action upon receiving a particular request; wherein the particular request specifies a particular IP address that is within the particular domain.
US08087078B2
With regard to data, stored in mobile phone 40, whose a security level is high and contents whose copyrights are protected, mobile phone 40 encapsulates data and contents, and includes the encapsulated data or the encapsulated contents. Further, mobile phone 40 processes the encapsulated data as a perfect encapsulated object utilizing only a method which is not authorized access to the encapsulated data by an executed program (E.g. Downloaded Java Applications). Java AP downloaded to mobile phone 40 instructs a perfect encapsulated object to process the encapsulated data in the perfect encapsulated object by using a method belonging to the perfect encapsulated object. Therefore, this invention makes it possible to ensure securities for programs to be provided through the network without losing diversifications of programs.
US08087075B2
One or more user service tickets are obtained (i.e. pre-fetched) from an authentication server and stored in a ticket cache. The user service tickets facilitate a login device communicating with one or more users or group members associated with the login device. Login credentials for the users or group members may be subsequently authenticated against the user service tickets within the ticket cache thereby eliminating the need for immediate access to the authentication server or a previous login session by the users or group members. The user service tickets within the ticket cache may be refreshed as needed. In one embodiment, the user service tickets are refreshed daily and also in response to login attempts if the authentication service is readily accessible.
US08087074B2
A token calculates a one time password by generating a HMAC-SHA-1 value based upon a key K and a counter value C, truncating the generated HMAC-SHA-1 value modulo 10^Digit, where Digit is the number of digits in the one time password. The one time password can be validated by a validation server that calculates its own version of the password using K and its own counter value C′. If there is an initial mismatch, the validation server compensate for a lack of synchronization between counters C and C′ within a look-ahead window, whose size can be set by a parameter s.
US08087073B2
A system enabling an application desiring access to a resource addressable by a URI to produce a response to an authentication challenge to a request to access the URI without including code specific to an authentication system and/or method is provided. The system includes an authentication manager that can pass an authentication challenge to authentication modules and/or objects operable to produce a response to the authentication challenge. The system may also include a cache adapted to store one or more responses to the authentication challenge communicated from the authentication modules, with such cache also being employed to facilitate pre-authenticating test challenges and/or pseudo-challenges.
US08087058B2
A system for providing television (TV) service including high definition television (HDTV) service, and for providing verification that a subscriber has connected an HDTV to the system includes a TV service provider headend and a set top box (STB). The HDTV may have an HDTV digital video interface (DVI) interconnect. The STB may be electrically coupled to the headend and have an STB DVI interconnect. When the HDTV DVI interconnect is initially electrically coupled to the STB DVI interconnect, the HDTV generally presents a data signal to the STB and the STB generally presents the data signal to the headend.
US08087054B2
A method for organizing event content in the form of electronic signals is provided. In accordance with this method an event profile is determined. The event content is obtained and the event content is organized based upon the event profile.
US08087052B2
A digital broadcast receiver and a control method thereof are disclosed. The control method of the digital broadcast receiver includes receiving a broadcast signal into which mobile service data and main service data are multiplexed, extracting TPC signaling information and FIC signaling information from a data group in the received mobile service data, acquiring a program table defining a mapping relation between each of all ensembles transmitted at a physical frequency and at least one virtual channel corresponding to the ensemble, using the extracted FIC signaling information, and detecting IP address information required for channel tuning to the at least one virtual channel corresponding to the ensemble, using the acquired program table.
US08087050B2
A client-server interactive television program guide system is provided. An interactive television program guide client is implemented on user television equipment. The interactive television program guide provides users with an opportunity to define expressions that are processed by the program guide server. The program guide server may provide program guide data, schedules reminders, schedules program recordings, and parentally locks programs based on the expressions. Users' viewing histories may be tracked. The program guide server may analyze the viewing histories and generates viewing recommendations, targets advertising, and collects program ratings information based on the viewing histories.
US08087045B2
Method and system for creating one or more advertising avail sections (subavails) and thereupon aggregating the subavails to form one or more groups of subavails. The advertisement opportunities (avails) may be divided into sections (subavails) with each section being directed at a particular target audience (group). The subavails are then aggregated into one or more groups of subavails so that the groups of subavails can be sold to the advertisers. The grouping of subavails is generally based on a correlation wherein the subavails are characterized based on one or more characteristics. The groups of subavails are formed based on one or more shared characteristics. The advertiser has an option to buy a group of subavails (rather than an avail in prior art), whereby the advertiser may reach a targeted group of an audience.
US08087033B2
A tool which allows users to define one or more event/action pairs, thereby speeding and customizing the user's interaction with web documents. Such event/action pairs may include keyboard shortcuts and associated actions, and the user can add, edit, or delete some or all such keyboard shortcuts through a convenient interface. The event/action pairs may also be associated with an account provided by a service provider, whereby the user can cause any browser that can access the service provider to load the event/action pairs, which in turn allows the user to work efficiently regardless of the computing device and/or browser available to the user.
US08087023B2
The invention provides a system/method of processing client requests over a computer network of hosts, that includes creating persistent containers in the hosts, creating objects in the containers, grouping the containers into grid container arrays, grouping objects within containers that are within a single grid container array into grid object arrays, creating one micro scheduler for each grid container array, dividing each of the client requests into a plurality of tasks, and assigning groups of the tasks to the microschedulers, wherein the microschedulers assign individual tasks to the objects. The invention assigns the microschedulers additional groups of tasks as the microschedulers return groups of completed tasks. The method can also include passing the client requests through gateways to multiple grid services schedulers.
US08087010B2
Mechanisms for selective code generation optimization for an advanced dual-representation polyhedral loop transformation framework are provided. The mechanisms of the illustrative embodiments address the weaknesses of the known polyhedral loop transformation based approaches by providing mechanisms for performing code generation transformations on individual statement instances in an intermediate representation generated by the polyhedral loop transformation optimization of the source code. These code generation transformations have the important property that they do not change program order of the statements in the intermediate representation. This property allows the result of the code generation transformations to be provided back to the polyhedral loop transformation mechanisms in a program statement view, via a new re-entrance path of the illustrative embodiments, for additional optimization.
US08087007B2
During execution of a program, a processor may identify one or more object class instantiations that are associated by the program with a program state obtained during the execution of the program, may store in a file a description of the identified object class instantiations, where at least a portion of the execution of the program is simulatable based on the file, and may modify the first file in response to a user interaction with a graphical representation of one of the described object class instantiations, where a modified version of the portion of the execution of the program is simulatable based on the modified first file.
US08087002B2
Methods and systems for visual debugging of an interpreted language in, for example, an Interactive Development Environment are provide. Example embodiments provide an S-PLUS Visual Debugging System (“SPVDS”), which includes an S-PLUS Workbench Debugger (“SPWD”) that provides “step-based” visual debugging, enabling programmers to step through execution of expressions by setting and otherwise managing breakpoints, examining variables and expressions, and controlling execution such as by step, step-in, step-out, step-over, continue, stop commands. In addition, the SPWD provides a profiler which tracks the number and duration of calls to functions and the amount of memory allocated to variables. This abstract is provided to comply with rules requiring an abstract, and it is submitted with the intention that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.
US08087000B2
The invention is directed to synchronizing code from multiple Software Configuration Management (SCM) systems. A method according to an embodiment of the invention includes: obtaining source code from a foreign SCM system and a central SCM system; obtaining a list of files and directories from the foreign SCM system and the central SCM system; creating a batch file; iteratively verifying from the list of files and directories from the foreign SCM system source code whether each file is one of: a new directory, an existing directory, a new file, or an existing file; for each new file and new directory verified from the foreign SCM system, creating in the batch file a command to add the new directory or the new file to the central SCM system; and completing the batch file. Another embodiment includes merging files in the central SCM system.
US08086997B2
Illustrative embodiments disclose detecting aspectual behavior in unified modeling language artifacts. A computer represents static and dynamic properties of the unified modeling language artifacts in a set of production rules. The computer also creates a set of bit representations of method invocations found in the set of production rules and determines whether common sub-sequences exist in the set of bit representations. The computer identifies a set of aspects within the production rules responsive to a determination that the common sub-sequences exist. Finally, the computer modifies the unified modeling language artifacts.
US08086987B1
Overloaded regions in the routing space of a physical network are resolved via a routing procedure composed of a topological routing phase and a geometric routing phase. The overloads are resolved in the topological routing phase where the constraints of routing are less prohibitive. Multiple topological transformations directed toward resolving the overloads are executed in the topological routing phase prior to a geometric arrangement being realized. The topological transformations may be applied concurrently by way of a multi-threaded embodiment of the invention.
US08086982B2
Systems and methods for synthesizing a gated clock tree with reduced clock skew are provided. A gated clock tree circuit with reduced clock skew may include a clock source and edge-triggered state elements. A gated clock tree disposed between the clock source and state elements may include a level in which each logic gate has a common logic type. Logic gates in the gated clock tree may also be configured as logic-gate buffers. The logic gates may also be configured as NAND-gated equivalents. The clock signal distributed through the gated clock tree may drive both positive-edge-triggered and negative-edge-triggered state elements.
US08086979B2
A PMOS device can be designed and manufactured in accordance with the invention to locate its drain junction breakdown point and maximum impact ionization point to reduce or eliminate drain breakdown voltage walk-in. In some embodiments, the drain junction breakdown point and maximum impact ionization point are located sufficiently far from the gate that the device exhibits no significant drain breakdown voltage walk-in. The device can be a high voltage power transistor having an extended drain region including a P-type lightly doped drain (P-LDD) implant, with drain junction breakdown and maximum impact ionization points appropriately located by controlling the implant dose employed to produce the P-LDD implant. Other aspects of the invention are methods for designing a PMOS device including by determining relative locations of the gate and at least one of the drain junction breakdown and maximum impact ionization points to reduce drain breakdown voltage walk-in, and methods for manufacturing integrated circuits including any embodiment of the PMOS device of the invention.
US08086972B2
A novel and useful method of functional verification of power gated designs by compositional reasoning. The method of the present invention performs a sequential equivalence check between the power gated design and a version of itself in which power gating is disabled. A compositional approach is first used to look for conditional equivalence of each functional block of the circuit (and its corresponding functional block with power gating disabled) under a suitable set of assumptions, guaranteed by the neighboring functional blocks. Circular reasoning rules are then employed to compose the conditional equivalences proved on the individual functional blocks back into total equivalence on the whole circuit.
US08086971B2
A method includes executing a gesture with a user-manipulated physical object in the vicinity of a device; generating data that is descriptive of the presence of the user-manipulated object when executing the gesture; and interpreting the data as pertaining to at least one object, such as an object displayed by the device.
US08086968B2
A dynamic electronic mail signature manager for managing a user's electronic mail signatures inserted into electronic mail messages. An electronic mail signature is displayed within a message composition user interface such that each component of the electronic mail signature is displayed in either an “include” display state or a visually distinct “omit” display state. Electronic mail signature components that are in the “omit” display state at the time the user indicates that the electronic mail message is to be sent are not included in the transmitted message. The user can toggle signature components between the “include” and “omit” display states by selecting individual objects. The initial state of each component when the user begins to compose a message (e.g. a new message, a reply message, etc.) may be automatically determined based on user configuration information, and/or based on message history information with respect to an indicated destination.
US08086966B2
An electronic apparatus is provided. The electronic apparatus is controlled by using parameters relating to a plurality of setting items, including: a specifying unit performing an operation of specifying a setting item out of the plurality of setting items; and a display processing unit displaying a numeric keypad to input a parameter relating to the specified setting item and an initialization icon to initialize the specified setting item on a graphical user interface screen. Further, the electronic apparatus includes: an initial value storing unit storing initial values set/changed regarding the plurality of setting items; and an initialization processing unit returning the parameter of the specified setting item to the initial value based on an operation of the initialization icon.
US08086962B2
In the present invention, a method and apparatus are provided for reproducing multimedia files, wherein the selection probability of the multimedia files is adjusted according to a user's preference and a multimedia file is randomly selected and played according to the selection probability. The selection probability of the multimedia files is adjusted according to the user's preference; a user can listen to undesired multimedia files less frequently than other multimedia files even when the multimedia files are randomly selected.
US08086959B2
Method and system for inferring a schema from a hierarchical data structure for use in a spreadsheet
A method and system are provided for inferring a schema from an electronic document containing hierarchical data for use in a spreadsheet application program. The electronic document containing the hierarchical data is received into an application program. The application program may be a spreadsheet application program. The format of the hierarchical data structure may be XML. The hierarchical data includes a set of nodes making up the structure of the hierarchical data. The nodes may be XML elements and attributes. The hierarchical data is then parsed to discover one of the nodes in the hierarchical data. Once the node has been discovered, content associated with the discovered node is saved to a memory location in the computer system. The content may include data associated with the discovered node and the type of data associated with the node. The hierarchical data is then parsed again to discover subsequent nodes until the content for all of the nodes has been saved to the memory location. Then a schema generator generates schema elements using complex rules based on the particular qualities of each discovered node for each discovered node until a schema is generated for the hierarchical data.
US08086958B2
A layout determination method is provided in which, if arrangement information of areas laid out on a predetermined page satisfies a condition set for the predetermined page, a distance between objects arranged on a page different from the predetermined page is changed and a relayout process is carried out. The layout determination method prevents creation of a new page even when content data to be arranged overflows from the predetermined page.
US08086950B2
A system and method for adding features to an electronic file is provided. The electronic file can be automatically examined to identify information that relates to features such as navigational aids or enhanced content. Certain information is defined to represent the navigational aids or enhanced content. When the information representing the navigational aid or enhanced content is located in the electronic file, the navigational aid or enhanced content is added to the electronic file. Bookmarks, internal links, web links, attachments, digital signatures and multimedia files are some examples of navigational aids and enhanced content that may be added to the electronic file, although other items may also be included.
US08086947B2
A document processing apparatus, including: a communication section to communicate with an external device; a document storage section to store a document file including a content portion and a menu information portion, wherein a content is stored in the content portion and menu information of executable processing for the content is stored in the menu information portion; and a menu display control section to control the communication section so as to transmit the menu information of an accessed document file to the external device, when an access request for the document file is received from external device via the communication section.
US08086938B2
A method for processing noise interference in a serial AT Attachment (SATA) interface. The method includes the steps of detecting whether there is an error in CRC (Cyclic Redundancy Check) checksum or whether an R_ERR primitive (reception error primitive) is received, detecting whether a FIS (Frame Information Structure) is a data type if there is any error and returning back to error state detecting step if there is no any error, detecting whether the FIS is a ATAPI packet command CDB (Command Descriptor Block) when the FIS is the data format, and writing a special tag to the CDB and returning back to the error detecting step.
US08086934B2
A decoding apparatus and method are capable of decoding LDPC codes with a high degree of precision while preventing the circuit scale of the decoding apparatus from increasing. A computation section carries out a first computation process corresponding to three check-node processes by making use of decoding intermediate results supplied from a decoding intermediate result storage memory by way of a cyclic shift circuit, and stores the result of the first computation process in a decoding intermediate result storage memory. A computation section carries out a second computation process corresponding to six variable-node processes by making use of decoding intermediate results supplied from a decoding intermediate result storage memory by way of a cyclic shift circuit, and stores the decoding intermediate result in the decoding intermediate result storage memory.
US08086930B2
Fixed-spacing parity insertion for FEC (Forward Error Correction) codewords. Fixed spacing is employed to intersperse parity bits among information bits when generating a codeword. According to this fixed spacing, a same number of information bits is placed between each of the parity bits within the codeword. If desired, the order of the parity bits may be changed before they are placed into the codeword. Moreover, the order of the information bits may also be modified before they are placed into the codeword. The FEC encoding employed to generate the parity bits from the information bits can be any of a variety of codes include Reed-Solomon (RS) code, LDPC (Low Density Parity Check) code, turbo code, turbo trellis coded modulation (TTCM), or some other code providing FEC capabilities.
US08086926B2
There is provided a failure diagnostic apparatus that diagnoses a semiconductor integrated circuit device for failure based on a compressed signal obtained by compressing a plurality of signals outputted from a plurality of scan chains in which a plurality of scan flip-flops, to which signals from the semiconductor integrated circuit device are inputted, are connected in series. For each stage of the scan chains, the failure diagnostic apparatus sets a virtual space compression circuit that compresses output signals of the scan flip-flops in the stage and a virtual pin connected to the output terminal of the virtual space compression circuit, and the output signal of the virtual pin is compared with the compression signal to diagnose the semiconductor integrated circuit device for failure.
US08086920B2
A test vector decode circuit includes a lockout circuit to prevent inadvertent latching of output vectors. The test vector decode circuit is driven by an additional output vector from the test vector decode circuit. The additional output vector, as well as the other output vectors, undergo at least one latching. A signal transmitted by the additional output vector as a result of the final latching activates the lockout circuit. The test vector decode circuit also receives a supervoltage signal. Only by turning off the supervoltage signal can all of the output test vectors be reset, including the additional output vector.
US08086918B2
A test pattern generating unit generates a test pattern in which unconverted data is arranged such that same values of 0 or 1 bits in converted data according to a code conversion table are successively transferred to each of a plurality of serial transfer channels that a high-speed serial transfer device has. A basic pattern setting unit sets a basic pattern while considering a byte order method and an RD value of code conversion in the high-speed serial transfer device. A basic pattern resetting unit resets the basic pattern in accordance with a channel usage method of a bit transfer order in the high-speed serial transfer device. A basic pattern rearranging unit performs rearrangement such that the basic pattern is transferred to each of the channels in accordance with the number of used channels and a channel usage method such as bit transfer order in the high-speed serial transfer device.
US08086912B2
A computing system is provided and includes first computing resources representing a fraction of total computing resources, second computing resources representing at least a partial remainder of the total computing resources except for the first computing resources, and a memory unit. The memory unit includes a computer-readable medium having computer-readable executable instructions stored thereon that are accessible to at least the second computing resources. When executed, the executable instructions cause the second computing resources to monitor a process running on the first computing resources in accordance with pre-selected parameters, to determine that a potential lock or wait situation that impedes the process is in effect from a result of the monitoring and to execute an action in response to the potential lock or wait situation.
US08086909B1
A support center receives an error message from a remote storage system indicating that an error, such as a kernel panic, has occurred on the remote storage system. The error message is processed to determine the type of error, whether the type of error is known and whether a solution is known for the type of error. If the type of error is unknown, a core file upload request is automatically generated and sent to the remote storage system.
US08086904B2
Detecting an anomaly is disclosed. An indication that a computer system monitoring instrument is desired to provide as output a subset of the output data that it would produce if it were to remain on throughout a relevant period with no limit being placed on its output at any point during the relevant period is received. The instrument is configured to provide as output only the desired subset.
US08086899B2
Technology is described for diagnosing problem causes in complex environments by using factorization of a plurality of features. An embodiment can include the operation of identifying a plurality of entities having entity weighting parameters. The entities may be computing devices. The plurality of features can be associated with a respective entity having feature weighting parameters, and an instance of the plurality of features can be associated with individual entity instances. A fault label can be applied for an ensemble entity. The plurality of features can be linked using the feature weighting parameter and the entity weighting parameter with a bilinear model. A further operation is estimating weighting values for the entity weighting parameters and the feature weighting parameters for use in a statistical model. The meaningful feature parameters can be found for the statistical model that are likely to be responsible for entity faults.
US08086898B2
A redundant I/O module includes: a control I/O module that communicates with a controller and that comprises a first IOM setting information holding section for storing IOM setting information downloaded from a high-level apparatus, and a standby I/O module that communicates with the controller and that comprises a second IOM setting information holding section for storing IOM setting information downloaded from the high-level apparatus, wherein the controller includes: an IOM status generation section that detects a status of replacement of the standby I/O module; an IOM setting information acquisition section that makes an access to the first IOM setting information holding section of the control I/O module; an IOM setting information generation section that generates IOM setting information about the standby I/O module; and an IOM download section that downloads the generated IOM setting information into the second IOM setting information holding section of the standby I/O module.
US08086892B2
A microcode configurable frequency clock that may be used to control the speed of high speed comparison in an operational optical transceiver. The frequency clock includes a memory and a logic circuit. The memory receives microcode generated data relating to the desired speed of comparison. The logic circuit is configured to receive an input clock signal and to produce an output clock signal by frequency dividing the input signal based on the microcode generated data. The output clock is used to control the speed of comparison in the optical transceiver.
US08086890B2
A virtual machine monitor, a virtual machine system and a clock distribution method thereof. The clock distribution method includes: distributing real clock resource to a Guest Operation System (GOS), and saving correspondence between said GOS and said real clock resource; intercepting an access operation of said GOS to a virtual clock resource; sending said access operation to the corresponding real clock resource according to said correspondence, and then performing a write operation, or injecting an interrupt of said real clock resource into a local Advanced Programmable Interrupt Controllers (APIC) of a virtual CPU of the corresponding GOS of said GOSs.
US08086886B2
A method and apparatus for group power management of network devices. Some embodiments of an apparatus include a power management module, where the power management module is to transition the apparatus from a normal state to a low power state. The apparatus includes a wake module having a processor that remains active in the low power state, and a register to store a group address. The apparatus includes a network interface that is monitored by the processor in the low power state, where the processor detects a data packet identifying the group address at the network interface, and where the power management module returns the apparatus to the normal state upon detection of the data packet.
US08086862B2
Conventionally, when the version of a program has been upgraded, the whole of a currently stored program needs to be deleted to be replaced by a new program, and authentication needs to be performed again on such new program when it is activated. However, since the whole of the program is required to be stored and authenticated even when only a part of such program has changed, it consumes time and leads to the decrease in responsiveness. In order to solve this problem, the present invention extracts a difference between a new program and a currently stored old program, when such new program is to be stored, and the new program is to be stored after authentication is performed only on such difference.
US08086861B2
The present invention aims at providing an information processing terminal, a status notification system, and a status notification method that can protect both privacy and security when a status of the information processing terminal is notified to a server. An information processing terminal 10 has a disclosure/nondisclosure determination section 1001 that determines a notifiable server for each entry; a log concealing section 1002 that conceals an entry; a multi-log measurement section 1003 that commands to update hashes as to a plurality of parties; a log configuration section 1004 that configures a log directed at a notified party and that causes performance of signing action; a verification request section 1005 that requests verification; a policy storage section 1006 that stores a policy used for determining a party that can be notified; and a log storage section 1007 for storing the entry. The information processing terminal 10 commands accumulation, into a hash, of entries subjected to processing suitable for each notified party, such as concealing operation.
US08086851B2
A method of broadcasting a scrambled multimedia program, by way of a broadcast network, in which before transmitting a license key; a network head carries out a step of authenticating a terminal, and if the terminal has successfully authenticated, the network heads sends the terminal a license transmission message containing the license key or cryptogram of the license key, by way of a point-to-point link, and if the terminal is not successfully authenticated, the network head acts (at 200) in such a way as to prevent the complete descrambling by this terminal of the scrambled multimedia program broadcast.
US08086849B2
A method and system are provided for delivering event messages in a secure scalable manner. A network includes an event distribution device serving as an event generation device for generating and disseminating an event message through the network to event distribution devices serving as edge event delivery devices having recipient devices connected thereto. Event messages may be encrypted at the event generation device for each of the destination recipient devices or event messages may be encrypted at each of the edge event delivery devices for delivery to respective recipient devices connected thereto. A signing key may also be included with the encrypted message such that the respective recipient devices may authenticate a sender of the encrypted message based on the signing key. Encryption keys may be established based on policies of the network of event distribution devices or based on policies of the respective recipient devices.
US08086844B2
An online trusted platform module (TPM) in communication with a security module that can be located elsewhere in the network in a server machine. In an embodiment, the online TPM is connected directly to a network interface card (NIC) that is also resident at the client. This allows the online TPM to communicate directly to the network, and therefore to the security module (without having to deal with the TCP/IP stack at the client machine in some circumstances, e.g., the boot process). In an embodiment, the communications channel between the online TPM and the security module is implemented using the transport layer security (TLS) protocol. A secure boot process is performed in advance of security processing. Typical security processing includes receipt, by the online TPM, of one or more commands from an application. The online TPM then proxies out the commands to the security module. After the security module has completed its processing of the commands, results of the processing and any related status information is returned to the online TPM.
US08086841B2
A BIOS switching system applicable to a computer system is provided. The BIOS switching system includes an input module and a memory module, and the memory module further includes a plurality of BIOS's, an option recording block, and a boot-up management block. The input module produces a switching signal according to a user input. The boot-up management block determines whether replacing an execution option block's data in the option recording block is necessary or not based on the switching signal. The data of the execution option block is identification data of one of the BIOS's. The boot-up management block executes the BIOS indicated by the data of the execution option block while the computer system boots up.
US08086839B2
Methods and systems to perform an authentication operation after resuming from a sleep state are presented. In one embodiment, a method includes starting a boot process from a sleep state. The method further includes providing platform services to support an authentication operation as part of the boot process and determining whether to complete the boot process based at least on results of the authentication operation.
US08086837B2
Briefly, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, an apparatus and method to store initialization and configuration information is provided. The method may include storing basic input/output system (BIOS) software in a polymer memory. The method may further include copying a first portion of the BIOS software from the polymer memory to a random access memory (RAM) buffer of a memory controller, wherein the RAM buffer has a storage capacity of at least about two kilobytes (KB).
US08086836B2
A method and apparatus for the virtualization of appliances provides an embedded operating system (OS) which is included in the system boot ROM of a personal computer. When the system boots, the OS is launched and looks for all available virtual appliances from, for example, the following places: local USB, flash card, e.g. SD, xD, CF, CDROM/DVD, or other storage media; local hard disk storage; and the Internet, e.g. an appliance server. The user selects an appliance to use from the OS, whereupon the appliance is loaded and launched. If the selected appliance is not on a local storage, then it is downloaded, e.g. over the Internet from an appliance server. The downloaded appliance can be cached in local storage media such that, the next time it is needed, it need not be downloaded from the appliance server. The user can also elect to boot an operating system from the hard disk, if an operating system and hard disk are installed, or to power-off the system.
US08086835B2
Embodiments of the present invention address deficiencies of the art in respect to rootkit detection and provide a method, system and computer program product for external rootkit detection and remediation. In one embodiment of the invention, an external rootkit detection tool can be provided. The tool can include external static memory with an input/output (I/O) port interface to an external I/O port on a target computing platform. The tool further can include a boot image disposed in the external static memory, and rootkit detection and remediation logic disposed in the external static memory and referenced by the boot image. In one aspect of the embodiment, the external static memory can include a universal serial bus (USB) key and, correspondingly, the I/O port can include an external USB port.
US08086830B2
An arithmetic processing apparatus capable of performing an arithmetic operation for generating a condition flag commonly referred to by using a condition flag generated on an arithmetic operation unit basis in as few steps as possible is provided. The arithmetic processing apparatus, which processes multiple data in parallel based on single instruction, includes: processing elements capable of performing a common arithmetic operation based on the evaluation result of the instruction stored in the instruction register; and a condition flag arithmetic operation unit capable of performing one of the logical operation and the comparison operation on the condition flag retained in each processing element, transferring the operation result to each processing element, and updating the condition flag based on the operation result.
US08086815B2
A computer system includes a memory hub controller coupled to a plurality of memory modules. The memory hub controller includes a memory request queue that couples memory requests and corresponding request identifier to the memory modules. Each of the memory modules accesses memory devices based on the memory requests and generates response status signals from the request identifier when the corresponding memory request is serviced. These response status signals are coupled from the memory modules to the memory hub controller along with or separate from any read data. The memory hub controller uses the response status signal to control the coupling of memory requests to the memory modules and thereby control the number of outstanding memory requests in each of the memory modules.
US08086793B2
A buffer management method is provided. A host issues a read command requesting access for a read data block and a write command requesting recording of a write data block. A write buffer is dedicated to store the write data block. A read buffer is dedicated to store the read data block. The method comprises entering the optical disc recorder into a write loop. During the write loop, the optical disc recorder triggering a write command handling procedure in response to the write command; triggering a read command handling procedure in response to the read command; and triggering a pre-recording procedure to prepare the write data block in the write buffer for recording. Wherein contents between the write buffer and read buffer are exchangeable during the write handling procedure, the read handling procedure or the pre-recording procedure.
US08086788B2
A memory interface controller and method to allow a processor designed and configured to operate with NOR flash and static random access memory SRAM devices to instead operate using NAND flash and synchronous dynamic random access memory SDRAM. The system accomplishes this by caching sectors out of NAND flash into SDRAM, where the data can be randomly accessed by the processor as though it were accessing data from NOR flash/SRAM. Sectors containing data required by the processor are read out of NAND flash and written into SDRAM, where the data can be randomly accessed by the processor.
US08086785B2
Systems and methods are provided for using page buffers of memory devices connected to a memory controller through a common bus. A page buffer of a memory device is used as a temporary cache for data which is written to the memory cells of the memory device. This can allow the memory controller to use memory devices as temporary caches so that the memory controller can free up space in its own memory.
US08086782B2
A method and system for facilitating the performance of data backups facilitates the storage of information being backed up on a non-tape storage device in a format that facilitates the subsequent transfer of the information to a tape storage device without substantial further processing by a computer.
US08086777B2
A multimedia system includes a portable device, a multimedia expansion apparatus and a second display. The portable device further includes a main body and a first display coupling with the main body, in which the main body has a first multimedia module and a switch module. The multimedia further includes an expansion port for coupling the portable device, a multimedia switch circuit, a plurality of signal output ports and a power control circuit for energizing the expansion port, the multimedia switch circuit and the signal output ports. The second display is coupled with one of the signal output ports. The switch module forwards a multimedia signal of the main body to one of the first multimedia module and the multimedia switch circuit, and the power control circuit is to terminate power output to while the portable device is separated from the expansion port of the multimedia expansion apparatus.
US08086776B2
In an information-processing apparatus including a plurality of modules and a first arbiter which arbitrates bus-access requests of the plurality of modules, at least one of the plurality of modules includes a plurality of submodules and a second arbiter which arbitrates bus-access requests of the plurality of submodules and transmits at least one of the bus-access requests of the plurality of submodules to the first arbiter. The first arbiter gives priority to the module which transmits many bus-access requests, or the module which made a previous bus access, and limits the number of consecutive accesses made by the same module, so as to control the priority of accessing the bus by the plurality of modules. The second arbiter controls priority of accessing the bus by the plurality of submodules according to the free state of a buffer of each submodule, or the access type, whereby the bus-access requests made by the plurality of modules can be arbitrated, thus increasing bus-use efficiency.
US08086770B2
In a communication apparatus, a write controller writes received data in a temporary memory which serves as short-time storage. A read controller reads data out of the temporary memory. A discard controller controls discard operation of the data read out of the temporary memory.
US08086760B1
Communications connections with data storage systems are managed. A discovery process is executed to identify an iSCSI port on data storage system. Settings for the iSCSI port are accepted as user input at a server. Communication is performed from the server to the data storage system to configure the iSCSI port.
US08086754B2
Methods and systems for pushing content fragments into a distributed storage system, comprising registering a plurality of storage-and-computing elements that are accessed using Internet protocol; associating the plurality of storage-and-computing elements with a plurality of storage element types; and distributing content fragments to the storage-and-computing elements utilizing a predefined distribution function that maps content fragments to storage element types.
US08086751B1
A system and method of delivering a multi-media message to a recipient is disclosed. The multi-media message is created by a sender and contains a talking entity for delivering a sender message. A determination is made as to whether the recipient device has rendering software for delivering a video portion of the multi-media message. If the recipient device does not have the rendering software, the multi-media message is streamed from a server such that a generic rendering software device will deliver the multi-media message.
US08086750B2
Content stored in association with metadata is automatically redirected over coupled computer networks. A portal is configured to deliver the stored content to a plurality of distributed client machines via one or more designated network edge servers. The portal receives content requests from a particular client machine and utilizes the metadata to provide content portions to a first network edge server for delivery to the particular client machine. Modules such as software modules selectively provide either the first portion of the content or a further portion of the content to a second network edge server while automatically redirecting the particular client machine to the second network edge server in real-time. Redirection is performed in accordance with predetermined criteria which is preferably related to the performance of the network branch that includes the first network edge server.
US08086749B2
Techniques for managing a persistent session associated with a particular Media Access Control (MAC) include determining at a broadband remote access server whether an elapsed time since a data packet is received with the particular MAC address exceeds a threshold time. If so, then point-to-point protocol (PPP) control data is sent in a data link protocol payload that is encapsulated in a data packet with an Ethernet destination field that indicates the particular MAC address. The PPP control data indicates a request for an echo. It is determined whether a data packet with the particular MAC address in an Ethernet source field is received within a particular time interval. If not, then a session associated with the particular MAC address is terminated. These techniques allow PPP control plane functionality while utilizing IP over Ethernet for the data plane.
US08086746B2
Delivering electronic content includes providing instructions that might cause a computer to collect information including a network address and transmitting the collected information to a receiving computer. The computer that receives the transmitted information selects electronic content based on the received information and sends the selected electronic content to the network address included in the received information. Access to the electronic content might be selectively granted based on criteria.
US08086740B2
Method and apparatus for remotely controlling a computer with peer-to-peer command and data transfer
A remote access session is established between client and host computers with the assistance of a gateway. The gateway requests the host computer to send a plurality of data packets to different external addresses and monitors the network ports used for these outgoing packets. The gateway then uses the network port information to predict which port the host will use to transmit future outgoing data packets. A similar process is performed on the client computer. The gateway then directs the client computer to send further data packets to the network address and the predicted port of the host computer. Similarly, the host computer is directed to send further data packets to the network address and predicted port of the client computer. The computers are then directly connected together so that further data communications bypass the gateway.
US08086736B2
A data transmission/reception system is capable of transmitting and receiving data even from within a moving vehicle in which a constant connection to a communication network cannot be maintained. A temporary storage server that is established inside the moving vehicle temporarily saves upload data that are received from a user terminal. The temporary storage server is provided with the capability to determine whether a state exists that allows communication with various servers. When in a state that allows communication with the various servers, the temporary storage server transmits the data that it has temporarily saved to various servers by way of a communication network. The temporary storage server further, when requested to download from a user terminal, receives the download data from various servers by way of a communication network when in a state that allows communication with the various servers. The temporary storage server then temporarily saves the download data that have been received.
US08086731B2
A method for collecting statistics of a characteristic value with a threshold includes: determining, according to a total threshold for a characteristic value whose statistic is to be collected, at least one sub-threshold corresponding to at least one application processing apparatus participating in statistic-collection; issuing the at least one sub-threshold respectively to the at least one application processing apparatus, notifying the at least one application processing apparatus to enter into a distributed statistic-collecting state; after receiving from anyone of the at least one application processing apparatus a notification which indicates that a current statistic value of the characteristic value of the application processing apparatus reaches a sub-threshold corresponding to the application processing apparatus, notifying the at least one application processing apparatus to enter into a centralized statistic-collecting state to collect statistics of the characteristic value in a centralized mode.
US08086728B2
A network device including: a power utilization monitor for monitoring and determining the power usage for the network device, the power usage being associated with a predetermined time value when the power usage was monitored; a data traffic monitor for determining the traffic flow of the network device, the traffic flow being associated with a predetermined time value when the traffic flow was measured; and a data correlator for correlating the power usage of the network device to the data traffic of the network device by associating the predetermined time value when the power usage was monitored with the predetermined time value when the data traffic flow measurement was made is described.
US08086698B2
A user of multiple client devices (clients) makes application configuration changes on the clients from time to time. The configuration changes are stored in a local event log on each client, as well as in a synchronization server. When one of the clients connects to the synchronization server, for example when the user logs into the synchronization server while using a respective client, the configuration information in the server and client is synchronized. Conflicts, if any, in the configuration changes for a respective application are resolved in accordance with a conflict resolution procedure or conflict resolution rules associated with that application.
US08086694B2
Embodiments of the invention relate to systems, methods, and computer program products for remotely collecting data stored by a user in one or more network storage areas residing on a network. For example, embodiments of the method involve utilizing a mapping tool to identify at least one network storage area associated with the user, utilizing a collection tool to access at least one network storage area via a network, copying the data stored on the at least one network storage area, and transmitting the data from the at least one network storage area to a collection server.
US08086678B2
A system controls computer network communication devices in a background session in accordance with a control database. The system includes a computer network communication device having a non-volatile memory containing a unique device identifier and a communication module for communicating with a control site, the communication module being configured to generate monitor messages containing the unique device identifier and data corresponding to entry of a command by a user and to parse command messages received from the control site, and a control site comprising a device database and a control database, the control site being configured to compare data in the monitor message to control data stored in the control database in response to the monitor message having a unique device identifier that is also stored in the device database.
US08086677B2
Systems and methods for wireless systems provide a mechanism for resource sharing. In an embodiment, e-mail messages is routed between mobile wireless clients without first processing the e-mail message through an external e-mail domain identified in the e-mail message. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US08086673B2
A method for generating electronic meeting communications for multiple formats and a messaging server for adapted in accordance with the method. The method comprises: receiving on the messaging server a first electronic meeting communication having a first meeting component in a first format, the first meeting component including event information; determining a second meeting component in a second format different from the first format, the second meeting component including substantially the same event information as the first meeting component; and sending a second electronic meeting communication comprising at least the first and second meeting components from the messaging server to one or more recipient devices.
US08086671B2
The present invention relates to systems and methods that facilitate serial access to related messages stored within a queue. The systems and methods comprise a conversation manager that generates conversation groups and associated conversation group identifiers for related messages, wherein related messages are associated with one or more dialog conversations between services. The conversation manager utilizes a respective conversation group identifier to lock a conversation group and provide exclusive serial access to the related messages therein and any related incoming messages to a reader such that only one reader at a time can access and process the related messages; other readers can still concurrently dequeue and process messages associated with other conversation groups. The present invention employs order queuing techniques that ensure messages are stored in-order, which facilitates in-order serial processing of messages in a conversation group.
US08086669B2
A method of communicating between a print client and a print server is described. The method comprises obtaining an indication of the viability of communication of User Datagram Protocol (UDP) messages from the server to the client. If the indication is that UDP messages are viable, messages are sent from the server to the client using UDP. Otherwise a Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) request is made from the client to the server, that request is left open, and when the server wishes to send a message to the client, the message is sent as the response to the open HTTP request.
US08086662B1
A system allowing a user of a browser program on a computer connected to an open distributed hypermedia system to access and execute an embedded program object. The program object is embedded into a hypermedia document much like data objects. The user may select the program object from the screen. Once selected the program object executes on the user's (client) computer or may execute on a remote server or additional remote computers in a distributed processing arrangement. After launching the program object, the user is able to interact with the object as the invention provides for ongoing interprocess communication between the application object (program) and the browser program. One application of the embedded program object allows a user to view large and complex multi-dimensional objects from within the browser's window. The user can manipulate a control panel to change the viewpoint used to view the image. The invention allows a program to execute on a remote server or other computers to calculate the viewing transformations and send frame data to the client computer thus providing the user of the client computer with interactive features and allowing the user to have access to greater computing power than may be available at the user's client computer.
US08086653B1
A conditional purchase offer (CPO) management system is disclosed for receiving CPOs from one or more customers, such as airline passengers, and for evaluating the received CPOs against a number of CPO rules defined by a plurality of sellers, such as airlines, to determine whether any seller is willing to accept a given CPO. A CPO is a binding offer containing one or more conditions submitted by a customer for purchase of an item, such as airline travel, at a customer-defined price. A CPO rule is a set of restrictions defined by a given seller, such as an airline, to define a combination of restrictions for which the seller is willing to accept a predefined price. The CPO rules may be securely stored by one or more servers. The CPO management system permits a seller to correct for forecasting errors, if necessary, or other competitive forces which have produced excess capacity, by providing inventory for sale to CPO customers.
US08086647B2
The present invention is generally directed to a system, method and article of manufacture for modifying data represented abstractly through an abstraction model. In one embodiment, a data repository abstraction layer provides a logical view of an underlying data repository that is independent of the particular manner of data representation. A query abstraction layer is also provided and is based on the data repository abstraction layer. A runtime component performs transformation of an abstract query into a form that can be used against a particular physical data representation. The transformation includes ordering physical modification operations according to a physical entity relationships specification to ensure that the physical modification operations are executed in an appropriate order.
US08086646B2
In general, the subject matter described in this specification can be embodied in methods, systems, and program products. An identification scheme that is to be used for generating at least one identifier for an object is identified. A scheme entity that represents the identification scheme and includes at least one aspect thereof is created. The created scheme entity is stored in a repository such that the scheme entity can be selected for association with the identifier.
US08086641B1
An integrated search engine device evaluates span prefix masks for keys residing at leaf parent levels of a search tree to identify a longest prefix match to an applied search key. This longest prefix match resides at a leaf node of the search tree that is outside a search path of the search tree for the applied search key. The search engine device is also configured to read a bitmap associated with the leaf node to identify a pointer to associated data for the longest prefix match. The pointer has a value that is based on a position of a set bit within the bitmap that corresponds to a set bit within the span prefix mask that signifies the longest prefix match.
US08086638B1
When a directory tree is migrated from a source file system to a target file system, the directories of the directory tree are retained in the source file system, and handle translation entries are substituted for the regular data files of the directory tree in the source file system. The handle translation entries provide new file handles for the regular data files when the source file system is accessed with old file handles of the regular data files. For example, each handle translation entry includes the old file handle, a file system identifier, and the new file handle. The old file handle provides verification of the file handle being used for accessing the handle translation entry, and the file system identifier identifies the target file system in which the new file handle is valid.
US08086631B2
Methods, apparatus, and systems directed to receiving search queries, retrieving documents, computing the number of categories to present for a given query, computing the number of results to show in each category, computing an ordering of categories, and for all the result pages beyond the first page employing user interface elements that optionally allow the user to quickly zoom in on a specific category and get more results belonging to that category.
US08086620B2
Various example embodiments are provided for inferring relationships between queries. In an example, queries are related based on the identification of common terms between the queries. Another example is to relate queries based on the identification that the queries are associated with a single search session.
US08086619B2
A system and method for providing search query refinements are presented. A stored query and a stored document are associated as a logical pairing. A weight is assigned to the logical pairing. The search query is issued and a set of search documents is produced. At least one search document is matched to at least one stored document. The stored query and the assigned weight associated with the matching at least one stored document are retrieved. At least one cluster is formed based on the stored query and the assigned weight associated with the matching at least one stored document. The stored query associated with the matching at least one stored document are scored for the at least one cluster relative to at least one other cluster. At least one such scored search query is suggested as a set of query refinements.
US08086609B2
In a method and apparatus for analyzing nodes of a Deterministic Finite Automata (DFA), an accessibility ranking, based on a DFA graph geometrical configuration, may be determined in order to determine cacheable portions of the DFA graph in order to reduce the number of external memory accesses. A walker process may be configured to walk the graph in a graph cache as well as main memory. The graph may be generated in a manner allowing each arc to include information if the node it is pointing to is stored in the graph cache or in main memory. The walker may use this information to determine whether or not to access the next arc in the graph cache or in main memory.
US08086601B2
The present invention provides systems and methods of retrieving the pages according to the quality of the individual pages. The rank of a page for a keyword is a combination of intrinsic and extrinsic ranks. Intrinsic rank is the measure of the relevancy of a page to a given keyword as claimed by the author of the page while extrinsic rank is a measure of the relevancy of a page on a given keyword as indicated by other pages. The former is obtained from the analysis of the keyword matching in various parts of the page while the latter is obtained from the context-sensitive connectivity analysis of the links connecting the entire Web. The present invention also provides the methods to solve the self-consistent equation satisfied by the page weights iteratively in a very efficient way. The ranking mechanism for multi-word query is also described. Finally, the present invention provides a method to obtain the more relevant page weights by dividing the entire hypertext pages into distinct number of groups.
US08086597B2
A query of at least one mark-up language document has a path expression comprising a conjunction, a first filter and a second filter. The first filter has a first probe. The second filter has a second probe. The first and second filters form a between filter having start and stop values specified by the first and second probes. A plan to process the query is generated based on, at least in part, a range defined by the start and stop values. An index of mark-up language documents is defined by another path expression; the index comprises values of mark-up language documents that satisfy the other path expression; the values are key values of the index. The plan is to perform a single scan of the key values from the start value to the stop value to identify at least one key value that satisfies the between filter.
US08086595B2
A combinatorial search method and system is implemented in a computer control system for utilizing state-space planning of operations for multi-step production processes. The planner considers various possible combinations of actions, searching for one that correctly transforms the initial state of the object (or commodity) into the specified desired final state, where each combination of actions the planner considers is called a search node. Each node contains a plan representing a series of actions of a plurality of machines on a single object and also containing the predicted state of the object with those actions applied either forward or backward. The state of the object consists of the set of attributes of the object. The method and system include multiple individual state-space search operations having a plurality of nodes, at least some of the nodes include children, and the children of the nodes represent potential solutions to existing problems to be solved, and the multiple state-space search operations are linked into a single search tree.
US08086588B2
A computer program product and method for sharing information between multiple computer applications using a grafted model network. The method includes creating a first model having one or more pre-defined fields, defining one or more application-defined fields, associating the first model with the first application project, associating the one or more application-defined fields with the second application project, grafting the one or more application-defined fields to the first model, building the first and second application projects, and dynamically installing the first and second application projects on a software platform. Building the first application project comprises creating a first database table having one or more table columns corresponding to the pre-defined fields of the first model in a database. Building the second application project comprises adding one or more table columns to the first database table corresponding to the application-defined fields in the database. Dynamically installing the first application project enables the one or more table columns corresponding to the pre-defined fields of the first model to be accessed via the software platform by the first computer application upon execution on a computer, and dynamically installing the second application project enables the one or more table columns corresponding to the pre-defined fields of the first model and the application-defined fields to be accessed via the software platform by the second computer application upon execution on the computer.
US08086586B2
There is disclosed a method, apparatus, computer program and computer program product for facilitating access by an application to a data structure comprising a plurality of objects. A request is received from the application which initiates the return of the data structure. A handle is assigned to each of at least some of the plurality of objects. Objects in the data structure are retrieved and the application is informed of assigned handles thereby enabling the application to access retrieved objects.
US08086585B1
For enhanced access control, a client includes a token in each read or write command sent to a block storage device. The block storage device evaluates the token to determine whether or not read or write access is permitted at a specified logical block address. For example, the token is included in the logical block address field of a SCSI read or write command. The client may compute the token as a function of the logical block address of a data block to be accessed, or a metadata server may include the token in each block address of each extent reported to the client in response to a metadata request. For enhanced security, the token also is a function of a client identifier, a logical unit number, and access rights of the client to a particular extent of file system data blocks.
US08086584B2
A method, an apparatus, a system, and a computer program product are presented for determining whether a file system resource is a file system resource that is contained within a file system that can be automounted by a data processing system. A target file system resource is identified, after which a first file system data structure that represents a file system that contains the target file system resource is identified using a file system resource data structure that represents the target file system resource. If it is determined that the first file system data structure identifies a file system resource data structure that represents an automount point, the target file system resource is marked as an automount file system resource. File system resource data structures that represent hierarchically more inclusive file system resources are traversed if necessary to search for an automount point.
US08086573B2
A system and a method for identifying computer users having files with common attributes are provided. The method includes generating a first table having a set of attributes for each file in a first set of files associated with a first computer user. The set of attributes for each file in the first set of files have a plurality of attribute types. The method further includes generating a second table having a set of attributes for each file in a second set of files associated with a second computer user. The set of attributes for each file in the second set of files have the plurality of attribute types. The method further includes generating a similarity table by comparing each set of attributes in the first table with each set of attributes in the second table, utilizing a predetermined similarity metric, and determining whether the first and second computer users have at least one file with common attributes, based on data in the similarity table.
US08086568B2
Embodiments of the invention are generally related to data processing, and more specifically to retrieving results for a query from one or more devices coupled to a network. A first device may receive an abstract query including logical fields defined by a first data abstraction model and retrieve query results stored in the first device. The query may be sent to one or more other devices via the network. The one or more other devices may be configured to convert the abstract query to local abstract queries including logical fields defined in local data abstraction models. The local queries may be issued against local databases to retrieve additional results for the query.
US08086567B2
The present application provides a storage apparatus for storing data. The storage apparatus comprises storage means for storing data, committing means for committing the availability of a certain storage space to a source device, detecting means for detecting the availability of the certain storage space to produce a detection result, and communication means for informing the source device the detection result, whereby the source device takes corresponding action(s) according to the detection result. In this way, each storage device of a group is bound by its commitment, if it violates its commitment, it risks the loss of its file(s) stored on other members' storage space.
US08086565B2
The claimed subject matter is directed to a file system watcher in the presence of different file systems to allow synchronization of replicated files distributed among different file systems without compromising the features of each file system. To synchronize the distributed replications, a platform independent synchronization manager creates a file system watcher for each file system associated with a replication of the file. The file system watcher monitors each object for events affecting the object or the object's constituent files, such as creation, deletion, change and rename. Notifications are sent to the synchronization manager, which consolidates the modifications and updates a locally stored replication, if necessary. The synchronization manager then sends a notification of an update to all other synchronization managers for all replications of the distributed file or folder. Synchronization is complete when the nonconforming synchronization managers acquire a replication of the locally stored replication and update their respective objects to conform therewith.
US08086554B1
Pattern matching in a plurality of interconnected processing engines includes: accepting a stream of input sequences over an interface and storing the input sequences; storing instructions for matching an input sequence to one or more patterns in memory accessible by a first set of one or more processing engines, and storing instructions for matching an input sequence to one or more patterns in memory accessible by a second set of one or more processing engines; distributing information identifying selected input sequences to the first and second sets of processing engines; and retrieving the identified input sequences to perform pattern matching in the first and second sets of processing engines.
US08086549B2
Multi-label active learning may entail training a classifier with a set of training samples having multiple labels per sample. In an example embodiment, a method includes accepting a set of training samples, with the set of training samples having multiple respective samples that are each respectively associated with multiple labels. The set of training samples is analyzed to select a sample-label pair responsive to at least one error parameter. The selected sample-label pair is then submitted to an oracle for labeling.
US08086546B2
A method and system for anticipatory package shipping are disclosed. According to one embodiment, a method may include packaging one or more items as a package for eventual shipment to a delivery address, selecting a destination geographical area to which to ship the package, shipping the package to the destination geographical area without completely specifying the delivery address at time of shipment, and while the package is in transit, completely specifying the delivery address for the package.
US08086542B2
A method and system for the online promotion of intellectual property includes providing an Internet host station with at least one database that is connectable via the Internet to consumer stations and industry stations. The database includes a plurality of intellectual property items and a description of each intellectual property item. At least one of the intellectual property items is selected by a consumer station and the description associated with the selected intellectual property item is viewed at the consumer station. Portions of the description may be confidential and therefore not normally viewed at the consumer station. Feedback data is sent from the consumer station to the host station. The feedback data includes consumer opinion information of the selected intellectual property item based at least in part on the description of the selected intellectual property item. The feedback data is then accessed from an industry station to thereby determine the interest in the selected intellectual property item based on the consumer opinion.
US08086536B2
The present invention provides a method and system for location-based digital rights management. Digital rights for protected content are restricted to a specific location or region by specifying the approved location of the consuming device within the license. This allows the content owner to specify the geographic locations/regions at which the protected content may be consumed. The device obtains its location from a location entity which is then evaluated against the location constraint within the license. If the device is within the location constraint then the content may be accessed. Acquiring the location of the device before allowing access to certain content helps in preventing a user from accessing a protected document in an area which is considered a prohibited location as defined within the license.
US08086533B1
A system, method, and computer program product are provided for generating a variable payment authorization score. In use, a payment authorization request is received. In response, a variable payment authorization score is generated. Further, the variable payment authorization score is provided for use.
US08086530B2
Payments in cash are submitted to a merchant at a point of sale. The payment transaction is effected electronically to credit the end user's intermediary account. Subsequent electronic communications between the intermediary account and a vendor site effect payment to the vendor for goods or services on behalf of the end user. This system leverages the existing credit card payment system in reverse so as to provide the convenience of submitting cash payments at a multitude of merchant locations.
US08086527B2
The disclosed systems and methods relate to allowing trading of over the counter (“OTC”) foreign exchange (“FX”) contracts on a centralized matching and clearing mechanism, such as that of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange's (“CME”'s) futures exchange system (the “Exchange”). The disclosed systems and methods allow for anonymous transactions, centralized clearing, efficient settlement and the provision of risk management/credit screening mechanisms to lower risk, reduce transaction costs and improve the liquidity in the FX market place. In particular, the disclosed embodiments increase speed of execution facilitating growing demand for algorithmic trading, increased price transparency, lower cost of trading, customer to customer trading, and automated asset allocations, recurring trades as well as clearing and settlement efficiencies.
US08086523B1
A system, device, and method for calculating an enhanced credit score using insurance rating information, individual rating factors, interaction rating factors, geographic rating factors, vehicle monitoring rating factors, and/or credit risk information is disclosed. Insurance rating information, individual rating factors, interaction rating factors, geographic rating factors, and vehicle monitoring rating factors, either individually or in combinations, may be used as inputs to a novel credit-scoring model to calculate an enhanced or improved credit score for an individual or other type of credit user. The novel credit-scoring model may be implemented in a computer-readable medium comprising computer-executable instructions for causing a computing device to calculate an enhanced credit score. The computer-executable instructions may be arranged into an input module, output module, and calculation module. The modules may be used to calculate an enhanced credit score that may be used by lending institutions and others to determine the terms of a financing agreement with a user.
US08086518B1
A method of allocating an award in an auction wherein an award for a given auction round is allocated amongst a plurality of highest ranked bidders is disclosed. The method allocates the award between at least the first and second bidders. The method includes conducting the auction and allocating the award between at least the first and second bidders in accordance with the rank of the bidders and a predetermined divisional arrangement. A system, an apparatus, and a bidding device that perform the method are also disclosed.
US08086512B2
A distributed asset allocation processing system performs a computerized method for allocating subscriber assets. The system configures predetermined investment allocation paths that relate asset allocation models to trigger events. The system then selects a predetermined path based on a subscriber's risk tolerance. At each trigger event along the predetermined path, the system automatically rebalances the subscriber's assets according to an asset allocation model corresponding to the trigger event.
US08086511B2
A system, computer product and method for presenting a competitive comparison of a recommended financial transaction instrument. A set of questions is presented to a consumer in order to determine psychographic characteristics of the consumer. At least one subset of questions is presented based on answers to the set of questions, the at least one subset of questions relating more specifically to available benefits. A tailored financial transaction instrument is recommended having benefits which are based on answers to the at least one subset of questions. At least one similar competitive financial transaction instrument is presented to the consumer.
US08086501B2
In an embodiment, a method of conducting a multi-level transaction includes receiving a primary call for proposals, receiving one or more primary bids by a computing system with respect to the primary call for proposals, receiving one or more secondary calls for proposals for each primary bid, receiving one or more secondary bids by a computing system with respect to the one or more secondary calls for proposals, automatically determining an estimate of a trustworthiness rating for each primary bid, receiving the selection of a primary bid based on the estimates of the trustworthiness rating, and displaying the selection of the primary bid. Each secondary call for proposals includes a job request associated with the primary bid. The estimate of the trustworthiness rating is based on a trustworthiness rating associated with the primary bid and one or more secondary bid trustworthiness ratings.
US08086500B2
Systems and methods for providing interactive assistance on purchase decision-making are provided. These systems and methods are preferably adapted to enable a purchase decision to be made by preferably interactively assisting the purchase decision-making process until a final purchase selection is made or indicated.
US08086499B2
A method, system, server processing system and/or computer program product of conducting an auction having an online bidder and a site bidder, wherein a server processing system is in communication with a client processing system of the online bidder. The method includes: allowing the online bidder and/or site bidder to submit one or more bids prior to a first event, wherein a bid by a online bidder received by the server processing system is considered for acceptance prior to the first event; and in response to the first event: restricting, in the server processing system, a bid being accepted from the online bidder in the auction; and allowing a bid to be submitted by the site bidder in the auction.
US08086471B2
A system for electronic medication administration records comprising a cart station located at a skilled nursing facility, administration web pages, and a healthcare server not located at the skilled nursing facility. The cart station utilizes a plan builder algorithm to build a plan for each patient based on data contained in the cart station database. The plan comprises a list of the patient's procedures for a given day and information indicating whether such procedures have been completed. The cart station utilizes a plan runner algorithm to maintain and update the plan for each patient. The administration web pages allow an administrator to manage utilization of the system. The healthcare server and the cart station utilize a synchronization algorithm to maintain accurate and timely data for all of the skilled nursing facilities that use the system. A method of maintaining electronic medication administration records using the system described above.
US08086470B2
This invention is a system and method for a matching system that cross-references patients anonymously with doctors and pharmacies. The invention uses patient-unique biometrics, such as fingerprinting, retinal scanning, or another such unique identifier, for patient identification and verification without revealing a patient's name or other personal information. The system tracks patient prescriptions and produces alerts to indicate potential problems, such as drug interactions or possible fraudulent behavior. The system can produce a traceable paper trail, for investigation or prosecution, and protects the medical industry, patients, and the public from the consequences of doctor shopping.
US08086469B2
A pharmaceutical clearinghouse establishes relationships with a set of foundations and a set of pharmaceutical providers; in response to the clearinghouse receiving a patient request for a pharmaceutical from a foundation, the clearinghouse obtains a subsidy from at least one provider and directs the subsidy to the foundation. The subsidy can be cash, in-kind drug, or a combination thereof.
US08086464B2
Methods and apparatus for rendering a talking head on a client device are disclosed. The client device has a client cache capable of storing audio/visual data associated with rendering the talking head. The method comprises storing sentences in a client cache of a client device that relate to bridging delays in a dialog, storing sentence templates to be used in dialogs, generating a talking head response to a user inquiry from the client device, and determining whether sentences or stored templates stored in the client cache relate to the talking head response. If the stored sentences or stored templates relate to the talking head response, the method comprises instructing the client device to use the appropriate stored sentence or template from the client cache to render at least a part of the talking head response and transmitting a portion of the talking head response not stored in the client cache, if any, to the client device to render a complete talking head response. If the client cache has no stored data associated with the talking head response, the method comprises transmitting the talking head response to be rendered on the client device.
US08086457B2
Provided is a system and method for building and managing a customized voice of an end-user, comprising the steps of designing a set of prompts for collection from the user, wherein the prompts are selected from both an analysis tool and by the user's own choosing to capture voice characteristics unique to the user. The prompts are delivered to the user over a network to allow the user to save a user recording on a server of a service provider. This recording is then retrieved and stored on the server and then set up on the server to build a voice database using text-to-speech synthesis tools. A graphical interface allows the user to continuously refine the data file to improve the voice and customize parameter and configuration settings, thereby forming a customized voice database which can be deployed or accessed.
US08086451B2
A speech enhancement system that improves the intelligibility and the perceived quality of processed speech includes a frequency transformer and a spectral compressor. The frequency transformer converts speech signals from the time domain to the frequency domain. The spectral compressor compresses a pre-selected portion of the high frequency band and maps the compressed high frequency band to a lower band limited frequency range.
US08086449B2
A VF detecting apparatus capable of highly accurate vocal fry (VF) detection includes: a very-short-term peak detection processing unit framing a speech signal with a first frame of a first frame length and first frame shift amount and detecting each power peak; a short-term periodicity detecting unit framing the speech signal with a second frame of a second frame length longer than the first frame length and a second frame shift amount larger than the first frame length and determining presence/absence of periodicity in each of the resulting frame; a periodicity checking unit for detecting power peaks in those frames determined to have no periodicity, from among the detected power peaks; and a similarity checking unit for detecting, for each of the selected power peaks, neighboring power peaks having high cross-correlation and detecting the section therebetween as the VF section.
US08086445B2
A method and apparatus for creating a signature of a sampled work in real-time is disclosed herein. Unique signatures of an unknown audio work are created by segmenting a file into segments having predetermined segment and hop sizes. The signature then may be compared against reference signatures. One aspect may be characterized in that the hop size of the sampled work signature is less than the hop size of reference signatures. A method for identifying an unknown audio work is also disclosed.
US08086440B2
A method of prioritizing the automated translation of communications relating to a predetermined topic includes capturing and inputting into a data processing system a translation-candidate communication rendered in a first human language. A first data set representative of the translation-candidate communication is stored in computer memory and parsed into communication sub-portions. Communication sub-portions are algorithmically selected for translation depending on their relatedness to the predetermined topic as determined by first-language extraction rules. Each selected communication sub-portion is translated to a translated-data-set sub-portion representative of that selected communication sub-portion in the second human language. Translated-data-set sub-portions are subjected to a secondary filtration process in accordance with which their relatedness to the predetermined topic is determined by second-language extraction rules. Those translated-data-set sub-portions determined to contain information sufficiently related to the predetermined topic, or a related sub-topic, are converted to converted-data-set sub-portions representative of the translated-data-set sub-portions in a human-intelligible format and outputted through a machine-to-human interface.
US08086438B2
A method of simulating a program. Compiled and interpretive techniques are combined into a just-in-time cached compiled technique. When an instruction of a program simulation is to be executed at run-time, a table of compiled instructions is accessed to determine whether compiled data for the instruction is stored in the table. If the compiled data is not therein, the instruction is compiled and stored in the table. The compiled data is returned to a simulator that is executing the program simulation. In another embodiment, before storing new information in the table, another table may be consulted to determine if the location to which the new information is to be stored is protected. If the table location is protected, the new information is not stored in the table. Rather, the new information is simply passed on to the simulator.
US08086436B2
A deployment activity model is automatically generated from a deployment topology model. The operations to automatically generate the deployment activity model may be visible or “under the covers.” Regardless of visibility, a deployment model tool traverses a representation (e.g., one or more data structures) of the one or more diagrams of the deployment topology model. The deployment model tool begins creating preliminary representations of a deployment activity model until representation of a valid deployment activity model is created. Although the preliminary representations (assuming the first traversal attempt of the deployment topology model is unsuccessful) are discarded in some embodiments, other embodiments store the representations of the preliminary representations for analysis (e.g., analysis for the tool to learn, analysis to discover values for automatically defining attributes, etc.).
US08086434B2
LED illumination systems are formed with a suitable choice of LED and/or heatsink, such that an optimum operating power is identified using computer modeling for a desired output luminous flux, given the constraints of the rated power of the LED and the heatsink.
US08086432B2
A molecular motor in which multiple concentric cylinders (or nested cones) rotate around a common longitudinal axis. Opposing complementary surfaces of the cylinders or cones are coated with complementary motor protein pairs (such as actin and myosin). The actin and myosin interact with one another in the presence of ATP to rotate the cylinders or cones relative to one another, and this rotational energy is harnessed to produce work. The concentration of ATP and the number of nested cylinders or cones can be used to control the rotational speed of the motor. The length of the cylinders can also be used to control the power generated by the motor. In another embodiment, the molecular motor includes at least two annular substrates wherein one annular substrate is coated with a first motor protein and the other annular substrate is coated with a second motor protein. The first and second motor proteins interact with each other to move the second annular relative to the first annular substrate.
US08086430B2
The present invention uses spring models to position a finite element occupant model within a pre-simulation. Initially, a starting position and a final position for the finite element occupant model are determined. A first end of each of a plurality of spring models are attached at a first end to one or more components of the finite element occupant model in its starting position. The motion of the second end of each spring model is prescribed using positioning parameters and/or properties of each spring model are specified using spring parameters so that each attachment point is pulled to its final position through tension on the spring models. The specified positioning parameters and/or spring parameters describe how each spring model repositions the components of the finite element occupant model from the starting position to the final position.
US08086427B2
A method of designing hearing aid molds is disclosed whereby two shapes corresponding to graphical images of ear impressions are registered with each other to facilitate joint processing of the hearing aid design. In a first embodiment, a first graphical representation of a first ear impression is received and a feature, such as the aperture of the ear impression, is identified on that graphical model. A first vector is generated that represents the orientation and shape of that first feature. The three-dimensional translation and rotation of that first vector are determined that are necessary to align the first vector with a second vector representing the orientation and a shape of a feature, once again such as the aperture, of a second ear impression. In another embodiment, this alignment is then refined by minimizing the sum of the distances between points on the first and second graphical representations.
US08086426B2
A method of processing seismic data representing a physical system, the method comprising a difference between first and second seismic data representing the system in first and second states, respectively, and inverting the difference in accordance with a parameterized model of the physical system to obtain changes in the parameters of the model.
US08086425B2
Autonomous fitness for continuing service assessment equipment interacts with the operator through natural speech, voice and sound and provides active failure prevention through automatic and/or continuous fitness for service assessment of a material under evaluation. The equipment comprises at least one computer and a material features acquisition system operable to detect a plurality of material features. The features are then evaluated according to rules that capture the multidiscipline knowledge of experts and are already inputted into the computer. The computer iterations are processed until an acceptable conclusion is made regarding the condition of the material under evaluation.
US08086423B2
A diagnostic tools and methods are disclosed. The diagnostic tool is configured or operable to nominate a commonly connected component in a target system as being faulty if more than a pre-determined number of active components connected to the commonly connected component appear faulty.
US08086422B2
The distribution states of defects are analyzed on the basis of the coordinates of defects detected by an inspection apparatus to classify them into a distribution feature category, or any one of repetitive defect, congestion defect, linear distribution defect, ring/lump distribution defect and random defect. In the manufacturing process for semiconductor substrates, defect distribution states are analyzed on the basis of defect data detected by an inspection apparatus, thereby specifying the cause of defect in apparatus or process.
US08086408B1
A method for positioning a wire having nodes and streamers is provided herein. The wire can be secured to tow lines secured to a floating vessel for detecting near surface geology formations. The method can use in-water sensors deployed proximate to the wire near the tow lines, and a processor with data storage in communication with the in-water sensors. The method can use a data array, a library of data formats, a library of wires, a library of preset limits, and a network. The method can include receiving sensor information, filtering sensor information, verifying filtered signals, constructing and modifying a mathematical model, obtaining a list of coordinates, constructing a real-time display of the wire, identifying a location of at least one streamer, transmitting alarms, creating a trend analysis over time and event-by-event, and creating a log file using the industry standard data formats.
US08086377B2
The present invention provides a suspension control apparatus capable of an excellent vibration control by a model thereof designed to incorporate nonlinearity and a time-lag element of a control damper. The present invention employs the backstepping method which is one of nonlinear control methods, and is designed so as to incorporate the nonlinearity of a damper 4. In addition, a nonlinear controller 5 uses a damping force Fu obtained by expressing the dynamics of a damping force characteristic variable portion [damping force Fu(v, i)] by a first-order lag system, so as to compensate the dynamics of the damper 4, whereby a control system is formed so as to incorporate the time-lag element of the control damper. As a result, it is possible to reduce time lag, and to practically adjust a control force according to the characteristics of the control damper.
US08086375B2
A method for adjusting sensitivity of a load detecting device of a seat for a vehicle includes a seat assembling step for assembling the seat with plural load sensors assembled, a zero point adjusting step for obtaining a non-load output value by totaling output values of the load sensors when no load is applied on the seat and memorizing the non-load output value in a memory of a processing device, an adjusted output value calculating step for obtaining an adjusted output value by subtracting the non-load output value from a total of the output values of the load sensors when a predetermined load is applied on the seat, a trimming coefficient calculating step for calculating a trimming coefficient by dividing a designed output value by the adjusted output value, and a trimming coefficient memorizing step for memorizing the trimming coefficient in the memory of the processing device.
US08086374B2
There is provided a steering system allowing a comfortable steering operation even if a driver quickly turns a steering wheel when a transfer ratio is quickened in a low vehicle speed range. In the steering system that changes the transfer ratio of a steering angle of the steering wheel to a turning angle of a turning wheel by a variable transfer ratio mechanism and generates auxiliary power by an electric power steering unit, a variable transfer ratio mechanism controlling ECU has a switching section for switching a transfer ratio modulating mode of setting a rotational angle of a transfer ratio variable motor used in the variable transfer ratio mechanism so that the transfer ratio is set at a target transfer ratio corresponding to vehicle speed with a steering torque modulating mode of reducing an electric current for driving the motor so as to reduce steering power of the steering wheel.
US08086373B2
An electric power steering apparatus includes a steering assist section that applies assist force to a steering system of a vehicle to assist operation of a steering wheel performed by a driver. The steering assist section is actuated by a motor. When there is an abnormality in a steering torque sensor, the supply of drive power to the motor is controlled such that a converted steering angle, which is obtained by converting the rotational angle of the motor, follows a target steering angle, which is computed based on the steering angle of the steering wheel by operation performed by the driver.
US08086367B2
A system and method for estimating vehicle lateral velocity and surface coefficient of friction using front and rear axle lateral force versus side-slip angle tables and sensor measurements. The sensor measurements include lateral acceleration, yaw-rate, longitudinal speed and steering angle of the vehicle. The method includes calculating front and rear axle lateral forces and front and rear side-slip angles on the axles of the vehicle. The method also includes identifying two equations from the calculated lateral forces and the vehicle measurements. The method provides tables that identify a relationship between the calculated front and rear axle lateral forces and the front and rear side-slip angles, and determines the vehicle lateral velocity and surface coefficient of friction from the tables.
US08086366B2
A programmable actuator having multiple programmable functions is provided. The programmable actuator may be used on an off-board tool. In accordance with an embodiment, an off-board tool, OBT, including a user-defined programmable actuator is provided. In accordance with another embodiment, an OBT includes a processor, an internal memory, a programmable actuator, program logic and perform function logic. In accordance with yet another embodiment, a method of actuating performance of a user-defined series of functions for a OBT is provided. The method includes the step of actuating a programmable actuator of the OBT with a single actuating action.
US08086362B2
Method and device for assisting the piloting of an aircraft. The device (1) comprises means (4) for determining, using a roll instruction and measured current values of external characteristics and of flight characteristics of the aircraft, a predicted path which is a flight path having a constant roll angel, taking account of the effect of the wind.
US08086354B2
Methods, systems and apparatus for optimizing consumption of one or more resources are presented. For example, a method may be implemented on a processor device and includes obtaining user preferences for the consumption of resources that include water and electricity, predicting the consumption of, and a first metric for the consumption of, the resources for each of a plurality of first time periods, determining a projected second metric for the consumption of the resources during a second time period according to the predicted consumption and the predicted first metric, and optimizing the consumption of the resources according to the projected second metric and the user preferences. The second time period includes the plurality of first time periods. The first metric is associated with the user preferences and at least one of the plurality of first time periods. The second metric indicates full or partial projected attainment of the preferences during the second time period.
US08086349B2
System and method of dispensing disc-based media and other consumer products. A user can interact with an automated business system to select disc-based media for rental and/or purchase. The automated business system can retrieve the selection from the interior of the automated business system and dispense the selection through a port to the user. The automated business system can retrieve the selection from the port in a return process.
US08086347B2
A targeted product distribution system is described herein with respect to an exemplary management of product flow through a distribution center. Specifically, the system and method described herein is directed to the management and display of direct and easily-understood instructions, such that average individuals, as well as those with mental disabilities, will be able to contribute equally to the overall process.
US08086345B2
A targeted product distribution system is described herein with respect to an exemplary management of product flow through a distribution center. Specifically, the system and method described herein is directed to the management and display of direct and easily-understood instructions, such that average individuals, as well as those with mental disabilities, will be able to contribute equally to the overall process.
US08086343B2
A storage device processing system that includes at least one automated transporter, at least one rack accessible by the at least one automated transporter, and multiple test slots housed by the at least one rack. Each test slot is configured to receive a storage device for testing. The storage device processing system includes a conveyor arranged in a loop around and being accessible by the at least one automated transporter. The conveyor receives and transports the storage device thereon. The at least one automated transporter is configured to transfer the storage device between the conveyor and one of the test slots of the at least one rack.
US08086342B2
The tension is modulated by a weft-braking device controlled by a tension control block programmed for comparing the measured tension with a reference tension, and for transmitting a braking level signal to the weft-braking device, which braking level signal is adapted to minimize the difference between the measured tension and the reference tension. The yarn consumption speed is calculated, then the yarn consumption speed is compared with a predetermined threshold speed, and if the calculated consumption speed overcomes the predetermined threshold value, the tension control block is enabled, while, if the calculated consumption speed is lower than the threshold value, the tension control block is disabled and the last signal generated by the latter is maintained as braking signal, until the yarn consumption speed overcomes again the threshold value.
US08086340B2
Distance meters measure distances from a reference position to a first area including an upper pitch circle portion and a second area including a lower pitch circle portion. Center coordinates of the hub is calculated based on respective center coordinates of two hub bolts included within the first and second areas. Coordinates of three points defining apexes of a triangle are acquired. Inclination angle of the hub relative to a vertical plane is calculated based on the coordinates of the three points, and an orientation of each of the hub bolts is calculated based on the center coordinates of the hub and the center coordinates of the hub bolt.
US08086335B2
Audio data are played back by a personal computer a relationship with a playback process recognized easily. Displays showing the contents of play lists are arranged and displayed so that the contents become continuous in sequence in a playback sequence from content that is currently being played back from a display of an operation element that causes an image of a playback process to appear or from a display showing the content which is currently being played back. When the playback of one piece of content of one play list from among a plurality of play lists is terminated and one piece of content of an other play list is played back, at least the content that is currently being played back and content to be subsequently played back are displayed so that the contents can be distinguished.
US08086314B1
Devices, systems and methods are described which control blood pressure, nervous system activity, and neurohormonal activity by activating baroreceptors. By selectively and controllably activating baroreceptors, the present invention reduces excessive blood pressure, sympathetic nervous system activity and neurohormonal activity, thereby minimizing their deleterious effects on the heart, vasculature and other organs and tissues. A baroreceptor activation device is positioned near a low-pressure baroreceptor, preferably in the venous system, heart, or pulmonary vasculature.
US08086311B2
Methods and systems for constructing a comprehensive history for an IMD are disclosed. The method includes interrogating an implantable medical device (IMD) with an interrogating external programmer device (EPD), and comparing a unique signature associated with the interrogating EPD to a stored signature, associated with a particular programmer device that most immediately previously programmed the IMD, in memory of the IMD. If the unique signature of the interrogating programmer device is not the same as the stored signature, the method includes recording the stored signature in the interrogating EPD. The method may optionally include replacing the stored signature in the IMD memory with the unique signature of the interrogating EPD if the interrogating EPD programs the IMD. A comprehensive history for the IMD may be constructed by tracing the values in the IMD and the programmer databases.
US08086303B2
The disclosed method analyzes cardiac electrophysiological signals, including ECG and internal cardiac electrograms, based on multi-level symbolic complexity calculation and multi-dimensional mapping. The results may be used to objectively identify cardiac disorders, differentiate cardiac arrhythmias, characterize pathological severities, and predict life-threatening events. Multi-level symbolization and calculation of the electrophysiological signal is used provide better reliability and analysis resolution for identifying and characterizing cardiac disorders. Adaptive analysis of the cardiac signal complexity enables calculation efficiency and reliability with high SNR, and with low calculation volume and power consumption. One dimension (time or frequency domain) and multi-dimension symbolic analysis is used to provide more information of cardiac pathology and high risk rhythm transition to doctors.
US08086296B2
Disclosed herein are methods for modifying electrical currents in brain circuits through the simultaneous use of focused ultrasound pulse (FUP) and an existing brain-imaging system, such as a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) system. The methods are used for research, treatment and diagnosis of psychiatric, neurological, and neuroendocrine disorders whose biological mechanisms include brain circuits. The methods include the simultaneous steps of applying FUP to a live neuronal circuit within a brain and monitoring a brain image produced by a brain imaging system during the application of FUP.
US08086293B2
A catheter includes an outer jacket, a shaft member, a transition member and a core member. The outer jacket has a first interior passage at a proximal end and a second interior passage at a distal end. The shaft member is arranged within the outer jacket. The transition member is fixedly secured to the shaft member and includes a window. The core member is fixedly secured to the transition member. The window in the transition member allows communication between the first interior passage and the second interior passage.
US08086290B2
A sliding cradle in a mobile terminal has a body housing, and a sliding and pivotable housing adapted to rest in a slanting position on the body housing after being slid on the body housing. The sliding cradle comprises a first member fastened to the body housing, a second member fastened to the sliding and pivotable housing, and a sliding guide part arranged between the first and second members to guide the sliding movement of the sliding and pivotable housing. The sliding guide part has a pivot for pivoting the second member apart from the first member. A fixture member is fastened to the first member to face the sliding guide part. A pivot control device is connected to the first and second members to substantially prevent the sliding and pivotable housing from pivoting during the sliding movement and to enable the sliding and pivotable housing to pivot upon completion of the sliding movement.
US08086265B2
A mobile communication device is configured to sense a plurality of ambient characteristics using a plurality of sensors. In an embodiment, one or more of the plurality of sensors, such as microphone or camera, can be used for other functions of the mobile communication device. The mobile communication device adjusts one or more user interface characteristics of the mobile communication device based on the sensed plurality of ambient characteristics. The mobile communication device thereby provides for automatic adjustment of various user interface characteristics based on the ambient conditions of the environment around the mobile communication device.
US08086263B2
Double transformer balun for maximum PA (Power Amplifier) power. A novel approach is presented herein by which conversion from a differential signal to single-ended signal may be achieved using a double transformer balun design. The secondary coils of the double transformer balun also operate as a choke for the PA supply voltage. The secondary coils can operate as an RF (Radio Frequency) trap or choke to keep any AC (Alternating Current) signal components and to pass any DC (Direct Current) components. By using a double transformer balun design, relatively thinner tracks may be employed thereby ensuring a high degree of electromagnetic coupling efficiency and high performance. Also, these relatively thinner tracks consume a relatively small amount of space on the die. The double transformer balun design also includes a matching Z (impedance) block that is operable to match the Z of an antenna or line that the PA is driving.
US08086262B2
To provide an information terminal device contributing to prevention of an operation not intended by a user. A communication management unit (512) of an SVG processing unit (510) displays an image (confirmation image) for requesting a user to perform a confirmation input to confirm whether to be connected to the network before performing network connection according to the definition of a link definition unit (630) in the SVG content (600). When the user rejects the network connection, the link defined by the link definition unit (630) is not referenced. On the other hand, when the user permits the network connection, the communication management unit (512) requests the data of the address defined by the link definition unit (630) from the HTTP server (10) or the like specified in the address. Upon reception of a response to this, a communication state display unit (513) displays the data reception state according to the report from a communication state report unit (121).
US08086256B2
A scheduling method for transmitting an uplink signal from a mobile station to a base station comprises transmitting the uplink signal in a first scheduling mode in which the mobile station can transmit the uplink data without permission of the base station if an uplink communication state between the base station and the mobile station is higher than or equal to a predetermined quality; and transmitting the uplink signal in a second scheduling mode in which the permission is necessary for the mobile station transmitting the uplink data if the uplink communication state is lower than the predetermined quality.
US08086251B2
Generally, the present invention provides accessories for one or more portable electronic devices (PEDs) and related methods. An accessory includes a station that can support a PED. The PED is also equipped to generate an action signal, above and beyond the regular signal for notifying the user about a wireless signal that is received from a remote transmitter. When the station senses the action signal, it further generates a human-perceptible indication to help notify the user, who might have walked away. The human-perceptible indication can include, a call sound, a light signal, etc. This way, for example, when the PED is only vibrating, the call sound can be such that the station rings like a regular home telephone, and/or the light signal can be such that the station lights up without distracting coworkers as much. As such, the user can always keep the PED at the “Silent” annunciation mode.
US08086246B2
Provided are a system, program, and data structures for providing user location information with a personal information manager program. Position coordinates of a wireless device associated with a user are generated, along with time information indicating a time when the position coordinates were generated. The position coordinates and time information are processed to determine geographic locations and associated time periods. For each determined geographical location and associated time period, the user of the wireless device was located at the geographical location for the associated time period. A request is received for information on the user for a selected time interval. A determination is then made of time periods associated with geographic locations that are within the selected time interval. Information is then generated on the geographic locations and associated time periods that are within the selected time interval.
US08086240B2
A data communication system wherein four independent frequencies provide for transmissions between a communication controller and at least one node including a first node. The four independent frequencies include: an aligning signal sent on a first frequency, a request signal in a slot allocated to a first node for transmitting reserved request sent on a second frequency, a authorization signal sent on a third frequency and data packets sent over a fourth frequency. In addition, data packets sent over the data communication system can include information related to a count value and termination indication information for determining whether the message has been completely received.
US08086228B2
A method and apparatus for identifying a code group representative of a predetermined number of base stations is disclosed. A chip offset within a frame is input into a first correlator. A plurality of samples of chips at which a primary synchronization code (PSC) has been detected are input into the first correlator. Output of the first correlator is multiplied by the complex conjugate of the PSC to obtain a magnitude for the signals being transmitted at the chips inputted into the first correlator. The magnitude is summed over four frames. The summed signals view of a predetermined set of decision variables is evaluated. A case number, a code group, a timeslot location, and a system frame number are determined based on the evaluation and noise estimation.
US08086224B2
Location-blocking and identity-blocking services that can be commercially offered by a service promoter, e.g., a cellular service provider or a web advertiser. In the identity-blocking service, the service promoter may disclose the current physical location of a mobile subscriber (i.e., a cellular phone operator) to a third party (e.g., a web advertiser) subscribing to the identity-blocking service. However, the service promoter may not send any identity information for the mobile subscriber to the third party. On the other hand, in the location-blocking service, the service promoter may disclose the mobile subscriber's identity information to the third party, but not the current physical location of the mobile subscriber. Blocking of the mobile subscriber's identity or location information may be desirable for privacy reasons, to comply with a government regulation, or to implement a telecommunication service option selected by the mobile subscriber. However, in the case of the mobile subscriber requesting emergency help, the service promoter may not block identity and/or location information. Instead, the service promoter may send all such information to the emergency service provider (e.g., the police or a hospital).
US08086212B2
An integrated circuit includes an on-chip filter component that forms a programmable filter with the at least one off-chip filter component. An RF receiver generates inbound data in response to a received signal from the programmable filter.
US08086209B2
A mixer such as an I/Q mixer, having an amplifier having first and second inputs and an output. The first input corresponding to, for example, an I input, and the second input corresponding to, for example, a Q input. The mixer also including a multiple way (M-way) switch having a single input in communication with the output of the amplifier; a frequency control input; and at least four outputs. The frequency control input is configured to receive a periodic signal, and the M-way switch is configured to switch a signal received on the single input to each of the at least four outputs at a switching frequency that is determined by the periodic signal. The M-way switch is operable to switch the input signal received on the single input to each of the at least four outputs in a serial fashion.
US08086208B2
A passive wireless receiver to receive an input signal and passively process the input signal to generate an output signal. An embodiment of the receiver includes an input circuit, a dynamic switching circuit, and a switch signal generator. The input circuit is configured to receive an input signal and produce a first output signal. The input circuit includes a passive network configured to condition the input signal. The dynamic switching circuit is configured to perform frequency translation on the first output signal. The switch signal generator is configured to drive the dynamic switching circuit to activate and deactivate the dynamic switching circuit at a sampling frequency that is controlled and stabilized by a frequency control circuit.
US08086201B2
A diversity receiving device includes two signal paths. Each path interfaces an antenna that receives a radio frequency signal and an amplifier that amplifies the received radio frequency signal. A variable signal level attenuator in each path attenuates the amplified signal and receives current from current sources. The current sources are coupled to the amplifiers through variable signal level attenuators. The variable signal level attenuators are in parallel with controllable bypass lines which comprise variable resistance elements. The two signal paths are combined into a common path.
US08086200B2
The invention relates to methods by which radio signals can be transmitted to, and received by, a radio receiver such that the receiver consumes very little power from a battery or energy source. The invention is applicable not only to medical implants, but any application requiring a radio receiver to operate with very low power consumption.
US08086198B2
A broadcasting receiver suitable for receiving a broadcasting signal transmitted in an IBOC signal format, comprises: a channel seek directing means for directing to start a channel seeking operation that selects selectable channel in an order of frequency; a channel seek controlling means for starting and controlling the channel seeking operation in accordance with the direction of the channel seek directing means; and a multichannel determining means for determining whether a selected frequency channel is providing multichannel digital broadcasting or not; and wherein the channel seek controlling means selects a next subchannel in an order of identification code before searching for the next frequency channel, if it is determined by the multichannel determining means that the selected frequency channel is providing the multichannel digital broadcasting.
US08086197B2
A multi-channel receiver comprising an ADC and a multi-band, multi-channel selector. The ADC converts a broad-band multi-channel signal into a digital signal. The digital signal is then broken into sub-bands each containing a plurality of channels. A channel selector selects desired channels from the appropriate sub-band. The multi-channel receiver may deliver simultaneous channels equal to the number of channel selectors that have been implemented. The multi-channel receiver may be implemented on a single integrated circuit.
US08086192B2
Methods and systems for power control with optimum power efficiency with a multi-port distributed antenna are disclosed and may include selectively enabling one or more power amplifiers (PAs) coupled to the antenna. The selective enabling may be based on a desired output power radiated from the antenna, and the PAs may be coupled to ports on the antenna based on an output impedance of the PAs and a characteristic impedance of the ports. Each of the PAs may be configured for maximum efficiency in different power ranges. The power ranges may be inversely proportional to the output impedance of the PAs. The output power may be monitored utilizing a power detector, such as an envelope detector, coupled to the antenna. The antenna may be integrated on a chip with the one or more PAs or may be located external to the chip. The antenna may include a microstrip antenna.
US08086189B2
The present invention relates to a polar transmission method and a polar transmitter for transmitting phase and amplitude components derived from in-phase (I) and quadrature-phase (Q) components of an input signal. A first conversion is provided for converting the in-phase (I) and quadrature-phase (Q) components into the phase and amplitude components at a first sampling rate. Additionally, a second conversion is provided for converting the phase component into a frequency component, wherein the second conversion comprises a rate conversion for converting the first sampling rate into a lower second sampling rate at which the frequency component is provided. Thereby, the second sampling rate can be used as a lower update rate in a digitally controlled oscillator in order to save power or because of speed limitations, while the surplus phase samples obtain due to the higher first sampling rate enable better approximation of the phase component after the digitally controlled oscillator. This better approximation accounts for a cleaner spectrum around the synthesized channel.
US08086178B2
The present invention discloses a beam-forming method for realizing interference suppression, comprising steps of: a. performing channel estimation for an expected user signal and interference signal in signals received by an array antenna and obtaining array channel impulse responses of the expected user signal and the interference signal respectively; b. obtaining array correlation matrixes of the expected user signal and the interference signal respectively according to the array channel impulse responses obtained in step a; c. obtaining a new array correlation matrix of the interference signal according to relation between the expected user signal with the interference and noise; and d. computing a beam-forming weighting coefficient of the array antenna according to the array correlation matrix of the expected user signal obtained in step b and the new array correlation matrix of the interference signal obtained in step c. According to this method, strong interference signals can be suppressed and the direction of the formed beam will not deviate.
US08086176B2
An information processing apparatus including a plurality of elements each configured to perform an independent process, a controller configured to control the plurality of elements, and a front end shared by the plurality of elements and configured to perform near field communication with an external device. At a time of activation, the controller allocates, to the plurality of elements, different time slots for communication.
US08086174B2
A repeater mediates traffic between a network transceiver and a user transceiver in a wireless communication system. The repeater comprises a network unit that maintains a network link with the network transceiver, a user unit that maintains a user link with the user transceiver, a two-way communication pathway between the network unit and the user unit; that facilitate the communication of signals between the network transceiver and the user transceiver in autonomous repeater hops between the network transceiver and the network unit, between the user transceiver and the user unit, and between the network unit and the user unit, and beam-formers respectively coupled to the network unit and the user unit and adapted to communicate signals in an operating frequency band of the network and user transceivers and to control effective radiated power.
US08086173B2
A method for implementing a random access of a new access node and a system thereof are provided, which belong to a wireless communication field, and enable the new access node within the coverage of relay stations to implement the random access. In the application, when the new access node is located within the coverage of the relay stations, each of the relay stations notifies an access request sent from the new access node to a synchronization station via a report message, and the synchronization station compares the access request forwarded by each of the relay stations and the access request received by itself from the same new access node, selects a station with the best signal quality of the received access request, and implements the access of the new access node in accordance with the types of selected station and the synchronization station itself.
US08086169B2
A wireless communications network (100) includes various base stations (110) and subscriber-stations (114). The base stations each provide (602) broadcast content services to subscriber-stations over communication channels of one of the following types: 1) shared channels for use by multiple subscriber-stations, 2) individual channels each dedicated for use by an individual subscriber-station. In response to one or more prescribed condition changes (604), there is a switch (606) in the type of communications channel used to provide broadcast content services to one or more given subscriber-stations.
US08086167B2
Methods and apparatuses are disclosed for computer-based evaluation of a test-taker's performance with respect to a reward threshold. A performance assessment of the test taker can be standardized or customized, as well as relative or absolute. The system allows a parentally-controlled reward system such that children who reach specified objectives can claim an award that parents are confident was fairly and honestly earned without the parent being required to proctor the testing.
US08086161B2
An image forming apparatus includes a toner image forming unit for effecting an image forming operation to form toner image on a recording material, wherein the toner image comprises chromatic toner image components with different colors and a transparent toner image component overlaid thereon; a fixing unit for effecting a fixing operation to heat and fix the toner image on the recording material; a switching unit for switching, in accordance with information relating to a maximum toner amount per unit area in a zone in which the transparent toner component is present, operations to a mode in which the formation of the toner image is effected through a plurality of such image forming operations, and the fixing of the toner image is effected through a plurality of such fixing operations.
US08086159B2
A fixing device and an image forming apparatus including the fixing device. The fixing device includes a heat source, an endless, flexible fixing member to fix a toner image by heating and melting the toner image onto a recording medium, a pressure member to press against the fixing member, a stationary facing member to face an inner surface of the fixing member and heat the fixing member while contacting the pressure member via the fixing member at a nip portion formed between the fixing member and the pressure member, and a reinforcement member to reinforce the facing member at the nip portion by contacting an inner surface of the facing member in a fixed manner.
US08086144B2
A developing apparatus includes a developing roller and a feed roller accommodated in a developing chamber of a developing frame, a first agitating member accommodated in a storing chamber of the developing frame for agitating the developer by rotating in a prescribed rotational direction while moving the developer in the rotational direction, a second agitating member accommodated in a developer accommodation chamber of a developer cartridge, a wall portion provided between the storing chamber and the developer accommodation chamber and formed with an opening for circulating the developer between the storing chamber and the developer accommodation chamber to face the storing chamber on a position above the upper end portion of the feed roller, and a conveyance member arranged between the opening of the wall portion and the developer accommodation chamber for conveying the developer in an axial direction of the developing roller.
US08086139B2
A developing cartridge that maintains a pressing condition to press a developer carrier against the image carrier is described. The developing cartridge may include a coil spring that presses the developer carrier against the image carrier. The coil spring may include a handle that transmits a pressing force to the coil spring via the contacting member. By doing so, every time the developing cartridge is replaced, a new coil spring and handle can be provided for the color laser printer with the developing cartridge attached. Therefore, a constant pressure by the coil spring can be continuously maintained. Thus, a preferable pressure condition of the developer carrier against the image carrier can be continuously maintained.
US08086132B2
A charge roller wiper for photoconductor unit for forming a toner image in an image forming device. The photoconductor unit comprises a photoconductor drum, a charge roller and a first charge roller wiper. The photoconductor drum receives toner particles for forming the toner image that is transferred onto a media sheet. The charge roller charges the photoconductor drum. A first charge roller wiper is disposed substantially parallel to path along which the charge roller moves between a working position and a storage position. The first charge roller wiper is configured to peripherally contact and clean the charge roller when the charge roller assumes a working position. A second charge roller wiper may be provided adjacent the storage position and disposed substantially perpendicular to the first charge roller wiper and directly in the path along which the charge roller moves.
US08086126B2
An image forming apparatus comprises a developer carrier (101) for developing an electrostatic latent image by supplying an image carrier with developer inside a developer container (100); an electrode member (104) opposing the developer carrier (101) via a space accommodating the developer; an inverter (301); a transformer (302) for transforming an AC voltage from the inverter (301); a rectifying circuit (303) for rectifying the output of the transformer and generating a DC voltage for image formation; a DC voltage applying unit (306) for applying the AC voltage, which is output from the transformer, to the electrode member (104); and a developer remaining-amount detection unit (305) for detecting amount of developer remaining inside the developer container (100) based upon electrostatic capacitance between the developer carrier (101) and electrode member (104).
US08086120B2
A method and apparatus for predicting blade life in an image production device is disclosed. The method may include retrieving a number of print starts, a number of print cycles, a wear rate for print starts, and a wear rate for print cycles from a memory, calculating wear of a cleaning blade based on the number of print starts, the number of print cycles, the wear rate for print starts, and the wear rate for print cycles, wherein the wear rate for print starts and the wear rate for print cycles are weighed differently, determining if the calculated wear of the cleaning blade exceeds a predetermined threshold, wherein if it is determined that the calculated wear of the cleaning blade exceeds a predetermined threshold, sending a notification that the cleaning blade needs to be replaced.
US08086119B2
A fixing device includes a heating rotating body that is heated by a heater and rotates, a pressurizing rotating body that is in contact with a surface portion of the heating rotating body and rotates, and that forms a fixing portion, a pressing mechanism that presses the pressurizing rotating body against the heating rotating body and that uses a plurality of springs disposed on both end portions of the pressurizing rotating body in a direction of the second rotation shaft, and a switching mechanism that switches between a first pressing state in which first combination of springs selected from among the plurality of springs are maintained and a second pressing state in which second combination of springs selected from among the plurality of springs except the first combination of the springs are maintained.
US08086110B2
An optical communication system comprising a transmitter including a data register having a plurality of outputs, each output comprising a separate data channel, a plurality of signal processors, each signal processor corresponding to a data, a plurality of laser modules, each laser module coupled to an output of a corresponding signal processor, wherein each laser module modulates the modified signal from its corresponding data channel onto an optical carrier having a selected wavelength, and an optical multiplexer coupled to an output of all the laser modules. Each signal processor comprises a first input to receive a signal from the corresponding data channel and one or more additional inputs to receive a signal from one or more adjacent data channels, a control input to receive a control signal generated at a receiver based upon a monitored characteristic of the received signal from the corresponding data channel, and logic to modify a characteristic of the signal from the corresponding channel based upon the control signal and the signals from the one or more adjacent data channels.
US08086108B2
An optical transmission/reception device includes at least one light emitting portion and at least one light receiving portion on the same substrate. The light emitting portion includes at least a lower multilayer reflector and an active layer provided on the lower multilayer reflector. A metal layer including a plurality of opening portions is provided in an upper portion of the light emitting portion. Each of the opening portions has a size smaller than a light emission wavelength of the light emitting portion.
US08086104B2
In a dual rate gigabit passive optical network, an optical line termination (OLT) transmits a first rate (GPON) message frame interleaved with a second rate (NGPON) message frame. An unused ATM partition of the GPON message frame is provided with a header and payload portion of the NGPON message frame so that the message frame remains at a predetermined length required by the network.
US08086100B2
The optoelectronic transceiver includes an optoelectronic transmitter, an optoelectronic receiver, memory, and an interface. The memory is configured to store digital values representative of operating conditions of the optoelectronic transceiver. The interface is configured to receive from a host a request for data associated with a particular memory address, and respond to the host with a specific digital value of the digital values. The specific digital value is associated with the particular memory address received form the host. The optoelectronic transceiver may further include comparison logic configured to compare the digital values with limit values to generate flag values, wherein the flag values are stored as digital values in the memory. The flag values may include: a high temperature warning flag, a low temperature warning flag, a high internal supply voltage warning flag, a low internal supply voltage warning flag, a high transmitter bias current warning flag, a low transmitter bias current warning flag, a high transmitter power warning flag, a low transmitter bias warning flag; a high received optical power warning flag, and a low received optical power warning flag.
US08086094B2
An information recording control apparatus including: a selection section; a video acquiring section to acquire digital video data in a digital broadcast signal; an audio acquiring section to acquire digital audio data of a specific language selected on the selection section from the digital audio data of a plurality of languages in the digital broadcast signal; a video converting section to convert the acquired digital video data into an analog video signal; an audio converting section to convert the acquired the digital audio data of specific language into an analog audio signal of the specific language; and an output section to output, to a recording device, the converted analog video signal, and the converted analog audio signal of the specific language.
US08086080B2
A multiwavelength switch is provided. The switch includes at least one optical input for receiving an optical beam and at least two optical outputs. A dispersion element receives the optical beam from the optical input and spatially separates the optical beam into a plurality of wavelength components. A collimating element is provided for collimating the plurality of wavelength components. An actuatable optical arrangement receives the collimated plurality of wavelength components from the collimating element. The actuatable optical arrangement includes a digital micromirror device (DMD) from which at least one wavelength component is reflected at least twice before being directed to a selected one of optical outputs.
US08086075B2
An image processing method for image conversion by combining two or more source values based on a mixing parameter to generate an output pixel value. A metric is calculated for a selected pixel at a given image field based on the directly preceding image field and a spatially interpolated version of the given image field at the selected pixel position. The selected pixel is categorized based on the metric as providing an indeterminate, unreliable, or reliable basis for a determination of motion at that pixel. The mixing parameter for the selected pixel is adjusted based on the categorization of the pixel.
US08086072B2
A system and method for capturing adjacent images includes an imaging device with a panorama manager that performs various procedures to manipulate one or more image parameters that correspond to adjacent frames of captured image data. An image-stitching software program may then produce a cohesive combined panorama image from the adjacent frames of image data by utilizing the manipulated image parameters.
US08086067B2
A technique for reducing noise in a digital video signal is disclosed. In one embodiment, the technique involves receiving a digital signal. The digital signal can be filtered thereby generating a filtered signal. The digital signal and the filtered signal can be mixed according to a composite blend map thereby generating an optimized signal. The optimized signal can be provided as an output.
US08086055B2
An apparatus includes at least one general purpose register and at least one special purpose register and an execution unit that executes at least two instructions in parallel, to decode variable length codes, wherein each of the instructions share use of the at least one general purpose register and the at least one special purpose register. In one example, a processor stores variable length code information among a plurality of general purpose registers and generates decoded variable length code information by decoding the at least one variable length code. The processor also stores the decoded variable length code information among the plurality of general purpose registers.
US08086054B2
A method is provided for decoding a data stream representing an object with at least three dimensions, associated with a basic mesh including of an assembly of facets defined by an assembly of vertices and ridges, and with wavelet coefficients corresponding to the local modifications of the basic mesh, indexed each by a vertex of the basic mesh. For at least some wavelet coefficients of the data stream, the method includes the following steps: determining an orientation of an edge bearing the vertex indexing the wavelet coefficients, called an orientation of the wavelet coefficient; and determining, based on the orientation, information for locating in the basic mesh at least one child of the wavelet coefficient, distinct locating rules being associated with each orientation, so as to extract a data stream of at least some of the wavelet coefficients, associated each with locating information.
US08086050B2
A multi-resolution segmentation and fill technique is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method comprises generating a plurality of layers using image data from multiple resolutions, generating a mask describing compositing of the plurality of layers to obtain the image, and filling pixels in each of the plurality of layers where the pixels being filled are those that do not contribute to the image when the plurality of layers are composited.
US08086048B2
This patent discloses a system to compile a landmark image search result. The system may determine a rank of each image within a visual cluster according to at least one of a low-level self-similarity score, a low-level discriminative modeling score, and a point wise linking score. The landmark image search result may be compiled as a function of the rank of each image.
US08086046B2
An image corresponding to image data obtained by imaging by a camera is divided into a plurality of image pieces and each of the image pieces is subjected to a color analysis process, a fractal dimension analysis process, and an artificial object amount recognition process. According to a combination of the results obtained by the three processes, a part of a landscape contained in each of the image pieces is classified and the entire characteristic of the landscape contained in the image is judged according to the classification result.
US08086042B2
Methods and systems for evaluating a performance installment in a building construction include preparing a first image of the building construction, implementing the performance installment in the building construction, preparing a second image of the building construction subsequent to or during implementation of the performance installment, and evaluating the performance installment based on a comparison between the first image and the second image. Performance installments include weatherization measures such as the application of thermal insulation and air-sealing. Related methods and systems for calculating a performance plan for a building construction include transmitting analysis information to a processor, and determining the performance plan based on the analysis information. The analysis information may include a thermal signature, an airflow signature, an acoustic signature, or a vibrational signature.
US08086041B2
A pattern evaluation method includes: generating first array data from edge data on a pattern to be evaluated, the edge data on the pattern to be evaluated being shape data including edge points of the pattern to be evaluated; generating second array data from edge data on a reference pattern, the edge data on the reference pattern including edge points of the reference pattern which serves as an inspection standard of the pattern to be evaluated; subjecting each component of the second array data to array conversion processing, the array conversion processing being designed to convert a value of the component of the second array data into a function value of a value of a distance from that component to the edge point closest thereto, thereby generating third array data; executing arithmetic processing between the first array data and the third array data to generate fourth array data; and using a component of the fourth array data to calculate a numerical value representative of an relation between the pattern to be evaluated and the reference pattern.
US08086034B2
Systems and methods for reducing color artifacts in digital images. A disclosed embodiment includes averaging original color pixel values of a subject pixel in a first color domain (e.g., red, green, and blue values when operating on demosaiced pixels in the Bayer domain) with respective color pixel values of adjacent pixels, converting the average color pixel values to a second color domain, determining replacement color pixel values in the first color domain based on the color pixel values in the second color domain, and replacing the original color pixel values of the subject pixel with the replacement color pixel values. Embodiments can be repeated for some or all pixels in a digital image to reduce color artifacts across a portion of the image or the entire image, and can be performed during or at any time after demosaicing.
US08086028B2
The invention relates to a method of converting a set of words into a three-dimensional scene description, which may then be rendered into three-dimensional images. The invention may generate arbitrary scenes in response to a substantially unlimited range of input words. Scenes may be generated by combining objects, poses, facial expressions, environments, etc., so that they represent the input set of words. Poses may have generic elements so that referenced objects may be replaced by those mentioned in the input set of words. Likewise, a character may be dressed according to its role in the set of words. Various constraints for object positioning may be declared. The environment, including but not limited to place, time of day, and time of year, may be inferred from the input set of words.
US08086020B2
A computer-implemented method for analyzing impurities of an object is provided. The method includes selecting a region from an image of the object, pre-treating the region to calculate a threshold, processing the region and deleting the points from an outer layer of the region. The method further includes setting a starting point and search directions, determining a point before a first boundary point as an origin of the region and searching the next boundary points if the first boundary point has been searched. The method also includes searching all the boundary points in the region, forming an impurity if the last boundary point coincides with the first boundary point, seed filling the impurity and calculating an area value, and comparing the area value with an allowable area value to determine whether the impurity satisfies impurity specifications.
US08086016B2
A cell image analysis apparatus and method for judging, quickly and with good reproducibility, the presence or absence of a membrane translocation reaction occurring in a cell owing to application of an arbitrary stimulus to the cell using a fluorescence microscope. The inventive apparatus has: an element acquiring as an image data a fluorescence microscopic image of a cell after the application of the stimulus; an element determining a region occupied by the cell in the fluorescence image of the cell; an element determining a contour line of the cell having a width of a predetermined number of pixels from a periphery of the region occupied by the cell; and an element judging the presence or absence of the membrane translocation reaction based on a brightness value on the contour line of the cell and a brightness value in an inside of the contour line of the cell.
US08086015B2
The present invention is methods for processing medical images so as to remove certain effects of the physical characteristics of the object being imaged and/or of the apparatus used to form the images. The invention further provides for the formation of a standardized image from the processed image and for the use of the standardized image or the processed image in the training of computer-aided detection/diagnosis algorithms. These algorithms may then be used to detect abnormalities in other standardized or processed images derived from any of a variety of image acquisition systems.
US08086009B2
To allow the correspondence between a region having different susceptibility and a tissue structure to be easily visible, a phase change weighted image is produced by use of a phase of each pixel of phase change image data and a color bar, and an absolute value image is produced by use of an absolute value of each pixel of absolute value image data and a grayscale. Then, a phase change fused image in which the phase change weighted image and absolute value image are overlaid on each other is displayed.
US08085995B2
A method includes identifying a named entity, retrieving images associated with the named entity, and using a face detection algorithm to perform face detection on the retrieved images to detect faces in the retrieved images. At least one representative face image from the retrieved images is identified, and the representative face image is used to identify one or more additional images representing the at least one named entity.
