main Automating predictive maintenance for automobiles By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 26 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT An approach is provided to automate predictive vehicle maintenance. In the approach, a vehicle's information handling system receives vehicle data transmissions from a number of other vehicles in geographic proximity to the vehicle. Both the vehicle and the other vehicles correspond to various vehicle types that are used to identify those other vehicles that are similar to the vehicle. The sets of received vehicle data transmissions that are received to similar vehicles are analyzed with respect to a plurality of vehicle maintenance data corresponding to the vehicle. The analysis of the vehicle data transmissions resulting in predictive vehicle maintenance recommendations pertaining to the first vehicle. Full Article
main Fabrication method of multi-domain vertical alignment pixel structure By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 12 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EDT A fabrication method of a multi-domain vertical alignment pixel structure includes providing a substrate, forming a gate on the substrate, and forming an insulating layer on the substrate. A channel layer and a semiconductor layer are formed on the insulating layer. A source, a drain, and a capacitor-coupling electrode are formed. A passivation layer is formed to cover the source, the drain, a part of the channel layer, and a part of the semiconductor layer. A via hole is formed in the passivation layer to expose the drain, and a trench is formed in the passivation layer and the insulating layer. A lateral etched groove on the sidewall of the trench is formed to expose the side edge of the semiconductor layer. A first pixel electrode and a second pixel electrode are formed on the passivation layer at both sides of the trench, respectively. Full Article
main Methods and systems for global knowledge sharing to provide corrective maintenance By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 26 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT Described herein are methods and systems for providing corrective maintenance using global knowledge sharing. A method to provide corrective maintenance with a CM system includes performing a query to generate a ranking of fixable causes based on factors (e.g., symptoms, configuration, test). The ranking may be determined based on a fixable cause percent match with the factors. The ranking of fixable causes may be associated with one or more solutions for each fixable cause. The ranking can be updated based on performing tests or solutions. Full Article
main Frequency domain bitmap triggering using color, density and correlation based triggers By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 16 Jul 2013 08:00:00 EDT An RF test and measurement device, including a front end for receiving a time-varying signal and a real-time engine for generating digital frequency domain spectrums based on the time-varying signal. The device also includes a memory subsystem containing a frequency domain bitmap which is updated through sequential receipt and storage of the digital frequency domain spectrums. The real time engine is further configured to monitor the frequency domain bitmap for occurrence of a signal characteristic, and in response to detection of the signal characteristic, cause a capture of the time-varying signal into a storage location of the RF test and measurement device. Full Article
main Main line wayside rail lubricating system with feedback By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 31 Jan 2006 08:00:00 EST To lubricate a length of track, a plurality of lubricating nozzles are provided. Each nozzle is fed by the output of a single positive displacement pump, and all the pumps are controlled by a computer. Vibration sensors, sound sensors, or L/V ratio sensors detect physical qualities which occur as a train passes a given point, and another detector measures the time between successive wheels on the truck of a car as it passes a given point to measure train speed. The computer compares the output readings measured by the detector to a table of outputs in its memory that are indicative of a lubricated track to determine if lubrication is needed. Full Article
main Machine main body and operating machine provided with same By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 14 Apr 2015 08:00:00 EDT A first panel includes an engaging section configured to engage with an engaged section so as to allow displacement of the engaged section according to swinging of a hood between a closed position and an open position and restrict the swinging of the hood in a state where an opening section is opened. The engaging section engages with the engaged section such that the engaged section is detachable by being displaced in a predetermined first direction. The machine main body further includes an auxiliary supporting section provided in a machine room and configured to restrict, by detachably supporting the engaged section detached from the engaging section, the swinging of the hood in a state where the opening section is opened. Full Article
main Rotary joint device, method of machining rotary joint device, and main shaft driving apparatus for machine tool including rotary joint device By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 14 Apr 2015 08:00:00 EDT A rotary joint device includes attachment grooves formed at positions in an outer peripheral surface of an outer cylinder, each attachment groove being formed so as to straddle a pair of adjacent cylindrical blocks and so as to be exposed from the outer peripheral surface of the outer cylinder, each attachment groove having a bottom surface that is machined to form a flat surface in a state in which the cylindrical blocks are combined, and positioning blocks corresponding to the attachment grooves on a one-to-one basis and each having an attachment phase that is uniquely set to a corresponding one of the attachment grooves in the axial direction and in a circumferential direction of the outer cylinder, each positioning block having an attachment surface corresponding to the bottom surface of a corresponding one of the attachment grooves, the attachment surface being machined so as to form a flat surface. Full Article
main Nacelle main frame structure and drive train assembly for a wind turbine By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 12 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT A nacelle main frame structure and drive train assembly (1) for being mounted on a tower (2) of a wind turbine. The nacelle main frame structure and drive train assembly (1) comprises a nacelle main frame structure (4) with a central part (6) connecting a first part (7) to a second part (8). The first part (7), during wind turbine operation and/or servicing activities, takes up loads of a rotor (9). A drive train (5) is at least partially located between the first and second parts (7, 8). The central part (6) of the main frame structure (4) is located substantially above at least part of the drive train (5) and is such that at least part of the drive train (5) can only be removed from the main frame structure (4) by lowering at least part of the drive train (5) from the main frame structure (4). Full Article
main Method of controlling rotating main field converter By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 10 Mar 2015 08:00:00 EDT A generator system includes a generator having a stationary portion and a rotating portion. An exciter field winding and a main armature winding are disposed on the stationary portion. An exciter armature winding and a main field winding are disposed on the rotating portion. A frequency demodulator is configured to extract a frequency modulated control signal from the exciter armature winding and to demodulate the frequency modulated control signal to generate a demodulated control signal. The generator includes a main field rotating power converter to selectively control current in the main field winding in response to the demodulated command signal. The generator system includes a generator control unit in electrical communication with the generator to monitor the output voltage at the main armature winding and to output an exciter current including the frequency modulated control signal to the exciter field winding based on the output voltage. Full Article
main Upper lateral structure for the occasional or continuous collection of main-drive or auxiliary electrical power by a land vehicle By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 17 Mar 2015 08:00:00 EDT The upper lateral collection structure (8) is mounted on a land vehicle (1), notably an urban public transport vehicle, and cooperates, for the purpose of overhead electrical power supply to the vehicle, with fixed contact slippers (16) located along its route. This structure comprises: a conducting track (14) arranged longitudinally (NEW) the upper lateral part of the vehicle and comprising a contact region (15) for the contact slipper; an electrical connection connecting the conducting track to the electrical circuit of the vehicle; an insulating support (24) on which the conducting track is mounted; a means of mechanical connection of the collecting structure to the vehicle; and a damping device which damps out the shocks resulting from the contact slipper and ensures satisfactory contact between the conducting track and the contact slipper. This invention is of benefit to the manufacturers of electrically powered public transport vehicles. Full Article
main Implement and method for preparing and maintaining dirt arena footing By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 03 Feb 2015 08:00:00 EST An implement is disclosed for smoothing grounds that include at least a compact base having a top surface and a lesser compact footing on top of the base. The implement includes a frame having a front portion, a central portion, a rear portion, and a width. Wheels are mounted for rotation directly to the frame, and tools are carried by the frame for engagement with the ground. The tools include a specially shaped cleaving blade connected to the rear portion of the frame by a tool support, which securely connects the cleaving blade at predetermined heights. The blade has a front shaving edge and a rear compressing edge. The blade extends straight across the width of the frame so as to maximize the drag displaced on the frame during use of the blade. Arrangement of the wheels directly on the frame provides optimal stabilization of the frame during operation of the blade. Full Article
main Sequence generation and transmission method based on time and frequency domain transmission unit By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 06 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST A method for generating/transmitting a transmission-unit symbol sequence is disclosed. In the case of transmission information, the information is modulated in time and frequency domains on the basis of a predetermined transmission unit (e.g., a transmission time interval TTI or slot), simultaneous transmission of the information is made, and then a transmission unit symbol is generated/transmitted. A transmission sequence is masked in each symbol contained in one transmission unit. Symbol-unit circular shift (cyclic shift) is applied to the masked result, so that transmission efficiency increases. A control signal transmission method for supporting a variety of formats and a signal transmission method based on a prime-length sequence are also provided. Full Article
main Arc extinguishing apparatus for ring main unit By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 26 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT An arc extinguishing apparatus for a ring main unit includes: a housing; a plurality of fixed contactor assemblies fixed to be protruded toward the center in the housing and formed by inserting a permanent magnet for arc extinguishing by a magnetic force between a pair of main circuit fixed contacts; a plurality of earthing fixed contactors fixed to be protruded toward the center in the housing and installed to be spaced apart from the fixed contactor assemblies at a predetermined angle; a 3-phases common rotational shaft installed to be rotatable at the center of the housing; and a rotatable movable contactor assembly having a plurality of puffer guide plate sections having openings with a narrow opening width to accelerate the velocity of flow of insulating gas to extinguish arc by blowing it, and rotatable to a circuit closing position, an earthing position, and a circuit opening position. Full Article
main Web assembly for making and maintaining a contour of a baseball or a softball glove By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 28 Oct 2014 08:00:00 EDT A web assembly can be used for making and maintaining a contour of a baseball or softball glove. The web assembly comprises a plurality of horizontal straps comprising a top strap and a bottom strap mechanically coupled to a plurality of vertical straps comprising a left strap and a right strap. A right durable strap and left durable strap are mechanically coupled to at least one horizontal strap where the at least one horizontal strap is further mechanically coupled to the right strap and the left strap. In this manner, a user can wrap the web assembly around the glove and affix the right durable strap to the left durable strap with a hook and loop fastener, and allowing for the straps to deform slightly to make and maintain the contour of the glove. Full Article
main Silk screen printing device with one main actuator By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 19 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT A device (1) for printing an impression by silk screen printing on at least one object (3), comprising of: a chassis (27); an object holder module (5) being movable relative to the chassis along a direction of pressing (Oz); a print head (7) including a screen holder module (29) and a squeegee holder module (31), the print head being movable relative to the chassis between an operating position close to the object holder module, and a maintenance position away from the object holder module, and an actuator (8) having a first part (125) and a second part (127) that is movable relative to the first part (125), the actuator (8) being adapted, in a first mode of operation, to be supported on the chassis by the first part and capable of moving the print head from the operating position to the maintenance position by a movement of the second part. The actuator is adapted, in a second mode of operation, to be supported on the chassis by the second part and is capable of moving the object holder module along the direction of pressing relative to the chassis by a movement of the first part. Full Article
main PREAMBLE SYMBOL GENERATION AND RECEIVING METHOD, AND FREQUENCY-DOMAIN SYMBOL GENERATION METHOD AND DEVICE By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Thu, 29 Jun 2017 08:00:00 EDT Provided are a preamble symbol generation method and receiving method, and a relevant frequency-domain symbol generation method and a relevant device, characterized in that the method comprises: generating a prefix according to a partial time-domain main body signal truncated from a time-domain main body signal; generating the hyper prefix according to the entirety or a portion of the partial time-domain main body signal; and generating time-domain symbol based on at least one of the cyclic prefix, the time-domain main body signal and the hyper prefix, the preamble symbol containing at least one of the time-domain symbols. Therefore, using the entirety or a portion of a certain length of a time-domain main body signal as a prefix, it is possible to implement coherent detection, which solves the issues of performance degradation with non-coherent detection and differential decoding failure under complex frequency selective fading channels; and generating a hyper prefix based on the entirety or a portion of the above truncated time-domain main body signal enables the generated preamble symbol to have sound fractional frequency offset estimation performance and timing synchronization performance. Full Article
main DELAY SPAN CLASSIFICATION FOR OFDM SYSTEMS USING SELECTIVE FILTERING IN THE FREQUENCY DOMAIN By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Thu, 29 Jun 2017 08:00:00 EDT It is proposed a method for delay spread classification of an orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing signal (multiplexing signal), and a receiving device and a telecommunication device connected thereto, the multiplexing signal comprising at least a first multiplexing symbol comprising at least two first reference symbols in the frequency domain, the method comprising: receiving at least the first multiplexing symbol; demodulating at least the first reference symbols of the first multiplexing symbol; determining at least a first autocorrelation value by autocorrelating the demodulated first reference symbols in the frequency domain; computing the filtered output energy of the autocorrelation and classifying the delay spread by mapping the ratio of the output energy for the filters. Full Article
main MAINTAINING DEPLOYMENT PIPELINES FOR A PRODUCTION COMPUTING SERVICE USING LIVE PIPELINE TEMPLATES By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Thu, 22 Jun 2017 08:00:00 EDT Techniques are presented for managing a deployment pipeline using an inheritable and extensible source code template—generally referred to as a live pipeline template (LPT). As described, live pipeline templates may be used to manage deployment pipelines which, in turn, are used to launch, maintain, and update the services and systems used to host and provide computing services. Full Article
main MAINTAINING AND UPDATING SOFTWARE VERSIONS VIA HIERARCHY By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Thu, 22 Jun 2017 08:00:00 EDT The described technology is directed towards maintaining and using a version-based hierarchy of software resources (e.g., file system files) to return version-specific responses to clients. A client sends its version information with each data request, and gets back a response based upon that version. Version changes are made by maintaining the current version of each software code resource and overriding the current version with a previous version for clients as needed. The technology allows updates (e.g., for new devices and new software resource versions) to be supported by inserting resources into the resource hierarchy and moving resources therein based upon versioning. A system based on deltas is also contemplated, in which only parts of a file may be changed relative to a different version, instead of overriding the entire file. Full Article
main DYNAMIC RECONNECT OF WORK PROCESSES IN A ZERO DOWNTIME MAINTENANCE PROCEDURE By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Thu, 29 Jun 2017 08:00:00 EDT The disclosure generally describes methods, software, and systems, including a method for updating an application. At least one application instance of an application is managed. Each application instance is associated with a plurality of executing work processes connected with a first database schema. A bridge database schema is generated that is related to the first database schema. The bridge database schema represents a copy of the first database schema and is generated in response to initiation of an update to the application. In response to determining that the generation of the bridge database schema is complete, for each of the plurality of work processes, a commit work action performed by the particular work process is determined. In response to determining performance of the commit work action, the particular work process is connected to the bridge database schema. Full Article
main Method for maintaining a door in a closed position on an over-the-road vehicle By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 05 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT A method of preventing a first door on an over-the-road vehicle from moving from a closed position into an open position. The first door has a first latch assembly that cooperates with a second latch assembly to releasably maintain the first door in its closed position. One of the first and second latch assemblies is maintained in place by at least one fastener extended into a first opening. With the at least one fastener loosened, the first locking assembly is placed on one of: a) one of the doors; or b) the vehicle frame after which a fastener is tightened into the first opening to thereby: i) maintain one of the first and second latch assemblies in place and secure the operatively placed first locking assembly. With the first door in the closed position, a locking device can be connected to the first locking assembly and another part on the vehicle to thereby maintain the first door in the closed position. Full Article
main Substrate processing apparatus for maintaining a more uniform temperature during substrate processing By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 12 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT A substrate processing apparatus that includes a process tank having a pair of opposed sidewalls for storing a chemical liquid, and processing a plurality of substrates by the chemical liquid; a substrate holding mechanism including a holding part for holding the plurality of substrates, and a back part connected to the holding part and interposed between the substrates held by the holding part and one sidewall of the pair of opposed sidewalls when the substrate holding mechanism is loaded into the process tank. A heating device is disposed on the process tank for heating the stored chemical liquid. The heating device includes at least a first heater disposed on the one sidewall, and a second heater disposed on the other sidewall of the pair of opposed sidewalls. Energy outputs of the first heater and the second heater are independently controlled. Full Article
main Food condition maintaining device By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 12 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT The inventive food holding apparatus comprises a holding area that accommodates food and warms the food with heat radiated by a bottom surface and with warm convection air. Part of the convection air forms an air curtain having a Bernoulli effect that removes excess moisture from the external surface of the food and maintains the food in a warm, crisp condition. The apparatus conditions food to attain a biologically safe noncooking temperature and to retain its freshly cooked texture and internal moisture for more than two hours. This lets restaurants serve the food longer to its customers, allowing efficient batch cooking and significantly decreasing food waste. Full Article
main SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IMPROVED HEALTH MANAGEMENT AND MAINTENANCE DECISION SUPPORT By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Thu, 29 Jun 2017 08:00:00 EDT A method of health management of a monitored system includes collecting component condition indicator data used to calculate a plurality of component health indicators. Component fault severity and potential failure modes are determined utilizing the component condition indicator data. The potential failure modes are ranked in order of likelihood to isolate the failure mode. A system of health management for monitored apparatus includes a fault severity module to derive a plurality of component health indicators from collected component condition indicator data, the plurality of component health indicators indicative of fault severity of a plurality of components. A fault isolation module separately derives a ranked listing of potential fault/failure modes utilizing the component condition indicator data. The system further includes a communication portion to which the plurality of component health indicators and the ranked listing of fault/failure modes are transmitted for review and/or action by cognizant personnel. Full Article
main Mainspring comprising supplementary energy accumulation curves By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 10 Feb 2015 08:00:00 EST A barrel including a box for receiving a pivot arbour and at least one spring, wherein the at least one spiral spring is mounted between an internal wall of the box and an external wall of the pivot arbour , and can be wound to supply mechanical energy. The barrel further includes a device for increasing torque of the at least one spring including supplementary energy accumulation curves made on the spring so that the barrel torque is customized according to a winding tension of the at least one spring. The barrel can be a timepiece barrel. Full Article
main Method for forming a smoking article capable of delivering flavorant to mainstream smoke when ignited during smoking By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 21 Apr 2015 08:00:00 EDT Delivery of additives in a smoking article is provided through thermally degradable, robust immobilized additive inserts. Additives can be immobilized in an elongated device or an insert, wherein the elongated device or the insert is sufficiently robust to allow the elongated device or the insert to be manually or machine inserted into a smoking article while maintaining the structure of the elongated device or the insert. By providing additives in the form of thermally degradable immobilized additive inserts, migration and/or loss of the additives in a smoking article prior to smoking can be reduced. Full Article
main Aircraft turbojet engine nacelle air intake maintenance trolley By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 12 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT This maintenance trolley (17) for the air intake (9) of the nacelle of an aircraft turbojet engine is notable in that it comprises a base (19) and a platform (23) cantilever-mounted on this base (19) and designed to enter said air intake (9) without contact therewith. Full Article
main Lubricating configuration for maintaining wristpin oil pressure in a two-stroke cycle, opposed-piston engine By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 26 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT A lubricating configuration in a two-stroke cycle, opposed-piston engine for a piston wristpin minimizes losses in oil pressure at the wristpin as the piston approaches bottom center and reduces the required oil supply pressure to the engine. The wristpin is constructed to absorb and store oil pressure energy when oil pressure at the wristpin is high, and to release that stored energy to pressurize the oil at the wristpin when connecting rod oil pressure is low. Full Article
main REMOTE MAINTENANCE SYSTEM By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Thu, 29 Jun 2017 08:00:00 EDT A remote maintenance system includes a maintenance management apparatus connected to a user apparatus and a communication relay apparatus connected to a remote-controlled apparatus. The maintenance management apparatus transmits, to the communication relay apparatus, message data whose destination is unique identification information of a mobile communication network assigned in advance to the communication relay apparatus. The communication relay apparatus notifies the maintenance management apparatus of an IP address that is dynamically assigned to itself upon reception of the message data. The maintenance management apparatus transmits, to the communication relay apparatus, information on remote operation received from the user apparatus whose destination is the notified IP address. The communication relay apparatus relays, to the remote-controlled apparatus, the information on the remote control received from the maintenance management apparatus. Full Article
main Technique for maintaining secure network connections By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 29 May 2012 08:00:00 EDT A technique for maintaining secure network connections is disclosed. In one particular exemplary embodiment, the technique may be realized as a method for maintaining secure network connections. The method may comprise detecting a change of address associated with a first network element. The method may also comprise updating at least one first security configuration at the first network element. The method may further comprise transmitting at least one secure message from the first network element to a second network element, wherein the at least one secure message comprises information associated with the change of address. And the method may comprise updating at least one second security configuration at the second network element based at least in part on the at least one secure message. Full Article
main ZERO BACKLASH PRE-DAMPER TO MAIN DAMPER ATTACHMENT SYSTEM By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Thu, 01 Jun 2017 08:00:00 EDT A driven damper assembly, comprises a first main-damper cover plate comprising an inclined portion. The inclined portion comprises a notch. A first plane passes through the first pre-damper cover plate. A second plane passes through the first main-damper cover plate and is parallel to the first plane. The notch comprises a first wall and a second wall. The first wall is not parallel to the second wall. The inclined portion extends away from the second plane at an angle greater than zero degrees away from the second plane and less than ninety degrees away from the second plane. The first pre-damper cover plate comprises a tab with a first portion extending outwardly at an angle greater than zero degrees away from the first plane and less than ninety degrees away from the first plane, wherein the tab engages the notch at the first wall and the second wall. Full Article
main Method of controlling drainage of wash water remaining in a washing machine By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 07 Apr 2015 08:00:00 EDT Disclosed herein is a method of controlling drainage of wash water remaining in a washing machine. The method includes draining wash water from a tub to an outside of the washing machine, supplying wash water into the washing machine after the draining wash water, and re-draining the wash water to the outside of the washing machine after the supplying wash water. Full Article
main POWER-DOMAIN OPTIMIZATION By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Thu, 22 Jun 2017 08:00:00 EDT One example discloses an apparatus for power management, including: a circuit having a first power-domain and a second power-domain; wherein the first and second power-domains include a set of operating parameter values; a circuit controller configured to incrementally sweep at least one of the operating parameter values of the first power-domain; a circuit profiler configured to derive a total power consumption profile of the circuit based on the circuit's response to the swept operating parameter value; wherein the circuit controller sets the operating parameter values for the first and second power-domains based on the total power consumption profile of the circuit. Full Article
main Maintenance Decision Support System and Method for Vehicular and Roadside Applications By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Thu, 29 Jun 2017 08:00:00 EDT A method and system are provided in which maintenance vehicles collect information from sensors and operators, forward the collected information to a server, and, is response, receive maps and operator instructions. Full Article
main THERMALLY-ASSISTED MAGNETIC RECORDING HEAD INCLUDING A MAIN POLE AND A PLASMON GENERATOR By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Thu, 16 Feb 2017 08:00:00 EST A main pole has a front end face including a first end face portion and a second end face portion. A plasmon generator has a near-field light generating surface. A surrounding layer has a first surrounding layer end face and a second surrounding layer end face located on opposite sides of the first end face portion in the track width direction. A gap film has a first gap film end face and a second gap film end face located on opposite sides of the near-field light generating surface in the track width direction. Each of the first and second gap film end faces includes a portion located between the first and second surrounding layer end faces, but does not include any portion interposed between the first surrounding layer end face and the first end face portion or between the second surrounding layer end face and the first end face portion. Full Article
main PREDICTION OF COMPONENT MAINTENANCE By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Thu, 13 Apr 2017 08:00:00 EDT One or more processors determine wear for a robotic device. The one or more processors divide a direction of travel of a robotic device into zones. Each zone has an associated counter that counts how many times the robotic device has entered a given zone. The one or more processors update a count for a zone in response to the robotic device entering that zone. The one or more processors determine a level of wear for a component associated with the robotic device. The level of wear is based, at least in part, on a total of counts for the zones. Full Article
main SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MAINTAINING A CONSISTENT TEMPERATURE GRADIENT ACROSS AN ELECTRONIC DISPLAY By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Thu, 29 Jun 2017 08:00:00 EDT An electronic display assembly having forced-air cooling. A thermally conductive plate or a thermally conductive backlight surface is located behind an electronic display of the electronic display assembly and within a housing thereof such that a gap is formed between the plate or backlight surface and an adjacent wall of the housing. External cooling air may be caused to flow in a top-to-bottom direction through the gap in order to remove heat from the electronic display that has been conductively transferred to the gap. A plurality of ribs may be placed within the gap and in thermal communication with the electronic display to enhance the conductive transfer of heat from the electronic display. Full Article
main SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ESTABLISHING AND MAINTAINING VIRTUAL COMPUTING CLOUDS By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Thu, 29 Jun 2017 08:00:00 EDT Networking systems and methods for establishing and maintaining virtual computing clouds are disclosed. A networking system can comprise a server and various instances of a software agent, each agent being installed on a computing device participating in a virtual computing cloud. The server can maintain account setting for a user, wherein the settings can indicate which files on indicated computing devices are included in the virtual computing cloud. The networking system can selectively synchronize data between the computing devices automatically and in a secure manner, and can transmit data in real time to simulate local storage when synchronization of certain files is inappropriate in light of file incompatibility. As a result, the networking system can provide the user with a seamless, automatic system and method for accessing a total computing environment. Full Article
main Reel lawn mower with main body, reel cutting unit, and connection structure for connecting reel cutting unit to main body such that reel cutting unit is rollable By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 12 May 2015 08:00:00 EDT A reel lawn mower which has a connection structure for connecting a reel cutting unit to a main body. The reel cutting unit has a spiral cutting reel which is rotated by a prime mover to cut grass together with a bedknife. In the connection structure, in order to connect the reel cutting unit to the main body so that the reel cutting unit rolls around a virtual horizontal line perpendicular to the shaft center of the cutting reel in the center of the axial direction of the cutting reel, the reel cutting unit includes a connecting arm with an arc portion shaped so as to follow a virtual arc centered on the virtual horizontal line. The connecting arm is slidably supported so as to prevent the arc portion from coming off the virtual arc. Full Article
main Memorial product including cremation remains By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 14 Jan 2014 08:00:00 EST A memorial product is presently disclosed that includes a glass structure having a first helix of cremation remains and a second helix of a second material, wherein the helix of the cremation remains and the helix of the second material are intertwined to form a double helix in the glass structure. In some embodiments, the second material is additional cremation remains or a colored material selected to correspond to the deceased represented by the cremation remains. Also disclosed is a method of manufacturing a memorial product including forming a first portion of molten glass into a substantially cylindrical shape having an exterior surface, applying cremation remains on a first portion of the exterior surface, applying a second material on a second portion of the exterior surface, and gathering a second portion of molten glass over the first portion of molten glass to encase the cremation remains and the second material. Full Article
main Method and apparatus for preserving human and animal remains By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 15 Apr 2014 08:00:00 EDT An apparatus for preserving human or animal remains comprising a burial chamber further comprising a hermetically sealed interior containing gas or water vapor, wherein the gas creates a gas pressure within the hermetically sealed interior, and a vacuum pump, wherein the vacuum pump is in functional communication with the hermetically sealed interior, wherein the vacuum pump operates to evacuate the gas or the water vapor from the hermetically sealed interior, and wherein the vacuum pump is intermittently activated to reduce the gas pressure within the hermetically sealed interior for a desiccating duration. Full Article
main Container system for storing remains By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 29 Apr 2014 08:00:00 EDT A container system for storing remains is provided, including a rigid storage vessel defining an inner chamber for receiving remains. The system includes at least one display frame member outside the rigid storage vessel for displaying information, such as a picture. A cap is provided proximate the storage vessel, wherein the cap defines at least one storage area for receiving an object. Full Article
main Aerial disposal and dispersal of cremated remains going out with a bang By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 03 Jun 2014 08:00:00 EDT An aerial disposal and dispersal of cremated remains device is presented. It is used to spread the remains of loved ones over a desired area. The device comprises a canister and a mortar, the canister being cylindrical in shape having cardboard walls, the canister further containing an igniter and burster charge in an inner cardboard tube, such inner tube being fitted with an upper cap, the mortar being cylindrical in shape with steel walls, the mortar further comprising a lifting charge which sits below an obturator disc, the obturator disc having a hole in the center, the canister fitting inside the mortar such that the canister's igniter sits atop the hole in the obturator disc. At least one device is fitted to a horizontal member to launch remains from any location. Full Article
main Cremains containment device By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 12 Aug 2014 08:00:00 EDT A containment device for holding the remains of a cremated individual. The containment device may include a receptacle with a rim section and a containment section. A cap may be sealed on the receptacle once the remains of the cremated individual are within the containment section. The outside of the receptacle may include an attachment component. Therefore, the receptacle may be displayed in one's home for a time and then may be permanently mounted in a memorial site. An anchor may attach to the attachment component to prevent theft. Full Article
main Disposal of human remains By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 13 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST A coffin for use in an alkaline hydrolysis processes described. The coffin comprises a dissolvable receptacle for a cadaver, the dissolvable receptacle being dissolvable in the alkaline hydrolysis process. A method of disposing of a cadaver is also described. The method includes the steps of placing the cadaver into a coffin comprising a dissolvable receptacle; placing the coffin in an alkaline hydrolysis unit; and adding water and a chemical into the alkaline hydrolysis unit with the cadaver, to break down the cadaver into a fluid component and a bone residue component and to dissolve the dissolvable receptacle of the coffin by alkaline hydrolysis. Full Article
main Flower pot urn and urn combination for cremation remains By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 03 Feb 2015 08:00:00 EST A flower pot and urn put together to make it possible to display a pet or loved one's cremated remains in a way like never before is generally provided. In a typical embodiment, a flower pot and urn are molded closely together so plants or flowers can drape around the urn. The pot and urn may be set on a mantel or table depending on the size or, for larger sizes, put in any room in a house. An embodiment of the present invention presents a combination flower pot and urn on a base that acts as a drip pan for the flower pot and a stand for the urn to keep it up out of the water. Full Article
main Cremated remains remembrance and burial system By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 03 Feb 2015 08:00:00 EST A cremated remains remembrance and burial system that includes an urn, an urn lid, an urn enclosure and a headstone. The urn includes an enclosure with an opening, a first sealing mechanism and second sealing mechanism. The urn lid is capable of engaging the first sealing mechanism to substantially seal the enclosure. The urn enclosure has a recess formed therein that is adapted to receive the urn. The urn enclosure is adapted to engage the second sealing mechanism to retain the urn in engagement with the urn enclosure. The headstone has an opening formed therein that is adapted to receive at least a portion of the urn. The headstone is adapted to engage the second sealing mechanism to retain the urn in engagement with the headstone. Full Article
main Contaminated human remains pouch By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 03 Mar 2015 08:00:00 EST A contaminated human remains pouch includes a sheet of material that is resistant to chemical and biological agents having a substantially rectangular shape having a first long side, a second long side, a first short side and second short side. Complimentary securing elements are fixed along an edge of the first long side and along an edge of the second long side. A folded portion in each corner of the material forms a first seam between adjacent portions of the first short side and a second seam between adjacent portions of the second short side. The complimentary securing elements on the edge of the first long side and the edge of the second long side define an opening when the folder portion in each corner is folded over, and the complimentary securing elements are configured to be mated together to substantially seal the contaminated human remains pouch from cross-contamination. Full Article
main Multifunctional tool for automotive air conditioning system testing and maintenance By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Tue, 28 Oct 2014 08:00:00 EDT An automotive tool for servicing air-conditioning (AC) systems equipped with quick-connect adaptors. May be used to service modern refrigerant R132A-compatible systems or retrofitted older systems. The tool is adapted for attaching, detaching, opening, and closing valved T-adaptors used to attach gas lines and pressure gauges such as required for adjusting pressure in AC systems at full operational pressure and temperature, and particularly finds use when the “hi-tap” and “lo-tap” fittings are in hard to reach places around the engine block or chassis. The tool includes swappable extension arms so that length and angular geometry may be adjusted as needed. The tool aids in avoiding injury on dangerously hot surfaces and moving fan blades or belts. Surprisingly, using two such tools, one for the high tap and one for the low tap, a mechanic may work each tool singlehandedly to complete any necessary pressure adjustments. Full Article
main FREQUENCY-DOMAIN ADC FLASH CALIBRATION By www.freepatentsonline.com Published On :: Thu, 22 Jun 2017 08:00:00 EDT A flash analog-to-digital converter (ADC) includes comparators that convert an analog input signal to a digital output signal. Offsets of these comparators introduce noise and can hurt the performance of the ADC. Thus, these comparators are calibrated using calibration codes. Conventional calibration methods determine these calibration codes by removing the ADC from an input signal. Otherwise, it is difficult to distinguish the noise from the signal in the calibration measurement. In contrast, an embodiment can determine the calibration codes while the ADC converts the input signal to a digital signal. Such an embodiment can be achieved by a frequency-domain technique. In an embodiment employing a frequency-domain power meter, an input signal can be removed from the power measurement. This removal enables accurate measurement of in-band noise without having the measurement be corrupted by input signal power. Full Article