Apparatus, systems and methods for facilitating social networking via a media device
US Patent 9,426,106
August 23, 2016
Techniques for facilitating social networking via a media device are described. Some embodiments provide a social networking facilitator (“SNF”) as part of a media device, such as a set-top box that is configured to receive media content events from a broadcast system, such as a satellite broadcast system. As the media device presents a media content event, a user can share, via the SNF, information about the presented media content event with members of his social network. In particular, the SNF prepares a message that includes information about or from the presented media content event, such as a title, a channel, a summary, rating, video clip, or the like. This message can then be edited by the user, such as by adding a comment or rating, before being transmitted by the SNF a social networking system, to be forwarded as a notification to members of the user’s social network.
Mobile heater and fan system and methods of commissioning a data center
US Patent 9,285,138
March 15, 2016
A mobile system for simulating a thermal load and airflow expected in the operation of a data center includes a thermal energy source, an impeller and impeller drive unit, an outlet port, a frame and a ground engaging member. The thermal energy source provides thermal energy to air adjacent to the thermal energy source. The impeller controls a flow rate of air adjacent to the adjacent to the thermal energy source. The outlet port outputs the flowing air. The impeller drive unit drives the impeller at a frequency based on a determined airflow at the outlet port. The frame supports the thermal energy source, the impeller, the output port and the drive unit. The ground engaging member supports the frame and enables the mobility of the system.
Vehicle speed limiter via gauge interface
US Patent 9,286,264
March 15, 2016
An electronic control unit (“ECU”) limiter is disclosed. The electronic control unit may be configured to receive a user-specified vehicle limit, such as a speed limit, from an input device, such as a gauge interface of the vehicle or a diagnostic tool. The electronic control unit is further configured to enforce the received vehicle limit, without a need to reprogram (e.g., erase and rewrite) vehicle engine control data stored by the electronic control unit, such as lookup tables or maps that are used to determine the operational parameters (e.g., ignition timing, throttle) based on sensor inputs (e.g., engine revolutions per minute, engine temperature).
Retention system and method for a wing
US Patent 9,285,068
March 15, 2016
A retention system includes a base supporting a wing spar and a post extending through the base from a first side of the base to a second side of the base. The post inserts through an aperture in the spar. A stop is selectively securable to the post over the second side of the base. A locking member engages the post on the first side of the base. The locking member is configured to selectively move the post from an unlocked position to a locked position in which the post is withdrawn toward the first side relative to the unlocked position. A biasing member encircles the post and is positioned between the stop and the second side. When the locking member is in a closed position the biasing member expands to engage the aperture and resist movement of the wing spar. A plurality of cradles may support the wing.
Vehicle speed limiter via gauge interface
US Patent 9,286,264
March 15, 2016
An electronic control unit (“ECU”) limiter is disclosed. The electronic control unit may be configured to receive a user-specified vehicle limit, such as a speed limit, from an input device, such as a gauge interface of the vehicle or a diagnostic tool. The electronic control unit is further configured to enforce the received vehicle limit, without a need to reprogram (e.g., erase and rewrite) vehicle engine control data stored by the electronic control unit, such as lookup tables or maps that are used to determine the operational parameters (e.g., ignition timing, throttle) based on sensor inputs (e.g., engine revolutions per minute, engine temperature).
Tissue fixation delivery apparatus
US Patent 9,277,914
March 8, 2016
A device for deploying a tissue fixation apparatus of the type including first and second tissue anchors coupled together by an adjustable suture assembly. The device comprises a handle mechanism and a needle cartridge assembly releasably coupled to the handle mechanism. The needle cartridge assembly includes a needle cannula with a side opening through which a tissue anchor can be loaded into an internal chamber of the needle cannula. A push rod is disposed in the needle cannula and is operable between an extended position in which the push rod prevents the tissue anchor from entering the chamber through the side opening, and a retracted configuration in which the tissue anchor can be pushed into the chamber under the action of a resilient band positioned over the side opening.
Handle assembly for a container
US Patent 9,278,782
March 8, 2016
A handle assembly for a container includes a baseplate and a handle portion. A post extends from an arm of the handle portion and is configured to allow the baseplate to be snapped onto the post. In turn, the baseplate may be fastened or otherwise attached to the container. When lifting the container, the handle is rotated from a stored position and mechanically halted in a lifting position with interlocking complementary stops coupled to the handle portion and baseplate, respectively. In one embodiment, the stops include complementarily angled surfaces that are placed in interlocking bearing contact when the handle portion is in the lifting position. A biasing member coupled to the handle portion and engaged with the baseplate biases the handle portion toward the stored position.
Optical node configuration apparatus
US Patent 9,231,703
January 12, 2016
A segmented optical node exploits a configuration module having arrayed all elements to go from a 1.times.4 to a 4.times.4 configuration, save optional redundant switches. A jumper board in the 1.times., 2.times. path configures the node for 1.times.4 in one orientation and for 2.times.4 when flipped around 180 degrees. The 4.times.4 configuration is achieved by rotating the configuration module 90 degrees. In this orientation power to the module is also off, since the 4.times. configuration is passive.
Touchscreen sanitizing system
US Patent 9,233,179
January 12, 2016
A sanitizing system for use with monitors, particularly including touchscreen monitors, includes an ultraviolet light source positioned about a periphery of the monitor and configured to transmit light toward the monitor. A sensor detects the presence of an object such as a human finger in the close vicinity or in contact with the monitor in order to stop the operation of the lights.
Brain stimulation models, systems, devices, and methods
US Patent 9,235,685
January 12, 2016
Brain stimulation models, systems, devices, and methods, such as for deep brain stimulation (DBS) or other electrical stimulation. In an example, a target volume of activation (VOA) can be received, a test VOA can be simulated, and at least one of a target electrode location or parameter can be provide using a relationship between the target VOA and the test VOA.
