Abstract: Process for controlling the access of a user to a service provided in a data network, to protect user data stored in a data base of the service from unauthorized access, the method comprising: (a) inputting, in a VoIP session, a voice sample of the user at a user data terminal which is at least temporarily connected to the data network, (b) processing, in a first processing step, the user's voice sample using a dedicated client implemented at the user data terminal, to obtain a pre-processed voice sample or a current voice profile of the user, (c) further processing, in a second processing step, the pre-processed voice sample or the current voice profile, including a comparison step of the current voice profile with an initial voice profile stored in a data base, and (d) outputting an access control signal for granting or rejecting access to the service, taking the result of the comparison step into account.

Abstract: Piezoelectric actuators of the type comprising a stack of layers of ferroelectric material and intervening electrodes which extend only part-way across the adjacent ferroelectric layers suffer differential remanent stress when electric fields are applied across the layers. To overcome this, a tensile stress is applied to the actuator along an axis substantially perpendicular to the layers of piezoelectric material in the actuator, which tensile stress is sufficient to mechanically align the dipoles, thus giving rise to a remanent strain which is uniform throughout the actuator. The actuator is advantageously heated while the tensile stress is applied, so as to increase the difference between the tensile strength of the material and the applied tensile stress. An alternative arrangement involves subjecting the actuator to a multidirectional stress and reducing the stress along the axis substantially perpendicular to the layers of piezoelectric material in the actuator.

Abstract: In some embodiments of outer rear-view mirrors, a mirror head (12) and a mirror base (11) are joined together in an articulated manner by a hinge (15, 16). The mirror head (12) can pivot out of a normal operational position in or against the travelling direction (10) and be fixed in the position swivelled against the travelling direction (10). For the outer rear-view mirror to be pivotable out of its normal operational position in or against the travelling direction (10), the intermediate joint (30) has two parallel joint axes arranged between the mirror base and the mirror head, and a U-shaped projection (37). The outer rear-view mirror is advantageously used in motor vehicles.

Abstract: A magnetic top system for energizing, launching, and controlling movement of a spinning top. In one embodiment, a magnetic top launcher may magnetically couple to a top and induce a spinning motion in the top. A top controlling device may magnetically control a traversing movement of the top on a play surface without directly contacting the top.

Abstract: A system and method for producing milk is disclosed in which animals present themselves for milking on a voluntary basis. The milk produced is handled and processed separately from milk and dairy products produced by conventional milking. Advantageous characteristics of the milk are retained and can be made available for the consumer. The production process may also be adapted to the voluntary milking facilities.

Abstract: A snow groomer having a frame extending along a longitudinal axis; ten supporting wheels connected to the frame by respective axle shafts to form a row of five supporting wheels on each longitudinal side of the frame, each supporting wheel on one longitudinal side of the frame facing a supporting wheel on the opposite longitudinal side of the frame, so that facing pairs of supporting wheels define a first, second, third, fourth, and fifth axle; two tracks, each looped about the supporting wheels aligned along a respective longitudinal side of the frame; an engine assembly of over 430 HP; and a mass distributed as follows: 16%+/?2% on the first axle; 20%+/?2% on the second axle; 20%+/?2% on the third axle; 22%+/?2% on the fourth axle; and 22%+/?2% on the fifth axle.

Abstract: A steel sheet pile in double-T form includes a web and two flanges, in which each flange has an inner side facing the web, an outer side facing away from the web, and two longitudinal edges, and also coupling means for a connection profile along at least one longitudinal edge of at least one flange. In a first embodiment, the coupling means are formed by a groove which extends in the outer side of at least one flange along at least one longitudinal edge.

Abstract: The invention relates, in particular, to a process for treating a liquid medium loaded with nitrates via a chemical route that mainly comprises a step of electrolysis of the liquid medium in the presence of a metal salt, the electrolysis being carried out at a pH below 5. The invention also relates to a device for treating a liquid medium loaded with nitrates and also to the applications of this process and device, in particular for reducing the level of nitrates in drainage waters.

Abstract: Disclosed is a polyurethane elastic yarn which is excellent in elongation, resilience, heat resistance, alkali resistance, chemical resistance, and capability of being dyed with a cationic dye and which is suitable for use in a stretch cloth, a wearing apparel or the like. The polyurethane elastic yarn comprises: an elastic yarn comprising a polyurethane mainly composed of a polymer diol and a diisocyanate; and a polymer of a compound having a sulfonate group contained in the elastic yarn.

Abstract: Disclosed is a process for the preparation of 1,2-cycloaliphatic diamines from 1,2-aromatic diamines. In one embodiment, the process provides a method for making 1,2-diaminocyclohexane by the reaction of 1,2-phenylenediamine contained in a polar, protic solvent with hydrogen in the presence of a supported rhodium catalyst, ammonia, and a trialkylamine, and having enhanced overall conversion and selectivity.

Abstract: Disclosed is a process for the preparation of 1,2-cycloaliphatic diamines from 1,2-aromatic diamines. In one embodiment, the process provides a method for making 1,2-diaminocyclohexane by the reaction of 1,2-phenylenediamine contained in a polar, protic solvent with hydrogen in the presence of a supported rhodium catalyst, ammonia, and an inorganic borohydride, and having enhanced overall conversion and selectivity.

Abstract: A flushing system for a transmission is disclosed. The system has a first pump and a first actuator connected to the first pump to form a first loop. The system also has a second pump and a second actuator connected to the second pump to form a second loop. The system further has a charge pump configured to replenish the first and second loops. The system also has a single charge relief valve situated to receive fluid from the first pump, the second pump, and the charge pump.

Abstract: A method and system for managing business transactions, such as mortgages or other financial transactions. A business transaction between an end user and a financial institution includes sub-transactions between the end user and a vendor. A software system performs functions to complete the business transaction. Automated ordering allows an end user to quickly and easily order a sub-transaction without input from the financial institution or the vendor, and also automatically orders sub-transactions upon satisfaction of a trigger event. Vendor management functionality allows a financial institution to manage the transactions of a vendor. Qualitative performance analysis functionality allows an end user to monitor and evaluate a vendor's price, turn-around time, quality score, and overall score. Vendor distribution functionality distributes sub-transactions among vendors.

Abstract: The invention relates to the preparation of alkylated phenols. More specifically, the invention relates to an improved process for the manufacture of 2-secondary-alkyl-4,5-di-normal-alkylphenols.

Abstract: A drivetrain for use in a mobile vehicle is disclosed. The drivetrain may have a housing, a first hydraulic pump connected to the housing, and a second hydraulic pump connected to the housing. The second hydraulic pump may be in axial alignment with the first hydraulic pump. The drivetrain may also have a first motor fluidly connected to the first hydraulic pump, and a second motor fluidly connected to the second hydraulic pump. The first and second motors may have an axial direction substantially perpendicular to the axial alignment of the first and second hydraulic pumps.

Abstract: The present invention concerns polyester fabric that is employed in airbags. In particular, the polyester fabric has improved resistance to edge combing—the relative tendency of a fabric to pull apart under seam stress or similar action such as inflation of inflatable restraints. Further, the polyester fabric of the invention must have an edge comb resistance of greater than about 350 Newtons at room temperature (20° C.) and greater than 250 Newtons at 90° C. The polyester fabric of the invention has an acrylic polymer or copolymer finish, or a mixture of acrylic and non-acrylic polymers. The finish is applied from about 1 to about 4 wt. % nominal solids add-on of said fabric.

Abstract: A new and distinct variety of nectarine tree, denominated ‘Nectatop’, has fruits of very long shelf life withour alteration before and after harvesting, a semi-sweet yellow flesh of high-eating quality and an attractive red skin. Fruits can be consumed crunchy or melting.

Abstract: A new and distinct variety of peach tree, denominated ‘Sweetlove’, has fruits of very long shelf life without alteration before and after harvesting, a semi-sweet white flesh of high eating quality and an attractive red skin. Fruits can be consumed crunchy or melting.