Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to the use of event processing (e.g., for complex events) in a cloud infrastructure using Statistical Process Control (SPC) techniques to detect changes in a holistic system. Specifically, events (e.g., complex events that occur over multiple layers in the architecture) may be detected and/or correlated by an event processor. Thereafter, an SPC engine will determine if the events impact a set of SLAs based on a set of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), which are measurements indicating actual performance of the cloud computing environment versus stated goals. The SPC engine will then determine if a set of actions is needed to address the events to avoid the SLAs terms from not being met. If so, a provisioning engine can carry out any needed actions.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to the use of event processing (e.g., for complex events) in a cloud infrastructure using Statistical Process Control (SPC) techniques to detect changes in a holistic system. Specifically, events (e.g., complex events that occur over multiple layers in the architecture) may be detected and/or correlated by an event processor. Thereafter, an SPC engine will determine if the events impact a set of SLAs based on a set of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), which are measurements indicating actual performance of the cloud computing environment versus stated goals. The SPC engine will then determine if a set of actions is needed to address the events to avoid the SLAs terms from not being met. If so, a provisioning engine can carry out any needed actions.

Abstract: Under embodiments of the present invention, a set (at least one) of Clouds, a set of software providers, and a set of Cloud consumers (hereinafter “consumers”) are registered with a Cloud software license broker (hereinafter “broker”). Consumer information will be matched with the set of software providers to determine applicable licenses as well as pricing and usage rates. Use of software within the set of Clouds by the set of Cloud consumers will be tracked, aggregated, and reported. Based on the use, a licensing arrangement (including a price) will be determined. Applicable amounts will then be billed, and payments will be collected and disbursed (e.g., to the set of software providers) in accordance with the licensing arrangements. Under the present invention, prices/amounts can be determined based on a per use/on-demand of software and/or based on use of the software over an interval of time (e.g., interval-based pricing).

Abstract: A method, system, and computer-usable medium for dropping slow connections during a multi-connection download. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a download manager establishes a predetermined number of connections between a client and a predetermined number of servers. The download manager sets a minimum threshold data transfer rate for the client for a particular connection and drops a first connection that is transferring data at a rate below the minimum threshold if an overall transfer rate of a download after dropping the first connection is greater than the predetermined number of connections times the minimum threshold data transfer rate.

Abstract: A folded-horn loudspeaker system adapted for high-power audio applications. The system preferably comprises a rigid enclosure of generally cubicle dimensions and an integral, exponentially curved horn projecting outwardly from the enclosure toward the listening area. A transducer housed within a sealed chamber interiorly of the enclosure communicates through an aperture into a waveguide system of substantially rectangular dimensions. A baffle plate system deflects sound energy from the waveguide into the throat of the horn. The baffle plate system is positioned to avoid the reflection of sound waves back into the waveguide to thereby minimize distortion.