Document Document Title
US07658310B1 Method and apparatus for attaching ribs on cargo trailers
An improved fabrication apparatus is provided for the placing screws accurately and reliably into body panels of cargo trailers. The apparatus uses a template that is positioned over the aluminum body panels of a cargo trailer to guide the placement of automatic screwdriver tools, so that the body panels are quickly and accurately mounted to vertical ribs that are part of the framework of the trailer. The invention includes a fabrication fixture that holds the template at predetermined positions to align the template with the ribs of the trailer's framework.
US07658288B2 Bisulfite conversion reagent
Disclosed, among other things, are packaged bisulfite solutions comprising bisulfite reagent in an oxygen-impermeable container and methods.
US07658271B2 Conveyor
In a movable conveyor belt storage installation including a belt storage means (4), conveyor belt support structures (29) following the belt storage means (4), and a movable takeover car (7) including a deflection means (43) for the conveyor belt and a takeup chute (8) for taking over excavated material, the belt storage means (4) is comprised of at least two segments (13, 20, 22, 26) which are connected with one another so as to be pivotable about an axis extending transversely to the belt running direction and passing through the plane of the floor (31), wherein at least a portion of the support structures (29) are capable of being carried along in or on the takeover car (7).
US07658252B2 Riding vehicles, including tricycles, with stowable push handles and hide away rear wheel storage compartment
Wheeled riding vehicles, including tricycles, with extremely thin stowed profiles are provided, which in one embodiment, include movable, collapsible tires/wheel axle assemblies, as well as folding frame parts and a unique handle that is removable and stowable within the vehicle frame when not used. The riding vehicle hangs totally flat on the wall, or fits in car trunks easily. One version is pedal powered, and a second embodiment provides for an integrated propulsion linkage providing for battery or motor power to the rear most wheels when they are moved into their operative position. The rear tire wheel assemblies also may be stowed and folded compactly inside a rear storage compartment with a lid.
US07658239B2 Power tool, drive assembly, and method of operating the same
A power tool including a drive assembly including a first clutch assembly having an engaged configuration, in which the first clutch assembly transfers a drive force from a motor shaft to a spindle, and a disengaged configuration, in which the first clutch assembly prevents the transfer of the drive force. The first clutch assembly can be movable toward the disengaged configuration when a torque exerted on the spindle exceeds a torque limit. The drive assembly can also include a second clutch assembly having an engaged configuration, in which the second clutch assembly transmits the drive force from the motor shaft to the spindle, and a disengaged configuration, in which the second clutch assembly prevents the transmission of the drive force. The second clutch assembly can be movable toward the engaged configuration when the tool element engages a workpiece.
US07658237B2 Power tool having mode controller
The invention discloses a power tool having a motor adapted to drive a tool, comprising at least one switching element, coupled with a controller, for actuation of the motor, the controller being configured so that the motor can be switched on for driving the tool only when the at least one switching element is activated several times in a predetermined way, or when at least two switching elements are activated simultaneously or in a predetermined way in succession, there being provided at least three operating modes, namely an inoperative mode, in which the motor is out of operation, a working mode in which the motor is driven for driving the tool, and an intermediate mode, in which the user is signaled that further activation of a switching element is needed for transferring the motor to its working mode.
US07658229B2 Gas lift chamber purge and vent valve and pump systems
The present invention is directed to producing fluid from an oil or gas well by means of a combination intermittently filled down hole chamber accumulation device and a connected upper continuous gas lift flow system, separated by an inline one-way reverse flow check valve. A two-way purge and vent valve controls the distribution of high pressure gas. The two-way valve first injects high pressure gas into the chamber accumulation device to displace the fluid from the chamber into the continuous flow conduit. The two-way valve then vents the residual high pressure gas from the chamber into a separate low pressure conduit to the surface. The valve also provides high pressure gas to the continuous flow conduit to assist in the production of the fluid.
US07658228B2 High pressure system
An arrangement and method for integrating a high pressure riser sleeve from the upper end of a high pressure drilling and workover riser terminated by an upper BOP close to sea level in one end and by a sub-sea blowout preventer BOP or a low riser package LRP close to the seabed in the lower end. The high pressure riser sleeve being installed, connected and integrated to the high pressure drilling and workover riser and extending up to and above the drill floor, inside a low pressure drilling riser slip joint which is connected to the drilling and workover riser. This relates to offshore drilling and well activities preformed from a floating drilling or workover rig or vessel. Operations can be switched from drilling with jointed drillpipe in a conventional manner, into performing underbalanced wireline and/or coiled tubing activities with full well pressure, much more effectively than with prior art.
US07658205B1 Systems for a fluid circuit coupler
The fluid coupler comprises a male coupler, a female coupler, and a seal between the male coupler and the female coupler when they are coupled, preventing fluid leakage. The female coupler receives the male coupler when in a coupled position. The male coupler includes a two pieced housing, a unitary valve and a biasing member. The two pieces of the housing may be joined. A cavity runs the length of the housing. The female coupler includes a housing, an annulus, a unitary valve and a biasing member. The annulus and the housing may be joined. A cavity runs the length of the housing. The unitary valves and biasing members fit within the cavities and are capable of longitudinal positioning within a configurable range. When male coupler and female coupler are coupled, the unitary valves are open permitting fluid flow. Otherwise, if uncoupled, the unitary valves are closed preventing fluid leakage.
US07658204B2 Semiconductor manufacturing apparatus enabling inspection of mass flow controller maintaining connection thereto
An opening/closing of a plurality of valves are controlled so that a plurality of gases flow into a chamber in an operation of a semiconductor manufacturing apparatus, and the opening/closing of the plurality of valves are controlled so that a gas A flows into mass flowmeters in an inspection of a mass flow controller MFC 2′. Therefore, the inspection can be achieved while maintaining the connection of mass flow controller MFC 2′ to the semiconductor manufacturing apparatus.
US07658198B2 Washing system for dissolution vessels and the like
In one embodiment, a washing system including a nozzle assembly having a nozzle and having formed therein a rinse passageway and a waste passageway. Each passageway has first and second ends. The first end of the waste passageway is adapted to be coupled to a waste pump adapted to remove waste fluid via a waste aperture defining the second end of the waste passageway. The first end of the rinse passageway is adapted to be coupled to a rinse pump adapted to provide rinse fluid via a rinse aperture defining the second end of the rinse passageway. The nozzle is coupled to the rinse aperture and is adapted to rotate and direct flow of the rinse fluid outwardly while rotating.
US07658196B2 System and method for determining implanted device orientation
A system is operable to detect the orientation of an implant component. The system comprises an implantable component, an external component, and a logic component. The implantable component comprises a first coil operable to transmit a first signal having a phase. The external component comprises a second coil operable to transmit a second signal having a phase. The logic component is operable to compare the phase of the first signal with the phase of the second signal. The logic component is further configured to determine an orientation of the first coil relative to the second coil based on a comparison of the phase of the first signal with the phase of the second signal. The system may be used to determine the orientation of an injection port in an implanted gastric band system. The system may alternatively be used in a variety of other types of systems.
US07658193B2 Interocclusal appliance and method
An interocclusal appliance is formed from a single polymer material composition as one unitary piece or from multiple polymer material compositions as a two-piece preform. The two-piece preform includes a base material and an impression material that has a softening point lower than the base material. Teeth are received into the heat-softened impression material, so as to contour the impression material. A portion of the impression material also may contour to a portion of the user's palate. In certain embodiments, substantially no polymeric material contacts the front surfaces of the front teeth, leading to greater comfort and better air flow between front teeth. In still another embodiment, the appliance fits over front teeth only and no polymeric material contacts the maxillary molars.
US07658188B2 Volume-adjustable manual ventilation device
Disclosed is a manually operable volume-adjustable ventilation device. The device includes a reservoir with an inlet mechanism, an outlet mechanism, and a volume adjuster configured to move a volume adjustment limit of the reservoir and change an expressed maximum volume of the reservoir. The reservoir has a body having a plurality of movable walls defining an enclosed volume. The reservoir has an uncompressed state and a compressed state. The walls of the reservoir are movable with respect to each other, such that moving the walls expresses the volume adjustment limit of the reservoir. The walls can be operably connected by movable structures configured such that two adjacent walls are configured to rotate around substantially orthogonal axes with respect to each other when the reservoir moves from an uncompressed to a compressed state. In some embodiments, the movable structures can be hinges, such as snap-fit assembly hinges. Methods of ventilating a patient that involve the device are also disclosed.
US07658186B2 Multi-purposes mechanism for shooting apparatus
A multi-purposes mechanism for shooting apparatus includes a gun body, a barrel, a shooting member, and a rear cap. The gun body comprises a hollow tube perpendicularly interconnecting with a first loading hole at a center portion of the hollow tube. A first stage is formed on an inner wall of the tube in front of the first loading hole. A second stage is formed on the inner wall of the tube in back of the first loading hole. The barrel is disposed in the tube before the first loading hole, and has a first engaging ring corresponding to the first stage of the tube. The shooting member is disposed in the tube after the first loading hole, and has a second engaging ring on an outer wall thereof corresponding to the second stage of the tube. The rear cap is connected to a rear end of the tube.
US07658175B2 Engine start device
An engine start device having a first start mode in which the engine is started on a spot by executing a start operation of the engine, and a second start mode in which a necessary accumulated force is previously accumulated in to start in one time in an optional place at an optional timing. In the first start mode, an accumulated force, accumulated by a rotation of a rotation drive section allows the engine to be started on the spot. If switched to the second start mode, the rotation of the rotation drive section is exclusively accumulated and released in the optional place at a desired time so as to start the engine in accordance with a one-touch operation.
US07658172B2 Valve unit of internal combustion engine
A valve unit of an internal combustion engine is accommodated in a space between a cylinder head and a rocker cover. The valve unit comprises a camshaft, a variable valve operating mechanism, a sensor, and a retaining member. The camshaft is provided with a cam for each cylinder. The variable valve operating mechanism receives a displacement of the cam, outputs a valve drive output, and continuously variable-controls the valve drive output in accordance with a rotational displacement of a control shaft provided substantially in parallel with the camshaft. The sensor detects the rotational displacement of the control shaft. The retaining member retains the camshaft, the variable valve operating mechanism, and the sensor. The retaining member expose the sensor to the out side of the rocker cover thereby to fix the camshaft, the variable valve operating mechanism, and the sensor to the cylinder head.
US07658168B2 Oscillating piston machine
An oscillating piston machine comprises a housing in which a first and at least a second piston are arranged, which pistons can rotate together in the housing about a rotational axis which is fixed to the housing and which pistons, as they rotate about the rotational axis, carry out reciprocating oscillating movements in opposite directions to one another about an oscillation axis which extends perpendicularly to the rotational axis and through the center of the housing, wherein the first piston has a first end face and the at least second piston has a second end face which faces the first end face, wherein the end faces bound a working chamber. The pistons are arranged in such a way that the rotational axis extends through the working chamber.
US07658161B2 System for depth control of a marine deflector
A system for adjusting a deflector in a seismic survey comprises a generally upright deflector body and at least one bridle connected to a seismic cable. The bridle includes an upper segment secured to an upper connection point on the deflector body, and a lower segment coupled to a lower connection point on the deflector body. The upper bridle segment, lower bridle segment and deflector body define a geometry between themselves. This geometry is adjustable by at least one actuator so as to control the tilt angle of the deflector body.
US07658157B2 Boxed tree transporter
A transporter 16 is provided for moving a live tree which has a root ball B which is boxed or otherwise contained. A powered slide mechanism 22 is movable from an inclined position to engage the boxed tree to a horizontal transport position on the trailer or truck bed. A powered loading mechanism 26 attached to the slide mechanism engages the boxed tree to move up the inclined slide mechanism. A powered tilting mechanism 40 tilts the boxed tree to an inclined transport position.
US07658154B2 Shelving unit
A shelf is connected to risers that are screwthreaded together to achieve a clamping effect between the shelves and the risers. Each shelf may comprise a plastic shelf portion and at least one reinforcement portion secured to the plastic shelf portion to reinforce the plastic shelf portion along its length. In one embodiment a plurality of metal bars are used as the reinforcement portion. The reinforcement portions may be inserted into channels formed in the plastic shelve portions and may be attached to the shelve portions using a separate attachment mechanism.
US07658152B2 Tie plate inserting machine
A track mounted machine is capable of inserting a previously positioned tie plate between a rail and underlying cross tie of a railway. The machine preferably is also capable of lifting the rail from the tie prior to tie plate insertion and/or, is capable of operating on both rails of a railway simultaneously. The preferred embodiment includes two tie plate inserter assemblies mounted on a common workhead. Each tie plate inserter assembly includes a pusher that can be moved, under control of an operator stationed on the machine, vertically and longitudinally on the rails so as to be aligned with a field end of the tie plate. The pusher can then be actuated to push the tie plate laterally under the rail.
US07658148B2 Reactive shaped charges comprising thermal sprayed reactive components
Shaped charge liners are made of reactive materials formed by thermal spray techniques. The thermally sprayed reactive shaped charge materials have low porosity and high structural integrity. Upon detonation, the reactive materials of the shaped charge liner undergo an exothermic reaction that raises the temperature and the effectiveness of the liner.
US07658144B2 Avocado de-skinning apparatus
An avocado de-skinning apparatus having two generally vertically disposed rotating drums. The rotating drums rotate inward to pinch the skin of an avocado and force the off and through a gap defined between the rotating drums. A driver in the gap and in the upper section of the rotating drums aids in forcing the skin from the avocado and into the gap and through the rear side of the rotating drums. A skin scraper removes any skin adhering to the drums and a pulp scraper retrieves any pulp adhering to the drums for further processing.
US07658143B2 Oscillating hot dog grill
A hot dog grill for cooking hot dogs or similar food products is disclosed. The grill has an inclined heating surface defined on a sloping top plate. A grill assembly having a top cross member is placed over and in proximity to the heating surface. The grill assembly is moveable between two positions relative to the inclined heating surface. The grill assembly has a pair of sides which support rails. The rails are interlocked with sockets on the sides of the sloping top plate to guide the movement of the grill assembly. Lateral rods are installed between the sides of the grill assembly. Hot dogs and similar foods are cooked on the heating surface and rest on the lateral rods. A motor has a rotating shaft extending from the inclined heating surface. The rotating shaft is mechanically coupled to the top cross member of the grill assembly via a pivot block and pin. The motor propels the grill between the two positions relative to the inclined heating surface causing the lateral rods to push the hot dogs and rotate them.
US07658140B2 Portable rifle or shotgun aiming seat apparatus and kit
A rifle or shotgun aiming seat apparatus is portable, erectable on the ground and/or as part of a ladder or tree stand. The apparatus incorporates therewith a seat and a rifle-positioning cradle that enables the user to remain in position and simultaneously rotate and selectively and rapidly adjust the height, distance and angular orientation of the rifle barrel, depending on the shooting environment presented. Additionally, the frame structure of the apparatus is adapted to be adjusted and leveled as to sloping ground and enables a hunting blind be erected to hide the hunter while in position.
US07658139B2 Electricity generating device for use in an armour arrangement, and an armour arrangement of this kind
An electricity generating device for use in an armor arrangement, and to an armor arrangement. The armor arrangement includes two inert reactive armor modules arranged one behind the other, which each include a plate made of inert material, interposed between steel plates. Sheet-shaped members are mounted or baked onto the inert material. The sheet-shaped members are provided with a number of mutually separate regions in which, or next to which, there are disposed elements which convert mechanical vibrations or shock waves in the inert material into electrical voltage. The elements can include crystals or piezoelectric layers. The ammunition part or ammunition effect which penetrates the inert reactive armor modules and which generates the mechanical vibrations or shock waves provokes in one or more elements the generation of a voltage which can be used to initiate counteragents against the penetration.
US07658135B2 Meat slicing machine
Meat slicing machine, comprising a belt blade (5) conceived to follow a straight cutting line (50) for the meat to be sliced, characterised in that it comprises a support surface (9) parallel to the cutting line (50) and set at a distance from the line at right angles to the support surface (9) itself; a container (11) for the meat to be sliced, having an exit opening (12) facing the said support surface (9) on the side of the cutting line (50); Pushing devices (13) associated with said container (11), conceived to push the meat down towards said exit opening (12); and a moving mechanism (19, 22) conceived to translate the container (11) in a parallel manner to the support surface (9) with a backward and forward motion from one side of the cutting line (50) to the other.
US07658131B1 Subsea tensioner system
A subsea tensioner system that includes a one or more spring activated piston return subsea tensioners. The subsea tensioner system can use a spring activated subsea tensioner because the subsea tensioner system uses non-toxic fluid to drive a piston disposed within the subsea tensioner, and when the piston reaches a second position a fluid release valve is opened thus allowing the fluid used to drive the piston to be emptied into the local underwater environment. The subsea tensioner system eliminates the need for topside trips to return the piston to an initial position to take another stroke.
US07658130B1 Golf club bottle opener combination
A golf club suitable for use in driving or putting a golf ball comprising a club head attached to a shaft includes a bottle cap removal structure in a rear surface of the club head.
US07658123B2 Shift range switching apparatus and method for assembling the same
A shift range switching apparatus includes an automatic transmission that includes a shift range switching device having a control rod for switching an actual shift range corresponding to rotation angle of the control rod. The shift range switching apparatus further includes an electric actuator that includes an output shaft connecting with the control rod. The electric actuator switches the actual shift range by rotating the control rod via the output shaft. The shift range switching apparatus further includes an assembly regulating device that allows the electric actuator to be detachable from and attachable to the automatic transmission when the actual shift range of the shift range switching device is set at a specific shift range.
US07658122B2 Method and apparatus for measuring manual actuation of spray devices
An assembly that provides operational information about operation of a spray device, such as a nasal spray pump or metered dose inhaler. A linkage adapted to extend between a mounting assembly, connected to a stationary part of the spray device, and an adapter assembly, connected to a movable part of the spray device, is in operational relationship with a transducer to enable the transducer to indicate a mechanical relationship between the movable and stationary parts of the spray device corresponding to the operation of the spray device. A data collection and processing system may be connected to the transducer for determining information that may be used to program an automated actuation system.
US07658115B2 Measuring transducer of vibration-type
A measuring transducer includes: a measuring tube vibrating at least at times and serving for conveying medium to be measured; a counteroscillator, which is affixed to the measuring tube on an inlet-side, to form a first coupling zone, and to the measuring tube on an outlet-side, to form a second coupling zone; an exciter mechanism for driving at least the measuring tube; as well as a sensor arrangement for registering oscillations at least of the measuring tube. During operation, the measuring tube executes, at least at times and/or at least in part, bending oscillations about an imaginary bending oscillation axis, which imaginarily connects the two coupling zones with one another. Additionally, at least a first spring element and a second spring element are included, with each of the at least two spring elements being affixed to the measuring tube and the counteroscillator spaced both from each of the two coupling zones as well as also from the exciter mechanism.
US07658102B2 Thermal flow sensor having an amplifier section for adjusting the temperature of the heating element
A thermal flow sensor can adjust the temperature of a heating element in a highly precise and reliable manner with the use of simple circuits, devices and process steps. The sensor includes an amplifier section (7) that amplifies a voltage across opposite ends of at least one of resistors (3, 4, 5) that constitute a bridge circuit, a current control section (9) that is controlled based on an output voltage of the amplifier section (7), and an output terminal (14) that is connected to one end of a heating element (1) that is controlled to be energized by the current control section (9). The amplifier section (7) includes an amplification factor control section for controlling an amplification factor by an electric signal from a computer, and uses an output voltage which has been amplified and impressed to an input voltage to an operational amplifier (8).
US07658100B2 Device and method for measuring air movement
This device has a detection means to measure the relative amount of air movement in its vicinity. The detection means is coupled to a processing means for creating a variable trigger signal that is proportional to detected air movement. The detection means consists of a differential pressure transducer mounted inside a specially-shaped enclosure. The pressure transducer is arranged to measure the air pressure difference between two holes in the enclosure. The shape of the enclosure causes air to flow at different velocities near the holes, creating a differential air pressure. The processing means consists of a microprocessor that periodically samples the signal from the differential pressure transducer. A programmed algorithm calculates a variable trigger signal value based on a plurality of sampled signals. The processing means can also incorporate an algorithm for digitally generating audio signals that have attributes based on the value of the trigger signal.
US07658098B2 Method for controlling vehicle emissions
A method and system is provided for determining non-sensed vehicle operating parameters of a vehicle system. The method and system further provide for determining an engine air mass flow rate using the non-sensed vehicle operating parameters. A plurality of vehicle operating set-points may be determined using the non-sensed vehicle system operating parameters and the non-sensed engine air mass flow rate. A controller may use the vehicle operating set-points in order to control emissions of the vehicle system.
US07658097B2 Method and apparatus of high speed property mapping
A probe instrument having a probe that interacts with a sample surface to perform a mechanical property measurement at high speed includes a scanner producing relative motion between the sample and the probe. In addition, a probe actuator produces relative motion between the sample and the probe, in a generally vertical direction, and a controller that generates a scanner drive signal and an actuator drive signal. The probe actuator is responsive to the actuator drive signal and has an operable bandwidth of at least about 50-80 kHz to perform the fast force curve measurements. The probe actuator is preferably located at least partially on the cantilever. Moreover, feedback during normal operation may be interrupted to perform a force curve measurement with the integrated actuator.
US07658093B2 Liquid discriminating apparatus and liquid discriminating method
A concentration sensor for detecting a concentration of a liquid reducing agent through heat transfer characteristics between separate two points is provided in a storage tank for storing a liquid supplied to an NOx reduction catalyst. When the concentration read from the concentration sensor is 0% or less, the liquid is discriminated to be water, that is, it is utilized that when water is converted to the concentration of a liquid reducing agent, it is 0%, and it is also 0% even when the concentration is reduced by convection. When the concentration is greater than a predetermined value, it is discriminated that no liquid is present, since it is considered that the output of the sensor is abnormal because of the absence of a liquid in the tank. On the other hand, when the concentration is greater than 0% and less than a predetermined value, the liquid is discriminated to be the liquid reducing agent, provided that the concentration value may include an error.
US07658091B2 Method for the audible output of a piece of information in an analysis system
A system for analysing a fluid sample arranged on a test element comprises a data processing unit configured to process results of an analysis of the fluid sample arranged on the test element, an audible signal generator, and a control unit. The control unit may control the audible signal generator to generate an audible test signal that is configured to test the operability of the signal generator to audibly encode information. The audible test signal may include audible features that allow for identification of any deviation of the generated audible test signal from a correctly generated audible test signal, and/or from which malfunction of the signal generator can be detected.
US07658090B2 Grid bending machine
A grid bending machine is provided for bending a workpiece. The machine includes first and second guides having inner surfaces defining a cavity therebetween. A stationary anvil is mounted to the first and second guides. A first die is releaseably connected to the stationary anvil. A body is disposed in the cavity and is movable between a first position release position and a second bending position. A second die is releaseably connected to the body and is aligned with the first die. The second die is axially spaced from the first die with the body in the release position and is adjacent the first die with the body in the bending position.
US07658086B2 Drawing method for bare optical fiber with suppressed hydrogen diffusion
A drawing method for a bare optical fiber, comprises the steps of: melting an optical fiber preform using a heating device and drawing the bare optical fiber; and naturally cooling down the bare optical fiber or forcibly cooling down the bare optical fiber by a cooling device after the heating and melting step, wherein a temperature history during the drawing the optical fiber preform to obtain the bare optical fiber in the heating device satisfies a relational expression: T≦−0.01X+12 where a time period when the heated and molten portion of the optical fiber preform heated and molten by the heating device reaches 1800° C. or higher is T (min) and a OH group concentration in a cladding layer of the optical fiber preform is X (wtppm).
US07658066B2 Actuation device
The present invention relates to an actuation device for the actuating of an adjustment surface of an aircraft such as an elevator, a rudder or the like, of landing gear or another aircraft or surface vehicle actuator, comprising an electrohydraulic actuator having a servo control cylinder, a pump for pressure fluid action on the servo control cylinder as well as an electric motor for the actuation of the pump, with the electric motor having a liquid cooling. In accordance with the invention, the actuation device is characterized in that a leak flow of the pump is guided over a leak passage through the electric motor to cool the electric motor.
US07658062B2 Gas generator and turbojet fitted with such a generator for starting
A gas generator comprises a casing forming a ring or a ring portion and housing a pyrotechnic charge, the casing including at least one vent for ejecting the gas produced during combustion of the charge. Because of its ring design, the gas generator is easy to integrate in the structure of a rotary machine. In particular, it can constitute a starter device for a turbojet.
US07658061B2 Gas turbine engine provided with a foreign matter removal passage
To provide a gas turbine engine which is simple in structure but can effectively remove foreign matters from the combustion air.The intake passage 21 includes an inlet portion 29, a curved portion 30 and a reduced diameter portion 31. The bypass duct 24 is curved away from the central axial line CL in a region corresponding to the curved portion 30 and reduced diameter portion 31 of the intake passage 29. Between the intake passage 29 and bypass duct 24 is defined an annular space 32. In the reduced diameter portion 31, the outer liner 20 is formed with a large number of foreign matter introduction openings 33 in a circumferential arrangement for communication between the intake passage 21 and annular space 32. The inner casing 4 is formed with a plurality of foreign matter ejection holes 34 in a circumferential arrangement in a part thereof that curves outward for communication between the annular space 32 and bypass duct 24.
US07658060B2 Lubricant cooling exchanger dual intake duct
A heat exchange system for use in lubricating systems for aircraft turbofan engine equipment in which a lubricant is provided under pressure to spaces bounded at least in part by surfaces moving relative to one another, the heat exchange system for providing air and lubricant heat exchanges to cool the lubricant at selectively variable rates in the engine fan airstreams. A heat exchanger core is provided in a controlled air flow duct system opening at its plural entrances to the engine fan airstreams and having its outlet end opening about at the end of the fan duct nozzle.
US07658058B2 Methods and apparatus for guiding harvest residue
Methods and devices for guiding harvest residue at the time of harvest to prepare crops for strip-tilling operations. Embodiments of the invention include an attachment for a harvesting machine, and a method of harvesting a row crop in a way that directs harvest residue into relatively narrow strips, leaving strips of soil between the strips of harvest residue in better condition for strip-tilling. The management and placement of harvest residue during harvesting operations according to embodiments of the invention may improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of strip-tilling operations.
US07658052B2 Roof structure and method for making the same
Disclosed herein is a foam material upwardly adjacent and in air sealing contact with a roof deck, an insulation layer upwardly adjacent the foam material, and additional foam material upwardly adjacent the insulation layer.Further disclosed herein is a method for creating a roof system including air sealing a roof deck with a foam material, adhering insulation material to the foam material, and applying additional foam material upwardly adjacent the insulation layer.
US07658048B2 Floor panels with edge connectors
Floor covering, including hard floor panels which, at least at the edges of two opposite sides, are provided with coupling parts, cooperating which each other, substantially in the form of a tongue and a groove, wherein the coupling parts are provided with integrated mechanical locking elements which prevent the drifting apart of two coupled floor panels in a direction (R) perpendicular to the related edges and parallel to the underside of the coupled floor panels, and provide a snap-action coupling.
US07658042B2 Fire-protection walls of cementitious composite materials
A highly protective firewall (13) supported between upstanding columns or beams (15). The firewall is made of an inorganic cementitious material which is preferably inorganic phosphate cement. In one form, the firewall comprises a group of vertically stacked panels (14) made of such material, and the panels are in turn formed by a plurality of elongated and vertically stacked hollow members (21) of the same material.
US07658031B2 Handheld rangefinder operable to determine hold over ballistic information
A handheld rangefinder device operable to determine ballistic hold over information is disclosed. The rangefinder device generally includes a range sensor operable to determine a first range to a target, a tilt sensor operable to determine an angle to the target relative to the device, and a computing element, coupled with the range sensor and the tilt sensor, operable to determine a hold over value based on the first range and the determined angle. Such a configuration facilitates accurate firearm and bow use by providing ranges and hold over values without requiring time-consuming and manual user calculations.
US07658029B1 Vertical fore grip with bipod
Devices, systems and methods of using an ergonomic fore grip/gun handle with a concealable and collapsible bipod. One version can have a tubular recess consisting of a first cylindrical cutout housing the bipod legs when concealed and a sliding piston that deploys the legs and a second cylindrical cutout housing a release mechanism and a void space for other accessories. The release mechanism has a compression spring positioned between the piston assembly and the bottom of the first cylindrical cutout and the compression spring. The legs are connected to the bottom of the piston assembly via a hinge and spring that when released from confinement within the fore grip, causes the legs to expand outward until fully deployed. Telescoping legs allow adjustment of leg length for use on uneven terrain. The grip portion has an outer surface with a flat surface on sides of the grip to provide a more stable grip, assist in orienting the mounted weapon and support pressure pads for lights.
US07658025B2 Retainer pin and tooth for tooth and adaptor assembly
A retainer pin assembly and tooth for an excavation tooth and adaptor assembly is provided. The retainer pin assembly can comprise at least one retainer pin section having a circular longitudinal main body with chamfered leading edges at one end for insertion into a passageway in the adaptor, and a displacement-bearing block having at least one facet disposed at the opposite end. The tooth can comprise at least one opening on a sidewall having one flat vertical bearing surface to correspond to a facet of the displacement-bearing block when a retainer pin section is inserted into the adaptor passageway. Magnets can be disposed on the chamfered ends of a pair of retainer pin sections to urge the retainer pin sections towards one another when inserted in the adaptor passageway.
US07658004B2 Method and device for the finish machining of gas-turbine engine blades cast in a brittle material
For the finish machining of turbine blades cast in titanium aluminide, the feeders (3) and runner portions (6) yielded by the casting process remain on the blade and serve as auxiliary clamping structure for clamping the blade to the workpiece carrier (15). In a position corresponding to the reference points for machining, clamping surfaces (12) with conical recesses (13), followed by threaded holes (14) are produced on the runners. For clamping the workpiece to a workpiece carrier (15), spring-loaded taper centering sleeves (18) arranged in the workpiece carrier or clamping bolts (21), respectively, engage the conical recesses and threaded holes, to enable the blade to be clamped and machined by way of the auxiliary clamping structure in the position corresponding to the reference points.
US07658001B1 Electrical connector for disk drive suspension assembly and method of non-contact solder attachment of same
A method for electrically connecting disk drive suspension assembly elements including positioning a first component having a first terminal with an edge adjacent to a second component having a second terminal and applying solder to form a solder joint over the edge of the first terminal and onto the second terminal. Heat to melt the solder is provided from a source that is physically remote from the components.
US07657994B2 Method for installing a switch pad
Methods and apparatuses are disclosed for assembling a first component, such as a switch pad, to a second component, such as a circuit board.
US07657988B2 Method and apparatus for manufacturing interchangeable and replaceable parts
A manufacturing method and apparatus is disclosed, whereby a specific production process is used in conjunction with a specific tooling methodology to provide a tooling process package that is capable of controlling tolerance stack-ups and process variations by accounting for them at each step in the process. One application particularly suited for the present invention is in the manufacturing of panels that are assembled to form the skins of a tiltrotor aircraft (11).
US07657980B2 Fastener for a lace
A fastener for a lace includes a metal base, two clamp assemblies, a pull unit, and an anchoring member. Each of the clamp assemblies includes a substantially U-shaped member which has two opposite arms pivotally connected to the metal base, a U-bend connected to the arms opposite to the metal base, and a clamp member connected between and transverse to the arms. The pull unit includes a middle portion disposed over the metal base, and two opposite pull members extending from the middle portion and connected respectively to the U-shaped members. The anchoring member is made of metal, and has a press part pressing the middle portion of the pull unit against the metal base, and a plurality of anchoring legs extending from the press part, penetrating the middle portion of the pull unit, and welded to the metal base.
US07657978B2 Safety buckle
A safety buckle includes an intermediate buckle member, which has two opposite receiving holes and two smoothly arched grooves on the top and bottom sides in each receiving hole, and two connecting buckle members each having a plug insertable into the receiving holes of the intermediate buckle member and raised portions protruded from the top and bottom sides of the plug for engaging the smoothly arched grooves to secure the respective connecting buckle member to the intermediate buckle member for allowing the connecting buckle members to be biased relative to the intermediate buckle member within a predetermined angle. In an alternate form of the safety buckle, the locations of the raised portions and the locations of the smoothly arched grooves are exchanged.
US07657976B2 Hanger
A hanger allows a height position of an object to adjusted easily after the object is hung when hanging the object using wire rope. The hanger includes wire rope inserted through a lock case and has a wire grip mechanism and a hook, wherein a height position of the lock case with respect to the wire rope can be adjusted after the object is hung on the hook.
US07657975B2 Endless boot fixing band and manufacturing method thereof
The rotation of the band in relation to a boot to be fastened is prevented, so that reduction of the boot-fastening force is prevented, thereby preventing leakage of grease from a boot to be fastened, and so that boot-bands can be manufactured simply. An endless boot-fixing band 1 is formed as an endless ring, and is reduced in diameter by plastic deformation so as to fasten a boot by applying pressure onto said boot's outer surface. The boot band is formed entirely of an Al—Mg—Si alloy, and a surface-pressure-altering part 3, which changes the surface pressure for fastening the boot, is formed on the inner surface of the band.
US07657973B1 Handle adaptor for transport carts and the like and associated method
A handle adaptor for transport carts includes a block-shaped lower member with first, second, third and fourth upper surfaces with inner edges. The inner edges are disposed below the inner edges of the first and second upper surfaces. A fifth upper surface is formed the inner edges and coextensively shaped posts are monolithically formed with the outside faces of the lower member. The posts have apertures formed in distal ends. A block-shaped upper member has lower surfaces with a passageway surrounding the proximal ends of the handles of the transport. The upper member further includes a curved flange with a groove that receives and captures the U-shaped extension. The upper and lower members have passageways. A support plate includes a bracket with threaded shafts and a centrally registered slot. A cover has threaded aperture and a centrally registered slot. The adjustably pivoting mechanism includes a plurality of cotter pins.
US07657971B2 Virtual hinge
A support system includes a frame member and a cover magnetically coupled to one another proximate an edge of the cover and in an aligned state. The cover is rotatable with respect to the frame member without any structural coupling therebetween while the frame member and cover remain substantially in the aligned state. A method of supporting a cover with respect to a frame includes magnetically attracting the cover and frame to each other proximate an edge of the cover.
US07657963B2 Wiper motor
By reducing thickness of a slidable contact member which is attached to an output shaft and a sector gear part and slidably contacts with a gear case, a wiper motor is downsized. A motive power conversion member comprises: an arm part rotatably connected to the worm wheel; and a sector gear part meshing with the output gear, wherein a gear shaft of the sector gear part is swingably supported with respect to the output shaft by a swinging plate. A first slidable contact member is mounted on a tip of the output shaft, and a second slidable contact part which is formed separately from the first slidable contact member is attached to a tip of the gear shaft, wherein the first slidable contact member and the second slidable contact part slidably contact with a cover of the gear case.
US07657954B1 Head and face covering apparatus
A head and face covering apparatus includes a flexible housing that defines a pillow case and is U-shaped. The housing includes a central portion and a pair of arms extending away from the central portion. The housing has an elongated opening therein. A pillow is removably extendable into the housing through the opening. A flexible head covering is attached to the housing and extends upwardly therefrom. The head covering includes a rear wall, a pair of lateral walls, and a top wall. The top and lateral walls form a continuous front edge defining an opening extending into a front side of the head covering. The rear and lateral walls are attached to the housing. The head covering has an internal volume greater than 1.0 cubic feet to allow a person's face to be encapsulated by the head covering when the person abuts their head against the rear wall.
US07657953B2 Birthing bed calf support
A limb support coupled to a patient-support apparatus includes a multi-axis pivot mount having a first joint mounted to the patient-support apparatus, an arm coupled to the first joint on a first end for pivotable movement thereabout, and a second joint coupled to a second end of the arm for pivotable movement thereabout. A cushion assembly is mounted to the second joint for pivotable movement of the cushion assembly in relation to the second joint.
US07657951B2 Support and transfer apparatus for transport of an incapacitated individual
A patient transport apparatus includes a sling for movement of a person from or into a vehicle seat supported by a dual legged horizontal frame mounted on rollers or wheels with a generally vertical, telescoping post having a cantilever arm extending therefrom. A cable or strap supported by the cantilever arm is attached to the adjustable body sling which designed to securely hold a patient during transport.
US07661144B2 Apparatus and method for moving contents having a restricted number of copies between storage media
A method of managing content, the method being performed by a device including an analyzing unit and a control unit. The method includes judging, via the analyzing unit, whether the content can be moved to an external entity based on moving control information, the moving control information being different from copy control information indicating whether the copy of the content is permitted, determining whether an authentication with the external entity is needed in order to move the content to the external entity, if the judging step judges that the content can be moved, and controlling, via the control unit, a moving operation of the content to the external entity such that the content can be moved to the external entity without the authentication if the determining step determines the authentication is not needed.
US07661137B2 Distributed computation in untrusted computing environments using distractive computational units
An apparatus, program product and method initiate the execution of distractive computational units along with the execution of other computational units on an untrusted computer to inhibit the reconstitution of a computation by an untrusted party. In particular, along with partitioning a particular computation into a plurality of computational units, one or more distractive computational units are generated and supplied to one or more resource providers for execution along with those of the partitioned computation.
US07661131B1 Authentication of tunneled connections
Systems and methods are described for authentication of tunneled connections. A method includes establishing a first connection (CIO) from an inner agent to an outer agent including making a first TCP connection from the inner agent to the outer agent, negotiating a first SSL/TLS session (SSLSessionIO) between the inner agent and the outer agent over the first TCP connection and applying the second SSL/TLS session (SSLSessionIO) between the inner agent and the outer agent over the first TCP connection; establishing a second connection (CCO) from a client and the outer agent including making a second TCP connection from the client to the outer agent, negotiating a second SSL/TLS session (SSLSessionCO) between the client and the outer agent over the second TCP connection and applying the second SSL/TLS session (SSLSessionCO) between the client and the outer agent over the second TCP connection; and then negotiating a third SSL/TLS session (SSLSessionCI) between the client and the inner agent via both the first SSL/TLS session (SSLSessionIO) and the second SSL/TLS session (SSLSessionCO) and applying the third SSL/TLS session (SSLSessionCI) between the client and the inner agent layered over both the first SSL/TLS session (SSLSessionIO) and the second SSL/TLS session (SSLSessionCO), wherein negotiating the second SSL/TLS session (SSLSessionCO) includes verifying at the outer agent that the client possesses a certificate signed with a certificate associated with the inner agent.
US07661126B2 Systems and methods for authenticating a user interface to a computer user
Access to an authentication image may be protected so that only authenticated processes have access to the image. The image can be displayed to authenticate a User Interface (UI) to a computer user. The image indicates the UI can be trusted. If the image is not displayed, it may be that an application UI is “spoofed” to trick a user into providing sensitive information. Additionally, a large variety of different images can be used as authentication images, so spoofing one image be recognized by most users. A set of original images may be provided, along with image modification processes which can generate a large number of variations. Techniques for authenticating UIs in a virtual machine context are provided. A secure attention sequence is also provided, which allows users to test whether processes running on a computer are authenticated.
US07661125B2 System for providing and utilizing a network trusted context
A system for establishing a connection between a data server and a middleware server is disclosed. The system includes defining a plurality of trust attributes corresponding to a trusted context between the middleware server and the data server and validating the plurality of trust attributes against a plurality of attributes corresponding to the middleware server. The plurality of attributes provided in a connection request. The system also includes establishing the trusted context based on the validating the plurality of trust attributes.
US07661120B2 Automated transport stream apparatus and method
A mapping processor is configured to receive a current PAT from the input data stream, and to compare input program numbers in the current PAT to known program numbers in the stored format table. If the input program numbers in the current PAT are the same as the input program numbers in the stored format table, then another data stream is output having output program numbers from the stored format table. If the input program numbers in the current PAT are not the same as the input program numbers in the stored format table, then another data stream is output having reassigned output program numbers. The reassigned output program numbers may be from another stored format table in the memory, if the other stored format table has input program numbers that match the input program numbers in the current PAT. If not the reassigned output program numbers may be newly generated.
US07661105B2 Exception types within a secure processing system
An apparatus for processing data includes a processor operable in a plurality modes including at least one secure mode being a mode in a secure domain and at least one non-secure mode being a mode in a non-secure domain. When the processor is executing a program in a secure mode the program has access to secure data which is not accessible when the processor is operating in a non-secure mode. The processor is responsive to one or more exception conditions for triggering exception processing using an exception handler. The processor is operable to select the exception handler from among a plurality of possible exception handlers in dependence upon whether the processor is operating in the secure domain or the non-secure domain.
US07661099B2 Using idempotent operations to improve transaction performance
A method for optimizing a transaction consisting of an initial sequence of computer operations, the method including identifying one or more idempotent operations in the initial sequence. The method further includes reordering the initial sequence to form a reordered sequence consisting of a first sub-sequence of the computer operations followed by a second sub-sequence of the computer operations. The second sub-sequence has only the one or more idempotent operations.
US07661082B1 System and method for abstraction refinement verification
An apparatus and methods for the verification of digital design descriptions are provided. In an exemplary embodiment, a method of verifying a property in a digital design description is provided. The method includes deriving an abstraction of the digital design description, determining a counterexample by an approximate reachable state computation, justifying the counterexample, determining a justification frontier, updating the abstraction from the justification frontier, and producing a verification result for the digital design description. One feature of this embodiment is that it provides for efficient digital circuit verification. This Abstract is provided for the sole purpose of complying with the Abstract requirement rules that allow a reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the disclosure contained herein. This Abstract is submitted with the explicit understanding that it will not be used to interpret or to limit the scope or the meaning of the claims.
US07661079B2 Designing and operating of semiconductor integrated circuit by taking into account process variation
A method of designing a semiconductor integrated circuit includes defining a tolerable range in which an operating temperature and an operating power supply voltage of a semiconductor integrated circuit are allowed to vary, computing a target temperature and a target power supply voltage that cancel variation in circuit characteristics caused by process variation of the semiconductor integrated circuit, separately for each circuit characteristic responsive to the process variation, and designing the semiconductor integrated circuit such that the semiconductor integrated circuit properly operates with any temperature and power supply voltage within the tolerable range based on an assumption that the semiconductor integrated circuit is to operate within the tolerable range centered substantially at the target temperature and target power supply voltage.
US07661074B2 Keyboard accelerator
Improved keyboard accelerators are provided for executing functionalities of a software application utilizing text-based and non text-based buttons or controls. Upon selection of a prescribed keyboard accelerator initiation key, for example, the “Alt” key, a keyboard accelerator key tip in the form of a small window is displayed over the functionality buttons or controls displayed in a deployed user interface. Each key tip is labeled with one or more text characters for informing a user as to a secondary keyboard selection that must be made to execute the associated functionality.
US07661073B2 User interface of a machine tool
A user interface of a machine tool includes a display that is divided into at least a first display region and a second display region. The first display region permanently displays a main menu, and the main menu includes a menu bar that provides a selection of different main modes of the user interface. Each main mode is associated with a main window that is opened in the second display region when a main mode is selected in the main menu. At least one of the main windows includes a permanently displayed submenu that provides selection of different submodes, with each submode being associated with a subwindow that is opened when an associated submode is selected. One or more of the main windows and the subwindows include input fields. The user interface also includes an input unit for selecting the individual modes and for processing the input fields provided in a window. The display permanently displays which one of the main modes is selected.
US07661072B2 Accelerated scrolling
A system and method for accelerating scrolling of a display is disclosed. When a wheel of a wheeled pointing device is actuated by a user at a first rotational rate, the display in a window scrolls up or down one line at a time. When the wheel is rotated at a second rotational rate, the display in the window scrolls up or down multiple lines at a time. In additional embodiments, the scrolling technique shifts from one line at a time/multiple lines at a time to a page or pages at a time when the wheel is rotated for at a rotational rate for a minimum period of time.
US07661071B2 Creation of three-dimensional user interface
A three-dimensional (3-D) user interface (UI) creation system maps a two-dimensional (2-D), interactive UI to an 3-D object template in a 3-D scene. Once mapped, the 2-D UI functions as a simple user interface while appearing as a skin to the 3-D object. A 3-D UI creation tool applies image resources of a 2-D UI template to a 3-D wire frame template to create a 3-D UI. The system provides for rapid implementation of a 3-D UI without need for understanding a 3-D space or 3-D authoring software. The process includes preparing a 2-D UI, loading a 3-D scene of 3-D objects, and mapping the 2-D UI to a 3-D object template in the 3-D scene. A scheme file provides a specification for recreating the 3-D scene in a runtime module whereby the 3-D scene functions as a 3-D UI system, allowing interaction via a user input system.
US07661062B1 System and method of analyzing an HTML document for changes such that the changed areas can be displayed with the original formatting intact
The invention is a computer-based method for analyzing two versions of an HTML document that identifies new or changed areas of the document while preserving the original textual formatting, including embedded graphics. An HTML document is scanned and the information organized into groupings of HTML tags and text. A set of rules determines which HTML tags are permitted within a group, and which mark the start of a new group. Tags that mark the start of a new group are usually those that break the flow of text when an HTML page is rendered. As a result, the text that constitutes a paragraph, embedded hypertext links, and any associated HTML character-formatting elements are contained within a single group. A modified version of the same HTML document is similarly processed. At this point, the two can be compared group by group in order to detect differences. Any group that does not match the associated group in the original is considered to be a modified group. The modified groups can then be inserted as sections into a new HTML document, and these sections appear to have nearly all of the original formatting intact. Thus, they appear as clipped sections from the original HTML document, and are useful for depicting regions of interest.
US07661059B2 High performance turbo and Viterbi channel decoding in digital signal processors
A digital signal processor performs turbo and Virterbi channel decoding in wireless systems. The computation block of the digital signal processor is provided with an accelerator for executing instructions associated with trellis computations. An ACS instruction performs trellis computations of alpha and beta metrics. Multiple butterfly calculations can be performed in response to a single instruction. A TMAX instruction is used to calculate the log likelihood ratio of the trellis.
US07661056B2 Circuit arrangement for processing data
Circuit arrangement including an encoding unit having a first input for receiving an address word and a second input for receiving a data word and a check word, wherein the encoding unit outputs an alarm signal if the check word does not correspond to at least the address word or the data word.
US07661054B2 Methods and arrangements to remap degraded storage blocks
Methods and arrangements to remap degraded storage blocks on, e.g., IDE/ATA drives are disclosed. Embodiments may comprise a host and/or a data storage device for, e.g., a handheld device. The host may comprise remapping logic. In many embodiments, the remapping logic may track degraded storage blocks as indicated by the data storage device. In several embodiments, the host may remap data from degraded storage blocks in response to indications from the data storage device that the degraded storage blocks have degraded to a point at which further use may risk loss of data. The data storage device may execute error correction code to acquire valid data and if error correction measures exceed a threshold, or are otherwise determined to be excessive, the data storage device may communicate the degradation of the storage block to the host. Other embodiments may be disclosed and claimed.
US07661051B2 System to reduce programmable range specifications for a given target accuracy in calibrated electronic circuits
An apparatus comprising a comparator circuit, a reference circuit, a plurality of elements and a logic circuit. The comparator circuit may be configured to generate a difference signal in response to (i) a reference signal and (ii) a test signal. The reference circuit configured to generate the reference signal in response to a first control signal. The plurality of elements may each be configured to generate an intermediate test signal. One of the intermediate test signals may be presented as the test signal by activating one of the test elements, in response to a second control signal. The logic circuit may be configured to generate (i) the first control signal and (ii) the second control signal, each in response to the difference signal.
US07661029B2 Information processing apparatus with resume function and information processing system
An information processing apparatus having a resume function which can maintain the security even when a plurality of users commonly use the apparatus. A work state at a power-off time of the apparatus is preserved together with a work state name including a user's ID in a different area in a plurality of preservation areas for resume function on a main memory for each user. When a power source is again turned on, data in the preservation area corresponding to the user's ID is used to reproduce the work state of the user at the power-off time. The work preservation areas can be provided on a file server apparatus in a network not needing battery back-up. When the information processing apparatus is used, a work state at a power-off time can be independently preserved and reproduced for each user.
US07661022B2 System for error handling in a dual adaptor system where one adaptor is a master
Provided is a system for processing Input/Output (I/O) requests to a storage network including at least one storage device and at least two adaptors, wherein each adaptor is capable of communicating I/O requests to the at least one storage device. An error is detected in a system including a first adaptor, wherein the first adaptor is capable of communicating on the network after the error is detected. In response to detecting the error, a master switch timer is started that is less than a system timeout period if the first adaptor is the master. An error recovery procedure in the system including the first adaptor would be initiated after the system timeout period has expired. An operation is initiated to designate another adaptor in the storage network as the master if the first adaptor is the master in response to detecting an expiration of the master switch timer.
US07661014B2 Network storage appliance with integrated server and redundant storage controllers
A network storage appliance is disclosed. The appliance includes a chassis enclosing a backplane, and a server enclosed in the chassis and coupled to the backplane. The appliance also includes storage controllers enclosed in the chassis, each coupled to the backplane, which control transfer of data between the server and storage devices coupled to the storage controllers. The storage controllers also control transfer of data between the storage devices and computers networked to the appliance and external to the appliance. The storage controllers and the server comprise a plurality of hot-replaceable blades. Any one of the plurality of blades may be replaced during operation of the appliance without loss of access to the storage devices by the computers. In one embodiment, the server executes storage application software, such as backup software for backing up data on the storage devices, such as to a tape device networked to the server.
US07661005B2 Individual storage device power control in a multi-device array
Method and apparatus for controllably applying input power to storage devices in a multi-device array. The array preferably includes a circuit which changes input power state of the storage devices in a time-staggered sequence. Preferably, the change of input power state transitions the array from an operationally deactivated state to an operationally activated state, or vice versa. The storage devices preferably store data in accordance with a selected RAID configuration. A power supply preferably supplies respective first and second direct current (dc) voltages to each of the storage devices, and the circuit respectively connects the dc voltages to the storage devices in a selected sequential order. The circuit further preferably changes an input power state of a single storage device of the array in accordance with a selected time-varying profile. The profile is preferably applied to a gate of a switching device to control a source-drain conduction path.
US07661000B2 Information processing device, information recording medium and information processing method, and computer program
A configuration is provided which improves scrambling processing of content and eliminates unauthorized use of content. Scramble rules which differ for each content are used for content scrambling processing. For example, in the event of using shuffling processing, various shuffle states are specified as scramble rules. In the event of using Exclusive-OR processing, a value applicable to EXOR is specified as the scramble rule. Also, in the event of using rotation processing, a shift amount is specified as the scramble rule. In the event of using 32 shuffle elements in shuffling processing, 32! different shuffle states, that is to say, 32! different scramble rules can be specified. Also, the values for EXOR or the rotation shift amount can be set as various values, and many scramble rules can be set.
US07660999B2 MIME handling security enforcement
A model restricts un-trusted data/objects from running on a user's machine without permission. The data is received by a protocol layer that reports a MIME type associated with the DATA, and caches the data and related cache file name (CFN). A MIME sniffer is arranged to identify a sniffed MIME type based on the cached data, the CFN, and the reported MIME type. Reconciliation logic evaluates the sniffed MIME type and the CFN to determine a reconciled MIME type, and to update the CFN. A class ID sniffer evaluates the updated CFN, the cached data, and the reconciled MIME type to determine an appropriate class ID. Security logic evaluates the updated CFN, the reported class ID, and other related system parameters to build a security matrix. Parameters from the security matrix are used to intercept data/objects before an un-trusted data/object can create a security breach on the machine.
US07660998B2 Relatively unique ID in integrated circuit
A method of manufacturing a series of integrated circuits having related functionality, the method including the steps of: (a) determining an identifier; (b) permanently storing the identifier on one of the integrated circuits; (c) repeating steps (a) and (b) for each integrated circuit in the series; and wherein the identifiers for the series are determined in such a way that knowing the identifier of one of the integrated circuits does not improve the ability of an attacker to determine the identifier of any of the other integrated circuits.
US07660994B2 Access control
An administration entity controls access to an electronic device by generating credentials and a plurality of corresponding proofs, wherein no valid proofs are determinable given only the credentials and values for expired proofs. The electronic device receives the credentials and, if access is authorized at a particular time, the electronic device receives a proof corresponding to the particular time and confirms the proof using the credentials. A single administration entity may generate the credentials and generate the proofs and/or there may be a first administration entity that generates the credentials and other administration entities that generate proofs. The credentials may be a digital certificate that includes a final value that is a result of applying a one way function to a first one of the proofs.
US07660991B2 Embedding, processing and detection of digital content, information and data
Enables identification and detection of processing and type of digital content, while using multiple electronic watermarks. One embodiment provides a data processing detection system having an embedding apparatus for adding a predetermined additional signal to digital content, including a watermark design unit and embedding signal generators for generating multiple types of additional signals, correlated with each other and of differing robustness from each other for the processing of the content data, and a synthesis unit for adding the multiple types of additional signals to the content data; and detection apparatus for detecting additional signals in the digital content, and for detecting the additional signals embedded by the embedding apparatus, including an individual detector for detecting in the content data multiple additional signals, and a determination unit for examining deterioration levels of the additional signals to determine the type of processing performed for the content data.
US07660990B1 Method for establishing a secure Ad Hoc wireless LAN
Secure communications on a network. An unauthenticated client on an network sends start packets to locate other clients. The unauthenticated client receives responses to the start packets from other clients on the network. The responses may be advertise packets that are from advertising clients that may be authenticated clients or other unauthenticated clients in authenticated mode. The unauthenticated client prioritizes the received packets so that authentication can be performed with the most desirable advertising client. Authentication packets are sent and received between the unauthenticated client and the advertising client in an attempt to authenticate.
US07660985B2 Program security through stack segregation
For each process a stack data structure that includes two stacks, which are joined at their bases, is created. The two stacks include a normal stack, which grows downward, and an inverse stack, which grows upward. Items on the stack data structure are segregated into protected and unprotected classes. Protected items include frame pointers and return addresses, which are stored on the normal stack. Unprotected items are function parameters and local variables. The unprotected items are stored on the inverse stack.
US07660981B1 Verifiable chain of transfer for digital documents
Methods and apparatus, including computer systems and program products, related to techniques for creating a chain of transfer for a digital document in which every transferor and transferee participates in the transfer. A first entity, e.g., an offeror with current control of the document, generates an offeror certificate associated with the digital document, and encrypts the offeror certificate with the offeror's private key. The offeror transmits the encrypted offeror certificate to a second entity, e.g., an offeree that will be the subsequent controller of the document. The offeree generates an offeree certificate from the offeror certificate, encrypts the offeree certificate with the offeree's private key, and transmits the encrypted offeree certificate to the offeror. When the offeror receives the offeree certificate, the offeror adds the offeree to a chain of transfer for the document and generates a transfer certificate for the offeree.
US07660973B2 System and apparatus for group data operations
Systems and apparatuses are presented relating a programmable processor comprising an execution unit that is operable to decode and execute instructions received from an instruction path and partition data stored in registers in the register file into multiple data elements, the execution unit capable of executing a plurality of different group floating-point and group integer arithmetic operations that each arithmetically operates on multiple data elements stored registers in a register file to produce a catenated result that is returned to a register in the register file, wherein the catenated result comprises a plurality of individual results, wherein the execution unit is capable of executing group data handling operations that re-arrange data elements in different ways in response to data handling instructions.
US07660971B2 Method and system for dependency tracking and flush recovery for an out-of-order microprocessor
A method for dependency tracking and flush recovery for an out-of-order processor includes recording, in a last definition (DEF) data structure, an identifier of a first instruction as the most recent instruction in an instruction sequence that defines contents of the particular logical register and recording, in a next DEF data structure, the identifier of the first instruction in association with an identifier of a previous second instruction also indicating an update to the particular logical register. In addition, a recovery array is updated to indicate which of the instructions in the instruction sequence updates each of the plurality of logical registers. In response to misspeculation during execution of the instruction sequence, the processor performs a recovery operation to place the identifier of the second instruction in the last DEF data structure by reference to the next DEF data structure and the recovery array.
US07660968B2 Reconfigurable interface for coupling functional input/output blocks to limited number of I/O pins
A reconfigurable processor includes a processor core for operating on a set of instructions to carry out predefined processes and includes a plurality of input/output pins in addition to a plurality of functional input/output blocks. These functional blocks allow the processing core to interface with the plurality of input/output pins, each of the functional input/output blocks having an associated and predetermined functionality. This functionality comprises the output as a function of the input, the function defined by the functionality. Each of the functional input/output blocks has a requirement for a defined number of the plurality of input/output pins wherein the total of the defined number for all of the plurality of functional input/output blocks exceeds the number of the plurality of input/output pins and wherein the processor core is interfaced with one of the input or output of each of the functional blocks. A reconfigurable interface selectively interfaces between the other of the input or output of the functional blocks and a select one or ones of the plurality of input/output pins, such that the processor core can be interfaced with the select one or ones of the input/output pins. The reconfigurable interface is operable to define how each of the plurality of input/output pins interfaces with the select ones of the plurality of functional blocks and the associated functionality in accordance with configuration information. A non-volatile memory is provided for storing information for use in association with the configuration information, such that the stored information can be altered.
US07660958B2 Maintaining consistency for remote copy using virtualization
Provided are a system and article of manufacture for copying storage, wherein a first unit receives data updates from a second unit. The data updates are stored in a plurality of physical storage locations associated with the first unit. Links are generated to at least one of the plurality of physical storage locations to achieve consistent data between the first unit and the second unit.
US07660957B2 Data processing system
A data processing system has a plurality of storage systems. In this system, data replication is performed at high speed and efficiency while maintaining data integrity. In addition, when failure has occurred in a configuration element, the time necessary to resume the data replication is reduced. In accordance with an instruction from first host computer, updating of replication-target data and creation of a journal are performed in a storage system A; and updating of replication data and creation of a journal are performed in a storage system B. A storage system C retrieves a journal from the storage system B in asynchronization with the updating, and performs updating of replication data. When failure has occurred in the storage system B, a journal-retrieving end is altered to the storage system, and the replication data is updated in accordance with the retrieved journal.
US07660956B1 Save set bundling for staging
Backing up data blocks is disclosed. An indication that a first set of one or more backed up data blocks are related at an application level to one or more other sets of one or more backed up data blocks is received. An associating data that associates the first set of backed up data blocks with the one or more other sets of backed up data blocks is stored. The associating data is used to ensure that the first set and the one or more other sets remain stored together.
US07660955B2 Node polling in consistency group formation
Provided are a method, system, deployment and program for managing data transfer in consistency group formation. In one embodiment, nodes are periodically polled to determine traffic conditions. An estimated drain time for a node such as the most congested node, for example, is compared to a drain time limit and if within a vicinity of the drain time limit, operations switch to a consistency group formation mode. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US07660954B2 Techniques for saving data
The invention concerns a system for saving data derived from a mainframe characterized in that it comprises a computer equipment including an input/output interface for exchanging data with the guest computer, said interface comprising a backup document reader/inscriber emulator, at least one intermediate storage device and a tape document reader/inscriber, the equipment further comprising a processor for transfer between the input/output interface or the intermediate storage device and the key-to-tape reader/inscriber, the system further including a supervisor comprising a storage unit for recording data concerning key-to-tape recordings of the computer equipment, and for controlling said computer equipment according to instructions coming from the guest computer.
US07660949B2 Exactly once cache framework
A system for managing objects in a clustered network includes a file system containing at least one copy of a data object. The system can include several clustered servers in communication with the file system. A distributed consensus algorithm is used to select a host server. The selected host server can contain a copy of the data object, such as in local cache, providing access to the local copy to any other server in the cluster. Any change made to an item hosted by the host server can also be updated in the file system. If the host server becomes unable to host the object, a new host can be chosen using the distributed consensus algorithm. The other servers are then notified of the new host by multicast messaging.
US07660948B2 Arranging and destaging data to holographic storage
Data for storage by holographic data storage is arranged in an intermediate data storage as data segments which are replicas of holographic storage segments. Files of data are aggregated into the data segments, and a destaging control determines the destaging of the data segments to the holographic data storage in accordance with a plurality of policies, such as whether a segment is full, a time threshold has been reached, or whether a threshold number of segments are “open”. The intermediate data storage may be arranged into a number of partitions at least equal to the number of sources having input to the data destaging system, the partitions comprising integral multiples of the data segments.
US07660946B2 Storage control system and storage control method
Provided is a storage control system in which a number of storage controllers are connected, and restored data is forwarded from one storage controller to the other storage controller. This storage control system is configured by a first storage controller and a second storage controller being connected in a mutually communicable manner, and which performs data processing according to a request from a host system, the first storage controller having a virtual volume associated with a logical volume of the second storage controller; a cache memory associated with the virtual volume; and a control unit for controlling the data processing between the cache memory and the virtual volume; wherein the control unit purges the storage area of the cache memory corresponding to the virtual volume accessed by the host system upon storing the restored data of the logical volume in the cache memory.
US07660943B2 Data storage drive for automated data storage library
A method, system, and a device have a data storage drive for an automated data storage library in which a data storage drive may have in one embodiment, both a host-drive interface port and a host-library interface port. In one aspect, drive commands from a host system are conducted primarily through the host-drive interface port and a host-drive interface path to a drive controller of the data storage drive. In addition, library commands from the host system to a library controller may be conducted primarily through the host-library interface port and a host-library interface path to a library communication port of the data storage drive. In one embodiment, the drive commands from a host system are conducted primarily through the host-drive interface port and the host-drive interface path to a drive controller of the data storage drive. In addition, the library commands from a host system are conducted primarily through the host-library interface port and the host-library interface path to the library communication port of the data storage drive. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US07660933B2 Memory and I/O bridge
The present invention is directed to an improved memory and I/O bridge that provides an improved interface for communicating data between the data bus of the system processor and the memory controller. The memory and I/O bus bridge according to the present invention provides increased performance in the system. The memory and I/O bridge can include a deep memory access request FIFO to queue up memory access requests when the memory controller is busy. The memory and I/O bridge can include a memory write data buffer for holding and merging memory write operations to the same page of memory. The memory and I/O bridge can include a memory read data buffer for holding and queuing data and instructions read from memory, waiting to be forward to the data bus. The memory data read buffer can operate in one or more software selectable prefetch modes, which can cause one or more pages to be read in response to a single memory read instruction. The memory read data buffer can satisfy memory read request for data or instructions already held in the memory read buffer without reading the data or instructions from memory. The memory read data buffer can also provide for data coherency with respect the memory write data buffer and the external memory. The memory and I/O bridge can also include performance counters for tracking information about the performance of the memory and I/O bridge in order to tune the software operation and determine the optimum prefetch mode for a given application.
US07660924B2 Semiconductor integrated circuit device which executes data transfer between a plurality of devices connected over network, and data transfer method
A semiconductor integrated circuit device includes a first semiconductor device and a second semiconductor device, first and second buffer circuits, a data bus, and a control circuit. The semiconductor integrated circuit device executes data transmission/reception between the first and second semiconductor devices. The first and second buffer circuits store data. The data bus transmits the data between the first and second buffer circuits. The first semiconductor device reads out the transfer data into the first buffer circuit. The control circuit transfers the transfer data, which is stored in the first buffer circuit, to the second buffer circuit via the data bus. The control circuit acquires a right of use of the data bus after the first semiconductor device writes the transfer data into the first buffer circuit, and disclaims the right of use of the data bus after the transfer data is transferred to the second buffer circuit.
US07660915B2 Input/output device with configuration, fault isolation and redundant fault assist functionality
A process control system is provided having a plurality of I/O devices in communication using a bus. A primary redundant I/O device and a secondary redundant I/O device are coupled to the bus, where the secondary redundant I/O device is programmed to detect a primary redundant I/O device fault. The secondary redundant I/O device, upon detecting the primary redundant I/O device fault, publishes a primary redundant I/O device fault message on the bus. The controller may deactivate the primary redundant I/O device and activate the secondary redundant I/O device responsive to the primary redundant I/O device fault message.
US07660908B2 Implementing virtual packet storage via packet work area
A method, apparatus and computer program product are provided for implementing virtual packet storage via packet work area (PWA) in a network processor system. A mapping area including a packet work area and a corresponding set of packet segment registers (PSRs) are provided. A PSR is loaded with a Packet ID (PID) and a packet translation unit maps the packet data into the corresponding PWA. The PWA address defining an offset into the packet is translated into a physical address. The packet translation unit redirects loads and stores of the PWA into the correct data buffer or buffers in system memory. Packets include one or more data buffers that are chained together, using a buffer descriptor providing the packet physical address. The buffer descriptor points to a data buffer for the packet and to a next buffer descriptor.
US07660907B2 Transmission packet for performing multi-functions over network and communication method and apparatus using the transmission packet
A transmission packet usable to perform multiple operations including scanning and is transmitted via a network in order to achieve communications in at least one server shared by at least one client via the network. The transmission packet includes a version field, a packet form display field, an operation form display field, an attribute group field and/or a data group field, and an end field. The packet form display field has packet form display information that represents a form in which the transmission packet is generated. The operation form display field has operation form display information that represents a form of an operation using the transmission packet. The attribute group field and/or a data group field have one of first information associated with attributes of the operation and second information associated with data regarding the operation.
US07660900B2 System and method for connecting client to host
A system includes a support box containing hardware and software for connecting to a host application sever. The support box has an input for providing local settings. A memory connector is adapted to couple to a separate memory device containing connectivity and licensing information pertaining to a specific customer and enabling access to selected host application functions.
US07660898B2 Presence enhanced telephony service architecture
A telecommunications network is enhanced with a presence component. A session initiator requests a session with a session terminator by contacting a presence server. The presence server receives the request for presence information and processes the request by comparing the session initiator's identity to preferences of the session terminator to identify a preferred treatment. The presence server returns the preferred treatment to the session initiator. The session is then initiated or not initiated based upon the preferred treatment.
US07660897B2 Method, system, and program for distributing application transactions among work servers
Provided are a method, system, and program for distributing application transactions among work servers. Application transaction rates are determined for a plurality of applications supplying transactions to process. For each application, available partitions in at least one server are assigned to process the application transactions based on partition transaction rates of partitions in the servers. For each application, a determination is made of weights for each server including partitions assigned to the application based on a number of partitions in the server assigned to the application. The determined weights for each application are used to distribute application transactions among the servers including partitions assigned to the application.
US07660896B1 Method of load balancing edge-enabled applications in a content delivery network (CDN)
A method and system of load balancing application server resources operating in a distributed set of servers is described. In a representative embodiment, the set of servers comprise a region of a content delivery network. Each server is the set typically includes a server manager process, and an application server on which edge-enabled applications or application components are executed. As service requests are directed to servers in the region, the application servers manage the requests in a load-balanced manner, and without any requirement that a particular application server be spawned on-demand.
US07660895B2 Communication terminal accommodation apparatus and scheduling method
A DL resource control section 203 controls the status of communication resource assignment of a direct link type network. An MS resource control section 204 controls the status of communication resource assignment of a master-slave type network. When carrying out communications between terminal apparatus held in different networks, a transmission resource assigning section 205 refers to the status of communication resource assignment of the two networks controlled by the DL resource control section 203 and the MS resource control section 204 and assigns the same communication resources to both terminal apparatus of a transmitting side and a receiving side. Thus, the communication resources can be utilized effectively when carrying out communications between the terminal apparatus held in different networks respectively.
US07660861B2 System and method for verifying the identity of a sender of electronic mail and preventing unsolicited bulk email
The present invention provides a method and system for preventing unsolicited bulk email (UBE). Spammers sending UBE typically capitalize on the weakness of SMTP. The present invention affixes a subscriber key value to the local part of an email address. The email and associated key value are sent to a server where the subscriber key value, and subscriber and recipient email addresses are associated and stored into a database. Once stored, the email is sent to the ultimate recipient. A recipient is in possession of a subscriber key value can use this key value to sign an email they intend to send to the original subscriber/sender. Recipient will then send this signed email to a server where the association between the subscriber and the subscriber key value is verified. Once verified the email is sent to the subscriber. In some embodiments, the verification process is not controlled by a server.
US07660857B2 Systems and methods for automatically updating electronic mail access lists
A system and method for accepting a recipient identifier, wherein the recipient identifier can be used to identify an electronic mail (email) recipient; generating a petition based on the recipient identifier and at least one petition rule, wherein the at least one petition rule includes at least one of: 1) a sender identification method; and 2) a recipient; and wherein the petition can be used by a email provider to allow a recipient to receive email from a sender.
US07660855B2 Using a prediction algorithm on the addressee field in electronic mail systems
A computerized method for predicting/completing the addressee field in an electronic mail system, in which user-related history information, including the user's sent and/or received mail, is analyzed, using text mining and/or data mining techniques, for associating the most probable addressee for a given e-mail letter.
US07660849B1 Extending camp-on capabilities to invitees to an ongoing converence call
A method and system for extending Camp-On Capabilities to invitees to an ongoing conference call. In one embodiment, a persistent invitation is extended to a first network station client to join a conference call in response to a determination that the first network station client is unavailable to accept a non-persistent invitation to join the conference call, and the first network station client is added to the conference call when the first network station client accepts the persistent invitation to join the conference call. In another embodiment, a persistent invitation to join an ongoing conference call is presented to an initially unavailable network station client, and the persistent invitation to join the ongoing conference call is accepted in response to user input to a network station client including but not limited to the initially unavailable network station client and another network station client where the user has been authenticated.
US07660843B1 Method and apparatus for dynamically delivering a gadget
A portal server requests a gadget from a gadget server. The gadget server makes a copy of the gadget. The gadget server accesses a value to be assigned to a variable for the portal server. The value can be received as part of the request for the gadget, or can be stored on the gadget server, associated with the portal server. Assuming that a policy permits the variable to be assigned the value, any previous value assigned to the variable is overridden. The copy of the gadget is then delivered to the portal server.
US07660839B1 Digital filter having improved overload recovery characteristics
A digital filter having improved overload characteristics provides improved performance in audio equalizers and other systems. In contrast to a standard digital filter, clipping is enforced at the output of the filter and an integrator is used to implement the first filter stage, which is then followed by another stage that may be a unit delay or an integrator. Scalers and combiners are provided to scale an input signal representation and the output signal representation and combine them to provide the particular coefficient inputs to the integrator and the second stage forming a direct form filter. The resulting filter implements the same transfer function as a corresponding direct form filter, with an improved recovery from internal overload conditions. Higher-order filters can be formed by cascading the second-order filters formed by multiple integrator/second stage pairs.
US07660834B2 Maintaining an aggregate including active files in a storage pool
Provided are a method, system, and program for maintaining an aggregate including active files in a storage pool. One active-only storage pool is included in a plurality of storage pools. Each storage pool includes files and the active-only storage pool is intended to include only active files and not inactive versions of files. The active-only storage pool includes at least a first aggregate including a plurality of files. One file is deactivated in the first aggregate in the active only storage pool to produce an inactive version of the file, wherein the first aggregate includes the inactive version of the file. A determination is made of inactive versions of files in the first aggregate. A second aggregate is generated in the active only storage pool including the active files from the first aggregate and not including the determined inactive versions of files from the first aggregate. The second aggregate replaces the first aggregate in the active-only storage pool.
US07660831B2 Synchronization methods and systems
Widget synchronization architectures, methods, systems, and computer readable media are described. One exemplary embodiment includes a first software component which is configured to cause retrieval and storage of data for a first data class for one or more widgets from a first store of the data on a device, such as a first data processing system, and is configured to synchronize data for the first data class in the first store with data of the first data class in a second store on at least one of a host or another device, such as a second data processing system. The first software component is separate from a widget application software which provides a user interface to allow a user to use the data. The first software component synchronizes the structured data through a second software component which interfaces with the host and the device.
US07660828B2 Systems and methods for generating markup-language based expressions from multi-modal and unimodal inputs
When using finite-state devices to perform various functions, it is beneficial to use finite state devices representing regular grammars with terminals having markup-language-based semantics. By using markup-language-based symbols in the finite state devices, it is possible to generate valid markup-language expressions by concatenating the symbols representing the result of the performed function. The markup-language expression can be used by other applications and/or devices. Finite-state devices are used to convert strings of words and gestures into valid markup-language, for example, XML, expressions that can be used, for example, to provide an application program interface to underlying system applications.
US07660819B1 System for similar document detection
A document is compared to the documents in a document collection using a hash algorithm and collection statistics to detect if the document is similar to any of the documents in the document collection.
US07660817B2 System and method for representing content in a file system
A system and method for representing content state in a file system is provided. A file system includes a unique database object that is representative of the object content. The unique database object serves as a link container and includes a plurality of links to additional unique database objects that are properties of the representation of content. The link container database object also maintains additional fields that define additional properties for the representation of content.
US07660808B2 Automatically indexing a collection of files of a selected type
Media clips on a hard drive or other storage are automatically organized in collections and metadata automatically assigned to facilitate subsequent searching for media clips. A Clip Organizer software application initially scans a user's hard drive to identify folders containing user files of sound, picture, clip art, video and other media clips. Predefined types of folders are omitted in the scan to avoid identifying media clips that do not belong to the user or are part of another application program. A partially “flattened” collection hierarchy is created to simplify browsing the media clips. Sufficient empty files are included to enable a user to readily locate the collections, and metadata comprising keywords derived from the path of each media clip are associated with each of the media clips to facilitate subsequent searching for the files. In addition, the collection hierarchy is automatically updated as changes are made.
US07660805B2 Method of generating data servers for heterogeneous data sources
A query system (1600) is formed by a wizard (1605) operating to form a data server (1610) arranged to serve data from a data source (1615) to a client application (1630), each of the wizard, the client application, the data server and the data source being linked by a communications network (1650). The data source has native data types and data arranged in a data structure. The wizard operates to firstly identify the data source over the network. The wizard further provides an application program for traversing and examining at least one of the data structure and data of the identified data source. The application program is operable to generate a representative schema (1614) comprising mapping data for converting the native data types to predetermined data types of a common data model. The wizard further operates to create a server application (1612) adapted to use the representative schema to convert the data from the native data types to the predetermined data types and to serve the data to the client application according to the common data model over the network. The representative schema and the server application thereby form the data server generated by the wizard. Once formed, the data server may receive and respond to queries from the client application, which may have no knowledge of the native data types, but which are directed to the data source.
US07660804B2 Joint optimization of wrapper generation and template detection
A method and system for generating wrappers for hierarchically organized documents by jointly optimizing template detection and wrapper generation is provided. A wrapper generation system generates a wrapper for documents with similar templates by identifying a cluster of document trees and generating a wrapper tree for the cluster. A wrapper tree defines the wrapper for documents that match the template of the cluster. The wrapper generation system clusters document trees by generating a wrapper tree for the cluster based on an initial document tree. The wrapper generation system then repeatedly determines whether any other document tree matches or nearly matches the wrapper tree for the cluster and, if so, adds the document tree to the cluster and adjusts the wrapper tree as appropriate so that all the document trees, including the newly added one, match the wrapper tree.
US07660801B2 Method and system for generating a serializing portion of a record identifier
Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to software for automatically generating alphabetic or alphanumeric representations for assigning as serializing portions of record identifiers.
US07660800B2 Systems and methods for classifying and transferring information in a storage network
Systems and methods for data classification to facilitate and improve data management within an enterprise are described. The disclosed systems and methods evaluate and define data management operations based on data characteristics rather than data location, among other things. Also provided are methods for generating a data structure of metadata that describes system data and storage operations. This data structure may be consulted to determine changes in system data rather than scanning the data files themselves.
US07660798B1 System and method for providing document security, access control and automatic identification of recipients
A system and method attempts to access a portable electronic document using different methods depending on whether the user attempting access is in front of, or behind, a firewall.
US07660796B2 Information processing method and apparatus
There is provided an information processing method for setting the exclusive control right of a data item by a specific process in a system in which a plurality of clients connected via a network share data including a plurality of data items. In this method, when a desired data item is designated so as to set its exclusive control right, data items which belong to layers lower than the designated data and are related to the designated data item are retrieved on the basis of the hierarchical structure information of the plurality of data items. Then, the exclusive control right is set for the designated data item and retrieved data items.
US07660785B1 Techniques for managing interactions between applications and a data store
Methods, systems, and data stores are provided for managing interactions between applications and a data store. Threaded applications do not directly read from or write to the data store. An extract utility performs an initial query against the data store on behalf of multiple instances of the applications. The query results service the applications from an application queue. The applications produce application data from processing the query results. The application data is streamed to a load queue and streamed out of the load queue for purposes of creating a temporary table. The temporary table is then merged into an application table of the data store, once all instances of the applications finish processing.
US07660774B2 Nonlinear neural network fault detection system and method
A system and method for fault detection is provided. The fault detection system provides the ability to detect symptoms of fault in turbine engines and other mechanical systems that have nonlinear relationships. The fault detection system uses a neural network to perform a data representation and feature extraction where the extracted features are analogous to principal components derived in a principal component analysis. This neural network data representation analysis can then be used to determine the likelihood of a fault in the system.
US07660769B2 System and method for digital content player with secure processing vault
A system and method for digital content player with secure processing vault is presented. A system uses an attached processing unit and a local storage area as a hardware-based secure processing vault. The secure processing vault calculates a title key based upon stored device keys, and decrypts encrypted/encoded digital content using the calculated title key. The decryption process results in encoded digital content, which remains within the secure processing vault until the secure processing vault decodes the encoded digital content. The decoded digital content is then passed to a main processing unit or a graphics card for further processing. In one embodiment, a secure processing vault may process multiple threads in parallel. In another embodiment, multiple secure processing vaults may be used to process a single, highly computational thread.
US07660742B2 Method of and system for processing purchase orders
A method of and system for processing a purchase order. The method of processing a purchase order includes receiving data regarding the purchase order in a computerized system, wherein the purchase order has been rejected based on the application of at least one rule. The method also includes providing options to facilitate acceptance of the purchase order. The system for processing a purchase order includes means for receiving data regarding the purchase order, wherein the purchase order has been rejected based on the application of at least one rule. The system further includes means for providing options to facilitate acceptance of the purchase order.
US07660741B2 Sourcing under quantity pricing rules
A method for sourcing an item requirement includes receiving an item requirement that identifies an item and a quantity of the item that needs to be sourced from one or more suppliers. The method also includes determining one or more sourcing criteria that affect the sourcing of the item. The sourcing criteria include one or more quantity pricing rules that are associated with each of a number of suppliers and the quantity of the item available at each of the suppliers. Furthermore, the method includes determining one or more suppliers from which the item should be sourced and a quantity of the item to obtain from each such supplier based on the sourcing criteria. In addition, the method includes automatically generating one or more transaction documents that each identify the item and the requested quantity of the item and that include a request that a supplier provide the requested quantity of the item. These transaction documents are communicated to the associated suppliers.
US07660740B2 Method and system for listing items globally and regionally, and customized listing according to currency or shipping area
A method to facilitate network-based commerce includes determining a site that a user accesses, the site being one of multiple sites operated by a network-based commerce facility. A category list available for the site is retrieved, the category list identifying categories of offerings available via the site. The category list is communicated to the user. The site is a regional site, and the category list is a region-specific category list.
US07660737B1 Economic filtering system for delivery of permission based, targeted, incentivized advertising
A method to control advertising messages directed at a user is provided. Such control might include setting a filter to control advertisements directed at a user. Advertisements are sent to a user based on the filter settings. The user may accept the advertisements. If the user accepts the advertisements, the user is provided with a reward. In addition, a method using a quiz to determine if a user is human or an automated respondent is provided. The user is presented with a quiz. The user is advised of the acceptable manner for responding to the quiz. The user's response to the quiz is received. A determination based on the user's response as to whether the user is a human or an automated respondent is made.
US07660731B2 Method and apparatus for technology resource management
Apparatus and methods to manage demand, service level agreements, hardware and software assets, projects, labor, knowledge and provisioning resources in hosted applications. An asset manager coupled to host servers and a network, manages the host servers and software to determine the demand for new assets and allocate available assets to meet the demand; determine assets not in compliance with existing software licenses; determine and compare actual service level metrics with the target service level metrics; and determine availability of a patch or upgrade for selected software and instances of the selected software among the assets. The asset manager may be coupled to other managers, e.g., contract, product, work and/or accounting managers, to monitor service level metrics and/or costs.
US07660729B2 System and method for selecting and reserving airline seats
The present invention relates to a system and method for selecting and reserving airline seats. The system or method receives first data representing payment information over the network from a general purpose computer. The system or method also transmits second data to an application running on the general purpose computer, the second data including information descriptive of available individual seats on one or more airplanes, the second data processed by the application to generate a graphical user interface on the general purpose computer that comprises an interactive seating map representing individual seats on the one or more airplanes, the second data processed by the application to generate an additional display of information about selection of seats in response to a user interaction with the graphical user interface, the interaction being triggered when placing a mouse over a portion of the graphical user interface. In addition, the system or method receives from the general purpose computer third data representing one or more seats selected by one or more mouse clicks.
US07660726B2 System and method for requesting, receiving, tracking and verifying or receiving proof of insurance coverage and transferring risk to uninsured or underinsured parties
Disclosed is a system and method for an Indemnitee to verify insurance coverage of an Indemnitor, including the steps of at least two parties entering into a contractual relationship that obligates the Indemnitor to indemnify the Indemnitee by maintaining contractually required insurance and to provide proof of the insurance, entering the contractual insurance requirements and related pertinent information into a database, requesting on behalf of the Indemnitee proof of insurance from the Indemnitor, a service provider or the Indemnitee receiving the Indemnitor's insurance coverage information, comparing the Indemnitor's insurance coverage information with the contractual insurance requirements, determining if the Indemnitor is in contractual compliance, and issuing insurance to protect the interests of the Indemnitee in the event the Indemnitor is not in contractual compliance.
US07660719B1 Configurable information collection system, method and computer program product utilizing speech recognition
A system, method and computer program product are provided for collecting information utilizing speech recognition. After receiving a specification, a voice application is configured based on the specification. During use, the voice application is capable of collecting information utilizing speech recognition.
US07660709B2 Bioinformatics research and analysis system and methods associated therewith
A system and method for performing a research and analysis in the bioinformatics field which associates data from a variety of experimental platforms with preclinical and/or clinical samples and subjects. The system and method allows for the analysis of data stored therein received from a variety of experimental platforms, as well as association with preclinical and clinical sources. A fully integrated medical informatics/molecular bioinformatics database/analysis package is provided herein suitable for accelerated target discovery, diagnosis, and treatments for molecular-based diseases. An identified relationship is used with a computational distribution for scoring nodes in a network built from a set of experimentally-derived condition-specific genomic or proteomic profiles for the development of new treatments, diagnoses, biomarker identification, or target identification. The biomedical research tool provides for multi-directional data directionality that allows for detailed genotype to phenotype analysis for the evaluation of new drugs and treatments.
US07660706B2 Method and apparatus for allocating link bandwidth as function of QOS requirement
A method is provided for determining a bandwidth allocation needed to provide a specified QOS requirement that takes appropriate account of statistical variations for packet streams in a transmission link. In particular, a statistical model of the packet stream is formed using fractional sum difference statistical models and the model is evaluated in respect to synthetically generated traffic streams. The bandwidth allocation approach is specified in terms of the bandwidth, β, required for a traffic load, τ, subject to the requirements of a maximum queuing delay, δ, and a packet loss limitation parameter, ω. Accordingly, that bandwidth allocation approach is implemented as a statistical model for β as a function of τ, δ and ω.
US07660699B2 Knowledge-based statistical method and system to determine reliability compatibility for semiconductor integrated circuits
A method for determining whether a first group of a product, a component or a system in reliability life testing has longer lifetime than a second group. This method is non-parametric and free from a pre-assumption of statistical distributions and can be applied to all kinds of data and distributions. Errors from goodness-of-fit of distribution fitting and parameter estimations are thus eliminated. After pre-check on bimodal, early failures, and the failure mechanisms, the method employs numerical solutions with good accuracy by the nonparametric approach. The data under consideration can be censored, interval or bimodal, and not limited to simple cases of complete type. The method can be used to determine multiplicities of reliability tests for all product types and at all levels. Based on a comparability index derived from integrating the weighted difference between the reliability functions of the two groups under comparison. Several indices are proposed for effectiveness of reliability comparability.
US07660693B2 Activation energy measurement method
A method for computing activation energy of diffusion for a material in a liquid is provided. At least two identical samples of the material are submerged in the liquid at different temperatures. The time required for each sample to reach a goal weight percentage is measured. A reaction acceleration factor is computed for the two samples from the resulting times and temperatures. Activation energy of diffusion is computed from the reaction acceleration factor and the temperatures. Additional samples can be used to give an error estimate.
US07660689B2 Single and multiphase fluid measurements
A first property of a process fluid is measured using a volumetric flowrate measuring device. A second property of the process fluid is measured using a Coriolis flowmeter. A third property of the process fluid is determined based on the measured first property and the measured second property.
US07660685B2 Virtual probing
A method and apparatus for generating one or more transfer functions for converting waveforms. The method comprises the steps of determining a system description, representative of a circuit, comprising a plurality of system components, each system component comprising at least one component characteristic, the system description further comprising at least one measurement node and at least one output node, each of the at least one measurement nodes representative of a waveform digitizing location in the circuit. One or more transfer functions are determined for converting a waveform from one or more of the at least one measurement nodes to a waveform at one or more of the at least one output nodes. The generated transfer functions are then stored in a computer readable medium.
US07660679B2 Method for evaluating the difference between the situation at a given moment on a worksite and a reference state for the operating conditions for tires of civil engineering vehicles on the site
A method for evaluating the difference between the situation on a site at a given moment and a reference state in regards to the operating conditions of tires of heavy vehicles of the civil engineering type, wherein a user determines at least one zone on the site and determines n parameters which are characteristic of the operating conditions for tires in the zone. The user allocates to each parameter a variance dimension (xi) and enters this dimension in a processor capable of performing an automatic consolidation I of the dimensions of the n parameters. The processor performs a consolidation of the dimensions of the n parameters to give I, the variance dimension index for the zone.
US07660677B2 Method of designing physiologically active peptide and use thereof
The present invention provides a means of economically, quickly and efficiently designing a physiologically active peptide to a target protein. Specifically, the present invention provides a method of designing a physiologically active peptide characterized in that, to design a physiologically active peptide capable of binding to a target site comprising a consecutive or non-consecutive amino acid sequence in a target protein, a computerized processing is carried out for extracting a preferable amino acid sequence by calculating intermolecular energy etc.; an apparatus therefor; a program for executing the above-described processing by a computer; and a computer-readable recording medium containing the program.
US07660676B2 Nucleic acid base sequence determining method and inspecting system
When the nucleic-acid base sequence of A, C, G, and T (or U) is determined by interpreting fluorescent-light intensity waveform data acquired by measuring nucleic-acid fragments, it is desirable to determine, with a high-accuracy, the base sequence at a location at which the data interpretation is difficult. In order to accomplish this object, the data interpretation is performed by making reference to information acquired by performing the statistical processing to plural pieces of fluorescent-light intensity waveform data corresponding to already-known base sequences. This method allows the determination of the nucleic-acid base sequence at the above-described location.
US07660668B2 Method and device for controlling at least one deceleration device and/or an output-determining actuating element of a vehicle drive device
A device and a method for triggering at least one deceleration device and/or one output-determining actuator element of a vehicle propulsion system, in particular for automatic longitudinal vehicle regulation, a first surroundings sensing device being provided, which delivers longitudinal value-optimized measured values, a second surroundings sensing device being provided, which delivers object lateral dimension-optimized measuring values, and an analyzer device being provided, which receives the output signals of the first and second surroundings sensing devices and the measured values of the first and second surroundings sensing devices being used for object identification. The device and the method are furthermore suitable for initiating or performing vehicle deceleration for collision avoidance or for alleviating the severity of a collision.
US07660665B2 Autonomous mobile equipment and position-of-object and own position detecting system
Autonomous mobile equipment includes a position-of-object and own position detecting system and a moving unit, and autonomously moves. The position-of-object and own position detecting system includes a database in which pieces of information on the superficial shape and position of an object are recorded. The superficial shape of the object detected by a position measuring unit is collated with the superficial shape of the object recorded in the database. If the collated superficial shapes agree with each other, the pieces of information on the object recorded in the database are transmitted to a traveling planning unit. If the collated superficial shapes disagree with each other, the information on the object acquired by the position measuring unit is transmitted to the traveling planning unit.
US07660664B2 Information service system
An information service system includes a contents service provider for providing contents data of a content together with an application software for providing an informational service intended by the content, a service center for collecting the contents data and the application software provided by the contents service provider, and terminals of plural kinds coupled with the service center through communication. The service center includes an information service control means for providing the informational service suitable for the kind of the terminal by executing the application software collected from the contents service provider, and the terminal uses the informational service provided by the service center.
US07660660B2 Systems and methods for regulation of engine variables
A method for controlling an engine output with at least two actuators, including applying inputs to actuators which regulate a variable of an engine, evaluating the response of the system, determining the ability of the actuators to change the engine variable, determining the capability of the actuators to reject a disturbance, calculating an optimum actuator feedforward control function based upon the ability and capability determined and controlling the actuators using the calculated function and a feedforward control algorithm.
US07660651B2 Core area territory planning for optimizing driver familiarity and route flexibility
Route planning methods for use by a package delivery service provider are disclosed that satisfy a stochastic daily demand while taking advantage of drivers' route familiarity over time. A model for estimating the value of driver familiarity is disclosed along with both an empirical and a mathematical model for estimating the value of route consistency, along with a Core Area Route Design which involves the concepts of combinatorial optimization, meta-heuristic algorithms, tabu search heuristics, network formulation modeling, and multi-stage graph modeling. In one embodiment, a service territory is divided into unassigned cells associated with a grid segment involving prior driver delivery stops, and a driver from a pool of unassigned drivers is assigned to a route based on examining each driver's grid segment visiting frequency limit with respect to a minimum limit so as to optimize driver selection based on of each driver's familiarity with the route.
US07660647B2 Processing method for vending machine with substitutable magazines
A method for centralized mass processing of substitutable, good-holding magazines used in conjunction with computer-controlled vending machines. A memory-chip-mounting smart-card is used, not only to enter into the machines the magazine location and price of the various goods, but also to carry a sales transaction record of the replaced magazine, thus avoiding the need for magazine locking mechanisms and other security measures.
US07660642B1 Dynamic control system for manufacturing processes
Methods, apparatuses and systems that facilitate the design, production, control and/or measurement tasks associated with manufacturing and other processes. In one embodiment, the present invention provides an understanding of how the multiple characteristics of a given process output are related to each other and to process inputs. It also facilitates an understanding of the sometimes complex interrelationships between design targets, design tolerances, process inputs, process control variables, average process output and variation in the process output. In one implementation, the present invention enables or facilitates the implementation of static and dynamic control systems in connection with manufacturing or other process. For example, in one implementation, the present invention provides a dynamic control system for manufacturing processes that is responsive to the observed output of a process.
US07660633B2 Transformable speech processor module for a hearing prosthesis
A speech processor module is disclosed. The speech processor module is configured to be implemented in more than one mode of operation of a hearing prosthesis including as a component of a stand-alone speech processing unit, and as a component of a body-worn speech processing unit, wherein said body-worn speech processing unit comprises a case that protects the speech processor module from environmental conditions which can damage said speech processor module implemented in said stand-alone operating mode.
US07660632B2 Method and apparatus for hypoglossal nerve stimulation
A method of treating sleep disordered breathing in a patient includes the steps of monitoring the patient for a pre-inspiratory drive signal indicative of the breathing cycle by sensing electroneurogram activity of a hypoglossal nerve of the patient; and electrically stimulating the hypoglossal nerve of the patient following each detection of the pre-inspiratory drive signal. An implantable apparatus for stimulating a hypoglossal nerve of a patient for the treatment of sleep disordered breathing includes an electrode positioned at least partially around the hypoglossal nerve with a monitoring contact and a stimulation contact and a controller operatively coupled to the monitoring contact and the stimulation contact. The monitoring contact monitors the electroneurogram activity of the hypoglossal nerve for a pre-inspiratory drive signal indicative of the onset of inspiration and sends a signal to the controller which in turn causes the stimulating electrode to electrically stimulate the hypoglossal nerve.
US07660624B2 Method and x-ray system for detecting position changes of a medical implant
In a method and apparatus to detect position changes of an implant x-ray detectable markers are arranged in the environment of the implant, and 2D x-ray exposures are obtained at temporal intervals of a region containing the implant in which a distribution of the markers as well as of marked points of the implant are visible in each 2D x-ray exposure. A first of the 2D x-ray exposures is obtained at a first point in time from one projection direction, and a second of the 2D x-ray exposures is obtained at a second point in time from another projection direction. The distribution of the markers and marked points is determined in the first and second 2D x-ray exposure by an evaluation device, and from the distributions a degree of probability is calculated that the distribution of the first 2D x-ray exposure and the distribution of the second 2D x-ray exposure are projections of the same three-dimensional distribution of markers and marked points. An automated detection of position changes by implants with reduced x-ray exposure for the patient is facilitated.
US07660623B2 Six degree of freedom alignment display for medical procedures
A display and navigation system for use in guiding a medical device to a target in a patient includes a tracking sensor, a tracking device and display. The tracking sensor is associated with the medical device and is used to track the medical device. The tracking device tracks the medical device with the tracking sensor. The display includes indicia illustrating at least five degree of freedom information and indicia of the medical device in relation to the five degree of freedom information.
US07660614B2 Slide type portable terminal
A slide type portable terminal can include a main unit including separated first and second key sections and a first plate coupled to a surface of the main unit and a display unit with a display screen on a front surface and a second plate. The second plate can slide with respect to the first plate and preferably slides along the surface of the main unit to cause the first and second key sections of the main unit to be covered and exposed by the display unit. Further, first and second magnets can be provided on the first and second plates, respectively, so that the same poles of the magnets face each other to provide a repulsive force when they are positioned to face close to each other. According to embodiments of the present invention, there are various advantages in that the portable terminal can be utilized more conveniently and production costs and failure rates thereof can also be reduced.
US07660609B2 Persistent tactile event notification
A method and apparatus for providing tactile event notification for an electronic apparatus is disclosed. When an event is detected in the electronic apparatus, a portion of the electronic apparatus is displaced in response to the event. An event can be any type of occurrence or alert in the electronic apparatus for which the user needs to be notified.
US07660595B2 Method and apparatus for updating mobile Ip data connectivity on transitions between wireless networks
Methods and apparatus are presented to facilitate the transfer of a PPP session of a mobile communication device that is handed between multiple communication networks with different air interfaces.
US07660593B2 Method for combining media records in a cellular network terminal device and a cellular network terminal device
The invention relates to a method for combining separate media records saved in a cellular network terminal device by means of the numerical keys of the cellular network terminal device. The invention also relates to an application program implementing the method and a cellular network terminal device in which the application program is utilized.
US07660585B2 Inter-system handover
A method for performing an inter-system handover of a user terminal in a telecommunications network comprising a first telecommunications system operable according to a first protocol and comprising a first service subsystem and a first access subsystem and a second telecommunications system operable according to a second protocol and comprising a second service subsystem and a second access subsystem; the user terminal storing capability data indicative of the user terminal's capabilities for communication with the service subsystems and the access subsystems.
US07660575B2 Adapter for secure VoIP communications
Method and adapter apparatus for securing information exchanged between a calling party and a called party. A first signal is generated, which is representative of an analog probe signal. The first signal is released towards the called party. Responsive to receipt from the called party of a second signal responsive to the analog probe signal and indicative of an ability of the called party to participate in a secure information exchange, negotiations are performed with the called party to securely exchange subsequent information with the called party. In this way, the adapter apparatus can securely exchange information without prior knowledge of whether the called party is secure-capable or secure-incapable and without prior knowledge of whether the called party is a POTS phone or a packet-switched device.
US07660573B2 Infrastructure for wireless telecommunication networks
A wireless network including a plurality of base stations operating at a public spectrum frequency, each base station capable of generating an adjustable size coverage area. Each base station utilizing dedicating channels for each user to permit avoidance of one or more sources of interference. A server supplying data to the base stations, and managing billing and access to the wireless network.
US07660563B2 Apparatus and method for calibrating mixer offset
A circuit including a subcircuit having differential signals, and a feedback circuit coupled to the subcircuit. The feedback circuit is configured to measure an offset between the differential signals, to generate a calibration signal in response to the measurement, and to reduce the offset in response to the calibration signal.
US07660561B2 Method and system for implementing smart antennas and diversity techniques
Method and apparatus for transfer of signals from multiple antennas down to baseband over a common radio frequency (RF) chain. Antenna selection having greater flexibility and applicability to both uplink and downlink is obtained by giving priority to the antenna receiving a better/best quality signal. Measurements are taken by at least a channel estimator during each time slot to determine the weighting to be given to the antenna with the better/best quality signal. Techniques and apparatus are provided to take measurements over a range of intervals from time slots to single symbols, for example, to select the best signal. The techniques described herein may be used individually, and in some cases are combined to receive additional benefits in efficiency. For example, one or more of recent and/or current channel estimation, history, optimization may be employed, in addition to channel estimation, to determine signal quality.
US07660554B2 Heat fixing device
In an induction heat fixing device of the invention, a metal conductive layer of a heat roller is supported by a foamed rubber (sponge). A sheet paper is curled in a direction of separating from the heat roller by a nip shape between the heat roller and a press roller. The press roller is formed to be longer than the heat roller to such a degree that even if the heat roller laterally shifts, an edge of the press roller does not come in contact with the heat roller.
US07660552B2 Image forming apparatus and test pattern
An image forming apparatus includes a conveying unit that conveys a transferred medium in a first direction, an image forming unit, a controller that controls the image forming unit to form a test pattern including first and second line segments slanting toward directions opposite to each other, wherein the first line segment is offset, in an offset direction, from a second direction orthogonal to the first direction and the second line segment is offset, in a direction opposite to the offset direction, from the second direction, a detection unit that detects passage of at least respective parts of the first and second line segments; and a calculating unit that calculates a position where the image forming unit forms an image based on a time difference between times at which the detection unit detects the passage of the at least part of the first and second line segments.
US07660550B2 Process cartridge and image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes a cartridge including an electrophotographic photosensitive member, a developing roller, a spacer movable between spacing and contacting positions for spacing apart and contacting the roller and member, and a receiver receiving a force spacing the roller from the member. The apparatus includes a mounter detachably mounting the cartridge, an abuter retracting the spacer from the spaced position when the mounter mounts the cartridge with the spacer at the spaced position, and a function member movable between a first position spacing the roller from the member by abutting the receiver with the cartridge mounted to the mounter and a second position contacting the roller to the member. When the mounter mounts the cartridge with the spacer at the spaced position, the abuter abuts the spacer retracting it from the spaced position after insertion so that the function member taking the first position abuts the receiver.
US07660547B2 Charging device
A charging device includes a long electrode, a cleaning member, a timing device, a drive source, a load measuring device, and a control device. The drive source moves the cleaning member in the outward direction for a first time period after the outward passage time and then reverses the cleaning member in the homeward position. The load measuring device measures driving load imposed on the drive source while the cleaning member is being moved. The control device controls motion of the drive source to turn the cleaning member from the outward direction to the homeward direction at a predetermined objective point near the second end, based on sum of driving loads imposed on the drive source while the cleaning member is being moved from the first point to a second point located along the outward direction.
US07660545B2 Coupling part, photosensitive drum, process cartridge and electrophotographic image forming apparatus
A process cartridge detachably mountable to a main assembly of an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, wherein the main assembly includes a motor, a main assembly side gear for receiving driving force from the motor, a hole defined by twisted surfaces, the hole being substantially coaxial with the gear, and a main assembly side grounding contact provided in the hole, the process cartridge includes an electrophotographic photosensitive drum; process mechanisms actable on the photosensitive drum; and a projection engageable with the twisted surfaces, the projection being provided at a longitudinal end of the photosensitive drum, wherein when the main assembly side gear rotates with the hole and projection engaged with each other, rotational driving force is transmitted from the gear to the photosensitive drum through engagement between the hole and the projection; and a cartridge side grounding contact electrically connected with the electrophotographic photosensitive drum for electrically grounding the electrophotographic photosensitive drum when the process cartridge is mounted to the main assembly of the apparatus, the cartridge side grounding contact being provided on the projection so as to be electrically connectable with the main assembly side grounding contact
US07660542B2 Image forming method and image forming apparatus for forming an image on a surface of a transfer member
In an image forming method, an intermediate transfer body made of an endless flexible member is rotated, and an image is formed on a surface of a transfer member by undergoing a secondary transfer of a developer image onto a second transfer position from the intermediate transfer body to the transfer member, the developer image undergoing a primary transfer onto a first transfer position from an image carrier to a surface of the intermediate transfer body.
US07660537B2 Simultaneous electrical pre-compensation of self-phase modulation and chromatic dispersion
The present invention includes a fast algorithm to compute the pre-equalized waveform for simultaneous compensation of the self-phase modulation and chromatic dispersion experienced by a high-speed optical signal, e.g., at 10 Gb/s, and shows that it is used for an automatic self-adapting pre-equalization when the knowledge on transmission link details is inaccurate or incomplete.
US07660536B2 Optical modulating circuit and optical modulating method
An optical modulating circuit realizing a PPM is constituted by circuit parts having a frequency band equal to a data rate to provide a technique which increase the data rate. A first light source generates a first single wavelength signal serving as a continuous light having a first wavelength λ1 as a wavelength of a carrier wave. A second light source generates a second single wavelength signal serving as a continuous light having a second wavelength λ2 different from λ1 as a wavelength of a carrier wave. For the first single wavelength signal and the second single wavelength signal, according to a transmission electric signal having information 0 or 1, an optical switch outputs a first single wavelength signal as an input optical signal when the information is 0. On the other hand, when the information is 1, the optical switch outputs the second single wavelength signal as an input optical signal. An optical modulator generates an optical pulse signal obtained by arranging optical pulses having λ1 or λ2 as a wavelength of a carrier wave at predetermined time intervals from the input optical signal. A delaying unit delays the optical pulse having the wavelength λ1 and the optical pulse having the wavelength λ2 by different delay time Δt to obtain a PPM signal.
US07660534B2 Optical communication device and system using optical power and signals
An optical telephone and communication system with interferometers at the transmitter and receiver can use optical time-delay difference and differential frequency shift modulation and multiplexing techniques. The power to the system is provided from either a remote optical source through the optical network or a local optical source. The optical network provides one or two optical connections to the sets. Part of the optical signal from the network is converted to electrical energy stored in a rechargeable battery. The optical sources used have a known coherence function, wavelength and coherence length Lc. The transmitter converts the information to phase variation in one arm of the transmitter interferometer and the receiver recovers this signal by using a matched interferometer. The path imbalance between the two arms of either interferometer is greater than Lc. Each set is assigned a particular time delay difference and/or differential frequency shift for addressing.
US07660531B2 Remote access unit and radio-over-fiber network using same
A remote access unit (RAU) apparatus, coupled to a central station (CS) of an RoF network through at least one optical fiber, and which RAU apparatus includes at least one antenna, includes: first and second antenna ports coupled to the at least one antenna; first and second optical fiber ports coupled to the at least one optical fiber; a first coupler for decoupling a first downstream signal of a first duplexing method and a second downstream signal of a second duplexing method, which are input through the first optical fiber port; a circulator for outputting the first downstream signal input from the first coupler to the first antenna port and outputting a first upstream signal of the first duplexing method input from the first antenna port to the second optical fiber port; and a second coupler for outputting the second downstream signal input from the first coupler to the second antenna port and outputting a second upstream signal of the second duplexing method input from the second antenna port to the second optical fiber port.
US07660526B2 Through channel loss prevention at a WDM node
At a WDM add/drop node of an optical fiber, an add/drop multiplexer system with opto-electric components in the through channel path has an optical switch connected in parallel with an add/drop multiplexer. Upon a power loss to the add/drop multiplexer, the optical switch bypasses the add/drop multiplexer so that WDM channel signals pass through the WDM add/drop node without interference from the unpowered add/drop multiplexer. Loss of through channels at the node is prevented. Upon a return of power, the optical switch reroutes the WDM signals on the optical fiber to the add/drop multiplexer but after the add/drop multiplexer is fully operational.
US07660524B2 Temperature compensation for transmission between nodes coupled by a unidirectional fiber ring
Transmissions over a unidirectional optical fiber coupling multiple nodes are compensated for temperature-induced effects. A round-trip delay time is determined for a signal sent from a first node to travel around the unidirectional optical fiber loop and be received back at the first node. That measured round-trip delay time is then used to account for temperature-induced effects on signal transmissions over the unidirectional optical fiber loop. This temperature compensation is particularly beneficial in applications that require a high level of timing accuracy.
US07660521B2 Image pickup terminal
An image pickup terminal includes an image pickup section, a data storage section which stores shutter sound setup data that sets a shutter sound generating when the image pickup section performs an imaging, a shutter sound generating section which generates a shutter sound based on the shutter sound setup data stored in the data storage section, a shutter sound appropriateness checking section which determines whether a shutter sound based on the shutter sound setup data stored in the data storage section is appropriate or not, and a control section which inhibits data setting of a shutter sound determined as being inappropriate by the shutter sound appropriateness checking section.
US07660515B2 Broadcast program recording apparatus using electronic program guide
A broadcast program recording apparatus is provided in which ease of operation is improved for selecting a broadcast program to be entered by making it possible to enter a broadcast program to be recorded, by using EPG data, even when a broadcast program which is being currently broadcast is being recorded. The broadcast program recording apparatus includes a tuner section for receiving a broadcast program containing broadcast program information, an EPG decoder for decoding the broadcast program information received by the tuner section, a controller having recording management information which is created by extracting a broadcast program to be recorded from the decoded EPG data, and a recording section for recording the broadcast program on the basis of the recording management information. The controller compares the current time with a broadcast program start time contained in the EPG data, and enters a new broadcast program into the recording management information when the current broadcast program is to be changed or immediately after it is changed.
US07660509B2 Backlight asymmetric light input wedge
A backlight is disclosed and includes a visible light transmissive body primarily propagating light by TIR with a light input surface and a light output surface and a light guide portion and a light input portion. The light guide portion has a light reflection surface and a light emission surface. The light input portion has opposing side surfaces that are not parallel. One of the opposing surfaces is co-planar with either the light emission surface or the light reflection surface. A light source is disposed adjacent to the light input surface. The light source emits light into the light input portion. A reflective layer is disposed adjacent to or on the opposing side surfaces.
US07660507B2 Latch and handle arrangement for a telecommunications panel
A latch and handle arrangement for a panel that provides a number of functions. The arrangement including a lever arm that functions as both a handle and a latch release in some panel and frame embodiments. The lever arm also functioning as a fastener cover in other panel and frame embodiments.
US07660504B2 Connectorized nano-engineered optical fibers and methods of forming same
Connectorized nano-engineered optical fibers and method for forming them are disclosed. The methods include heating a mid-span bare fiber portion of the nano-engineered fiber to substantially collapse the airlines therein so as to form a substantially airline-free portion. The fiber is then inserted into a ferrule channel so that the fiber end protrudes beyond the ferrule end face, but with the substantially airline-free portion positioned at the ferrule end face. The fiber is then cleaved at or near the ferrule end face in the substantially airline-free portion, and the new fiber end face polished to create a solid fiber end face that coincides with the ferrule end face. The methods result in relatively small changes to the mode field diameter (MFD) and/or to the outer cladding diameter.
US07660496B2 Structural joint strain monitoring apparatus and system
Structural joint strain monitoring apparatus 92 comprises jacket means 52 in the form of first and second jacket elements 62, each having a primary jacket part 62a and substantially perpendicular secondary jacket part 62b which together define a compartment for receiving a joint, between two pipes 54, 56, to be monitored. The jacket means 52 additionally comprises two primary web elements 76, 78 provided between the primary and secondary jacket parts 62a, 62b. Three fiber Bragg grating (FBG) strain sensors 96, 98, 100 and an FBG temperature sensor 102 are provided within an optical fiber 104, bonded to the primary web elements 76, 78 and each end of the second jacket element 62 respectively, for measuring strain or temperature at their respective locations. The FBG sensors 96, 98, 100, 102 are optically coupled, via optical fiber 104, to optical fiber sensor interrogation apparatus 94, operable to interrogate each FBG sensor.
US07660471B2 Method for correcting interpolated pixel values
The invention is related to video compression systems, and in particular to compression/decompression in digital video systems. The present invention discloses a method for compensating the rounding and truncation error when calculating ½ and ¼ position pixels for motion vector prediction. According to the invention, the rounding/truncation offset is attenuated by properly shifting up or down the result of the calculation of the ½ position pixel values. A method alternating occurrences of converting up and converting down interpolated pixel values to nearest integers in the cases where the pixel values are decimals with fractions of 0.5. In a preferred embodiment, each motion vector is assigned either a first or a second notation, so that converting up or down in a predicted block depends on the assignment of the motion vector corresponding to the prediction block. The present invention is particularly useful in the coding standard H.264/AVC.
US07660469B2 Image decoding apparatus and image decoding method
An image decoding apparatus includes an analyzing section and an image decoding section. The analyzing section determines a process quantity of a coded image data to each of a plurality of image decoding processes within a unit process time based on a parameter of the coded image data, prior to the plurality of image decoding processes. The image decoding section carries out each of the plurality of image decoding processes to the coded image data for the determined process quantity such that a decoded image data is generated from the coded image data.
US07660464B1 User interface for high dynamic range merge image selection
Methods and apparatus, including systems and computer program products, for creating high dynamic range images. One method includes actions of establishing a current set of digital image; displaying a high dynamic range image and information identifying the current set of images, the high dynamic range image being computed from the current set of images; and repeatedly, as long as the user provides user input changing the current set of images, receiving user input changing the current set of images and in response to each user input displaying a high dynamic range image and information identifying the current set of images, where the high dynamic range image is computed from the current set of images.
US07660458B1 Three-dimensional model construction using unstructured pattern
Systems and methods using an unstructured pattern for three-dimensional model construction, such as may be used for processing images of documents are disclosed. The method generally includes projecting an unstructured infrared pattern onto a target object, capturing a pair of stereoscopic images of the pattern projected onto the target object, such as with infrared cameras, performing signal processing on the pair of stereoscopic images to cross-correlate portions of the stereoscopic images in order to identify corresponding portions in the stereoscopic images, and constructing a three-dimensional model of the target object. The three-dimensional model can be utilized to rectify, e.g., de-warp, an image of the target object, e.g., a page or both facing pages of a bound document.
US07660446B2 Digital-signal processing apparatus, digital-signal processing method, program, and authentication apparatus
A digital-signal processing apparatus in which the efficiency of processing data can be prevented uniformly. The apparatus includes: an extracting unit that extracts a part of real data input; a selecting unit that selects a data size from similar data sizes falling in a range, in accordance with the size of the extracted data, which is a reference value, and with data-decomposing conditions described in an algorithm that realizes fast Fourier transform; and an operation unit that decomposes the data extracted and having the selected size into data items, in accordance with the data-decomposing conditions, and that performs Fourier transform on each data item, thereby effecting convolution on the data item.
US07660442B2 Method and system for capturing fingerprints, palm prints and hand geometry
A system and method for capturing biometric data from a hand includes a low resolution camera for recognizing the existence of a hand and determining when the hand is in an optimal position and orientation to capture the biometric data. A plurality of high resolution cameras photographs respective sections of the palm and fingers while several lights illuminate the sections from different directions in rapid sequence. A processor then tiles together the respective images, matches the friction ridges between adjacent images, adjusts the images to account for curvature, and selects individual pixels from the several images to obtain maximum contrast. Conversions of the resulting images into standard formats, such as grayscale, black and white, or simulated rolled ink fingerprint equivalents are also included.
US07660437B2 Neural network systems for vehicles
Method for obtaining information about an occupying item in a space in a vehicle in accordance with the invention includes obtaining images of an area above a seat in the vehicle in which the occupying item is situated and classifying the occupying item by inputting signals derived from the images into a trained neural network form which is trained to output an indication of the class of occupying item from one of a predetermined number of possible classes. The method is applicable for various vehicles including automobiles, trucks, buses, airplanes and boats. The images may be pre-processed to remove background portions of the images and then converted into signals for input into the neural network form.
US07660425B1 Acoustic echo cancellation
A multiple channel steered spatialized signal is generated from a signal input modified according to respective spatialization gain functions to generate a plurality of audio channels. An echo cancellation signal is applied to a return path using a combined spatialization and echo path estimate. The estimate is derived from the gain functions applied to the respective channels. When the gain functions applied in the respective channels are changed, for instance to represent a different apparent position of the sound source, a new estimate of the echo paths is generated, based on a previous estimate of the echo path and on the new gain functions.
US07660424B2 Audio channel spatial translation
Using an M:N variable matrix, M audio input signals, each associated with a direction, are translated to N audio output signals, each associated with a direction, wherein N is larger than M, M is two or more and N is a positive integer equal to three or more. The variable matrix is controlled in response to measures of: (1) the relative levels of the input signals, and (2) the cross-correlation of the input signals so that a soundfield generated by the output signals has a compact sound image in the nominal ongoing primary direction of the input signals when the input signals are highly correlated, the image spreading from compact to broad as the correlation decreases and progressively splitting into multiple compact sound images, each in a direction associated with an input signal, as the correlation continues to decrease to highly uncorrelated.
US07660421B2 Method and system for secure storage, transmission and control of cryptographic keys
A system and method are described supporting secure implementations of 3DES and other strong cryptographic algorithms. A secure key block having control, key, and hash fields safely stores or transmits keys in insecure or hostile environments. The control field provides attribute information such as the manner of using a key, the algorithm to be implemented, the mode of use, and the exportability of the key. A hash algorithm is applied across the key and control for generating a hash field that cryptographically ties the control and key fields together. Improved security is provided because tampering with any portion of the key block results in an invalid key block. The work factor associated with any manner of attack is sufficient to maintain a high level of security consistent with the large keys and strong cryptographic algorithms supported.
US07660419B1 System and method for security association between communication devices within a wireless personal and local area network
The present application describes a method and system for discovering and authenticating communication devices within a wireless network. According to an embodiment, communication devices exchange public keys using multiple messages each including at least a portion of the public key of the sending device. The devices authenticate the receipt of the public key and establish a shared master key. The shared master key is used to further derive a session key for securing the application data between the communicating devices for a current session.
US07660409B1 Multi-dwelling unit module for passive optical networks
A multi-dwelling unit (MDU) module is configured for providing telephony communicating services and non-telephony services. The MDU module includes a motherboard and a plurality of service units connected to the motherboard. Each one of said service units and the motherboard are jointly configured for providing non-telephony service and telephony service to a plurality of service subscribers. The motherboard is configured for providing overload power management to limit power consumption associated with said telephony services during an overload condition and for providing lifeline power management to limit power consumption associated with said non-telephony services during a power outage condition. The MDU module optionally includes lightning primary surge protection blocks configured for being connected to the service units. The MDU module includes a passive heat dissipation assembly that is configured for absorbing heat generated by the motherboard and the service units and for passively dissipating the heat.
US07660399B2 Voice processing system
A voice processing complex has a plurality of host machines, each host machine supporting one or more voice applications, at least one host in the complex including telephony hardware for providing access to a plurality of telephone lines. Such a host provides telephony functions to the complex. This is achieved by maintaining a mapping of voice applications to telephone lines, and creating a call object in response to an incoming call on one of the lines. It is then determined which voice application to associate with the incoming call on the basis of this mapping, and an identifier to the call object is then passed to the determined voice application. Thereafter the call object is responsive to requests from this voice application for providing telephony functions for the call. This includes receiving a media object from the voice processing application which represents desired output over a telephone line. This media object is then processed into a plurality of output components in accordance with one or more presentation criteria, and these components are then output over the telephone line.
US07660398B2 Captioned telephone service
Captioned telephone are devices intended to provide text captions to persons needing assistance with telephone communications. Captioned telephones provide text by using the services of a relay interposed between the assisted user and the hearing user, the relay providing the captioning for the assisted user. While captioned telephone service can be delivered over a single telephone line, if the assisted user has two telephone lines available for the captioning service, additional features and advantages are possible in the delivery of captioned telephone service to the user.
US07660393B2 Gas tight radiation window, and a method for its manufacturing
A gas tight radiation window membrane comprises a layered diffusion barrier with a reactive metal layer (201) covered on both sides by cover layers (202, 203). An originally continuous carrier layer (101) can be made a mesh that has openings coincident with openings of a reinforcement grid (105), while the gas tight diffusion barrier (107, 507) spans as a continuous film over said openings in said mesh.
US07660387B2 Radiation imaging system
The present invention discloses an radiation imaging system, comprising: an accelerator for generating rays which penetrate through the objects to be inspected and an synchronous signal; a detector with a plurality of detecting modules, adapted for detecting rays; a signal processor for generating a selection signal according to the synchronous signal, so as to select a detecting module for detecting the rays; a data converter for converting the signal detected by said detecting module into digital data, and then buffering the digital data in said signal processor; and a communication controller connected to an image processor, adapted for transmitting the digital data buffered in said signal processor to said image processor. The system according to the present invention allows high-speed and stable data acquisition and data conversion and accurate and reliable data transmission, when the data amount is significant.
US07660386B2 Vehicle-carried radiation inspection system and lifting device used therein
A vehicle-carried radiation inspection system has a simple structure with advantages of convenient operation, little scanning blind area and reliable safety performance. The system includes a loading vehicle, a lifting device mounted to the loading vehicle and a radiation scanning inspection device fixedly mounted to the lifting device so as to ascend/descend together with the lifting device. The lifting device is configured to enable the lifting device and the radiation scanning inspection device as a whole to be apart from the ground by a predetermined safety distance when the loading vehicle is moving, and to enable the minimum distance therebetween during inspection to be less than the predetermined safety distance. The radiation scanning inspection device may be switched between higher and lower positions as required with the ascending/descending of its combination with the lifting device.
US07660378B2 Phase estimation method in a digital and phase locked loop communication system
A method for estimating the phase in a digital communication system, comprising the steps of: receiving and storing a block of observations Yk; executing at least one phase locked loop (PLL) on a predetermined sequence of observations extracted from said block. Each PLL provides an intermediate value, combining both intermediate values makes it possible to provide a sharpened phase estimate. The method allows realization of an improved phase estimator based on the simplicity of phase locked loops.
US07660374B2 Method and apparatus for excision of narrowband interference signals in navigation or communication bands
A narrowband interference excision and nulling system for Global Positioning Satellite (GPS), spread spectrum navigation and communication bands, and an antijam electronic apparatus that operates using RF conversion and digital signal processing. A band containing the signal of interest as well as interference is converted to an intermediate frequency (IF) for RF filtering using single conversion, and this signal is digitized using an analog-to-digital converter (ADC). A representation of the signal is produced at a lower frequency using digitization and filtering, and a continuous data representation of the band is processed using multiple-point samples to define the input to a complex FFT. The FFT produces contiguous frequency bins that are examined to identify narrowband and broadband interference. An excision algorithm determines the optimum pattern of bins to be removed, after which the residual bins are reconstructed using an IFFT, followed by digital-to-analog conversion and RF conversion to the output band. Narrowband interference excision can be integrated with two-port broadband suppression in cascade using a masked variable resolution FFT spectral energy detection receiver.
US07660359B2 Method for detecting UWB pulse sequences and detection means suitable for this purpose
A telecommunication system including a receiver to receive a signal including a sequence of Np pulses, each pulse included in a separate time window, and each pulse enclosed within a time chip whose position within the corresponding time window is defined by a chip number that is included in a known signature; and a detector configured to detect Np pulses in each of the separate time windows by using Np detection windows, a location of the detection windows defined by the known signature, the detection windows being shorter than the separate time windows, and longer than the time chip duration of the time chips, to search an expected pulse sequence.
US07660357B2 PES data processing
A system and method for detecting PES headers is presented herein. PES headers are detected by a combination of hardware and firmware. Hardware logic is used to detect the PES start codes while multithreaded firmware us used to process the packet.
US07660350B2 High-speed multi-mode receiver
A data receiver is provided which is operable to receive a signal controllably pre-distorted and transmitted by a transmitter, to generate information for adjusting the pre-distortion applied to the signal transmitted by the transmitter, and to transmit the information to the transmitter. The receiver is further operable to perform adaptive equalization to receive the signal transmitted by the transmitter.
US07660335B2 Liquid cooled laser bar arrays incorporating diamond/copper expansion matched materials
A laser diode array having a plurality of diode bars bonded by a hard solder to expansion matched spacers and mounted on a gas or liquid cooled heatsink. The spacers are formed of a material such as copper/diamond composite material having a thermal expansion that closely matches that of the laser bars.
US07660333B2 Method and apparatus for detecting and compensating for jitter in a communications network
Jitter in a clock signal can cause communications faults in communications networks, such as in networks in which downstream nodes use recovered clock signals as timing for upstream communications. An embodiment of the present invention detects and compensates for jitter in a network by recovering a reference clock associated with communications signals between nodes, such as an Optical Line Terminal (OLT) and Optical Network Terminal (ONT) in a Passive Optical Network (PON). A local clock is synchronized with the reference clock. Jitter induced faults may be detected and compensated for by increasing the synchronization rate, then decreasing the synchronization rate until jitter induced faults begin to occur. A loss or change in a rate of communications errors occurring as a function of the synchronization rate may be monitored and reported to a system operator. Compensating for jitter by adjusting the synchronization rate provides for robust communications between network nodes.
US07660325B2 Communication control apparatus for adjusting a transmission timing with a timing variation, and method therefor
A communication control apparatus is included in each of nodes constituting a telecommunications system and includes a communication timing signal transmitter/receiver for receiving a communication timing signal representative of a transmission timing of a data signal from at least one neighboring node neighboring the own node, and transmitting the communication timing signal of the own node. In the apparatus, a communication timing determining circuit determines a transmission timing of the communication timing signal of the own node in accordance with basic rate information, which defines a transmission timing of the communication timing signal of the own node, and the communication timing signal received from the neighboring node. A basic rate information control circuit included in the apparatus controls the basic rate information used by the communication timing determining circuit.
US07660295B2 Telephony and data network services at a telephone
A packetised data network includes IP telephones (ITs) and a network intelligence (NI). All of the keys of each IT are “soft” keys (i.e., they have no fixed function). The NI associates a configuration data structure with the IT which correlates the keys with functions, and, based on this, may control the display of the IT to indicate the current function of certain of the soft keys. Some of the functions are requests for data services at the telephone (e.g., video or programmed audio over the internet). When a user requests such a service with a key press, the NI sets up the service between the data source and the telephone. This may require associating a new configuration data structure with the keys of the IT. The IT user may activate multiple data services through the NI.
US07660292B2 System and method for isolating network clients
A network device includes at least one first network port, at least one second network port, a MUX unit and a switching unit. The MUX unit is connected to the at least one first network port. The MUX unit includes a trunk circuit and an output. The trunk circuit is configured to aggregate data packets received at the at least one first port into a trunk group and to output trunked data packets to the output. The switching unit is connected to the output of the MUX unit and to the at least one second network port. The switching unit is configured to switch the trunked data packets to the at least one second network port.
US07660291B2 Method for processing packets of a VLAN in a network switch
A method for processing packets of a VLAN in a network switch is provided. The VLAN comprises a plurality of physical LANs and are divided into a plurality of subnets. The method comprises the steps of: receiving a packet through an ingress port of the network switch, wherein the packet is tagged with a VID of the VLAN; finding a VLAN member according to the VID, wherein the VLAN member represents all ports of the network switch dedicated to serving packets of the VLAN; finding a forwarding scope according to the ingress port, wherein the ingress port is one of the ports dedicated to serving packets of a first subnet of the VLAN and the forwarding scope represents all ports of the network switch dedicated to serving packets of the first subnet; and determining an egress port of the packet according to both the VLAN member and the forwarding scope.
US07660287B2 Method, communication device and system for address resolution mapping in a wireless multihop ad hoc network
A method is presented for address resolution mapping in a wireless multihop communication network wherein the network is built up by client devices and/or infrastructure devices, network traffic is based on using ARP forwarding and rebroadcasting to locate devices in such a network architecture. The invention also includes devices for such a network and the complete communication system is described.
US07660285B2 Traffic-aware routing in wireless networks
The routing of traffic in wireless networks is performed in accordance with a routing metric. The routing metric can reflect the effects of future self-traffic of a forthcoming communication flow. In a described implementation, a routing decision is made for a forthcoming communication flow that is to propagate over multiple nodes of a multi-hop wireless network. The routing decision is based on at least one predicted effect on the wireless network from self-traffic of the forthcoming communication flow.
US07660282B2 Congestion control in a wireless data network
Techniques for congestion control are disclosed. In one embodiment, a base station allocates a shared resource using a combination of zero or more individual grants and zero or more common grants, and generates a busy signal in response to loading conditions that exceed a pre-determined level. In another embodiment, a subset of transmitting mobile stations reduce their transmission rate in response to a busy signal. The subset may include autonomous transmission, commonly granted transmission, individually granted transmission, or any combination thereof. In various embodiments, rate adjustment may be probabilistic or deterministic. In one embodiment, a rate table is deployed, and a mobile station decreases or increases the transmission rate from one rate in the table to a lower or higher rate in the table, respectively, in response to the busy signal. Various other aspects are also presented. These aspects have the benefit of providing efficient congestion control, avoiding excessive interference and increasing capacity.
US07660281B2 Method and apparatus for providing enhanced messages on common control channel in wireless communication system
A method and apparatus for providing new configurations for transmitting control information between a mobile terminal and a network using a common control channel (CCCH) logical channel/transport channel. The new configurations enable messages to be sent that are larger than currently allowed and the availability of the new configurations is indicated such that mobile terminals that do not support the new configurations are not impacted.
US07660274B2 Method for allocating transmission period in a wireless communication system
A method is provided for efficiently allocating a transmission period in a WLAN system. An access point (AP) transmits a PSMP message providing a downlink period and an uplink period provided to each station (STA), and at least one sub PSMP frame indicating a period of at least one of a downlink and an uplink for an STA requiring additional resource allocation. After exchanging data with the AP in the downlink and uplink periods provided by the PSMP frame, if there is a need for additional resource allocation, the STA receives the at least one sub PSMP frame and exchanges data with the AP in the period provided by the each sub PSMP frame.
US07660273B2 WLAN data reception method and WLAN device
A method and device of receiving WLAN data. The device comprises a transceiver module and a controller module. The transceiver module transmits first data and receives second data. The controller module is coupled to the transceiver module, and disables the transceiver module for a first period based on interframe space (IFS), upon completion of data transmission in the transceiver module.
US07660271B2 Spanning tree BPDU processing method and system facilitating integration of different native VLAN configurations
Methods, apparatuses and systems directed to enhancing the interoperability of network devices with static native virtual LAN (VLAN) configurations with other network devices where the native VLAN is a configurable parameter. In some implementations, the network devices having configurable native VLANs conditionally add VLAN tags to common Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) Bridge Protocol Data Units (BPDUs) transmitted to network devices where the native VLAN is static and strip any VLAN tags from the common STP BPDUs that are received.
US07660267B2 Homing of user nodes to network nodes in a communication system
User nodes are homed to network nodes in an IMS network or other communication system by determining a function hierarchy for functions provided by the network nodes. Starting with a function at an initial level of the function hierarchy, a predetermined criterion such as throughput-weighted distance is applied to assign a given user node to a particular network node providing that function. The homing process then proceeds through one or more additional levels of the function hierarchy to assign the given user node to at least one additional network node providing at least one other function identified in the additional level(s) of the function hierarchy. These operations are repeated for one or more additional user nodes until each of the user nodes is homed to one or more of the network nodes providing all of its required functions.
US07660259B1 Methods and systems for hybrid hardware- and software-base media access control (MAC) address learning
Methods and systems for hybrid layer 2 address learning are disclosed. In one method, a packet with a layer 2 source address is received. Next, it is determined whether to implement hardware-based learning or software-based learning based on a classification of the received packet. In response to determining that software-based learning is required, the source address and corresponding forwarding information in the packet are learned using software. In response to determining that hardware-based learning is required, the source address and corresponding forwarding information are learned using hardware.
US07660258B2 Method for automatically configuring network addresses in mobile multi-hop network
The present invention relates to a method for automatically configuring network addresses of mobile nodes participating in a mobile multi-hop network. The method of the present invention includes a first step of, if a first mobile node belonging to a first network moves into and participates in a second network, detecting that the first mobile node has moved; a second step of securing a route from the first mobile node to a gateway of the second network and requesting network configuration information; and a third step of receiving an available network address allocated by the gateway and changing the network configuration information of the first mobile node.
US07660255B2 System and method for routing IP datagrams
A datagram with a destination network address is received at a router. The router identifies a next hop router en route to or associated with the destination network address. The router determines whether or not transmission of the datagram on a link to the next hop router would result in a bandwidth usage exceeding a bandwidth threshold associated with the next hop router. If not, the router updates the bandwidth usage associated with the next hop router to account for the datagram, and transmits the datagram to the next hop router. If so, the router selects among other possible next hop routers en route to or associated with the destination address, another next hop router for which transmission of the datagram on a link to the other next hop router would not result in a bandwidth usage exceeding a bandwidth threshold associated with the other next hop router. Then, the router updates the bandwidth usage associated with the other next hop router to account for the datagram, and transmits the datagram to the other next hop router. If, among the other possible next hop routers, there is no other next hop router for which the transmission of the datagram on the respective link would result in the bandwidth usage being less than the respective bandwidth threshold, then the router chooses among the other possible next hop routers, another next hop router. Then, the router updates the bandwidth threshold associated with the other, chosen next hop router with a larger, predefined bandwidth threshold.
US07660252B1 System and method for regulating data traffic in a network device
A method and a system for controlling a packet passing through a network device are provided. The method includes timestamping the packet with an arrival time when it arrives at the network device, and determining the time the packet spends in the network device. The time spent is calculated by comparing the arrival time stamp and the exit time stamp. Subsequently, the packet is labeled, based on a function of the determined time spent in the network device. The packet can be labeled, to be dropped, suppressed or temporarily stopped. The system for controlling the packet passing through the network device comprises the means for performing the above mentioned steps.
US07660249B2 Packet shaping device, router, band control device and control method
A packet shaping device for the purpose of shaping a packet in which burst has grown in a router to an original packet without the burst growth is disclosed. The packet shaping device monitors an arrival time TA of each packet on which a pass time TP is recorded when the packet passes a prescribed pass point and calculates a delay time TD which is a time difference between the pass time TP and the arrival time TA. Then, the packet shaping device obtains a maximum delay time TDmax among the delay times, and delays and sends all the arrived packets in such that the delay time of all the arrived packets is equivalent to the maximum delay time.
US07660236B2 System and method of multi-nodal APS control protocol signaling
A system and method for providing APS (automatic protection switching) redundant pair control protocol signaling for multi-nodal APS (MN-APS) is provided. Periodic liveliness messages are exchanged between each node of a redundant pair. Each liveliness message contains an IHY (I heard you) message which indicates whether or not the sender of the liveliness message received within a duration of a hold time a previously transmitted liveliness message from the recipient. When more than one MN-APS group is configured between two redundant nodes, liveliness messages are bundled together to reduce processing loads.
US07660225B2 Objective lens, optical pickup apparatus and optical information recording and/or reproducing apparatus
An objective lens according to the present invention is an objective lens used for an optical pickup apparatus, and the objective lens includes a superimposed structure on a surface of a lens with a power in which a first optical path difference providing structure changing spherical aberration in under-corrected direction when a wavelength of an incident light flux becomes longer, and a second optical path difference providing structure changing spherical aberration in over-corrected direction when a wavelength of an incident light flux becomes longer are superimposed.
US07660222B2 Optical disk apparatus and information recording/reproduction method
An optical disk apparatus including: a light source; an objective lens for converging light emitted from the light source toward an optical disk; a first photodetection device for detecting reflected light from the optical disk and outputting a first signal; a signal processing section for receiving the first signal and generating a signal containing information recorded on the optical disk; a second photodetection device for detecting a portion of the light emitted from the light source and outputting a second signal; a light source driving section for receiving the second signal, and based on the second signal, driving the light source so that output power of the light source equals a target value; and an amplitude fluctuation detection section for detecting an amplitude fluctuation amount of the second signal, and if the amplitude fluctuation amount exceeds a predetermined value, changing driving characteristics of the light source driving section.
US07660219B2 Write adjustment method
A write adjustment method adjusts recording power, recording time, and recording position of a recorder. The recorder includes a light detecting chip to receive a reflected light signal and generate a recording detection signal to a high pass filter. The high pass filter receives the recording detection signal and outputs a filtering signal. The write adjustment method includes writing first short period data to a disk, acquiring a reference voltage of the high pass filter according to a maximum value and a minimum value of the filtering signal, writing first mixing period data to the disk according to a plurality of predetermined recording times, acquiring a first maximum value and a first minimum value according to the filtering signal and adjusting and determining a first recording power of the recorder when a target value is achieved according to the first maximum value, the first minimum value and the reference voltage of the high pass filter.
US07660209B2 Optical disk drive
An optical disk drive is designed to read and/or write data from/on a spiral string of tracks where land and groove tracks are alternated. The drive includes: a light source for radiating a light beam; a lens for converging the light beam; a mechanism for moving the lens; a photodetector for generating an electrical signal based on at least a part of the light beam reflected from the optical disk; and a control section for controlling the light source and the mechanism responsive to the electrical signal. While performing a seek operation by having the lens moved by the mechanism such that a target track, from/on which the data should start being read or written, is irradiated with the light beam, the control section tries to get a PLL locked by irradiating another track, which precedes the target track by at least one, with the light beam.
US07660200B2 Method for coherence-filtering of acoustic array signal
A method waveform processing technique utilizing signal coherence of the array data for processing signals having poor signal-to-noise ratio. Raw waveform data is first transformed into f-k (frequency-wavenumber) domain. A coherence function is then calculated and convolved with the data in the f-k domain, which effectively suppresses non-coherent signals in the data. For the remaining coherent data, the unwanted part is muted and the wanted part is retained and inverse-transformed to yield the coherence-filtered array waveform data. After this processing, small signals that are hidden in the original data are extracted with much enhanced coherence. Subsequent processing of the data yields reliable information about formation acoustic property.
US07660194B2 Microseismic fracture mapping using seismic source timing measurements for velocity calibration
A system and method for microseismic fracture mapping using seismic source timing measurements for velocity calibration is disclosed. The system may include a seismic source coupled to a wireline and a seismic source trigger, a sensor capable of detecting a first signal from the seismic source trigger, a transmitter coupled to the sensor, capable of transmitting a time value associated with the first signal, a receiver capable of detecting an event generated by the seismic source; and an analyzer capable of calculating a microseismic velocity of the event. In one embodiment, a first signal is transmitted through a wireline to trigger a seismic source. The first signal is detected, and a first time value associated with the first signal is transmitted. An event associated with the seismic source is detected and a second signal associated with the event is transmitted to an analyzer. A microseismic velocity is calibrated based on the time difference between the first time value and a second time value associated with the second signal.
US07660187B2 Method and apparatus for initialization of read latency tracking circuit in high-speed DRAM
A method of controlling the output of data from a memory device includes deriving from an external clock signal a read clock and a control clock for operating an array of storage cells, both the read clock and the control clock each being comprised of clock pulses. A value is preloaded into one or both of a first counter located in the read clock domain and a second counter located in the control clock domain such that the difference in starting counts between the two counters is equal to a column address strobe latency (L) minus a synchronization (SP) overhead. A start signal is generated for initiating production of a running count of the read clock pulses in the first counter. The input of the start signal to the second counter is delayed so as to delay the initiation of a running count of the control clock pulses. A value of the second counter is held in response to a read command. The held value of the second counter is compared to a running count of the first counter; and data is output from the memory device with the read clock signal in response to the comparing.
US07660186B2 Memory clock generator having multiple clock modes
An integrated circuit 2 with a memory 4 is provided with clock generator circuitry 18. The clock generator circuitry 18 operates in a first mode in which the memory clock signal mclk is generated in dependence upon both the rising edge and the falling edge of a source clock signal sclk. In a second mode of operation the clock generator circuitry 18 generates the memory clock signal mclk following the rising edge of the source clock signal sclk and then using a self-timing delay path 26 to trigger the falling edge of the memory clock signal mclk. The first mode of operation can be used during write operations and during read operations at the lowest one of a plurality of different dynamically selectable voltage levels of operation of the memory 4. The second mode of self-timed memory clock signal can be used during reads at operating voltages other than the lowest operating voltage.
US07660180B2 Dielectric antifuse for electro-thermally programmable device
A thermally programmable memory has a programmable element (20) of a thermally programmable resistance preferably of phase change material, material and a blown antifuse (80) located adjacent to the programmable material. Such a blown antifuse has a dielectric layer (100) surrounded by conductive layers (90, 110) to enable a brief high voltage to be applied across the dielectric to blow a small hole in the dielectric during manufacture to form a small conductive path which can be used as a tiny electrical heater for programming the material. Due to the current confinement by the hole, the volume of the material that must be heated in order to switch to a highly-resistive state is very small. As a result the programming power can be low.
US07660179B2 Apparatus for controlling activation period of word line of volatile memory device and method thereof
An apparatus for controlling an activation period of a word line of a volatile memory device is disclosed. The apparatus adjusts the activation period of the word line using a member for adjusting a pulse width of a pulse signal that activates the word line according to an operation mode of the volatile memory device.
US07660175B2 Integrated circuit, method for acquiring data and measurement system
An embodiment of an integrated circuit comprises a plurality of cells. Each cell comprises a first supply node, a second supply node, a series connection with a first transistor, a second transistor and an electrical element. The series connection is coupled between the first and the second supply node. The electrical element includes a first and a second node. A third transistor is coupled between the first node of the electrical element and a first output node of the cell and a fourth transistor is coupled between the second node of the electrical element and the second output node of the cell. A control terminal of the first, the third and the fourth transistor is coupled to a first control node of the cell and a control terminal of the second transistor is coupled to a second control node of the cell.
US07660172B2 Method and apparatus for synchronizing data from memory arrays
According to one embodiment, a combination is comprised of a plurality of sense amps, each having an input for receiving a clock signal. A data bus is for receiving data from the plurality of sense amps in response to a clock signal being input to the plurality of sense amps. A tracking circuit is responsive to the clock signal for producing a control signal. A plurality of latches is responsive to the control signal for latching data from the bus. The control signal has a delay that is equal to the time needed for a last data bit to arrive at the plurality of latches. That delay may be equal to a delay associated with inputting the clock signal to a last one of the plurality of sense amps, plus a delay of the last sense amp, plus a delay of the data bus. That amount of delay may be achieved in a number of ways which combines electrical delay with delay inherently associated with the tracking circuit's location. For example, the delay of the control signal may be achieved by locating the tracking circuit proximate to the last one of the plurality of sense amps and providing the tracking circuit with an electrical delay equal to the delay of the last one of the plurality of sense amps. Because of the rules governing abstracts, this abstract should not be used to construe the claims.
US07660171B2 Semiconductor memory device and method for driving the same
A semiconductor memory device includes: a first count unit for counting a delayed locked loop (DLL) clock in response to a clock enable signal; a first delay unit for delaying the clock enable signal for a delay time which corresponds to a delay amount of a delay model included in a DLL circuit; a second count unit for counting an external clock in response to the delayed clock enable signal; a comparison unit for comparing an output of the first count unit with an output of the second count unit in order to generate a latency signal; and an output enable signal generation unit for generating an output enable signal by using the latency signal.
US07660167B1 Memory device and method for fast cross row data access
A memory device can provide burst access to row boundary crossing addresses without introducing inter-burst latency. Address locations for a first row of the burst can be accessed at speed, while a prefetch latch can be accessed in lieu of a next row.
US07660161B2 Integrated flash memory systems and methods for load compensation
Systems and methods are disclosed including features that compensate for variations in the magnitude of supply voltages used in memory arrays. According to some aspects, compensation circuits may provide a tunable current-limiting load for data columns, where the load can be tuned to dynamically compensate for variations in supply voltage. In certain aspects, a compensation circuit may employ an operational amplifier configured as a voltage follower. The voltage follower compensates for any variations in supply voltage, forcing a constant voltage drop across the load element(s), thus maintaining a constant load. Other circuits may also be included, such as precharge circuits, clamp circuits, buffer circuits, trimming circuit, and sense amplifier circuits with sensed body effect. System-On-Chip integrated system aspects may include a microcontroller, a mixed IP, and a flash memory system having functionality and blocks that interface and interoperate with each other for load compensation.
US07660158B2 Programming method to reduce gate coupling interference for non-volatile memory
A non-volatile memory device and programming process is described that compensates for coupling effects on threshold gate voltages of adjacent floating gate or non-conductive floating node memory cells by adjusting the threshold voltage level programmed in view of the data being programmed on a following programming cycle into adjacent memory cells, so that the coupling effect results in the desired target threshold voltages for the cells. In one embodiment of the present invention, memory cell coupling is compensated for by adjusting programming level of one or more memory cells of a first page a memory array to a higher or lower threshold verify target voltage given the data/programming level to be written to directly adjacent memory cells of a second page, so that coupling between the directly adjacent memory cells of the first and second pages brings the memory cells of first page to their final target programming level.
US07660143B2 Multibit ROM memory
The invention concerns a ROM comprising a set of memory points arranged in rows and columns, each memory point capable of storing two bits of data and comprising a single switch controllable to connect together first and second terminals of said switch, each of said first and second terminals being connected to one of first, second and third conductive lines, wherein said switch is connected via said first and second terminals between said first and second lines to encode a first data value, between said first and third lines to encode a second data value, between said second and third lines to encode a third data value, and both of said first and second terminals being connected to the same one of said first, second and third lines to encode a fourth data value.
US07660134B2 DC-DC converter and control method thereof
A DC-DC converter has a switching circuit including switching elements at the high-side and at the low-side, an inductor connected to the output end of the switching circuit, a smoothing capacitor connected to the inductor, a switching control circuit for supplying a switching pulse to the switching elements, and a circuit. The circuit detects that a state that the switching element at the high side is switched off and the switching element at the low side is switched on is maintained for a predetermined period or longer. In this case, the circuit forcibly switches off the switching element at the low side.
US07660133B1 Resonant switching converter having operating modes above and below resonant frequency
A resonant switching converter comprises a resonant tank having a resonant frequency; a synchronous rectifier coupled to the resonant tank, the synchronous rectifier drawing power from the resonant tank for forming an output voltage; and a controller coupled to the synchronous rectifier for controlling switching of the synchronous rectifier using frequency modulation. The controller operates in a first mode in which the switching of the synchronous rectifier is performed above the resonant frequency of the resonant tank. The first mode employs a duty cycle for the synchronous rectifier. In addition, the controller operates in a second mode in which the switching of the synchronous rectifier is performed below the resonant frequency and the duty cycle of the synchronous rectifier in the second mode is reduced from that of the first mode.
US07660130B2 Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device includes: a wiring substrate including multiple connection pads provided on a top surface thereof and multiple lands that are provided on a bottom surface thereof and electrically connected to the corresponding connection pads; a semiconductor chip mounted on the top surface of the wiring substrate and electrically connected to the connection pads; a solder resist deposited on the bottom surface of the wiring substrate and having multiple openings to which the lands are respectively exposed, each of the openings being shifted with respect to a corresponding land of the lands; multiple external terminals connected respectively to the lands through the openings; and a dummy wiring arranged on the bottom surface of the wiring substrate and separately from the corresponding land so that a corresponding external terminal of the external terminals is connected to the corresponding land and the dummy wiring partially exposed to the corresponding opening.
US07660125B2 Heat management in circuit card assemblies
A circuit card assembly (CCA) comprises a printed circuit board (PCB) having first and second opposing major faces with a first pair of elongated edges extending therebetween. Heat management layers are disposed within the CCA and/or PCB, which extend to said edges, and a thermally conductive bar is engaged in a slot provided in each of the elongated edges. Each conductive bar extends over at least the thickness of the PCB, one face preferably being flush with one of the major faces of the PCB and is thermally connected to the heat management layer(s) by thermal connecting means so as to conduct heat from the or each heat management layer to said bar.
US07660123B1 Heat dissipating fin assembly for clamping dynamic random access memory to dissipate heat
An exemplary heat dissipating fin assembly for clamping the DRAM to dissipate heat includes a number of heat dissipating fins arranged in a stacked fashion and a shaft. Each of the heat dissipating fins defines a pivoting hole and a slot therein. The slots of the heat dissipating fins are configured for receiving the DRAM. The shaft goes through the pivoting hole of each of the heat dissipating fins so as to string the heat dissipating fins. The heat dissipating fin assembly can enhance heat dissipating efficiency of the DRAM and reduce cost greatly.
US07660121B2 System of facilitating cooling of electronics racks of a data center employing multiple cooling stations
A cooling system and method are provided for cooling air exiting one or more electronics racks of a data center. The cooling system includes at least one cooling station separate and freestanding from at least one respective electronics rack of the data center, and configured for disposition of an air outlet side of electronics rack adjacent thereto for cooling egressing air from the electronics rack. The cooling station includes a frame structure separate and freestanding from the respective electronics rack, and an air-to-liquid heat exchange assembly supported by the frame structure. The heat exchange assembly includes an inlet and an outlet configured to respectively couple to coolant supply and coolant return lines for facilitating passage of coolant therethrough. The air-to-liquid heat exchange assembly is sized to cool egressing air from the air outlet side of the respective electronics rack before being expelled into the data center.
US07660119B2 Electronic device
According to one embodiment, an electronic device includes a cooling fan which is arranged in a case, a space being present between heat radiation fins and the cooling fan, and a case-contained member contained in the case. The case includes a second member which is detachably coupled to a first member and faces the space. The case-contained member faces the space on the side opposite to the second member. When the second member is coupled to the first member, the second member and the case-contained member cooperate to form a duct which guides air exhausted from the cooling fan to the heat radiation fins.
US07660117B2 Deformable duct guides that accommodate electronic connection lines
A duct work assembly is coupled to an end of an electronics enclosure that houses one or more heat generating devices, such as electronics servers. The duct work assembly includes individual duct guides that each have a deformable end, which is configured to locally deform around the electrical connection lines extending from the rear of one or more electronics servers. The deformable end can be made of bristles, as in a brush, or foam that includes slits and/or holes.
US07660109B2 Apparatus and method for facilitating cooling of an electronics system
Apparatus and method are provided for facilitating air-cooling of an electronics system employing a vapor-compression heat exchange system, and front and back covers. An evaporator housing of the heat exchange system is mounted to a system housing of the electronics system and extends at least partially between air inlet and outlet sides of the system housing. The evaporator housing includes air inlet and outlet openings, and an evaporator. The front cover is mounted to the system or evaporator housing adjacent to the air inlet side or air outlet opening, and the back cover is mounted to the system or evaporator housing adjacent to the air outlet side or air inlet opening. Together, the system housing, back cover, evaporator housing and front cover define a closed loop airflow path passing through the system housing and evaporator housing, with the vapor-compression heat exchange system cooling air circulating therethrough.
US07660108B2 Apparatus for positioning electronic component modules within an equipment chassis
An apparatus for positioning an electronics module in an equipment chassis with adequate pathways for the flow of cooling air across the module or across one or more adjacent modules, such as one or more blade server. The system includes an electronics module movably secured within a sub-assembly prior to installing the sub-assembly in a bay of a chassis. Ramps disposed within one or more bays of the chassis engage and position the electronics modules within the range of movement permitted by the sub-assembly when the sub-assembly has been installed in the chassis. Two bays having ramps positioned differently can receive the same sub-assembly or an identical sub-assembly and position the module differently. Therefore, the sub-assemblies are interchangeable while maintaining appropriate air flow pathways.
US07660098B2 Substrate holding system and exposure apparatus using the same
A substrate holding system for holding a substrate based on vacuum attraction and electrostatic attraction including a rim configured to support the substrate, a protrusion for the electrostatic attraction, configured to support the substrate inside the rim, and a protrusion for the vacuum attraction, configured to support the substrate inside the rim. A substrate supporting surface area of the protrusion of the electrostatic attraction is larger than a substrate supporting surface area of the protrusion for the vacuum attraction.
US07660088B2 System, apparatus and method for compensating the sensitivity of a sequence element in a line current differential relay in a power system
An apparatus and method compensate for the sensitivity of at least one line current differential element of a first current differential relay providing differential protection for a transmission line of a power system during a single-phase pole-open condition. The apparatus includes a first delta filter configured to remove a first pre-fault current from a first fault current of the transmission line to derive a compensated first current phasor. The apparatus also includes a second delta filter configured to remove a second pre-fault current from a second fault current of the transmission line to derive a compensated second current phasor. The compensated first and second current phasors are provided to the at least one line current differential element to compensate the sensitivity of the at least one line current differential element.
US07660077B2 Method and system for reduction of off-track write errors in disk drives
In an embodiment of the present invention, at least one mechanical fastener is used to mount a voice coil magnet assembly of a hard disk drive on a housing of the hard disk drive. A layer of a material having a low friction coefficient is disposed between the housing and the voice coil magnet assembly.
US07660076B2 Helical gear actuator for tape drive systems
An actuator includes a leadscrew and a helical gear engaging the leadscrew, the helical gear having journals extending from opposite ends thereof. A carriage operatively engages the journals. A relative rotation between the leadscrew and the helical gear creates a relative movement between the carriage and the leadscrew in a direction parallel to an axis of the leadscrew.
US07660070B2 Quiet high performance seek procedure for disk drives
a seek procedure for a hard disk drive which provides a significant reduction in acoustic noise as well as high performance fast seek times is described. The seek procedure lowers the peak acceleration for short seeks and imparts a smooth transition from a sine seek to an exponential arrival at the target track. The seek procedure provides an error free feedforward signal derived from a single sine table. The procedure which contains a time domain sinusoid acceleration feedforward combined with a phase-plane trajectory controlled velocity which, near seek completion. The procedure is constructed so that the acceleration begins at zero and, in the fashion of a sine, increases to a maximum, decreases to a minimum and then increases again until a computed switchpoint is reached. The switchpoint is determined in-situ, to provide a smooth and continuous velocity transition from sinusoid to exponential. The velocity trajectory is computed from a look-up table. The procedure is implemented using conventional seek controller servo components and commercially available operation software.
US07660068B1 Method and system for pre-contact detection and active damping of air bearing vibrations in a hard disk drive
In a method of pre-contact detection and active damping of air bearing vibrations in a hard disk drive, a slider is isolated from ground. The slider is then capacitively coupled with a hard disk of the hard disk drive via a thermal fly-height control (TFC) heating element. An alternating current (AC) signal is applied to the slider via the TFC heating element to control the amplitude of the slider.
US07660062B2 Media drive, processing method for recording data onto a medium, processing method for data read from a medium, and method for controlling a process for reading data from a medium
Embodiments of the invention control a recovery procedure effectively in accordance with write conditions. In one embodiment, the data to be written into a sector includes not only user data but also recording condition data, which indicates the temperature prevalent during a write. If a data read is not accurately performed, a recovery procedure is executed. If a data read is accomplished by a retry and the temperature prevalent during a write is lower than predetermined, it is concluded that the employed medium is nondefective. Thus, the read data is rewritten into the same sector without being stored in a spare area. This prevents the spare area from being unnecessarily consumed.
US07660059B2 Method of controlling write strength of HDD and recording medium having recorded thereon program suitable for same
Provided are a method of improving a recording performance of a hard disk drive (HDD) by controlling write strength according to a flying height of a head and a computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a computer-readable program suitable for the method. The method of controlling write strength of the HDD includes calculating the flying height of the head before starting a recording operation and controlling the write strength according to the calculated flying height. Accordingly, optimal writing can be performed by the write strength according to the head flying height.
US07660055B2 Optical element and optical element holder
An optical element including a first groove extending from first end of the outer peripheral face in an optical axis direction towards second end, and a second groove connected to the first groove and extending from second end of the outer peripheral face in the optical axis direction towards first end; and a position-adjusting concave part which is between the first and second grooves and adjusts positions by adjusting member in the optical axis direction, a revolving direction about the optical axis, a width direction of first and second grooves, which is orthogonal to the optical axis, and in a synthesized direction that is a combination of at least two of those directions, wherein the optical element is molded by using only a first molding die for molding a part on the first groove side and a second molding die for molding a part on the second groove side.
US07660053B2 Lens barrel and imaging apparatus
A lens barrel includes a lens frame movable in optical axis directions of a lens, a cam barrel rotated around outside the lens frame to move the lens frame in the optical axis directions, a base supporting the cam barrel to be rotatable and to be immovable in axial directions, and a hollow motor including a rotor and a stator and rotating the cam barrel. The stator supported by the base surrounds the rotor provided outside the cam barrel to be movable in the axial directions and rotate integrally with the cam barrel. As the rotor moves in one of the axial directions, a second locking portion of the base engages with a first locking portion of the rotor to prevent rotation of the rotor. A movement mechanism moves the rotor in the axial directions between a locking position and an unlocking position of the first and second locking portions.
US07660044B2 Image display apparatus and image display method
An image display apparatus has light beam emitting units (304L, 304R) which emit light beams based on image information and a set operating frequency, and MEMS mirrors (305L, 305R) which deflect the emitted light beams by deflection operations based on the operating frequency, in correspondence with the right and left eyes. Resonance frequency detection units (306L, 306R) respectively detect the resonance frequencies of the MEMS mirrors (305L, 305R). A control unit (307) sets the operating frequency of the MEMS mirrors (305L, 305R) based on the detected resonance frequencies.
US07660041B1 Method of producing a sheet having lenticular lenses for a three dimensional display system
A method of manufacturing a lenticular sheet having as its primary steps the provision of a substantially transparent substrate material; forming a plurality of lenses on a first side of the substrate; and shaping the substrate to correspond to a display area of a display device, wherein the plurality of lenses are angled to correspond to the pixel size and pitch of the display area. A display system is also disclosed, wherein the display systems generally includes a computer for processing, saving and playing at least one image; software for interlacing the image; software for processing slides and movies comprised of multiple images; a lenticular screen overlaid upon a video display device for viewing the interlaced images in three dimensions.
US07660031B2 Device and method for modifying actuation voltage thresholds of a deformable membrane in an interferometric modulator
By varying the spacing between a partially-reflective, partially-transmissive surface and a highly reflective surface positioned behind the partially-reflective, partially-transmissive surface, an interferometric modulator selectively creates constructive and/or destructive interference between light waves reflecting off the two surfaces. The spacing can be varied by applying a voltage to create electrostatic attraction between the two surfaces, which causes one or both surfaces to deform and move closer together. In the absence of such attraction, the surfaces are in a relaxed position, where they are farther apart from one another. A actuation voltage is needed to create sufficient electrostatic attraction to cause a surface to deform. The actuation voltage can be modified by implanting ions in a dielectric layer attached to one or both surfaces. Upon the application of a voltage, the ions create a baseline level of repulsion or attraction between the two surfaces, which thus require more or less voltage, respectively, to cause a surface to deform. The degree of ion implantation can be chosen to set the actuation voltage as desired, or the surfaces can be made to deform at a given voltage by appropriately selecting the degree of ion implantation.
US07660023B2 Facsimile apparatus
A facsimile apparatus has a line I/F section that transmits and receives a signal through a network to which an exchange is connected, a modem signal detection section that detects a modem signal transmitted through the network, a ring signal detection section that detects a ring signal transmitted through the network from the exchange, a switch section that switches a signal detection mode of the line I/F section between a ring signal detection mode in which the ring signal detection section detects the ring signal and a modem signal detection mode in which the modem signal detection section detects the modem signal, and an operating state determination section that determines an operating state of the facsimile apparatus, wherein if the operating state determination section determines that the facsimile apparatus is in a standby mode, the switch section switches the signal detection mode into the ring signal detection mode.
US07660021B2 Facsimile machine
A facsimile machine according to the present invention is capable of accurately comprehending management information of a received document such as from which source to which destination a received document on a discharge tray has been sent, when and by whom a part or the whole has been taken away, since a received document managing section 37 manages the received facsimile document based on a placement status obtained by a placement status obtaining section 27 and stored information of a reception information storing section 31. Consequently, the received facsimile document which has been sent from a source to a destination can be managed properly based on the management information.
US07660010B2 Controller driver, liquid crystal display apparatus using the same, and liquid crystal driving method
A controller driver includes a first compressor for compressing received image data to generate first compressed image data, a second compressor to generate second compressed image data, and an image memory capable of storing the second compressed image data of at least one frame. It also includes an overdrive processing unit for generating corrected image data where a tone value of the received image data is corrected from the first compressed image data or its expanded data and second compressed image data of one frame previous to the first compressed image data or its expanded data. The compression processing performed in the first compressor is the same as compression processing performed in the second compressor in compressing image data of one frame previous to the received image data.
US07660002B2 Image forming system, method of displaying various kinds of information of image forming apparatus, and program for displaying various kinds of information of image forming apparatus
There is provided an image forming system in which each user can arbitrarily change an information display page for referring to various kinds of information of an image forming apparatus by a user's terminal unit connected to a network. An image forming apparatus 10, in which various kinds of information relating to the operation of an image forming apparatus can be referred to and set by a terminal unit 410 connected to the image forming apparatus through a network 300, is constructed in such a way that an information display page (my page) 230 specific to a user, in which each information item selected by the user is displayed at each specified position, is displayed as an information display page 210 expressing various kinds of information on the screen of the terminal unit.
US07659995B2 Digitizer using plural capture methods to image features of 3-D objects
A method and apparatus to digitize three-dimensional objects. A projection assembly is retained in fixed relation to an imaging assembly. The projection assembly projects a fixed gradient light pattern into a focal zone of the imaging assembly. The imaging assembly integrates the illumination over time such that the fixed gradient reveals the features of the three dimensional object.
US07659994B2 Apparatus for the determination of surface properties
A device for determining properties of surfaces having at least one first radiation device having at least one radiation source emitting radiation, having at least one first radiation detector having a first radiation detector element which captures at least a portion of the radiation emitted from the radiation device and subsequently diffused and/or reflected off a measuring surface and emits at least one measuring signal characteristic of the reflected/diffused radiation, and at least one second radiation detector having a second radiation detector element capturing a portion of the radiation from the radiation device and diffused/reflected off a measuring surface and outputs a measuring signal characteristic of the reflected and/or diffused radiation, and at least one filter device which is placeable both in the optical path between the radiation device and the first radiation detector and in the optical path between the radiation device and the second radiation detector.
US07659990B2 Enhanced optical coherence tomography for anatomical mapping
A system, method and apparatus for anatomical mapping utilizing optical coherence tomography. In the present invention, 3-dimensional fundus intensity imagery can be acquired from a scanning of light back-reflected from an eye. The scanning can include spectral domain scanning, as an example. A fundus intensity image can be acquired in real-time. The 3-dimensional data set can be reduced to generate an anatomical mapping, such as an edema mapping and a thickness mapping. Optionally, a partial fundus intensity image can be produced from the scanning of the eye to generate an en face view of the retinal structure of the eye without first requiring a full segmentation of the 3-D data set. Advantageously, the system, method and apparatus of the present invention can provide quantitative three-dimensional information about the spatial location and extent of macular edema and other pathologies. This three-dimensional information can be used to determine the need for treatment, monitor the effectiveness of treatment and identify the return of fluid that may signal the need for re-treatment.
US07659983B2 Hybrid random bead/chip based microarray
A method and apparatus for performing an assay process, featuring providing microbeads in a solution, each microbead having a particle substrate with a grating with a superposition of different predetermined regular periodic variations of the index of refraction disposed in the particle along a grating axis and indicative of a code; placing the microbeads on an alignment substrate; reading codes of the microbeads and the position thereof on the alignment substrate; reading the fluorescence on each microbead and the position order thereof on the alignment substrate; and determining an assay result based on bead position order and bead code of the earlier reading steps.
US07659979B2 Optical inspection apparatus and method
Performing modulation spectroscopy by directing a probe beam and a pump beam at a strained semiconductor sample, modulating the pump beam, and reflecting the probe beam into a detector. The detector produces a direct current signal proportional to reflectance R of the probe beam and an alternating current signal proportional to the modulation of the reflectance ΔR of the probe beam. Both R and ΔR are measured at a multiplicity of probe beam photon energies, to provide a spectrum having at least one line shape. The spectrum is analyzed to measure energy differences between interband electronic transitions of the sample, and the strain of the sample is determined from the energy differences.
US07659974B2 System and method for controlling light scattered from a workpiece surface in a surface inspection system
In one embodiment, a surface analyzer system comprises a radiation targeting assembly to target a radiation beam onto a surface; and a scattered radiation collecting assembly that collects radiation scattered from the surface. The radiation targeting assembly generates primary and secondary beams. Data collected from the reflections of the primary and secondary beams may be used in a dynamic range extension routine, alone or in combination with a power attenuation routine.
US07659971B2 Lensometers and wavefront sensors and methods of measuring aberration
Wavefront measuring systems and methods are disclosed which may be employed, for example, in detecting phase aberrations in a spectacle lens and in an eye. Various embodiments include disposing a modulation pattern in the path of a return beam from the spectacle lens or the eye, and imaging a diffraction pattern at a self-imaging plane relative to the modulation pattern with a detector. The diffraction pattern is analyzed and the results are used to produce a representation of the wavefront phase characteristics that describe aberrations in the lens or eye being measured. Illumination and processing techniques for improving the measurement results are disclosed. Various embodiments comprise systems adaptable to both measure aberrations in lenses in spectacles as well as in a patient's eyes.
US07659969B2 Diagnosis method and diagnosis chip for the determination of the bandwidth of optical fibers
For determination of the bandwidth of optical fibers, the invention proposes a method which comprises the injection of light at a first optical power level and at a first frequency into an optical fiber, as well as the measurement of a first signal level as a function of the optical power level of the light passing through the fiber at the first frequency, the injection of light at the second optical power level and at a second frequency into the optical fiber, the measurement of a second signal level as a function of the optical power level of the light passing through the fiber at the second frequency, and the determination of the bandwidth of the fiber as a function of the first and second optical power levels and/or of the measured first and second signal levels using a predetermined rule which describes the frequency-dependant attenuation response of the fiber.
US07659965B2 High throughput wafer stage design for optical lithography exposure apparatus
An optical lithography exposure apparatus which may be a stepper or a scanner, provides a wafer chuck that retains a wafer and at least one opaque exposure shield that extends over a discrete peripheral edge portion of the wafer thereby preventing illumination from exposing the portion of the wafer beneath the exposure shield. In a positive photoresist system, the portions of the wafer blocked from exposure by the shields, include alignment marks and the unexposed photoresist remains over the alignment marks thereby protecting the alignment marks from destruction or damage during subsequent patterning operations used to form patterns in the film being patterned.
US07659963B2 Liquid crystal dispensing apparatus with nozzle cleaning device
A liquid crystal dispensing apparatus includes a liquid crystal dispensing means and a nozzle cleaning means. The liquid crystal dispensing means includes a liquid crystal container for containing liquid crystal material and a nozzle through which the liquid crystal material may be dispensed on a substrate. The nozzle cleaning means is arranged around the nozzle and removes liquid crystal residue accumulated on a surface of the nozzle, moves to a lower portion of the nozzle to suck and remove the liquid crystal residue after liquid crystal material is dispensed by the liquid crystal dispensing means a predetermined number of times.
US07659961B2 Thin film transistor substrate capable of enhancing image clarity and reducing residual images
A thin film transistor substrate and a liquid crystal display capable of eliminating residual images and enhancing clarity are presented. The thin film transistor substrate includes a charge-up capacitor for increasing electric charge in a first pixel electrode of a first pixel capacitor and a charge-down capacitor decreasing electric charge in a second pixel electrode of a second pixel capacitor. An extension electrode portion of the charge-up capacitor is formed in the shape of a frame to reduce any variation in the overlapping area between the first pixel electrode and the extension electrode portion caused by an alignment error generated during the manufacturing process.
US07659955B2 Liquid crystal device and projection display device with optical-axis-adjusting unit for optical compensator
A liquid crystal device includes an OCB mode liquid crystal panel including a pair of substrates and a liquid crystal layer disposed therebetween, an optical compensator provided on at least one side of the liquid crystal panel, and an optical-axis-adjusting unit that moves the optical compensator relative to the liquid crystal panel to adjust an angle formed by an optical axis of the optical compensator and an optical axis of the liquid crystal panel.
US07659952B2 Color-filter substrate, method and apparatus for manufacturing color-filter substrate, and liquid crystal display and method for manufacturing liquid crystal display
To make it difficult to view streak unevenness in alignment generated at the boundary of alignment layers even when an alignment-layer material is applied onto a color-filter substrate several times to form an alignment layer. When an alignment-layer material is applied onto a color-filter substrate 1 having color filters (R, G, and B) on the surface with a droplet discharge head 3 to form an alignment-layer train 4a, the lateral front end L1 of the train 4a is formed on the color filter (B) displaying blue. When the alignment-layer material is then applied to the following alignment-layer application train to form an alignment-layer train 4b, the lateral rear end L2 of the train 4b is overlapped with the lateral front end L1 of the preceding alignment-layer train 4a to form an overlapped portion 4c. Since the overlapped portion 4c is formed on the color filter (B) displaying blue which has the lowest visibility of the three primary colors of light, streak unevenness in alignment generated at the boundary is difficult to view from the exterior.
US07659949B2 Backlight unit and liquid crystal display employing the same
A backlight unit (2) comprising a shallow box type case (3) having low profile sidewalls and opening upward, a light guide plate (7) in the box type case (3), and a supporting frame (11) containing optical members such as a linear light source (8) and an optical sheet (10) and securing the optical members in place by being fitted in the opening. A first engaging portion (4) is provided on the inside of the sidewall of the box type case (3) and second engaging portions (121-124) are provided on the outer surface of the sidewall of the supporting frame (11) being fitted in the upper opening of the box type case (3). A locking means (14) is attached to the second engaging portion such that the locking means (14) engages with and locks the first engaging portion when the first and second engaging portions engage with each other, thus preventing unfastening of the supporting frame. A liquid crystal display employing the backlight unit is also provided.
US07659947B2 Liquid crystal display device having gate wiring on interlayer insulting film which is over transistor, and light shielding layer(s)
A liquid crystal layer is provided between a pair of substrates, one of the pair of substrates is provided with a pixel region including a TFT and a light shielding layer in which an opening portion is formed, a semiconductor layer composing the TFT is overlapped with the light shielding layer and formed along one side of the opening portion, and an alignment of a liquid crystal molecule is controlled such that light which transmits through the liquid crystal layer is incident as polarized light perpendicular to the one side of the opening portion. The liquid crystal layer is particularly made of more a TN mode liquid crystal.
US07659944B2 Digital video signal processing apparatus and method for field-based adaptive spatio-temporal Y/C separation
A digital video signal processing apparatus and method for field-based adaptive Y/C separation includes an adaptive 3D BPF performing Y/C separation according to local comb filtering/1D band pass filtering when the edge direction is fixed vertically/horizontally in response to spatio-temporal local characteristics of an image using spatio-temporal filters. When the edge direction is not fixed horizontally or vertically, the 3D BPF performs 2D/3D band pass filtering in all directions. The 3D BPF adaptively and continuously carries out comb filtering, 1D band pass filtering and 2D/3D band pass filtering in response to the spatio-temporal local characteristics of the image.
US07659943B2 Information-processing apparatus and removable substrate used therein
An information-processing apparatus is provided. For example, an information-processing apparatus has a noise-reduction-processing unit configured to reduce noise included in a received informational signal, an adjustment unit configured to allow a user to adjust a value of a noise reduction level in the noise-reduction-processing unit, a noise-amount-detecting unit configured to detect an amount of the noise contained in the received informational signal, and a storage control unit configured to control at least any one of an amount of noise that is detected by the noise-amount-detecting unit and paired data relative to data on a value of the noise reduction level that is adjusted by the adjustment unit and data on an amount of noise that is detected by the noise-amount-detecting unit at the adjustment by the adjustment unit.
US07659938B2 Nonlinear movement and tilt angle control structure of an image capture device inside a light box
Nonlinear movement and tilt angle control structure of an image capture device inside a light box includes a nonlinear motion set, a rotation set, a cartridge and a compartment. The nonlinear motion set uses dual guiding rails or a single guiding rail to drive the image capture device from top and side directions. The rotation set rotates the image capture device. The cartridge carries the rotation set and is driven by the nonlinear motion set to perform the nonlinear motion. And, the compartment is configured inside the rotation set to ride and fasten the image capture device.
US07659935B1 Video camera utilizing sequential diversity imaging for image clarification
A video camera with an adaptive optic device, digital images, and a sequential diversity processor can reduce the optical aberrations introduced by a changing optical medium so as to produce sharper clarified images. The change in the optics between sequential video frames is diversity information which allows the sequential diversity processor to estimate both the object under observation and the aberration. No additional information, such as a defocused image or other sensing device, is required. The concept could be used in any video camera which outputs digital images and uses a digital processor to control the adaptive optic device between sequential frames.
US07659925B2 High speed CMOS image sensor circuits with memory readout
An image sensor circuit includes a pixel array, a plurality of column analog-to-digital conversion (ADC) circuits, and at least two memory blocks. Each column ADC circuit is connected to receive analog pixel signals provided from corresponding pixel circuits of the pixel array, and is configured to convert the received analog pixel signals into digital pixel signals. Each memory block is connected to receive digital pixel signals provided from corresponding column ADC circuits of the plurality of column ADC circuits. At least two of the at least two memory blocks are connected to receive digital pixel signals that are provided from corresponding column ADC circuits that are located to a same side of the pixel array. Each memory block of the at least two memory blocks includes a plurality of memory cells, one or more sense amplifiers connected to the memory cells by a readout bus, and a memory controller.
US07659919B2 Mobile television channel switching system and method
Presented is a method of displaying a newly requested channel in a mobile TV device prior to retuning the mobile TV device to the newly selected channel. The mobile TV device demodulator and tuner are cycled on for a short period of time at regular intervals to conserve battery power. Data is buffered from multiple channels in a buffer within the mobile TV device while the demodulator is cycled on. The mobile TV device displays data from one of the buffered channels upon a request to switch to the channel prior to retuning the mobile TV device to the newly selected channel. The mobile TV device is then retuned to the newly selected channel at the next instance the demodulator and tuner are cycled on.
US07659914B1 Generation of an image from text
This invention consists of processes that cause text that is placed on a surface to be selectively scaled, thickened or thinned to achieve the overall appearance of lightness or darkness, thereby forming the approximation of an image. A target image can be used whereby each character's modification in the text will be based on the grayscale value of the corresponding sections of the target image in order to best represent and approximate it. Multiple techniques for implementing this invention are described, including techniques for selectively modifying the text. Novel techniques are also explained for thickening or thinning graphical elements such as text to approximate a target image.
US07659912B2 Insertion support system for producing imaginary endoscopic image and supporting insertion of bronchoscope
In an insertion support system according to the present invention, on the basis of the rotation angle data of the VBS images stored in the memory, an image processing unit rotates and corrects the VBS image and the thumbnail VBS images to generate the insertion support screen.
US07659909B1 Arithmetic logic unit temporary registers
An arithmetic logic unit (ALU) in a graphics processor is described. The ALU includes circuitry for performing an operation using a first set of pixel data. The first set of pixel data is resident in a pipeline register coupled to the circuitry. A temporary register is coupled to the circuitry. The temporary register can receive a result of the operation. The temporary register allows a result generated using one set of pixel data to be used with a subsequent set of pixel data in the same ALU. The result of the operation can thus be used in a second operation with a second set of pixel data that resides in the pipeline register after the first set of pixel data.
US07659906B2 Airborne real time image exploitation system (ARIES)
An apparatus includes an image buffer, a graphics buffer, a memory, a router, and a sensor interface. The apparatus further includes a memory controller for controlling transfer of image data from the image buffer to the memory via the router and for controlling transfer of graphics data from the memory to the graphics buffer via the router. The apparatus also includes an image controller simultaneously operable with the memory controller for controlling transfer of the image data from the sensor interface to the image buffer. Optionally, the sensor interface comprises a receiver and a transmitter. Optionally, the apparatus further includes a header buffer, and a header controller simultaneously operable with the memory controller for controlling transfer of header data from the sensor interface to the header buffer. The apparatus optionally further includes a sensor for communicating with the header controller via the sensor interface.
US07659901B2 Application program interface for programmable graphics pipeline
Systems and methods that optimize GPU processing by front loading activities from a set time/binding time to creation time via enhancements to an API that configures the GPU. Such enhancements to the API include: implementing layering arrangements, employing state objects and view components for data objects; incorporating a pipeline stage linkage/signature, employing a detection mechanism to mitigate error conditions. Such an arrangement enables front loading of the work and reduction of associated API calls.
US07659891B2 Associating electronic documents, and apparatus, methods and software relating to such activities
A method of associating a first electronic document with a second electronic document comprising having a first physical paper identifier (130) having pen-readable coding (12) which codes for an identifier for the first electronic document, and reading the coding of the first electronic document with a pen (20) to acquire information enabling the identity of the first electronic document to be established, and communicating that identity to a computer processor (107), and using the processor (107) to associate the identified first electronic document with the second electronic document.
US07659890B2 Automatic height adjustment for electronic highlighter pens and mousing devices
Methods and systems provide for automatic adjustment of electronic highlighter cursor height in response to a determined height of images or typed or handwritten text to be highlighted. The highlighter thickness or cursor height of an electronic highlighter, such as an electronic pen or mousing device, automatically adjusts based on the text or images the user is highlighting. When the user focuses the electronic highlighter on text or images to be highlighted, the height of the text or images is determined, and the height or thickness of the highlighter cursor is automatically adjusted.
US07659874B2 Driving device for liquid crystal panel and image display apparatus
A driving device for a liquid crystal panel having a signal generating circuit; a reference signal generating circuit; a phase comparator that compares phases of an inputted monitor signal and the reference signal and outputs phase comparison information; and an adder. The adder outputting an integrated count value for adjusting timing for generating the start signal on the basis of an initial count value set in advance and the phase comparison information from the phase comparator. The signal generating circuit generates plural timing signals including the start signal with the horizontal synchronizing signal as a trigger and with timing based on the integrated count value as a start point and supplies the timing signals to the liquid crystal panel.
US07659873B2 Current control circuit, LED current control apparatus, and light emitting apparatus
A counter circuit increments a count value bit by bit in synchronization with a clock pulse received from an oscillating portion. A lower order decoder receives the count value output from the counter circuit, compares a bit or bits on a lower side with a set value 1, and outputs an H-level only in a time period when the bit or bits match a bit pattern of set value 1. Similarly, an upper order decoder compares a bit or bits on an upper side with a set value 2, and outputs an H-level only in a time period when the bit or bits match the bit pattern of set value 2. An AND circuit renders a transistor conductive in a time period when both lower and upper order decoders are outputting signals of the H-level.
US07659871B2 Plasma display panel and method for driving same
Provided are a plasma display panel (PDP) and a driving method thereof. The PDP includes a first substrate and a second substrate disposed in parallel and spaced apart from one another. Address electrodes are provided on the first substrate with a first dielectric layer over the address electrodes and the first substrate. Barrier ribs are provided on the dielectric forming a plurality of discharge spaces in which phosphor layers are provided. Sustain electrodes are formed on the second substrate facing the first substrate and are arranged crossing the address electrodes. A second dielectric layer is formed over the address electrodes and on the second substrate, and a protective layer including MgO of at least 99.6% purity by weight is formed over the second dielectric layer by a sintering process. The discharge can be stabilized by varying a Vset applying time or a Vnf voltage applying time according to the temperature of the plasma display panel, and wall charges can be sufficiently accumulated in the reset period.
US07659869B1 System and method for authenticating an end user
A method for authenticating an end user. The method begins by generating a login field in response to receiving an authentication request from an end user. The login field comprises a login node matrix comprising a first set of transparent and opaque nodes in addition to at least one login offset. Next the method determines an authenticity status of the end user by comparing data received from the end user with said first set of transparent nodes. The data received being sent in response to sending the login field to the end user. The end user generated the data by overlaying a transparent credit card on top of the login field and aligning the login offset with a card offset and then selecting at least one node which is not opaque. Finally, the method sends the determined authenticity status to the end user via an output device.
US07659865B2 Adjustable fast set antenna frame
This invention pertains to antenna sector frame that can be more easily installed. The frame is comprised of a support frame having a first vertical end, a second vertical end, an upper horizontal end, and a lower horizontal end. The first vertical end of the support frame may be connected to at least one mounting bracket and the second vertical end of said support frame may be connected to at least one curved T-housing, wherein the lower horizontal end of the support frame is connected to at least one storage base. The face frames comprises of a first vertical end and a second vertical end, wherein the first vertical end may be attached to the curved T-housing.
US07659863B2 Tag antenna
A dipole part of a length shorter than half of an antenna resonance wavelength is placed so as to be rolled and enables a feeding part 11 to feed a chip. An inductance part 12 for adjusting the inductance of the antenna is provided so as to sandwich the feeding part 11. The inductance 12 is provided using an empty space of the inside of the rolled dipole part. By providing the inductance part 12, the inductance of the antenna can be adjusted so as to resonate at a predetermined frequency with the capacitance of the chip connected to the feeding part 11. At this time, although the radiation resistance of the antenna becomes extremely large according to calculations, it is actually almost the same as the resistance of the chip due to loss, and the power received by the antenna can be provided to the chip.
US07659844B2 Optical-to-electrical converter and analog-to-digital converter thereof
An analog-to-digital converter (ADC) for converting an optical signal into an electrical signal is disclosed. The ADC includes a detection module, a first P-type metal oxide semiconductor (PMOS) transistor, a first N-type metal oxide semiconductor (NMOS) transistor, a first switch unit, and an output module. The first PMOS transistor and the first NMOS transistor form an inverter. The first switch unit is disposed between the input terminal and the output terminal of the inverter and is turned on/off according to a first control signal. The output module is coupled to the output terminal of the inverter for counting the time that an input voltage is greater than a reference voltage and generating a digital signal.
US07659842B2 Quantization error reduction in PWM full-MASH converters
Techniques for reducing quantization error in electronic components are described herein.
US07659830B1 Method and apparatus for visual silent alarm indicator
An apparatus and method thereof wherein a portable computer system or personal digital assistant generates a visual signal in response to an occurrence of a programmed event. For example, the portable computer system can use a light emitting diode to visually signal an alarm at a specified time. The visual signal can be varied in order to indicate the type of event associated with the alarm. In one implementation, the visual signal blinks at a particular rate depending on the type of event. In another implementation, the visual signal blinks a prescribed number of times or according to a particular pattern depending on the type of event. When enabled, the visual signal is generated in lieu of an audible signal, thus providing to the user a silent alarm that does not disturb other people in proximity, such as in a meeting, a theater, or some other gathering.
US07659826B2 System for remotely monitoring a user
A subscription system and corresponding method of operation for monitoring user's well being is disclosed. The method includes the steps of providing, at a user monitor module, a first indicator for the user well being; providing, at a receiving module operably coupled to the user monitor module, a first threshold for the first indicator; receiving, at the receiving module, the first indication; comparing the first indication and the first threshold; generating a secondary indication when the comparison indicates that the first indication equals or exceeds the first threshold; receiving, at a supervisory module coupled to the receiver module, the secondary indication; and informing a supervisor that the first threshold has been reached.
US07659824B2 Sanitizer dispensers with compliance verification
A system is provided for providing compliance verification of sanitizer use from a sanitizer dispenser. The system provides for identifying individual users of one or more sanitizer dispensers through technologies such as RFID. Individual's use of sanitizer dispensers is monitored to determine compliance with sanitizer use requirements. A compliance report may be generated based on data associated with one or more individuals' use of the sanitizer dispenser(s). Additionally, the sanitizer dispenser may identify containers having authorized sanitizer.
US07659813B2 Asset performance optimization
Included are embodiments for asset management. At least one embodiment of a method includes receiving, at a performance assessment and optimization center, data from at least one asset, the asset being configured to service an environment and performing at least one calculation, from the received data, to determine whether the asset is operating properly. Some embodiments include in response to a determination that the at least one asset is not operating properly, providing an indication related to operation of the asset.
US07659810B2 Speed exceeded notification device for vehicle having a data bus and associated methods
A speed exceeded notification device is for a vehicle of a type including a vehicle data communications bus extending throughout the vehicle, and at least one vehicle device generating data related to vehicle speed on the vehicle data communications bus. The speed exceeded notification device may include a wireless communications device, and a controller to be coupled to the vehicle data communications bus. The controller may be for reading the data related to vehicle speed from the vehicle data communications bus, and determining when a vehicle speed exceeds a speed threshold for a first time period. The controller may also be for determining when the vehicle speed exceeds the speed threshold for a second time period less than the first time period and, in response thereto, generating a local vehicle speed exceeded notification. Based thereon, the controller may cooperate with the wireless communications device to send a remote vehicle speed exceeded notification.
US07659804B2 High voltage/high current fuse
A fuse for a high voltage/high current application, such as a hydro-electric vehicle (“HEV”) application is provided. The fuse employs a variety of arc quenching features to handle a large amount of arcing energy that is generated when such fuse is opened due to a fuse opening event. In one embodiment, an insulative substrate, such as a melamine substrate, is metallized with a fuse element. The fuse element extends to multiple surfaces of the substrate. A fuse opening portion of the element is located so that the arcing energy is forced to travel along multiple insulative planes, increasing an impedance across the opening of the element and decreasing the likelihood of a sustained arc. Also, the substrate and element are disposed in a sealed housing, which is packed in one embodiment with an arc quenching material, such as sand.
US07659799B2 Dielectric waveguide filter with cross-coupling
Provided is a dielectric waveguide filter. The filter includes: a multi-layered structure of dielectric substrates having first and second ground planes at its top and bottom; first, second, and third waveguide resonators disposed at multiple layers within the multi-layered structure; converters for signal transition between input/output ports and the first and third waveguide resonators; first vias for forming the first, second, and third waveguide resonators; and second vias disposed at a boundary surface of the first waveguide resonator and the third waveguide resonator.
US07659797B2 Low-leakage EMC filter
EMC filter, connectable between a supply network and an electric operated appliance to reduce conduction noise between said supply network and said appliance, comprising one voltage regulator having an output terminal whose potential is kept close to the earth potential, in order to reduce the voltage drop, at mains frequency, across a “Y” capacitor or an active shunt module. In this way the leakage current to earth is sensibly reduced. The device of the invention is especially useful in corner-earthed three-phase lines or in conjunction with RCD devices.
US07659791B2 Double comb guard trace pattern for reducing the far-end cross-talk and printed circuit board including the pattern
Provided is a guard trace pattern reducing far-end crosstalk and a printed circuit board having the guard trace pattern. The guard trace pattern includes a first guard trace pattern parallel with two signal lines and a plurality of second guard trace patterns perpendicular to the first guard trace pattern to increase mutual capacitance between the two signal lines and the guard trace pattern and increase mutual capacitance between the two signal lines. The printed circuit board includes the aforementioned guard trace pattern disposed between micro strip transmission lines. A characteristic impedance of the guard trace pattern is different from a characteristic impedance of the micro strip transmission lines, and resistances having the same value as a resistance component value of the characteristic impedance of the guard trace pattern are provided to both ends of the guard trace pattern.
US07659785B2 Voltage controlled oscillator and PLL having the same
A Voltage Controlled Oscillator (VCO) includes a plurality of oscillation units connected in cascade to form a chain; and a plurality of current source sections operatively connected to the oscillation units, the current source sections each being configured to control current provided to the oscillation units, wherein each of the current source sections includes: at least one fixed current source configured to perform a current control of a corresponding oscillation unit by using a fixed voltage; and at least one variable current source configured to perform a current control of the corresponding oscillation unit by using a variable voltage.
US07659774B2 Filter circuit
The present invention addresses a need for reducing the power consumption in a baseband filter used in a front-end wireless receiver while providing the necessary linearity. In particular, relatively high linearity can be obtained with lower power consumption than has heretofore been the case. This is achieved in embodiments of the invention using an optimized single-branch fully differential structure which operates as a “composite” source-follower (when using CMOS devices) with an ideal unitary dc gain. A positive feedback internal to the source follower allows one to synthesize two complex-poles.
US07659767B2 Boost circuit and level shifter
A level shifter including a first boost circuit, an inverter, a second boost circuit and a level shift circuit is disclosed. The first boost circuit receives an input signal, and a first amplification factor for the input signal is determined based on a control signal. The inverter receives the input signal to generate an inverted input signal. The second boost circuit is coupled to an output terminal of the inverter to receive the inverted input signal, and a second amplification factor for the inverted input signal is determined based on the control signal. The level shift circuit has a first input terminal and a second input terminal respectively coupled to output terminals of the first boost circuit and second boost circuit to change the voltage level of output signals from the first boost circuit and second boost circuit to a first voltage level.
US07659764B2 Efficient delay elements
Circuits, methods, and apparatus for delaying signals in a power and area efficient manner are provided. A gating element within a stage of a programmable delay element suppresses an operation of other stages of the delay element. A programmable delay has components with differing delays that may be combined to give flexibility in choices for delay increments while minimizing the area of the delay element. A delay element is shared between different signal paths, for example, to reduce the number of delay elements or to allow utilizing unused delay elements of other signal paths.
US07659763B2 Conditioning input buffer for clock interpolation
A conditioning buffer is provided for a clock interpolator that controls the duration of the clock edges to achieve high-linearity interpolation. The conditioning buffer includes a first buffer and a second buffer, with a fixed or variable strength, that receive their respective inputs from a set of mutually delayed clock signals, such as a set of N equidistant clock phases with mutual delay of 360/N degrees, to form a two-tap transversal filter that is insensitive to changes in Process, Temperature, and Voltage (PVT). Use of an equidistant set of clock phases makes the time constant of such transversal filter proportional to the clock period thus making it insensitive to changes in clock frequency as well. Such transversal filtering action operated in conjunction with natural bandwidth limitations of the buffers yields an efficient clock conditioning circuit that is highly insensitive to PVT and clock frequency variations.
US07659757B2 Glitch-free clock regeneration circuit
A clock regeneration circuit and method including an asynchronous clock signal input to a meta-stability filtering circuit, a synchronous clock signal input to the meta-stability filtering circuit with a frequency lower than the asynchronous clock signal, and being over-sampled and rate adapted to the asynchronous clock signal, an edge detector detecting an edge of the output of the meta-stability filtering circuit, a regenerated clock signal output therefrom, and a clock regeneration stage receiving an input that is the edge-detected output.
US07659746B2 Distributed supply current switch circuits for enabling individual power domains
An integrated circuit includes multiple power domains. Supply current switch circuits (SCSCs) are distributed across each power domain. When a signal is present on a control node within a SCSC, the SCSC couples a local supply bus of the power domain to a global supply bus. An enable signal path extends through the SCSCs so that an enable signal can be propagated down a chain of SCSCs from control node to control node, thereby turning the SCSCs on one by one. When the domain is to be powered up, a control circuit asserts an enable signal that propagates down a first chain of SCSCs. After a programmable amount of time, the control circuit asserts a second enable signal that propagates down a second chain. By spreading the turning on of SCSCs over time, large currents that would otherwise be associated with coupling the local and global buses together are avoided.
US07659745B1 Variable external interface circuitry on programmable logic device integrated circuits
A programmable logic device (“PLD”) includes circuitry for optionally and variably modifying characteristics of an input signal in any of several respects. Examples of such modifications include AC coupling the signal into the PLD, low pass filtering the signal (with selectable low-pass filter corner frequency), shifting the common voltage of the input signal, and/or subjecting the input signal to a selectable amount of attenuation.
US07659742B1 Vacuum chamber AC/DC probe
Features of non-vacuum AC/DC probe systems are combined with features of the DC vacuum chamber testers to provide an AC/DC probe system that can be used in a vacuum environment, such as a SEM vacuum chamber. Features of the DC vacuum chamber tester are modified to include new op-amp circuitry that provides the AC/DC testing functionality of the non-vacuum chamber systems, resulting in an AC/DC probe system that can be used in a vacuum environment.
US07659741B2 Parallel scan distributors and collectors and process of testing integrated circuits
An integrated circuit (70) having parallel scan paths (824-842, 924-942) includes a pair or pairs of scan distributor (800,900) and scan collector (844,944) circuits. The scan paths apply stimulus test data to functional circuits (702) on the integrated circuit and receive response test data from the functional circuits. A scan distributor circuit (800) receives serial test data from a peripheral bond pad (802) and distributes it to each parallel scan path. A scan collector circuit (844) collects test data from the parallel scan paths and applies it to a peripheral bond pad (866). This enables more parallel scan paths of shorter length to connect to the functional circuits. The scan distributor and collector circuits can be respectively connected in series to provide parallel connections to more parallel scan paths. Additionally multiplexer circuits (886,890) can selectively connect pairs of scan distributor and collector circuits together. The scan distributor and collector circuits can be formed in core circuits (704). The core circuits then can be connected to other core circuits and functional circuits with simple connections to the parallel scan circuits through the scan distributor and collector circuits.
US07659736B2 Mechanically reconfigurable vertical tester interface for IC probing
A wafer test assembly includes multiple probe head substrates arranged like tiles with connectors attached to one side and probes supported on the opposing side. In one embodiment, flexible cable connectors directly connect the connectors on the probe head tile to a test head, while in another embodiment the flexible cables connect the probe head tile to a PCB providing horizontal routing to test head connectors. In one embodiment, leveling pins provide a simplified support structure connecting to a retaining element attached to the tiles to provide for applying a push-pull leveling force. A test head connector interface frame enables rearrangement of connectors between the test head and the probe card to provide for both full wafer contact or partial wafer contact. The test head connectors are rearranged by being slidable on rails, or pluggable and unpluggable enabling movement over a range of positions.
US07659731B2 Liquid properties sensor circuit
A sensor circuit is coupled to a sensing element for determining a property, such as a dielectric constant, of a fuel. The circuit includes an excitation voltage signal generator, a synchronization trigger and a processing circuit configured to generate an output signal indicative of the fuel property. The excitation signal is applied to the sensing element to produce an induced current signal. The synchronization trigger generates a trigger signal when the excitation signal crosses zero volts, at which time the real (resistive) component of the induced current signal is zero. The induced signal is therefore wholly representative of the imaginary component attributable to a capacitance of the fuel, which in turn is dependent on the dielectric constant (and thus ethanol concentration) of the fuel blend. The processing circuit is configured to sample the induced signal in response to the trigger signal and produce the output signal.
US07659723B2 Broadband resistivity interpretation
Resistivity measurements are made at a plurality of frequencies. An asymptotic high-frequency limit is determined and the electrical efficiency is estimated as a ratio of the high frequency resistivity limit to the low frequency resistivity. From the electrical efficiency, petrophysical parameters of a rock such as porosity and water saturation can be estimated.
US07659714B2 Abnormality detection apparatus for rotary type absolute encoder
In order to cope with many rotor diameters using a single type of stator portion, two stator portions, each having a built-in signal processing circuit for detecting absolute positions independently, are disposed in opposition at positions which differ from each other with respect to a rotational center of a rotor portion. When one of the stator portions receives a request command RX from an external device, it transmits a detected serial communication signal. The other stator portion receives the transmitted serial communication signal, determines a position detection abnormality, and notifies the abnormality to the external device when a difference between the received absolute position and the absolute position detected by the other stator portion exceeds a deviation previously set for 180 degrees.
US07659710B2 Electrical measuring instrument having a current clamp measures the current while detached from and attached to the housing
A current clamp meter having a current meter body and a detachable current clamp. The current meter body and the current clamp are configured so that the current clamp is detachable from the current meter body and the meter is operable with the current clamp either attached to the current meter body or detached from the current meter body.
US07659693B2 Rechargeable battery
The invention relates to a rechargeable battery with a battery housing having a rear wall with a recess which extends as far as an end wall of the battery housing and has a base side and narrow sides facing each other, the base side continuing via a step into the outer side of the rear wall, and a contact assembly which is covered by a cover extending from the step being positioned at the step. In order to further develop the battery so that when the battery is connected to an electrical appliance the contact assembly is protected against splash water, it is proposed, in accordance with the invention, that the cover form a contact housing which completely surrounds the contact assembly in circumferential direction and has on its side facing away from the step an insertion opening surrounded by a circumferential rim of the contact housing, which forms a sealing surface.
US07659688B2 Method and system for resolver alignment in electric motor system
Methods and systems are provided for aligning a resolver in an electric motor system. The method includes commanding a d-axis current command and a speed command, operating an electric motor without a load in response to the d-axis current command and the speed command, determining a rotor speed in response to the speed command, and determining an offset of the resolver based on the speed command and the rotor speed when the rotor speed has substantially stabilized.
US07659685B2 Method of estimating the state of a system and relative device for estimating position and speed of the rotor of a brushless motor
A method for estimating the state of a system, as well as an extended Kalman filter (EKF), allows nonlinear mathematical models to be used for describing the system. Accurate precision is provided since the method is based on an EKF technique while using a filter that implements a first degree Stirling approximation formula. The method may be used for estimating position and speed of a brushless motor, and may be implemented in a relative device. Such a device may be introduced in a control loop of a brushless motor of a power steering system for a vehicle to provide a countering torque on the steering wheel based on speed of the vehicle and a steering angle of the vehicle.
US07659682B2 Servo motor controlling method
A servo motor controlling method includes: directly or indirectly detecting a position of a moving body which performs a circular-arc interpolation feeding motion by a servo motor; performing a feedback control for enabling the position of the moving body to comply with a position command; and at a quadrant changing time when a moving direction of the moving body is changed, performing torque correction on a torque command value according to a distance from a position where the moving direction is changed. By this method, a quadrant protrusion and a torque change with respect to a friction caused from a free zone at a time of reversion of a ball screw can be appropriately corrected. Especially, by performing a first torque correction for a static friction at the position where the moving direction is changed, and by performing a second torque correction for a moving friction after movement by the distance corresponding to the free zone, more appropriate correction can be obtained.
US07659679B2 System and method for adjusting a dead-time interval in a motor control circuit
A system and a method for adjusting a dead-time interval between de-activating a first transistor and activating a second transistor in a motor control circuit are provided. The method includes determining a plurality of commanded torque values associated with a motor based on a received signal over time. The method further includes setting the dead-time interval value equal to a first value when one commanded torque value of the plurality of commanded torque values is within a first torque range. The method further includes decreasing the dead-time interval value as other commanded torque values of the plurality of commanded torque values increase over time within a second torque range. The second torque range is greater than the first torque range. The dead-time interval value is indicative of a desired dead-time interval.
US07659668B2 Plasma display device
A plasma display device having a panel main body in which a pair of transparent substrates is arranged in opposition so as to form a discharge space between the substrates on at least a front side, barrier ribs are arranged on at least one of the substrates to divide the discharge space into a plurality of spaces, a group of electrodes is arranged on the substrates so as to generate discharge in the discharge space divided with the barrier ribs, and phosphor layers that emit by discharge are provided, in which the phosphor layers are equipped with a green phosphor layer including at least a mixture of Zn2SiO4:Mn and (Y, Gd)BO3:Tb, the surface of the Zn2SiO4:Mn is coated with magnesium oxide, and the ratio of the Mg element to the Si element on the surface measured with an XPS apparatus is 0.7 to 6.0.
US07659646B2 Outer rotor superconductor journal bearing
An outer rotor superconductor journal bearing that comprising modules and including an outer rotor superconductor journal bearing that cools a superconductor that is mechanically fixed to a module below a critical temperature, attains a strong magnetic fixing force in an axial direction and a radial direction, prevents the superconductor from being damaged due to a different thermal expansion between the superconductor and a cryostat when cooled, and is easier for assembling and repair and maintenance. Preferably, the outer rotor superconductor journal bearing includes a rotor in which a solid of revolution magnet is magnetized in an axis direction in an inner portion of an inner circumference thereof; and a stator comprising a cryostat in the shape of a cylinder in which a superconductor that is tightly adhered to an inner circumference of the rotor is mounted in an outer circumference of the cryostat.
US07659640B1 Power over network methods and systems
Methods and systems for providing electrical power over a network configured to facilitate digital communications are described herein. In different aspects, the methods and systems may include a service provider network module configured to facilitate digital communications and having an autonomous power supply, and a network connection device operably connected to the service provider network module. The network connection device may include at least one network connection port configured to receive electrical power; and a power switching module coupled to the at least one network connection port and configured to switch from a primary power source to enable the network connection device to receive electrical power from the service provider network module via the at least one network connection port when electrical power from the primary power source is interrupted.
US07659633B2 Solder joint flip chip interconnection having relief structure
A flip chip interconnect has a tapering interconnect structure, and the area of contact of the interconnect structure with the site on the substrate metallization is less than the area of contact of the interconnect structure with the die pad. A solder mask has an opening over the interconnect site, and the solder mask makes contact with the interconnect structure, or is in close proximity to the interconnect structure, at the margin of the opening. The flip chip interconnect is provided with an underfill. During the underfill process, the contact (or near proximity) of the solder mask with the interconnect structure interferes with flow of the underfill material toward the substrate adjacent the site, resulting in formation of a void left unfilled by the underfill, adjacent the contact of the interconnect structure with the site on the substrate metallization. The void can help provide relief from strain induced by changes in temperature of the system.
US07659631B2 Interconnection between different circuit types
A hybrid-scale electronic circuit, an internal electrical connection and a method of electrically interconnecting employ an interconnect having a tapered shape to electrically connect between different-scale circuits. The interconnect has a first end with an end dimension that is larger than an end dimension of an opposite, second end of the interconnect. The larger first end of the interconnect connects to an electrical contact of a micro-scale circuit and the second end of the interconnect connects to an electrical contact of a nano-scale circuit.
US07659630B2 Interconnect structures with interlayer dielectric
The present invention relates to metallic interconnect having an interlayer dielectric thereover, the metallic interconnect having an upper surface substantially free from oxidation. The metallic interconnect may have an exposed upper surface thereon that is passivated by a nitrogen containing compound.
US07659622B2 Trace design to minimize electromigration damage to solder bumps
A design methodology reduces electromigration in integrated circuit joints such as flip-chip bumps by seeking to produce a more uniform current distribution at the interface between the integrated circuit pad and the joint while maintaining an interface form that coincides with standard integrated circuit designs is presented. The design methodology addresses the current distribution at the pad by dividing current carrying traces into a plurality of sub-traces with known resistances such that each sub-trace distributes a known amount of current to the pad of the integrated circuit. The multiple sub-traces connect to the pad and are placed to obtain a desired uniformity in the incoming current distribution. Width and/or length adjustments could be made to each of the plurality of sub-traces to obtain the desired resistances.
US07659611B2 Vertical power semiconductor component, semiconductor device and methods for the production thereof
A vertical power semiconductor component (1) having a top side (3) and a rear side (4) is provided. The top side (3) has at least one first electrode contact area (8) and at least one control electrode area (9) and the rear side (4) has a second electrode contact area (7). A first metallization (10) having a thickness a is arranged on the first electrode contact area (8). A second metallization (11) having a thickness b is arranged on the control electrode area (9). A third metallization (6) having a thickness c is arranged on the second electrode contact area (7). The thickness a of the first metallization (10) is at least 10 times thicker than the thickness b of the second metallization (11).
US07659598B2 Semiconductor ground shield
A ground shield is disclosed that includes a ‘cheesed’ metal positioned within a dielectric layer and a metal region positioned within a first metal level over the cheesed metal. The ground shield can have different forms depending on the metal used, and provisions are made to prevent diffusion of copper (Cu) when that is used as the metal in the cheese metal of the ground shield. The ground shield provides a low resistance, very thick metal at a first metal (M1) level for passive RF elements in conjunction with the standard back-end-of-line (BEOL) integration. The invention also includes a method of forming the ground shield.
US07659595B2 Embedded bonding pad for backside illuminated image sensor
The present disclosure provide a microelectronic device. The microelectronic device includes a sensing element formed in the semiconductor substrate; a trench isolation feature formed in the semiconductor substrate; a bonding pad formed at least partially in the trench isolation feature; and interconnect features formed over the sensing element and the trench isolation feature, being coupled to the sensing element and the bonding pad, and isolated from each other by interlayer dielectric.
US07659591B2 Apparatus having a layer of material configured as a reservoir having an interior capable of holding a liquid
The present invention provides an apparatus. The apparatus, in one embodiment, includes an actuator located over a substrate, a movable feature located over and coupled to the actuator, and a layer of material located above the actuator and movable feature and not constituting part of a beam/spring associated with the movable feature, the layer of material configured as a reservoir having an interior capable of holding a liquid, the movable feature being exposed to the interior.
US07659573B2 Semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the same
A semiconductor device includes a semiconductor substrate, source and drain regions formed on the semiconductor substrate, a recess channel that is formed on the inner surface of a recess region, which is formed on the semiconductor substrate between the source and drain regions, and in an epitaxial semiconductor film in which dopants are doped. The semiconductor device further includes a gate insulating film formed on the recess channel, and a gate electrode that fills the recess region and is formed on the gate insulating film.
US07659555B2 Light-emitting diode
A light-emitting diode (LED) and a method for manufacturing the same are described. The light-emitting diode has a metal substrate, a first transparent conductive layer, a first contact layer, and an illuminating epitaxial structure stacked in sequence. An ohmic contact layer is located on a portion of the illuminating epitaxial structure. A thickness of the metal substrate is greater than 40 μm. The first contact layer is a doped strained-layer-superlattices (SLS) structure. Additionally, the light-emitting diode can further be a reflective layer located between the metal substrate and the first transparent conductive layer.
US07659540B2 Materials for electroluminescence and the utilization thereof
The present invention relates to organic semiconductors which contain structural units L=X and in addition structural units which emit light from the triplet state. The materials according to the invention are more soluble and easier to synthesize and are therefore more suitable for use in organic light-emitting diodes than comparative materials in accordance with the prior art.
US07659539B2 Semiconductor device including a floating gate memory cell with a superlattice channel
A semiconductor device may include a semiconductor substrate and at least one non-volatile memory cell. The at least one memory cell may include spaced apart source and drain regions, and a superlattice channel including a plurality of stacked groups of layers on the semiconductor substrate between the source and drain regions. Each group of layers of the superlattice channel may include a plurality of stacked base semiconductor monolayers defining a base semiconductor portion and an energy band-modifying layer thereon, which may include at least one non-semiconductor monolayer constrained within a crystal lattice of adjacent base semiconductor portions. A floating gate may be adjacent the superlattice channel, and a control gate may be adjacent the second gate insulating layer.
US07659538B2 Layered composite film incorporating a quantum dot shift register
Quantum dots are positioned within a layered composite film to produce one-dimensional and multi-dimensional shift registers within the film. Charge carriers are driven into the quantum dots by energy in connected control paths. The charge carriers are trapped in the quantum dots through quantum confinement, such that the charge carriers form artificial atoms, which serve as dopants for the surrounding materials. The atomic number of each artificial atom is adjusted through precise variations in the voltage across the quantum dot that confines it. The position of the artificial atom in the film is moved by varying the location of confinement and thus operates as a shift register.
US07659526B2 Apparatus and method for controlled particle beam manufacturing
A chamber for exposing a workpiece to charged particles includes a charged particle source for generating a stream of charged particles, a collimator configured to collimate and direct the stream of charged particles from the charged particle source along an axis, a beam digitizer downstream of the collimator configured to create a digital beam including groups of at least one charged particle by adjusting longitudinal spacing between the charged particles along the axis, a deflector downstream of the beam digitizer including a series of deflection stages disposed longitudinally along the axis to deflect the digital beams, and a workpiece stage downstream of the deflector configured to hold the workpiece.
US07659525B2 Apparatus for and method of recording image
An image recording apparatus (1) causes a recording head (20) to move through a distance corresponding to one half of the recording width of the recording head (20) in a sub-scanning direction each time a recording drum (10) makes one rotation. This, light emitting devices (23, 24) record two line data in advance, and thereafter following light emitting devices (21, 22) record the same line data repeatedly at the same position. This increases the energy of laser light beams given to a recording position on a printing plate (P) to accomplish the recording of an image with reliability. The recording speed is not extremely decreased because not all light emitting devices (21 to 24) are used to make the repeated recordings at the same position on the printing plate (P). Further, the construction of optical systems and driving systems in the image recording apparatus is not complicated.
US07659522B2 Method of purifying the used O-18 enriched cyclotron target water and apparatus for the same
A method of purifying the used O-18 enriched cyclotron target water contaminated by the various organic compounds, the method including: supplying gaseous oxygen into the target water to be purified; irradiating UV rays having wavelengths of 254 nm and 185 nm on the target water; and releasing the gases generated during the purification oxidation process.
US07659521B2 System for taking wide-field beam-eye-view (BEV) x-ray-images simultaneously to the proton therapy delivery
A system for an intensity-modulated proton therapy of a predetermined target volume within an object includes a proton source to generate a proton beam, a number of proton beam forming units and a beam nozzle having an outlet for the proton beam to penetrate the predetermined target volume of the object, thereby defining a cross sectional scanning exit area. The system includes further a beam bending magnet disposed upstream of the nozzle, and an x-ray tube and an x-ray imager. The x-ray tube is associated with an irradiation channel within the beam bending magnet, wherein the irradiation channel is oriented along the prolongation of the nominal proton beam direction thereby delivering the x-ray beam along the proton beam direction.
US07659511B2 Image pickup apparatus, image display system, and method for controlling the image pickup apparatus
An image pickup apparatus includes an irradiation unit for radiating, to an object, light having a plurality of wavelength regions, and an image pickup unit for picking up an image that is obtained when the light having the wavelength regions is radiated by the irradiation unit and an image that is obtained when the light is not radiated by the irradiation unit. Based on both images, a wavelength region from among the wavelength regions is determined in which the intensity of external light is low. The irradiation unit is then controlled to radiate light having an increased emission intensity for the light having the wavelength region in which the intensity of external light is low.
US07659507B2 Automatic method of axial adjustments in electron beam system
Axial adjustments of an aberration corrector are made roughly. Whenever plural values of voltage are applied to an electrode in the first stage of the corrector, a different value of voltage is applied to the electrodes in the stage whose center is passed through by the reference orbit in the aberration corrector. At this time, a scanning deflector scans the electron beam over a specimen, producing a scanned image signal. Based on the scanned image signal, the amounts of positional deviations of the image are calculated. Based on the calculated amounts of positional deviations and on the voltages applied to the electrode in the first stage, an optimum value of voltage is calculated and fed back to the electrode in the first stage of the corrector.
US07659505B2 Ion source vessel and methods
An ion source and method for providing ionized particles to a molecular/atomic analyser, such as a mass spectrometer, are disclosed. The ion source includes a vessel defining a channel; a gas inlet extending from the gas source into the channel, for introducing a gas flow into the channel; a sample inlet extending into the channel for introducing sample within the channel; and an ionizer to ionize the sample in the channel. The vessel is sufficiently sealed to allow the channel to be pressurized, at a pressure in excess of 100 Torr. At least one gas source maintains the pressure of the channel at a pressure in excess of 100 Torr and the pressure exterior to the channel at a pressure in excess of 0.1 Torr and provides a gas flow that sweeps across the ionizer to guide and entrain ions from the ionizer to the outlet.
US07659503B2 Image sensor module and light guiding member used for the same
An image sensor module includes a light source, a light guide elongated in a first direction, a reflector covering the guide, and a light receiver for linear light reflected on a reading target in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The guide includes an incident surface for entering light from the light source, a reflecting portion for reflecting, in a direction crossing the first direction, the light from the incident surface, and a surface for emitting light from the reflecting portion as linear light elongated in the first direction. The reflector has an opening and an inclined surface. The opening extends in the first direction to pass the light reflected by the target. The inclined surface, at an end of the opening in the first direction, has a normal which is non-parallel to the first direction and a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions.
US07659496B2 Light emitting device and control method thereof
A light emitting device includes at least one light emitting unit, a switching unit, a comparator unit, a charge storage unit and a sensing unit. The switching unit is electrically connected to the light emitting unit. The comparator unit is electrically connected to the switching unit. The charge storage unit is electrically connected to the comparator unit and stores an amount of electric charges. The sensing unit has a light sensing circuit and is electrically connected to the charge storage unit. The light sensing circuit senses a light intensity of the light emitting unit. The sensing unit adjusts the amount of the electric charges and a voltage corresponding to the amount of the electric charges according to the light intensity. The comparator unit compares the voltage with a threshold voltage. The switching unit controls the light emitting unit in accordance with the result of the comparison.
US07659495B2 Auto darkening eye protection device having a regulated solar power supply
An auto darkening eye protection device including a shutter assembly, a control circuit, and a power supply. The control circuit includes a sensing circuit for sensing the occurrence of welding, and a delivery circuit to provide signals to the shutter assembly to cause the shutter assembly to transition to the dark state. The power supply supplying power to the control circuit and the delivery circuit. The power supply including a power regulation circuit, and a solar power supply supplying electrical power to the power regulation circuit and the sensing circuit. The power regulation circuit limiting the voltage of the solar power supply to a predetermined voltage to provide a stable reference voltage.
US07659494B2 Laser target seeker device
A laser target seeker device arranged to receive a laser beam reflected from an object. Detector elements are arranged to detect the reflected laser beam. A processor is arranged to determine the received radiation on the respective detector element in order to determine the origin of the laser beam. A diffractor is arranged relative to the detector elements and configured to diffract the reflected laser beam into portions prior to being detected by the detector elements. The detector elements are arranged to detect the respective portion. A flyable body is for hitting a target by means of a laser beam. A system for hitting a target by means of a laser beam. A method for detecting a laser beam reflected from an object. Use of a kinoform member in a laser target seeker for diffracting a laser beam.
US07659493B2 Heating system and method
A fluid heating system includes a fluid receptacle having a fluid reservoir, and a heating control system configured to heat fluid retained within the fluid reservoir. The heating control system includes a processing unit, at least one fluid temperature sensor positioned on or within the fluid receptacle, a heating element configured to heat fluid within the fluid reservoir, and a power switch disposed within an electrical path between the heating element and the processing unit. The processing unit is configured to selectively activate and deactivate the heating element through the power switch based on the fluid temperature detected by the fluid temperature sensor.
US07659488B2 Composite electrode for a plasma arc torch
A plasma arc torch that includes a torch body having a nozzle mounted relative to a composite electrode in the body to define a plasma chamber. The torch body includes a plasma flow path for directing a plasma gas to the plasma chamber in which a plasma arc is formed. The nozzle includes a hollow, body portion and a substantially solid, head portion defining an exit orifice. The composite electrode can be made of a metallic material (e.g., silver) with high thermal conductivity in the forward portion electrode body adjacent the emitting surface, and the aft portion of the electrode body is made of a second low cost, metallic material with good thermal and electrical conductivity. This composite electrode configuration produces an electrode with reduced electrode wear or pitting comparable to a silver electrode, for a price comparable to that of a copper electrode.
US07659485B2 Linear pressure switch apparatus and method
A linear pressure switch is described that has two conductors separated by strips of insulation. The conductors are resilient members that can vary in thickness and material along with the insulation to provide a range of switch sensitivities. The switch can include connectors and an attachment mechanism that facilitates the installation and removal the switch from a given application. In addition, the switch can ergonomically enhanced actuation. The switches can be stacked in layers and selectively have different sensitivities to provide a desired signal output for each switch in a given application. The switch can also include external coatings on the jacket which enhance the feel and resistance of the jacket to wear and misuse.
US07659484B2 Retrofit electronic weighing technology for pallet moving devices
A weighing system for use in retrofitting a pallet handling apparatus to provide weighing functionality. The system comprises a control unit and two fork units. The electronic control unit has a display, an electronic weight calculation controller, and at least one control switch. Each fork unit is for substitution with one fork of the pallet handling apparatus. Each fork unit comprises a rigid frame member having an elongated configuration, a plurality of load cells fixedly connected to the frame member, the load cells being disposed in laterally oriented pairs, and a fork member communicatively connected to the frame and engaging the load cells.
US07659480B2 Vehicle grommet
A grommet is attached between a body panel and a trunk lid at a location spaced from a hinge structure that movably supports the trunk lid. The grommet forms a wiring passageway between an opening in the body panel and an opening in the trunk lid. The grommet includes a body mounting end, a closure panel mounting end, a first flexible section, a second flexible section and a middle flexible section. The first flexible section extends from the body mounting end and the second flexible section extends from the closure panel mounting end. The middle flexible section extends between the first and second flexible sections in a free floating configuration with respect to the hinge structure, with the first and second flexible sections having a more bendable configuration than the middle flexible section.
US07659474B2 Solar cell array with isotype-heterojunction diode
A solar cell array has at least one solar cell including a photovoltaic structure having a sun-facing front face and a back face, and having an active region, and an isotype heterojunction diode connected in electrical parallel with the active region of the photovoltaic structure.
US07659472B2 Method, apparatus, and program for assessing similarity of performance sound
A similarity assessment apparatus is provided for assessing a performance sound based on a model performance sound. In the apparatus, a probability density function generating unit divides data of a performance sound into a sequence of frames each having a predetermined temporal length, and generates a probability density function of a fundamental frequency for each frame of the performance sound. A probability density function providing portion provides a probability density function of a fundamental frequency for each frame of the model performance sound. A similarity assessment unit compares the generated probability density function of a frame of the performance sound with the provided probability density function of a frame of the model performance sound so as to assess a similarity between the performance sound and the model performance sound.
US07659463B2 Viola/violin shoulder rest
A viola/violin shoulder rest includes a first pad and a second pad made of soft foamed plastic material. A retainer is fixed between the first pad and the second pad. Each of the first pad and the second pad is formed with a sound reflection area which is a through hole. The sound reflection area of the first pad is alternatively stuffed with a natural sponge block. The sponge block is selectively coated at its top a gold foil. A number of feet made of silicon gel are fixed on the first pad in delta arrangement. A number of fastening posts are disposed on an upper surface of the retainer. A resilient band extends through where between the retainer and the second pad for the viola/violin player to deliver optimal sound color and quality.
US07659454B1 Soybean variety D5882437
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated D5882437. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety D5882437. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety D5882437 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety D5882437 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods.
US07659449B2 Regulation of gene expression in plants
Isolated stress-responsiveness promoters suitable for directing gene expression in plant cells or plants are provided, along with constructs, vectors, host cells, plant cells and plant comprising the promoters. Methods for producing plant cells or plants with modified phenotype via transformation of the plant cells or plants with the promoters are also provided.
US07659428B2 Methods for producing acylphenylalanine
There is provided a method for producing easily highly-purified acylphenylalanine that is useful as a raw material of pharmaceutical products and the like, which comprises the step of reacting an acid chloride with phenylalanine in a mixed solvent of an organic solvent and water, while keeping the solvent under the alkali condition by using potassium hydroxide.
US07659418B2 Method of preparing organo dialkylalkoxysilane
The invention relates to the preparation of organodialkylalkoxysilane using a continuous method consisting in bringing an alkanol into continuous contact with an omega-haloalkyl dialkylhalosilane in a countercurrent reactor, such as a plate column or a packed column. The reaction is performed in the aforementioned countercurrent reactor in the presence or absence of a non-reactive solvent with scavenging of the hydrochloric acid formed. The omega-haloalkyl dialkylalkoxysilane thus formed is particularly suitable for use as a starting material for the preparation of organosilicon compounds containing sulphur having general formula (I) by means of sulphidisation reaction on an alkaline metal polysulphide.
US07659416B2 Monomolecular conductive complex, conductive self-assembled film and assembly of electrode composed of metal and semiconductor making use of the same
Enediyne compounds of the formula: (1) characterized in that the structure thereof is very simple and the production process is easy, and that the molecular length thereof is shorter than those of compounds having been proposed. Consequently, electrode assemblies comprising any of these enediyne compounds are highly promising in the application to nanomolecular wiring (nanomolecular wire) whose production has been difficult.
US07659405B2 Polymorph of a pharmaceutical
A new crystalline polymorph of ritonavir and methods for its use and preparation are disclosed.
US07659403B2 Biphenyl compounds useful as muscarinic receptor antagonists
The invention provides compounds of formula I: wherein a, b, c, m, n, q, r, W, Z1, Ar1, Z2, Y, R1, R2, and R3 are as defined in the specification. The compounds of formula I are muscarinic receptor antagonists. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds, processes and intermediates for preparing such compounds and methods of using such compounds to treat pulmonary disorders.
US07659401B2 Thiazolo[4,5-C]pyridine derivatives
The invention relates to compounds of general formula I: wherein R1, R2 and R3 are as defined in the description such compounds are metabotropic glutamate receptor antagonists and are useful in the treatment or prevention of mGluR5 receptor mediated disorders.
US07659396B2 Method for the production of phenylalanine derivatives
The invention relates to an improved method for the production of 3-amidino- or 3-guanidinophenylalanine derivatives, especially triisopropylphenyl-sulfonyl-substituted 3-amidino- or 3-guanidinophenylalanine derivatives.
US07659392B2 Method of separation using aromatic thioether ligands
The present invention is a method of separating nucleic acid molecules from contaminants, such as proteins, in a solution and isolating one or more desired nucleic acid molecules, which method comprises the following steps (a) providing an aqueous adsorption solution, which includes nucleic acids and a salt that forms lyotropic ions when dissolved; (b) passing said solution over a matrix to adsorb the nucleic acids onto the matrix, said matrix including an aromatic ring moiety and at least one thioether moiety; (c) passing an aqueous eluent over said matrix to desorb the nucleic acid molecules therefrom, which eluent includes a salt that forms lyotropic ions and a gradient of increasing ionic strength originating from an increasing concentration of a salt that forms less lyotropic ions when dissolved than the ones present in said aqueous adsorption solution; and (d) isolating a fraction comprising the desired nucleic acid molecules.
US07659382B2 Methods and compositions for the treatment and prevention of HIV infection using TRIM5α
The invention provides novel TRIM polypeptides, proteins, and nucleic acid molecules. In addition to isolated, full-length TRIM proteins, the invention further provides isolated TRIM fusion proteins, antigenic peptides and anti-TRIM antibodies. The invention also provides TRIM nucleic acid molecules, recombinant expression vectors containing a nucleic acid molecule of the invention, host cells into which the expression vectors have been introduced and non-human transgenic animals in which an TRIM gene has been introduced or disrupted. The present invention also provides methods and compositions for the diagnosis and treatment of viral infection and/or replication, e.g., HIV infection. The invention further provides methods for identifying a compound capable of treating or preventing viral infection and/or replication, e.g., HIV infection and AIDS. In addition, the invention provides a method for treating a subject having a viral infection and/or replication, e.g., HIV infection using the modulators of the invention.
US07659378B2 Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) binding antibody
The present invention provides a family of binding proteins that bind and neutralize the activity of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), in particular human HGF. The binding proteins can be used as diagnostic and/or therapeutic agents. With regard to their therapeutic activity, the binding proteins can be used to treat certain HGF responsive disorders, for example, certain HGF responsive tumors.
US07659366B2 Peptide with putative role in cytoskeletal protection
The invention relates to a novel peptide conjugate useful for stabilizing the actin cytoskeleton of mammalian cells. More particularly, the invention relates to a conjugate of a peptide found within the sequence of a bacterium's major outer sheath protein and bovine serum albumin (BSA), and the use of this conjugate for stabilizing the actin cytoskeleton of mammalian cells, and for preventing or controlling the migration of mammalian cells.
US07659365B2 Telechelic homopolyamino acids functionalized with hydrophobic groups, and their applications, especially therapeutic applications
The invention relates to novel materials based on biodegradable homopolyamino acids and which can be used for the vectorization of (an) active ingredient(s) (AI). The invention also relates to novel pharmaceutical, cosmetic, dietetic or phytosanitaty compositions based on homopolyamino acids. The invention can produce a novel polymer raw material which can be used for the vectoiization of Al that can optimally be: biocompatible, biodegradable, capable of becoming easily associated with a large number of active ingredients or solubilizing them and releasing the active ingredients in vivo. According to the present invention, which primarily relates to linear homopolyamino acids having aspartic or glutamic units and whose attachments can include hydrophobic groups having 8-30 carbon atoms. The homopolymers are amphiphilic and anionic and can easily be transformed at low cost into particles for the vectorization of active ingredients. The particles can form stable aqueous colloidal suspensions.
US07659358B2 Binders containing ortho ester groups
A process for preparing polymers containing polyortho ester groups and optionally NCO groups by reacting A) and B) where A) is a polyortho ester containing at least one isocyanate-reactive group prepared by reacting at least one or more acyclic ortho esters with low molecular weight polyols having a functionality of 4-8 and a number-average molecular weight of 80-500 g/mol and B) is least one polyisocyanate. The polymers obtained from the process can be used to produce coatings, adhesive bonds and/or seals. The coating compositions can include one or more of the above-described polymers, optionally polyisocyanates, catalysts, and optionally auxiliaries and additives and can be used to coat substrates.
US07659347B2 Fluorine-containing elastomer composition and molded article comprising the same
The present invention provides a fluorine-containing elastomer composition excellent in heat resistance, comprising a fluorine-containing elastomer containing a vinylidene fluoride unit, which is capable of a crosslinking reaction, and a crosslinking agent. The present invention also provides a molded article, a sealing material, and a sealing material for an oxygen sensor excellent in heat resistance, which comprises the composition. The present invention is a fluorine-containing elastomer composition comprising (A) at least one compound selected form the group consisting of a compound containing at least two crosslinking reaction group s represented by the general formula (1), a compound represented by the general formula (2), a compound represented by the general formula (3) and a compound represented by the general formula (4); and (B) a fluorine-containing elastomer capable of a crosslinking reaction with the compound (A), comprising a vinylidene fluoride unit.
US07659324B2 Dental materials with improved compatibility
Dental materials which contain a radically polymerizable organic binder, at least one radical polymerization initiator and at least one radical polymerization accelerator, both the initiator and the accelerator each having at least one radically polymerizable group.
US07659321B2 Photoinitiator anchored to silicate and use thereof to prepare polymer exfoliated silicate nanocomposite
Photoinitiator modified silicate and ethylenically unsaturated monomer are reacted in solvent to cause living polymerization of monomer and exfoliation of silicate layers and cause attachment of silicate layers to polymer chains, thereby providing dispersed homopolymer or block copolymer silicate nanocomposites.
US07659320B2 Method for extracting nylon from waste materials
The invention relates to a method for recovering nylon from a nylon-containing material by contacting the nylon-containing material with an alkanol-containing solvent at elevated temperature and at a pressure higher than the equilibrium pressure of the alkanol-containing solvent at the elevated temperature, thereby dissolving the nylon in the alkanol-containing solvent, removing the alkanol-containing solvent containing dissolved nylon from any undissolved solids, and decreasing the temperature of the alkanol-containing solvent containing dissolved nylon to precipitate the dissolved nylon.
US07659319B2 Sulfonated poly(phenylene sulfide) films as polyelectrolyte membranes
Proton conducting membranes are made of sulfonated films comprising poly(arylene sulfide), an olefinic polymer, and an elastomer. They are used in PEM fuel cells operating at temperatures above 95° C., or at low relative humidity. According to methods of the invention, sulfonated poly(phenylene sulfide) (SPPS) films are provided with a wide range of physical properties, which depend in part on the ion exchange capacity of the films. In particular, the degree or level of sulfonation can be tailored by adjusting reaction conditions such as temperature and time.
US07659318B2 Polymer membrane for fuel cell, method of preparing the same, membrane-electrode assembly including the same, and fuel cell system including the same
The present invention relates to a polymer electrolyte membrane for a fuel cell, a method for manufacturing the polymer electrolyte membrane, a membrane-electrode assembly for a fuel cell including the polymer electrolyte membrane, and a fuel cell system including the membrane-electrode assembly. The polymer electrolyte membrane includes a proton-conductive polymer membrane including a polymer micelle inside a hydrophilic channel. Herein, the micelle includes a vinyl-based polymer obtained from polymerization of a vinyl-based monomer and an anionic surfactant surrounding the vinyl-based polymer.
US07659310B2 Methods of enhancing solubility of agents
This invention concerns novel methods of enhancing the solubility of a compound. Compositions prepared using such methods are also disclosed. Compositions prepared using the methods have various advantages over conventionally known compositions.
US07659308B2 Concentricolide and its derivatives, process for preparing them, pharmaceutical composition comprising the same and its use
The present invention relates to concentricolide and its derivatives, a method for the preparation of the compound and its derivatives, a pharmaceutical composition containing concentricolide and its derivatives, and use of the compound and its derivatives for the treatment and prevention of infection caused by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
US07659297B2 Tetrahydronaphthalene derivatives, process for their production and their use as anti-inflammatory agents
The invention relates to multiply-substituted tetrahydronaphthalene derivatives of formula (I) process for their production and their use as antiinflammatory agents.
US07659294B2 2-(aryl)azacyclylmethyl carboxylates, sulfonates, phosphonates, phosphinates and heterocycles as S1P receptor agonists
The present invention encompasses compounds of Formula I: as well as the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. The compounds are S1P1/Edg1 receptor agonists and thus have immunosuppressive, anti-inflammatory and hemostatic activities by modulating leukocyte trafficking, sequestering lymphocytes in secondary lymphoid tissues, and enhancing vascular integrity. The invention is also directed to pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds and methods of treatment or prevention.
US07659293B2 α-Amino-N-hydroxy-acetamide derivatives
The invention relates to α-amino-N-hydroxy-acetamide derivatives of formula I, wherein R is di-lower alkyl amino, 1,2,3-triazol-1-yl, 1,2,3-triazol-2-yl or 1,2,4-triazol-4-yl, m represents an integer from 1 up to and including 10, and n represents an integer from 0 up to and including 10, and salts thereof: to processes for their preparation, pharmaceutical compositions comprising said hydroxamic acid derivatives, the use of such hydroxamic acid derivatives as medicaments, and a method of treating conditions or diseases mediated by matrix-degrading metalloproteinases (MMP's) using said derivatives alone or in combination with one or more other therapeutic agents.
US07659292B2 Fungicide compositions based on pyridylmethylbenzamide and propamocarb derivative
1) Fungicidal compositions comprising: a) at least one pyridylmethylbenzamide derivative of formula (I): in which the various radicals are as defined in the description, and b) at least one compound (II), which is propamocarb. 2) Method of curatively or preventively combating phytopathogenic fungi in crops, characterized in that an effective, nonphytotoxic amount of one of these fungicidal compositions is applied to the aerial parts of the plants.
US07659290B2 Methods of preparing pre-mixed, ready-to-use pharmaceutical compositions
Provided herein are ready-to-use premixed pharmaceutical compositions of nicardipine or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt and methods for use in treating cardiovascular and cerebrovascular conditions.
US07659287B2 Benzamide derivatives and uses related thereto
Benzamide derivatives of formula I are described and have therapeutic utility, particularly in the treatment of diabetes, obesity and related conditions and disorders:
US07659278B2 Use of low molecular weight compounds for preparing a medicament useful in treating mutant p53 mediated diseases
The present invention provides novel compounds, corresponding to formulae I and II, respectively, which are able to reactivate the apoptosis-inducing function of mutant p53 proteins. This reactivation is provided by restoration of sequence-specific DNA-binding activity and transcriptional transactivation function to mutant p53 proteins, and modulation of the conformation-dependent epitopes of the p53 protein. Accordingly, the substances according to the invention will be used in pharmaceutical compositions and methods for treatment of patients suffering from various types of tumours.
US07659277B2 Ubiquitin ligase inhibitors and methods related thereto
The application discloses compounds that inhibit ubiquitin ligase activity. The application further discloses antiviral compounds, anticancer compounds, and compounds useful for the treatment of neurological disorders.
US07659274B2 Unsaturated mTOR inhibitors
Compounds represented by Formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, are inhibitors of mTOR and useful in the treatment of cancer.
US07659271B2 Pyrimidine compound having dibenzylamine structure and medicament comprising the same
A compound represented by the following general formula (I), wherein R1, R2, R3, R4 and R5 represent hydrogen atom, a halo(lower alkyl) group, cyano group and the like, R6 represents an alkyl group, a cycloalkyl group and the like, R7, R8, R9 and R10 represent hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, a lower alkyl group, a halo(lower alkyl) group and the like, R11 and R12 represent hydrogen atom, a lower alkyl group, a (lower cycloalkyl) (lower alkyl) group and the like, and R13 represents hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, a lower alkoxy group and the like, which has potent inhibitory activity on cholesterol ester transfer protein (CETP).
US07659268B2 Modulators of ATP-binding cassette transporters
Compounds of the present invention, and pharmaceutically acceptable compositions thereof, are useful as modulators of ATP-Binding Cassette (“ABC”) transporters or fragments thereof, including Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (“CFTR”). The present invention also relates to methods of treating ABC transporter mediated diseases using compounds of the present invention.
US07659267B2 1,3-Benzothiazinone derivatives, process for producing the same use thereof
As prophylactic and/or therapeutic agents for cardiovascular diseases, bone or joint diseases, infectious diseases, inflammatory diseases, kidney diseases, etc. having safe and excellent effects of cell death inhibition, MIF binding, etc., there are provided compounds represented by formula: [wherein, R1 represents a halogen atom, etc., R2 represents a group represented by formula: (wherein, R3 represents hydrogen atom, an optionally substituted alkoxy, etc., R4 represents hydrogen atom, bromine atom, cyano, etc., R5 represents hydrogen atom, hydroxy, etc., R6 represents hydrogen atom, etc., R7 represents hydrogen atom, etc.) etc., and n represents an integer of 0 to 4] or salts thereof.
US07659265B2 Thioamide derivatives as progesterone receptor modulators
Thioamide compounds, and specifically, thioamide pyrrole compounds, and preparation thereof are provided. These thioamide compounds can be used as progesterone receptor modulators, in contraception, and in the treatment of progesterone-related maladies.
US07659264B2 CGRP receptor antagonists
The present invention is directed to compounds of Formula I: Formula I: I and Formula II: (where variables R1, R2, R3, R4, A, B, J, Q, T, V, W, X and Y are as defined herein) useful as antagonists of CGRP receptors and useful in the treatment or prevention of diseases in which the CGRP is involved, such as headache, migraine and cluster headache. The invention is also directed to pharmaceutical compositions comprising these compounds and the use of these compounds and compositions in the prevention or treatment of such diseases in which CGRP is involved.
US07659252B2 Transdermal delivery peptides and method of use thereof
Transdermal delivery peptides for the treatment of skin diseases and/or facilitation or enhancement of transdermal delivery of pharmaceutically active agents are provided. Compositions comprising the transdermal delivery peptides and methods of therapeutic use, including the improvement of transdermal delivery of drugs or other pharmaceutically active agents, are also disclosed. Nucleic acids, expression vectors, and methods of their use, which encode the transdermal delivery peptides are disclosed. Methods are also provided for in vivo phage display for identifying further peptides with enhanced transdermal delivery capability.
US07659245B2 Macrocylic inhibitors of hepatitis C virus
Compounds of the formula I: and N-oxides, salts, and stereoisomers thereof wherein A is OR1, NHS(═O)pR2; wherein; R1 is hydrogen, C1-C6alkyl, C0-C3alkylenecarbocyclyl, C0-C3alkylene-heterocyclyl; R2 is C1-C6alkyl, C0-C3alkylenecarbocyclyl, C0-C3alkyleneheterocyclyl; p is independently 1 or 2; n is 3, 4, 5 or 6; denotes an optional double bond; L is N or CRz; Rz is H or forms a double bond with the asterisked carbon; Rq is H or when L is CRz, Rq can also be C1-C6alkyl; Rr is quinazolinyl, optionally substituted with one two or three substituents each independently selected from C1-C6 alkyl, C1-C6alkoxy, hydroxyl, halo, haloC1-C6alkyl, amino, mono- or dialkylamino, mono- or dialkylaminocarbonyl, C1-C6alkyl-carbonylamino, C0-C3alkylenecarbocyclyl and C0-C3 alkyleneheterocyclyl; R5 is hydrogen, C1-C6alkyl, C1-C6alkoxyC1-C6alkyl or C3-C7cycloalkyl; R6 is hydrogen, C1-C6alkyl, C1-C6alkoxy, C0-C3alkylenecarbocyclyl, C0-C3alkylene-heterocyclyl, hydroxy, bromo, chloro or fluoro have utility in the treatment or prophylaxis of flaviviral infections such as HCV.
US07659242B2 Composition comprising protein material and compounds comprising non-oxidizable fatty acid entities
The present invention concerns a composition prepared from a combination of non β-oxidizable fatty acid entities and a protein material, and the use of said composition for the preparation of a pharmaceutical or nutritional composition for the prevention and/or treatment of insulin resistance, obesity, diabetes, fatty liver, hypercholesterolemia, dyslipidemia, atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, thrombosis, stenosis, secondary stenosis, myocardial infarction, stroke, elevated blood pressure, endothelial dysfunction, procoagulant state, polycystic ovary syndrome, the metabolic syndrome, cancer, inflammatory disorders and proliferate skin disorders. An alternative embodiment of the invention includes oil in the composition The present invention also concerns an animal feed prepared from a combination of a protein material and a compound comprising non β-oxidizable fatty acid analogues, the use of said feed for improving the body composition of an animal, and a product produced from said animal.
US07659239B2 Process of incorporating microcapsules into dryer-added fabric care articles
Dryer-added fabric conditioning articles that comprise friable perfume microcapsules provide consumers an impactful freshness experience while wearing clothing that is treated by the article. Manufacturing processes of incorporating friable perfume microcapsules into dryer-added articles that maximizes the yield of unruptured microcapsules are provided.
US07659238B2 Fabric softener compositions comprising homo- and/or copolymers
This invention relates to fabric softener compositions comprising a fabric softener component or a mixture of fabric softener components and at least one polymer formed from the polymerization of c) a water soluble ethylenically unsaturated monomer or blend of monomers comprising at least one cationic monomer and/or at least one non-ionic monomer, d) a cross-linking agent or a mixture of cross-linking agents in an amount of less than 5 ppm by the weight of component a), and c) optionally at least one chain transfer agent, with the proviso that (i) if the polymer is a cationic homopolymer then the amount of the crosslinking agent is always more than 0 ppm, as thickeners, as well as to new fabric softener compositions.
US07659235B2 Stable liquid cleansing compositions which may be prepared using fatty acyl isethionate surfactants
The invention provides liquid cleanser compositions which can use fatty acyl isethionates mixtures, regardless of free fatty acid content of isethionates mixture or chain length distribution of isethionates mixture. The key is to ensure a specific combination of liquid crystal inducer (of surfactant phase) and of modifier so that the isethionates will be stable at low and high temperatures.
US07659230B2 Thermoplastic resin composition containing mesoporous powders absorbed with lubricating oils
Thermoplastic resin compositions comprising a thermoplastic polymer and a lubricating oil-impregnated mesoporous powder. The compositions comprise about 0.3 to about 2 weight percent of lubricating oil, based on the total weight of the composition and are able to maintain a low coefficient of friction and minimal wear over an extended period of use.
US07659221B2 Metal nanostructured colorants for high redox glass
A colorant for a high redox glass composition comprising: total iron (Fe2O3) 0 to 1.1 weight percent; and from 0.0001 to 0.15 weight percent of at least one of the following: Cu nanostructures, Au nanostructures, or Ag nanostructures, wherein the weight percents are based on the total weight of the glass composition. The colorant of the invention can be used to make glass compositions having various colors.
US07659217B2 Durable and fire resistant nonwoven composite fabric based garment
The present invention is directed to the design and manufacturing of a field durable, repeatedly launderable and permanently fire resistant, comfortable and economical FR nonwoven composite fabric based garment, which meets the stringent requirements of military combat uniform clothing. The nonwoven based garment is designed to replace the traditional woven textile fabric used in the military today. The novel garment of the current invention is constructed using a unique spunlaced or hydroentangled FR nonwoven composite fabric that exhibits mechanical, physical, durability and comfort characteristics similar to or better than that of the current woven military uniform fabric. In particular, the present invention contemplates the nonwoven composite fabric used to make the garment is prepared by combining at least two separate nonwoven webs forming the inside and outside layers of the garment. An optional rip-stop element such as a loosely knitted fabric may be sandwiched between the two nonwoven webs to improve the dimensional stability of the entire garment. Hydroentangling process combines the individual nonwoven webs to form a coherent base nonwoven composite fabric before dyeing and printing which is then made fire resistant by application of a phosphate ester chemical in an ammonia-cure process to form the FR nonwoven composite fabric of the garment.
US07659203B2 Electroless deposition process on a silicon contact
Embodiments as described herein provide methods for depositing a material on a substrate during electroless deposition processes, as well as compositions of the electroless deposition solutions. In one embodiment, the substrate contains a contact aperture having an exposed silicon contact surface. In another embodiment, the substrate contains a contact aperture having an exposed silicide contact surface. The apertures are filled with a metal contact material by exposing the substrate to an electroless deposition process. The metal contact material may contain a cobalt material, a nickel material, or alloys thereof. Prior to filling the apertures, the substrate may be exposed to a variety of pretreatment processes, such as preclean processes and activations processes. A preclean process may remove organic residues, native oxides, and other contaminants during a wet clean process or a plasma etch process. Embodiments of the process also provide the deposition of additional layers, such as a capping layer.
US07659201B2 Process for manufacturing semiconductor integrated circuit device
In order to provide an anticorrosive technique for metal wirings formed by a chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) method, a process for manufacturing a semiconductor integrated circuit device according to the invention comprises the steps of: forming a metal layer of Cu (or a Cu alloy containing Cu as a main component) over the major face of a wafer and then planarizing the metal layer by a chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) method to form metal wirings; anticorroding the planarized major face of the wafer to form a hydrophobic protective film over the surfaces of the metal wirings; immersing the anticorroded major face of the wafer or keeping the same in a wet state so that it may not become dry; and post-cleaning the major face, kept in the wet state, of the wafer.
US07659199B2 Air break for improved silicide formation with composite caps
Disclosed is a structure and method for tuning silicide stress and, particularly, for developing a tensile silicide region on a gate conductor of an n-FET in order to optimize n-FET performance. More particularly, a first metal layer-protective cap layer-second metal layer stack is formed on an n-FET structure. However, prior to the deposition of the second metal layer, the protective layer is exposed to air. This air break step alters the adhesion between the protective cap layer and the second metal layer and thereby, effects the stress imparted upon the first metal layer during silicide formation. The result is a more tensile silicide that is optimal for n-FET performance. Additionally, the method allows such a tensile silicide region to be formed using a relatively thin first metal layer-protective cap layer-second metal layer stack, and particularly, a relatively thin second metal layer, to minimize mechanical energy build up at the junctions between the gate conductor and the sidewall spacers to avoid silicon bridging.
US07659198B2 In-situ deposition for Cu hillock suppression
A semiconductor interconnect structure having reduced hillock formation and a method for forming the same are provided. The semiconductor interconnect structure includes a conductor formed in a dielectric layer. The conductor includes at least three sub-layers, wherein the ratio of the impurity concentrations in neighboring sub-layers is preferably greater than about two.
US07659195B2 Method for forming metal line of semiconductor device
A method for forming metal lines of a semiconductor device is disclosed. The metal line forming method includes forming plugs by perforating via-holes in an interlayer dielectric layer formed on a semiconductor substrate and burying a conductive material in the via-holes, sequentially forming at least two metal layers on the interlayer dielectric layer formed with the plugs, the metal layers having a difference in the size of metal grains of each metal layer, etching an uppermost first metal layer of the at least two metal layers using a photoresist pattern formed on the first metal layer as an etching mask using a first etching gas, and etching the partially etched first metal layer using a second etching gas.
US07659192B2 Methods of forming stepped bumps and structures formed thereby
Methods of forming a microelectronic device and associated structures are described. Those methods may comprise forming a die-side conductive interconnect on a substrate, wherein the die-side conductive interconnect comprises a columnar portion and a base portion, and wherein a diameter of the base portion is greater than a diameter of the columnar portion.
US07659188B2 Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing the same
The present invention provides a method for manufacturing a semiconductor device which includes a step of forming one optional impurity region in a semiconductor substrate at a place apart from the surface thereof, and in the method described above, ion implantation is performed a plurality of times while the position of an end portion of a mask pattern used for ion implantation is changed.
US07659184B2 Plasma immersion ion implantation process with chamber seasoning and seasoning layer plasma discharging for wafer dechucking
In a plasma immersion ion implantation process, the thickness of a pre-implant chamber seasoning layer is increased (to permit implantation of a succession of wafers without replacing the seasoning layer) without loss of wafer clamping electrostatic force due to increased seasoning layer thickness. This is accomplished by first plasma-discharging residual electrostatic charge from the thick seasoning layer. The number of wafers which can be processed using the same seasoning layer is further increased by fractionally supplementing the seasoning layer after each wafer is processed, which may be followed by a brief plasma discharging of the supplemented seasoning before processing the next wafer.
US07659174B2 Method to enhance device performance with selective stress relief
A structure and method of fabrication of a semiconductor device having a stress relief layer under a stress layer in one region of a substrate. In a first example, a stress relief layer is formed over a first region of the substrate (e.g., PFET region) and not over a second region (e.g., NFET region). A stress layer is over the stress relief layer in the first region and over the devices and substrate/silicide in the second region. The NFET transistor performance is enhanced due to the overall tensile stress in the NFET channel while the degradation in the PFET transistor performance is reduced/eliminated due to the inclusion of the stress relief layer. In a second example embodiment, the stress relief layer is formed over the second region, but not the first region and the stress of the stress layer is reversed.
US07659173B2 Method for manufacturing insulated-gate type field effect transistor
A poly-silicon layer is deposited on a surface of a substrate after forming a gate insulating film in an element hole of a field insulating film 12, and thereon a silicon oxide layer is formed by a thermal oxidation process. After patterning the silicon oxide layer in accordance with a gate electrode pattern, the poly-silicon layer is patterned by dry-etching using a remaining resist layer as a mask. After removing the resist layer, a gate electrode layer 16a is formed by decreasing a width of the poly-silicon layer by isotropic etching using the silicon oxide layer 18A as a mask. N+-type source and drain regions 22 and 24 and n−-type source and drain regions 26 and 28 are formed by doping impurity ions via the gate insulating film 14 through the silicon oxide layer 18A. The silicon oxide layer 18A may be made of a layer of tungsten silicide.
US07659155B2 Method of forming a transistor having gate and body in direct self-aligned contact
A transistor having a directly contacting gate and body and related methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, the transistor includes a gate; a body; and a dielectric layer extending over the body to insulate the gate from the body along an entire surface of the body except along a portion of at least a sidewall of the body, wherein the gate is in direct contact with the body at the portion. One method may include providing the body; forming a sacrificial layer that contacts at least a portion of a sidewall of the body; forming a dielectric layer about the body except at the at least a portion; removing the sacrificial layer; and forming the gate about the body such that the gate contacts the at least a portion of the sidewall of the body.
US07659153B2 Sectional field effect devices and method of fabrication
A field effect device is disclosed which has a body formed of a crystalline semiconductor material and has at least one vertically oriented section and at least one horizontally oriented section. The device is produced in SOI technology by fabricating first a formation of the device in masking insulators, and then transferring this formation through several etching steps into the SOI layer. The segmented field effect device combines FinFET, or fully depleted silicon-on-insulator FETs, type devices with fully depleted planar devices. This combination allows device width control with FinFET type devices. The segmented field effect device gives high current drive for a given layout area. The segmented field effect devices allow for the fabrication of high performance processors.
US07659151B2 Flip chip with interposer, and methods of making same
A device is disclosed which includes a die comprising an integrated circuit and an interposer that is coupled to the die, the interposer having a smaller footprint than that of the die. A method is disclosed which includes operatively coupling an interposer to a die comprising an integrated circuit, the interposer having a smaller footprint than that of the die, and filling a space between the interposer and the die with an underfill material.
US07659149B2 Method of electrically detecting biomolecule
Provided is a method of sensing biomolecules using a bioFET, the method including: forming a layer including Au on a gate of the bioFET; forming a probe immobilized on a substrate separated from the gate by a predetermined distance, and a biomolecule having a thiol group (—SH) which is incompletely bonded to the probe; reacting the probe with a sample including a target molecule; and measuring a current flowing in a channel region between a source and a drain of the bioFET.
US07659141B2 Wire bond encapsulant application control
A method of applying encapsulant to a die mounted to a support structure by providing a die mounted to the support structure, the die having a back surface in contact with the support structure and an active surface opposing the back surface, the active surface having electrical contact pads, positioning a barrier proximate the electrical contact pads and spaced from the active surface to define a gap and, depositing a bead of encapsulant onto the electrical contact pads such that one side of the bead contacts the barrier and a portion of the bead extends into the gap and onto the active surface. Placing a barrier over the active surface so that it defines a narrow gap allows the geometry of the encapsulant front (the line of contact between the encapsulant and the active surface) can be more closely controlled. Any variation in the flowrate of encapsulant from the needle tends to cause bulges or valleys in the height of the bead and or the PCB side of the bead. The fluidic resistance generated by the gap between the barrier and the active surface means that the amount of encapsulant that flows into the gap and onto the active surface is almost constant. The reduced flow variations make the encapsulant front closely correspond to the shape of the barrier. Greater control of the encapsulant front allows the functional elements of the active surface of the die to be closer to the contact pads.
US07659140B2 Integrated circuit system with a debris trapping system
An integrated circuit system including: providing an integrated circuit wafer having an integrated circuit side and a backside; mounting a protective adhesive on the integrated circuit side of the integrated circuit wafer; removing material from the backside of the integrated circuit wafer; and dicing the integrated circuit wafer through the protective adhesive to form an integrated circuit die.
US07659139B2 Method for destruction of metallic carbon nanotubes, method for production of aggregate of semiconducting carbon nanotubes, method for production of thin film of semiconducting carbon nanotubes, method for destruction of semiconducting carbon nanotubes, method for production of aggregate of metallic carbon nanotubes, method for production of thin film of metallic carbon nanotubes, method for production of electronic device, method for production of aggregate of carbon nanotubes, method for selective reaction of semiconducting carbon nanotubes
A method for destruction of metallic carbon nanotubes is provided. The method includes irradiating a mixture of semiconducting carbon nanotubes and metallic carbon nanotubes with energy beams (such as laser light), thereby selectively destroying metallic carbon nanotubes or semiconducting carbon nanotubes. The energy beams have energy components for resonance absorption by the metallic carbon nanotubes or semiconducting carbon nanotubes.
US07659132B2 Semiconductor element holding apparatus and semiconductor device manufactured using the same
A semiconductor element holding apparatus includes a collet for suctioning a semiconductor element by negative pressure to hold the semiconductor element. The collet has a protrusion formed at the semiconductor element-holding surface thereof, and the protrusion is provided with a plurality of suction holes. The suction holes are opened to the semiconductor element-holding surface. The surface of the semiconductor element is held by the semiconductor element-holding surface of the protrusion of the collet.
US07659127B2 Manufacturing device of semiconductor package and manufacturing method of semiconductor package
A manufacturing device of a semiconductor package includes: a holding element for holding a substrate; a bonding element for holding the package and bonding a first metal bump of the package to a second metal bump of the substrate; a monitoring element for irradiating an infrared light toward the substrate and monitoring an electrode pad under the second metal bump based on a reflected light reflected on the pad; and a determination element for determining a state of a bonding surface between the first and second metal bumps based on monitoring information of the pad. The monitoring element faces the bonding element through the holding element, the substrate and the package.
US07659120B2 Δ 15 desaturases suitable for altering levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids in oleaginous plants and yeast
The present invention relates to fungal Δ-15 fatty acid desaturases that are able to catalyze the conversion of linoleic acid (18:2, LA) to alpha-linolenic acid (18:3, ALA). Nucleic acid sequences encoding the desaturases, nucleic acid sequences which hybridize thereto, DNA constructs comprising the desaturase genes, and recombinant host plants and microorganisms expressing increased levels of the desaturases are described. Methods of increasing production of specific omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids by over-expression of the Δ-15 fatty acid desaturases are also described herein.
US07659119B2 Method and compositions for obtaining mature dendritic cells
We describe an improved method for generating sizable numbers of mature dendritic cells from nonproliferating progenitors in human blood. The first step or “priming” phase is a culture of T cell depleted mononuclear cells in medium supplemented with GM-CSF and IL-4 to produce immature dendritic cells. The second step or “differentiation” phase requires the exposure to dendritic cell maturation factor such as monocyte conditioned medium. Using this two-step approach, substantial yields are obtained. The dendritic cells derive from this method have all the features of mature cells. They include a stellate cell shape, nonadherence to plastic, and very strong T cell stimulatory activity. The mature dendritic cells produced according to this invention are useful for activating T cells.
US07659114B2 Recombinant feline herpesvirus type 1 and polyvalent vaccine using the same
An attenuated feline recombinant herpesvirus 1 (FHV-1), which is prepared by identifying gene regions in the genome wherein inserted foreign genes can be expressed without affecting the replication of FHV-1 and has least two types of foreign nucleic acid sequences inserted thereinto, usable as a vector virus or a vaccine. In this attenuated recombinant FHV-1, at least two types of foreign genes are inserted in such a manner as allowing the expression into two different gene regions exerting no lethal effect on the proliferation of the virus in the feline herpesvirus 1 genome.
US07659113B2 Delivery system
A retroviral delivery system capable of transducing a target site is described. The retroviral delivery system comprises a first nucleotide sequence coding for at least a part of an envelope protein; a second nucleotide sequence coding for at least a part of an envelope protein and one or more other nucleotide sequences derivable from a retrovirus that ensure transduction of the target site by the retroviral delivery system; wherein the first and second nucleotide sequences are heterologous with respect to at least one of the other nucleotide sequences; and wherein the first nucleotide sequence codes for at least a part of an influenza HA protein or a mutant, variant, derivative or fragment thereof that is capable of recognising the target site. Preferably said second protein is an influenza M2 protein.
US07659110B2 DNA amplification device
A processing block 2 is composed of a base 5, where an upper substrate 6 formed with a metal material M and a lower substrate 7 formed with the metal material M or a ceramic material E are adhered, and cells C . . . supported by this base 5; and the cells C . . . are secured to the upper substrate 6 and/or the lower substrate 7 at least via cell positioners 6s . . . established in the upper substrate 6 for positioning the cells C . . . , respectively.At the same time, at least the thickness Ld of regions Xc . . . situated under the cells C . . . in the lower substrate 7 is selected to be 1.0 [mm] or thinner, and, a thermo-module(s) comes into contact with the lower surface of the base 5.
US07659103B2 Nucleic acid construct containing fulllength genome of human hepatitis C virus, recombinant fulllength virus genome-replicating cells having the nucleic acid construct transferred thereinto and method of producing hepatitis C virus Particle
The present invention provides a method for replicating efficiently an RNA containing fulllength HCV genomic sequence and a method for producing HCV virus particles containing fulllength HCV replicon RNA or fulllength HCV genomic RNA by using a cell culture system. Further, the present invention relates to a method for producing hepatitis C virus particles which comprises culturing a cell, into which a replicon RNA comprising a nucleotide sequence comprising a fulllength genomic RNA sequence of hepatitis C virus of the genotype 2a, at least one selectable marker gene and/or at least one reporter gene and at least one IRES sequence or the fulllength genomic RNA of hepatitis C virus of the genotype 2a is introduced, and generating virus particles in the culture medium. Still further the present invention relates also to a hepatitis C vaccine and an antibody against hepatitis C virus particles.
US07659102B2 Amylases, nucleic acids encoding them and methods for making and using them
In one aspect, the invention is directed to polypeptides having an amylase activity, polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides, and methods for malting and using these polynucleotides and polypeptides. In one aspect, the polypeptides of the invention can be used as amylases, for example, alpha amylases, to catalyze the hydrolysis of starch into 10 sugars.
US07659098B2 Method of treating waste from alcohol production
A method of treating a plurality of byproducts generated in the process of producing alcohol using corn as a raw material, and making effective use of them, particularly as feed compositions. The method of treating byproducts generated in the process of producing alcohol from corn comprises a step of using a koji mold to ferment a mixture of at least one solid byproduct and a distillation residue generated in the process of producing alcohol, to produce a koji fermentation product.
US07659095B2 Methods for determining the presence or absence of elite event RF-BN1 in Brassica plant material
This invention relates to transgenic winter oilseed rape (WOSR) plants, plant material and seeds, harboring a specific transformation event. It pertains to winter oilseed rape plants, more particularly to a pair of winter oilseed rape plants, which is particularly suited for the production of hybrid seed. More specifically, one plant is characterized by being male-sterile, due to the presence in its genome of a male sterility gene, while the other is characterized by carrying a fertility-restorer gene, capable of preventing the activity of the male-sterility gene. The invention further provides a method for producing hybrid seed, a process for producing a transgenic WOSR plant oil or plant, and a method to identify a transgenic plant, cell or tissue. A kit for identifying the transgenic plants comparing the elite event of the present invention is also described. The WOSR plants of the invention combine the ability to form hybrid seeds with optimal overall agronomic performance, genetic stability and adaptability to different generic backgrounds.
US07659092B2 Fusion proteins
A single chain, polypeptide fusion protein, comprising: a non-cytotoxic protease, or a fragment thereof, which protease or protease fragment is capable of cleaving a protein of the exocytic fusion apparatus of a nociceptive sensory afferent; a Targeting Moiety that is capable of binding to a Binding Site on the nociceptive sensory afferent, which Binding Site is capable of undergoing endocytosis to be incorporated into an endosome within the nociceptive sensory afferent; a protease cleavage site at which site the fusion protein is cleavable by a protease, wherein the protease cleavage site is located between the non-cytotoxic protease or fragment thereof and the Targeting Moiety; and a translocation domain that is capable of translocating the protease or protease fragment from within an endosome, across the endosomal membrane and into the cytosol of the nociceptive sensory afferent. Nucleic acid sequences encoding the polypeptide fusion proteins, methods of preparing same and uses thereof are also described.
US07659088B2 Assay for inositol phosphorylceramide synthase activity
Disclosed is a simple and reproducible method for assaying inositol phosphorylceramide synthase activity that employs a fluorescence resonance energy transfer pair for measuring enzyme activity. The invention also includes a novel method for identifying IPC synthase inhibitors.
US07659082B2 Methods for identifying analgesic agents
The present invention relates to the discovery that mutations in SCN9A are causative of Congenital Indifference to Pain (CIP) in humans. The invention also relates to methods of utilizing the SCN9A gene and expression products thereof for the screening and identification of therapeutic agents, including small organic compounds, which are selective for SCN9A, and are useful in the treatment of pain and other disorders. The invention also relates to methods of using these compounds to treat or otherwise ameliorate such disorders.
US07659081B2 Determination of AM-binding proteins and the association of adrenomedullin (AM) therewith
The present invention provides methods for the isolation, identification, and purification of adrenomedullin (AM)-binding proteins. Also, provided are methods for utilizing the purified AM-binding proteins, or functional portions thereof, to diagnose, treat, and monitor AM-related diseases, for example, diseases or disorders associated with abnormally elevated AM levels. In addition, the present invention provides a newly identified complex between AM and a specific AM-binding protein 1 (AMBP-1); which has been isolated and identified herein as factor H (fH). The invention also provides AM/AMBP complexes, particularly AM/FH complexes, and antibodies specifically reactive with this complexes. Further provided are methods for identifying and purifying complexes of AM and an AM binding protein using anti-AM/fH antibodies, and methods for treating conditions such as cancer or diabetes utilizing compositions comprising these antibodies. The present invention additionally provides methods for identifying antagonists agents that inhibit the function of AM, factor H, or the AM/factor H complex. The invention also provides methods for treating conditions such as cancer or diabetes using these antagonist agents.
US07659072B2 Methods for using riboprimers for strand displacement replication of target sequences
Methods, compositions and kits for amplifying a target sequence by strand displacement replication using strand-displacing primers. The method uses primers that have only ribonucleotides or purine ribonucleotides and at least one 2′-substituted pyrimidine-2′-deoxyribonucleotide.
US07659070B2 Charge switch nucleotides
The present invention provides compounds, methods and systems for sequencing nucleic acid using single molecule detection. Using labeled NPs that exhibit charge-switching behavior, single-molecule DNA sequencing in a microchannel sorting system is realized. In operation, sequencing products are detected enabling real-time sequencing as successive detectable moieties flow through a detection channel. By electrically sorting charged molecules, the cleaved product molecules are detected in isolation without interference from unincorporated NPs and without illuminating the polymerase-DNA complex.
US07659068B1 Carrier for gene detection and its use for detecting validity of interferon therapy
A carrier for gene detection as a means for prediction before treatment whether interferon therapy is valid or not for a patient, a method for detection of interferon therapy for an individual, an apparatus for gene detection, and a kit for detection of validity of interferon therapy.
US07659066B2 Detection and distinguishing infections bursal disease virus (IBDV) strains by molecular biology method
The present invention relates to a novel method to detect and differentiate different strains of infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) in a chicken and other bird sample. RNA was obtained from said samples by using a pair of primer (Primer FVVC & RVVC) in a reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. Two different primer combinations (Primer IF & IVIR) and (Primer IF & RCLA) and real-time polymerase chain reaction conditions were designed and optimized for rapid differentiation of very virulent and vaccine strains of IBDV based on detection of signatory threshold cycle (Ct) and melting temperature (Tm) values.
US07659062B2 Gene expression profiling of uterine serous papillary carcinomas and ovarian serous papillary tumors
Oligonucleotide microarrays were used to profile and compare gene expression patterns between uterine serous papillary carcinoma and ovarian serous papillary carcinoma or normal endometrial epithelial cells. mRNA fingerprints readily distinguish the more biologically aggressive and chemotherapy resistant USPC from OSPC or NEC. Plasminogen activator inhibitor is the most highly up-regulated gene in OSPC relative to USPC, whereas the c-erbB2 gene product (HER-2/neu) is strikingly overexpressed in USPC relative to OSPC and may therefore represent a novel diagnostic and therapeutic marker for this highly aggressive subset of endometrial tumors.
US07659061B2 Pharmaceutical compositions having a modified vehicle
A composition comprising: (a) one to three bioactive agents; and (b) a vehicle comprising; (i) a modified liquid carrier, and (ii) an unmodified liquid carrier wherein the ratio by volume of the modified liquid carrier to the unmodified liquid carrier is between 0.00001:99.99999 to less than 0.01:99.99, that provide the composition with predictable sustained-release properties and wherein immediately after manufacture of the composition, said composition can be administered to a host such that the one to three bioactive agents is released to the host on a sustained basis.
US07659051B2 Polymer having antireflective properties, hardmask composition including the same, and process for forming a patterned material layer
A naphthalene-backbone polymer represented by Formula 1: wherein n and m are independently at least 1 and less than about 190, R1 is a hydrogen, a hydroxyl, a hydrocarbon group of about 10 carbons or less, or a halogen, R2 is methylene or includes an aryl linking group, R3 is a conjugated diene group, and R4 is an unsaturated dienophile group.
US07659048B2 Printing resist, method for preparing the same and patterning method using the same
Disclosed herein is a printing resist sequentially transferred to a printing plate and a substrate after being applied to a printing roll. The printing resist comprises at least one polymer main chain bound to a tackiness-inducing vinyl group. The surface of the printing resist has tackiness without complete dryness, thus enabling a correct transfer of the printing resist to the printing plate and substrate.
US07659040B2 Exposure mask and method of manufacturing the same, and semiconductor device manufacturing method
An exposure mask 24, includes a quartz (transparent) substrate 20, a film 21 formed on the quartz substrate 20, a rectangular main feature 21a formed in the film 21, a first assist feature 21b formed in the film 21 away from the main feature 21a and having a size that is not resolved as a rectangle that has a long side 21e opposing to one side 21d of the main feature 21d, and a second assist feature 21c formed in the film 21 and positioned on a virtual prolonged line L of a diagonal of the main feature 21a and having a size that is not resolved.
US07659036B2 Lithium rechargeable battery including a porous membrane separator formed of ceramic secondary particles and a binder
A lithium rechargeable battery includes a separator that shows excellent safety characteristics such as short circuit resistance and heat resistance. The lithium rechargeable battery includes a cathode, an anode, a separator that separates the cathode and the anode from each other, and a non-aqueous electrolyte, wherein the separator includes a porous membrane formed of a ceramic material and a binder, and wherein the binder includes at least one crystalline resin having a crystal melting temperature of 250° C. or higher or at least one non-crystalline resin having an initial decomposition temperature of 250° C. or higher.
US07659035B2 Nonaqueous electrolyte secondary battery
A nonaqueous electrolyte secondary battery is provided. The nonaqueous electrolyte secondary battery includes a cathode; an anode containing at least an anode active material and a conductive agent; and a nonaqueous electrolyte, wherein the anode has an anode mixture, the anode mixture containing 1.5 wt % or more to 10 wt % or less aluminum oxide which has an average particle diameter of 0.1 μm or more to 5.0 μm or less.
US07659029B2 Battery module with insulating plates nipping electrode tabs
A battery module has stacked therein a plurality of flat cells each formed by sealing a power generating element with a package member and deriving to the exterior electrode tabs from the package member and has the electrode tabs of the flat cells connected electrically. The battery module includes electrically insulated spacers adapted to nip the electrode tab from the opposite surface sides of the electrode tab along the stacking direction of the plurality of flat cells. The paired spacers nipping the electrode tab include an engaging member adapted to fasten the electrode tab by being passed through the electrode tab along the stacking direction.
US07659024B2 Fuel cell having a separator with water-retaining groove portions
In a fuel cell composed of a pair of separators with a membrane electrode assembly sandwiched therebetween, gas passages having a plurality of generally linear passage portions, and bent passage portions each of which makes one end portion of the linear passage portions communicated with the other end portion of the linear passage portions, are formed so as to be communicative from a gas introducing port to a discharge port. In inner wall surfaces of the groove portions of the separators constituting the linear passage portions, water-retaining groove portions capable of retaining inside thereof at least part of water generated in the gas passage are formed in such a grooved configuration as to be substantially continuous along the passage portion. As a water drop generated within the gas passage makes contact with retained water within the water-retaining groove portions, growth of the water drop is suppressed to avoid any blockage of the gas passage, by which the anti-flooding property is improved.
US07659021B2 Power generating apparatus using solid oxide fuel cell
The present invention relates to a power generating apparatus using a solid oxide fuel cell. A plurality of solid oxide fuel cells, each comprising a solid oxide substrate, a porous cathode electrode layer, and a porous anode electrode layer, are stacked vertically and housed inside a walled structure. A mixture gas is supplied to each solid oxide fuel cell from above. An exhaust gas discharged from each fuel cell is burned in a space below each fuel cell, producing a flame. Each fuel cell is heated by this flame.
US07659011B2 Organic electroluminescent device, method for manufacturing the same, and electronic appliance
An organic EL device includes a cathode, organic luminescent layers, and an electron-injection layer disposed between the cathode and the luminescent layers. The electron-injection layer contains an organic metal complex having a central atom of the same metal element as a constituent element of the cathode. A larger number of ligands than the valence of the central atom of the complex are coordinated to the central atom.
US07659007B2 Decorative sheet, molded article, motor vehicle, and production method of molded article
A decorative sheet includes a base member having a principal surface, and a decoration layer disposed on the principal surface of the base member. The base member is formed from a first resin material. The decoration layer includes a resin layer formed from a second resin material having a deflection temperature under load which is lower than that of the first resin material, and a metal layer which is in contact with the resin layer.
US07659006B2 Laminated polyester film and manufacturing process thereof
A laminated polyester film comprising a coating layer formed on at least one side of a polyester film, this coating layer comprising a polymer binder and inorganic-organic composite particles having an average particle diameter of 200 to 2,000 nm. This film has excellent scratch resistance, adhesion, transparency and slipperiness and is useful as an adhesive film for optical use.
US07659002B2 Low emissivity coating with low solar heat gain coefficient, enhanced chemical and mechanical properties and method of making the same
The invention provides low-emissivity stacks comprising at least one absorbing layer, said stacks being characterized by a low solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), enhanced aesthetics, mechanical and chemical durability, and a tolerance for tempering or heat strengthening. The invention moreover provides low-emissivity coatings comprising, in order outward from the substrate a first dielectric layer, a first Ag layer; a first barrier layer; a first absorbing layer; a second dielectric layer; a second Ag layer; a second absorbing layer; a third dielectric layer; and optionally, a topcoat layer, and methods for depositing such coatings on substrates.
US07658990B2 Super light weight ceramic panel and process for preparing the same
A super lightweight ceramic panel for a non-bearing wall utilizing an expandable clay mineral and a process for preparing the same are provided. The super lightweight ceramic panel is comprised of a clay composition containing 90 to 98% by weight of an expandable clay mineral, 1.5 to 5% by weight of a flux (glass), and 0.5 to 5% by weight of silicon carbide, and is prepared by mixing and pressing the clay composition, followed by firing at a temperature of 1100 to 1200° C. The super lightweight ceramic panel in accordance with the present invention is a material having a light weight and exhibiting improvement in physical properties such as water resistance, flame retardancy, heat insulation and rigidity, via formation of closed pores inside the ceramic material.
US07658984B2 Lightweight acoustic automotive carpet
Light weight acoustic carpet including porous carpeting backed by a primary sound reducing layer and localized secondary insulators for use within vehicles, and methods of making same, are provided. A porous carpet structure including a carpet backing is heated to achieve a fluid or semi-fluid state and then subjected to intense vacuum to draw air through the carpet backing to create a porous structure. A layer of sound absorbing or insulating material may be applied to the porous carpet structure to provide improved acoustic properties. Secondary sound reducing absorbers/insulators may further be included as part of the molding process to provide selected areas of increased thickness and provide tailoring of sound attenuation.
US07658983B2 Protective barrier
A protection product has thermal and acoustic barrier characteristics such that it satisfies the requirements of the standard 14 CFR, part 25 issued by the Federal Aviation Administration. The product is designed to be applied along metallic and composite structures, such as aircraft cockpits, boat hulls or the outside structures of trains or of other means of transport. The product is essentially in the form of a “mat” consisting of one or several fiber layers, preferably glass fibers, enclosed in a sheath. The sheath generally comprises at least one first support, preferably made of an organic material having sealing and anti-condensation properties, and an impregnated mica paper. The mica paper preferably has a weight per unit area of less than 50 g/m2 and comprises flakes of mica with a form factor greater than 1000.
US07658974B2 Process for making urethane-containing structures and the structures made thereby
There is provided a two-pack composition for making urethane-containing structures, said composition comprising (a) a first pack comprising at least one reaction product of at least one polyisocyanate and at least one polyol, wherein said first pack has %NCO of 6% or greater, and (b) a second pack comprising at least one polyol and at least one amine catalyst, wherein the reactive mixture formed by admixing said first pack and said second pack is capable of curing in the absence of water; and wherein said reactive mixture comprises less than 3% solvent by weight based on the weight of said reactive mixture. Also provided are methods of making such urethane-containing structures, and the urethane structures made thereby.
US07658966B2 Balloon catheter for delivering therapeutic agents
A drug delivery device for delivering therapeutic agents and a method of making such a device is disclosed. The device includes an inflatable balloon having a plurality of holes formed in the wall of the balloon. A microporous coating covers a portion of the outer surface of the wall of the balloon. The thickness of the coating and the size of the micropores can permit controlled delivery of a substance from the micropores of the coating and into the tissue of a patient's lumen.
US07658962B2 Cooking cream
A cooking cream was prepared that is useful for cooking and preferably has a good whipping capability also. The cream comprises about 55 to 93% by weight water, about 5 to 45% by weight fat, about 1 to 10% by weight protein, about 0.5 to 10% by weight starch, and an effective amount of emulsifier. Preferably, the cream also contains an effective amount of stabilizer and an effective amount of buffer.
US07658961B2 Isothiocyanate preservatives and methods of their use
A composition for preserving solid food products comprising a moisture-sensitive isothiocyanate compound and a hygroscopic carrier, wherein the composition is substantially free of sorbic acid, benzoic acid, and salts thereof. Also disclosed is a solid food product containing the aforementioned preservative composition and a method for preserving solid food products including the steps of adding a moisture-sensitive isothiocyanate to the solid food product and storing the resulting product at a reduced temperature.
US07658955B2 Pueraria candollei var. mirifica A Shaw. & Suvat. extract
An extract is derived from Pueraria candollei var. mirifica A Shaw. & Suvat. for topical and internal use in treating a subject. The extract is obtained by a sequential extraction process using a sequence of different solvents or mixtures of solvents in varying ratios and thereafter combining the liquid extracts. The liquid extract is then evaporated to dryness to obtain the extract. The extract is used in a topical composition that when applied to the skin reduces wrinkles without eye irritation.
US07658954B2 Synergistic antipyretic formulation
The present invention relates to a synergistic antipyretic formulation comprising extracts of plants Berberis aristata , Tinospora cordifolia , Alstonia scholaris, Andrographis paniculata and Hedychium spicatum , optionally along with pharmaceutically acceptable additives; its use in treating fever, and lastly, a process for the preparation said synergistic antipyretic formulation.
US07658937B2 Anthraquinones and process for the preparation and method of use thereof
A process for the preparation of hydroxyl substituted anthraquinones is described. The process couples a phthalic anhydride (substituted or unsubstituted) to benzene ring moiety substituted with at least two hydroxyl groups. Remaining hydroxy groups were converted to methoxy groups in some anthraquinones. The compounds are particularly useful for the treatment of parasitic diseases. Also, a method of treating or preventing malaria, filariasis schistosomiasis and other parasitic diseases using anthraquinones.
US07658930B2 Kit for detecting the antibody of HCV and its preparing method
A kit and its preparing method concerning dual-antigen sandwich method are used for detecting the antibody against HCV, and its detecting mode is ‘carrier-first antigen-antibody against HCV to be detected-second antigen-marker-distinguishable signal’. The kit ant its preparing method characterize in that the second antigen is the complex of a HCV and a tag.
US07658924B2 Angiopoietin-2 specific binding agents
Disclosed are specific binding agents, such as fully human antibodies, that bind to angiopoietin-2. Also disclosed are heavy chain fragments, light chain fragments, and CDRs of the antibodies, as well as methods of making and using the antibodies.
US07658916B2 Methods of enhancing lysosomal storage disease therapy by modulation of cell surface receptor density
Methods of modulating uptake of extracellular lysosomal enzymes by administering a pharmaceutical agent and methods of treating a lysosomal storage disease (such as Gaucher disease, Pompe disease, Fabry disease or Niemann-Pick disease) or enhancing enzyme replacement therapy or gene therapy, comprising administering a pharmaceutical agent such as dexamethasone, glucose or insulin, are provided.
US07658912B2 Spatial evolution of neural activity
A method for identifying a candidate drug includes administering a test compound to test subjects and having the test subjects perform a sustained task. A first evolution of neural activity in the test subjects is then determined and compared with a second evolution of neural activity. This second evolution of neural activity is obtained from control subjects performing the sustained task in the absence of the test compound. The test compound is then designated to be a candidate drug when a difference between the first and second evolutions of neural activity is above a difference threshold.
US07658908B2 Method of removing carbon monoxide and operating a fuel cell system
A carbon monoxide removing catalyst such as a ruthenium supporting catalyst is provided for removing, through oxidation thereof, carbon monoxide from an alcohol reformed gas containing hydrogen and carbon monoxide to be supplied to a fuel cell. For its activation, the catalyst is caused to contact an inactive gas or a hydrogen-containing inactive gas consisting of less than 50 volume % of hydrogen gas and the remaining volume of inactive gas, thereby to avoid poisoning of the electrode of the fuel cell with carbon monoxide.
US07658905B2 Method of preparing cadmium sulfide nanocrystals emitting light at multiple wavelengths, and cadmium sulfide nanocrystals prepared by the method
A cadmium sulfide nanocrystal, wherein the cadmium sulfide nanocrystal shows maximum luminescence peaks at two or more wavelengths and most of the atoms constituting the nanocrystal are present at the surface of the nanocrystal to form defects.
US07658898B2 Compositions and methods for treating exhaust gases
The present invention provides compositions, systems, and methods for achieving high efficiencies of nitrogen oxide (NOx) removal from exhaust gases while minimizing ammonia slip and sulfur dioxide oxidation. In one embodiment, a method of removing nitrogen oxides from an exhaust gas comprises providing a first catalyst layer, adding an ammonia-containing compound to the exhaust gas upstream of the first catalyst layer in excess of the stoichiometric equivalent of the nitrogen oxides in the exhaust gas, flowing the exhaust gas through the first catalyst layer, selectively catalytically decomposing ammonia in excess of the stoichiometric reaction equivalent of the nitrogen oxides in the exhaust gas, and catalytically reducing the nitrogen oxides by reaction with ammonia not selectively catalytically decomposed.
US07658897B2 Process and apparatus for treating flue gas from sintering plants
The invention reveals a process and an apparatus for treating flue gas from sintering plants, in which dry additive consisting at least of adsorbent and recirculated material is added by the entrained-flow process to the flue gas from a sintering plant in a flue gas duct, and the additive is then separated out of the flue gas by fabric filters and at least partially recirculated. In this context, it is provided that additive is introduced at least one location in the opposite direction to the direction of flow of the flue gas.
US07658895B2 Process for recovering base metals from spent hydroprocessing catalyst
A method for recovering metals from a spent dispersed catalyst originating from a Group VIB metal sulfide catalyst containing at least a Group VB and Group VIII metal for hydrocarbon oil hydroprocessing is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method comprises the steps of: contacting the spent dispersed catalyst with a leaching solution containing ammonia and air to dissolve the group VIB metal and the Group VIII metal into the leaching solution at sufficient temperature and pressure; forming a slurry containing at least a group VIB metal complex and at least a group VIII metal complex, ammonium sulfate and solid residue containing at least a Group VB metal complex and coke; separating and removing the solid residue containing ammonium metavanadate and coke from the pressure leach solution (PLS); precipitating from the PLS at least a portion of the Group VIB metal and at least a portion of the Group VIII metal by controlling the pH at a pre-selected pH to selectively precipitate as metal complexes the Group VIB and Group VIII metals.
US07658892B2 Pipe shaped reformer having rugged internal surface
A reformer is disclosed for supplying a reformed gas containing hydrogen to a fuel cell. The reformer comprises a heat source; a preheating portion preheated by heat from the heat source; a pipe shaped reforming reaction unit; a carbon monoxide processing unit extending from the reforming reaction unit; and a rugged portion installed on an internal surface of the pipe shaped reforming reaction unit which is heated by the heat source. By using the rugged portion and the extended pipe design, the area heated by the heat source is increased and more heat is recovered, thereby improving thermal efficiency.
US07658890B2 Perfluoride processing apparatus
A plurality of etchers such as poly-etchers 3 or the like are installed within a clean room 2. A duct 7 that is connected to all the etchers is connected to a PFC decomposition device 9, which is installed outside of the clean room 2. An exhaust gas which contains PFC as drained out of all the etchers within the clean room 2 is supplied by the duct 7 to the inner space of PFC decomposition device 9. After having heated up within the PFC decomposition device 9, the PFC is decomposed by the action of a catalyst which is filled within the PFC decomposition device 9. It is no longer required to provide a space for installation of the PFC decomposition device 9 in the clean room 2 with the semiconductor fabrication apparatus or the liquid crystal manufacturing apparatus installed therein, thus enabling size reduction or “downsizing” of the clean room. It is possible to reduce the size of a clean room in which a semiconductor fabricating apparatus or a liquid crystal manufacturing apparatus is installed.
US07658887B2 Pipette tip grid with lock mechanism
Pipette tip grids with holes for holding pipette tips and packages for the grids are provided. A pipette tip grid package comprises a grid, a base for supporting the grid, and a lock mechanism coupled to the grid and configured to externally engage with a sidewall of the base. The sidewall of the base also supports the grid. The package also can have a detachable cover for the grid, and, the lock mechanism can be external to the cover as well as the base. In some embodiments, the grids are stackable and the cover engages the topmost grid of the stack. Together, the cover, the base, and the sidewalls of the one or more stacked pipette tip grids form a protective case around pipette tips in the one or more grids.
US07658880B2 Polymeric stent polishing method and apparatus
A method and apparatus for simultaneously polishing the inner and outer surfaces of an unpolished polymeric stent using a heat process. The unpolished stent can be mounted, for example, on a “spiral-mandrel,” a tubular helical structure with gaps in between a series of coils of the structure. Heat from a heat source can then applied to the spiral-mandrel at a range between the glass transition temperature and melting temperature of the polymer of the stent.